bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of soil nutrient and biological properties and establishment of Lycium barbarum L. in an impermeable saline-sodic soil using drip irrigation
Authors: Zhang Tibin , He Jianqiang , Feng Hao , Zhan Xiaoyun
Published: December 2018

A sodicity-induced degraded wasteland, classified as takyric solonetz with low permeability (Ks <0.1mm d–1), is spread widely across the arid area of north-west China. A 3-year field experiment was conducted to evaluate the improvement of soil properties and growth performance of Lycium barbarum L. Drip irrigation of 5mm was triggered in each irrigation event by controlling the soil matric potential above –15 kPa, and urea, phosphoric acid and potassium nitrate were applied with irrigation water. Soils were sampled intensively in soil transects in different years. Results showed that the soil total nitrogen and organic carbon contents in the root zone increased by 63.9% and 16.3% after 3 years respectively, due to the addition of fertiliser and the return of more residue with plant growth. Similar increases occurred in soil nitrate contents, which showed obvious mobility with water flow. After reclamation, the reduced soil pH helped activate the original unavailable phosphorus caused by the presence of calcium carbonate in native soil, and increased the soil phosphorus availability. Soil urease, alkaline phosphatase and sucrase activities in the root zone were enhanced significantly by reclamation. Remarkable increases in soil respiration rates occurred within the horizontal 20-cm-distance from the drip line. Compared with the perpendicular direction to the drip line, more plant roots developed in the parallel direction, and their spatial distribution appeared in the range of 40-cm-width and 60-cm-depth beneath the drip line. An acceptable survival rate (>80%) and dry fruit yield (866kg ha–1) were obtained at 3 years. The findings provide an alternative for reclaiming the saline-sodic soil with low permeability.
Multi-scale assessment of post-fire tree mortality models
Authors: Furniss Tucker J. , Larson Andrew J. , Kane Van R. , Lutz James A.
Published: December 2018

Post-fire tree mortality models are vital tools used by forest land managers to predict fire effects, estimate delayed mortality and develop management prescriptions. We evaluated the performance of mortality models within the First Order Fire Effects Model (FOFEM) software, and compared their performance to locally-parameterised models based on five different forms. We evaluated all models at the individual tree and stand levels with a dataset comprising 34174 trees from a mixed-conifer forest in the Sierra Nevada, California that burned in the 2013 Rim Fire. We compared stand-level accuracy across a range of spatial scales, and we used point pattern analysis to test the accuracy with which mortality models predict post-fire tree spatial pattern. FOFEM under-predicted mortality for the three conifers, possibly because of the timing of the Rim Fire during a severe multi-year drought. Locally-parameterised models based on crown scorch were most accurate in predicting individual tree mortality, but tree diameter-based models were more accurate at the stand level for Abies concolor and large-diameter Pinus lambertiana, the most abundant trees in this forest. Stand-level accuracy was reduced by spatially correlated error at small spatial scales, but stabilised at scales ≥1ha. The predictive error of FOFEM generated inaccurate predictions of post-fire spatial pattern at small scales, and this error could be reduced by improving FOFEM model accuracy for small trees.
Article Commentary: Telephone-Based Opioid Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) Pharmacy Consult Clinic
Authors: Szydlowski Eric M. , Caruana Stephen S.
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To implement a telephone-based pharmacy driven clinic and increase access to opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND) in an effort to reduce opioid mortality across the catchment area of one Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. The project intended to assess the feasibility of telephone-based OEND, which has not been reported in the literature.

Setting

The VA is America's largest integrated healthcare system. The Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center located in Saginaw, Michigan (Saginaw VAMC) serves veterans throughout Northern Michigan. Pharmacist at the VA serve veterans’ healthcare needs in a variety of roles, from traditional medication dispensing to functioning as prescribers of evidence-based medicine. The VA is among the first large health systems to adopt and implement OEND.

Practice Innovation

Public health organizations recommend increasing access to naloxone as a key strategy to address the opioid overdose epidemic. Providing lay-persons with naloxone kits is a new concept for patients with long-term opioid therapy. There are no practice models published regarding pharmacy driven telephone-based OEND programs in any setting. A telephone-based OEND consult clinic was created to improve OEND access.

Evaluation

The success of the Clinic was measured by the number of Clinic consults, and a comparison of local naloxone distribution numbers pre- and post-implementation.

Result

The Clinic received 326 consults and 232 were completed January through March of 2017. In calendar-year 2016, 14 naloxone kits were distributed each month on average, whereas 77 naloxone kits on average were released in the first three months of 2017.

Conclusion

Using a combination of printed material and telephone discussion with a pharmacist, the Clinic greatly increased naloxone access in the catchment area. No statistical tests or analysis were performed, however, the clinic dramatically increased the raw number of patients with access to OEND.
Crystal structure analysis and enzymatic characterization of γ-glutamyltranspeptidase from Pseudomonas nitroreducens
Authors: Hibi Takao , Imaoka Masashi , Shimizu Yoichiro , Itoh Takafumi , Wakayama Mamoru
Published: December 2018

Theanine (γ-glutamylethylamide) is an amino acid analog that reduces blood pressure and improves immune responses. The ϒ-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) from Pseudomonas nitroreducens IFO12694 (PnGGT) has a unique preference for primary amines as ϒ-glutamyl acceptors over standard L-amino acids and peptides. This characteristic is useful for the synthesis of theanine. We used X-ray crystallographic analysis to understand the structural basis of PnGGT’s hydrolysis and transpeptidation reactions and to characterize its previously unidentified acceptor site. Structural studies of PnGGT have shown that key interactions between three residues (Trp385, Phe417, and Trp525) distinguish PnGGT from other GGTs. We studied the roles of these residues in the distinct biochemical properties of PnGGT using site-directed mutagenesis. All mutants showed a significant decrease in hydrolysis activity and an increase in transpeptidase activity, suggesting that the aromatic side chains of Trp385, Phe417, and Trp525 were involved in the recognition of acceptor substrates.

Abbreviations: ϒ-glutamyl peptide, theanine, X-ray crystallography.
Forensic Clinical Interviewing: Toward Best Practice
Authors: Logan Caroline
Published: December 2018

This two-part special issue of the International Journal of Forensic Mental Health is dedicated to the practice of forensic clinical interviewing, that is, the nature and application of specialist clinical interviewing skills with clients in forensic settings. The rationale for its preparation is concern about the neglect of this area of practice in the empirical and clinical literatures. While there is a substantial evidence base for the techniques applied by investigative and forensic interviewers (e.g., police officers, social workers), little of this work has been prepared or adapted for the use of clinicians (e.g., psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses) engaging with individuals managed by forensic mental health services, prisons, and probation. This article sets the scene for the special issue. First, it examines what is meant by the term “interview,” the information gathering opportunity on which so many clinicians rely to inform their clinical judgment. Second, forensic clinical interviewing is examined; what does this term mean, and to what range of activities does it refer? Third, the key points in the article to follow in the special issue are discussed. This article concludes with a rationale for clinicians to exercise more deliberation on their interviews, and a plea for more research.
A critical review of policies and legislation protecting Tanzanian wetlands
Authors: Materu Silvia Francis , Urban Brigitte , Heise Susanne
Published: December 2018

Introduction
: The benefit of wetlands for reducing poverty depends on the effectiveness of governance systems that influence peoples’ behaviour in the wise use of wetlands.
Objectives
: This article critically analyses the current poverty reduction strategies, agrarian policies and economic investments governing wetland usage, especially in Tanzania, with regard to their impact on sustainable Ramsar wetlands management.
Methodology
: It analyses the management structure, domestic policies and legal framework relating to the protection of wetlands in Tanzania in accordance to the wise use concept of the Ramsar Convention.
Outco
mes
: Tanzanian legal provisions for wetland protection are uncoordinated and too limited in their coverage and scope to sufficiently address the destruction of wetland ecosystems. There is no comprehensive national legal framework to guide sustainable management of Ramsar wetlands in Tanzania as laid out by the Ramsar Convention, which the country ratified in the year 2000.
Conclusion
: Without a sound legislative and policy-making framework, Tanzanian wetlands and their diverse ecosystem services will continue to degenerate with current strategies of increasing agribusiness and other developmental projects or economic investments. This paper provides critical baseline information to inform decision makers to develop appropriate policy and laws, which promote the wise use of wetlands in Tanzania.
Political ideology, economic liberalism and pro-environmental behaviour / Ideología política, liberalismo económico y conducta pro-ambiental
Authors: Moyano-Díaz Emilio , Palomo-Vélez Gonzalo , Vergara-Bravo Javiera
Published: December 2018

The negative relation between right-wing ideologies and environmentalism constitutes a relatively classic finding in environmental research. Despite this, the mechanism (or mechanisms) behind such an effect are still unclear. Here, we argue that given the importance of the economic sphere in most political-environmental issues, political ideologies related to economic beliefs could be one of the underlying mechanisms that drive this classic effect. Two correlational studies were carried out to test this hypothesis. Study 1 explored the relation between political ideology and economic liberalism, partially ruling out an alternative explanation. Study 2 tested the mediational role of economic liberalism on the relationship between political ideology and pro-environmental behaviour. Results gave support for full mediation. Results are discussed in line with research on environmental politics and psychology.
Response of xerophytic plants to glacial cycles in southern South America
Authors: Ossa Carmen G , Montenegro Paz , Larridon Isabel , Pérez Fernanda
Published: December 2018

Background and Aim

Quaternary glaciations strongly affected the distribution of species from arid and semi-arid environments, as temperature drops were accompanied by strong fluctuations in rainfall. In this study, we examined the response of xerophytic species to glacial cycles, determining the genetic patterns and climatic niche of Echinopsis chiloensis var. chiloensis, an endemic columnar cactus of arid and semi-arid regions of Chile.

Methods

We analysed 11 polymorphic microsatellites for 130 individuals from 13 populations distributed across the entire distribution of the species. We examined genetic diversity and structure, identified possible patterns of isolation by distance (IBD) and tested two competing population history scenarios using Approximate Bayesian Computation. The first scenario assumes a constant population size while the second includes a bottleneck in the southern population. The latter scenario assumed that the southernmost populations experienced a strong contraction during glaciation, followed by a postglacial expansion; by contrast, the area of the northernmost populations remained as a stable refugium. We also used ecological niche modelling (ENM) to evaluate the location and extension of suitable areas during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and the mid-Holocene.

Key Results

We found a decline in genetic diversity towards high latitudes and a significant IBD pattern that together with ENM predictions suggest that E. chiloensis var. chiloensis experienced range contraction northwards during wet–cold conditions of the LGM, followed by expansion during aridification of the mid-Holocene. In addition to IBD, we detected the presence of a strong barrier to gene flow at 32°30′S, which according to coalescence analysis occurred 44 kyr BP. The resulting genetic clusters differed in realized climatic niche, particularly in the variables related to precipitation.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the cactus E. chiloensis var. chiloensis experienced range contraction and fragmentation during the wet–cold conditions of the LGM, which may have facilitated ecological differentiation between northern and southern populations, promoting incipient speciation.
Drug Targetor: a web interface to investigate the human druggome for over 500 phenotypes
Authors: Gaspar Héléna A , Hübel Christopher , Breen Gerome
Published: December 2018

Results from hundreds of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are now freely available and offer a catalogue of the association between phenotypes across medicine with variants in the genome. With the aim of using this data to better understand therapeutic mechanisms, we have developed Drug Targetor, a web interface that allows the generation and exploration of drug–target networks of hundreds of phenotypes using GWAS data. Drug Targetor networks consist of drug and target nodes ordered by genetic association and connected by drug–target or drug–gene relationship. We show that Drug Targetor can help prioritize drugs, targets and drug–target interactions for a specific phenotype based on genetic evidence.

Availability and implementation

Drug Targetor v1.21 is a web application freely available online at drugtargetor.com and under MIT licence. The source code can be found at https://github.com/hagax8/drugtargetor.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Epidemiology of Bloodstream Infections in Hospitalized Children in the United States, 2009–2016
Authors: Spaulding Alicen B , Watson David , Dreyfus Jill , Heaton Phillip , Grapentine Steven , Bendel-Stenzel Ellen , Kharbanda Anupam B
Published: December 2018

Background

Bloodstream infections (BSIs) cause significant morbidity and mortality in children. Recent pediatric epidemiological data may inform prevention strategies and empiric antimicrobial therapy selection.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study from 2009 through 2016 utilizing demographic and microbiologic data on inpatients aged <19 years using the Premier Healthcare Database. BSIs were positive blood cultures without known contaminants. Hospitalization rate was the number of BSI-positive encounters per 1000 admissions. Community-acquired infections (CAIs) were cultures positive ≤2 days of admission among nonneonates. BSI patients were compared to documented positive BSI patients (non-BSI); differences were analyzed using χ2 test, t test, and Cochran-Armitage test for time trends.

Results

Among 1 809 751 encounters from 162 US hospitals, 5340 (0.30%) were BSI positive; CAIs were most common (50%). BSI patients were more often aged 1–5 years and had complex chronic conditions or central lines compared to non-BSI patients. The BSI hospitalization rate declined nonsignificantly over time (3.13 in 2009 to 2.98 in 2016, P = .08). Among pathogens, Escherichia coli (0.80 to 1.26), methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (0.83 to 1.98), and group A Streptococcus (0.16 to 0.37) significantly increased for nonneonates, while Streptococcus pneumoniae (1.07 to 0.26) and Enterococcus spp. (0.60 to 0.17) declined. Regional differences were greatest for E. coli and highest in the New England and South Atlantic regions.

Conclusions

Trends in pediatric BSI hospitalization rates varied by pathogen and regionally. Overall the BSI hospitalization rate did not significantly decline, indicating a continued need to improve pediatric BSI assessment and prevention.
Place of death and associated factors: a population-based study using death certificate data
Authors: Cabañero-Martínez María José , Nolasco Andreu , Melchor Inmaculada , Fernández-Alcántara Manuel , Cabrero-García Julio
Published: December 2018

Background

Although studies suggest that most people prefer to die at home, not enough is known about place of death patterns by cause of death considering sociodemographic factors. The objective of this study was to determine the place of death in the population and to analyze the sociodemographic variables and causes of death associated with home as the place of death.

Methods

Cross-sectional population-based study. All death certificate data on the residents in Spain aged 15 or over who died in Spain between 2012 and 2015 were included. We employed multinomial logistic regression to explore the relation between place of death, sociodemographic variables and cause of death classified according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, and to conditions needing palliative care.

Results

Over half of all deaths occurred in hospital (57.4%), representing double the frequency of deaths that occurred at home. All the sociodemographic variables (sex, educational level, urbanization level, marital status, age and country of birth) were associated with place of death, although age presented the strongest association. Cause of death was the main predictor with heart disease, neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and senility accounting for the highest percentages of home deaths.

Conclusions

Most people die in hospital. Cause of death presented a stronger association with place of death than sociodemographic variables; of these latter, age, urbanization level and marital status were the main predictors. These results will prove useful in planning end-of-life care that is more closely tailored to people’s circumstances and needs.
Heart Rate Variability Predicts Older Adults’ Avoidance of Negativity
Authors: Mantantzis Konstantinos , Schlaghecken Friederike , Maylor Elizabeth A
Published: December 2018

Objectives

The ability to produce situation-appropriate cognitive and emotional responses is dependent on autonomic nervous system (ANS) functionality. Heart rate variability (HRV) is an index of ANS functionality, and resting HRV levels have been associated with cognitive control and inhibitory capacity in young adults, particularly when faced with emotional information. As older adults’ greater preference for positive and avoidance of negative stimuli (positivity effect) is thought to be dependent on cognitive control, we hypothesized that HRV could predict positivity-effect magnitude in older adults.

Method

We measured resting-level HRV and gaze preference for happy and angry (relative to neutral) faces in 63 young and 62 older adults.

Results

Whereas young adults showed no consistent preference for happy or angry faces, older adults showed the expected positivity effect, which predominantly manifested as negativity avoidance rather than positivity preference. Crucially, older but not young adults showed an association between HRV and gaze preference, with higher levels of HRV being specifically associated with stronger negativity avoidance.

Discussion

This is the first study to demonstrate a link between older adults’ ANS functionality and their avoidance of negative information. Increasing the efficiency of the cardiovascular system might selectively improve older adults’ ability to disregard negative influences.
When Can Exemplars Shape White Racial Attitudes? Evidence from the 2012 U.S. Presidential Campaign
Authors: Goldman Seth K , Hopkins Daniel J
Published: December 2018

Prior research finds that exposure to outgroup exemplars reduces prejudice, but it has focused on most-likely cases. We examine whether salient outgroup exemplars can reduce prejudice under more challenging conditions, such as when they are counter-stereotypical but not well-liked, and the audience is heterogeneous and holds strong priors. Specifically, we assess the impact of the Obama exemplar under the less auspicious conditions of the 2012 U.S. presidential campaign. Using panel data, we find that racial prejudice declined during the campaign, especially among Whites with the most exposure to Obama through political television. Liking Obama proved irrelevant to these effects, as did partisanship. Racial prejudice increased slightly after the campaign ended, but the effects remained largely intact weeks later.
Healthcare data scientist qualifications, skills, and job focus: a content analysis of job postings
Authors: Meyer Melanie A
Published: December 2018

Objective

Growth in big data and its potential impact on the healthcare industry have driven the need for more data scientists. In health care, big data can be used to improve care quality, increase efficiency, lower costs, and drive innovation. Given the importance of data scientists to U.S. healthcare organizations, I examine the qualifications and skills these organizations require for data scientist positions and the specific focus of their work.

Materials and Methods

A content analysis of U.S. healthcare data scientist job postings was conducted using an inductive approach to capture and categorize core information about each posting and a deductive approach to evaluate skills required. Profiles were generated for 4 job focus areas.

Results

There is a spectrum of healthcare data scientist positions that varies based on hiring organization type, job level, and job focus area. The focus of these positions ranged from performance improvement to innovation and product development with some positions more broadly defined to address organizational-specific needs. Based on the job posting sample, the primary skills these organizations required were statistics, R, machine learning, storytelling, and Python.

Conclusions

These results may be useful to organizations as they deepen our understanding of the qualifications and skills required for data scientist positions and may aid organizations in identifying skills and knowledge areas that have been overlooked in position postings.
An Observational Study of Deep Learning and Automated Evaluation of Cervical Images for Cancer Screening
Authors: Hu Liming , Bell David , Antani Sameer , Xue Zhiyun , Yu Kai , Horning Matthew P , Gachuhi Noni , Wilson Benjamin , Jaiswal Mayoore S , Befano Brian , Long L Rodney , Herrero Rolando , Einstein Mark H , Burk Robert D , Demarco Maria , Gage Julia C , Rodriguez Ana Cecilia , Wentzensen Nicolas , Schiffman Mark
Published: December 2018

Background

Human papillomavirus vaccination and cervical screening are lacking in most lower resource settings, where approximately 80% of more than 500 000 cancer cases occur annually. Visual inspection of the cervix following acetic acid application is practical but not reproducible or accurate. The objective of this study was to develop a “deep learning”-based visual evaluation algorithm that automatically recognizes cervical precancer/cancer.

Methods

A population-based longitudinal cohort of 9406 women ages 18–94 years in Guanacaste, Costa Rica was followed for 7 years (1993–2000), incorporating multiple cervical screening methods and histopathologic confirmation of precancers. Tumor registry linkage identified cancers up to 18 years. Archived, digitized cervical images from screening, taken with a fixed-focus camera (“cervicography”), were used for training/validation of the deep learning-based algorithm. The resultant image prediction score (0–1) could be categorized to balance sensitivity and specificity for detection of precancer/cancer. All statistical tests were two-sided.

Results

Automated visual evaluation of enrollment cervigrams identified cumulative precancer/cancer cases with greater accuracy (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.89 to 0.93) than original cervigram interpretation (AUC = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.63 to 0.74; P < .001) or conventional cytology (AUC = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.65 to 0.77; P < .001). A single visual screening round restricted to women at the prime screening ages of 25–49 years could identify 127 (55.7%) of 228 precancers (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2/cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3/adenocarcinoma in situ [AIS]) diagnosed cumulatively in the entire adult population (ages 18–94 years) while referring 11.0% for management.

Conclusions

The results support consideration of automated visual evaluation of cervical images from contemporary digital cameras. If achieved, this might permit dissemination of effective point-of-care cervical screening.
Association of the Insulinemic Potential of Diet and Lifestyle With Risk of Digestive System Cancers in Men and Women
Authors: Wang Weike , Fung Teresa T , Wang Molin , Smith-Warner Stephanie A , Giovannucci Edward L , Tabung Fred K
Published: December 2018

Background

We examined the role of the insulinemic potential of diet and lifestyle in the development of cancers of the digestive system, using two plasma C-peptide-based indices: the empirical dietary index for hyperinsulinemia (EDIH) and empirical lifestyle index for hyperinsulinemia (ELIH).

Methods

We used Cox regression to analyze data on 45 816 men (Health Professionals Follow-up Study, 1986–2012) and 74 191 women (Nurses’ Health Study, 1984–2012) to examine associations between EDIH and ELIH scores and digestive system cancers. We computed the diet-only score (EDIH) from food-frequency questionnaires administered every 4 years. The lifestyle score (ELIH) included diet, body mass index, and physical activity. Outcomes included incident cancer of the digestive system (mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colorectum) and its accessory organs (pancreas, gallbladder, and liver). P values were two-sided.

Results

We found direct associations between higher insulinemic potential of diet or lifestyle and risk of developing digestive system cancers in both men and women. The pooled multivariable hazard ratios (HRs) for participants comparing the highest to lowest EDIH quintile were: HR = 1.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.15 to 1.40, Ptrend < .001 for digestive system cancers; HR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.17 to 1.45, Ptrend < .001 for digestive tract cancers (excluding accessory organs); and HR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.93 to 1.41, Ptrend = .48 for digestive accessory organ cancers. The same associations were stronger with the lifestyle score: HR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.23 to 1.76, Ptrend < .001 for digestive system cancers; HR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.14 to 1.95, Ptrend = .001 for digestive tract cancers; and HR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.17 to 1.73, Ptrend < .001 for digestive accessory organ cancers.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that interventions to reduce the insulinemic potential of diet and lifestyle may be a means of preventing digestive system cancer.
Abundant Z-cyanomethanimine in the interstellar medium: paving the way to the synthesis of adenine
Authors: Rivilla V M , Martín-Pintado J , Jiménez-Serra I , Zeng S , Martín S , Armijos-Abendaño J , Requena-Torres M A , Aladro R , Riquelme D
Published: December 2018

We report the first detection in the interstellar medium (ISM) of the Z-isomer of cyanomethanimine (HNCHCN), an HCN dimer proposed as precursor of adenine. We identified six transitions of Z-cyanomethanimine, along with five transitions of E-cyanomethanimine, using IRAM 30m observations towards the Galactic Centre quiescent molecular cloud G + 0.693. The Z-isomer has a column density of (2.0 ± 0.6) × 1014 cm−2 and an abundance of 1.5 × 10−9. The relative abundance ratio between the isomers is [Z/E]∼6. This value cannot be explained by the two chemical formation routes previously proposed (gas phase and grain surface), which predicts abundances ratios between 0.9 and 1.5. The observed [Z/E] ratio is in good agreement with thermodynamic equilibrium at the gas kinetic temperature (130−210 K). Since isomerization is not possible in the ISM, the two species may be formed at high temperature. New chemical models, including surface chemistry on dust grains and gas-phase reactions, should be explored to explain our findings. Whatever the formation mechanism, the high abundance of Z-HNCHCN shows that precursors of adenine are efficiently formed in the ISM.
Diverging trends of wage inequality in Europe
Authors: Pereira João M R , Galego Aurora
Published: December 2018

Since the middle/end of the 2000s wage inequality has increased in some European countries (such as Portugal or the UK) and decreased in others (especially in Hungary and Poland). In this article, we analyse the role of the minimum wage and of workers’ and firms’ observed characteristics behind these diverging trends in wage inequality. Our findings indicate that compositional changes as regards education are a key factor pushing up inequality in the majority of the countries, but particularly in Italy and Portugal. Other factors either contribute to increased or decreased inequality, specifically minimum wage changes, the percentage of non-native employees and native wage premiums. Minimum wage changes seem to be of crucial importance in Greece, Hungary and Poland. Finally, the presence of non-natives in the labour market is a key determinant in the UK, but also to some extent in Austria and Hungary.
Expected Practice as a Novel Antibiotic Stewardship Intervention
Authors: Yadav Kabir , Masuda Eriko , Minejima Emi , Spellberg Brad
Published: December 2018

“Expected practice” is a recently described method to alter clinical behavior. We implemented an expected practice around short-course antibiotic therapy, which was associated with decreased antibiotic utilization for multiple bacterial infections. Thus, we describe this expected practice as a novel, simple, and inexpensive tool to enhance antibiotic stewardship.
Practice variation in the management of children hospitalized with bronchiolitis: A Canadian perspective
Authors: Jetty Radha , Harrison Mary-Ann , Momoli Franco , Pound Catherine
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To describe variations in the monitoring, treatment, and discharge of children hospitalized with bronchiolitis among physicians across Canadian paediatric teaching hospitals.

Methods

We conducted an electronic survey of paediatricians with experience in the management of inpatient bronchiolitis at 20 Canadian paediatric teaching hospitals. Only physicians who worked a minimum of 6 weeks on their hospital inpatient unit in the 2015 calendar year were eligible to participate in the study. The questionnaire explored the monitoring, treatment, and discharge of children with bronchiolitis. Central tendency (mean) and dispersion (SD) statistics were produced for continuous variables and frequency distributions for categorical variables.

Results

A total of 142 respondents were included in the analysis. 45.1% reported the routine use of continuous oxygen saturation monitoring. 27.5% used a higher cut-off for oxygen supplementation of 92% and 12.7% use a lower cut-off of 88%. 29.6% routinely used deep nasal suctioning. Seventy-three per cent reported using nebulized therapies. 55.6% reported having preprinted order sheets or guidelines for management of inpatient bronchiolitis at their institutions and 28.2% reported having specific discharge criteria. The length of time required to be off oxygen prior to discharge varied (31% at 12 hours, 27.5% at 24 hours, and 24.6% after the last sleep period without oxygen).

Conclusion

There is significant practice variation in the monitoring, treatment, and discharge of children hospitalized with bronchiolitis within and between Canadian paediatric teaching hospitals. Future research is needed to establish best practices, effective knowledge translation, and implementation strategies to standardize care and decrease length of stay.
Office-Based Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Disease: A Systematic Review of Recent Human Studies
Authors: Law Luke , Hunt Christine L , van Wijnen Andre J , Nassr Ahmad , Larson A Noelle , Eldrige Jason S , Mauck William D , Pingree Mathew J , Yang Juan , Muir Casey W , Erwin Patricia J , Bydon Mohamad , Qu Wenchun
Published: December 2018

Background

The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in clinical applications for the treatment of musculoskeletal disease is steadily increasing in office-based practice. The so-called “first generation” of MSCs is defined as autologous stem cells that have undergone minimal manipulation and are used for a homologous purpose. Systematic reviews of the clinical trials completed to date of such MSCs enable practitioners to better understand what is currently known about the outcomes and side effects of such treatments.

Study Design

A systematic review of human clinical studies of office-based MSC therapy for the treatment of painful degenerative musculoskeletal conditions.

Methods

A search of the Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus databases was conducted from 2006 through September 2016. Seven hundred sixty-one records were identified from database searching, and two records from reference review of included papers. Studies with human subjects that evaluated treatment of musculoskeletal disease with minimally manipulated MSCs were included.

Results

Eight studies were included in this review based on selection criteria. A total of 941 patients were included, 841 of whom received cellular products, and no significant adverse events were reported. Symptomatology generally improved, though no differences were seen over controls where present.

Conclusion

Support in the literature is strongest for the use of bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) injections for the treatment of knee pain, but applications of the use of BMAC and peripheral blood–derived MSCs for the treatment of hip pain, tendon pain, and disc pain have all been reported. Further research is required, with large randomized controlled trials.
Educational expectations in the great recession: has the impact of family background become stronger?
Authors: Salazar Leire , Cebolla-Boado Héctor , Radl Jonas
Published: December 2018

This article addresses the impact of economic climate, and particularly of the Great Recession, on the configuration of educational expectations among students around 14 years old. We analyze expectations regarding educational attainment conditional on school performance and compare our results across countries with varying levels of economic growth over time. We expect a changing economic environment to impact on (a) the average level of educational expectations, (b) the association between social background and expectations, and (c) the association between school grades and expectations. Using pooled data from TIMSS for the years 2003, 2007 and 2011 among 8th graders for 24 developed countries, we estimate a set of country-fixed effects and hierarchical random-slope linear regression models. Most notably, our results indicate that economic down times depress educational expectations, especially among average-performing students, and lead to a growth in educational inequalities by family background.
Mother-in-Law Reports of Closeness to Daughter-in-Law: The Determinant Triangle with the Son and Husband
Authors: Woolley Michael E , Greif Geoffrey L
Published: December 2018

For a mother-in-law (MIL) and daughter-in-law (DIL), the benefits of maintaining a close relationship weave through other central family relationships. Those relationship triangles start with one’s son, who is the other’s husband, and echo through the raising of any grandchildren from the marriage. The current study examined the factors that related to MIL reports of having a close relationship with her DIL. Using survey data gathered from 267 MILs authors report on a regression model that included six factors that predicted closeness. Within the MIL relationship, the MIL reporting that the DIL was helpful and had similar interests to her predicted a close relationship. When the MIL reported being close to her son and the son being happy with the relationship she had with the DIL, this predicted a closer relationship between the MIL and DIL. The MIL feeling left out within the relationship triangle with the son and DIL was associated with less closeness. Closeness was increased when the MIL reported more time spent per month with the DIL. The article concludes with a discussion of research and practice implications.
Feasibility of implementing mobile technology-delivered mental health treatment in routine adult sickle cell disease care
Authors: Jonassaint Charles R , Kang Chaeryon , Prussien Kemar V , Yarboi Janet , Sanger Maureen S , Wilson J Deanna , De Castro Laura , Shah Nirmish , Sarkar Urmimala
Published: December 2018

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a severe hemoglobinopathy characterized by acute and chronic pain. Sufferers of the disease, most of whom are underrepresented minorities, are at increased risk for mental health disorders. The purpose of this study is to test the acceptability and implementation of a computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (cCBT) intervention, Beating the Blues, to improve depression, anxiety, and pain in patients with SCD. Adults with SCD and significant symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-9] score ≥ 10) or anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale [GAD-7] score ≥ 10) were eligible to participate and be randomized to either receive eight sessions of cCBT with care coach support or treatment as usual. Participants reported daily pain and mood symptoms using a mobile diary app. Depression, anxiety, and pain symptoms were assessed at 1, 3, and 6 months. Thirty patients were enrolled: 18 to cCBT, and 12 to control. The cCBT intervention was feasible to implement in clinical settings and acceptable to participants. Patients in the cCBT arm reported a marginally greater decrease in depression at 6 months (−3.82, SE = 1.30) than those in the control group (−0.50, SE = 1.60; p = .06). There were no significant effects of treatment on anxiety; however, cCBT was associated with improved daily pain reported via a mobile diary app (p = .014). cCBT, delivered via mobile device, is a feasible strategy to provide mental health care to adults living with SCD. cCBT was acceptable to the target population; was able to be implemented in real-world, nonideal conditions; and has the potential to improve patient-reported outcomes.
Antibacterial Activity of Plant Defensins
Authors: Sathoff Andrew E. , Samac Deborah A.
Published: December 2018

Plant defensins are antimicrobial host defense peptides expressed in all higher plants. Performing a significant role in plant innate immunity, plant defensins display potent activity against a wide range of pathogens. Vertebrate and invertebrate defensins have well-characterized antibacterial activity, but plant defensins are commonly considered to display antimicrobial activity against only fungi. In this review, we highlight the often-overlooked antibacterial activity of plant defensins. Also, we illustrate methods to evaluate defensins for antibacterial activity and describe the current advances in uncovering their antibacterial modes of action.
Do all roads lead to Rome? Exploring community trajectories in response to anthropogenic salinization and dilution of rivers
Authors: Gutiérrez-Cánovas Cayetano , Sánchez-Fernández David , Cañedo-Argüelles Miguel , Millán Andrés , Velasco Josefa , Acosta Raúl , Fortuño Pau , Otero Neus , Soler Albert , Bonada Núria
Published: December 2018

Abiotic stress shapes how communities assemble and support ecological functions. However, it remains unclear whether artificially increasing or decreasing stress levels would lead to communities assembling predictably along a single axis of variation or along multiple context-dependent trajectories of change. In response to stress intensity alterations, we hypothesize that a single trajectory of change occurs when trait-based assembly prevails, while multiple trajectories of change arise when dispersal-related processes modify colonization and trait-filtering dynamics. Here, we tested these hypotheses using aquatic macroinvertebrates from rivers exposed to gradients of natural salinity and artificially diluted or salinized ion contents. Our results showed that trait-filtering was important in driving community assembly in natural and diluted rivers, while dispersal-related processes seemed to play a relevant role in response to salinization. Salinized rivers showed novel communities with different trait composition, while natural and diluted communities exhibited similar taxonomic and trait compositional patterns along the conductivity gradient. Our findings suggest that the artificial modification of chemical stressors can result in different biological communities, depending on the direction of the change (salinization or dilution), with trait-filtering, and organism dispersal and colonization dynamics having differential roles in community assembly. The approach presented here provides both empirical and conceptual insights that can help in anticipating the ecological effects of global change, especially for those stressors with both natural and anthropogenic origins.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Salt in freshwaters: causes, ecological consequences and future prospects’.
Salinity impacts on river ecosystem processes: a critical mini-review
Authors: Berger Elisabeth , Frör Oliver , Schäfer Ralf B.
Published: December 2018

In many dry parts of the world, salinization of water resources threatens freshwater biodiversity and the livelihood of people. However, ecological impact studies remain scarce. Here, we review field-observations of salinity impacts on ecosystem processes such as leaf decomposition, metabolism, biomass production and nutrient cycling, with a special emphasis on dryland ecosystems. In addition, we discuss the potential linkages of these processes to ecosystem service delivery—the benefits that humans derive from ecosystems—as additional nature conservation arguments and the challenges associated with this endeavour.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Salt in freshwaters: causes, ecological consequences and future prospects'.
Are sulfate effects in the mayfly
Neocloeon triangulifer
driven by the cost of ion regulation?
Authors: Buchwalter David , Scheibener Shane , Chou Hsuan , Soucek David , Elphick James
Published: December 2018

Elevated major ion concentrations in streams are commonly observed as a consequence of resource extraction, de-icing and other anthropogenic activities. Ecologists report biodiversity losses associated with increasing salinity, with mayflies typically being highly responsive to increases of different major ions. In this study, we evaluated the performance of the mayfly
Neocloeon triangulifer
reared for its entire larval phase in a gradient of sulfate concentrations. Two natural waters were amended with SO
4
as a blend of CaSO
4
and MgSO
4
and exposures ranged from 5 to 1500 mg l
–1
SO
4.
Survival (per cent successful emergence to the subimago stage) was significantly reduced at the highest SO
4
concentration in both waters, while development was significantly delayed at 667 mg l
−1
SO
4
. Final sub-adult body weights were consistent across treatments, except at the highest treatment concentration. Despite evidence for sulfate uptake rates increasing with exposure concentrations and not being saturated at even extremely high SO
4
concentrations, total body sulfur changed little in subimagos. Together, these results suggest that elevated SO
4
imposes an energetic demand associated with maintaining homeostasis that is manifested primarily as reduced growth rates and associated developmental delays. We identified two genes related to sulfate transport in
N. triangulifer
.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Salt in freshwaters: causes, ecological consequences and future prospects’.
Novel ‘chemical cocktails' in inland waters are a consequence of the freshwater salinization syndrome
Authors: Kaushal Sujay S. , Likens Gene E. , Pace Michael L. , Haq Shahan , Wood Kelsey L. , Galella Joseph G. , Morel Carol , Doody Thomas R. , Wessel Barret , Kortelainen Pirkko , Räike Antti , Skinner Valerie , Utz Ryan , Jaworski Norbert
Published: December 2018

Widespread changes in water temperatures, salinity, alkalinity and pH have been documented in inland waters in North America, which influence ion exchange, weathering rates, chemical solubility and contaminant toxicity. Increasing major ion concentrations from pollution, human-accelerated weathering and saltwater intrusion contribute to multiple ecological stressors such as changing ionic strength and pH and mobilization of chemical mixtures resulting in the freshwater salinization syndrome (FSS). Here, we explore novel combinations of elements, which are transported together as chemical mixtures containing salts, nutrients and metals as a consequence of FSS. First, we show that base cation concentrations have increased in regions primarily in North America and Europe over 100 years. Second, we show interactions between specific conductance, pH, nitrate and metals using data from greater than 20 streams located in different regions of the USA. Finally, salinization experiments and routine monitoring demonstrate mobilization of chemical mixtures of cations, metals and nutrients in 10 streams draining the Washington, DC–Baltimore, MD metropolitan regions. Freshwater salinization mobilizes diverse chemical mixtures influencing drinking water quality, infrastructure corrosion, freshwater CO
2
concentrations and biodiversity. Most regulations currently target individual contaminants, but FSS requires managing mobilization of multiple chemical mixtures and interacting ecological stressors as consequences of freshwater salinization.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Salt in freshwaters: causes, ecological consequences and future prospects’.
Are fungal strains from salinized streams adapted to salt-rich conditions?
Authors: Gonçalves Ana Lúcia , Carvalho Adriana , Bärlocher Felix , Canhoto Cristina
Published: December 2018

Anthropogenic salinization of freshwater is a global problem with largely unknown consequences for stream functions. We compared the effects of salt addition (6 g l−1NaCl) in microcosms on leaf mass loss and microbial parameters in single- and multispecies assemblages of fungal strains (Heliscus lugdunensis, HELU;Tetracladium marchalianum, TEMA;Flagellospora curta, FLCU) isolated from a reference (R) or salinized (S) stream. Fungal growth and interactions were also assessed. Salinization inhibited leaf decomposition and fungal biomass, but no differences were observed between species, strains or species combinations. Sporulation rates in monocultures were not affected by added salt, but differed among species (FLCU > HELU > TEMA), with S strains releasing more conidia. Fungal assemblages did not differ significantly in total conidia production (either between strains or medium salt concentration). HELU was the dominant species, which also had highest growth and most pronounced antagonistic behaviour. Fungal species, irrespective of origin, largely maintained their function in salinized streams. Strains from salt-contaminated streams did not trade-off conidial production for vegetative growth at high salt levels. The expected reduction of fungal diversity and potential changes in nutritional litter quality owing to salinization may impact leaf incorporation into secondary production in streams.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Salt in freshwaters: causes, ecological consequences and future prospects’.