bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elementos para pensar la necesidad de la memoria: una lectura de la segunda de las tesis sobre la historia de W. Benjamin
Authors: Cifuentes Quiñónez Luis Antonio
Published: September 2019

En este escrito esbozaremos algunas vías que nos conducen a pensar la necesidad de la memoria, inherente a la vivencia del presente. Lo hare- mos en torno a tres líneas temáticas, desde la filosofía de la historia: la relación de pertenencia del pasado a nuestro presente; el problema de la disposición personal del sujeto del conocimiento histórico y su pertenen- cia inevitable al presente en el nivel de acción; y el sentido de una posible experiencia histórica individual y colectiva y su intersección, cuando se trata de establecer si es pertinente hacer una memoria exhaustiva de los que murieron por causa del conflicto armado. Para ello, acudiremos a la filosofía benjaminiana de la memoria y propondremos algunos parentes- cos con las filosofías del olvido, el recuerdo y la memoria de Nietzsche y de Bergson. Buscamos así establecer la realidad del pasado que tiene su base en la existencia virtual del recuerdo y, a partir de ahí, determinar la posibilidad de ser actualizado de este último en la forma de fuerzas vitales, comprometidas en la construcción de un futuro.
Mites of the family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Cheyletoidea) parasitizing waxbills of the genus Estrilda (Passeriformes: Estrildidae)

Authors: Skoracki Maciej , Hromada Martin , Prevuznakova Petra , Wamiti Wanyoike
Published: September 2019

Quill mites (Acariformes: Prostigmata: Syringophilidae) parasitizing waxbills of genus Estrilda Swainson (Aves: Passeriformes: Estrildidae) from the Sub-Saharan region are studied for the first time. Among them, a new species, Syringophiloidus estrildus sp. nov., is described and new host species for Neosyringophilopsis lonchurus Skoracki, 2008, Neoaulonastus oryzivorus (Skoracki, 2011) comb. nov., and Picobia lonchurae Skoracki et al., 2016 are recorded. In our study, we examined 120 specimens belonging to seven of the 16 (44%) species of the genus Estrilda. The prevalence of infestation by syringophilid species varied from 3.7 to 25%. The host and habitat (feather type) specificity are discussed.
Spectroscopic ellipsometry study of FAxMA1−xPbI3 hybrid perovskite single crystals
Authors: Alonso Maria Isabel , Charles Bethan , Francisco-López Adrián , Garriga Miquel , Weller Mark T. , Goñi Alejandro R.
Published: September 2019

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites have the generic formula ABX3, where X denotes a halide anion and A and B stand for an organic and a metal cation, respectively. These hybrid compounds are semiconductors with highly interesting and tunable properties. They are the subject of intense research for several applications, mainly in solar cells but also as light-emitting diodes and lasers. Tunability of the optical properties may be accomplished by site-substituted solid solutions in A, B, or X sites. In particular, some mixed-cation systems show increased stability for these applications. In this work, the authors report on the variation of the optical constants in mixed A-site cation methylammonium/formamidinium (MA/FA) lead iodide perovskites FAxMA1−xPbI3 evaluated by spectroscopic ellipsometry in single crystal samples. The two main polymorphs of FAPbI3 are measured. The study is complemented by photoluminescence measurements to gain a better insight into observed spectroscopic features related to the electronic interband transitions of the crystals and their structural integrity. The main result is a continuous variation of the pseudocubic perovskite band structure of the solid solutions between the two end compounds MAPbI3 and α-FAPbI3.
Evaluation of the chemical and optical perturbations induced by Ar plasma on InP surface
Authors: Béchu Solène , Eypert Céline , Loubat Anais , Vigneron Jackie , Gaiaschi Sofia , Chapon Patrick , Bouttemy Muriel , Etcheberry Arnaud
Published: September 2019

Interfaces are of primary importance in heterostructures. The authors propose here an innovative methodologic development to access the chemical information in depth and, especially, at buried interfaces. This specific approach is based on the combination of glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GD-OES) plasma profiling, enabling one to quickly and precisely reach buried interfaces, with x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy surface analyses, bringing an accurate determination of the composition and the chemical environments. The representativeness of the crater chemistry is, therefore, a critical issue. On the InP substrate, the fine examination inside the GD-OES crater reveals surface modifications, chemical, morphological, and optical, and, as a consequence, the need to regenerate the initial chemical information. The authors present here a study dedicated to the evaluation of those modifications thanks to a multitechnique approach, with an important contribution of spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements. A crater regeneration strategy, by means of a nanochemical etching, is proposed and also assessed by the same analytical pathway, proving the recovery of the initial InP properties.
Underwater acoustic energy fluctuations during strong internal wave activity using a three-dimensional parabolic equation model
Authors: Dossot Georges A. , Smith Kevin B. , Badiey Mohsen , Miller James H. , Potty Gopu R.
Published: September 2019

The three-dimensional Monterey–Miami parabolic equation model is used to simulate a nonlinear internal wave (NIW) crossing the sound field in a shallow water environment. The impetus for this research stems from acoustic measurements taken during the Shallow Water '06 (SW06) field experiment, where a NIW traversed the water column such that soliton wavecrests were nearly parallel to the source–receiver path. Horizontal refraction effects are important in this scenario. A sound speed profile adapted from experimental SW06 data is used to simulate the NIW, assuming variations along the wavecrests (e.g., curvature) are negligible. Broadband and modal energy metrics show acoustic fluctuations due to internal wave activity. Repeated model runs simulate the NIW crossing the parabolic equation (PE) field over space and time. Statistical analysis shows the PE data are best fit by a lognormal distribution but tends to an exponential distribution during certain scenarios. Small angle differences between the acoustic track and the propagating NIW cause substantial differences in energy distribution throughout the PE field. While refraction effects due to the leading edge of the NIW's arrival are important in all cases, the impacts of focusing and defocusing in the perfectly parallel case dominate the field fluctuations. In the non-parallel case, the strong fluctuations introduced by the passage of the NIW are of similar order to the refraction off the leading edge.
Whispering gallery waves localized near circular isobaths in shallow water
Authors: Katsnelson Boris G. , Petrov Pavel S.
Published: September 2019

Sound propagation in an area of shallow sea with circular isobaths and the bottom depth increasing towards their curvature center is considered. Such an area could be part of a bay, a lagoon, or a lake with bowl-like bottom relief. The possible formation of whispering gallery waves localized in the vicinity of curved isobaths is considered. Simple criteria for the formation of such whispering gallery due to horizontal refraction are derived; their transverse modal structure is described analytically in terms of Bessel functions and using the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin–Jeffreys approximation. The corresponding azimuthal wavenumbers and radial mode functions are computed. Dispersion of such waves is also investigated, and the possibility of their experimental observation is discussed.
Three-dimensional bottom diffraction in the North Pacific
Authors: Stephen Ralph A. , Bolmer S. Thompson , Worcester Peter F. , Dzieciuch Matthew A. , Udovydchenkov Ilya A.
Published: September 2019

A significant aspect of bottom-interaction in deep water acoustic propagation, from point sources to point receivers, is the diffraction (or scattering) of energy from discrete seafloor locations along repeatable, deterministic paths in three-dimensions. These bottom-diffracted surface-reflected (BDSR) paths were first identified on the North Pacific acoustic laboratory experiment in 2004 (NPAL04) for a diffractor located on the side of a small seamount. On the adjacent deep seafloor, ambient noise and propagation in the ocean sound channel were sufficiently quiet that the BDSRs were the dominant arrival. The ocean bottom seismometer augmentation in the North Pacific (OBSANP) experiment in June–July 2013 studied BDSRs at the NPAL04 site in more detail. BDSRs are most readily identified by the arrival time of pulses as a function of range to the receiver for a line of transmissions. The diffraction points for BDSRs occur on the relatively featureless deep seafloor as well as on the sides of small seamounts. Although the NPAL04 and OBSANP experiments had very different geometries the same diffractor location is consistent with observed arrivals in both experiments within the resolution of the analysis. On OBSANP the same location excites BDSRs for 77.5, 155, and 310 Hz transmissions.
Three-dimensional ambient noise modeling in a submarine canyon
Authors: Barclay David R. , Lin Ying-Tsong
Published: September 2019

A quasi-analytical three-dimensional (3D) normal mode model for longitudinally invariant environments can be used to compute vertical noise coherence in idealized ocean environments. An examination of the cross modal amplitudes in the modal decomposition of the noise cross-spectral density shows that the computation can be simplified, without loss of fidelity, by modifying the vertical and horizontal mode sums to exclude non-identical mode numbers. In the special case of a Gaussian canyon, the across-canyon variation of the vertical wave number associated with each mode allows a set of horizontally trapped modes to be generated. Full 3D and Nx2D parabolic equation sound propagation models can also be used to calculate vertical noise coherence and horizontal directionality. Intercomparison of these models in idealized and realistic canyon environments highlights the focusing effect of the bathymetry on the noise field. The absolute vertical noise coherence increases, while the zero-crossings of the real component of the coherence are displaced in frequency when out-of-plane propagation is accounted for.
Split-step Padé solver for three-dimensional Cartesian acoustic parabolic equation in stair-step representation of ocean environment
Authors: Lee Keunhwa , Seong Woojae , Na Youngnam
Published: September 2019

In this study, the three-dimensional Cartesian acoustic parabolic equation is fully solved in the stair-step representation of an ocean environment based on the split-step Padé algorithm. The sum representation of the Padé approximation of a full exponential operator in the split-step marching solution is used for parallel computing. A stabilized self-starter solution is derived in the same way. This solver is benchmarked against reference solutions for a rectangular duct propagation, an ideal wedge problem, and an axisymmetric ocean. Additionally, a solution for the Gaussian canyon problem is provided and compared with that obtained from the approximate parabolic equation solver, considering a leading-order cross-term.
Three-dimensional modeling of earthquake generated acoustic waves in the ocean in simplified configurations
Authors: Lecoulant Jean , Guennou Claude , Guillon Laurent , Royer Jean-Yves
Published: September 2019

The low-frequency (4–40 Hz) acoustic waves generated by undersea earthquakes are of great importance to monitor the low-level seismic activity associated with seafloor spreading ridges. To better understand the near-source interaction of seismic waves with the seafloor and the resulting generation of low-frequency acoustic waves, the wave propagation in a solid medium (the Earth's crust) and in the overlaying fluid medium (the ocean) were jointly simulated using a three-dimensional (3D) spectral finite-element code (SPECFEM3D). Due to numerical limitations of 3D simulations, the focus was on simple model configurations with a 1 Hz source located below a Gaussian seamount or ridge. The simulated acoustic waves (0–2.5 Hz) propagate as Rayleigh modes and are affected by modal dispersion; their horizontal speed increases away from the source and reaches the sound speed about 140 km away. The amplitude of the generated acoustic waves is affected by the shape of the seafloor topography above the seismic source, as well as their travel times to hydrophones. Consequently, localization of the acoustic sources by trilateration from arrival times may be biased by 3D-effects, and thus the seismic/acoustic conversion zone may not match the epicenter.
Three-dimensional global scale underwater sound modeling: The T-phase wave propagation of a Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge earthquake
Authors: C. A. Oliveira Tiago , Lin Ying-Tsong
Published: September 2019

A three-dimensional (3D) geodesic Cartesian parabolic equation model is utilized to study the propagation of low-frequency underwater sound (5 to 20 Hz), the so-called T-phase wave, triggered by a Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge earthquake. The sound from the earthquake was recorded at 1050 km from the epicenter by the deep water hydrophones of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization network near Ascension Island. A few hours later and at 8655 km from the epicenter, the hydrophones of the Shallow Water 2006 experiment in the U.S. East coast also registered the sound. Recorded field data showed discrepancies between expected and measured arrival angles indicating the likely occurrence of horizontal sound reflection in the long waveguide journey. Numerical modeling of this T-phase wave propagation across the Atlantic Ocean with realistic physical oceanographic inputs was performed, and the results showed the importance of 3D effects induced by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and Atlantic Islands. Future research directions, including localization of T-phase wave generation/excitation locations, are also discussed.
Audio-video virtual reality environments in building acoustics: An exemplary study reproducing performance results and subjective ratings of a laboratory listening experiment
Authors: Muhammad Imran , Vorländer Michael , Schlittmeier Sabine J.
Published: September 2019

The present study adopted a human-centred approach to explore the potential of audio-video Virtual Reality (VR) to evaluate indoor noise protection by building characteristics. Different background speech conditions, convolved with sound insulation filters of adjacent office rooms, were presented in a VR office environment and the effects on cognitive performances and subjective ratings were measured. The found effect patterns were the same as those obtained in a real laboratory setting reported by Schlittmeier, Hellbrück, Thaden, and Vorländer. [(2008). Ergonomics 51, 719–736]. This exemplary study promises various options for research on noise effects by the use of virtual built environments which are of high plausibility and unlimited variability.
Compressive synthetic aperture sonar imaging with distributed optimization
Authors: Xenaki Angeliki , Pailhas Yan
Published: September 2019

Synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) provides high-resolution acoustic imaging by processing coherently the backscattered acoustic signal recorded over consecutive pings. Traditionally, object detection and classification tasks rely on high-resolution seafloor mapping achieved with widebeam, broadband SAS systems. However, aspect- or frequency-specific information is crucial for improving the performance of automatic target recognition algorithms. For example, low frequencies can be partly transmitted through objects or penetrate the seafloor providing information about internal structure and buried objects, while multiple views provide information about the object's shape and dimensions. Sub-band and limited-view processing, though, degrades the SAS resolution. In this paper, SAS imaging is formulated as an ℓ1-norm regularized least-squares optimization problem which improves the resolution by promoting a parsimonious representation of the data. The optimization problem is solved in a distributed and computationally efficient way with an algorithm based on the alternating direction method of multipliers. The resulting SAS image is the consensus outcome of collaborative filtering of the data from each ping. The potential of the proposed method for high-resolution, narrowband, and limited-aspect SAS imaging is demonstrated with simulated and experimental data.
Time-harmonic convention of exp(–iωt) can be preferable to exp(+iωt) (L)
Authors: Shin Ho-Chul
Published: September 2019

Since (±i)2 = –1, there are two time-harmonic conventions, namely, exp(+iωt) and exp(–iωt) with ω and t for angular frequency and time, respectively. Both conventions are mathematically valid. However, a question may still be asked whether a specific acoustic problem can favor one or the other convention. This letter reports one such example in which the use of exp(–iωt) can be preferable when the principal value of the square root of a complex number is considered as an argument of the Hankel functions in the context of 2.5-dimensional problems.
Absolute and Relative Load and Injury in Elite Junior Australian Football Players Over 1 Season
Authors: Lathlean Timothy J.H. , Gastin Paul B. , Newstead Stuart V. , Finch Caroline F.
Published: September 2019

Purpose: To investigate the association between training and match loads and injury in elite junior Australian football players over 1 competitive season. Methods: Elite junior Australian football players (n = 290, age 17.7 [0.3] y, range 16–18 y) were recruited from the under-18 state league competition in Victoria to report load and injury information. One-week load (session rating of perceived exertion multiplied by duration) and all time-loss injuries were reported using an online sport-injury surveillance system. Absolute load measures (weekly sums) enabled the calculation of relative measures such as the acute:chronic workload ratio. Load measures were modeled against injury outcome (yes/no) using a generalized estimating equation approach, with a 1-wk lag for injury. Results: Low (<300 arbitrary units [au]) and high (>4650 au) 1-wk loads were associated with significantly higher risk of injury. Furthermore, low (<100 au) and high (>850 au) session loads were associated with a higher risk of injury. High strain values (>13,000) were associated with up to a 5-fold increase in the odds of injury. There was a relatively flat-line association between the acute:chronic workload ratio and injury. Conclusions: This study is the first investigation of elite junior athletes demonstrating linear and nonlinear relationships between absolute and relative load measures and injury. Coaches should focus player loads on, or at least close to, the point at which injury risk starts to increase again (2214 au for 1-wk load and 458 au for session load) and use evidence-based strategies across the week and month to help reduce the risk of injury.
Improved 1000-m Running Performance and Pacing Strategy With Caffeine and Placebo: A Balanced Placebo Design Study
Authors: Hurst Philip , Schipof-Godart Lieke , Hettinga Florentina , Roelands Bart , Beedie Chris
Published: September 2019

Purpose: To investigate the placebo effect of caffeine on pacing strategy and performance over 1000-m running time trials using a balanced placebo design. Methods: Eleven well-trained male middle-distance athletes performed seven 1000-m time trials (1 familiarization, 2 baseline, and 4 experimental). Experimental trials consisted of the administration of 4 randomized treatments: informed caffeine/received caffeine, informed caffeine/received placebo, informed placebo/received caffeine, and informed placebo/received placebo. Split times were recorded at 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 m, and peak heart rate and rating of perceived exertion were recorded at the completion of the trial. Results: Relative to baseline, participants ran faster during informed caffeine/received caffeine (d = 0.42) and informed caffeine/received placebo (d = 0.43). These changes were associated with an increased pace during the first half of the trial. No differences were shown in pacing or performance between baseline and the informed placebo/received caffeine (d = 0.21) and informed placebo/received placebo (d = 0.10). No differences were reported between treatments for peak heart rate (η2 = .084) and rating of perceived exertion (η2 = .009). Conclusions: The results indicate that the effect of believing to have ingested caffeine improved performance to the same magnitude as actually receiving caffeine. These improvements were associated with an increase in pace during the first half of the time trial.
What Dose of Caffeine to Use: Acute Effects of 3 Doses of Caffeine on Muscle Endurance and Strength
Authors: Grgic Jozo , Sabol Filip , Venier Sandro , Mikulic Ivan , Bratkovic Nenad , Schoenfeld Brad J. , Pickering Craig , Bishop David J. , Pedisic Zeljko , Mikulic Pavle
Published: September 2019

Purpose:To explore the effects of 3 doses of caffeine on muscle strength and muscle endurance.Methods:Twenty-eight resistance-trained men completed the testing sessions under 5 conditions: no-placebo control, placebo control, and with caffeine doses of 2, 4, and 6 mg·kg−1. Muscle strength was assessed using the 1-repetition-maximum test; muscle endurance was assessed by having the participants perform a maximal number of repetitions with 60% 1-repetition maximum.Results:In comparison with both control conditions, only a caffeine dose of 2 mg·kg−1enhanced lower-body strength (d = 0.13–0.15). In comparison with the no-placebo control condition, caffeine doses of 4 and 6 mg·kg−1enhanced upper-body strength (d = 0.07–0.09) with a significant linear trend for the effectiveness of different doses of caffeine (P = .020). Compared with both control conditions, all 3 caffeine doses enhanced lower-body muscle endurance (d = 0.46–0.68). For upper-body muscle endurance, this study did not find significant effects of caffeine.Conclusions:This study revealed a linear trend between the dose of caffeine and its effects on upper-body strength. The study found no clear association between the dose of caffeine and the magnitude of its ergogenic effects on lower-body strength and muscle endurance. From a practical standpoint, the magnitude of caffeine’s effects on strength is of questionable relevance. A low dose of caffeine (2 mg·kg−1)—for an 80-kg individual, the dose of caffeine in 1–2 cups of coffee—may produce substantial improvements in lower-body muscle endurance with the magnitude of the effect being similar to that attained using higher doses of caffeine.
Production and Uptake of Distinct Endogenous Catecholate-Type Siderophores Are Required for Iron Acquisition and Virulence in Chromobacterium violaceum
Authors: Batista Bianca Bontempi , Santos Renato Elias Rodrigues de Souza , Ricci-Azevedo Rafael , da Silva Neto José Freire
Published: September 2019

Bacteria use siderophores to scavenge iron from environmental or host sources. The iron acquisition systems of
Chromobacterium violaceum
, a ubiquitous environmental bacterium that can cause infections in humans, are still unknown. In this work, we demonstrated that
C. violaceum
produces putative distinct endogenous siderophores, here named chromobactin and viobactin, and showed that they are each required for iron uptake and virulence.
Small-Molecule Antiviral β-
d
-
N
4
-Hydroxycytidine Inhibits a Proofreading-Intact Coronavirus with a High Genetic Barrier to Resistance
Authors: Agostini Maria L. , Pruijssers Andrea J. , Chappell James D. , Gribble Jennifer , Lu Xiaotao , Andres Erica L. , Bluemling Gregory R. , Lockwood Mark A. , Sheahan Timothy P. , Sims Amy C. , Natchus Michael G. , Saindane Manohar , Kolykhalov Alexander A. , Painter George R. , Baric Ralph S. , Denison Mark R.
Published: September 2019

The emergence of coronaviruses (CoVs) into human populations from animal reservoirs has demonstrated their epidemic capability, pandemic potential, and ability to cause severe disease. However, no antivirals have been approved to treat these infections. Here, we demonstrate the potent antiviral activity of a broad-spectrum ribonucleoside analogue, β-
d
-
N
4
-hydroxycytidine (NHC), against two divergent CoVs. Viral proofreading activity does not markedly impact sensitivity to NHC inhibition, suggesting a novel interaction between a nucleoside analogue inhibitor and the CoV replicase. Further, passage in the presence of NHC generates only low-level resistance, likely due to the accumulation of multiple potentially deleterious transition mutations. Together, these data support a mutagenic mechanism of inhibition by NHC and further support the development of NHC for treatment of CoV infections.
Arachidonic Acid Kills Staphylococcus aureus through a Lipid Peroxidation Mechanism
Authors: Beavers William N. , Monteith Andrew J. , Amarnath Venkataraman , Mernaugh Raymond L. , Roberts L. Jackson , Chazin Walter J. , Davies Sean S. , Skaar Eric P.
Published: September 2019

Despite the ability of the human immune system to generate a plethora of molecules to control
Staphylococcus aureus
infections,
S. aureus
is among the pathogens with the greatest impact on human health. One class of host molecules toxic to
S. aureus
consists of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Here, we investigated the antibacterial properties of arachidonic acid, one of the most abundant polyunsaturated fatty acids in humans, and discovered that the mechanism of toxicity against
S. aureus
proceeds through lipid peroxidation. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which the immune system kills
S. aureus
, and by which
S. aureus
avoids host killing, will enable the optimal design of therapeutics that complement the ability of the vertebrate immune response to eliminate
S. aureus
infections.
Chemoperception of Specific Amino Acids Controls Phytopathogenicity in Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato
Authors: Cerna-Vargas Jean Paul , Santamaría-Hernando Saray , Matilla Miguel A. , Rodríguez-Herva José Juan , Daddaoua Abdelali , Rodríguez-Palenzuela Pablo , Krell Tino , López-Solanilla Emilia
Published: September 2019

There is substantive evidence that chemotaxis is a key requisite for efficient pathogenesis in plant pathogens. However, information regarding particular bacterial chemoreceptors and the specific plant signal that they sense is scarce. Our work shows that the phytopathogenic bacterium
Pseudomonas syringae
pv. tomato mediates not only chemotaxis but also the control of pathogenicity through the perception of the plant abundant amino acids Asp and Glu. We describe the specificity of the perception of
l
- and
d
-Asp and
l
-Glu by the PsPto-PscA chemoreceptor and the involvement of this perception in the regulation of pathogenicity-related traits. Moreover, a saturating concentration of
d
-Asp reduces bacterial virulence, and we therefore propose that ligand-mediated interference of key chemoreceptors may be an alternative strategy to control virulence.
On the Emergence of Cryptococcus gattii in the Pacific Northwest: Ballast Tanks, Tsunamis, and Black Swans
Authors: Engelthaler David M. , Casadevall Arturo
Published: September 2019

The appearance of
Cryptococcus gattii
in the North American Pacific Northwest (PNW) in 1999 was an unexpected and is still an unexplained event. Recent phylogenomic analyses strongly suggest that this pathogenic fungus arrived in the PNW approximately 7 to 9 decades ago. In this paper, we theorize that the ancestors of the PNW
C. gattii
clones arrived in the area by shipborne transport, possibly in contaminated ballast, and established themselves in coastal waters early in the 20th century.
Distinct Drivers of Core and Accessory Components of Soil Microbial Community Functional Diversity under Environmental Changes
Authors: Zhang Ximei , Johnston Eric R. , Wang Yaosheng , Yu Qiang , Tian Dashuan , Wang Zhiping , Zhang Yanqing , Gong Daozhi , Luo Chun , Liu Wei , Yang Junjie , Han Xingguo
Published: September 2019

Our results demonstrated increased ecosystem nitrogen and water content as the primary drivers of the core and accessory components of soil microbial community functional diversity, respectively. Our findings suggested that more attention should be paid to certain components of community functional diversity under specific global change conditions. Our findings also indicated that microbial communities have adapted to nitrogen addition by strengthening the function of ammonia oxidization to deplete the excess nitrogen, thus maintaining ecosystem homeostasis. Because community gene richness is primarily determined by the presence/absence of accessory community genes, our findings further implied that strategies such as maintaining the amount of soil organic matter could be adopted to effectively improve the functional gene diversity of soil microbial communities subject to global change factors.
Metastasis in mixed epithelial stromal tumour of the kidney: a rare presentation
Authors: Holkar Pravin Sambhaji , Jain Tarun , Kavishwar Vikas , Pandya Jayashri Sanjay
Published: September 2019

Mixed epithelial stromal tumour of the kidney (MESTK) is a rare genitourinary tract tumour. MESTK is typically seen in perimenopausal women and rarely reported in men and children. MESTK has been included in the WHO renal tumour classification since 2004. Here, we present a case of 50-year-old female patient who underwent left radical nephrectomy for left renal mass. Postoperative positron emission tomography (PET) scan also showed nodal metastasis, for which, she was started on chemotherapy.
Anterior elbow dislocation without fracture in an adult: a rare injury pattern
Authors: Vijayan Sandeep , Chalappurath Vijayaraghavan , Jose Sudeep , Rao Sharath Kumar
Published: September 2019

Anterior elbow dislocation without periarticular fracture (simple dislocation) is an extremely rare injury and is usually caused by distraction or torsional forces. It is important to look for associated ligamentous and musculotendinous injuries in this pattern. We report an elderly patient who sustained simple anterior dislocation of the elbow and in whom successful closed reduction could be achieved. Reduction by closed method is possible if we know the exact mechanism of elbow injury. Despite the presence of medial collateral ligament injury, he was managed non-operatively and had full functional recovery. Checking for joint stability and collateral ligaments after reduction and getting additional radiological investigations help in better treatment planning. Early protected active mobilisation should be initiated to achieve better functional results.
Streptococcus pyogenesperitonitis: a rare, lethal imitator of appendicitis
Authors: Johnson Matthew , Bartscherer Ashley , Tobin Ellis , Tafen Marcel
Published: September 2019

Streptococcus pyogenesis a common cause of infection. Since 2010, the Centers for Disease Control has noted a 24% rise in invasiveS. pyogenesinfections with a mortality rate of 10%. We present a case series and review of the English literature. Two patients presented with findings concerning for appendicitis, each underwent laparoscopic appendectomies. Both had diffuse peritoneal inflammation without appendicitis, cultures grewS. pyogenesand both recovered with appropriate antibiotics. Thirty cases were identified in a review of the English literature. The average age was 27 years, 75% were in women, 9% were immunocompromised, 15% had rashes and 88% underwent surgical intervention. Previous work identified female gender, immunosuppression and preceding varicella infection as risk factors for invasiveS. pyogenes.Given the similarities to appendicitis, early suspicion can influence antibiotic therapy and possibly improve outcomes.
Simple adrenal cyst masquerading clinically silent giant cystic pheochromocytoma
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Parmar Kalpesh Mahesh , Aggarwal Dharmender , Jhangra Kiran
Published: September 2019

Pheochromocytoma (PCC) may present as a cystic or solid tumour. Cystic PCCs are difficult to differentiate from simple cysts in the absence of classic symptoms of PCCs. Cystic nature develops due to intralesional bleeding and necrosis. We present a case of young man without any comorbidity who was diagnosed as a simple adrenal cyst and planned for laparoscopic excision but found to be functional PCC during the time of surgery only. The patient was managed with extensive monitoring and use of multiple drugs to control blood pressure. Surgery was completed without any complication laparoscopically and postoperative period was also uneventful. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of cystic PCC. Our case also shows the importance of functional imaging like metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan in doubtful cases of adrenal cysts when other biochemical markers are unremarkable to diagnosis. We emphasise the importance of meticulous preparation for any intraoperative disasters even for apparently simple adrenal cyst.
Acute intermittent porphyria: analgesia can be dangerous
Authors: Silva Carlos Dias , Mateus José Eduardo , Teles Carolina , Vaio Teresa
Published: September 2019

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a rare condition, a metabolic disorder of the haem biosynthesis. An acute crisis of AIP can present as a combination of symptoms, such as abdominal pain, autonomic dysfunction, hyponatremia, muscle weakness and neurological symptoms in the absence of others obvious causes. We report the case of a 53-year-old woman, who was previously diagnosed with AIP 5 weeks after therapeutic suspension has developed an acute disease exacerbation. During hospitalisation, further exacerbation has occurred after analgesia with metamizole. Glucose and hemin infusions resulted in slow improvement. Physical rehabilitation was crucial to peripheral polyneuropathy recovery. Taking into account the porphyrinogenic effect described for metamizole, this drug might have triggered the second attack. Clinical history was sufficient to suspect the diagnosis and to start the treatment immediately, preventing important sequelae.
Refractive surprise: twice the SMILE
Authors: Bhutani Garvit , Murthy Somasheila I , Reddy Jagadesh C , Vaddavalli Pravin K
Published: September 2019

A 35-year-old man presented with decreased vision in his left eye following small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery. The refractive error after surgery was nearly twice his preoperative refractive error in the left eye. The patient was diagnosed as having a retained lenticule after SMILE surgery, which was folded on itself and was successfully managed by conversion to a flap. Postoperatively, the patient maintained good uncorrected visual acuity and a low refractive error, with the best spectacle corrected acuity of 20/20.
The Household Water InSecurity Experiences (HWISE) Scale: development and validation of a household water insecurity measure for low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Young Sera L , Boateng Godfred O , Jamaluddine Zeina , Miller Joshua D , Frongillo Edward A , Neilands Torsten B , Collins Shalean M , Wutich Amber , Jepson Wendy E , Stoler Justin
Published: September 2019

Objective

Progress towards equitable and sufficient water has primarily been measured by population-level data on water availability. However, higher-resolution measures of water accessibility, adequacy, reliability and safety (ie, water insecurity) are needed to understand how problems with water impact health and well-being. Therefore, we developed the Household Water InSecurity Experiences (HWISE) Scale to measure household water insecurity in an equivalent way across disparate cultural and ecological settings.

Methods

Cross-sectional surveys were implemented in 8127 households across 28 sites in 23 low-income and middle-income countries. Data collected included 34 items on water insecurity in the prior month; socio-demographics; water acquisition, use and storage; household food insecurity and perceived stress. We retained water insecurity items that were salient and applicable across all sites. We used classical test and item response theories to assess dimensionality, reliability and equivalence. Construct validity was assessed for both individual and pooled sites using random coefficient models.

Findings

Twelve items about experiences of household water insecurity were retained. Items showed unidimensionality in factor analyses and were reliable (Cronbach’s alpha 0.84 to 0.93). The average non-invariance rate was 0.03% (threshold <25%), indicating equivalence of measurement and meaning across sites. Predictive, convergent and discriminant validity were also established.

Conclusions

The HWISE Scale measures universal experiences of household water insecurity across low-income and middle-income countries. Its development ushers in the ability to quantify the prevalence, causes and consequences of household water insecurity, and can contribute an evidence base for clinical, public health and policy recommendations regarding water.
Medical equipment donation in low-resource settings: a review of the literature and guidelines for surgery and anaesthesia in low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Marks Isobel H , Thomas Hannah , Bakhet Marize , Fitzgerald Edward
Published: September 2019

Background

Medical equipment donation to low-resource settings is a frequently used strategy to address existing disparities, but there is a paucity of reported experience and evaluation. Challenges such as infrastructure gaps, lack of technological and maintenance capabilities, and non-prioritisation of essential supplies have previously been highlighted. This pragmatic review summarises existing guidelines and literature relevant to surgical and anaesthesia equipment, with recommendations for future initiatives and research.

Methods

Retrospective literature review including both academic and grey literature from 1980 to 2018. We conducted a narrative synthesis to identify key factors that were condensed thematically.

Results

Thirty-three biomedical equipment donation guidelines were identified from governments, WHO, World Bank, academic colleges and non-governmental organisations, and 36 relevant studies in peer-reviewed literature. These highlighted the need to consider all stages of the donation process, including planning, sourcing, transporting, training, maintaining and evaluating equipment donation. Donors were advised to consult national guidelines to ensure equipment was appropriate, desirable and non-costly to both parties. User training and access to biomechanical engineers were suggested as necessary for long-term sustainability. Finally, equitable partnerships between donors and recipients were integral to reducing inappropriate donations and to improve follow-up and evaluation.

Conclusion

There is a paucity of evidence on the causes of success or failure in medical equipment donation, despite its domination of equipment sourcing across many low-resource settings. Equitable partnerships, consultation of policies and guidelines, and careful planning may improve equipment usability and life span. A concerted effort is required to increase awareness of guidelines among health professionals worldwide.
Generating statistics from health facility data: the state of routine health information systems in Eastern and Southern Africa
Authors: Maïga Abdoulaye , Jiwani Safia S , Mutua Martin Kavao , Porth Tyler Andrew , Taylor Chelsea Maria , Asiki Gershim , Melesse Dessalegn Y , Day Candy , Strong Kathleen L , Faye Cheikh Mbacké , Viswanathan Kavitha , O’Neill Kathryn Patricia , Amouzou Agbessi , Pond Bob S , Boerma Ties
Published: September 2019

Health facility data are a critical source of local and continuous health statistics. Countries have introduced web-based information systems that facilitate data management, analysis, use and visualisation of health facility data. Working with teams of Ministry of Health and country public health institutions analysts from 14 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa, we explored data quality using national-level and subnational-level (mostly district) data for the period 2013–2017. The focus was on endline analysis where reported health facility and other data are compiled, assessed and adjusted for data quality, primarily to inform planning and assessments of progress and performance. The analyses showed that although completeness of reporting was generally high, there were persistent data quality issues that were common across the 14 countries, especially at the subnational level. These included the presence of extreme outliers, lack of consistency of the reported data over time and between indicators (such as vaccination and antenatal care), and challenges related to projected target populations, which are used as denominators in the computation of coverage statistics. Continuous efforts to improve recording and reporting of events by health facilities, systematic examination and reporting of data quality issues, feedback and communication mechanisms between programme managers, care providers and data officers, and transparent corrections and adjustments will be critical to improve the quality of health statistics generated from health facility data.
Impact of the Manchester Glaucoma Enhanced Referral Scheme on NHS costs
Authors: Forbes Hannah , Sutton Matt , Edgar David F , Lawrenson John , Spencer Anne Fiona , Fenerty Cecilia , Harper Robert
Published: September 2019

Objectives

Glaucoma filtering schemes such as the Manchester Glaucoma Enhanced Referral Scheme (GERS) aim to reduce the number of false positive cases referred to Hospital Eye Services. Such schemes can also have wider system benefits, as they may reduce waiting times for other patients. However, previous studies of the cost consequences and wider system benefits of glaucoma filtering schemes are inconclusive. We investigate the cost consequences of the Manchester GERS.

Design

Observational study.

Methods

A cost analysis from the perspective of the National Health Service (NHS) was conducted using audit data from the Manchester GERS.

Results

2405 patients passed through the Manchester GERS from April 2013 to November 2016. 53.3% were not referred on to Manchester Royal Eye Hospital (MREH). Assuming an average of 2.3 outpatient visits to MREH were avoided for each filtered patient, the scheme saved the NHS approximately £2.76 per patient passing through the scheme.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that glaucoma filtering schemes have the potential to reduce false positive referrals and costs to the NHS.
Improving hepatitis C screening and diagnosis in patients born between 1945 and 1965 in a safety-net primary care clinic
Authors: Bakhai Smita , Nallapeta Naren , El-Atoum Mohammad , Arya Tenzin , Reynolds Jessica L
Published: September 2019

Individuals born between 1945–1965 represent 81% of all persons chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the USA and are largely unaware of their positive status. The baseline HCV screening rate in this population in an academic internal medicine clinic at a US hospital was less than 3.0%. The goal was to increase the rate of HCV screening in patients born between 1945 and 1965 to 20% within 24 months. The quality improvement team used the Plan Do Study Act Model. Outcome measures included HCV antibody screening, HCV RNA positive rate and linkage to hepatology care. Process measures included HCV antibody order and completion rates. The quality improvement team performed a root cause analysis and identified barriers for HCV screening and linkage to care. The key elements of interventions included redesigning nursing workflow, use of health information technology and educating patients, physicians and nursing staff about HCV. The HCV screening rate was 30.3% (391/1291) within 24 months. The HCV antibody positive rate was 43.5% (170/391), and HCV RNA positive rate was 95.3% (162/170). HCV infection was diagnosed in 12.5% (162/1291) of patients or 41.4% (162/391) of the screened population. Of those positive, 70% (114/162) were linked to hepatology care within the 24-month project timeframe. Eighty percent of patients seen by a hepatologist were treated with direct-acting antivirals agents. The HCV screening rate was sustained at 25.4% during the post-project 1-year period. Engagement of a multidisciplinary team and education to patients, physicians and nursing staff were the key drivers for success.
Access to paediatric palliative care in children and adolescents with complex chronic conditions: a retrospective hospital-based study in Brussels, Belgium
Authors: Friedel Marie , Gilson Aurélie , Bouckenaere Dominique , Brichard Bénédicte , Fonteyne Christine , Wojcik Thomas , De Clercq Etienne , Guillet Alain , Mahboub Alaa , Lahaye Magali , Aujoulat Isabelle
Published: September 2019

Background

Paediatric complex chronic conditions (CCCs) are life-limiting conditions requiring paediatric palliative care, which, in Belgium, is provided through paediatric liaison teams (PLTs). Like the number of children and adolescents with these conditions in Belgium, their referral to PLTs is unknown.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to identify, over a 5-year period (2010–2014), the number of children and adolescents (0–19 years) living with a CCC, and also their referral to PLTs.

Methods

International Classification of Disease codes (ICD-9) corresponding to a CCC, as described by Feudtneret al, and national registration numbers were extracted from the databases of all hospitals (n=8) and PLTs (n=2) based in the Brussels region. Aggregated data and pseudonymised national registration number were transmitted to the research team by a Trusted Third Party (eHealth). Ages and diagnostic categories were calculated using descriptive statistics.

Results

Over 5 years (2010–2014) in the Brussels region, a total of 22 721 children/adolescents aged 0–19 years were diagnosed with a CCC. Of this number, 22 533 were identified through hospital registries and 572 through PLT registries. By comparing the registries, we found that of the 22 533 children/adolescents admitted to hospital, only 384 (1.7%) were also referred to a PLT.

Conclusion

In Belgium, there may be too few referrals of children and adolescents with CCC to PLTs that ensure continuity of care.
Modeling the evolution of countries and ethnic groups
Authors: Hausken Kjell
Published: September 2019

Two models of population growth, without and with competitive and beneficial interaction between populations, are applied to analyze the evolution of populations and subpopulations relative to the world average. Norway’s population grows less than the world average. Applying the least squares method against the 1970–2018 empirics, the model predicts that Norway’s immigrants grow exponentially, exceeding 50% of Norway’s 2053 population. Other effects may influence the growth dynamics in the near future, causing different outcomes. The logistic interactive model quantifies the beneficial impact of nonimmigrants on immigrants. South Africa’s population grows more than the world average. South Africa’s white population grows mostly convexly, and similarly to the world average during 1950–1975. After a maximum in 1995, approximately zero growth occurs toward 2018. The logistic interactive model estimates increase of the white population toward a maximum, and thereafter slight decrease toward a horizontal asymptote. The model estimates beneficial impact from the white population on South Africa’s nonwhite population, and competitive opposite impact. Zimbabwe’s population also grows more than the world average. Zimbabwe’s white population grows more than the world average during 1950–1975, and thereafter decreases abruptly and asymptotically toward zero. The implication is overall negative growth during 1950–2018. Assuming different parameter values for 1950–1974 and 1975–2018, the logistic interactive model implies better curve fitting due to allowing the two populations to impact each other competitively or beneficially.