bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Hospital Versus Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy at Home for Pyelonephritis and Meningitis
Authors: Hensey Conor C. , Sett Arun , Connell Tom G. , Bryant Penelope A.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Despite the benefits of home treatment with outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT), children with pyelonephritis and meningitis are rarely included. We aimed to compare clinical characteristics and outcomes between hospital and home treatment for these conditions and to identify factors influencing home treatment.

Methods:

Children admitted to the hospital with pyelonephritis or proven and presumed bacterial meningitis from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2013 were identified retrospectively. Patients who received any OPAT (home group) received daily visits via our Hospital-in-the-Home (HITH) program; inpatients (hospital group) received standard care. Clinical and demographic features, length of stay, readmission rate and cost were compared between hospital and home groups.

Results:

One hundred thirty-nine children with pyelonephritis and 70 with meningitis were identified, of which 127 and 44 were potentially suitable for OPAT, respectively. Of these, 12 (9%) with pyelonephritis received OPAT, contrasting with 29 (66%) with meningitis. Clinical features did not differ between hospital- and home-treated patients for either condition. Patients with meningitis in the hospital group were younger than those transferred to HITH (1 vs. 2 months; P = 0.01). All patients were afebrile before transfer to HITH. Admissions for pyelonephritis were brief with inpatients having a shorter length of stay than home patients (median: 3 vs. 4.5 days; P = 0.002). Unplanned readmission rates were comparable across all groups. Transfer to HITH resulted in a saving of AU$178,180.

Conclusions:

Children with pyelonephritis and meningitis can feasibly receive OPAT. Age, treatment duration and fever influence this decision. None of these should be barriers to OPAT, and the cost savings support change in practice.
The Nasopharyngeal Microbiota of Children With Respiratory Infections in Botswana
Authors: Kelly Matthew S. , Surette Michael G. , Smieja Marek , Pernica Jeffrey M. , Rossi Laura , Luinstra Kathy , Steenhoff Andrew P. , Feemster Kristen A. , Goldfarb David M. , Arscott-Mills Tonya , Boiditswe Sefelani , Rulaganyang Ikanyeng , Muthoga Charles , Gaofiwe Letang , Mazhani Tiny , Rawls John F. , Cunningham Coleen K. , Shah Samir S. , Seed Patrick C.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Nearly half of child pneumonia deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Microbial communities in the nasopharynx are a reservoir for pneumonia pathogens and remain poorly described in African children.

Methods:

Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from children with pneumonia (N = 204), children with upper respiratory infection symptoms (N = 55) and healthy children (N = 60) in Botswana between April 2012 and April 2014. We sequenced the V3 region of the bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene and used partitioning around medoids to cluster samples into microbiota biotypes. We then used multivariable logistic regression to examine whether microbiota biotypes were associated with pneumonia and upper respiratory infection symptoms.

Results:

Mean ages of children with pneumonia, children with upper respiratory infection symptoms and healthy children were 8.2, 11.4 and 8.0 months, respectively. Clustering of nasopharyngeal microbiota identified 5 distinct biotypes: Corynebacterium/Dolosigranulum-dominant (23%), Haemophilus-dominant (11%), Moraxella-dominant (24%), Staphylococcus-dominant (13%) and Streptococcus-dominant (28%). The Haemophilus-dominant [odds ratio (OR): 13.55; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.10–87.26], the Staphylococcus-dominant (OR: 8.27; 95% CI: 2.13–32.14) and the Streptococcus-dominant (OR: 39.97; 95% CI: 6.63–241.00) biotypes were associated with pneumonia. The Moraxella-dominant (OR: 3.71; 95% CI: 1.09–12.64) and Streptococcus-dominant (OR: 12.26; 95% CI: 1.81–83.06) biotypes were associated with upper respiratory infection symptoms. In children with pneumonia, HIV infection was associated with a lower relative abundance of Dolosigranulum (P = 0.03).

Conclusions:

Pneumonia and upper respiratory infection symptoms are associated with distinct nasopharyngeal microbiota biotypes in African children. A lower abundance of the commensal genus Dolosigranulum may contribute to the higher pneumonia risk of HIV-infected children.
Vulvar and Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia: Terminology, Diagnosis, and Ancillary Studies
Authors: Yang Eric J. , Kong Christina S. , Longacre Teri A.
Published: April 2017

Currently, it is recognized that there is an HPV-related and an HPV-independent pathway to developing squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) in the anus and vulva. The majority of precursor lesions and SCC in the anus and vulva are high-risk HPV-associated, with HPV16 the most common type. Given the morphologic overlap and biological equivalence of HPV-related preinvasive squamous lesions of the lower anogenital tract, a unified, 2-tiered histopathologic nomenclature is now recommended. In contrast, mutations in the TP53 gene have been associated with HPV-independent vulvar and anal SCC. A precursor lesion—differentiated or simplex vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN)—has been identified for HPV-independent vulvar SCC but a similar lesion in the anus has not been described. Extramammary Paget disease is a nonsquamous intraepithelial lesion of the vulva and anus that may be a primary epidermotropic apocrine neoplasm or may represent secondary involvement by a synchronous/metachronous adenocarcinoma. This entity may be mimicked by squamous lesions and melanocytic lesions. Herein, we discuss the morphologic and immunohistochemical features of anal and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia in the context of updated terminology and current understanding of disease biology.
Seizures, Systemic Inflammatory Response, and Rhabdomyolysis Associated With Laboratory-Confirmed 2C-I and 25-I Exposure
Authors: Thornton Stephen L. , Hoehn Sarah , Gerona Roy R.
Published: April 2017

The 2C drugs are hallucinogenic phenethylamines. They and their n-benzyloxymethyl analogs have become popular as “legal highs,” and significant toxicity has been attributed to their use. We report on a case of seizures, systemic inflammatory response, and rhabdomyolysis associated with laboratory-confirmed 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine and 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl) phenethylamine exposure. A 17-year-old male teenager developed seizures after taking “2 strips of acid.” The seizures resolved with midazolam, but he became apneic and was intubated. His head computed tomography was unremarkable. Initial creatinine level was 1.5 mg/dL, with a creatine kinase of 112 U/L. His urine immunoassay drug screen was negative. He was extubated within 12 hours but had elevated temperatures for 48 hours. He was treated with antibiotics, but no source of infection was identified. His creatinine level peaked at 2.46 mg/dL. His creatine kinase peaked 72 hours later at 14579 U/L. He was treated with intravenous fluids and did not require renal replacement therapy. He recovered fully and was discharged after 5 days. Serum and urine samples were tested using liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry. We detected 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine and 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl) phenethylamine in both serum and urine. No other substances were detected. The 2C drugs and their n-benzyloxymethyl analogs are potent serotonergic agents. Their use has been associated with multiple adverse effects including seizures, rhabdomyolysis, and death. They should be considered in differential diagnosis for drug-induced seizures and as a cause for systemic inflammatory response. This case highlights the significant toxicity seen with these compounds.
The Season of Hoverboards
Authors: Donnally Chester J. , Lawrie Charles M. , Rush Augustus J. , Baitner Avi C.
Published: April 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the types of pediatric orthopedic extremity fractures that are sustained as a result of hoverboard (self-balancing, self-propelling, 2-wheeled boards) use.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of all orthopedic consultations from the emergency department at our institution from December 1 to 31, 2015. Data was collected on the injury mechanism, fracture location, management, and patient characteristics including sex, age, and hand dominance.

Results

A total of 307 patients with acute extremity injuries were evaluated for a 31-day period. Hoverboard use was identified as the mechanism of injury in 36 patients with 36 fractures (11.7%). The mean age of these 36 patients was 11 years (range, 4–17 y), with most being male (69.4%). There were 35 upper extremity fractures and 1 lower extremity fracture. Eight (22.9%) of the 36 hoverboard patients required closed reduction in the emergency department either under conscious sedation or hematoma block performed with local anesthetic. Four patients (11.1%) required operative treatment.

Conclusions

The overall incidence of extremity fractures due to hoverboard riding seen in our emergency department during the holiday season was relatively high compared with other common childhood activities. The vast majority of these fractures involved the upper extremities. A moderate percentage of these injuries required closed reduction in the emergency department or surgical treatment. Additional studies examining the use of protective equipment while riding hoverboards, time from initial hoverboard use to injury, supervision, and the cost of treating these injuries should be conducted to further elucidate the nature of these injuries and work toward prevention.
Acute-on-Chronic Anterolateral Tibiofibular Joint Dislocation in a Child
Authors: Gill Jeewanjit S. , Al-Shibli Amal , Istasy Victor , Lim Rodrick
Published: April 2017

Tibiofibular joint injury in children is an uncommon injury. It is usually associated with acute injuries in sports that involve aggressive twisting of the knee, such as soccer and snowboarding. We present a case of a 17-year-old male adolescent who sustained an acute dislocation of the anterolateral tibiofibular joint with routine ambulation, who had a chronic history of subluxation. To our knowledge, this has not been previously reported. The diagnosis requires a high level of awareness and suspicion, and plain radiographs may aid in the diagnosis especially if contralateral comparison views are obtained.
Pediatric Dog Bite Prevention
Authors: Bykowski Michael R. , Shakir Sameer , Naran Sanjay , Smith Darren M. , Goldstein Jesse A. , Grunwaldt Lorelei , Saladino Richard A. , Losee Joseph E.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

The objectives of this study were (1) to evaluate dog bite–related injuries and associated medical documentation and (2) to compare these results with a study of dog bites from the same institution 10 years prior.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from a pediatric emergency department from July 2007 to July 2011 for patients treated for dog bites. These data were then compared with data from the same institution from 10 years prior.

Results

A total of 1017 bite injuries were treated (average, 254.25 bites/year), which represents a 25% increase compared with 10 years prior. Comparing the 1997 and 2007 to 2011 cohorts, patient demographics, bite rate among children less than 5 years old, rate of dog breed documentation, and setting of injury were similar. Dog breed was reported in 47% (95% confidence interval [CI], 40.2–53.9) and 41% (95% CI, 38.0–44.0) of cases, respectively, in the 2 cohorts. Bites to the craniofacial region were most common (face only reported for 1997: 43.2%; 95% CI, 36.4–50 versus 2007–2011: 66.1%; 95% CI, 63.2–69.0). In both cohorts, the child's home was the most frequent setting, accounting for 43% of bites (1997: 95% CI, 30.2–55.9 and 2007–2011: 95% CI, 39.3–46.7).

Conclusions

Pediatric dog bites continue to occur frequently, and the associated factors did not change over the 10-year period: young age of child, bites to the craniofacial region, and dogs familiar to the child. Although accurate medical documentation of dog bites is a prerequisite to develop effective prevention strategies, current medical documentation of dog bites may be misguided.
Acute Unilateral Vision Loss in a Female Adolescent Due to Ocular Bartonellosis
Authors: Nassif Douglas S.
Published: April 2017

Acute worsening of visual acuity with optic disc edema is commonly assumed to be due to idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Bartonella henselae is an unusual cause to abrupt vision loss that is associated with optic disc edema and exudative macular stars seen on examination. It is an important cause to be aware of because it responds very well to antibiotic treatment. We present a case of a female adolescent with unilateral vision loss cause by cat-scratch neuroretinitis.
Pediatric Anaphylaxis in the Emergency Department
Authors: Goetz Viginia L. , Kim Kelly , Stang Antonia S.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

The objective of this study was to describe the quality of emergency department (ED) care for pediatric patients with anaphylaxis. The secondary objectives were to describe (1) the clinical presentation of pediatric patients with anaphylaxis including the proportion of patients meeting each of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) consensus criteria and subcriteria and (2) the Interrater reliability (IRR) for applying the NIAID criteria.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional chart review of patients seen in a pediatric ED during a 2-year period. All charts were reviewed by a trained chart reviewer with 10% abstracted by a second reviewer. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including proportions, medians, and interquartile range. Interrater reliability was calculated using Cohen unweighted κ or percent agreement.

Results

Of the 250 charts reviewed, 84% (211) met the NIAID criteria for anaphylaxis (IRR, 1.0). Only 68% of patients received epinephrine in the ED or within 3 hours of the ED visit. Adherence was poor and IRR was variable, for measures reflecting documentation of discharge instructions and follow-up with a specialist. The IRR of reviewers for determining which patients met the NIAID criteria overall and for each subcriterion was high.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight a gap between best practice and ED care. In addition, our results suggest that the NIAID criteria can reliably be used to retrospectively identify pediatric patients with anaphylaxis. Accurately identifying cases is a prerequisite for measuring gaps in management and developing interventions to improve care.
Parents’ Perspective on Trainees Performing Invasive Procedures
Authors: McCarthy Madeline L. , Chaudoin Lindsey T. , Mercurio Mark R. , O’Brien Elizabeth G.J. , Bhargava Sweta , Cohen Sarah Y. , Auerbach Marc , Tiyyagura Gunjan
Published: April 2017

Objectives

When obtaining informed permission from parents for invasive procedures, trainees and supervisors often do not disclose information about the trainee’s level of experience. The objectives of this study were 3-fold: (1) to assess parents’ understanding of both academic medical training and the role of the trainee and the supervisor, (2) to explore parents’ preferences about transparency related to a trainee’s experience, and (3) to examine parents’ willingness to allow trainees to perform invasive procedures.

Methods

This qualitative study involved 23 one-on-one interviews with parents of infants younger than 30 days who had undergone a lumbar puncture. In line with grounded theory, researchers independently coded transcripts and then collectively refined codes and created themes. Data collection and analysis continued until thematic saturation was achieved. In addition, to triangulate the findings, a focus group was conducted with Yale School of Medicine’s Community Bioethics Forum.

Results

Our analysis revealed 4 primary themes: (1) the invasive nature of a lumbar puncture and the vulnerability of the newborn creates fear in parents, which may be mitigated by improved communication; (2) parents have varying degrees of awareness of the medical training system; (3) most parents expect transparency about provider experience level and trust that a qualified provider will be performing the procedure; and (4) parents prefer an experienced provider to perform a procedure, but supervisor presence may be a qualifying factor for inexperienced providers.

Conclusions

Physicians must find a way to improve transparency when caring for pediatric patients while still developing critical procedural skills.
Emergency Medical Services Utilization by Children
Authors: Dayal Parul , Horeczko Timothy , Wraa Cheryl , Karsteadt Larry , Chapman Wendy , Bruhnke Louis , Litman Rebecca , Ruttan Timothy , Kuppermann Nathan , Marcin James
Published: April 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare demographic and clinical features of children (0–14 years old) who arrived at general emergency departments (EDs) by emergency medical services (EMS) to those who arrived by private vehicles and other means in a rural, 3-county region of northern California.

Methods

We reviewed 507 ED records of children who arrived at EDs by EMS and those who arrived by other means in 2013. We also analyzed prehospital procedures performed on all children transported to an area hospital by EMS.

Results

Children arriving by EMS were older (9.0 vs 6.0 years; P < 0.001), more ill (mean Severity Classification Score, 2.9 vs 2.4; P < 0.001), and had longer lengths of stay (3.6 vs 2.1 hours; P < 0.001) compared with children who were transported to the EDs by other means. Children transported by EMS received more subspecialty consultations (18.7% vs 6.9%; P < 0.05) and had more diagnostic testing, including laboratory testing (22.9% vs 10.6%; P < 0.001), radiography (39.7% vs 20.8%; P < 0.001), and computed tomography scans (16.8% vs 2.9%; P < 0.001). Children arriving by EMS were transferred more frequently (8.8% vs 1.6%; P < 0.001) and had higher mean Severity Classification Scores compared with children arriving by other transportation even after adjusting for age and sex (β = 0.48; 95% confidence interval, 0.35–0.61; P < 0.001). Older children received more prehospital procedures compared with younger children, and these were of greater complexity and a wider spectrum.

Conclusions

Children transported to rural EDs via EMS are more ill and use more medical resources compared with those who arrive to the ED by other means of transportation.
Development and Impact of the Global Plan
Authors: Haroz David , von Zinkernagel Deborah , Kiragu Karusa
Published: April 2017

The Global Plan towards the elimination of new HIV infections among children by 2015 and keeping their mothers alive (Global Plan) was transformative, helping drive a 60% reduction in new HIV infections among children in 21 priority countries in sub-Saharan Africa from 2009 to 2015. It mobilized unprecedented political, technical, and community leadership at all levels to accelerate progress toward its ambitious targets. This progress is well documented, many specific elements of which are explained in greater detail across this JAIDS supplement. What is often less well or widely understood are the critical aspects of the Global Plan that shaped its structure and determined its impact; the factors and forces that coalesced to form a deep and diverse coalition of contributing partners committed to catalyzing change and action; and the critical lessons that the Global Plan leaves behind, a living legacy to inform and improve ongoing efforts to achieve its ultimate goals.
Scale-up of Early Infant HIV Diagnosis and Improving Access to Pediatric HIV Care in Global Plan Countries: Past and Future Perspectives
Authors: Essajee Shaffiq , Bhairavabhotla Ravikiran , Penazzato Martina , Kiragu Karusa , Jani Ilesh , Carmona Sergio , Rewari Bharat , Kiyaga Charles , Nkengasong John , Peter Trevor
Published: April 2017

Investment to scale-up early infant diagnosis (EID) of HIV has increased substantially in the last decade. This investment includes physical infrastructure, equipment, human resources, and specimen transportation systems as well as specialized mechanisms to deliver laboratory results to clinics. The Global Plan Towards the Elimination of New HIV Infections Among Children by 2015 and Keeping Their Mothers Alive, as well as related international initiatives to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV and treat children living with HIV have been important drivers of this scale-up by mobilizing resources, creating advocacy, developing normative recommendations, and providing direct technical support to countries through the global community of international stakeholders. As a result, the number of early infant diagnosis tests performed annually has increased 10-fold between 2005 and 2015, and many thousands of infants are now receiving life-saving antiretroviral therapy because of this improved access. Despite these efforts and many success stories, timely infant diagnosis remains a challenge in many Global Plan countries. The most recent data (from the end of 2015) suggest a large variation in access. Some countries report that almost 90% of HIV-exposed infants are being tested; others report that the level of access has stagnated at 30%. Still, just over half of all exposed infants in Global Plan countries receive a test in the first 2 months of life. We discuss the key factors that are responsible for this scale-up of diagnostic capacity, highlight some of the challenges that have hampered progress, and describe priorities for the future that can help maintain momentum to achieve true universal access to HIV testing for children.
Using the PMTCT Cascade to Accelerate Achievement of the Global Plan Goals
Authors: Hamilton Elizabeth , Bossiky Bernard , Ditekemena John , Esiru Godfrey , Fwamba Franck , Goga Ameena E. , Kieffer Mary Pat , Tsague Landry D. , van de Ven Roland , Wafula Rose , Guay Laura
Published: April 2017

Background:

Development of country plans for prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT), including expansion of comprehensive, integrated services, was key to Global Plan achievements.

Approaches:

Use of the PMTCT cascade, an evolving series of sequential steps needed to maximize the health of women and HIV-free survival of infants, was critical for development and implementation of PMTCT plans. Regular review of cascade data at national/subnational levels was a tool for evidence-based decision making, identifying areas of greatest need at each level, and targeting program interventions to address specific gaps. Resulting improvements in PMTCT service delivery contributed to success. Populating the cascade highlighted limitations in data availability and quality that focused attention on improving national health information systems.

Limitations:

Use of aggregate, cross-sectional data in the PMTCT cascade presents challenges in settings with high mobility and weak systems to track women and children across services. Poor postnatal follow-up and losses at each step of the cascade have limited use of the cascade approach to measure maternal and child health outcomes beyond the early postnatal period.

Lessons Learned:

A cascade approach was an effective means for countries to measure progress, identify suboptimal performance areas, and be held accountable for progress toward achievement of Global Plan goals. Using the cascade requires investment of time and effort to identify the type, source, and quality of data needed as programs evolve. Ongoing review of cascade data, with interventions to address discontinuities in the continuum of care, can translate across health areas to improve health care quality and outcomes.
A Comprehensive Response: The Role of Nonstate Actors in the Global Plan
Authors: Vitillo Robert J. , Merico Francesca , Levine Anna S. , Buonocore Taylor
Published: April 2017

Nonstate actors—especially faith-based organizations, other nongovernmental organizations, groups of people living with HIV and AIDS, and private sector organizations—have been deeply committed to supporting governments reach the goals of the Global Plan Towards the Elimination of New HIV Infections Among Children by 2015 and Keeping Their Mothers Alive (Global Plan). This article highlights the role and contributions of select faith-based organizations and some private sector and philanthropic partners, as well as the work of other organizations. The success and impact of the Global Plan was in no small part a result of large-scale country-led collaboration in the provision of health care and implementation of programs. As the world grapples with meeting the ambitious United Nations Joint Programme on AIDS targets to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030—at a time when it also faces many other emerging health crises—the lessons learned from the Global Plan in harnessing the strengths of nonstate partners are the ones that should be replicated, enhanced, and taken to scale.
Optimizing Laparoscopically Extracorporeal Knot Tying Using a Novel Pusher Device
Authors: Tu Fung-Chao , Sun Hsu-Dong , Ting Wan-Hua , Wu Wen-Yih , Lin Ho-Hsiung , Hsiao Sheng-Mou
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of a novel pusher device for performing extracorporeal knot tying. Each of the 3 laparoscopists randomly performed 10 device-assisted double sheet bends (the device group), ten 4s modified Roeder sliding knots (the sliding group), and 10 laparoscopic traditional extracorporeal static surgeon’s knots (the static group). All knots and 5 unknotted threads were measured for strength. The device group had higher knot strength, lower knotting failure rate, and shorter knotting time compared with the sliding group. The knot strengths of the successful knots in the device group were consistent with those obtained in the static group, and higher than the sliding group. Our laparoscopic novel pusher device should be an effective device in assisting knot tying with the advantages of steady and strong knot strength, lower failure rate, and shorter knotting time.
A population genomics approach to exploiting the accessory 'resistome' of Escherichia coli
Authors: Goldstone Robert J , Smith David G E
Published: April 2017

The emergence of antibiotic resistance is a defining challenge, and Escherichia coli is recognized as one of the leading species resistant to the antimicrobials used in human or veterinary medicine. Here, we analyse the distribution of 2172 antimicrobial-resistance (AMR) genes in 4022 E. coli to provide a population-level view of resistance in this species. By separating the resistance determinants into ‘core’ (those found in all strains) and ‘accessory’ (those variably present) determinants, we have found that, surprisingly, almost half of all E. coli do not encode any accessory resistance determinants. However, those strains that do encode accessory resistance are significantly more likely to be resistant to multiple antibiotic classes than would be expected by chance. Furthermore, by studying the available date of isolation for the E. coli genomes, we have visualized an expanding, highly interconnected network that describes how resistances to antimicrobials have co-associated within genomes over time. These data can be exploited to reveal antimicrobial combinations that are less likely to be found together, and so if used in combination may present an increased chance of suppressing the growth of bacteria and reduce the rate at which resistance factors are spread. Our study provides a complex picture of AMR in the E. coli population. Although the incidence of resistance to all studied antibiotic classes has increased dramatically over time, there exist combinations of antibiotics that could, in theory, attack the entirety of E. coli, effectively removing the possibility that discrete AMR genes will increase in frequency in the population.
Young genes to the front - a strategy for future resistance against powdery mildew?
Authors: Boenn Markus , Buscot François , Quint Marcel , Grosse Ivo
Published: April 2017

Nonhost resistance of a plant against a microbial pathogen can be the result of a long-lasting coevolutionary optimization of resource allocation in both host and pathogen. Although this has been suggested for years, coevolutionary aspects leading to nonhost resistance in plants are not fully understood yet. Instead, most studies focus on limited subsets of genes which are differentially expressed in infected plants to describe details of defense strategies and symptoms of diseases.

Here, we exploit publicly available whole genome gene expression data and combine them with evolutionary characteristics of genes to uncover a mechanism of host-pathogen coevolution. Our results suggest that metabolic efficiency in gene regulation is a key aspect leading to nonhost resistance. In addition, we find that progressing host-pathogen coevolution is accompanied by subtle, but systematic overexpression of recently founded genes. In support of our plant-specific data, we observe similar effects in animal species.
Evaluating clinical stop-smoking services globally: Proposal for a minimum data set
Authors: Skinner Andrew L. , West Robert , Raw Martin , Anderson Emma , Munafò Marcus R.
Published: April 2017

Background and aims

Behavioural and pharmacological support for smoking cessation improves the chances of success and represents a highly cost-effective way of preventing chronic disease and premature death. There are a large number of clinical stop-smoking services around the world. These could be connected into a global network to provide data to assess what treatment components are most effective, for what populations, in what settings. This requires data to be collected according to a minimum standard set of data items. This paper sets out a proposal for this global minimum data set.

Methods

We reviewed sets of data items used in clinical services that have already benefited from standardised approaches to using data. We identified client and treatment data items that may directly or indirectly influence outcome, and outcome variables that were practicable to obtain in clinical practice. We then consulted service providers in countries that may have an interest in taking part in a global network of smoking cessation services, and revised the sets of data items according to their feedback.

Results

Three sets of data items are proposed. The first is a set of features characterising treatments offered by a service. The second is a core set of data items describing clients’ characteristics, engagement with the service, and outcomes. The third is an extended set of client data items to be captured in addition to the core data items wherever resources permit.

Conclusions

We propose minimum standards for capturing data from clinical smoking cessation services globally. This could provide a basis for meaningful evaluations of different smoking cessation treatments in different populations in a variety of settings across many countries.
Cerebellar re-encoding of self-generated head movements
Authors: Dugué Guillaume P. , Tihy Matthieu , Gourévitch Boris , Léna Clément
Published: April 2017

Head movements are primarily sensed in a reference frame tied to the head, yet they are used to calculate self-orientation relative to the world. This requires to re-encode head kinematic signals into a reference frame anchored to earth-centered landmarks such as gravity, through computations whose neuronal substrate remains to be determined. Here, we studied the encoding of self-generated head movements in the caudal cerebellar vermis, an area essential for graviceptive functions. We found that, contrarily to peripheral vestibular inputs, most Purkinje cells exhibited a mixed sensitivity to head rotational and gravitational information and were differentially modulated by active and passive movements. In a subpopulation of cells, this mixed sensitivity underlay a tuning to rotations about an axis defined relative to gravity. Therefore, we show that the caudal vermis hosts a re-encoded, gravitationally-polarized representation of self-generated head kinematics.
Dense and accurate whole-chromosome haplotyping of individual genomes
Authors: Porubsky David , Garg Shilpa , Sanders Ashley D. , Korbel Jan O. , Guryev Victor , Lansdorp Peter M. , Marschall Tobias
Published: April 2017

The diploid nature of the genome is neglected in many analyses done today, where a genome is perceived as a set of unphased variants with respect to a reference genome. Many important biological phenomena such as compound heterozygosity and epistatic effects between enhancers and target genes, however, can only be studied when haplotype-resolved genomes are available. This lack of haplotype-level analyses can be explained by a dearth of methods to produce dense and accurate chromosome-length haplotypes at reasonable costs. Here we introduce an integrative phasing strategy that combines global, but sparse haplotypes obtained from strand-specific single cell sequencing (Strand-seq) with dense, yet local, haplotype information available through long-read or linked-read sequencing. Our experiments provide comprehensive guidance on favorable combinations of Strand-seq libraries and sequencing coverages to obtain complete and genome-wide haplotypes of a single individual genome (NA12878) at manageable costs. We were able to reliably assign > 95% of alleles to their parental haplotypes using as few as 10 Strand-seq libraries in combination with 10-fold coverage PacBio data or, alternatively, 10X Genomics linked-read sequencing data. We conclude that the combination of Strand-seq with different sequencing technologies represents an attractive solution to chart the unique genetic variation of diploid genomes.
5-hydroxymethylcytosine is highly dynamic across human fetal brain development
Authors: Spiers Helen , Hannon Eilis , Schalkwyk Leonard C. , Bray Nicholas J. , Mill Jonathan
Published: April 2017

Background

Epigenetic processes play a key role in orchestrating transcriptional regulation during the development of the human central nervous system. We previously described dynamic changes in DNA methylation (5mC) occurring during human fetal brain development, but other epigenetic processes operating during this period have not been extensively explored. Of particular interest is DNA hydroxymethylation (5hmC), a modification that is enriched in the human brain and hypothesized to play an important role in neuronal function, learning and memory. In this study, we quantify 5hmC across the genome of 71 human fetal brain samples spanning 23 to 184 days post-conception.

Results

We identify widespread changes in 5hmC occurring during human brain development, notable sex-differences in 5hmC in the fetal brain, and interactions between 5mC and 5hmC at specific sites. Finally, we identify loci where 5hmC in the fetal brain is associated with genetic variation.

Conclusions

This study represents the first systematic analysis of dynamic changes in 5hmC across neurodevelopment and highlights the potential importance of this modification in the human brain. A searchable database of our fetal brain 5hmC data is available as a resource to the research community athttp://epigenetics.essex.ac.uk/fetalbrain2/.
Synthesis, crystal structures and luminescence properties of seven mononuclear zinc(II), cadmium(II), cobalt(II) and nickel(II) complexes with 5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole
Authors: Liu Feng-Yi , Zhou Dong-Mei , Zhao Xiao-Lan , Kou Jun-Feng
Published: April 2017

Due to their versatile coordination modes and metal-binding conformations, triazolyl ligands can provide a wide range of possibilities for the construction of supramolecular structures. Seven mononuclear transition metal complexes with different structural forms, namely aquabis[3-(4-methylphenyl)-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazolato-κ2
N
1,N
5]zinc(II), [Zn(C14H11N4)2(H2O)], (I), bis[5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-κ2
N
3,N
4]bis(nitrato-κO)zinc(II), [Zn(NO3)2(C14H12N4)2], (II), bis(methanol-κO)bis[3-(4-methylphenyl)-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazolato-κ2
N
1,N
5]zinc(II), [Zn(C14H11N4)2(CH4O)2], (III), diiodidobis[5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-κ2
N
3,N
4]cadmium(II), [CdI2(C14H12N4)2], (IV), bis[5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-κ2
N
3,N
4]bis(nitrato-κO)cadmium(II), [Cd(NO3)2(C14H12N4)2], (V), aquabis[3-(4-methylphenyl)-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazolato-κ2
N
1,N
5]cobalt(II), [Co(C14H11N4)2(H2O)], (VI), and diaquabis[3-(4-methylphenyl)-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazolato-κ2
N
1,N
5]nickel(II), [Ni(C14H11N4)2(H2O)2], (VII), have been prepared by the reaction of transition metal salts (ZnII, CdII, CoII and NiII) with 3-(4-methylphenyl)-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole (pymphtzH) under either ambient or hydrothermal conditions. These compounds have been characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. All the complexes form three-dimensional supramolecular structures through hydrogen bonds or through π–π stacking interactions between the centroids of the pyridyl or arene rings. The pymphtzH and pymphtz− entities act as bidentate coordinating ligands in each structure. Moreover, all the pyridyl N atoms are coordinated to metal atoms (Zn, Cd, Co or Ni). The N atom in the 4-position of the triazole group is coordinated to the Zn and Cd atoms in the crystal structures of (II), (IV) and (V), while the N atom in the 1-position of the triazolate group is coordinated to the Zn, Co and Ni atoms in (I), (III), (VI) and (VII).
Crystal structures of isomeric 3,5-dichloro-N-(2,3-dimethylphenyl)benzenesulfonamide, 3,5-dichloro-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)benzenesulfonamide and 3,5-dichloro-N-(3,5-dimethylphenyl)benzenesulfonamide
Authors: Shakuntala K. , Naveen S. , Lokanath N. K. , Suchetan P. A.
Published: April 2017

The crystal structures of three isomeric compounds of formula C14H13Cl2NO2S, namely 3,5-dichloro-N-(2,3-dimethylphenyl)-benzenesulfonamide (I), 3,5-dichloro-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)benzenesulfonamide (II) and 3,5-dichloro-N-(3,5-dimethylphenyl)benzenesulfonamide (III) are described. The molecules of all the three compounds are U-shaped with the two aromatic rings inclined at 41.3 (6)° in (I), 42.1 (2)° in (II) and 54.4 (3)° in (III). The molecular conformation of (II) is stabilized by intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions. The crystal structure of (I) features N—H...O hydrogen-bonded R
2
2(8) loops interconnected via C(7) chains of C—H...O interactions, forming a three-dimensional architecture. The structure also features π–π interactions [Cg...Cg = 3.6970 (14) Å]. In (II), N—H...O hydrogen-bonded R
2
2(8) loops are interconnected via π–π interactions [intercentroid distance = 3.606 (3) Å] to form a one-dimensional architecture running parallel to the a axis. In (III), adjacent C(4) chains of N—H...O hydrogen-bonded molecules running parallel to [010] are connected via C—H...π interactions, forming sheets parallel to the ab plane. Neighbouring sheets are linked via offset π–π interactions [intercentroid distance = 3.8303 (16) Å] to form a three-dimensional architecture.
What if the future never comes? Understanding consumer perceptions of future anticipatory efforts of brands
Authors: Haryanto Jony , Kashif Muhammad , Moutinho Luiz , Pasharibu Yusepaldo
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The contemporary organizations invest a lot of funds to gain a better understanding of the emerging needs of customers in near future. However, customers sometimes do not appreciate these hard efforts which lead to some unanticipated results for the firm. The purpose of this paper is to identify the customers’ perceptions about the future anticipatory measures done by a company.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed triangulation of methods to develop credibility of techniques and the findings of this qualitative research study. A semi-structured interview with six participants is used to explore the phenomena. After the authors gained a better understanding about the phenomena, a focus group discussion with eight participants was held to gain a better understanding of perceptions of future. Finally, the digital ethnography was employed to better explore customer behavior.

Findings

The results show that future anticipatory efforts conducted by a company are highly appreciated by the customers. This, in turn, builds a positive autobiographical memory for customers that lead to the development of a brand relationship.

Originality/value

The application of futurology to study within a marketing context and the employment of autobiographical memory are unique products of this study.
Cometh self-image congruence: a cross-cultural study
Authors: Shu Shih-Tung , Strombeck Stephen
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Prior research has clearly shown that ethnocentric consumers favor local brands. However, consumers also strongly favor local and global brands which reinforce their desired self-images. The purpose of this paper is to examine how self-image congruence (SIC) mediates the effect of consumer ethnocentrism (CE) on local brand preference (LBP).

Design/methodology/approach

This study empirically tested the proposed mediation model across three countries (Taiwan, South Korea and Japan) using ten brands from two very different product categories (beer and personal computers). Research subjects were randomly selected and placed into one of four groups for each of these countries. Subjects in these groups were asked to compare well-known domestic and global brands which were either culturally similar or culturally dissimilar.

Findings

CE significantly impacted LBP among Taiwan, South Korea and Japan college-aged consumers but this impact was limited. SIC, however, had a powerful influence on LBP for these consumers. The cultural similarity and relative necessity of brand choices had almost no effect on the results.

Research limitations/implications

Researchers and practitioners need to more fully understand the contingencies Asian consumers use in selecting local brands. Under some scenarios, CE may not be a reliable predictor of local brands preference.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to demonstrate the influential role of SIC among consumers from collectivistic cultures.
Repurchase intention of Korean beauty products among Taiwanese consumers
Authors: Moslehpour Massoud , Wong Wing-Keung , Pham Kien Van , Aulia Carrine K.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to bridge the gap in the literature to examine key factors that influence Taiwanese consumers to repurchase Korean beauty products.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a quantitative approach to test the proposed hypotheses using structural equation modeling. Causal research design is used in this research to identify cause-and-effect relationship among the constructs. Primary data collection is used to gather data. This study provides the better understanding about key factors that influence Taiwanese consumers’ repurchase intention (RI) of Korean cosmetics products.

Findings

Results show that perceived price (PP) and country of origin (COO) significantly influence word-of-mouth (WOM). PP, COO and WOM significantly influence RI. WOM is the most influential variable toward RI, followed by COO and PP.

Originality/value

Very few studies have examined a general construct of RI related to beauty product. The findings of this study imply several practical directions for marketers of beauty product industries specifically for Taiwanese consumers. This study helps to know what factors become basic consideration for Taiwanese consumers in repurchasing Korean beauty products. Second, it underscores the role of WOM between the independent variables (PP and COO) and RI as the dependent variable.
Reducing meat consumption: the case for social marketing
Authors: Bogueva Diana , Marinova Dora , Raphaely Talia
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore reasons behind meat consumption. It aims to find out what motivates meat consumers and explore the opportunities of social marketing to counteract negative environmental and health trends.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory Australian survey of Sydney consumer red meat choices is used covering dietary preferences, meat eating patterns, reasons and levels of concern for economic and environmental issues. Analysis of dietary guidelines and marketing campaigns in relation to the survey findings is conducted.

Findings

The survey highlights: lack of awareness about the link between meat consumption and environmental well-being; widespread inaccuracy of health messages related to meat consumption; influence of the meat industry in promoting excessive meat consumption; pervasiveness of the link between red meat consumption and national identity, social status, prestige and masculinity; and urgent need for government-supported social marketing interventions and the demarketing of meat.

Originality/value

This is the first study to propose social marketing based on the health and environmental co-benefits of reduced red meat consumption.
Power and relationship quality in supply chains
Authors: Bandara Sumangala , Leckie Civilai , Lobo Antonio , Hewege Chandana
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the impact of power (coercive and non-coercive) on supply chain (SC) relationship success. In particular, this paper aims to examine the moderating effect of relationship quality (RQ) on the associations between power bases and relationship success. In turn, RQ and relationship success can impact the operational performance of the suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 284 Australian suppliers (growers of organic fruits and vegetables) was conducted to elucidate the associations among power, RQ, relationship success and operational performance.

Findings

RQ was found to only moderate the positive relationship between non-coercive power and relationship success. Moreover, RQ and relationship success were positively related to the suppliers’ operational performance. The findings conform those of previous research in which coercive power is negatively related to the supplier’s perception of relationship success while non-coercive power is positively related to the supplier’s perception of relationship success. Relationship success was found to mediate the relationships between the power bases and operational performance.

Research limitations

This study only collected data from one-side of the dyad (the suppliers). Another potential limitation is the existence of respondent bias, which can arise when a single respondent is asked to assess both the nature of the relationship and the performance outcomes of the relationship.

Practical implications

This study highlights the importance for managers to understand the dynamic shaping relationships when they want to signal their influence and RQ in inter-firm relationships associated with the SCs.

Originality/value

This study applies signaling theory as an alternative theoretical lens that looks into the moderating role of RQ on the associations between power bases and relationship success in the SC. This study argues that when the buyer increasingly develops RQ, the effect of non-coercive power on relationship success diminishes. Both RQ and relationship success positively influence the supplier’s operational performance.