bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thatcherism, Crime and the Legacy of the Social and Economic ‘Storms’ of the 1980s
Authors: FARRALL STEPHEN , JENNINGS WILL , GRAY EMILY , HAY COLIN
Published: May 2017

Using insights from the classical sociology of deviance and social structure (notably Durkheim and Merton) we explore the enduring impact of the social and economic changes which started in the UK in the early 1980s. In the two subsequent decades the UK went through a period of radical economic restructuring, leading to lasting social change. We seek to gauge the effect of these combined social and economic processes, which we label social and economic ‘storms’, at the national level. In so doing we assess, and ultimately defend, the heuristic utility of this conceptualisation, considering the extent to which such social and economic storms (individually and collectively) weakened bonds between individuals, within and between families, and across communities. We use proxy measures of economic and social changes in combination with recorded crime statistics to explore the degree to which such processes might be associated with victimisation rates. We find that crime was related to these macro‐level ‘storms’, although ultimately they were driven by economic variables. Our analyses show how political decision making can shape long‐term trends in crime rates.
Nest‐site characteristics, breeding success and competitive interactions between two recently sympatric apex predators
Authors: Friedemann Guilad , Leshem Yossi , Kerem Lior , Bar‐Massada Avi , Izhaki Ido
Published: May 2017

An influential period in avian life‐cycles is the annual breeding season, when competition over suitable nesting sites and territories is a key factor that can determine fitness and distribution, especially for species that are highly selective in their nesting habitats. We analysed nest‐site characteristics, breeding success and competitive interactions between two apex predator populations. Whereas the Short‐toed Eagle Circaetus gallicus has nested in the Judean Foothills (Israel) for a long time, the Long‐legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus has only invaded the nesting habitat of the Short‐toed Eagle during their breeding season in the last two decades. These two recently sympatric species have similar nesting ecology and frequently use the same nests. They are therefore expected to compete over nesting sites and territories. We analysed interspecific interactions between these two species by combining information from comprehensive observational, experimental, GIS analysis and remote sensing data, deriving 65 variables to characterize the nest‐sites used and the breeding success in 381 breeding attempts over four consecutive breeding seasons. To assess interspecific and intraspecific territorial behaviour and aggressiveness, stuffed Long‐legged Buzzards and Short‐toed Eagles were presented close to nests. Nest‐site characteristics overlapped substantially between species, and Long‐legged Buzzards occupied 21% of all Short‐toed Eagle nests. Intraspecific aggression rates among Long‐legged Buzzards were higher than their interspecific aggression rates with Short‐toed Eagles and also higher than intraspecific aggression among Short‐toed Eagles. Long‐legged Buzzard and Short‐toed Eagle breeding densities (1.59 ± 0.11 and 2.96 ± 0.11 pairs per 10 km2, respectively) are likely to be the highest across their respective breeding distributions, with a maximum productivity of 0.96 ± 0.01 and 0.56 ± 0.05 (young fledged/breeding pair) for Long‐legged Buzzard and Short‐toed Eagle, respectively. Intraspecific interactions among both species play an important role in determining their breeding success and the spatial distribution of nesting sites. Our results suggest that interspecific competition over nesting sites and territories between both species, and the potential dominance of Long‐legged Buzzard, has both direct and indirect impacts on the spatial and demographic distribution of Short‐toed Eagles due to the recent establishment of Long‐legged Buzzard territories in the Judean breeding area.
Metaheuristic approaches for IP/MPLS network design
Authors: Risso Claudio , Nesmachnow Sergio , Robledo Franco
Published: May 2017

This work introduces metaheuristic approaches for designing resilient and cost‐effective multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) networks, a technology that is gaining prominent importance since most of the global data traffic is Internet traffic, and most internet protocol (IP) traffic within service provider backbones is being supported upon the IP/MPLS technology. Our approach is innovative because it integrates an overlay network design problem with the effective usage of traffic‐engineering features of this technology. Due to the resulting complexity and a high level of technological detail, we decided to use metaheuristics to find solutions to prospective scenarios for two real‐world applications. The best results were achieved using evolutionary algorithms and GRASP (Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure). The relative improvements for some of these scenarios are outstanding and reveal how using the protection mechanisms provided by newer technologies may advance efficiency standards more than legacy protection schemas.
A branch‐and‐cut algorithm for the Team Orienteering Problem
Authors: Bianchessi Nicola , Mansini Renata , Speranza M. Grazia
Published: May 2017

The Team Orienteering Problem aims at maximizing the total amount of profit collected by a fleet of vehicles while not exceeding a predefined travel time limit on each vehicle. In the last years, several exact methods based on different mathematical formulations were proposed. In this paper, we present a new two‐index formulation with a polynomial number of variables and constraints. This compact formulation, reinforced by connectivity constraints, was solved by means of a branch‐and‐cut algorithm. The total number of instances solved to optimality is 327 of 387 benchmark instances, 26 more than any previous method. Moreover, 24 not previously solved instances were closed to optimality.
Responding to Big Data in the Art Education Classroom: Affordances and Problematics
Authors: Duncum Paul
Published: May 2017

The article raises questions about the use in art education classrooms of social networking sites like Facebook and image sharing sites like YouTube that rely upon the ability of Big Data to aggregate large amounts of data, including data on students. The article also offers suggestions for the responsible use of these sites. Many youth are using these sites as creative platforms and, taking their lead, the author describes his own use of YouTube as a creative tool in his pre‐service classroom. The author argues that most art educational literature that relies upon Big Data sites consider only the affordances and not the problematics involved, specifically issues of privacy and having youth effectively working as unpaid labour for global corporations.
Breastfeeding in the context of domestic violence—a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Finnbogadóttir Hafrún , Thies‐Lagergren Li
Published: May 2017

Aims

To determine the differences in breastfeeding among women who did and did not experience domestic violence during pregnancy and postpartum in a Swedish context. In addition, to identify possible differences regarding breastfeeding between groups with or without a history of violence. Further, determine the relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and symptoms of depression.

Background

History of violence may increase the risk of depression and a decrease in, or cessation of, breastfeeding.

Design

The study has a cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Data were collected prospectively from March 2012 ‐ May 2015. A cohort of 731 mothers answered a questionnaire from a larger project (1.5 years postpartum).

Results

Breastfeeding was reported by 93.7% of participants. Women exposed to domestic violence during pregnancy and/or postpartum (4.5%) were just as likely to breastfeed as women who had not reported exposure to domestic violence. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups with or without a history of violence regarding exclusive breastfeeding. Women reporting several symptoms of depression breastfed exclusively to a lesser extent compared with women who had a few symptoms of depression.

Conclusion

Domestic violence did not influence breastfeeding prevalence or duration. Breastfeeding did not differ in women with or without a history of violence. Symptoms of depression influenced duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Beyond recognizing women who are exposed to violence, it is important to identify and to support pregnant women and new mothers with symptoms of depression as their health and the health of their infants depends on the mothers’ mental well‐being.
Prediction of complex traits: Conciliating genetics and statistics
Authors: Manfredi E. , Tusell L. , Vitezica Z.G.
Published: May 2017

This review focuses on methods used to predict complex traits. Main characteristics of prediction approaches are given: the deterministic or stochastic nature of prediction, the objects of prediction, the sources of information and the main statistical methods. Sources of information discussed are the traditional genealogies and phenotypes, nucleotide sequences, expression data and epigenetics marks. Statistical methods are presented as successive degrees of generalization from the definition of the conditional expectation as the prediction rule, to best linear unbiased prediction, then Bayesian and, recently, machine learning methods, including meta‐methods. We highlight the contributions of Daniel Gianola to this methodological evolution.
Should the Federal Reserve Pay Competitive Interest on Reserves?
Authors: CANZONERI MATTHEW , CUMBY ROBERT , DIBA BEHZAD
Published: May 2017

In 2008, the Federal Reserve began paying interest on reserves. How should the Fed use this new policy instrument? As the Fed reduces its balance sheet, should it continue to satiate reserve demand and pay competitive interest on reserves? Here, we argue that this may be an inefficient use of the new policy instrument. Using a standard Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium model (DSGE), augmented to include a banking sector and an interbank market, our benchmark calibration implies an optimal tax on reserves of about 20 to 40 basis points in the steady state, and a fluctuating tax rate in response to shocks.
Differing intrinsic biological properties between forebrain and spinal oligodendroglial lineage cells
Authors: Horiuchi Makoto , Suzuki‐Horiuchi Yoko , Akiyama Tasuku , Itoh Aki , Pleasure David , Carstens Earl , Itoh Takayuki
Published: May 2017

Differentiation of oligodendroglial progenitor cells (OPCs) into myelinating oligodendrocytes is known to be regulated by the microenvironment where they differentiate. However, current research has not verified whether or not oligodendroglial lineage cells (OLCs) derived from different anatomical regions of the central nervous system (CNS) respond to microenvironmental cues in the same manner. Here, we isolated pure OPCs from rat neonatal forebrain (FB) and spinal cord (SC) and compared their phenotypes in the same in vitro conditions. We found that although FB and SC OLCs responded differently to the same external factors; they were distinct in proliferation response to mitogens, oligodendrocyte phenotype after differentiation, and cytotoxic responses to α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionate‐type glutamate receptor‐mediated excitotoxicity at immature stages of differentiation in a cell‐intrinsic manner. Moreover, transcriptome analysis identified genes differentially expressed between these OPC populations, including those encoding transcription factors (TFs), cell surface molecules, and signaling molecules. Particularly, FB and SC OPCs retained the expression of FB‐ or SC‐specific TFs, such as Foxg1 and Hoxc8, respectively, even after serial passaging in vitro. Given the essential role of these TFs in the regional identities of CNS cells along the rostrocaudal axis, our results suggest that CNS region‐specific gene regulation by these TFs may cause cell‐intrinsic differences in cellular responses between FB and SC OLCs to extracellular molecules. Further understanding of the regional differences among OPC populations will help to improve treatments for demyelination in different CNS regions and to facilitate the development of stem cell‐derived OPCs for cell transplantation therapies for demyelination.

image

Cover Image for this issue: doi. 10.1111/jnc.13809.
Lipid distribution, composition and uptake in bovine articular cartilage studied using Raman micro‐spectrometry and confocal microscopy
Authors: Mansfield Jessica Claire , Winlove C. Peter
Published: May 2017

The distribution and composition of endogenous lipids in articular cartilage and transport of exogenous fatty acids have been investigated on a microscopic scale in fresh bovine articular cartilage. To investigate the distribution and composition of the endogenous lipids, hyperspectral Raman maps were taken of chondrocytes and their surrounding matrix in both the deep and superficial zones. These revealed differences in both lipid distribution and composition between the two zones. Extracellular lipid was observed surrounding the cells in the superficial zone but not in the deep zone. Additionally, intracellular lipid droplets were observed that were larger and more numerous in the deep zone (P = 0.01). The extracellular lipid was primarily free saturated fatty acid, whereas the cellular lipid droplets contained triglycerides with unsaturated fatty acid chains. Fatty acid uptake and transport were investigated by incubating cartilage samples in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing fluorescently labelled palmitate for a range of times and temperatures. After incubation, the palmitate distribution was imaged using confocal microscopy. Palmitate accumulated preferentially in the territorial matrix only in the superficial zone where the concentration was up to 100‐fold greater than that in the bulk matrix (P = 0.001). Palmitate uptake by the chondrocytes in both zones showed differential temperature sensitivity (P = 0.05), which would support the idea that cells take up palmitate by both active and passive mechanisms. The study reveals large differences between chondrocytes in the superficial and deep zones in their lipid content, in their extracellular lipid environment and in their access to exogenous fatty acids.
Evaluation of the skin phototoxicity and photosensitivity of honeybee venom
Authors: Han Sang Mi , Hong In Phyo , Woo Soon Ok , Kim Se Gun , Jang He Rye , Park Kwan Kyu
Published: May 2017

Objective

Bee (Apis mellifera L.) venom (BV) has been used as a cosmetic ingredient owing to its anti‐aging, anti‐inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. The aim of this study was to assess the skin safety of BV.

Methods

For this purpose, skin phototoxicity and sensitization tests were conducted in healthy male Hartley guinea pigs. The animals were divided into three groups (n=5) for the phototoxicity test: G1 (negative control), G2 (BV gel treatment), and G3 (positive control). After specified treatments, the animals were irradiated with ultraviolet A (15 J/cm2). The photosensitivity test was also performed in three groups: G4 (negative control, n=5), G5 (BV gel treatment, n=10), and G6 (positive control, n=5).

Results

Erythema and edema were observed after 24, 48, and 72 hours in the positive control group, but not in the negative control and BV gel groups. Application of BV to the guinea pig skin had no toxic effects on any clinical signs, body weight, or mortality. In addition, it did not evoke a skin reaction in both either the skin phototoxicity and skin photosensitization tests.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that BV has the potential to be developed as a drug ingredient for topical uses.
The Dentoalveolar Prosthesis: A Novel Approach in the Reconstruction of Hard and Soft Tissue Deficiencies
Authors: Doll James K. , Barndt Peter , Grant Gerald
Published: May 2017

A clinical problem commonly encountered by the advanced restorative dentist is a requirement to replace missing teeth and the supporting alveolus in areas adjacent to healthy or manageable dentition. A potential solution could utilize a dentoalveolar prosthesis fabricated on two or more implants in the edentulous area. The implant substructure, or framework, may be cast, milled, or selectively laser melted from a variety of metals. A superstructure, or ceramic overlay incorporating a ceramic or composite resin gingival tissue component, is constructed to fit over the implant substructure and luted to the substructure with resin cement. This implant‐supported fixed dental prosthesis identifies a solution for the replacement of both teeth and supporting alveolar bone. It restores comfort, function, and esthetics to the patient.
Use of High Performance Polymers as Dental Implant Abutments and Frameworks: A Case Series Report
Authors: AL‐Rabab'ah Mohammad , Hamadneh Wala'a , Alsalem Ismail , Khraisat Ameen , Abu Karaky Ashraf
Published: May 2017

Dental implant abutments can be made of different materials including titanium, gold, zirconia, alumina, and polymeric materials. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high performance thermoplastic polymer that can be used as a dental implant abutment material. It has an elastic modulus comparable to bone and can reduce stress shielding. PEEK is a radiolucent material that can allow better radiographic imaging of peri‐implant tissues and can be veneered with composite materials or bonded to ceramics. PEEK is widely used in orthopedic and spinal surgeries, and it possesses mechanical and biological characteristics that encourage its use as dental implant abutments. This article will review the use of PEEK in dentistry and in particular as a dental implant abutment and over implant framework. Clinical reports will be presented to suggest some uses of PEEK materials in implant dentistry.
Risk of hospitalisation after early‐revisit in the emergency department
Authors: Cozzi Giorgio , Ghirardo Sergio , Fiorese Ilaria , Proietti Ilaria , Monasta Lorenzo , Minute Marta , Barbi Egidio , Calligaris Lorenzo
Published: May 2017

Aim

Early‐revisits are frequent in the paediatric emergency department (ED) setting, but few data are available about early‐revisited patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the hospitalisation rate of a population of early‐revisited patients and to detect if an early‐revisited patient was at risk of a more severe disease.

Methods

Between June 2014 and January 2015, we conducted a retrospective cohort study, considering all patients presented to the ED of a tertiary level children's hospital in Italy. We selected all patients who were revisited within 72 h from the initial visit (study cohort), while all other patients accessed in the same period were considered the control cohort. The two cohorts were compared for age, gender, triage category, hospitalisation rate, diagnosis at admission and hospital length of stay.

Results

In the study period, we reviewed 10 750 visits, of which 430 (4%) were unplanned revisits for the same chief complaint within 72 h from the initial visit. Hospitalisation rate of early‐revisited patients was significantly higher compared to control patients (8.4 vs. 2.9%). Hospitalisation rate increases in parallel with the number of revisits, but in many cases, it was not directly related to a worst triage category, neither to a longer hospital length of stay.

Conclusion

Early revisited patients in the ED had a significantly higher risk of hospitalisation, but this risk was only partially related to their clinical conditions.
Systematic review: Early infant feeding practices and the risk of wheat allergy
Authors: Chmielewska Anna , Pieścik‐Lech Małgorzata , Shamir Raanan , Szajewska Hania
Published: May 2017

Aim

Wheat is a common allergen. Early feeding practices (breastfeeding, potentially allergenic foods) might affect the risk of allergy. To systematically evaluate the association between early feeding practices and the risk of wheat allergy and sensitisation.

Methods

Five databases were searched for studies of any design up to July 2015.

Results

We included seven studies (five observational, low to moderate quality, two randomised controlled trials (RCTs), high quality). The results come from observational studies unless stated otherwise. Longer breastfeeding was associated with wheat allergy (two studies, n = 1847) and sensitisation (one study, n = 3781). Evidence for exclusive breastfeeding was contradictory; longer exclusive breastfeeding was associated with either lower (one study, n = 408) or higher (one study, n = 3781) risk of wheat sensitisation. Breastfeeding at gluten introduction did not affect the risk of wheat allergy (two studies, n = 2581). Introducing cereal ≥7 months of age increased the risk of wheat allergy (one study, n = 1612), but results from an RCT (n = 1303) showed no effect. Early introduction of gluten was associated with a reduced risk of wheat sensitisation up to 5 years in one observational study (n = 3781) but not in RCTs (n = 1303).

Conclusions

Based on limited evidence, the influence of breastfeeding and an early exposure to gluten on the risk of wheat allergy remain uncertain. There is no evidence supporting breastfeeding at gluten introduction as modifying the risk. Early introduction of gluten might reduce the risk of sensitisation, but currently, no evidence exists that it affects the risk of wheat allergy.
Transitions between marine and freshwater environments provide new clues about the origins of multicellular plants and algae
Authors: Dittami Simon M. , Heesch Svenja , Olsen Jeanine L. , Collén Jonas
Published: May 2017

Marine–freshwater and freshwater–marine transitions have been key events in the evolution of life, and most major groups of organisms have independently undergone such events at least once in their history. Here, we first compile an inventory of bidirectional freshwater and marine transitions in multicellular photosynthetic eukaryotes. While green and red algae have mastered multiple transitions in both directions, brown algae have colonized freshwater on a maximum of six known occasions, and angiosperms have made the transition to marine environments only two or three times. Next, we review the early evolutionary events leading to the colonization of current habitats. It is commonly assumed that the conquest of land proceeded in a sequence from marine to freshwater habitats. However, recent evidence suggests that early photosynthetic eukaryotes may have arisen in subaerial or freshwater environments and only later colonized marine environments as hypersaline oceans were diluted to the contemporary level. Although this hypothesis remains speculative, it is important to keep these alternative scenarios in mind when interpreting the current habitat distribution of plants and algae. Finally, we discuss the roles of structural and functional adaptations of the cell wall, reactive oxygen species scavengers, osmoregulation, and reproduction. These are central for acclimatization to freshwater or to marine environments. We observe that successful transitions appear to have occurred more frequently in morphologically simple forms and conclude that, in addition to physiological studies of euryhaline species, comparative studies of closely related species fully adapted to one or the other environment are necessary to better understand the adaptive processes.
Small prey species’ behaviour and welfare: implications for veterinary professionals
Authors: McBride E. Anne
Published: May 2017

People have obligations to ensure the welfare of animals under their care. Offences under theUKAnimal Welfare Act are acts, or failures of action, causing unnecessary suffering. Veterinary professionals need to be able to provide current, scientifically based prophylactic advice, and respect the limits of their expertise.

The ethical concept of a life worth living and the Five Freedoms are core to welfare. Behaviour is a central component, both influencing and influenced by physical health. Owners frequently misunderstand the behaviour of small prey mammals and how to meet their needs.

This review provides insight into the physical‐social (external) and the cognitive‐emotional (internal) environments of small prey mammals, contextualised within an evolutionary perspective. This is extrapolated to captivity and practical suggestions given for meeting behavioural freedoms and enhancing client understanding and enjoyment of their animals, thereby improving welfare.
Plant DNA barcodes: Applications today and in the future
Authors: Kress W. John
Published: May 2017

DNA barcodes have provided a new biological tool for organismal biologists to increase their understanding of the natural world. Over the last decade four plant DNA barcode markers, rbcL, matK, trnH‐psbA, and ITS2, have been developed, tested, and used to address basic questions in systematics, ecology, evolutionary biology and conservation, including community assembly, species interaction networks, taxonomic discovery, and assessing priority areas for environmental protection. Forensic investigators have also applied these plant DNA barcodes in the regulatory areas of traffic in endangered species and monitoring commercial products, such as foods and herbal supplements. Major challenges ahead will focus on building the global plant DNA barcode library and adopting genomic sequencing technologies for a more efficient and cost‐effective workflow in applying these genetic identification markers to additional fields of biological and commercial endeavors.
Mummified fruits of Choerospondias nanningensis sp. nov. (Anacardiaceae) from the upper Oligocene of a low latitude site in East Asia
Authors: Fu Qiong‐Yao , Li Long , Jin Jian‐Hua , Liu Xiao‐Yan , Quan Cheng
Published: May 2017

Extant species of Choerospondias (Anacardiaceae) are mainly distributed in the tropical and subtropical areas of East Asia. However, the fossil record indicates that the genus was more widespread in the past, with Cenozoic occurrences in both Europe and Asia. We investigated the pericarp anatomy of well‐preserved mummified fossil fruits of Choerospondias from the upper part of Yongning Formation (late Oligocene) of the Nanning Basin, South China. These fruits are recognized as a new species Choerospondias nanningensis sp. nov. This is the lowest latitude fossil occurrence for the genus, and the first fossil record of this genus from its modern area of distribution (South China), indicating that Choerospondias had spread into its modern area of distribution by the Oligocene. In this study, we also investigated the pericarp anatomical structure of the one extant species of Choerospondias. We found that this genus has an endocarp morphology and anatomy typical of the Spondioideae. This is the first study focusing on the pericarp anatomy of fossil and extant species of Choerospondias simultaneously. This study provides new fossil evidence for further understanding the phylogeny of this genus, and contributes significantly to the knowledge of fruit morphology of the family Anacardiaceae.
A randomized controlled trial: branched‐chain amino acid levels and glucose metabolism in patients with obesity and sleep apnea
Authors: Barceló Antonia , Morell‐Garcia Daniel , Salord Neus , Esquinas Cristina , Pérez Gerardo , Pérez Antonio , Monasterio Carmen , Gasa Merce , Fortuna Ana Maria , Montserrat Josep Maria , Mayos Mercedes
Published: May 2017

There is evidence that changes in branched‐chain amino acid (BCAA) levels may correlate with the efficacy of therapeutic interventions for affecting improvement in metabolic control. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether serum concentrations of BCAAs (leucine, isoleucine, valine) could mediate in insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance after continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A prospective randomized controlled trial of OSA patients with morbid obesity was conducted. Eighty patients were randomized into two groups: 38 received conservative treatment and 42 received CPAP treatment for 12 weeks. Plasma levels of BCAA, glucose tolerance and insulin resistance were evaluated at baseline and after treatment. After treatment, significant decreases of leucine levels were observed in both groups when compared with baseline levels (P < 0.005). With respect to patients with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) had higher baseline levels of isoleucine (78 ± 16 versus 70 ± 13 μmol L−1, P = 0.014) and valine (286 ± 36 versus 268 ± 41 μmol L−1, P = 0.049), respectively. Changes in levels of leucine and isoleucine after treatment were related negatively to changes in fasting plasma glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin values only in the conservative group (P < 0.05). In summary, we found that the treatment with CPAP for 12 weeks caused similar changes in circulating BCAAs concentrations to conservative treatment and a differential metabolic response of CPAP and conservative treatment was observed between the relationship of BCAAs and glucose homeostasis. Additional studies are needed to determine the interplay between branched‐chain amino acids and glucose metabolism in patients with sleep apnea.
Antimicrobial Prescribing in Dogs and Cats in Australia: Results of the Australasian Infectious Disease Advisory Panel Survey
Authors: Hardefeldt L.Y. , Holloway S. , Trott D.J. , Shipstone M. , Barrs V.R. , Malik R. , Burrows M. , Armstrong S. , Browning G.F. , Stevenson M.
Published: May 2017

Background

Investigations of antimicrobial use in companion animals are limited. With the growing recognition of the need for improved antimicrobial stewardship, there is urgent need for more detailed understanding of the patterns of antimicrobial use in this sector.

Objectives

To investigate antimicrobial use for medical and surgical conditions in dogs and cats by Australian veterinarians.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed over 4 months in 2011. Respondents were asked about their choices of antimicrobials for empirical therapy of diseases in dogs and cats, duration of therapy, and selection based on culture and susceptibility testing, for common conditions framed as case scenarios: 11 medical, 2 surgical, and 8 dermatological.

Results

A total of 892 of the 1,029 members of the Australian veterinary profession that completed the survey satisfied the selection criteria. Empirical antimicrobial therapy was more common for acute conditions (76%) than chronic conditions (24%). Overall, the most common antimicrobial classes were potentiated aminopenicillins (36%), fluoroquinolones (15%), first‐ and second‐generation cephalosporins (14%), and tetracyclines (11%). Third‐generation cephalosporins were more frequently used in cats (16%) compared to dogs (2%). Agreement with Australasian Infectious Disease Advisory Panel (AIDAP) guidelines (generated subsequently) was variable ranging from 0 to 69% between conditions.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Choice of antimicrobials by Australian veterinary practitioners was generally appropriate, with relatively low use of drugs of high importance, except for the empirical use of fluoroquinolones in dogs, particularly for otitis externa and 3rd‐generation cephalosporins in cats. Future surveys will determine whether introduction of the 2013AIDAPtherapeutic guidelines has influenced prescribing habits.
The multicomponent antirestriction system of phage P1 is linked to capsid morphogenesis
Authors: Piya Denish , Vara Leonardo , Russell William K. , Young Ry , Gill Jason J.
Published: May 2017

Bacterial Type I restriction‐modification (R‐M) systems present a major barrier to foreign DNA entering the bacterial cell. The temperate phage P1 packages several proteins into the virion that protect the phage DNA from host restriction. Isogenic P1 deletion mutants were used to reconstitute the previously described restriction phenotypes associated with darA and darB. While P1ΔdarA and P1ΔdarB produced the expected phenotypes, deletions of adjacent genes hdf and ddrA also produced darA‐like phenotypes and deletion of ulx produced a darB‐like phenotype, implicating several new proteins of previously unknown function in the P1 dar antirestriction system. Interestingly, disruption of ddrB decreased P1's sensitivity to EcoB and EcoK restriction. Proteomic analysis of purified virions suggests that packaging of antirestriction components into P1 virions follows a distinct pathway that begins with the incorporation of DarA and Hdf and concludes with DarB and Ulx. Electron microscopy analysis showed that hdf and darA mutants also produce abnormally high proportions of virions with aberrant small heads, which suggests Hdf and DarA play a role in capsid morphogenesis. The P1 antirestriction system is more complex than previously realized and is comprised of multiple proteins including DdrA, DdrB, Hdf, and Ulx in addition to DarA and DarB.
Function of bacteriophage G7C esterase tailspike in host cell adsorption
Authors: Prokhorov Nikolai S. , Riccio Cristian , Zdorovenko Evelina L. , Shneider Mikhail M. , Browning Christopher , Knirel Yuriy A. , Leiman Petr G. , Letarov Andrey V.
Published: May 2017

Bacteriophages recognize and bind to their hosts with the help of receptor‐binding proteins (RBPs) that emanate from the phage particle in the form of fibers or tailspikes. RBPs show a great variability in their shapes, sizes, and location on the particle. Some RBPs are known to depolymerize surface polysaccharides of the host while others show no enzymatic activity. Here we report that both RBPs of podovirus G7C – tailspikes gp63.1 and gp66 – are essential for infection of its natural host bacterium E. coli 4s that populates the equine intestinal tract. We characterize the structure and function of gp63.1 and show that unlike any previously described RPB, gp63.1 deacetylates surface polysaccharides of E. coli 4s leaving the backbone of the polysaccharide intact. We demonstrate that gp63.1 and gp66 form a stable complex, in which the N‐terminal part of gp66 serves as an attachment site for gp63.1 and anchors the gp63.1‐gp66 complex to the G7C tail. The esterase domain of gp63.1 as well as domains mediating the gp63.1‐gp66 interaction is widespread among all three families of tailed bacteriophages.
Primula jiugongshanensis sp. nov. (Primulaceae) from China, based on morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: He Xiao , Song Li‐Ya , Wu Yan‐Fei , Liu Jin , Shao Jian‐Wen
Published: May 2017

Primula jiugongshanensis J. W. Shao, a new species from Mt Jiugongshan in Hubei Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species is a biennial glabrous herb with pinnately compound leaves, and affiliated to P. sect. Ranunculoides C. M. Hu. It is distinguished from other species of the section by outer simple leaves ovate, flowers distylous, corolla lobe apex conspicuously emarginate, and lack of bulblets. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of nrDNA internal transcribed spacer sequences (ITS) was conducted and the results also supported the recognition of P. jiugongshanensis as a new species. The species is known from only three separated unprotected populations and is categorized as ‘Endangered’ (EN).
Is parity a risk factor for excessive weight gain during pregnancy and postpartum weight retention? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hill B. , Bergmeier H. , McPhie S. , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz M. , Teede H. , Forster D. , Spiliotis B. E. , Hills A. P. , Skouteris H.
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study was to systematically review and meta‐analyse the associations between parity, pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI), gestational weight gain (GWG) and, when included, postpartum weight retention (PPWR). Papers reporting associations between parity and BMI and/or GWG in adult women were eligible: 2,195 papers were identified, and 41 longitudinal studies were included in the narrative synthesis; 17 studies were included in a meta‐analysis. Findings indicated that parity was associated positively with pre‐pregnancy BMI. In contrast, the role of parity in GWG was less clear; both positive and negative relationships were reported across studies. Parity was not associated directly with PPWR. This pattern of results was supported by our meta‐analysis with the only significant association between parity and pre‐pregnancy BMI. Overall, parity was associated with higher pre‐pregnancy BMI; however, the role of parity in GWG and PPWR remains unclear, and it is likely that its influence is indirect and complex. Further research to better understand the contribution of parity to maternal obesity is warranted.
High food quality of prey lowers its risk of extinction
Authors: Raatz Michael , Gaedke Ursula , Wacker Alexander
Published: May 2017

The mineral and biochemical food quality of prey may limit predator production. This well‐studied direct bottom–up effect is especially prominent for herbivore–plant interactions. Low‐quality prey species, particularly when defended, are generally considered to be less prone to predator‐driven extinction. Undefended high‐quality prey species sustain high predator production thereby potentially increasing their own extinction risk. The food quality of primary producers is highly species‐specific. In communities of competing prey species, predators thus may supplement their diets of low‐quality prey with high‐quality prey, leading to indirect horizontal interactions between prey species of different food quality. We explore how these predator‐mediated indirect interactions affect species coexistence in a general predator–prey model that is parametrized for an experimental algae– rotifer system. To cover a broad range of three essential functional traits that shape many plant–herbivore interactions we consider differences in 1) the food quality of the prey species, 2) their competitive ability for nutrient uptake and 3) their defence against predation. As expected, low food quality of prey can, similarly to defence, provide protection against extinction by predation. Counterintuitively, our simulations demonstrate that being of high food quality also prevents extinction of that prey species and additionally promotes coexistence with a competing, low‐quality prey. The persistence of the high‐quality prey enables a high conversion efficiency and control of the low‐quality prey by the predator and allows for re‐allocation of nutrients to the high‐quality competitor. Our results show that high food quality is not necessarily detrimental for a prey species but instead can protect against extinction and promote species richness and functional biodiversity.
Inflammatory bowel disease caused by primary immunodeficiencies—Clinical presentations, review of literature, and proposal of a rational diagnostic algorithm
Authors: Tegtmeyer Daniel , Seidl Maximilian , Gerner Patrick , Baumann Ulrich , Klemann Christian
Published: May 2017

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis have a multifactorial pathogenesis with complex interactions between polygenetic predispositions and environmental factors. However, IBD can also be caused by monogenic diseases, such as primary immunodeficiencies (PID). Recently, an increasing number of these altogether rare diseases have been described to present often primarily, or solely, as IBD. Early recognition of these conditions enables adaption of therapies and thus directly benefits the course of IBDs. Here, we discuss the different clinical presentations in IBD and characteristic features of patient's history, clinical findings, and diagnostic results indicative for a causative PID. Possible predictors are early onset of disease, necessity of parenteral nutrition, failure to respond to standard immunosuppressive therapy, parental consanguinity, increased susceptibility for infections, certain histopathologic findings, and blood tests that are atypical for classic IBD. We illustrate this with exemplary case studies of IBD due to NEMO deficiency, chronic granulomatous disease, common variable immunodeficiency, CTLA‐4 and LRBA deficiency. Taking these factors into account, we propose a diagnostic pathway to enable early diagnosis of IBD due to PID.
Commentary: Mapping a More Specialized Public Administration
Authors: Moynihan Donald P.
Published: May 2017

Related Content: Ni, Sugimoto, and Robbin (PAR July/August 2017)

Related Content: Berry (PAR July/August 2017)
High‐dose prednisolone after intravenous methylprednisolone improves prognosis of acute exacerbation in idiopathic interstitial pneumonias
Authors: Arai Toru , Tachibana Kazunobu , Sugimoto Chikatoshi , Inoue Yasushi , Tokura Sayoko , Okuma Tomohisa , Akira Masanori , Kitaichi Masanori , Hayashi Seiji , Inoue Yoshikazu
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Acute exacerbation (AE) of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) (AE‐IPF) is a poor prognostic disorder. AE is also reported to occur in other idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs). There are limited data available regarding the effectiveness of treatment for AE‐IIPs. The objective of this study was to clarify the prognostic impact of the initial dose of prednisolone (PSL) for treating AE‐IIPs.

Methods

Eighty‐five patients with AE‐IIPs, diagnosed according to the criteria of the Japanese Respiratory Society, were enrolled in this study (IPF/non‐IPF: 63/22 patients) from 2004 to 2013. We performed multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis to identify poor prognostic factors. HRCT patterns at the onset of AE‐IIPs were classified as diffuse or non‐diffuse. We evaluated the prognostic significance of the initial dose of PSL by adjusting for other prognostic factors.

Results

Median survival time (MST) after AE‐IIPs diagnosis was 49 days. MST of AE‐IPF and AE‐non‐IPF was 39 and 49 days, respectively. A diffuse HRCT pattern, lower serum IgG and higher serum surfactant protein‐D at AE diagnosis, long‐term oxygen therapy (LTOT) before AE and positive pressure ventilation (PPV) use for AE were significant poor prognostic factors for all patients, as were LTOT before AE and lower serum IgG for no‐PPV patients. High‐dose PSL ≥ 0.6 mg/kg was a significant prognostic factor for no‐PPV patients after adjusting for other prognostic factors.

Conclusion

We concluded that a dose of PSL ≥ 0.6 mg/kg after i.v. high‐dose methylprednisolone therapy should be recommended for the treatment of AE‐IIPs.
Book Review: The Foundations of Immunology and their Pertinence to Medicine
Authors: Corthay A.
Published: May 2017

We are in the era cursed with overspecialization. Charles Darwin's foundational Origin of Species, published in 1859, was accessible to the broadly educated individual. Starting with this statement, Peter Bretscher in his new book aimed at explaining foundational concepts of immunology to a broad public. His standpoint is that foundational ideas usually can be simply expressed. This book describes first how foundational concepts of immunology have evolved over the last two and a half centuries. The importance of self–non‐self‐discrimination by the immune system is acknowledged, and models for immunological tolerance are compared. A main focus concerns the understanding of immune class regulation. According to Bretscher's Threshold Hypothesis, a low antigen dose or low degree of foreignness results in Th1 immunity whereas a high antigen dose or high degree of foreignness induces Th2 responses. A novel vaccination strategy is proposed with an ultra‐low number of live, attenuated organisms. It is described in details how this approach may potentially be used to prevent or treat HIV infection, tuberculosis and cancer. The book is very well written in a clear, simple and stimulating style which makes it accessible not only to immunologists but also non‐specialists, teachers, medical students and clinicians. It will convince many that the immune system is not too complex to be understood. By Peter Bretscher. FriesenPress, 2016. 200 pp. ISBN: 978‐1‐4602‐9656‐1.
Labor Market Disparities Between African Americans and Afro Caribbeans: Reexamining the Role of Immigrant Selectivity
Authors: Ifatunji Mosi Adesina
Published: May 2017

Black immigrants from the Caribbean have long attained greater labor market success than African Americans. The most recent studies show that Afro Caribbeans have earnings that are approximately 16% greater than African Americans and that Afro Caribbeans are as much as 21% more likely to be employed than African Americans. The most prominent explanation for greater Afro Caribbean success is that, because they have chosen to migrate, Afro Caribbeans are positively self‐selected on characteristics that are key for success in the U.S. labor market. Proponents of immigrant selectivity argue that migrants have greater levels of both hard and soft skills than nonmigrants. Using data from the National Survey of American Life—the first social survey to provide a nationally representative sample of both African Americans and Afro Caribbeans—this study finds that Afro Caribbeans have greater hard skills than African Americans but split the difference on two measures of soft skills: African Americans and Afro Caribbeans are matched on John Henryism, but African Americans have greater personal mastery than Afro Caribbeans. Contrary to expectations, controlling for differences in hard and soft skills does not provide for a meaningful reduction in labor market disparities between African Americans and Afro Caribbeans.
Custodial Citizenship in the Omnibus Autism Proceeding
Authors: Underman Kelly , Sweet Paige L. , Decoteau Claire Laurier
Published: May 2017

In contemporary processes of citizenship, parents and other caregivers often must make claims to the state on behalf of children with disabilities. In this article, we draw from data on the Omnibus Autism Proceedings (OAP), which were a series of hearings in 2007 and 2008 in which parents of children with autism attempted to receive compensation from a federal program for vaccine injury. During these hearings, parents and their attorneys obfuscated the children's subjectivity and instead showcased the children's physical suffering in order to claim that their children had suffered a legitimate injury from vaccines that warranted compensation. We develop the concept of custodial citizenship to account for the process by which a legible rights‐bearing subject appropriates the bodily suffering of the injured party in order to gain citizenship rights on behalf of that individual. In doing so, we trace the slippages of harm that occur in the lived experience of disability among family members and caregivers, in contrast to the individualizing rights‐granting framework of the court system.
High‐frequency ultrasound quantification of acute radiation dermatitis: pilot study of patients undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer
Authors: Garnier M. , Champeaux E. , Laurent E. , Boehm A. , Briard O. , Wachter T. , Vaillant L. , Patat F. , Bens G. , Machet L.
Published: May 2017

Background

Acute radiation dermatitis (ARD) is a frequent complication after breast cancer radiotherapy and is usually assessed by semi‐quantitative clinical scores, which may be subject to inter‐observer variability. High‐frequency ultrasound imaging of the skin can reliably quantify thickness and edema in diseased skin. We aimed to compare the relative increase in dermal thickness of the irradiated zone in breast‐cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, with clinical severity.

Methods

A consecutive series of patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer by lumpectomy and radiotherapy in a 6‐month period also underwent clinical and ultrasound evaluation of ARD.

Results

We included 34 female patients 17 had grade 1 (group 1), 17 had grade 2 or grade 3 ARD (group 2). The mean relative increase in dermal thickness in irradiated skin (RIDTIS) was greater for group 2 than 1: 0.53 vs 0.29 mm (P=.023). On univariate analysis, ARD was associated with skin phototype, breast volume and RIDTIS, and on multivariable analysis, breast volume and age remained predictive of the disease.

Conclusion

Patients with more severe dermatitis showed significantly increased dermal thickness. Dermal thickness is a quantitative variable that could help quantify the efficacy of drugs and improve the treatment of this disease in patients undergoing radiotherapy.