bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reexamination of hemoglobin adjustments to define anemia: altitude and smoking
Authors: Sharma Andrea J. , Addo O. Yaw , Mei Zuguo , Suchdev Parminder S.
Published: June 2019

The correct interpretation of hemoglobin (Hb) to identify anemia requires adjusting for altitude and smoking. Current adjustments were derived using data collected before 1985, from low‐income preschool‐aged children (PSC) in the United States and indigenous men in Peru for altitude, and from White women of reproductive age (WRA) in the United States for smoking. Given the oldness and limited representativeness of these data, we reexamined associations between Hb and altitude and/or smoking using 13 population‐based surveys and 1 cohort study each conducted after 2000. All WHO regions except South‐East Asia were represented. The dataset included 68,193 observations among PSC (6−59 months) and nonpregnant WRA (15−49 years) with data on Hb and altitude (−28 to 4000 m), and 19,826 observations among WRA with data on Hb and smoking (status or daily cigarette quantity). Generalized linear models were used to assess the robustness of associations under varying conditions, including controlling for inflammation‐corrected iron and vitamin A deficiency. Our study confirms that Hb should be adjusted for altitude and/or smoking; these adjustments are additive. However, recommendations for Hb adjustment likely need updating. Notably, current recommendations may underadjust Hb for light smokers and for those residing at lower altitudes and overadjust Hb for those residing at higher altitudes.
The influence of bariatric surgery on oral drug bioavailability in patients with obesity: A systematic review
Authors: Angeles Philip Carlo , Robertsen Ida , Seeberg Lars Thomas , Krogstad Veronica , Skattebu Julie , Sandbu Rune , Åsberg Anders , Hjelmesæth Jøran
Published: June 2019

Anatomical changes in the gastrointestinal tract and subsequent weight loss may influence drug disposition and thus drug dosing following bariatric surgery. This review systematically examines the effects of bariatric surgery on drug pharmacokinetics, focusing especially on the mechanisms involved in restricting oral bioavailability. Studies with a longitudinal before‐after design investigating the pharmacokinetics of at least one drug were reviewed. The need for dose adjustment following bariatric surgery was examined, as well as the potential for extrapolation to other drugs subjected to coinciding pharmacokinetic mechanisms. A total of 22 original articles and 32 different drugs were assessed. The majority of available data is based on Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) (18 of 22 studies), and hence, the overall interpretation is more or less limited to RYGBP. In the case of the majority of studied drugs, an increased absorption rate was observed early after RYGBP. The effect on systemic exposure allows for a low degree of extrapolation, including between drugs subjected to the same major metabolic and transporter pathways. On the basis of current understanding, predicting the pharmacokinetic change for a specific drug following RYGBP is challenging. Close monitoring of each individual drug is therefore recommended in the early postsurgical phase. Future studies should focus on the long‐term effects of bariatric surgery on drug disposition, and they should also aim to disentangle the effects of the surgery itself and the subsequent weight loss.
Total‐evidence approach reveals an extinct lineage of Paederinae rove beetles from Cretaceous Burmese amber
Authors: Żyła Dagmara , Yamamoto Shûhei , Jenkins Shaw Josh
Published: June 2019

The fossil record contains vital information about the evolution of lineages and is a source of data that cannot be reconciled other than by the direct observation of morphologies. Total‐evidence phylogenetic reconstruction is being increasingly used to assess the position of extinct taxa by incorporating morphological data from extinct and extant taxa together with molecular data from extant taxa in a united framework. Here we apply the method to two Cretaceous Burmese amber inclusions belonging to the rove beetle subfamily Paederinae. To perform the total evidence analysis, we constructed the first morphological matrix and the most comprehensive molecular dataset for the subfamily. Our analysis reveals an extinct lineage of Paederinae rove beetles with a suite of unique morphological characters, resulting in the description of a new genus: Diminudon gen. nov. and two new species: D. schomannae sp. nov. and D. kachinensis sp. nov. Simultaneously our analyses provide new insights into the evolution and classification of the entire subfamily. We also discuss the unusually small size of the newly described Paederinae, which may represent an additional case for miniaturization in the Cretaceous.
The Acute Effect of Skin Preheating on Capsaicin‐Induced Central Sensitization in Humans
Authors: Linde Lukas D. , Srbely John Z.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Topical capsaicin is commonly employed to experimentally induce central sensitization (CS) in humans. While previous studies have investigated the effect of skin preheating on the sensitizing effect of capsaicin, no studies have compared the synergistic effect of skin preheating on the magnitude of sensitization via topical capsaicin within the first 30 minutes of application. We tested the hypothesis that skin preheating potentiates the sensitizing effect of topical capsaicin by evoking a larger region of secondary hyperalgesia vs. topical capsaicin alone.

Methods

Twenty young, healthy subjects each received topical capsaicin (Zostrix HP 0.075%) only (CAP), topical capsaicin with preheating (CAP + HEAT), and topical nonsensitizing placebo cream (CON) in a crossover design. Capsaicin and placebo creams were applied to a 50 cm2 area of the dorsal forearm. The CAP + HEAT session also included a 10‐minute preheating session. Regions of secondary hyperalgesia were assessed using mechanical brush allodynia testing, and skin temperature was assessed via infrared thermography. Outcomes were normalized to baseline and compared at 10, 20, and 30 minutes after cream application.

Results

The CAP + HEAT session led to a significantly larger area of secondary hyperalgesia compared to the CAP session as measured by brush allodynia (CON: 0 ± 0 cm; CAP: 2.08 ± 0.45 cm; CAP + HEAT: 3.70 ± 0.46 cm; P < 0.05) and skin temperature (CON: −2.92% ± 0.03%; CAP: −0.63% ± 0.09%; CAP + HEAT: 2.50% ± 0.11%; ( of baseline) P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Preheating amplifies the sensitizing effect of topical capsaicin within 30 minutes of application. The heat–capsaicin technique may be employed to assess differing magnitudes of CS induction and enables future studies investigating the development and progression of CS in humans.
Multifocal congenital hemangioma: Expanding the pathogenesis of “neonatal hemangiomatosis”
Authors: Blumenthal Shoshana , Stefanko Nicole , Cossio Maria‐Laura , Coulombe Jerôme , McCuaig Catherine , Dubois Josee , North Paula , Drolet Beth
Published: June 2019

Congenital hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors, categorized by their postnatal behavior as rapidly involuting, non‐involuting, or partially involuting. They are typically solitary, with a predilection for the head or limbs near a joint. We present two infants with small, multifocal congenital nonprogressive hemangiomas of the skin, one associated with hepatic and intracranial lesions, and another with an in utero intracranial hemorrhage and hydrocephalus. These cases further extend the differential diagnosis of congenital multifocal vascular lesions or “hemangiomatosis.”
Muscle herniation as a cause of superficial lumps on the legs of a healthy teenager
Authors: Chen Chen (Amy) , Phelps Andrew , Frieden Ilona J.
Published: June 2019

Muscular hernias, focal protrusions of muscle through fascial weaknesses, are uncommon in pediatric patients. When diagnosed, they are usually found on the legs from protrusions of tibialis anterior muscle in young male athletes. Here, we present a case of a healthy 16‐year‐old boy who developed asymptomatic nodules on the bilateral feet and lateral lower legs, which were confirmed by ultrasound to be focal muscle herniations. Our case highlights a rare example of bilateral muscle herniation in a pediatric patient and the utility of ultrasound as a diagnostic modality for this uncommon condition.
Complementary and alternative therapy for pediatric acne: A review of botanical extracts, dietary interventions, and oral supplements
Authors: Gurnee Emily A. , Kamath Sonia , Kruse Lacey
Published: June 2019

Many supplements and products containing botanical extracts are marketed to patients for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Additionally, increasing attention has been paid to the role of diet in acne vulgaris. Studies on this topic including pediatric patients are limited, with variable efficacy data. Despite these limitations, knowledge of alternative therapies in pediatric acne vulgaris is often expected from pediatric dermatologists. Here we review available data on the efficacy of complementary and alternative medicines for treatment of acne in pediatric patients, focusing on topical, oral, and dietary modifications.
Over and over again: Changes in frontal EEG asymmetry across a boring task
Authors: Perone Sammy , Weybright Elizabeth H. , Anderson Alana J.
Published: June 2019

Boredom is an aversive emotional state. People high in trait boredom are less able to effectively cope with and resolve boredom than people low in trait boredom. Trait boredom is characterized by proneness and susceptibility, which are associated with avoidance and approach behavioral dispositions, respectively. Baseline frontal EEG asymmetry (FEA) has been treated as a trait level neural correlate of approach and avoidance motivational styles. Online processes by which people effectively cope with and resolve state boredom may involve an approach motivation to create stimulation. Evidence indicates that FEA reflects an active approach or avoidance motivation. This study tested the prediction that proneness and susceptibility would be related to relative less and greater left frontal activity during baseline, respectively, and lower levels of trait boredom would be associated with a leftward shift frontal activity as situationally induced boredom ensued. Young adults (N = 54) completed trait boredom scales, baseline EEG, and a boring task. Results showed that people low in trait boredom exhibited a leftward shift in frontal activity over the course of the boring task. No relations between trait boredom and baseline FEA were observed. The results are consistent with the possibility that approach motivation is involved in coping with and resolving boredom. FEA has been characterized at trait and state levels. Our results provide a new view of FEA as a signature of dynamic online emotion regulatory processes. The implications from linking boredom and FEA for understanding the mechanisms of boredom resolution and meaning of FEA are discussed.
Method agreement between three different chambers for comparative boar semen computer‐assisted sperm analysis
Authors: Basioura Athina , Tsousis Georgios , Boscos Constantin , Lymberopoulos Aristotelis , Tsakmakidis Ioannis
Published: June 2019

The computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA) has become a standard laboratory tool. Although it contributes a lot to the objective sperm motility assessment, its measurements may be affected by many factors. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of chamber on boar semen CASA results. Totally, 100 extended (30 × 106 sperm/ml) boar semen samples were analysed by CASA. Each sample was evaluated using Makler, Leja 4 chamber 20 μm and conventional glass slide/coverslip chambers (MC, LC and GSC, respectively). The differences in values between MC and LC and between MC and GSC were significantly positive (higher values for MC compared with LC and GSC) for total motility, progressive, rapid movement, VCL, VSL, VAP, STR and hyperactive, thus indicating a systematic effect. Between LC and GSC, the differences in many parameters (non‐progressive, progressive, slow, LIN, STR, hyperactive) were evenly distributed around zero, while in all other parameters the differences were significantly positive (higher values for LC compared with GSC), except for medium movement. Based on the estimated intraclass correlation coefficients, the method agreement between MC and LC and between LC and GSC was overall moderate to good, depending on the parameter; nonetheless, it was poor between MC and GSC. The limits of agreement between methods can vary considerably depending on the parameter and should be considered when comparisons between CASA measurements of different andrology laboratories or studies have to be performed.
Woodland restoration on agricultural land: long‐term impacts on soil quality
Authors: Ashwood Frank , Watts Kevin , Park Kirsty , Fuentes‐Montemayor Elisa , Benham Sue , Vanguelova Elena I.
Published: June 2019

Woodland restoration is underway globally to counter the negative soil quality and ecological impacts of agricultural expansion and woodland fragmentation, and restore or enhance biodiversity, ecosystem functions and services. However, we lack information about the long‐term effects of woodland restoration on agricultural soils, particularly at temporal scales meaningful to woodland and soil development. This study utilized soil and earthworm sampling across a chronosequence of sites transitioning from “agricultural land” to “secondary woodland” (50–110 years) and “ancient woodland” (>400 years), with the goal of quantifying the effects of woodland restoration on agricultural land, on key soil quality parameters (soil bulk density, pH, carbon and nitrogen stocks, and earthworm abundance, biomass, species richness and diversity). Broad‐leaved woodland restoration led to significantly greater soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks compared to arable land, and young (50–60 years) secondary woodland increased earthworm species and functional diversity compared to both arable and pasture agricultural land. SOC stocks in secondary broad‐leaved woodlands (50–110 years) were comparable to those found in long‐term ancient woodlands (>400 years). Our findings show that broad‐leaved woodland restoration of agricultural land can lead to meaningful soil ecological improvement and gains in SOC within 50–110 years, and provide intel on how restoration activities may be best targeted to maximize soil quality and functions.
An example of de‐Tai‐isation? Longue durée ethnic change in a mountainous area of southern China
Authors: Churchman Catherine
Published: June 2019

Inspired by Grant Evans’ work Tai‐ization: Ethnic Change in Northern Indo‐China, this article explores aspects of historical ethnic change in the Yunkai and Yunwu Mountain Ranges, a small upland region intersected by the boundary of Guangdong and Guangxi provinces in southern China over the period 600–1700 C.E. The discussion begins with some of the early linguistic evidence for populations of Tai speakers in the region and what is known of their political and cultural systems, then moves on to consider how Chinese military conquests of the eighth century coupled with the migration of Sinitic and Mien peoples from the eleventh century onwards altered the ethnic composition and political landscape of the region. This is followed by an examination of different exonyms used in Chinese texts for populations of southern China from the fifteenth century onwards and how these might have related to linguistic groupings and identities on the ground, demonstrating that historical usage of Chinese exonyms now connected with Tai or Mien speakers is not always a reliable indicator of a corresponding presence of historical Tai or Mien‐speaking populations. Further research drawing on a number of disciplines is required on a localised level in order to determine when Tai and Mien languages were abandoned in the region and how the inhabitants of the area shifted from the status of named Others to ordinary Chinese subjects.
Association between computed tomographic thoracic injury scores and blood gas and acid–base balance in dogs with blunt thoracic trauma
Authors: Kirberger Robert M. , Leisewitz Andrew L. , Rautenbach Yolandi , Lim Chee Kin , Stander Nerissa , Cassel Nicky , Arnot Luke , deClercq Marizelle , Burchell Richard
Published: June 2019

Objective

To determine the association between thoracic injuries evaluated by computed tomography (CT) and arterial blood gas and acid–base status in dogs with blunt thoracic trauma caused by motor vehicle accidents.

Design

Prospective observational clinical study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Thirty‐one client owned traumatized dogs and 15 healthy dogs.

Procedures

All trauma group dogs underwent a CT scan and simultaneous arterial blood gas analysis within 24 hours, but not before 4 hours, after the traumatic incident within a 45‐month enrollment period.

Measurements and Main Results

Thorax injuries were classified as pulmonary, pleural space, or rib cage and each of these components was scored for severity using a CT composite pulmonary, pleural, and rib score. The trauma group arterial blood gas and acid–base status were evaluated for statistical difference from the control group. The pulmonary–arterial oxygen pressure was significantly lower in the trauma group compared to the control group that was supported by significant differences in the calculated variables of arterial blood oxygenation as well. There was also a significant correlation between the composite lung score and pleural score and the variables of arterial oxygen status. The pulmonary–arterial carbon dioxide pressure was not significantly different to any of the thoracic injury variables indicating normal alveolar ventilation. Acid–base imbalances were generally mild, insignificant, and variable.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Blunt thoracic trauma causes significant pulmonary and pleural injury and the blood oxygen economy is significantly affected by this. The functional measures of arterial blood oxygenation were well correlated with thoracic CT pathology. Alveolar ventilation was mostly spared but a clinically significant ventilation perfusion mismatch was present.
Key Factors in Customer Relationship Management Strategy Success in the Local Government Authorities
Authors: Chiguvi Douglas , Tadu Ruramayi , Ngwenya Moreblessing
Published: June 2019

The aim of the study was to identify critical success factors in customer relationship management strategy success in the local government authorities in Zimbabwe. A thorough abridgment of the literature was conducted, mainly to understand the nature and structure of local government authorities in Zimbabwe as well as to identify critical success factors in CRM strategy success. A Meta-analysis methodology was employed and explanatory research approach was adopted by means of a survey strategy. 197 questionnaires have been collected from twenty one local government authorities in Zimbabwe. The findings of the study revealed that all of the ten critical success factors are significant and positively linked to CRM strategy success. Furthermore, the statistical tests show that success and failure of CRM strategy success are highly dependent on four major critical success factors including Implementation Approach, Change Management, Metrics and Implementation Strategy. However, process design and Buy-in Approach and Adoption have low significance impact in CRM strategy success in local government authorities in Zimbabwe. The results of the data analysis led to the creation of a framework which outlines the critical success factors in CRM strategy success in local government authorities in Zimbabwe and the CRM implementation Index which need to be followed before implementing the CRM strategy. This study has clearly indicated that customer relationship management forms a powerful strategy that local government authorities should apply to manage long-term relationships with their key stakeholders.
An In Silico Model for the Prediction of Changes in Mineral Density in Cortical Bone Remodeling
Authors: Mattazio Rafael R. , Noritomi Pedro Y. , Silveira Zilda C.
Published: June 2019

An in silico model for the estimation of volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) changes at a cortical bone site subjected to mechanobiological bone remodeling is proposed in this manuscript. Mechanisms of cell differentiation, receptor–ligand binding, mechanical signaling, and resorption or deposition of bone matrix were considered, therefore providing a comprehensive description of mechanobiological bone remodeling in the bone microenvironment and enabling the analysis of temporal evolution of disease or therapy scenarios. The proposed model is composed by five modules, namely, bone cells populations, mechanobiology, volume fractions and porosity, mineral density, and structural stiffness. The model is an extension of other models found in the literature because equations for the obtaining of cortical vBMD and the binding of parathyroid hormone (PTH) to parathyroid hormone 1 receptor are included. The proposed model showed a satisfactory agreement with the solutions of other in silico models found in the literature. Simulations of walking and running exercise routines were performed for the evaluation of model capability regarding the control of the numerical error and prediction of vBMD. The computational method used to solve the case study controlled the relative numerical error by less than 1 × 10−7 for approximately 1.7 × 106 time steps. The predicted values correlate with the concept of increasing BMD by vigorous physical activity; however, they contrast with the specific effect of physical activities on cortical vBMD.
Analysis of the Primary and Secondary Resonances of Viscoelastic Beams Made of Zener Material
Authors: Wielentejczyk Przemysław , Lewandowski Roman
Published: June 2019

The problem of geometrically nonlinear, steady-state vibrations of beams made of viscoelastic (VE) materials is considered in this paper. The Euler–Bernoulli and the von Kármán theories are used to describe the dynamic behavior of beams. The VE material of the beams is modeled using the Zener model. Two harmonics are present in the assumed steady-state solution of the problem at hand, which enables an analysis of both the primary and secondary resonances. The virtual work equation and the harmonic balance method are used to derive the amplitude equations in the explicit form. The response curves are determined using the continuation method and treating the frequency of excitation as the main parameter. The results of several examples, which illustrate the dynamic behavior of the considered beams, are presented and discussed.
Numerical Simulation of the Effect of Process Parameters on Cooling Rate and Secondary Dendrite Arm Spacing in High-Speed Twin Roll Strip Casting of Al–15 wt % Cu Alloy
Authors: Patil Yuvaraj Ganpati , Shukla Ajay Kumar
Published: June 2019

Twin roll casting is a process used to produce thin strips of metals by continuously pouring melt on to rotating rolls. In order to make the process more productive and economical, high roll speed is recommended. The numerical simulation of high-speed twin roll casting is performed by analyzing fluid flow, heat transfer, and solidification behavior of Al–Cu hypo-eutectic alloy. The flow field, temperature, liquid fraction distribution, and cooling rate are analyzed by solving governing transport equations of continuity, momentum, energy, and turbulence. The low-Re Turbulence model is used to capture turbulence effects in the process and enthalpy-porosity technique used to account for the rise in viscosity due to phase change. The effect of melt pool height and roll velocity on average cooling rate along the strip surface is investigated. It is found that the increase in melt pool height and roll speed increases the average cooling rate along strip surface due to rise in heat transfer up to certain roll velocity but beyond that process fails due to breakout. The average cooling rate of process affects the microstructure and properties of strips. It is found that higher cooling rates result in a decrement of secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS) of 1 mm thin strip along strip surface results in the fine and homogeneous microstructure.
Basic Theory of Simplified Dynamic Model for Spherical Tank Considering Swinging Effect
Authors: Lü Yuan , Sun Jiangang , Sun Zongguang , Cui Lifu , Wang Zhen
Published: June 2019

Consider the swinging effect of spherical tank, the theory of velocity potential is adopted, and a reasonable potential function is derived according to the boundary conditions. Further, the dynamic fluid pressure, the wave height of the liquid, the shear force and the overturning moment at the bottom of the spherical tank is calculated, and a simplified dynamic model of spherical tank considering liquid sloshing and swinging effect was constructed. The seismic response was studied and compared with the results without considering the swing effect. The results show that: for Ι, II site conditions, base shear force and overturning moment of considering the swing effect is slightly smaller than when nonconsidering and the difference rate between the two is very small. III–IV site conditions, each condition value of considering the swing effect is larger than when nonconsidering and the difference rate between the two is relatively large. Aseismic design of spherical tank and the influence of swing effect should be considered if the site condition is III and IV, and if site I and II, they can be ignored.
Masculine toughness and the categorical perception of onset sibilant clusters
Authors: Phillips Jacob B. , Resnick Paige
Published: June 2019

Evidence from production studies demonstrate that /s/-retraction, a sound change in American English where /s/ approaches [ʃ], is progressing in apparent time and highly context-dependent, occurring overwhelmingly in /str/ clusters. This study reports findings from a phoneme categorization task, suggesting that listeners perceive sibilants in /str/ clusters less categorically than in /spr/ and /skr/ clusters and are becoming less categorical in apparent time for all clusters. Indicators of masculine toughness, including the model talker's voice and face and the listener's endorsement of masculine stereotypes, additionally contribute to a less categorical perception of sibilants in these environments.
Neighborhood-conditioned phonetic enhancement of an allophonic vowel split
Authors: Zellou Georgia , Scarborough Rebecca
Published: June 2019

Vowels are enhanced via vowel-space expansion in perceptually difficult contexts, including in words subject to greater lexical competition. Yet, vowel hyperarticulation often covaries with other acoustic adjustments, such as increased nasal coarticulation, suggesting that the goals of phonetic enhancement are not strictly to produce canonical phoneme realizations. This study explores phonetic enhancement by examining how speakers realize an allophonic vowel split in lexically challenging conditions. Specifically, in US English, /æ/ is raising before nasal codas, such that pre-nasal and pre-oral /æ/ are moving apart. Speakers produced monosyllabic words varying in phonological neighborhood density (ND), a measure of lexical difficulty, with CæN or CæC structure to a real listener interlocutor in an interactive task. Acoustic analyses reveal that speakers enhance pre-oral /æ/ by lowering it in Hi ND words; meanwhile, pre-nasal /æ/ Hi ND words are produced with greater degrees of nasalization and increased diphthongization. These patterns indicate that ND-conditioned phonetic enhancement is realized in targeted ways for distinct allophones of /æ/. Results support views of hyperarticulation in which the goal is to make words, that is, segments in their contexts, as distinct as possible.
GroEL Protein (Heat Shock Protein 60) of Mycoplasma gallisepticum Induces Apoptosis in Host Cells by Interacting with Annexin A2
Authors: Yu Ying , Zhang Lin , Chen Ying , Li Yuan , Wang Zhenzhong , Li Ganwu , Wang Gang , Xin Jiuqing
Published: June 2019

Mycoplasma gallisepticum
is an avian respiratory and reproductive tract pathogen that has a significant economic impact on the poultry industry worldwide. Although membrane proteins of
Mycoplasma
spp. are thought to play crucial roles in host interactions, very few have had their biochemical function defined. In this study, we found that the GroEL protein (heat shock protein 60) of
Mycoplasma gallisepticum
could induce apoptosis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and the underlying molecular mechanism was further determined.
Interaction between Antibiotic Resistance, Resistance Genes, and Treatment Response for Urinary Tract Infections in Primary Care
Authors: Ho Hanley J. , Tan Mei Xuan , Chen Mark I. , Tan Thean Yen , Koo Seok Hwee , Koong Agnes Y. L. , Ng Lok Pui , Hu Pei Lin , Tan Kee Tung , Moey Peter K. S. , Koh Eileen Y. L. , Wong Chia Siong , Lye David C. , Tan Ngiap Chuan
Published: June 2019

Given increasing antimicrobial resistance, we aimed to determine antibiotic susceptibility and presence of resistance genes in uropathogens in primary care, factors associated with resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics, and effect of treatment on early symptom resolution. We conducted a prospective study of primary care patients with urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms and culture-confirmed UTI in Singapore from 2015 to 2016.
Serotype and Genotype (Multilocus Sequence Type) of Streptococcus suis Isolates from the United States Serve as Predictors of Pathotype
Authors: Estrada April A. , Gottschalk Marcelo , Rossow Stephanie , Rendahl Aaron , Gebhart Connie , Marthaler Douglas G.
Published: June 2019

Streptococcus suisis a significant cause of mortality in piglets and growing pigs worldwide. The species contains pathogenic and commensal strains, with pathogenic strains causing meningitis, arthritis, endocarditis, polyserositis, and septicemia. Serotyping and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) are primary methods to differentiate strains, but the information is limited for strains found in the United States.
Dual Recognition of Sialic Acid and αGal Epitopes by the VP8* Domains of the Bovine Rotavirus G6P[5] WC3 and of Its Mono-reassortant G4P[5] RotaTeq Vaccine Strains
Authors: Alfajaro Mia Madel , Kim Ji-Yun , Barbé Laure , Cho Eun-Hyo , Park Jun-Gyu , Soliman Mahmoud , Baek Yeong-Bin , Kang Mun-Il , Kim Soo Hyun , Kim Geun-Joong , Park Sang-Ik , Pendu Jacques Le , Cho Kyoung-Oh
Published: June 2019

Group A rotaviruses initiate infection through the binding of the VP8* domain of the VP4 protein to sialic acids (SAs) or histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs). Although the bovine G6P[5] WC3 strain is an important animal pathogen and is used as the backbone in the bovine-human reassortant RotaTeq vaccine, the receptor(s) for their P[5] VP8* domain has remained elusive. Using a variety of approaches, we demonstrated that the WC3 and bovine-human mono-reassortant G4P[5] vaccine strains recognize both α2,6-linked SA and αGal HBGA as ligands. Neither ligand is expressed on human small intestinal epithelial cells, explaining the absence of natural human infection by P[5]-bearing strains. However, we observed that the P[5]-bearing WC3 and G4P[5] RotaTeq vaccine strains could still infect human intestinal epithelial cells. Thus, the four P[5] RotaTeq vaccine strains potentially binding to additional alternative receptors may be efficient and effective in providing protection against severe rotavirus disease in human.
The Structure of an Injectisome Export Gate Demonstrates Conservation of Architecture in the Core Export Gate between Flagellar and Virulence Type III Secretion Systems
Authors: Johnson Steven , Kuhlen Lucas , Deme Justin C. , Abrusci Patrizia , Lea Susan M.
Published: June 2019

Although predicted on the basis of sequence conservation, the work presented here formally demonstrates that all classes of type III secretion systems, flagellar or virulence, share the same architecture at the level of the core structures. This absolute conservation of the unusual extramembrane structure of the core export gate complex now allows work to move to focusing on both mechanistic studies of type III but also on fundamental studies of how such a complex is assembled.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Streptococcus pyogenes Colonizing the Vaginal Mucosa Identifies
hupY
, an MtsR-Regulated Adhesin Involved in Heme Utilization
Authors: Cook Laura C. C. , Chatterjee Nilanjana , Li Yan , Andrade Jorge , Federle Michael J. , Eichenbaum Zehava
Published: June 2019

Colonization of the host requires the ability to adapt to an environment that is often low in essential nutrients such as iron. Here we present data showing that the transcriptome of the important human pathogen
Streptococcus pyogenes
shows extensive remodeling during
in vivo
growth, resulting in, among many other differentially expressed genes and pathways, a significant increase in genes involved in acquiring iron from host heme. Data show that HupY, previously characterized as an adhesin in both
S. pyogenes
and the related pathogen
Streptococcus agalactiae
, binds heme and affects intracellular iron concentrations. HupY, a protein with no known heme binding domains, represents a novel heme binding protein playing an important role in bacterial iron homeostasis as well as vaginal colonization.
Genomewide Assessment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Conditionally Essential Metabolic Pathways
Authors: Minato Yusuke , Gohl Daryl M. , Thiede Joshua M. , Chacón Jeremy M. , Harcombe William R. , Maruyama Fumito , Baughn Anthony D.
Published: June 2019

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
causes 10 million cases of tuberculosis (TB), resulting in over 1 million deaths each year. TB therapy is challenging because it requires a minimum of 6 months of treatment with multiple drugs. Protracted treatment times and the emergent spread of drug-resistant
M. tuberculosis
necessitate the identification of novel targets for drug discovery to curb this global health threat. Essential functions, defined as those indispensable for growth and/or survival, are potential targets for new antimicrobial drugs. In this study, we aimed to define gene essentialities of
M. tuberculosis
on a genomewide scale to comprehensively identify potential targets for drug discovery. We utilized a combination of experimental (functional genomics) and
in silico
approaches (comparative genomics and flux balance analysis). Our functional genomics approach identified sets of genes whose essentiality was affected by nutrient availability. Comparative genomics revealed that not all essential genes were fully conserved within the
M. tuberculosis
complex. Comparing sets of essential genes identified by functional genomics to those predicted by flux balance analysis highlighted gaps in current knowledge regarding
M. tuberculosis
metabolic capabilities. Thus, our study identifies numerous potential antitubercular drug targets and provides a comprehensive picture of the complexity of
M. tuberculosis
essential cellular functions.
Multipartner Symbiosis across Biological Domains: Looking at the Eukaryotic Associations from a Microbial Perspective
Authors: Turon Marta , Uriz Maria J. , Martin Daniel
Published: June 2019

The symbiotic lifestyle represents a fundamental cryptic contribution to the diversity of marine ecosystems. Sponges are ideal targets to improve understanding the symbiotic relationships from evolutionary and ecological points of view, because they are the most ancient metazoans on earth, are ubiquitous in the marine benthos, and establish complex symbiosis with both prokaryotes and animals, which in turn also harbor their own bacterial communities. Here, we study the microbiomes of sponge-polychaete associations and confirm that polychaetes feed on their host sponges. The study worms select and enrich part of the sponge microbiome to shape their own species-specific bacterial communities. Moreover, worm microbiome diversity runs parallel to that of its food host sponge. Considering our results on symbiotic polychaetes and previous studies on fishes and mammals, diet appears to be an important source of bacteria for animals to shape their species-specific microbiomes.
Quantifying and Understanding Well-to-Well Contamination in Microbiome Research
Authors: Minich Jeremiah J. , Sanders Jon G. , Amir Amnon , Humphrey Greg , Gilbert Jack A. , Knight Rob
Published: June 2019

Microbiome research has uncovered magnificent biological and chemical stories across nearly all areas of life science, at times creating controversy when findings reveal fantastic descriptions of microbes living and even thriving in what were once thought to be sterile environments. Scientists have refuted many of these claims because of contamination, which has led to robust requirements, including the use of controls, for validating accurate portrayals of microbial communities. In this study, we describe a previously undocumented form of contamination, well-to-well contamination, and show that this sort of contamination primarily occurs during DNA extraction rather than PCR, is highest with plate-based methods compared to single-tube extraction, and occurs at a higher frequency in low-biomass samples. This finding has profound importance in the field, as many current techniques to “decontaminate” a data set simply rely on an assumption that microbial reads found in blanks are contaminants from “outside,” namely, the reagents or consumables.
Measuring the coverage of nutrition interventions along the continuum of care: time to act at scale
Authors: Gillespie Stuart , Menon Purnima , Heidkamp Rebecca , Piwoz Ellen , Rawat Rahul , Munos Melinda , Black Robert , Hayashi Chika , Kumar Saha Kuntal , Requejo Jennifer
Published: June 2019

The global community is committed to addressing malnutrition. And yet, coverage data for high-impact interventions along the continuum of care remain scarce due to several measurement and data collection challenges. In this analysis paper, we identify 24 nutrition interventions that should be tracked by all countries, and determine if their coverage is currently measured by major household nutrition and health surveys. We then present three case studies, using published literature and empirical data from large-scale initiatives, to illustrate the kind of data collection innovations that are feasible. We find that data are not routinely collected in a standardised way across countries for most of the core set of interventions. Case studies—of growth monitoring and screening for acute malnutrition, infant and young child feeding counselling, and nutrition monitoring in India—highlight both challenges and potential solutions. Advancing the nutrition intervention coverage measurement agenda is essential for sustained progress in driving down rates of malnutrition. It will require (1) global consensus on a core set of validated coverage indicators on proven, high-impact nutrition-specific interventions; (2) the inclusion of coverage measurement and indicator guidance in WHO intervention recommendations; (3) the incorporation of these indicators into data collection mechanisms and relevant intervention delivery platforms; and (4) an agenda for continuous measurement improvement.
Analyses of inequalities in RMNCH: rising to the challenge of the SDGs
Authors: Victora Cesar , Boerma Ties , Requejo Jennifer , Mesenburg Marilia Arndt , Joseph Gary , Costa Janaína Calu , Vidaletti Luis Paulo , Ferreira Leonardo Zanini , Hosseinpoor Ahmad Reza , Barros Aluisio J D
Published: June 2019

The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17.18 recommends efforts to increase the availability of data disaggregated by income, gender, age, race, ethnicity, migratory status, disability and geographic location in developing countries. Surveys will continue to be the leading data source for disaggregated data for most dimensions of inequality. We discuss potential advances in the disaggregation of data from national surveys, with a focus on the coverage of reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health indicators (RMNCH). Even though the Millennium Development Goals were focused on national-level progress, monitoring initiatives such as Countdown to 2015 reported on progress in RMNCH coverage according to wealth quintiles, sex of the child, women’s education and age, urban/rural residence and subnational geographic regions. We describe how the granularity of equity analyses may be increased by including additional stratification variables such as wealth deciles, estimated absolute income, ethnicity, migratory status and disability. We also provide examples of analyses of intersectionality between wealth and urban/rural residence (also known as double stratification), sex of the child and age of the woman. Based on these examples, we describe the advantages and limitations of stratified analyses of survey data, including sample size issues and lack of information on the necessary variables in some surveys. We conclude by recommending that, whenever possible, stratified analyses should go beyond the traditional breakdowns by wealth quintiles, sex and residence, to also incorporate the wider dimensions of inequality. Greater granularity of equity analyses will contribute to identify subgroups of women and children who are being left behind and monitor the impact of efforts to reduce inequalities in order to achieve the health SDGs.
Advances in the measurement of coverage for RMNCH and nutrition: from contact to effective coverage
Authors: Amouzou Agbessi , Leslie Hannah Hogan , Ram Malathi , Fox Monica , Jiwani Safia S , Requejo Jennifer , Marchant Tanya , Munos Melinda Kay , Vaz Lara M E , Weiss William , Hayashi Chika , Boerma Ties
Published: June 2019

Current methods for measuring intervention coverage for reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition (RMNCH+N) do not adequately capture the quality of services delivered. Without information on the quality of care, it is difficult to assess whether services provided will result in expected health improvements. We propose a six-step coverage framework, starting from a target population to (1) service contact, (2) likelihood of services, (3) crude coverage, (4) quality-adjusted coverage, (5) user-adherence-adjusted coverage and (6) outcome-adjusted coverage. We support our framework with a comprehensive review of published literature on effective coverage for RMNCH+N interventions since 2000. We screened 8103 articles and selected 36 from which we summarised current methods for measuring effective coverage and computed the gaps between ‘crude’ coverage measures and quality-adjusted measures. Our review showed considerable variability in data sources, indicator definitions and analytical approaches for effective coverage measurement. Large gaps between crude coverage and quality-adjusted coverage levels were evident, ranging from an average of 10 to 38 percentage points across the RMNCH+N interventions assessed. We define effective coverage as the proportion of individuals experiencing health gains from a service among those who need the service, and distinguish this from other indicators along a coverage cascade that make quality adjustments. We propose a systematic approach for analysis along six steps in the cascade. Research to date shows substantial drops in effective delivery of care across these steps, but variation in methods limits comparability of the results. Advancement in coverage measurement will require standardisation of effective coverage terminology and improvements in data collection and methodological approaches.
Early childhood development: an imperative for action and measurement at scale
Authors: Richter Linda , Black Maureen , Britto Pia , Daelmans Bernadette , Desmond Chris , Devercelli Amanda , Dua Tarun , Fink Günther , Heymann Jody , Lombardi Joan , Lu Chunling , Naicker Sara , Vargas-Barón Emily
Published: June 2019

Experiences during early childhood shape biological and psychological structures and functions in ways that affect health, well-being and productivity throughout the life course. The science of early childhood and its long-term consequences have generated political momentum to improve early childhood development and elevated action to country, regional and global levels. These advances have made it urgent that a framework, measurement tools and indicators to monitor progress globally and in countries are developed and sustained. We review progress in three areas of measurement contributing to these goals: the development of an index to allow country comparisons of young children’s development that can easily be incorporated into ongoing national surveys; improvements in population-level assessments of young children at risk of poor early development; and the production of country profiles of determinants, drivers and coverage for early childhood development and services using currently available data in 91 countries. While advances in these three areas are encouraging, more investment is needed to standardise measurement tools, regularly collect country data at the population level, and improve country capacity to collect, interpret and use data relevant to monitoring progress in early childhood development.
Lenses and levels: the why, what and how of measuring health system drivers of women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health with a governance focus
Authors: George Asha , LeFevre Amnesty Elizabeth , Jacobs Tanya , Kinney Mary , Buse Kent , Chopra Mickey , Daelmans Bernadette , Haakenstad Annie , Huicho Luis , Khosla Rajat , Rasanathan Kumanan , Sanders David , Singh Neha S , Tiffin Nicki , Ved Rajani , Zaidi Shehla Abbas , Schneider Helen
Published: June 2019

Health systems are critical for health outcomes as they underpin intervention coverage and quality, promote users’ rights and intervene on the social determinants of health. Governance is essential for health system endeavours as it mobilises and coordinates a multiplicity of actors and interests to realise common goals. The inherently social, political and contextualised nature of governance, and health systems more broadly, has implications for measurement, including how the health of women, children and adolescents health is viewed and assessed, and for whom. Three common lenses, each with their own views of power dynamics in policy and programme implementation, include a service delivery lens aimed at scaling effective interventions, a societal lens oriented to empowering people with rights to effect change and a systems lens concerned with creating enabling environments for adaptive learning. We illustrate the implications of each lens for thewhy,whatandhowof measuring health system drivers across micro, meso and macro health systems levels, through three examples (digital health, maternal and perinatal death surveillance and review, and multisectoral action for adolescent health). Appreciating these underpinnings of measuring health systems and governance drivers of the health of women, children and adolescents is essential for a holistic learning and action agenda that engages a wider range of stakeholders, which includes, but also goes beyond, indicator-based measurement. Without a broadening of approaches to measurement and the types of research partnerships involved, continued investments in the health of women, children and adolescents will fall short.