bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renewable Estimation and Incremental Inference in Generalized Linear Models with Streaming Data Sets
Authors: Luo Lan , Song Peter X.-K.
Published: December 2019

The paper presents an incremental updating algorithm to analyse streaming data sets using generalized linear models. The method proposed is formulated within a new framework of renewable estimation and incremental inference, in which the maximum likelihood estimator is renewed with current data and summary statistics of historical data. Our framework can be implemented within a popular distributed computing environment, known as Apache Spark, to scale up computation. Consisting of two data-processing layers, the rho architecture enables us to accommodate inference-related statistics and to facilitate sequential updating of the statistics used in both estimation and inference. We establish estimation consistency and asymptotic normality of the proposed renewable estimator, in which the Wald test is utilized for an incremental inference. Our methods are examined and illustrated by various numerical examples from both simulation experiments and a real world data analysis.
National and Regional Impacts of an Increase in Value‐Added Tax: A CGE Analysis for South Africa
Authors: Roos Elizabeth Lousia , Horridge J. Mark , van Heerden Jan H. , Adams Philip D. , Bohlmann Heinrich R. , Kobe Kgatedi Kenneth , Vumbukani‐Lepolesa Bokang
Published: December 2019

The South African National Treasury expected a revenue shortfall of R48.2 billion in 2017/18 and proposed tax policy measures to raise an additional R36 billion in 2018/19. A key component to raise the additional revenue was a 1% point increase in the VAT rate to 15% effective from 1 April 2018. The increase in the VAT rate was not welcomed as it would increase the cost of living, especially for the poor. We investigate the potential economy‐wide and regional impacts of raising VAT and increasing public spending on education and health. We do this by developing and applying a multi‐regional model of the South African economy that includes detailed tax and spending features. In this model, when we increase VAT, the impacts are driven by the direct shock to the model, accompanied by differences in regional economic activity. We find that effects on GDP vary between regions but are generally negative.
Abstention, Protest, and Residual Votes in the 2016 Election
Authors: Stewart Charles , Alvarez R. Michael , Pettigrew Stephen S. , Wimpy Cameron
Published: December 2019

Objective

We analyze the significant increase in the residual vote rate in the 2016 presidential election. The residual vote rate, which is the percentage of ballots cast in a presidential election that contain no vote for president, rose nationwide from 0.99 to 1.41 percent between 2012 and 2016.

Method

We use election return data and public opinion data to examine why the residual vote rate increased in 2016.

Results

The primary explanation for this rise is an increase in abstentions, which we argue results primarily from disaffected Republican voters rather than alienated Democratic voters. In addition, other factors related to election administration and electoral competition explain variation in the residual vote rates across states, particularly the use of mail/absentee ballots and the lack of competition at the top of the ticket in nonbattleground states. However, we note that the rise in the residual vote rate was not due to changes in voting technologies.

Conclusion

Our research has implications for the use of the residual vote as a metric for studying election administration and voting technologies.
Infrastructural citizenship: The everyday citizenships of adapting and/or destroying public infrastructure in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Lemanski Charlotte
Published: December 2019

This paper develops infrastructural citizenship as an analytical framework that bridges geography's sub‐disciplinary silos. While urban geography promotes infrastructure as a core lens for understanding the city, recognising that political struggles are mediated through infrastructure, discourses of citizenship are rarely employed. Similarly, while political and development geography promote citizenship as vital in understanding socio‐political life, often framed by citizen‐led action to secure basic rights and services, critical debates on urban infrastructure are typically overlooked. Consequently, despite the growth in studies recognising the politicised nature of urban infrastructure and the centrality of citizenship to urban life, the multiple ways that citizenship and infrastructure relate in diverse urban settings has received limited critical attention. This paper demonstrates how urban dwellers' relationship to public infrastructure in the domestic spaces of the home and settlement, and the temporal scale of the everyday, offers a representation of broader political identities and perceptions, framed through the language of citizenship. In South Africa, despite 25 years of significant post‐apartheid public investment in housing and services, frustration at poor service delivery and beneficiary (mis)use of public infrastructure remains dominant. While citizens adapt and consume public infrastructure in ways deemed “illegal” and “uncivil” by the state, citizens view these actions as a legitimate form of “citizenship‐in‐action” in the context of rapid urbanisation and poverty, and are frustrated by perceptions of state neglect. Using the analytical framework of infrastructural citizenship, the paper reveals how this state–society disjuncture represents a citizenship mismatch that is embodied in infrastructure, rather than a material product of state disinterest or citizen destruction per se.
Molecular characterization of community‐associated methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus from pet dogs
Authors: Ma Gemma C. , Worthing Kate A. , Gottlieb Thomas , Ward Michael P. , Norris Jacqueline M.
Published: December 2019

Community‐associated methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a serious public health concern and in Australia, one that disproportionately affects Aboriginal people. Paralleling MRSA in human medicine, methicillin‐resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) is an increasingly prevalent pathogen in veterinary medicine. We aimed to characterize the carriage of MRSA and MRSP in dogs and cats from predominantly Aboriginal communities in a very remote region of New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Pets (303 dogs and 80 cats) were recruited from six communities in western NSW. Three swabs were collected from each animal (anterior nares, oropharynx and perineum) and from skin lesions or wounds (if present) and cultured on selective media for methicillin‐resistant staphylococci. Human host‐adapted community‐associated MRSA representing four multilocus sequence types (ST1‐IV, ST5‐IV, ST72‐IV, ST93‐IV) were isolated from eight dogs (prevalence 2.6%, 95% confidence interval 1.3%–5.1%). Two ST5‐IV isolates from a single dog were phenotypically trimethoprim‐resistant, harbouring trimethoprim‐resistant gene dfrG within the SCCmec type IVo mobile genetic element. MRSA was not isolated from any cats and MRSP was not isolated from any dogs or cats. This study estimated a high prevalence of human host‐adapted community‐associated MRSA carriage in dogs despite an absence of MRSP. This suggests MRSA carried by dogs in remote NSW originate from human hosts. The cycle of transmission between people, dogs and common environmental sources warrants further investigation. To our knowledge, this is the first report of trimethoprim‐resistant ST5‐IV in eastern Australia and the first report of trimethoprim‐resistant ST5‐IV from a dog.
Avanços para redução da morbimortalidade das doenças crônicas não transmissíveis na população brasileira
Authors: Chaves Costa Francisca Bertilia , De Oliveira Branco July Grassiely Grassiely , Rocha Aguiar Francisca Alanny , Bezerra da Silva Júnior Geraldo , De Lima Saintrain Maria  Vieira  , Fontenelle Catrib Ana María 
Published: December 2019

Objetivou-se identificar, dentre as prioridades estabelecidas, o alcance das metas pactuadas para a redução da carga de morbimortalidade das doenças e agravos não-transmissíveis e seus fatores de risco no Brasil. Estudo descritivo e exploratório realizado por meio de investigação documental de pesquisas científicas, tendo por base a Agenda Estratégica da Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde. Diante das cinco metas propostas, identificaram-se como ações realizadas: Estabelecimento de ações específicas; Melhora no acesso aos serviços e planos de saúde e Programa Saúde da Família, vacinação e exames clínicos complementares; Investigação de fatores de riscos associados à saúde de escolares brasileiros; Monitoramento por inquérito telefônico dos fatores de risco e proteção para doenças crônicas até 2015; Vigilância das Doenças e Agravos Não-Transmissíveis e fatores de risco. Importantes avanços foram constatados pelos resultados identificados. Entretanto, para consolidação das metas, faz-se necessário monitoramento permanente e revisão das estratégias utilizadas.
Evolución de los accidentes de tránsito en las zonas urbanas y suburbanas de México en el periodo 1997-2016: mayor exposición al riesgo y menor letalidad
Authors: Sánchez Restrepo Harvey Spencer , Chias Becerril Luís , Reséndiz López Héctor
Published: December 2019

Objetivo: analizar la evolución temporal de la incidencia, letalidad y mortalidad de los accidentes de tránsito en zonas urbanas y suburbanas de la República Mexicana. Método: este es un análisis secundario de los accidentes de tránsito registrados en las zonas urbanas y suburbanas de México durante el periodo 1997-2016. Se estimaron las tasas de crecimiento poblacional, incidencia, letalidad y mortalidad de cada año para analizar la evolución de las series de tiempo y las relaciones entre las variaciones interanuales de estos índices. Resultados. A pesar de que los eventos de tránsito continúan en aumento, México presenta avances significativos en el control y reducción de las defunciones por esta causa. Respecto a 1997, el número de eventos registrados en 2016 aumentó 4%, los eventos fatales disminuyeron 21,9% y las defunciones 24,5%, lo que representa un aumento en la incidencia de 15,4% y un descenso en la letalidad y mortalidad de 48% y 40%, respectivamente. Conclusiones: la probabilidad de participar en un evento de tránsito ha aumentado progresivamente con el tiempo, no obstante, su letalidad y el riesgo de fallecer por esta causa ha disminuido significativamente en los últimos años.
Experimental Study With Analytical Validation of Energy Parameters in Parabolic Trough Collector With Twisted Tape Insert
Authors: Arunachala U. C.
Published: December 2019

Thermo-hydraulic performance evaluation of parabolic trough collector is important while introducing heat transfer augmentation techniques to it. In the present outdoor experimental study, the role of twisted tape is justified in laminar flow-based parabolic trough collector. For the Re range of 544–1742 and solar beam radiation of 400–750 W/m2, the use of twisted tape (twist ratios: 5.2, 4.1, and 2.7) resulted in maximum instantaneous efficiency of 22.3%, 29.5%, and 40%, respectively, against 19.1% with plain receiver. The effect of pressure drop rise on system performance due to twisted tape is found to be insignificant as effective thermo-hydraulic efficiency recorded are 21.8%, 29.3%, and 39.7%, respectively, with maximum uncertainty involved of 1.01%. In view of the importance of system performance evaluation over a wide range of operating parameters and limitation of outdoor experiments, an analytical model has been developed which followed the similar trend. The model takes into account various operating conditions, viz. laminar, twisted tape-based laminar and turbulent flow condition as well as air-in-annulus and evacuated receiver cases. Using the model (laminar region) in both plain and twisted tape cases, the maximum percentage deviation in the prediction of exit fluid temperature (in °C) and effective thermo-hydraulic efficiency are 1.6 and 13.3, respectively. Further, for a turbulent case, the maximum percentage deviation in exit temperature (in °C) noticed is 2.9. Hence, the developed analytical model is having a good agreement with the experimental outcomes.
Thin-Layer Mathematical Modeling of Turmeric in Indirect Natural Conventional Solar Dryer
Authors: Nukulwar Masnaji R. , Tungikar Vinod B.
Published: December 2019

The objective of this study is to find an optimized thin-layer mathematical model suitable for drying kinetics of turmeric. Turmeric has a high moisture content which necessitates effective drying. A 10 kg, sample batch, of turmeric was dried in a solar dryer. Drying air temperatures and air velocity were observed in the range of 55 °C–68 °C and 0.7 m/s–1.4 m/s, respectively, in the drying experiments. It is seen that the moisture content of the turmeric is reduced from 77% to 11.93% in 22 h when compared with open sun drying, which required 60 h for the same reduction in the moisture content. Scheffler dish was used to generate steam for the dryer. Seven thin-layer mathematical models, cited in the literature, had been used for the study. These models were applied for different trays placed in the dryer. The result of the research and experimentation showed that the Page model fits best for drying in the steam-based dryer and open sun drying. Experimental results showed 63.33% saving in drying time, and the drying efficiency was found as 29.85%. Uncertainty in the drying efficiency was observed as 0.67%. Experimental investigation and the findings from the mathematical modeling are presented in this paper.
Design, Analysis, and Integration of a New Two-Degree-of-Freedom Articulated Multi-Link Robotic Tail Mechanism
Authors: Liu Yujiong , Ben-Tzvi Pinhas
Published: December 2019

Based on observations from nature, tails are believed to help animals achieve highly agile motions. Traditional single-link robotic tails serve as a good simplification for both modeling and implementation purposes. However, this approach cannot explain the complicated tail behaviors exhibited in nature where multi-link structures are more commonly observed. Unlike its single-link counterpart, articulated multi-link tails essentially belong to the serial manipulator family which possesses special motion transmission design challenges. To address this challenge, a cable-driven hyper-redundant design becomes the most used approach. Limited by cable strength and elastic components, this approach suffers from low-frequency response, inadequate generated inertial loading, and fragile hardware, which are all critical drawbacks for robotic tails design. To solve these structure-related shortcomings, a multi-link robotic tail made up of rigid links is proposed in this paper. The new structure takes advantage of the traditional hybrid mechanism architecture, but utilizes rigid mechanisms to couple the motions between the ith link and the (i + 1)th link rather than using cable actuation. By doing so, the overall tail becomes a rigid mechanism that achieves quasi-uniform spatial bending for each segment and allows performing highly dynamic motions. The mechanism and detailed design of this new robotic tail are presented. The kinematic model was developed and an optimization process was conducted to reduce the bending non-uniformity for the rigid tail. Based on this special optimization design, the dynamic model of the new mechanism is significantly simplified. A small-scale three-segment prototype was integrated to verify the proposed mechanism's unique mobility.
Simple Alpha Particle Detector with an Air Ionization Chamber
Authors: Břízová Leontýna , Šlégr Jan , Váňová Kamila
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we discuss the theory of the operation and some practical considerations for the construction of an air ionization chamber, which can be used as a very simple detector of alpha particles. These detectors have several benefits compared to spinthariscopes and spark detectors. Classical experiments with ionization chamber detectors are presented. Ionization chambers equipped with a recording device, such as Arduino, are sensitive enough to evaluate the activity of lantern mantle alpha particle sources and uranium glass beads. Weak emitters are placed directly inside the chamber, which is then sealed with a shielding cap.
Two-Dimensional Diffraction Pattern by a Silk Cloth
Authors: Avvari Ravi Kant
Published: December 2019

Adiffraction grating is a plane surface having a large number of closely spaced slits running in parallel. When light of appropriate wavelength is incident on a diffraction grating it functions as a spectrometer, able to separate the light into its spectral components. Physical examples of interest for diffraction in the real world are numerous—for example, measuring the diameter of a human hair or fine thread-like material, diffraction due to razor blade, mesh, compact disc, banana stem as a natural grating, fabrics, and other materials. Students can also experiment with various materials—silk screen, cotton fabrics, a mesh made of closely aligned fibers (human hair, cat whiskers, and fur), and any other materials having microscale structures. In order to observe the wave nature of light, we should always choose the slit size and separation that is comparable to the wavelength of light. Here we revisit the wave nature of light by performing a simple diffraction experiment that required only a laser and a silk cloth (an approx. rectangular mesh).
Potentially Electric: An E-Textiles Project as a Model for Teaching Electric Potential
Authors: Ball Doug , Tofel-Grehl Colby
Published: December 2019

Electric potential is one of the most challenging concepts taught in high school physics classes due to the abstract nature of the concept. When taught, electric potential is often taught using a poorly triangulated set of instructional analogies, each possessing different strengths and limitations. Within this paper we share our learning from a two-week electronic textiles (e-textiles) unit designed to help students in an AP high school physics course improve their understanding of electric potential through the construction of a project entitled “The Slouching T-shirt” (STS) (Fig. 1). The STS project was part of a larger instructional unit on electricity and energy that seeks to make connections between energy, electric potential, and computer programming central to student learning.
Teaching an Old Ball New Tricks: Another Look at Energetics, Motion Detectors, and a Bouncing Rubber Ball
Authors: Marasco David
Published: December 2019

Abouncing rubber ball under a motion sensor is a classic of introductory physics labs. It is often used to measure the acceleration due to gravity, and can also demonstrate conservation of energy. By observing that the ball rises to a lower height upon each bounce, posing the question “What is the main source of energy loss?” and requiring students to construct their own measured values for velocity from position data, a rich lab experience can be created that results in good student discussions of proper analysis of data and implementation of models. The payoff is student understanding that seemingly small differences in definitions can lead to very different conclusions.
Using Kepler's laws and Rutherford scattering to chart the seven gravity assists in the epic sunward journey of the Parker Solar Probe
Authors: Longcope Dana
Published: December 2019

On August 12, 2018, NASA launched the Parker Solar Probe (PSP) to explore regions very near the Sun. Losing enough energy and angular momentum to approach the Sun requires either an impractical amount of fuel or a maneuver called a gravity assist. A gravity assist is essentially an elastic collision with a massive, moving target—Rutherford scattering from a planet. Gravity assists are often used to gain energy in missions destined for the outer solar system, but they can also be used to lose energy. Reaching an orbit sufficiently close to the Sun requires that PSP undergoes not one but seven successive gravity assists off the planet Venus. This simple description poses several conceptual challenges to the curious physics student. Why is it so much more challenging to get to the Sun than to leave the Solar System? Why does it take more than one gravity assist to achieve this, and why does it require seven? Would it be more effective to use Mercury instead of Venus? These questions can be answered using the basic physics principles of Kepler's laws and Rutherford scattering. The reasoning can be presented in an illuminating graphical format to show that these and other seemingly arcane aspects of interplanetary exploration can be understood at the undergraduate level.
Reflections in a moving mirror
Authors: Maesumi Mohsen
Published: December 2019

Euclid's law of reflection, r = i, rests on three assumptions: Fermat's principle of least time, constancy of speed of light, and that the mirror is stationary. For a moving mirror, the corresponding law is known as the relativistic reflection law; however, it was first inferred prior to relativity. While modern derivations rely on Lorentz transformations or Maxwell's equations, the original derivation was an elegant application of geometric optics. In this paper, we develop a new geometric approach which shows that the relativistic reflection from a plane mirror is equivalent to the ordinary reflection from a certain hyperbolic mirror, and that the incident and reflected rays are the focal rays of the hyperbola. We demonstrate that incident concentric spherical waves reflect as non-concentric spherical waves, and thereby derive the Doppler effect formula. We conclude with a class project for students to derive a generalization of Snell's law of refraction for a particular type of a moving interface.
Why are complex numbers needed in quantum mechanics? Some answers for the introductory level
Authors: Karam Ricardo
Published: December 2019

Complex numbers are broadly used in physics, normally as a calculation tool that makes things easier due to Euler's formula. In the end, it is only the real component that has physical meaning or the two parts (real and imaginary) are treated separately as real quantities. However, the situation seems to be different in quantum mechanics, since the imaginary unit i appears explicitly in its fundamental equations. From a learning perspective, this can create some challenges to newcomers. In this article, four conceptually different justifications for the use/need of complex numbers in quantum mechanics are presented and some pedagogical implications are discussed.
Conservative numerical methods for nonlinear oscillators
Authors: Holmes Mark H.
Published: December 2019

I show that it is straightforward to derive numerical methods that conserve the energy of nonlinear oscillators. The derivation is first done for a single particle and then extended to multiple particle systems. Examples considered include the pendulum, the Hénon-Heiles model, and the Fermi-Pasta-Ulam problem. Numerical experiments are shown and comparisons are made with nonconservative methods.
Effects of Postexercise Sauna Bathing on Recovery of Swim Performance
Authors: Skorski Sabrina , Schimpchen Jan , Pfeiffer Mark , Ferrauti Alexander , Kellmann Michael , Meyer Tim
Published: December 2019

Purpose: Despite indications of positive effects of sauna (SAU) interventions, effects on performance recovery are unknown. The aim of the current study was to investigate acute effects of SAU bathing after an intensive training session on recovery of swim performance. Methods: In total, 20 competitive swimmers and triathletes (3 female and 17 male) with a minimum of 2 y of competition experience (national level or higher) participated in the study. Athletes completed an intensive training session followed by either a SAU bathing intervention or a placebo (PLAC) condition in a randomized order. SAU consisted of 3 × 8 min of SAU bathing at 80–85°C, whereas during PLAC, athletes applied a deidentified, pH-balanced massage oil while passively resting in a seated position. Prior to training, swimmers conducted a 4 × 50-m all-out swim test that was repeated on the following morning. Furthermore, subjective ratings of fatigue and recovery were measured. Results: Swimmers performed significantly worse after SAU (4 × 50-m pre–post difference: +1.69 s) than after PLAC (−0.66 s; P = .02), with the most pronounced decrease in the first 50 m (P = .04; +2.7%). Overall performance of 15 athletes deteriorated (+2.6 s). The subjective feeling of stress was significantly higher after SAU than after PLAC (P = .03). Conclusion: Based on published findings, the smallest substantial change in swimming performance is an increase in time of more than 1.2 s; thus, the observed reductions appear relevant for competitive swimmers. According to the current results, coaches and athletes should be careful with postexercise SAU if high-intensity training and/or competitions are scheduled on the following day.
Epidemiological Trends of Fungemia in Greece with a Focus on Candidemia during the Recent Financial Crisis: a 10-Year Survey in a Tertiary Care Academic Hospital and Review of Literature
Authors: Siopi Maria , Tarpatzi Aikaterini , Kalogeropoulou Eleni , Damianidou Sofia , Vasilakopoulou Alexandra , Vourli Sophia , Pournaras Spyros , Meletiadis Joseph
Published: December 2019

Updated information on the epidemiology of candidemia, particularly during severe socioeconomic events, is important for proper management of these infections.
Activity of Chitosan and Its Derivatives against Leishmania major and Leishmania mexicana
In Vitro
Authors: Riezk Alaa , Raynes John G. , Yardley Vanessa , Murdan Sudaxshina , Croft Simon L.
Published: December 2019

There is an urgent need for safe, efficacious, affordable, and field-adapted drugs for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis, which newly affects around 1.5 million people worldwide annually. Chitosan, a biodegradable cationic polysaccharide, has previously been reported to have antimicrobial, antileishmanial, and immunostimulatory activities.
β-Lactamase of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Shows Dynamics in the Active Site That Increase upon Inhibitor Binding
Authors: Elings Wouter , Gaur Anamika , Blok Anneloes J. , Timmer Monika , van Ingen Hugo , Ubbink Marcellus
Published: December 2019

The
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
β-lactamase BlaC is a broad-spectrum β-lactamase that can convert a range of β-lactam antibiotics. Enzymes with low specificity are expected to exhibit active-site flexibility. To probe the motions in BlaC, we studied the dynamic behavior in solution using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
15
N relaxation experiments show that BlaC is mostly rigid on the pico- to nanosecond timescale.
Fact versus Fiction: a Review of the Evidence behind Alcohol and Antibiotic Interactions
Authors: Mergenhagen Kari A. , Wattengel Bethany A. , Skelly Megan K. , Clark Collin M. , Russo Thomas A.
Published: December 2019

Many antibiotics carry caution stickers that warn against alcohol consumption. Data regarding concurrent use are sparse. An awareness of data that address this common clinical scenario is important so health care professionals can make informed clinical decisions and address questions in an evidence-based manner. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the evidence behind alcohol warnings issued for many common antimicrobials.
BceAB-Type Antibiotic Resistance Transporters Appear To Act by Target Protection of Cell Wall Synthesis
Authors: Kobras Carolin M. , Piepenbreier Hannah , Emenegger Jennifer , Sim Andre , Fritz Georg , Gebhard Susanne
Published: December 2019

Resistance against cell wall-active antimicrobial peptides in bacteria is often mediated by transporters. In low-GC-content Gram-positive bacteria, a common type of such transporters is BceAB-like systems, which frequently provide high-level resistance against peptide antibiotics that target intermediates of the lipid II cycle of cell wall synthesis. How a transporter can offer protection from drugs that are active on the cell surface, however, has presented researchers with a conundrum.
LaeA Controls Citric Acid Production through Regulation of the Citrate Exporter-EncodingcexAGene in Aspergillus luchuensis mut.kawachii
Authors: Kadooka Chihiro , Nakamura Eri , Mori Kazuki , Okutsu Kayu , Yoshizaki Yumiko , Takamine Kazunori , Goto Masatoshi , Tamaki Hisanori , Futagami Taiki
Published: December 2019

A. kawachiihas been traditionally used for production of the distilled spirit shochu in Japan. Citric acid produced byA. kawachiiplays an important role in preventing microbial contamination during the shochu fermentation process. This study characterized homologouslaeAgenes; using CAGE, complementation tests, and ChIP-qPCR, it was found thatlaeAis required for citric acid production through the regulation ofcexAinA. kawachii. The epigenetic regulation of citric acid production elucidated in this study will be useful for controlling the fermentation processes of shochu.
Core Rhizosphere Microbiomes of Dryland Wheat Are Influenced by Location and Land Use History
Authors: Schlatter Daniel C. , Yin Chuntao , Hulbert Scot , Paulitz Timothy C.
Published: December 2019

Plant-associated microbiomes are critical for plant health and other important agroecosystem processes. We assessed the bacterial and fungal microbiomes of wheat grown in soils from across a dryland wheat cropping systems in eastern Washington to identify the core microbiome on wheat roots that is consistent across soils from different locations and land use histories. Moreover, cross-domain co-occurrence network analysis identified core and hub taxa that may play important roles in microbial community assembly. Candidate core and hub taxa provide a starting point for targeting microbiome components likely to be critical to plant health and for constructing synthetic microbial communities for further experimentation. This work is one of the first examples of identifying a core microbiome on a major field crop grown across hundreds of square kilometers over a wide range of biogeographical zones.
Honokiol Restores Polymyxin Susceptibility to MCR-1-Positive Pathogens both
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Authors: Guo Yan , Lv Xiaohong , Wang Yanling , Zhou Yonglin , Lu Na , Deng Xuming , Wang Jianfeng
Published: December 2019

In the present study, honokiol could effectively inhibit the activity of MCR-1 and showed almost no cytotoxicity to MH-S cells. According to our results, the combination of honokiol and polymyxin had a clear synergistic effect against MCR-1-positive
Enterobacteriaceae in vitro
. Combination therapy also showed a powerful therapeutic effect
in vivo
, which can significantly improve mouse livability, reduced the load of bacteria, and reduced pathological change. This combined therapy of small molecule compounds and antibiotics may not continue to induce new bacterial resistance, due to the fact that MCR-1 targeted by honokiol is not indispensable for the bacterial viability; on the other hand, it can reduce the dosage of combined antibiotics, and it is also a promising alternative therapy for the treatment of drug-resistant infections in the future.
The 5′ NAD Cap of RNAIII Modulates Toxin Production in Staphylococcus aureus Isolates
Authors: Morales-Filloy Hector Gabriel , Zhang Yaqing , Nübel Gabriele , George Shilpa Elizabeth , Korn Natalya , Wolz Christiane , Jäschke Andres
Published: December 2019

Numerous organisms, including bacteria, are endowed with a 5′ NAD cap in specific RNAs. While the presence of the 5′ NAD cap modulates the stability of the modified RNA species, a significant biological function and phenotype have not been assigned so far. Here, we show the presence of a 5′ NAD cap in RNAIII from
S. aureus
, a dual-function regulatory RNA involved in quorum-sensing processes and regulation of virulence factor expression. We also demonstrate that altering the natural NAD modification ratio of RNAIII leads to a decrease in exotoxin production, thereby modulating the bacterium’s virulence. Our work unveils a new layer of regulation of RNAIII and the
agr
system that might be linked to the redox state of the NAD molecule in the cell.
Pliocene short-term climate changes preserved in continental shallow lacustrine-palustrine carbonates: Western Opache Formation, Atacama Desert, Chile
Authors: de Wet Carol B. , de Wet Andrew P. , Godfrey Linda , Driscoll Elizabeth , Patzkowsky Samuel , Xu Chi , Gigliotti Sophia , Feitl Melina
Published: December 2019

Multiple climate proxies indicate episodic changes in moisture levels within an ∼1 Ma duration (early–mid Pliocene) interval. Limestones within the Opache Formation, Calama Basin, Atacama Desert region, Chile, contain evidence for wetter and drier periods on short time scales. Proxies include carbonate lithological changes, paleontology (stromatolites, oncolites, gastropods, ostracods and diatoms), O and C stable isotopes, geochemistry, and mineralogical changes (aragonite, calcite, Mg-calcite, dolomite and gypsum) throughout a 30 m stratigraphic section. Stromatolite fossil cyanobacteria dark and light laminations and mesohaline to hypersaline diatom species suggest Pliocene annual seasonality. Short-term changes between wetter and drier conditions indicate that at least this part of the Atacama region was experiencing relatively rapid early–mid Pliocene climate instability. The predominance of limestone in the Opache Formation, in contrast to the 1500 m of Oligocene-Miocene siliciclastic conglomerates and sandstones, interpreted as arid climate alluvium, that underlie it, indicates a shift from arid or hyperarid climate to a semi-arid climate. Semi-arid conditions promoted limestone deposition in a shallow lacustrine-palustrine environment. In this setting, events such as storms with associated surface water flow, erosion, siliciclastic sand, gravel, and intraclast deposition, coupled with significant biological activity, represent sedimentation during more humid periods in a shallow lacustrine depositional environment. In contrast, limestone characterized by mudcracks, Navicula diatoms, and vadose syndepositional cementation, reflect periods of enhanced evaporation, water shallowing, and episodic desiccation, characteristic of a palustrine depositional system. These facies shifts, in conjunction with geochemical and isotopic proxy evidence, yield a sedimentary record of wetter and drier climate shifts.
Compatibility of pentoxifylline and parenteral medications
Authors: Campbell Anna L , Petrovski Michael , Senarathna SMDK Ganga , Mukadam Nabeelah , Strunk Tobias , Batty Kevin T
Published: December 2019

Objective

To investigate the physical and chemical compatibility of pentoxifylline (PTX) with a range of parenteral medications used in neonatal intensive care.

Design

PTX and drug solutions were combined in glass vials, inspected for physical incompatibility and evaluated on the basis of PTX concentrations for chemical compatibility.

Results

No precipitation, colour change or turbidity was observed in any of the test mixtures. The PTX concentration was approximately 5.5% lower when combined with undiluted calcium gluconate injection (100 mg/mL). The PTX concentration ratios for all other combinations, including diluted calcium gluconate injection (50 mg/mL), were in the range of 99.5%–102%.

Conclusion

In simulated Y-site conditions, PTX was found to be compatible with 15 parenteral medications and six total parenteral nutrition solutions. Based on PTX concentration tests, it would be prudent to avoid mixing PTX with undiluted calcium gluconate injection.
Neurosyphilis presenting as visually asymptomatic bilateral optic perineuritis
Authors: Yosar Jason
Published: December 2019

A 39-year-old Caucasian man presented with headaches and retro-orbital pain but normal vision. Bilateral optic nerve swelling was found on funduscopy though optic nerve function and computed perimetry were normal and there was no relative afferent pupillary defect. CT venogram and MRI were unremarkable. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure was normal on lumbar puncture andTreponema pallidumantibodies andT. pallidumparticle agglutination test were positive on CSF analysis. He tested negative for HIV. Symptoms rapidly resolved with 2 weeks of intravenous benzylpenicillin. At 1 month follow-up, the right optic nerve swelling had reduced while the left optic nerve swelling had increased; his vision remained unaffected and he was symptom free and continued to have no objective evidence of optic nerve dysfunction.
Synthesis of qualitative research studies regarding the factors surrounding UK critical care trial infrastructure
Authors: Pattison Natalie , Arulkumaran Nishkantha , O'Gara Geraldine , Connolly Bronwen , Humphreys Sally , Walsh Tim , Hopkins Philip , Dark Paul
Published: December 2019

Conducting clinical trials in critical care is integral to improving patient care. Unique practical and ethical considerations exist in this patient population that make patient recruitment challenging, including narrow recruitment timeframes and obtaining patient consent often in time-critical situations. Units currently vary significantly in their ability to recruit according to infrastructure and level of research activity.

Aim

To identify variability in the research infrastructure of UK intensive care units and their ability to conduct research and recruit patients into clinical trials.

Design

We evaluated factors related to intensive care patient enrolment into clinical trials in the UK. This consisted of a qualitative synthesis carried out with two datasets of in-depth interviews (distinct participants across the two datasets) conducted with 27 intensive care consultants (n=9), research nurses (n=17) and trial coordinators (n=1) from 27 units across the UK. Primary and secondary analyses of two datasets (one dataset had been analysed previously) were undertaken in the thematic analysis.

Findings

The synthesis yielded an overarching core theme of normalising research, characterised by motivations for promoting research and fostering research-active cultures within resource constraints, with six themes under this to explain the factors influencing critical care research capacity: organisational, human, study, practical resources, clinician and patient/family factors. There was a strong sense of integrating research in routine clinical practice, and recommendations are outlined.

Conclusions

The central and transferable tenet of normalising research advocates the importance of developing a culture where research is inclusive alongside clinical practice in routine patient care and is a requisite for all healthcare individuals from organisational to direct patient contact level.
Injury from electric scooters in Copenhagen: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Blomberg Stig Nikolaj Fasmer , Rosenkrantz Oscar Carl Moeller , Lippert Freddy , Collatz Christensen Helle
Published: December 2019

Objective

To analyse injuries related to manual and electric scooter use from January 2016 up to and including July 2019.

Setting

Electric scooter rental services were launched in Denmark in January 2019. The services were provided by private companies. Although rules for handling and riding scooters have been established, no reports either before or after introduction of electric scooters anticipated the full extent of use, and injuries to riders and pedestrians.

Participants

All patient records mentioning manual or electric scooters. Records were reviewed, and data were stratified according to two groups: manual and electric scooters.

Interventions

A predefined survey was completed in all cases where ‘scooter’ was present. This contained variables such as type of scooter, type of participant, mechanism of injury, acuity, intoxication, referral to treatment facility.

Outcome measures

Among incidents involving scooters, summary statistics on continuous and categorical variables of interest were reported.

Results

468 scooter-related injuries were recorded. We found that manual scooter riders were more likely to be children under the age of 15; fall alone—involving no other party; sustain contusions, sprains and lacerations; and bruise either their fingers or toes. Riders of electric scooters were likely to be 18–25 years, sustain facial bruising and lacerations requiring sutures, and be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Non-riders of electric scooters were mostly elderly people who tripped over scooters, consequently sustaining moderate to severe injuries.

Conclusion

There were two different types of population sustaining injuries from manual and electric scooters, respectively. The proportion of non-riders injured by electric scooters were surprisingly large (17%), and while electric scooters are here to stay, several apparently preventable injuries occur as a result of reckless driving and discarded electric scooters. Current rules for usage might not prevent unnecessary accidents and secure traffic safety and the lives of older individuals.
Care and outcomes of Canadian children hospitalised with periorbital and orbital cellulitis: protocol for a multicentre, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gill Peter J , Parkin Patricia C , Begum Nurshad , Drouin Olivier , Foulds Jessica , Pound Catherine , Quet Julie , Vomiero Gemma , Wahi Gita , Sakran Mahmoud , Kozlowski Natascha , Bayliss Ann , Kanani Ronik , Sehgal Anupam , Pullenayegum Eleanor M , Reginald Arun , Wolter Nikolaus , Mahant Sanjay
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Skin and soft tissue infections of the eye can be classified based on anatomic location as either anterior to the orbital septum (ie, periorbital cellulitis) or posterior to the orbital septum (ie, orbital cellulitis). These two conditions are often considered together in hospitalised children as clinical differentiation is difficult, especially in young children. Prior studies have identified variation in management of hospitalised children with orbital cellulitis; however, they have been limited either as single centre studies or by the use of administrative data which lacks clinical details important for interpreting variation in care. We aim to describe the care and outcomes of Canadian children hospitalised with periorbital and orbital cellulitis.

Method and analysis

This is a multisite retrospective cohort study including previously healthy children aged 2 months to 18 years admitted to hospital with periorbital or orbital cellulitis from 2009 to 2018. Clinical data from medical records from multiple Canadian hospitals will be collected, including community and academic centres. Demographic characteristics and study outcomes will be summarised using descriptive statistics, including diagnostic testing, antibiotic therapy, adjunctive therapy, surgical intervention and clinical outcomes. Variation will be described and evaluated using χ² test or Kruskal-Wallis test. Generalised linear mixed models will be used to identify predictors of surgical intervention and longer length of stay.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval of the study by the Research Ethics Board at each participating site has been obtained prior to data extraction. Study results will be disseminated by presentations at national and international meetings and by publications in high impact open access journals. By identifying important differences in management and outcomes by each hospital, the results will identify areas where care can be improved, practice standardised, unnecessary diagnostic imaging reduced, pharmacotherapy rationalised and where trials are needed.
Impact of concussion and severe musculoskeletal injuries on the onset of mental health symptoms in male professional rugby players: a 12-month study
Authors: Kilic Özgür , Hopley Phil , Kerkhoffs Gino M M J , Lambert Mike , Verhagen Evert , Viljoen Wayne , Wylleman Paul , Gouttebarge Vincent
Published: December 2019

Objective

This study explored the association between concussion or musculoskeletal injuries, and the onset of mental health symptoms (MHS) in male professional rugby players over a 12-month period.

Methods

Observational prospective cohort study with three measurements over a follow-up period of 12 months. At baseline, 573 participants provided informed consent. A total of 327 male professional rugby players (62% forwards, 38% backs) completed all follow-up assessments at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. The mean (±SD) age, height and weight of the participants at baseline was 25.9 (±4.4) years, 184.9 (±8.7) cm and 101.5 (±14.6) kg, respectively. Number of musculoskeletal injuries and number of confirmed concussions were assessed through single questions. Symptoms of distress, anxiety/depression, sleep disturbance, adverse alcohol use and eating disorders were assessed using validated questionnaires.

Results

Professional rugby players who sustained a concussion within 12 months of baseline were more likely to develop MHS with ORs ranging from 1.5 (95% CI 1.0 to 2.1) for distress to 2.0 (1.2 to 3.6) for adverse alcohol use. Players who sustained a severe injury within 12 months of baseline were more likely to develop symptoms anxiety/depression with an OR of 1.5 (1.1 to 2.0). There was no significant association in both groups for other MHS.

Conclusions

Rugby players who sustained concussion or severe injuries are up to two times more likely to develop symptoms of distress, adverse alcohol use or anxiety/depression.
Relationship between neuropsychiatric disorders and cognitive and behavioural change in MND
Authors: McHutchison Caroline A , Leighton Danielle Jane , McIntosh Andrew , Cleary Elaine , Warner Jon , Porteous Mary , Chandran Siddharthan , Pal Suvankar , Abrahams Sharon
Published: December 2019

Objective

In this population-based study, we aimed to determine whether neuropsychiatric history, medication or family history of neuropsychiatric disorders predicted cognitive and/or behavioural impairment in motor neuron disease (MND).

Methods

People with MND (pwMND) on the Scottish Clinical, Audit, Research and Evaluation of MND (CARE-MND) register, diagnosed from January 2015 to January 2018, with cognitive and/or behavioural data measured using the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioural ALS Screen were included. Data were extracted on patient neuropsychiatric, medication and family history of neuropsychiatric disorders. We identified patients with cognitive impairment (motor neuron disease with cognitive impairment (MNDci)), behavioural impairment (motor neuron disease with behavioural impairment (MNDbi), both (motor neuron disease with cognitive and behavioural impairment (MNDcbi)) or motor neuron disease–frontotemporal dementia (MND-FTD).

Results

Data were available for 305 pwMND (mean age at diagnosis=62.26 years, SD=11.40), of which 60 (19.7%) had a neuropsychiatric disorder. A family history of neuropsychiatric disorders was present in 36/231 (15.58%) of patients. Patient premorbid mood disorders were associated with increased apathy (OR=2.78, 95% CI 1.083 to 7.169). A family history of any neuropsychiatric disorder was associated with poorer visuospatial scores, MNDbi (OR=3.14, 95% CI 1.09 to 8.99) and MND-FTD (OR=5.08, 95% CI 1.26 to 20.40). A family history of mood disorders was associated with poorer overall cognition (exp(b)=0.725, p=0.026), language, verbal fluency and visuospatial scores, and MND-FTD (OR=7.57, 95% CI 1.55 to 46.87). A family history of neurotic disorders was associated with poorer language (exp(b)=0.362, p<0.001), visuospatial scores (exp(b)=0.625, p<0.009) and MND-FTD (OR=13.75, 95% CI 1.71 to 110.86).

Conclusion

Neuropsychiatric disorders in patients and their families are associated with cognitive and behavioural changes post-MND diagnosis, with many occurring independently of MND-FTD and C9orf72 status. These findings support an overlap between MND, frontotemporal dementia and neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly mood disorders.