bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Large Span Timber Dome
Authors: Pirner M. , Náprstek J.
Published: January 2017

The paper is about a dome that consists of 22 laminated timber arches, purlins and cladding. The structure was analyzed numerically and experimentally. Numerical analysis also dealt with geometric non-linearity. The stiffening effect of the cladding was examined by a model test. Before their erection the individual parts of the structure were subjected to load test. The finished structure incorporates instruments for monitoring the frequency of vibrations excited by the ambient factors.
Large Space Structures - Their Implications and Requirements
Authors: Hollaway L. , Thorne A. , Sparry D. , O'neill M. , York D.
Published: January 2017

Over the past twenty years there has been considerable interest in the feasibility of building large structures in space. The impetus for this activity comes from a variety of sources ranging from the desire to establish further advances in space communications and space science to that of establishing the first space station. The paper discusses the requirements for the design criteria and the feasibility of using fibre/matrix composite materials for large double layer skeletal systems in space. It considers the electrical requirements and the implications for a large space antenna as well as the material requirements to achieve the electrical needs. It examines the effects of the hostile environment on the physical properties of the composite as the satellite orbits the earth and travels from low earth orbit to geostationary orbit. It concludes that, generally, composites have many advantages over other materials when used in space.
On the Effective Length of Compression Members in Double-Layer Grids
Authors: Madi Usama R. , El-Tayem Adel A.
Published: January 2017

Attention is focused on the effective length of compression members in double-layer grids. An attempt to account for the end fixity resulting from various types of employed jointing systems and the effect of other members meeting at the same joint is made. A theoretical model for calculating the effective length is presented and is applied to a wide-range of cases. The goal is to suggest using this model for assessing the effective length of compression members in double-layer grids and to make recommendations for various effective length factors for a wide range of practical cases which would then increase the efficiency of designs that are presently based on conservative estimates.
Seismic Modeling of Truss Stiffened Cable Systems
Authors: Cao Zi , Ketter R.L , Jia Zihe , Tao Shicheng
Published: January 2017

Experimental data is presented for models of truss (beam) transversely stiffened cable structures to show the dynamic characteristic and seismic response. Shaking tests were conducted on a 12ft × 12ft five-component table. The natural frequencies of models were tested under the white noise acceleration excitation. To measure the deflections and dynamic cable forces the models were subjected to vertical and horizontal Il-Centro earthquake. Good agreement is obtained between the experimental results and analytical study by using a nonlinear computer program. The influence of various parameters, such as the flexual rigidity of truss (beam), are also discussed.
Dynamic Member Failure in Trusses by Pseudo-Force Method
Authors: Malla Ramesh B. , Wang Baihai , Nalluri Butchi B.
Published: January 2017

The paper presents a systematic technique based on “pseudo-force” concept to determine dynamic response of truss structures during sudden progressive member failure. Emphasis has been given to the dynamic nature of the member failure and effects of such dynamic member failure on the overall structural behaviour. Responses of two-dimensional cantilever truss and a three-dimensional, corner supported, double-layer grid truss structure were investigated during sudden failure of some compressive members. In the method the sudden reduction in the load carrying capacity of a member is represented by external forces applied suddenly at the end joints of the member. Results obtained delineate the dynamic effects of member failure on joint displacements and member forces/stresses. In the present study the method is established for linear analysis. However, the pseudo-force approach can be extended for non-linear analysis and to represent the member snap-through and dynamic jump due to inelastic member buckling/post buckling in a truss-type structure.
Papers Endorse Incumbents Four-to-One over Challengers
Authors: Harmon Mark D.
Published: January 2017

Non-presidential candidates in 20 papers in 2002, 2004 and 2006 were analyzed. In addition to favoring incumbents, they endorsed candidates slightly more conservative than congressional averages.
Use of Rich Media Differs at Newspaper, TV Web Sites
Authors: Huang Edgar
Published: January 2017

This comparison shows top media sites in top markets have adopted rich media at a high rate. Yet, the overall sample shows newspapers lag behind television in some smaller markets.
Print News Uses More Source Diversity than Does Broadcast
Authors: Watts Richard , Maddison Jonathan
Published: January 2017

An analysis of news stories from three types of news media on both local and statewide levels found that the local print newspaper included a greater diversity of sources and was more likely to quote unaffiliated citizens in the debate, for example, over the future of a nuclear power plant.
Commentary: Information Age Methods in a New Reporting Model
Authors: Ward Jean , Hansen Kathleen A.
Published: January 2017

As data base searching capability is added in newsrooms, new issues arise about management decisions, authority in reporting and newsmaking theories. Journalists and librarians are seen as having similar relationships to the information universe and to their audiences/patrons. Here a search strategy model depicts an information-acquisition method applicable both to reporters and librarians. Research and management questions related to new reporting methods are identified.
Replication of a Study on Uses and Gratifications for Weekday and Sunday Readers
Authors: Towers Wayne M.
Published: January 2017

To replicate a study of a newpaper readership and uses and gratifications statements, a parallel random sample from the same market was interviewed using the same questions. Statistical analysis of the original study's insights indicated that the expected three descriptive explanations could be reduced to two groupings: informational variables including surveillance and interaction, and entertainment variables that emphasized diversion. In terms of readership, the study affirmed the importance of subcriber opinions that newspapers give them sufficiently immediate knowledge of big news events.
Ducking the Diversity Issue
Authors: Pease Ted
Published: January 2017

Perhaps we've paid too much attention to issues of hiring minorities and diversifying newsrooms, avoidng the tougher questions of content, coverage and newspapers' role in a pluralistic society. After each annual newsroom nose-count is completed, where do newspapers stand on issues of performance?
Minorities in Media Imagery
Authors: Gist Marilyn E.
Published: January 2017

Lack of opportunity for minorities in newsrooms and on the pages of our newspapers produces a ripple effect as we “learn” what we can – and cannot – expect of ourselves and others. Psychological theory offers some indication of the effects of media images of members of society and on the society at large.
Small Town CEOs' Views on Newspaper Coverage
Authors: Kanervo David , Kanervo Ellen
Published: January 2017

Political leaders have mixed views on the performance of their communities' newspaper. While they are ambivalent on how critical coverage should be, they are relatively happy with it.
Impact of State Shield Laws on Investigative Reporting
Authors: Wirth Eileen M.
Published: January 2017

Editors of papers in states with shield laws report more investigative reporting and more awards for investigative reporting than editors in states without shield laws.
Media Use and Voter Turnout in a Presidential Election
Authors: Simon James
Published: January 2017

This study suggests that newspaper use is related to likelihood that a person will vote. The use of television, radio and magazines, on the other hand, is not linked to voting.
Improving the antenatal and post-partum management of women presenting to Sexual Health Services with positive syphilis serology through audit
Authors: Munro Christina H , Henniker-Major Ruth , Homfray Virginia , Browne Rita
Published: January 2017

The incidence of congenital syphilis remains low in the UK, but the morbidity and mortality to babies born to women who are untreated for the condition make testing for the disease antenatally one of the most cost-effective screening programmes. Women attending North Middlesex Hospital, UK with a positive syphilis test at their antenatal booking visit are referred to St Ann’s Sexual Health Clinic, London, for management and contact tracing. We were concerned that our initial audit revealed that a large proportion of women referred to our service never attended and recorded partner notification was poor. Following the implementation of recommendations, specifically the introduction of an electronic referral system, re-audit showed an improvement in attendance, contact tracing, documentation and communication.
Role of blade rotational angle on energy performance and pressure fluctuation of a mixed-flow pump
Authors: Lei Tan , Zhiyi Yu , Yun Xu , Yabin Liu , Shuliang Cao
Published: January 2017

The role of blade rotational angle in the energy performance and pressure fluctuation of a mixed-flow pump is investigated through an experimental measurement and numerical simulation. The mixed-flow pump head increases at a blade rotational angle of 4° and decreases at a blade rotational angle of −4° compared with a blade rotational angle of 0°. Meanwhile, the highest efficiency decreases by 0.3% at a blade rotational angle of 4° and increases by 0.8% at a blade rotational angle of −4°. The pressure fluctuation characteristics in the mixed-flow pump at different blade rotational angles are also revealed. The dominant frequencies of pressure fluctuations in the impeller are the axis rotation frequency or six times this frequency corresponding to six guide vanes. The dominant frequencies of pressure fluctuations at the middle plane of impeller and guide vane are the blade-passing frequencies or twice this frequency. The maximum amplitude of pressure fluctuation in the impeller at a blade rotational angle of −4° is greater than that of blade rotational angle 0° and 4° because of strong vortex intensity. The maximum amplitude of pressure fluctuation at the middle span of the impeller and vane occurs at a blade rotational angle of 4° because of the largest pressure gradient.
Systemic lupus erythematosus and risk of preterm birth: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Wei S , Lai K , Yang Z , Zeng K
Published: January 2017

We performed a meta-analysis to identify the association between systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and preterm birth. In this study, we studied the effects of SLE, SLE disease activity, a history of nephritis and active nephritis on preterm birth. Searches were conducted before 20 May 2016 of PubMed, Embase, Medline and Cochrane Library of literature and article reference lists. Eleven observational case–control studies and thirteen cohort studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled relative risk (RR) for the risk of preterm birth in SLE patients versus controls was 2.05 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.72–3.32); for active SLE patients versus inactive was 2.98 (95% CI: 2.32–3.83); for SLE patients with a history of lupus nephritis versus those without nephritis it was 1.62 (95% CI: 1.35–1.95); and for SLE patients with active nephritis versus those with quiescent nephritis it was 1.78 (95% CI: 1.17–2.70). In summary, this study identified a significant association in the above results. This association was more significant in active SLE patients versus inactive. With respect to SLE itself, active inflammation (such as disease activity) may be more hazardous for the management of the pregnancy. This suggests that it is essential to control disease activity in order to achieve a better outcome of SLE pregnancy.
‘The Tsar Gave the Order and the Boyars Assented’
Authors: Nolte Hans-Heinrich
Published: January 2017

It is argued that the political institutions of Muscovite Russia (Tsarstvo, adequately translated as kingdom in the early-modern times)—the meeting of the sobor (land) with its three voting bodies and the council of boyars (Duma) on the level of the Tsardom of Russia. As a whole, they were instruments of finding consensus between the Tsar and the powerful and rich groups of the ‘country’ (Zemlja) such as Church, nobility and big merchants. On the local level, autonomy and cooperation with the center in Moscow was established in the self-government (Mir) of villages and town-quarters (Sloboda), which also organised tax raising and other services for the government as quartering troops. Institutions of local law-enforcement (Guba) cooperated with the Ministry for law enforcement (razbojnik prikaz) in Moscow. Peter I (in the French way, by not convoking the sobor, ending the boyars’ council and founding new institutions in a new capital) established absolutism and Empire in Russia. As Putin said, ‘Historiography should neither date that change back nor render an image of Russia as immobile and centralistic by nature nor idealize the pre-Petrine system rendering an image of a ‘real Russia’ back in times.’
Effect of ohmic heating processing conditions on color stability of fungal pigments
Authors: Aguilar-Machado Diederich , Morales-Oyervides Lourdes , Contreras-Esquivel Juan C , Aguilar Cristóbal , Méndez-Zavala Alejandro , Raso Javier , Montañez Julio
Published: January 2017

The aim of this work was to analyze the effect of ohmic heating processing conditions on the color stability of a red pigment extract produced by Penicillium purpurogenum GH2 suspended in a buffer solution (pH 6) and in a beverage model system (pH 4). Color stability of pigmented extract was evaluated in the range of 60–90 ℃. The degradation pattern of pigments was well described by the first-order (fractional conversion) and Bigelow model. Degradation rate constants ranged between 0.009 and 0.088 min−1 in systems evaluated. Significant differences in the rate constant values of the ohmic heating-treated samples in comparison with conventional thermal treatment suggested a possible effect of the oscillating electric field generated during ohmic heating. The thermodynamic analysis also indicated differences in the color degradation mechanism during ohmic heating specifically when the pigment was suspended in the beverage model system. In general, red pigments produced by P. purpurogenum GH2 presented good thermal stability under the range of the evaluated experimental conditions, showing potential future applications in pasteurized food matrices using ohmic heating treatment.
In-plane response of unreinforced masonry walls confined by reinforced concrete tie-columns and tie-beams
Authors: Amouzadeh Tabrizi Masoud , Soltani Masoud
Published: January 2017

This article focuses on the experimental and analytical investigations of masonry walls surrounded by tie-elements under in-plane loads. The experimental results of an unconfined and a confined masonry wall, tested under reversed cyclic lateral loads, are presented. For numerical study, a micro-modeling strategy, using smeared-crack-based approach, is adopted. In order to validate the numerical approach, experimental test results and data obtained from the literature are used, and through a systematic parametric study, the influence of adjoining walls and number of tie-columns on the seismic behavior of confined masonry panels is numerically assessed and a simple but rational method for predicting the nonlinear behavior of these structures is proposed.
Dworkin’s subjects: Interpellation and the politics of heterosexuality
Authors: Cameron Jessica Joy
Published: January 2017

This article provides a critical rereading of Andrea Dworkin’s infamous text Intercourse. I use Judith Butler’s post-structural theory to contest the common view that Dworkin forwards an immutable position on heterosexual intercourse. Instead, I argue that she identifies a particularly pernicious discourse used to represent vaginal penetration – the discourse of intercourse-as-violation. This discourse is important for feminists to consider because the codification of sex acts affects the codification of gendered social actors. The article continues to explore how Dworkin’s text positions readers as gendered subjects in order to better understand why her work is seldom given careful contemplation. When read as positing an essentialist position on heterosex, heterosexed male readers are brought into social being as perpetrators of sexual violation while female readers are positioned as morally superior victims. This distasteful position is quickly rejected as readers form affective attachments to her work based in disindentification.
Making a choice or taking a stand? Choice feminism, political engagement and the contemporary feminist movement
Authors: Thwaites Rachel
Published: January 2017

Choice feminism is a popular form of contemporary feminism, encouraging women to embrace the opportunities they have in life and to see the choices they make as justified and always politically acceptable. Though this kind of feminism appears at first glance to be tolerant and inspiring, its narratives also bring about a political stagnation as discussion, debate and critical judgement of the actions of others are discouraged in the face of being deemed unsupportive and a ‘bad’ feminist. Choice feminism also encourages neoliberal values of individualism and consumerism, while downplaying the need for political and collective action against systematic inequalities. Yet in order to succeed in creating change for women, debate needs to occur, and not all decisions can be supported if they act to further inequality and a patriarchal status quo. In this article, I would like to argue for the continued need to engage politically with other feminists and with the status of the movement as a whole, by critiquing choice feminism and looking empirically at how discussion and dissent can be silenced by the choice narrative. The empirical data in this article will focus on online discussions of naming on marriage to illustrate the wider theoretical argument.
Femmebodiment: Notes on queer feminine shapes of vulnerability
Authors: Dahl Ulrika
Published: January 2017

In a time when worlds, communities and subjects are increasingly presented as ‘vulnerable’, much remains to be said about the distinctly feminine shapes of ‘vulnerability’; weakness, softness, permeability, a sense of being affected, imprinted upon, or entered and shattered. While this presumed vulnerability of the feminine body has often been the basis of feminist sexual politics, feminist goals of autonomy often presume an internal and external undoing of vulnerability as such. Drawing on ethnographic research with queer femmes and building on Sara Ahmed’s (2004a) idea that vulnerability is a ‘particular kind of bodily relation to the world’, this experimental article challenges the popularised idea that to queer femininity requires action, intention, agency and strength. Extending the work of femme authors Dorothy Allison and Ann Cvetkovich, the article considers the cracks in such femme politics, and focuses on how femme feelings of vulnerability take shape and figure in movements, and become what sticks between femme bodies of flesh and knowledge. Attending to the sensuous canvas of skin, to high-heeled movement and desire for both sex and sisterhood, these are notes on the work of affect in what is here called femmebodiment towards a somatechnical understanding of femininity.
Stranger Than Fiction? The Jennens Inheritance in Fact and Fiction Part 1: The Jennens Fortune in the Courts
Authors: Polden Patrick
Published: January 2017

Jarndyce v Jarndyce, the great lawsuit created by Charles Dickens in Bleak House, published in serial form in 1852–3, as a microcosm of all the manifold evils of the Court of Chancery, so permeated the popular consciousness that it seems rather to belong among the Leading Cases so fruitfully explored by Brian Simpson than in the pages of A.P. Herbert's fictional Misleading Cases.1 Since it has often been said to have been based upon one or two real cases, particularly the ‘Jennens Case’, this article began as an attempt to compare the real with the fictional case—to see how far Jennens was indeed ‘the real Jarndyce v Jarndyce’.2

What emerged from that examination, however, was not only a much more complicated story, and a cautionary tale about too ready an acceptance of real models for fictional events, but one which throws light on a seldom explored species of legal proceeding, which had an international dimension, and the ways it was promoted and financed.

It also highlights the acute difficulties experienced by claimants and their adversaries in furnishing legally admissible and conclusive evidence of identities and relationships before the implementation of the Marriage Act 1836 and the Registration Act 1837. Gaps and defects in the older sources encouraged the pursuit of optimistic claims and ensured that, in those cases which reached the courts, their resolution would be lengthy, costly and not always satisfactory. And when the law deployed the blunt instrument of limitation periods to curtail proceedings, that in turn led the more determined claimants to muddy the waters with allegations of fraud.
Knowledge of peripheral arterial disease: Results of an intervention to measure and improve PAD knowledge in Toronto
Authors: El Morr Christo , AlHamzah Musaad , Ng Peggy , Purewal Amber , Al-Omran Mohammed
Published: January 2017

Background

Prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) has dramatically increased in both developing, as well as developed countries. However, significant knowledge and practice gaps persist. In Canada, efforts to improve this knowledge level are lacking. In this study, we examine PAD knowledge in Toronto, and evaluate a pilot intervention to address the knowledge gaps.

Objectives

Measure PAD awareness in Toronto, and evaluate an intervention to improve PAD knowledge among the public.

Methods

In the context of a community-based awareness campaign, an interview-based survey was used to assess the PAD awareness among general public. A sample of participants was split into two arms: control (survey only) and intervention (survey and education pamphlet), the choice between assigning the site as case or control was random. A follow-up telephone and email-based survey was conducted after 6 weeks to assess the attained knowledge level of PAD.

Results

Two hundred thirty-seven participants completed the baseline survey. One hundred eighty-eight participants (78.7%) had never heard of PAD. The remaining “PAD-aware” cohort had low overall knowledge of the disease characteristics. Participants from each arm completed the follow-up survey. The level of education, age, and gender were not predictors of knowledge scores; however, age was a predictor of PAD awareness, while gender and level of education were not. Participants in the intervention group showed significant knowledge scores improvement in five PAD domains, while those from control group showed significant improvement in their preventative measures, treatment modalities, and total scores. The impact of the study intervention on average scores was borderline not significant ( p = 0.05).

Conclusion

PAD knowledge gap in the Canadian public is larger than what was previously reported. Educational campaigns are necessary to address this gap and improve the outcome of PAD patients through patients' activation. Our results are encouraging and warrant a next intervention to explore an educational program impact on PAD knowledge.
Benefits of ICT Adoption and Use in Regional General Medical Practices: A Pilot Study
Authors: MacGregor Rob , Hyland Peter , Harvie Charles , Lee Boon-Chye , Dalley Andrew , Ramu Sangeetha
Published: January 2017

This paper presents a pilot study of benefits derived from information and communications technology (ICT) adoption and use in medical practices in regional Australia. The study involved 122 regional medical practitioners. The results show that like the more general small business sector, the perception of certain benefits is associated with the size of the practice (in terms of employee levels) and/or the gender of the respondent practitioner. The data also showed that the level of skill of certain software used within the practice was significantly associated with the level of perceived benefit derived from ICT adoption and use.
Preface to The Human Perspective in Sociology: The Methodology of Participant Observation
Authors: Whyte William Foote , Bruyn Severyn T.
Published: January 2017

William Foote Whyte wrote this Preface for a new edition of my book The Human Perspective in Sociology: The Methodology of Participant Observation that was never published. Whyte died in July 2000, after he had written the Preface, but it was never published. I had signed a contract with a publisher but there were financial problems that led suddenly and unexpectedly to the demise of the company.

Bill was concerned about the growing emphasis on computer skills and the quantification of data. He saw the trend challenging the integrity, methodology, and basic purpose of the profession. He called for a new emphasis on qualitative studies and participant observation. In his long career he taught and practiced fieldwork so admirably, so perfectly, that he was a model for other sociologists. Indeed, he was my inspiration.
Digging Out of Trouble Public Archaeology as Rehabilitation for Juvenile Delinquents
Authors: Lee James Daniel , Carr Philip J. , Bruch Tiffanie N.
Published: January 2017

This article reports an evaluation of an archaeology project carried out by the University of South Alabama (USA) Center for Archaeological Studies to complement an Intensive Aftercare Program for juvenile delinquents in Mobile, Alabama. The project was an eight-week field school for 14 adjudicated youth. The goals of the project were to teach archaeology, provide job skills, improve pro-social attitudes of delinquents, improve delinquents' attitudes toward their local community, and reduce recidivism among delinquents. The evaluation was completed using a mixed methods approach including pre- and post-project questionnaires, weekly evaluations, comparisons with a matched sample, observations, and focus groups with staff. Findings are that students learned archaeology and formed positive relations with staff. There is no evidence that pro-social attitudes, ties to the community, or recidivism were altered. The quality of archaeology performed by the participants was high and the project beneficial to the Center. Such programs promise to be valuable components of juvenile intervention programs, adding education and job skills opportunities, but should not be expected to work as stand-alone interventions.
Recurring Criminal Scripts: The Routinization of Cases Involving the Murder of a Child
Authors: Forsyth Craig J.
Published: January 2017

This paper uses the experiences of a sociologist as an expert mitigation witness in capital murder cases that involved the death of a child. The common themes (scripts) in these cases are explored. The paper then explains why these scripts are important in mitigation work. Finally, the paper fits this research into the previous sociological literature on routines, typifications, and their function in organizations/professions handling large numbers of like clients.
Efficacy and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of NRT Patches vs. Once-Daily Bupropion SR: A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Johnson Catherine D , LucasArticl Linda M , Uchishiba Mari A
Published: January 2017

Background:

Many studies have shown that smoking cessation is cost-effective; however, there have been no pharmacoeconomic trials directly comparing nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) with bupropion SR, the current mainstays of pharmacologic therapy for nicotine dependence.

Objective:

To evaluate and compare clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness of either NRT or once-daily bupropion SR using patient-reported continuous six-month quit rates and pharmacoeconomic evaluation.

Methods:

Retrospective data on six-month abstinence rates were obtained on 287 Veterans Affairs people who enrolled in our smoking cessation programs from August 1997 to May 1998. These subjects received either NRT patches or once-daily bupropion SR along with counseling on behavioral modification. Quit rates were calculated to compare the efficacy of NRT versus once-daily bupropion SR. Pharmacoeconomic cost analysis data were calculated to determine actual and guideline cost of each medication group. The costs of success and failure of both NRT patches and bupropion SR were also determined.

Results:

Six-month quit rates were not significantly different in NRT patches versus bupropion SR groups (27.7% vs. 31%; p > 0.702). Pharmacoeconomic analysis revealed that overall cost of therapy was $158 for medication/patient receiving NRT versus $67/patient taking bupropion SR. Actual cost of success for NRT was $140/patient compared with $199/patient if doses matched guideline recommendations. Actual cost of failure for NRT was $166/patient compared with $138/patient if guideline doses were used. Patients who successfully quit smoking with NRT used pharmacologic treatment for approximately three weeks less than the guideline time period; patients who failed with NRT used therapy about 10 days longer than the guideline time. Actual cost of success for bupropion SR was $74/patient compared with $42/patient if guideline doses were used. Cost of failure with bupropion SR was $63/patient compared with $32/patient if guidelines were followed. Patients successful with bupropion SR used the treatment six weeks longer than our guideline, while patients who failed on bupropion SR used the therapy eight weeks beyond the guideline.

Conclusions:

NRT and bupropion SR were equally efficacious; however, bupropion SR was more cost-effective than NRT. Increasing the duration of therapy with NRT beyond our guideline period increased the cost of failure.
Susceptibility Patterns of Select Gram-Negative Organisms after a Formulary Switch from Ceftazidime to Cefepime
Authors: Hamm Lori L , Volles David F , Sawyer Robert G , Hazen Kevin C
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To document changes in susceptibility patterns of gram-negative organisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, and Serratia marcescens after a formulary switch from ceftazidime to cefepime.

Design, Setting:

Retrospective, observational study in a tertiary care, university teaching hospital.

Participants:

Adult surgical patients with culture and susceptibility data.

Main Outcome Measures:

Percent susceptible and median minimum inhibitory concentration values were evaluated for select gram-negative organisms from culture and susceptibility results. The time periods of one year before and two years after the formulary change were evaluated. Duplicate isolates were excluded. Different culture sites of infection were assessed for P. aeruginosa, including blood, urine, and lung.

Results:

A total of 957 samples from 489 patients were included. Susceptibility results after the formulary switch favored ceftazidime over cefepime for P. aeruginosa (79% vs. 54%; n = 485) and A. calcoaceticus (65% vs. 29%; n = 140). However, cefepime demonstrated greater kill rate with E. aerogenes isolates compared with ceftazidime (95% vs. 69%; n = 208). Susceptibility results were comparable with S. marcescens (100% for cefepime vs. 98% for ceftazidime). P. aeruginosa results from isolates taken from different culture sites did not differ from the overall results, as susceptibility was higher for ceftazidime compared with cefepime for all culture sites.

Conclusions:

Susceptibility to cefepime and ceftazidime is organism-specific; therefore, it may be appropriate to include both agents on the formulary and/or implement an antibiotic rotation policy.
Use of Etidronate in the Treatment of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Davis Steven M. , Brown Timothy R.
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To discuss the use of etidronate, a biphosphonate, in the treatment of women with postmenopausal osteoporosis and to determine its place in therapy when compared with conventional therapies.

Data Sources:

A MEDLINE search was conducted for clinical trials and review articles on biphosphonates in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Study Selection:

Six clinical trials and four review articles were selected because they dealt specifically with a biphosphonate in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Data Synthesis:

The studies provide a look at how the treatment evolved from continuous etidronate therapy to the more accepted intermittent cyclic therapy. The studies showed an increase in bone mass and a decrease in vertebral fractures in women receiving cyclic therapy with etidronate compared with those receiving placebo. In one study, however, a follow-up report one year later revealed that women taking etidronate experienced a 50 percent increase in vertebral fracture rate compared with those receiving placebo. This was a complete reversal from the data collected over the first two years of the study. This follow-up study is useful to point out a major potential concern associated with long-term use of etidronate—that etidronate therapy may cause mineralization defects, which could lead to alterations in bone integrity.

Conclusions:

Etidronate therapy has shown benefit in preserving bone in postmenopausal women. Comparative trials with conventional therapies such as estrogens have not been completed, which makes it difficult to determine etidronate's place in therapy. Long-term trials also are necessary to assess etidronate's potential to cause mineralization defects.
Vancomycin and Rifampin: A Synergistic Approach to the Eradication of a Staphylococcus Haemolyticus Bacteremia
Authors: Lohr Bruce C. , Mastoridis Paul , Cerra Frank B.
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To report a case of Staphylococcus haemolyticus bacteremia that appeared unresponsive to vancomycin therapy alone but was successfully treated with the addition of rifampin therapy.

Setting:

Public, university, teaching hospital (University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinic, Minneapolis).

Case Summary:

A man with a history of bladder cancer developed S. haemolyticus bacteremia postoperatively that was unresponsive to vancomycin alone. The addition of oral rifampin to the vancomycin regimen provided a synergistic effect (serum inhibitory titer and serum bactericidal titer both ⩾ 1:64). The 5. haemolyticus was eradicated as judged by negative blood cultures for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus and clinical recovery.

Conclusions:

In the treatment of an S. haemolyticus bacteremia, the addition of rifampin to vancomycin therapy was effective in eliminating the organism.
Integrin suppresses neurogenesis and regulates brain tissue assembly in planarian regeneration
Authors: Bonar Nicolle A. , Petersen Christian P.
Published: January 2017

Animals capable of adult regeneration require specific signaling to control injury-induced cell proliferation, specification and patterning, but comparatively little is known about how the regeneration blastema assembles differentiating cells into well-structured functional tissues. Using the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea as a model, we identify β1-integrin as a critical regulator of blastema architecture. β1-integrin(RNAi) animals formed small head blastemas with severe tissue disorganization, including ectopic neural spheroids containing differentiated neurons normally found in distinct organs. By mimicking aspects of normal brain architecture but lacking normal cell-type regionalization, these spheroids bore a resemblance to mammalian tissue organoids synthesized in vitro. We identified one of four planarian integrin-alpha subunits whose inhibition phenocopied these effects, suggesting a specific receptor controls brain organization through regeneration. Neoblast stem cells and progenitor cells were mislocalized in β1-integrin(RNAi) animals without significantly altered body-wide patterning. Furthermore, tissue disorganization phenotypes were most pronounced in animals undergoing brain regeneration and not homeostatic maintenance or regeneration-induced remodeling of the brain. These results suggest that integrin signaling ensures proper progenitor recruitment after injury, enabling the generation of large-scale tissue organization within the regeneration blastema.
Regulatory logic driving stable levels of defective proventriculus expression during terminal photoreceptor specification in flies
Authors: Yan Jenny , Anderson Caitlin , Viets Kayla , Tran Sang , Goldberg Gregory , Small Stephen , Johnston Robert J.
Published: January 2017

How differential levels of gene expression are controlled in post-mitotic neurons is poorly understood. In the Drosophila retina, expression of the transcription factor Defective Proventriculus (Dve) at distinct cell-type-specific levels is required for terminal differentiation of color- and motion-detecting photoreceptors. Here, we find that the activities of two cis-regulatory enhancers are coordinated to drive dve expression in the fly eye. Three transcription factors act on these enhancers to determine cell-type-specificity. Negative autoregulation by Dve maintains expression from each enhancer at distinct homeostatic levels. One enhancer acts as an inducible backup (“dark” shadow enhancer) that is normally repressed but becomes active in the absence of the other enhancer. Thus, two enhancers integrate combinatorial transcription factor input, feedback, and redundancy to generate cell-type specific levels of dve expression and stable photoreceptor fate. This regulatory logic may represent a general paradigm for how precise levels of gene expression are established and maintained in post-mitotic neurons.
Genetic, physiological and comparative genomic studies of hypertension and insulin resistance in the spontaneously hypertensive rat
Authors: Coan Philip M. , Hummel Oliver , Diaz Ana Isabel Garcia , Barrier Marjorie , Alfazema Neza , Norsworthy Penny J. , Pravenec Michal , Petretto Enrico , Huebner Norbert , Aitman Timothy J.
Published: January 2017

We previously mapped hypertension-related insulin resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL) to rat chromosomes 4, 12 and 16 using adipocytes from F2 crosses between spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats, and subsequently identified Cd36 as the gene underlying the chromosome 4 locus. The identity of the chromosome 12 and 16 genes remains unknown. To identify whole body phenotypes associated with the chromosome 12 and 16 linkage regions, we generated and characterised new congenic strains, with WKY donor segments introgressed onto an SHR genetic background, for the chromosome 12 and 16 linkage regions. We found a >50% increase in insulin sensitivity in both the chromosome 12 and 16 strains. Blood pressure and left ventricular weight were reduced in the two congenic strains consistent with the congenic segments harboring SHR genes for insulin resistance, hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy. Integrated genomic analysis, using physiological and whole genome sequence data across 42 rat strains, identified variants within the congenic regions in Upk3bl, RGD1565131 and AABR06087018.1 that were associated with blood pressure, cardiac mass and insulin sensitivity. Quantitative trait transcript analysis across 29 recombinant inbred strains showed correlation between expression of Hspb1, Zkscan5 and Pdgfrl respectively with adipocyte volume, systolic blood pressure and cardiac mass. Comparative genome analysis showed marked enrichment of orthologues for human GWAS-associated genes for insulin resistance within the syntenic regions of both the chromosome 12 and 16 congenic intervals. Our study defines whole body phenotypes associated with the SHR chromosome 12 and 16 insulin resistance QTLs, identifies candidate genes for these SHR QTLs and finds human orthologues of rat genes in these regions that associate with related human traits. Further study of these genes in the congenic strains will lead to robust identification of the underlying genes and cellular mechanisms.
Ghrelin induces clock gene expression in the liver of goldfish in vitro via protein kinase C and protein kinase A pathways
Authors: Sánchez-Bretaño Aída , Blanco Ayelén M. , Alonso-Gómez Ángel L. , Delgado María J. , Kah Olivier , Isorna Esther
Published: January 2017

The liver is the most important link between the circadian system and metabolism. As a food entrainable oscillator, the hepatic clock needs to be entrained by food-related signals. The objective of the present study was to investigate the possible role of ghrelin (an orexigenic peptide mainly synthesized in the gastrointestinal tract) as an endogenous synchronizer of the liver oscillator in teleosts. To achieve this aim, we first examined the presence of ghrelin receptors in the liver of goldfish. Then, the ghrelin regulation of clock gene expression in the goldfish liver was studied. Finally, the possible involvement of the PLC/PKC and AC/PKA intracellular signaling pathways was investigated. Ghrelin receptor transcripts, ghs-r1a, are present in the majority of the goldfish hepatic cells. Ghrelin induces the mRNA expression of the positive (gbmal1a, gclock1a) and negative (gper genes) elements of the main loop of the molecular clock machinery, as well as of grev-erbα (auxiliary loop) in cultured liver. These effects are blocked, at least in part, by a ghrelin antagonist. Incubation of liver with a phospholipase-C inhibitor (U73122), a protein-kinase-C activator (phorbol-12-myristate-13–acetate) and a protein-kinase-C inhibitor (chelerythrine-chloride) demonstrates that the PLC-PKC pathway mediates such ghrelin actions. Studies with an adenylate cyclase activator (forskolin) and a protein-kinase-A inhibitor (H89) show that grev-erbα regulation could be due to an activation of protein-kinase-A. Taken together, present results show for the first time in vertebrates a direct action of ghrelin on hepatic clock genes and support a role for this hormone as a temporal messenger in the entrainment of liver circadian functions.
Resale Price Maintenance with Secret Contracts and Retail Service Externalities
Authors: Gabrielsen Tommy Staahl , Johansen Bjørn Olav
Published: January 2017

We analyze a setting where a monopolist sells through retailers that set prices and provide valuable but non-contractible services to customers. We assume that contracts are private. We find that purely bilateral price restraints have no effect on the equilibrium outcome and that the standard Bertrand prices and service levels prevail. We also show that if manufacturers can commit to industry-wide resale prices, they can obtain higher prices and service levels but will generally not be able to achieve the fully integrated outcome. Using a specific linear demand system, we find that industry-wide price floors are harmful to consumers. (JEL L12, L42, L81, L60, D42, D86, D62)
Power Dynamics in Organizations
Authors: Li Jin , Matouschek Niko , Powell Michael
Published: January 2017

We examine an infinitely repeated game between a principal, who has the formal authority to decide on a project, and a biased agent, who is privately informed about what projects are available. The optimal relational contract speaks to how power is earned, lost, and retained. It shows that entrenched power structures are consistent with optimal administration of power. And it provides new perspectives on why similar firms organize differently, even when those organizational differences lead to persistent differences in performance, and why established firms fail to exploit new opportunities, even when they are publicly observable. (JEL C73, D23, D82, D86)
Novel approaches for treating hypertension
Authors: Freeman Andrew J. , Vinh Antony , Widdop Robert E.
Published: January 2017

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a prevalent yet modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. While there are many effective treatments available to combat hypertension, patients often require at least two to three medications to control blood pressure, although there are patients who are resistant to such therapies. This short review will briefly update on recent clinical advances and potential emerging therapies and is intended for a cross-disciplinary readership.
Parasitological monitoring of fish farm factories
Authors: Наумова  , Naumova A. , Наумова  , Naumova A.
Published: January 2017

Objective of research: to perform the parasitological monitoring we have to study the

parasite fauna in fishes from different fish farm factories, calculate the index of similarity, estimate

the influence of abiotic and biotic factors on the ecosystem of fish-breeding reservoirs.

Materials and methods: parasitological monitoring of factory fish farms was conducted by

the method of complete and incomplete parasitological examination taking into account the data

obtained from various fish-breeding reservoirs.

Results and discussion: the parasite fauna of cyprinid fishes is represented by 56 species,

carriage of causative agents of parasitic diseases in fishes is detected. Index of similarity of

parasite fauna in carps has been studied and typification of agricultural reservoirs carried out.

Index of similarity between the parasite fauna in carp and herbivorous fish was 22–33 %, carp

and rough fish - 18–30,7 %.

Influence of abiotic (oxidability, reduction of oxygen and nitrogen ammonia concentration,

mineralization) and biotic – anthropogenic factors (violation of processing technologies, veterinary

and sanitary rules of fish transport and fish farming operations) on fish infestation with parasites was studied.

The role of parasitological monitoring in prevention and elimination of fish diseases was shown.
The efficacy of a new complex drug for treatment of fox otodectosis based on the data of histological skin examination
Authors: Индюхова  , Indyukhova E. , Арисов  , Arisov M. , Антипов  , Antipov A.
Published: January 2017

The parasitic disease such as octodectosis widely spread in our country as well as abroad

may cause significant economic damage.

In fur farms of the Russian Federation the extensity of Otodectescynotis infection is in the

range from 35 to 85% and in some farms reaches 100%.

Objective of research: to determine the efficacy of a new drug produced on the basis of

levofloxacin, clotrimazole, dexamethasone, moxidectinused forotodectos is in foxes and to

identify by histological examination the effect of the composition of active ingredients onthe inner

skin surface of the ear in foxes with otodectosis.

Materials and methods: microscopic examination of scrapings was performed using abiotic

research method of A.M. Priselkova. Histological sections were prepared according to the

standard techniques. Morphometry was performed using the program ImageJ.

Results and discussion: the results of clinical and laboratory studies of foxes at ZAO

«Saltykovsky» have revealed that the rate of Otodectescynotis infection in adult stock was

73,7%. No complications and side effects were observed during the treatment.The 100% efficacy

of eardrops was confirmed by two acarological studies. The article presents the description of

histological preparations of the inner surface of the ears of foxes before and after treatment

forotodectosis. Positive morphological changes in the skin were revealed. The optimal

microstructural organization of tissue has been restored after using the drug, in particular, the

total skin thickness has been reduced by 2.2 times compared to the values provided from the

group of sick animals (otodectosis). Thus, it was found that there is a tendency to the regeneration

processes of skin in the inner surface of the auricle of treated animals