bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rabies: changing prophylaxis and new insights in pathophysiology
Authors: Ugolini Gabriella , Hemachudha Thiravat
Published: November 2017

Purpose of review

Despite great progress in decoding disease mechanisms, rabies remains one of the leading causes of human death worldwide. Towards the elimination of human rabies deaths by 2030, feasible and affordable post (PEP) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) must be available with expansion to rural areas in rabies endemic countries. Vaccination and population control of dogs, principal reservoirs and transmitters, must be done in concert.

Recent finding

Advances in the understanding of rabies neuropathogenesis and pathophysiology are reviewed, including recent experimental findings on host- and virus-specific mechanisms mediating neuronal survival and explaining clinical differences in furious and paralytic rabies. The forthcoming World Health Organization guide on rabies based on pathogenesis and immunization mechanisms data with support by clinical evidence provide new accelerated 1 week intradermal PrEP and PEP schedules. Rabies immunoglobulin injected into the wound only is endorsed at amounts not exceeding the dose interfering with active immunization. Potential therapeutics as designed in accord with rabies neuro-pathophysiology are plausible.

Clinical practice and rabies awareness can be leveraged by transboundary collaboration among different areas. Advancement in prophylaxis and perspectives on animal control offer a new path to conquer rabies by 2030.
Hepatic Falciform Artery Demonstrating MAA Uptake in the Anterior Abdomen Prior to Embolization
Authors: Patel Dhruv , Le Ken , Chaganti Joga , Mansberg Robert
Published: November 2017

A 58-year-old man was referred for selective internal radiation therapy for locally advanced unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Intra-arterial particle perfusion scintigraphy was performed with SPECT/CT following intra-arterial injection of 99mTc macroaggregated albumin. Angiography demonstrated a hepatic falciform artery, a feeding artery of the ligamentum teres, whereas scintigraphy demonstrated tracer uptake in the mid–anterior abdominal wall. The hepatic falciform artery was subsequently embolized and the repeat angiogram confirmed successful occlusion. Subsequent post–selective internal radiation therapy PET/CT images did not reveal any tracer uptake in the mid–anterior abdominal wall.
Rocks, skulls and materialism: geology and phrenology in late-Georgian Belfast
Authors: Wright Jonathan Jeffrey , Finnegan Diarmid A.
Published: November 2017

Recent years have seen the development of a more nuanced understanding of the emergence of scientific naturalism in the nineteenth century. It has become apparent that scientific naturalism did not emerge
sui generis
in the years following the publication of Charles Darwin's
On the origin of species
(1859), but was present, if only in incipient form, much earlier in the century. Building on recent scholarship, this article adopts a geographically focused approach and explores debates about geology and phrenology—two of the diverse forms of knowledge that contributed to scientific naturalism—in late-Georgian Belfast. Having provided the venue for John Tyndall's infamous 1874 address as president of the British Association for the Advancement of Science, Belfast occupies a central place in the story of nineteenth-century scientific naturalism. However, in uncovering the intricate and surprising ways in which scientific knowledge gained, or was denied, epistemic and civic credibility in Belfast, this discussion will demonstrate that naturalism, materialism and the relationship between science and religion were matters of public debate in the town long before Tyndall's intervention.
Fear of predation shapes social network structure and the acquisition of foraging information in guppy shoals
Authors: Hasenjager Matthew J. , Dugatkin Lee A.
Published: November 2017

Spatio-temporal variation in predation risk is predicted to select for plastic anti-predator responses, which may in turn impact the fine-scale social structure of prey groups and processes mediated by that structure. To test these predictions, we manipulated the ambient predation risk experienced by Trinidadian guppy (Poecilia reticulata) groups before quantifying their social networks and recording individual latencies to approach and solve a novel foraging task. High-risk conditions drove the formation of social networks that were more strongly assorted by body size than those exposed to low ambient risk and promoted longer durations of contact between preferred partners. Additionally, high background predation risk reduced the probability individuals would approach and solve a novel foraging task. Network-based diffusion analysis revealed that while social transmission of the task solution from knowledgeable to naive individuals occurred at a higher rate within low-risk groups, individuals in high-risk groups were particularly likely to investigate the task while shoaling with preferred social partners. Taken together, our results suggest that the structure and functional importance of prey social networks may partly depend on local predation pressure. Furthermore, by influencing individuals' access to information, fear of predation may impact decision-making in a potentially wide array of behavioural contexts.
Correlated individual differences suggest a common mechanism underlying metacognition in visual perception and visual short-term memory
Authors: Samaha Jason , Postle Bradley R.
Published: November 2017

Adaptive behaviour depends on the ability to introspect accurately about one's own performance. Whether this metacognitive ability is supported by the same mechanisms across different tasks is unclear. We investigated the relationship between metacognition of visual perception and metacognition of visual short-term memory (VSTM). Experiments 1 and 2 required subjects to estimate the perceived or remembered orientation of a grating stimulus and rate their confidence. We observed strong positive correlations between individual differences in metacognitive accuracy between the two tasks. This relationship was not accounted for by individual differences in task performance or average confidence, and was present across two different metrics of metacognition and in both experiments. A model-based analysis of data from a third experiment showed that a cross-domain correlation only emerged when both tasks shared the same task-relevant stimulus feature. That is, metacognition for perception and VSTM were correlated when both tasks required orientation judgements, but not when the perceptual task was switched to require contrast judgements. In contrast with previous results comparing perception and long-term memory, which have largely provided evidence for domain-specific metacognitive processes, the current findings suggest that metacognition of visual perception and VSTM is supported by a domain-general metacognitive architecture, but only when both domains share the same task-relevant stimulus feature.
Embryonic origin of the gnathostome vertebral skeleton
Authors: Criswell Katharine E. , Coates Michael I. , Gillis J. Andrew
Published: November 2017

The vertebral column is a key component of the jawed vertebrate (gnathostome) body plan, but the primitive embryonic origin of this skeleton remains unclear. In tetrapods, all vertebral components (neural arches, haemal arches and centra) derive from paraxial mesoderm (somites). However, in teleost fishes, vertebrae have a dual embryonic origin, with arches derived from somites, but centra formed, in part, by secretion of bone matrix from the notochord. Here, we test the embryonic origin of the vertebral skeleton in a cartilaginous fish (the skate,Leucoraja erinacea) which serves as an outgroup to tetrapods and teleosts. We demonstrate, by cell lineage tracing, that both arches and centra are somite-derived. We find no evidence of cellular or matrix contribution from the notochord to the skate vertebral skeleton. These findings indicate that the earliest gnathostome vertebral skeleton was exclusively of somitic origin, with a notochord contribution arising secondarily in teleosts.
Socio-economic and institutional factors underlying efficiency of smallholder vegetable farms in Southwest region of Cameroon
Authors: Djoumessi Yannick , Afari-Sefa Victor , Kamdem Cyrille Bergaly , Bidogeza Jean-Claude
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the efficiency of vegetable farmers within the tree-crop based rainforest agro-ecological zone in Southwest region of Cameroon.

Design/methodology/approach

The non-parametric data envelopment analysis method was used to evaluate technical and scale efficiencies while the Tobit model was used to identify factors affecting efficiency of vegetable production.

Findings

An econometric analysis result indicates that family size, education and extension service have significant impact on both technical and scale efficiencies, whereas credit service has significant impact on scale efficiency.

Practical implications

Future agricultural policies could include measures to improve the capacity of farmers to efficiently use existing resources.

Social implications

The study highlighted that encouraging more people to engage in farm labor and facilitating smallholder access to microcredit could render vegetable farmers more efficient.

Originality/value

In Cameroon, only a few studies have been conducted on technical efficiency. These encompass mainly cash and food crops. To the best of our knowledge, no single study has measured technical efficiency of vegetable farmers in forest-based farming of Cameroon.
Social capital and fiscal performance in India during 1991-2012
Authors: Dinda Soumyananda
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between social capital and fiscal performance using provincial sub-national state-level data in India during 1991-2012. Fiscal performance in India is based on social trust on fiscal institutions that emphasizes mainly social need for economic development.

Design/methodology/approach

People participation in public affairs or simply vote turnover in general election in India is taken to measure social trust on fiscal institution. Applying principal component analysis, the author constructs social capital index and examines the said relation also. Models are estimated using panel data techniques.

Findings

Strong social capital reduces fiscal deficits. As one percent vote turnover rate rises, fiscal deficit reduces by 2.6-2.8 percent during 1991-2012. The empirical findings suggest that social capital indirectly controls the fiscal performance of the elected government. The results are robust to a number of control variables.

Originality/value

The strong political trust is established through high turnover rate and vote share in the election for formation of government that creates the platform for sound fiscal policy decisions.
Mirror, mirror: national identity and the pursuit of beauty
Authors: El Jurdi Hounaida , Smith Sandra
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This research aims to draw on social identity theory (SIT) and social comparison theory (SCT) to examine how social and cultural contexts influence the construction and pursuit of beauty ideals.

Design/methodology/approach

Sixteen Lebanese women aged between 18 and 45, from a range of backgrounds, were recruited for the purpose of this research. Interview questions probed the respondents’ female beauty ideals in relation to themselves and others. Photo-elicitation was used to facilitate and enrich each discussion.

Findings

The pursuit of beauty involves rich processes and is motivated by the search for an authentic self. Participants construct and pursue beauty ideals by mirroring views of their national identity through conformity, identification and subversion.

Practical implications

The pursuit of beauty is influenced not only by global media and celebrity culture but also by how respondents conceptualize their national identity. Beauty consumption serves two opposing functions in identity construction: social membership and distinction. Beauty, like fashion, serves as an indicator of taste that simultaneously includes the singularity and subjectivity of individual tastes.

Originality/value

This study extends research on the pursuit and consumption of beauty in several ways: it is situated in a non-western cultural context, it illustrates the usefulness of SCT and SIT in understanding beauty consumption and it highlights the role of mirroring processes in identity construction and beauty consumptive practices.
The business of black beauty: social entrepreneurship or social injustice?
Authors: Phipps Simone T.A. , Prieto Leon C.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the black beauty industry from a historical perspective and consider the fairness heuristic theory to determine if organisations in this industry are engaging in and promoting social entrepreneurship or contributing to social injustice. The paper explores the work of Annie Turnbo-Malone and Madame C.J. Walker, pioneers and stalwart entrepreneurs in the black beauty business, to discuss the controversial issue. Current and future applications are also investigated and presented.

Design/methodology/approach

Papers from earlier as well as more contemporary journals, news media and books were examined and synthesised to render a balanced view to aid in the entrepreneurship or injustice debate.

Findings

The paper concludes that decisions about fairness and justice involve perception and thus vary by individual, allowing a substantial case for the black beauty industry to both be commended for social entrepreneurship and condemned as a proponent of social injustice (distributive, procedural and interactional).

Originality/value

Organisations have substantial impact on individuals, groups, the community and society. A meaningful organisation encourages expression, perceptions of worth and constructive attitudes and behaviour, and refrains from reflecting excessive dictatorship or dehumanisation. This paper highlights both positive and negative organisational and societal issues concerning the business of black beauty, a relatively understudied topic in management in general and management history in particular, and it provides a unique lens from which to build awareness about entrepreneurship and justice and to effect needed change.
Not bad, just unhappy: diminished well-being as a motive for interpersonal deviance
Authors: Markova Gergana
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between diminished employee well-being and interpersonal deviance.

Design/methodology/approach

In a survey, 380 employees from 107 organizations were asked about their psychological and social well-beings. Participants reported their experiences of irritation, depression and anxiety for psychological well-being. A modified scale of social well-being captured participants’ scores on social integration and social acceptance. Respondents also self-reported incidents of interpersonal deviance against coworkers.

Findings

The results demonstrate that only irritation, not depression or anxiety, was positively related to interpersonal deviance. Socially accepting individuals were less likely to engage in deviant acts against their coworkers. Furthermore, respondents scoring high on both neuroticism and depression were reporting more acts of interpersonal deviance.

Research limitations/implications

Based on these findings, the role of intent in the study of workplace deviance is discussed.

Practical implications

The findings of this study suggest that diminished well-being can be a catalyst for other negative outcomes in the workplace. Management should be concerned with the affective state of employees as the experiences of one person may translate into experiences for others. Given the complexity of human experiences, decision makers in organizations should consider emotional state and experiences in developing practices for deviance prevention. Attention and intervention initiatives devoted to improving well-being and social health of employees might be more effective than discipline policies.

Originality/value

Deviant behaviors are often conceptualized as intentional acts. The findings of this research paper provide some evidence that factors other than harmful intend may motivate transgressions against coworkers.
Disentangling workplace innovation: a systematic literature review
Authors: Prus Iryna , Nacamulli Raoul C.D. , Lazazzara Alessandra
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consolidate the state of extant academic research on workplace innovation (WI) by proposing a comprehensive conceptual framework and outlining research traditions on the phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper systematically reviewed the literature published over the past 20 years, basing on a predefined research protocol. The dimensions of WI were explored with the help of thematic synthesis, while the research perspectives were studied by means of textual narrative synthesis.

Findings

The analysis suggests that there exist four research traditions on WI – built container, humanized landscape, socio-material macro-actor, and polyadic network – and each of them comprises its own set of assumptions, foci of study, and ontological bases. The findings suggest that WI is a heterogeneous process of renovation occurring in eight different dimensions, namely work system, workplace democracy, high-tech application, workplace boundaries, workspaces, people practices, workplace experience, and workplace culture. The analysis showed that over years the meaning of innovation within these dimensions changed, therefore it is argued that research should account for the variability of these categories.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for developing and implementing WI programs. Moreover, it discusses the role of HR in the WI process.

Originality/value

This paper for the first time systematically reviews literature on the topic of WI, clarifies the concept and discusses directions and implications for the future research.
Modeling of the fatigue crack growth in a railway axle under random loading
Authors: Zellagui Redouane , Bellaouar Ahmed , Mohammed Lachi
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The present paper aims to present a numerical modeling of a train bogie following a railway accident in the Algerian railway which clearly showed the presence of cracks at the level of the bogie axles.

Design/methodology/approach

Our approach consists of making a numerical modeling in dynamic under variable load taking into account the reality of several parameters.

Findings

The aim is to present a predictive model allowing the identification of the probable causes that are the cause of this premature deterioration. We have determined the lifetime and the influence of frequency on railway axle. Also, the influence of overload on railway axle. The numerical model will be directed by Ansys software.

Originality/value

Our study allowed us to understand the mechanical behavior of a railway axle under several loadings, and to determine the critical value of the final failure to avoid damage.
Managing seagrass resilience under cumulative dredging affecting light: Predicting risk using dynamic Bayesian networks
Authors: Wu Paul Pao‐Yen , McMahon Kathryn , Rasheed Michael A. , Kendrick Gary A. , York Paul H. , Chartrand Kathryn , Caley M. Julian , Mengersen Kerrie
Published: November 2017

Coastal development is contributing to ongoing declines of ecosystems globally. Consequently, understanding the risks posed to these systems, and how they respond to successive disturbances, is paramount for their improved management. We study the cumulative impacts of maintenance dredging on seagrass ecosystems as a canonical example. Maintenance dredging causes disturbances lasting weeks to months, often repeated at yearly intervals.

We present a risk‐based modelling framework for time varying complex systems centred around a dynamic Bayesian network (DBN). Our approach estimates the impact of a hazard on a system's response in terms of resistance, recovery and persistence, commonly used to characterise the resilience of a system. We consider whole‐of‐system interactions including light reduction due to dredging (the hazard), the duration, frequency and start time of dredging, and ecosystem characteristics such as the life‐history traits expressed by genera and local environmental conditions.

The impact on resilience of dredging disturbances is evaluated using a validated seagrass ecosystem DBN for meadows of the genera Amphibolis (Jurien Bay, WA, Australia), Halophila (Hay Point, Qld, Australia) and Zostera (Gladstone, Qld, Australia). Although impacts varied by combinations of dredging parameters and the seagrass meadows being studied, in general, 3 months of duration or more, or repeat dredging every 3 or more years, were key thresholds beyond which resilience can be compromised. Additionally, managing light reduction to less than 50% can significantly decrease one or more of loss, recovery time and risk of local extinction, especially in the presence of cumulative stressors.

Synthesis and applications. Our risk‐based approach enables managers to develop thresholds by predicting the impact of different configurations of anthropogenic disturbances being managed. Many real‐world maintenance dredging requirements fall within these parameters, and our results show that such dredging can be successfully managed to maintain healthy seagrass meadows in the absence of other disturbances. We evaluated opportunities for risk mitigation using time windows; periods during which the impact of dredging stress did not impair resilience.
Accommodating temporary emigration in spatial distance sampling models
Authors: Mizel Jeremy D. , Schmidt Joshua H. , Lindberg Mark S.
Published: November 2017

Model‐based distance sampling is commonly used to understand spatial variation in the density of wildlife species. The standard approach assumes that individuals are distributed uniformly and models spatial variation in density using plot‐level effects. Thinned point process (TPP) models for surveys of unmarked populations (spatial distance sampling) better leverage the spatial information underlying individual encounters, and in the presence of within‐plot variation in density, may explain a larger proportion of the spatial variation in density. However, existing spatial distance sampling approaches are conditioned on the assumption that all individuals are present and available for sampling. Temporary emigration of individuals can therefore result in biased estimates of abundance.

We extended spatial distance sampling models to accommodate temporary emigration (TPP model). Using simulations of a thinned inhomogeneous point process, we assessed the performance of the TPP model relative to the temporary emigration distance sampling (TEDS) model, which implies a uniform distribution of individuals. In addition, we compared inferences between TPP and TEDS models using data for two passerine species in Alaska.

Parameter estimates from the TPP model exhibited improved coverage probability and precision relative to the TEDS model including a 26% reduction in the coefficient of variation (CV) of the population size estimate.

In the applied example, the TEDS model indicated weak relationships between abundance and habitat covariates, whereas the TPP model indicated strong relationships for those same effects, suggesting that spatial distance sampling models can provide considerably stronger inference in the presence of within‐plot variation in density. In addition, the CV of the population size estimates for the two passerine species were 32% and 4% smaller under the TPP model.

Synthesis and applications. We expect our extension accommodating temporary emigration will be a critical specification for spatial distance sampling models, particularly for studies assessing changes in the distribution and abundance of highly mobile species including passerines.
Plant, herbivore and parasitoid community composition in native Nothofagaceae forests vs. exotic pine plantations
Authors: Peralta Guadalupe , Frost Carol M. , Didham Raphael K.
Published: November 2017

Converting natural areas into land used for production causes dramatic changes in the configuration of landscapes. Both the loss and fragmentation of native habitats contribute to biodiversity loss world‐wide and the consequent creation of artificial edges can have a significant influence on community assembly. The conservation value of plantation forests has been identified for specific species, but it is not clear whether exotic pine plantations can also be used for the preservation of native communities in general.

We studied whether community composition of different trophic levels (plants, herbivorous caterpillars, parasitoids) changed across native Nothofagaceae forests to exotic pine plantations, and whether habitat edges affected communities differently depending on the forest type considered. To accomplish this, we sampled plants, herbivorous caterpillars and parasitoids in native Nothofagaceae and exotic pine plantation forests and compared community composition of each trophic level across habitats.

We found that community composition of plants, herbivorous caterpillars and parasitoids differed significantly between native and exotic plantation forests, and that variation in the composition of the upper trophic levels was strongly dependent on variation in the composition of the lower trophic level. Moreover, differences in community composition were mostly the result of species turnover, suggesting that plantations are complementary habitats for some species, but cannot be a substitute habitat for all native forest species. Furthermore, edge effects had a strong impact on the composition of native communities, such that certain species were only present in the interior of the native habitat.

Synthesis and applications. Large areas of native vegetation, where the interior remains intact, are essential to preserve species that are susceptible to edge effects and that cannot occupy other habitat types. Creating straight instead of winding edges could decrease the impact that plantations have on native forests. Furthermore, increasing the representativeness of native plant communities in exotic plantation forests would cascade up to higher consumer trophic levels, considerably increasing the conservation value of these commercial stands.
Maternal protein malnutrition induced‐hypertension: New evidence about the autonomic and respiratory dysfunctions and epigenetic mechanisms
Authors: de Brito Alves José Luiz , Costa‐Silva João Henrique
Published: November 2017

Maternal protein malnutrition during the critical stages of development (pregnancy, lactation and first infancy) can lead to adult hypertension. Studies have shown that renal and cardiovascular dysfunctions can be associated to the development of hypertension in humans and rats exposed to maternal protein malnutrition. The etiology of hypertension, however, includes a complex network involved in central and peripheral blood pressure control. Recently, the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system in protein‐restricted rats has been reported. Studies have shown that protein malnutrition during pregnancy and/or lactation alters blood pressure control through mechanisms that include central sympathetic‐respiratory dysfunctions and epigenetic modifications, which may contribute to adult hypertension. Thus, this review will discuss the historical context, new evidences of neurogenic disruption in respiratory‐sympathetic activities and possible epigenetic mechanisms involved in maternal protein malnutrition induced‐ hypertension.
Varying access to professional, special educational support: a total population comparison of special educators in Swedish independent and municipal schools
Authors: Magnússon Gunnlaugur , Göransson Kerstin , Nilholm Claes
Published: November 2017

Independent schools are securely established in the Swedish education system. Prior research shows they generally have fewer pupils in need of support and lower proportions of special educators. Here, results are presented from a total population study of Swedish special educators (n = 4252) examined after 2001. The aim was to explore and compare the occupational situations of special educators working in Swedish municipal and independent schools. This is done by studying their occupational situations and the values they express regarding identification of – and work with – special support. The results show that while the respondents are demographically similar and express similar values, they have very different occupational situations. Those employed in independent schools have fewer years’ experience as special educators, are more often employed part‐time than full‐time and are more likely to hold other positions in schools (such as head teacher) than those employed in municipal schools. The results further illustrate different organisational approaches towards special educational support. Apparent is that independent schools offer professional special educational resources to a lower degree and utilise them differently. This is likely to influence the situation of pupils in need of support, and has consequences for the image of the Swedish education system.
Looking to the future—more concern than optimism that cryptomarkets will reduce drug‐related harms
Authors: Mounteney Jane , Cunningham Andrew , Groshkova Teodora , Sedefov Roumen , Griffiths Paul
Published: November 2017

Commentary to: Will growth in cryptomarket drug buying increase the harms of illicit drugs?
Focus on cryptomarkets and online reviews too narrow to debate harms of drugs bought online
Authors: van der Gouwe Daan , Rigter Sander , Brunt Tibor Markus
Published: November 2017

Commentary to: Will growth in cryptomarket drug buying increase the harms of illicit drugs?
Does habitat heterogeneity affect the diversity of epigaeic arthropods in vineyards?
Authors: Gonçalves Fátima , Carlos Cristina , Aranha José , Torres Laura
Published: November 2017

The aims of this research performed in vineyards within the Douro Demarcated Region were to determine the species composition of vineyard epigaeic arthropods assemblages and to determine the influence of certain factors on their activity densities and diversity: (i) landscape composition in buffers (125, 250, 500 and 750 m) around each study site; (ii) adjacent vegetation; and (iii) vineyards' ground cover. Arthropods' were assessed using pitfall traps located inside the vineyards at three distances from adjacent vegetation (5, 50 and 100 m).

Activity densities and diversity increased from spring to summer for all the studied trophic groups (omnivores, detritivores, predators, phytophages), thus showing them to be affected by season.

The activity densities of phytophages were always higher at a distance of 5 m from the adjacent vegetation, which suggests that, although they could originate from these habitats, they do not move too far into the vineyard. Predators reported higher activity densities at 5 m during spring. Meanwhile, in summer, no significant differences were found with the increasing distance from the edge. This result suggests that these habitats could serve both as a refuge and a hibernation habitat, from which predators could colonize the vineyard.
Ultrastructure of plasma cells in harderian gland of laying hens
Authors: Bejdić P. , Avdić R. , Amidžić Lj. , Ćutahija V. , Tandir F. , Hadžiomerović N. , Katica A. , Mlaćo N.
Published: November 2017

Ultrastructure of plasma cells in Harderian gland was investigated using the transmission electron microscopy. For this research, we examined the glands of 32 laying hens collected at 1, 7, 20 and 40 days and 4, 6, 8 and 12 months of the birds' ages. The research showed that the stroma of the gland contains a large number of lymphocytes and plasma cells. Most of the plasma cells are mature, but morphologically do not show productive activity. Only some individual plasma cells, situated under the secretory epithelium of primary and secondary ducts, have extremely dilated cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum which contain moderately dense, granular material. The morphology of these cells indicates that they are in active stage of immunoglobulin production. Also, we identified plasma cells with two types of Russell bodies. One type of these bodies was small, round or oval, while the other had irregular, angular shape. It was noted that one plasma cell never contains both type of Russell bodies at the same time. These cells were often affected by apoptosis. Among them, in deeper part of the stroma, were situated the small plasmablast cells.
Foraging behaviour of wild impala (Aepyceros melampus) and Burchell's zebra (Equus burchelli) in relation to sward height
Authors: Mwasi Shem M. , Heitkönig Ignas M. A. , Van Wieren Sipke E. , Prins Herbert H. T.
Published: November 2017

Foraging behaviour plays a key role in the interaction between herbivores and vegetation, their predominant food source. Understanding this interaction is crucial to providing information that is useful for conservation of herbivores. The objective of this study was to determine how sward height influences functional response and movement patterns of free ranging wild impala and zebra at the Kenya Wildlife Service Training Institute. The study was conducted for 3 months. Sward height is an important parameter that indicates how intensive a sward has been grazed and it influences intake rate through its effect on bite size. Bite size, instantaneous intake rate, specific mass intake rate and feeding station interval for impala and zebra increased with sward height. Sward height in combination with an animal's sex was found to have a profound effect on specific mass intake rate in impala. Zebra had a longer feeding station interval and lower stepping rate in tall swards compared to impala. Despite differences in their specific body mass and digestive strategies, impala and zebra maximized their intake rates in tall swards as a trade‐off among the swards. Tall swards are therefore critical in the study area and should be protected from bush encroachment which is a persistent problem.
Individual Investor Sentiment and IPO Stock Returns: Evidence from the Korean Stock Market
Authors: Chung Chune Young , Kim Joohwan , Park Jinwoo
Published: November 2017

This paper examines the impact of individual investors’ premarket and aftermarket sentiment on initial public offering (IPO) stock returns, based on 382 IPO firms in the Korean stock market from 2007 to 2014. The results reveal that individual investors’ premarket sentiment is significantly and positively related to the initial returns, as measured by the difference between the offer price and the first‐day opening price. The findings also show that individual investors’ premarket sentiment is positively associated with their aftermarket sentiment, implying a spillover effect from premarket to aftermarket sentiment. However, after high initial returns in IPO firms with individual investors’ high premarket sentiment, we find subsequent underperformance; this is more pronounced in firms with high premarket and aftermarket sentiment. Overall, our results imply that individual investors’ premarket sentiment can largely explain IPO stock returns. Additionally, premarket sentiment followed by aftermarket sentiment can account for IPO stocks’ underperformance. Nevertheless, the impact of individual investor sentiment on IPO stock returns seems to be a short‐term phenomenon, as high initial returns and subsequent underperformance are more evident within the first month after the IPO.
The role of immunological testing and intervention in reproductive medicine: A fertile collaboration?
Authors: Ali Syed B. , Jeelall Yogesh , Pennell Craig E. , Hart Roger , McLean‐Tooke Andrew , Lucas Michaela
Published: November 2017

Advances in reproductive medicine have significantly increased the success of fertility treatments. Nevertheless, some women experience recurrent implantation failure (RIF) after in‐vitro fertilization (IVF) or recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Imbalances in the immune system and failure to achieve immune tolerance to the foetus have been implicated as potentially modifiable causes of idiopathic RIF and RPL. As such, women are increasingly being treated with immunomodulatory agents in an attempt to achieve a successful pregnancy. This systematic review examines the published evidence on immune changes in these patients, the use of immunomodulation therapies and diagnostic testing modalities to guide their use or to identify patient subsets most likely to benefit. The PubMed database was searched for the terms “recurrent implantation failure” and “recurrent pregnancy loss” in conjunction with T‐helper (Th) cells and their subsets in particular; Th1, Th2, Th17 and T‐regulatory (Treg) cells, natural killer (NK) cells, cytokine imbalance as well as immune modulators and immune suppressants. The reference lists of articles were examined to identify additional articles. There remains limited data on the immunological changes in cytokine and cellular profiles during the hormonal cycle as well as prior to, during and after implantation in health as well as idiopathic RIF and RPL. There is a need to advance immunological diagnostics to match the clinical need in this emerging field and to guide clinicians to make optimal and safe therapeutic choices. It is also imperative that the well‐being of the infants conceived after such intervention is monitored.
Cervical HPV prevalence and genotype distribution in immunosuppressed Danish women
Authors: Roensbo Mette T. , Blaakær Jan , Skov Karin , Hammer Anne
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Women receiving immunosuppressive treatment due to organ transplantation are at increased risk of Human papilloma virus (HPV)‐related diseases, including cervical neoplasia. This pilot study aimed to describe the cervical HPV prevalence and genotype distribution in immunosuppressed Danish women.

Material and methods

We included women who underwent renal (RTR) or bone marrow transplantation (BMTR) in 2009–2012 or 2014 at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. Women undergoing transplantation in 2009–2012 had one cervical cytology performed, whereas women undergoing transplantation in 2014 had three, one before and two after transplantation. The samples were examined for cytological abnormalities and tested for HPV using Cobas® HPV Test and CLART® HPV2 Test.

Results

Of 94 eligible cases we included 60 RTR and BMTR. The overall prevalence of high‐risk HPV was 15.0 [95% confidence interval (CI) 7.1–26.6] and the prevalence was higher among BMTR (29.4; 95% CI 10.3–56.0) than RTR (9.3%, 95% CI 2.6–22.1), although this was not statistically significant (p = 0.10). The distribution of high‐risk HPV was broad, with HPV 45 as the most common genotype (3.3%). The prevalences of high‐risk HPV types included in the bivalent/quadrivalent and the nonavalent vaccines were 1.7 and 8.3%, respectively. The prevalence of low‐grade and high‐grade cytological abnormalities was 6.7 and 5.0%, respectively.

Conclusions

Immunosuppressed women were infected with a broad range of high‐risk HPV genotypes and the prevalence of cytological abnormalities was higher than found in previous studies of the general population. The nonavalent HPV vaccine will offer immunosuppressed individuals a greater protection against HPV‐related diseases compared with the bivalent/quadrivalent HPV vaccines.
Decreasing trends in number of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate starters in Norway – a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Roksvaag Ingvild , Skjeldestad Finn E.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

In this study, we examined changes in depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) prescriptions over a time‐period when new professions started prescribing, and when the method gained some negative media attention.

Material and methods

The Norwegian Prescription Database provided data on hormonal contraception from 2006 through 2012. We estimated the annual number of DMPA users by calculating doses sold per day/1000 women and calculated, for each contraceptive method on annual basis, a proportion of defined daily doses of all hormonal contraceptives in five‐year age groups at reproductive age. All analyses were done in SPSS, version 22, with Chi‐square test, t‐test, and survival analysis with p < 0.05 as significance level.

Results

There were minor differences in overall DMPA use during the study years. The take‐out rate was equivalent to 11–12/1000 women aged 15–49 years. DMPA sales amounted to nearly 4% of all daily doses of hormonal contraceptives sold. General practitioners and physicians without a specialty were the major prescribers. The number of starters decreased by nearly 40% during the study years and was consistent across age groups. The average use duration among starters was 17.7 (95% CI 17.5–17.9) months (range 0–90). There were minor changes in the relative proportion of long‐term users beyond 24 months during the study years.

Conclusions

DMPA plays a minor role in the overall use of hormonal contraception in Norway, even among teenagers. The number of starters is decreasing, indicating a more restrictive attitude toward first use, especially among general practitioners.
Clinical decision analysis in perinatology
Authors: D'Souza Rohan , Shah Prakesh S. , Sander Beate
Published: November 2017

Clinical decision‐making in perinatology involves trade‐offs between two intricately related individuals – mother and fetus. Decision‐making in perinatology is challenging due to competing interests of the mother and the fetus. Although decision analytic methods are increasingly used to develop processes for clinical and cost‐effectiveness analyses in perinatology, there are no guidelines on the conduct and reporting of decision analysis studies that takes into account the complexities of the mother–fetus dyad. This article describes the basics of decision analysis and highlights areas that require special consideration in the perinatal context. It emphasizes the importance of obtaining patient preferences related to combined maternal‐fetal health states, stresses the relevance of both maternal and offspring health outcomes over appropriate time horizons, and explains challenges around the use of quality‐adjusted life years as an outcome measure in perinatology. It also provides insight into the complexities of dyad status in clinical and cost‐effectiveness analyses in perinatology.
Maternal body mass index as a predictor for delivery method
Authors: Pettersen‐Dahl Anita , Murzakanova Gulim , Sandvik Leiv , Laine Katariina
Published: November 2017

Introduction

High maternal body mass index (BMI) is associated with complications during pregnancy and delivery such as gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, perineal injuries and macrosomia. The aim of this study was to assess the association between maternal BMI and delivery method in non‐breech, singleton deliveries, after 36 weeks of gestation, in women with no more than one previous cesarean section, in Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål.

Material and methods

This retrospective register study used data from the hospital obstetrical database in 2011–2012, forming a cohort of 8821 women. Women were categorized into five different BMI classes and stratified into subgroups according to parity and previous cesarean delivery. Mode of delivery was categorized to spontaneous delivery, instrumental vaginal delivery, planned cesarean section and emergency cesarean section.

Results

Incidence of emergency cesarean delivery increased with increasing maternal BMI. Among primiparous women with overweight or obesity, the caesarean delivery rate was doubled (23.2 and 29.1%, respectively), compared with women with underweight or normal weight (12.5 and 13.7%). Also among parous women, maternal BMI ≥30 doubled the risk for cesarean delivery. The strongest risk factor for planned or emergency cesarean delivery was previous cesarean section [adjusted odds ratio 16.41 (confidence interval 12.19–22.08) and 8.72 (6.33–12.02), respectively]. Maternal BMI ≥30 increased the risk of planned cesarean delivery by 77%, and doubled the risk of emergency cesarean delivery.

Conclusions

Prepregnancy BMI ≥30 was an independent risk factor for delivery by emergency cesarean section for both primiparous and parous women.
Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiaeserotype 5‐associated metritis in a Norwegian Red heifer
Authors: Kolbjørnsen Øyvor , Bergsjø Bjarne , Sveen Jeanette , Opriessnig Tanja
Published: November 2017

This report summarized the findings of a case ofErysipelothrix rhusiopathiaeinfection in a farmed Norwegian Red heifer located in the south‐east of Norway. The 2.5‐year‐old pregnant heifer was found dead after a short episode of inappetence. On gross exam, the heifer was severely dehydrated with uterine torsion. Microscopically, necrosis of the endometrium was present throughout the uterus along with presence of intralesional Gram‐positive bacteria, interstitial nephritis, and pyelonephritis.E. rhusiopathiaewas isolated from the uterus and placenta and was also demonstrated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in the uterus, placenta, and kidney. TheE. rhusiopathiaeisolate was further characterized as serotype 5. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of bacterial metritis associated withE. rhusiopathiaeserotype 5 infection. The etiology of the infection is unknown but theE. rhusiopathiaecould have been a primary or opportunistic pathogen. Serotype 5 ofE. rhusiopathiaehas been identified in several mammalian species in recent years and could be emerging.
Contested fuelscapes: Producing charcoal in sub‐Saharan drylands
Authors: Bergmann Christoph , Roden Paul , Nüsser Marcus
Published: November 2017

Universal access to sustainable and modern energy is considered key to a wide range of aspired development outcomes. Related initiatives are particularly contested when it comes to a tree‐based form of bioenergy that is used in large quantities all around the world and that ranks among the most commercialised but least regulated commodities in sub‐Saharan Africa, namely charcoal. Throughout the region charcoal is used for residential cooking and heating by millions of households. While consumers are mainly located in urban and peri‐urban settings, the growing demand for charcoal is largely met by rural dryland populations whose production‐end practices have long been considered a major cause of deforestation and land degradation. Recent charcoal policies aim to create and support sustainable production pathways, especially through the provisioning of appropriate technologies (for instance, more efficient kilns) and improved managerial mechanisms (such as standardised environmental assessments). In order to make local forms of knowledge and practice more relevant to ongoing scholarly and political discussions on the charcoal sector, this paper proposes the notion of fuelscape as a conceptual space where the environmental and livelihood impacts of charcoal production can be revealed, compared and debated. This proposition is developed in three parts. In the first part, we introduce fuelscapes as a critical tool through which to approach (dryland) energy landscapes. In the second part, we explore how local stakeholders in Central Pokot, Kenya, account for the shifting significance and contested meaning of commercialised charcoal production in temporal, material and social terms. The discussion then captures contested fuelscapes more broadly and with reference to three interrelated themes; namely historicity, complexity and diversity. We conclude by suggesting key areas of strategic lesson‐drawing for future charcoal research and policy in sub‐Saharan drylands.