bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acclimation to low ultraviolet‐B radiation increases photosystem I abundance and cyclic electron transfer with enhanced photosynthesis and growth in the cyanobacterium Nostoc sphaeroides
Authors: Chen Zhen , Jiang Hai‐Bo , Gao Kunshan , Qiu Bao‐Sheng
Published: October 2019

Ultraviolet‐B radiation is known to harm most photosynthetic organisms with the exception of several studies of photosynthetic eukaryotes in which UV‐B showed positive effects. In this study, we investigated the effect of acclimation to low UV‐B radiation on growth and photosynthesis of the cyanobacterium Nostoc sphaeroides. Exposure to 0.08 W m−2 UV‐B plus low visible light for 14 d significantly increased the growth rate and biomass production by 16% and 30%, respectively, compared with those under visible light alone. The UV‐B acclimated cells showed an approximately 50% increase in photosynthetic efficiency (α) and photosynthetic capacity (Pmax), a higher PSI/PSII fluorescence ratio, an increase in PSI content and consequently enhanced cyclic electron flow, relative to those of non‐acclimated cells. Both the primary quinone‐type acceptor and plastoquinone pool re‐oxidation were up‐regulated in the UV‐B acclimated cells. In parallel, the UV‐B acclimated colonies maintained a higher rate of D1 protein synthesis following exposure to elevated intensity of UV‐B or visible light, thus functionally mitigating photoinhibition. The present data provide novel insight into photosynthetic acclimation to low UV‐B radiation and suggest that UV‐B may act as a positive ecological factor for the productivity of some photosynthetic prokaryotes, especially during twilight periods or in shaded environments.
Publics and their Problems: Notes on the Remaking of the South Bank, London
Authors: Latham Alan , Layton Jack
Published: October 2019

Cities are full of disputes about organizing public life. These disputes are important for deciding how spaces get used, and they are integral to how publics form and develop. In all sorts of ways they define the potentialities of urban public life. This article tells the story of the Southbank Centre's plans to redevelop their central London site, and Long Live Southbank's protest of these plans to save their skateable space. Through this detailed case study the article develops a distinctive conceptual apparatus for making sense of public disputes. Drawing links between Deweyan pragmatism and assemblage theory, the article explores how publics were drawn together as assemblages of humans and non‐humans with the capacity to act and argue. It follows the arguments that each side made—and the justifications underpinning them—to explore the different ideas of public‐ness that were at stake in the disagreement. This also helps highlight the space for cooperation that existed. The article emphasizes the part affect played in shaping the dispute; recognizing its role in public reasoning, and in how people get pulled into different publics. This is a story not only of disputation, but of how a corner of London expanded its public‐ness.
Opening Oz's curtain: who’s really running the annual IEP meeting to discuss secondary transition issues?
Authors: (Van Dycke) Doronkin Jamie L. , Martin James E. , Greene Barbara A. , Choiseul‐Praslin Belkis , Autry‐Schreffler Faye
Published: October 2019

We conducted a qualitative analysis of written transcripts from nine teacher‐led middle and high school IEP meetings for students with learning disabilities to determine common themes regarding student roles during these meetings and the meeting process itself. We found two overall meta‐themes (e.g., instant vision and out of focus), seven themes (e.g., whose meeting is this, clear as mud, ignoring stated needs) and five subthemes (e.g., better left unsaid, form‐driven meetings, one size fits all). Even though students attended the meetings we analysed, the discussions and decision making took place as if they were not present. We discuss implications for educational practices and suggest future research needs.
Autophagy is required for sulfur dioxide tolerance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Valero Eva , Tronchoni Jordi , Morales Pilar , Gonzalez Ramon
Published: October 2019

Sulfiting agents are among the most widely used preservatives in the food and beverages industries, including winemaking, and one of their main functions is inhibition of spoilage microorganisms. We have used a whole genome quantitative fitness analysis in order to improve our knowledge on yeast tolerance to sulfites. Apart from the contribution of sulfite efflux to tolerance, results point to vesicle‐mediated transport, autophagy and vacuolar activity as the main cellular functions required to survive sulfite challenges. The involvement of autophagic and vacuolar functions in sulfite tolerance was further confirmed by pairwise competition using a newly constructed atg2‐defective strain, as well as by showing induction of ATG8 expression by sulfite. Autophagy is required for the turnover of proteins and subcellular structures damaged by sulfite. In addition, the requirement for vacuolar functions might be related to its role in intracellular pH homeostasis. Finally, the involvement of the sulfite pump Ssu1 and the transcription factor Fzf1 in sulfite tolerance by Saccharomyces cerevisiae was confirmed; a result that validates the experimental approach used in this work. These findings have relevance for understanding sulfite toxicity and tolerance, as well as for the eventual design of strategies aiming to control yeast spoilage.
Peer support interventions in type 2 diabetes: Review of components and process outcomes
Authors: Afshar Rowshanak , Tang Tricia S. , Askari Amir S. , Sidhu Rawel , Brown Helen , Sherifali Diana
Published: October 2019

Background

This review seeks to identify (a) the various components and process outcomes of type 2 diabetes peer support (PS) interventions and (b) the measures implemented to monitor intervention fidelity and evaluate outcomes in these studies.

Methods

The MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE (Excerpta Medica Database), CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and PsycINFO databases were searched from inception to May 2019. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data from eligible articles via the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist (why, what, who provided, how, where, when and how much, tailoring, modifications, and how well).

Results

Twenty‐three trials were included. The total number of participants was 7178. Most interventions were in primary care. Although face‐to‐face was the most common modality of contact, rates of contact were highest for telephone. Potential peer leaders (PLs) were identified primarily through recommendations from health professionals, based on their communication skills, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and coaching interest. PLs were mostly female, university educated, and had a long history of diabetes (≥ 10 years). PL training varied significantly in length and content; the two most frequent topics were communication skills and diabetes knowledge. Although several studies implemented methods to evaluate “intervention fidelity,” only few rigorously assessed the two key components of fidelity, “adherence” and “competence,” through audio‐ and video‐taping or direct observations.

Conclusions

The impact of PS on participants' health outcomes is well investigated; however, the implementation and evaluation strategies vary significantly across these studies. In the present review, we define the various components of PS interventions and propose suggestions for enhancing the implementation and evaluation of future PS models.
Analysis of genetic polymorphisms of glutathione S‐transferase (GSTP1, GSTM1, and GSTT1) in Polish patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Barańska Małgorzata , Rychlik‐Sych Mariola , Skrętkowicz Jadwiga , Dudarewicz Michał , Dziankowska‐Bartkowiak Bożena , Owczarek Jacek , Orszulak–Michalak Daria , Waszczykowska Elżbieta
Published: October 2019

Aim

It is commonly assumed that a genetically determined polymorphism of xenobiotic biotransformation plays a particular role in the development of such disease entities in which chemical compounds and environmental pollutants are relevant etiologic factors. Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) belongs to diseases of connective tissue, characterized by chronic inflammation developing on an autoimmune background. The current state of knowledge on the etiopathogenesis of autoimmune diseases indicates the existence of many factors affecting the development of the disease, including factors of the external environment. Considering all the above, a study on a role of genetic polymorphisms of glutathione S‐transferase has been undertaken in which predisposition to SSc in a Polish population was assessed.

Methods

The study was carried out in 161 subjects: 61 patients with SSc and 100 healthy volunteers. A determination of the polymorphism of GSTM1 and GSTT1 was performed with a multiplex PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The GSTP1 polymorphism was determined by using the PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results

The risk of developing SSc was 3‐fold higher for persons with the null GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes (odds ratio [OR] = 3.3; P = .0051). The risk for SSc was also demonstrated to be over 2.5‐fold greater in the GSTP1 Ile/Val genotype individuals (OR = 2.62; P = .0037). Carriers of the GSTP1 Val variant allele had a greater than 2‐fold increase in SSc risk (OR = 2.41; P = .0006).

Conclusion

The genetic polymorphism of glutathione S‐transferase may affect the risk of SSc in a Polish population.
Keep Calm and Carry On (Differently): NATO and CSDP after Brexit
Authors: Cladi Lorenzo , Locatelli Andrea
Published: October 2019

This article investigates the impact that Brexit could have on the relationship between NATO and the Common European Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). The relationship between NATO and CSDP has historically not been straightforward and Brexit seems to have intervened as an aggravating factor. In fact, the EU has launched a series of military initiatives and it has now renewed its ambition to create separate military headquarters from NATO. The UK will join countries such as Norway and Turkey in being a member of NATO but not of the EU, affording greater importance to NATO to the detriment of cooperation with its European allies. This article provides an analytical framework to analyse the possible effects of Brexit upon the EU–NATO relationship. In so doing, it lays out three distinct levels of analysis. These are the state level, the inter‐organisational level and, finally, the personnel level. The levels of analysis allow us to generate empirical observations, which then lead us to suggest three scenarios for the development of the EU–NATO relationship beyond Brexit.
How Reliably Do Empirical Tests Identify Tax Avoidance?
Authors: De Simone Lisa , Nickerson Jordan , Seidman Jeri , Stomberg Bridget
Published: October 2019

Research on the determinants of tax avoidance have relied on tests using GAAP and cash effective tax rates (ETRs) and total and permanent book‐tax differences. Two new proxies have emerged that overcome documented limitations of these proxies: one, developed by Henry and Sansing (2018), allows for more meaningful interpretation of results estimated in samples that include loss observations. The other, reserves for unrecognized tax benefits (UTB), provides new data on tax uncertainty. We offer empirical evidence on how well tests using these new proxies perform relative to those extensively used in prior research. The paper finds that tests using the proxy developed by Henry and Sansing (2018) have lower power relative to those using other proxies across all samples, including a sample that includes loss observations. In contrast, when firms accrue reserves for uncertain tax avoidance, tests using the current‐year addition to the UTB have the highest power across all proxies, samples, and levels of reserves. In the absence of reserves, tests using the GAAP ETR best detect uncertain tax avoidance, on average. This study contributes to the literature by using a controlled environment to provide the first large‐scale empirical evidence on how the power of tests varies with the use of relatively new proxies, the inclusion of loss observations, and the advent of FIN 48.
Freestanding Emergency Department Entry and Market‐level Spending on Emergency Care
Authors: Ho Vivian , Xu Yingying , Akhter Murtaza
Published: October 2019

Background

Freestanding emergency departments (FrEDs) could reduce wait times in overcrowded emergency departments (EDs), but they might also increase usage and overall spending for emergency care. We investigate the relationship between the number of FrEDs entering a local market and overall spending on emergency care.

Methods

We accessed data from Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, and Texas in Blue Cross Blue Shield Axis; a limited data set of deidentified insurance data claims that we linked to Public Use Microdata Area (PUMA) data from the American Community Survey; and lists of licensed FrEDs from state agencies. Regression analysis was used to estimate the association between changes in the number of FrEDs in 495 PUMAs and total spending on emergency care, out‐of‐pocket spending, utilization, and price per visit from January 2013 to December 2017. Final estimates came from a PUMA‐level fixed‐effects model, with controls for state, quarter, and PUMA‐level demographics.

Results

Entry of an additional FrED in a PUMA was associated with a 3.6 percentage point (pp; CI = 2.4 to 4.9) increase in emergency provider reimbursement per insured beneficiary in Texas, Florida, and North Carolina. There was no change in spending (2.5 pp; CI = −8.2 to 3.1) associated with a FrED's entry in Arizona. Entry of an additional FrED was associated with a 0.18 (CI = 0.12 to 0.23) increase in the number of emergency care visits per 100 enrollees in Texas, Florida, and Arizona. In contrast, entry of another FrED was not associated with a change in utilization (−0.03; CI =  −0.09 to 0.02) in North Carolina. Estimated out‐of‐pocket payments for emergency care increased 3.6 pp (CI = 2.5 to 4.8) with the entry of a FrED in Texas, Florida, and Arizona, but declined by 15.3 pp (CI = −26.8 to −3.7) in North Carolina.

Conclusions

Rather than functioning as substitutes for hospital‐based EDs, FrEDs have increased local market spending on emergency care in three of four states’ markets where they have entered. State policy makers and researchers should carefully track spending and utilization of emergency care as FrEDs disseminate to better understand their potential health benefits and cost implications for patients.
A Crisis of Opportunity: Market‐Making, Big Data, and the Consolidation of Migration as Risk
Authors: Taylor Linnet , Meissner Fran
Published: October 2019

Crisis narratives surrounding Europe’s 2015 migration influx fuelled demands for new ways of tracking, mapping and predicting human mobility. We explore how market opportunities for technology firms and data analytics start‐ups created by the EU’s Global Approach to Migration led to solutionistic approaches to compiling and analysing migration statistics. We show that initiatives such as the rebranding of existing platforms and services as migration prediction systems are consolidating policy conceptualisations of migration as risk. Despite the promise of greater granularity, this “big data approach” cannot offer greater certainty about who is on the move and why. Instead such approaches are ill‐suited to understanding the complex dynamics of migration and to offering protection to vulnerable people. The marketisation of migration statistics through big data offers a key case for advancing progressive approaches to both migration statistics and global data justice.
Does insurance‐growth nexus hold for Malaysia?
Authors: Anwer Zaheer , Ahad Muhammad , Imran Muhammad
Published: October 2019

The study investigates the impact of insurance activities on economic growth in Malaysia over the period 1990–2015. Combined cointegration in the presence of identified structural breaks was used to confirm the existence of long‐run relationships among economic growth, insurance activities, human capital, physical capital, and industrial production. The findings indicate feedback effects between insurance activities and economic growth in the long run. The study provides new insights for policymaking to enhance economic growth via insurance activities.
Impassable scientific, ethical and legal barriers to body‐to‐head transplantation
Authors: Lei Ruipeng , Qiu Renzong
Published: October 2019

This article consists of four parts. In the first part it briefly describes the history of body‐to‐head transplantation (BHT) and the surgical plan proposed by Drs. Sergio Canavero and Ren Xiaoping on a human subject. In the second part it argues that the BHT procedure that they propose is scientifically invalid and technically infeasible so therefore would end in failure. In the third part it argues that the present conceivable procedure of BHT cannot be ethically justified because it would bring great harm to the human subject, it is uncertain who would be the possible beneficiary, and valid informed consent cannot be obtained. In the fourth part it argues that the action of performing the procedure of BHT might violate China’s current criminal and civil laws. The conclusion that follows from the arguments above is that BHT should be prohibited now and also in the near future. However, this conclusion does not preclude scientists, neurosurgeons and bioethicists doing research into scientific, technical, surgical and ethical issues raised by BHT.
TheraP: a randomized phase 2 trial of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 theranostic treatment vs cabazitaxel in progressive metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (Clinical Trial Protocol ANZUP 1603)
Authors: Hofman Michael S. , Emmett Louise , Violet John , Y. Zhang Alison , Lawrence Nicola J. , Stockler Martin , Francis Roslyn J. , Iravani Amir , Williams Scott , Azad Arun , Martin Andrew , McJannett Margaret ,   ANZUP TheraP team, Davis Ian D.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To assess the activity and safety of cabazitaxel chemotherapy vs that of treatment with 177Lu‐PSMA‐617, a novel radiolabelled small molecule that binds with high affinity to prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA), in men with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who have received prior docetaxel treatment.

Patients and methods

The TheraP trial (ANZUP 1603) is an open‐label, randomized, stratified, two‐arm multicentre phase 2 trial comparing the activity and safety of cabazitaxel chemotherapy vs 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 therapy in the treatment of men with mCRPC. Key eligibility criteria include prior docetaxel chemotherapy, rising prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level, sufficient PSMA avidity, as defined by centrally reviewed 68Ga‐PSMA‐11 and fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)‐positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) with no discordant FDG‐avid PSMA‐negative sites of disease. Patients in the control group receive standard treatment with cabazitaxel (20 mg/m2) i.v. every 3 weeks with prednisolone 10 mg daily orally, for a maximum of 10 cycles. Patients in the experimental group receive 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 (8.5 GBq decreasing by 0.5 GBq per cycle) i.v. every 6 weeks, for up to a maximum of six cycles. In the event of an exceptional response as defined on centrally reviewed post‐therapy single‐photon emission CT imaging, treatment will be suspended but can recommence on progression. The trial aims to include 200 patients who will be centrally randomized to one of the two treatment groups, in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint is PSA response. Secondary endpoints are overall survival, progression‐free survival (PFS), radiographic PFS, PSA PFS, objective tumour response, pain response, pain PFS, health‐related quality of life, and frequency and severity of adverse events. The treatment and outcomes of patients excluded on the basis of low PSMA avidity or discordant FDG‐avid disease on screening 68Ga‐PSMA‐11 and Fluorine‐18 (18F)‐FDG‐PET/CT scan will also be assessed. Enrolment in the study commenced on 29 January 2018.

Results and Conclusions

177Lu‐PSMA‐617 offers a potential additional life‐prolonging treatment option for men with mCRPC. The results of this trial will determine, for the first time in a randomized design, the activity and safety of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617, as compared with cabazitaxel chemotherapy in men with progressive mCRPC.
The cardiovascular risk profile of middle‐aged women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Meun Cindy , Gunning Marlise N , Louwers Yvonne V , Peters Henrike , Roos‐Hesselink Jolien , Roeters van Lennep Jeanine , Rueda Ochoa Oscar‐Leonel , Appelman Yolande , Lambalk Nils , Boersma Eric , Kavousi Maryam , Fauser Bart CJM , Laven Joop SE ,   on behalf of the CREW consortium
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Contradictory results have been reported regarding the association between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). We assessed the cardiometabolic phenotype and prevalence of CVD in middle‐aged women with PCOS, compared with age‐matched controls from the general population, and estimated 10‐year CVD risk and cardiovascular health score.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Participants

200 women aged >45 with PCOS, and 200 age‐matched controls.

Measurements

Anthropometrics, insulin, lipid levels, prevalence of metabolic syndrome and type II diabetes. Ten‐year Framingham risk score and the cardiovascular health score were calculated, and carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT) was measured.

Results

Mean age was 50.5 years (SD = 5.5) in women with PCOS and 51.0 years (SD = 5.2) in controls. Increased waist circumference, body mass index and hypertension were more often observed in women with PCOS (P < .001). In women with PCOS, the prevalence of type II diabetes and metabolic syndrome was not significantly increased and lipid levels were not different from controls. cIMT was lower in women with PCOS (P < .001). Calculated cardiovascular health and 10‐year CVD risk were similar in women with PCOS and controls.

Conclusions

Middle‐aged women with PCOS exhibit only a moderately unfavourable cardiometabolic profile compared to age‐matched controls, even though they present with an increased BMI and waist circumference. Furthermore, we found no evidence for increased (10‐year) CVD risk or more severe atherosclerosis compared with controls from the general population. Long‐term follow‐up of women with PCOS is necessary to provide a definitive answer concerning long‐term risk for CVD.
Anhedonia across borders: Transdiagnostic relevance of reward dysfunction for noninvasive brain stimulation endophenotypes
Authors: Spano Maria Chiara , Lorusso Marco , Pettorruso Mauro , Zoratto Francesca , Di Giuda Daniela , Martinotti Giovanni , di Giannantonio Massimo
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Anhedonia is a transdiagnostic psychopathological dimension, consisting in the impaired ability to experience pleasure. In order to further our understanding of its neural correlates and to explore its potential relevance as a predictor of treatment response, in this article we systematically reviewed studies involving anhedonia and neuromodulation interventions, across different disorders.

Methods

We included seven studies fulfilling inclusion/exclusion criteria and involving different measures of anticipatory and consummatory anhedonia, as well as different noninvasive brain stimulation interventions (transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation). Studies not exploring hedonic measures or not involving neuromodulation intervention were excluded.

Results

All the included studies entailed the use of rTMS protocols in one of the diverse prefrontal targets. The limited amount of studies and the heterogeneity of stimulation protocols did not allow to draw any conclusion with regard to the efficacy of rTMS in the treatment of transnosographic anhedonia. A potential for anhedonia in dissecting possible endophenotypes of different psychopathological conditions preliminarily emerged.

Conclusions

Anhedonia is an underexplored condition in neuromodulation trials. It may represent a valuable transdiagnostic dimension that requires further examination in order to discover new clinical predictors for treatment response.
Worker Activism and Enterprise Union Reform in China: A Case Study of Grassroots Union Agency in the Auto Parts Industry
Authors: Zhang Lu , Yang Tao
Published: October 2019

Research on Chinese trade unions has privileged a state‐centred, structuralist approach, while the question of union agency has remained undertheorized. Seeking to overcome this limitation, this article examines the agency, the strategies and practice, and the limits and potentials of enterprise union reform in China's auto parts industry driven by worker activism since the wave of auto strikes in 2010. Drawing on in‐depth fieldwork conducted in Guangzhou and Chongqing between 2011 and 2017, the authors reveal variegated but constrained grassroots union agency and identify four key factors to explain the variations in the operation and reform of enterprise unions. Contrary to the common perception that Chinese trade unions are of no value to workers, the authors argue that, driven by worker activism and under specific circumstances, democratically elected enterprise unions are able to exploit certain operational space within the existing political and institutional constraints to carry out substantive collective bargaining and adaptive, incremental reforms, which have improved workers’ material well‐being and union representativeness and effectiveness. However, given the authoritarian regime and state‐controlled union structure, the space for grassroots union agency is severely restricted and contingent on broader political and economic environments. With growing state repression, the future of worker‐driven grassroots union reform is unclear.
Curing an old gastrocolic fistula using an endoscopic submucosal incision and a purse suture
Authors: Tao Zhang , Zhou Xiaoqing , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2019

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Oral semaglutide for type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Avgerinos Ioannis , Michailidis Theodoros , Liakos Aris , Karagiannis Thomas , Matthews David R. , Tsapas Apostolos , Bekiari Eleni
Published: October 2019

Aim

To assess the efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide, a novel glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, for patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library and grey literature sources up to July 1, 2019 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing oral semaglutide with placebo or other antidiabetic agents. The primary outcome was change from baseline in HbA1c. Secondary outcomes included change from baseline in body weight and blood pressure, cardiovascular endpoints, severe hypoglycaemia, gastrointestinal adverse events and diabetic retinopathy. We synthesized results using weighted mean differences (WMDs) for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous outcomes, along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

We included 11 RCTs with 9890 patients in the systematic review. Compared with placebo, oral semaglutide reduced HbA1c and body weight (WMD –0.89%, 95% CI −1.07 to −0.71 and − 2.99 kg, 95% CI −3.69 to −2.30, respectively). Oral semaglutide was also superior to other active comparators (including liraglutide, empagliflozin and sitaglipitin) in terms of lowering HbA1c (WMD –0.35%, 95% CI −0.43 to −0.26) and reduction of body weight (WMD −1.48 kg, 95% CI −2.28 to −0.67), and had a favourable effect on systolic blood pressure. Compared with placebo, oral semaglutide reduced all‐cause mortality (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.92) and cardiovascular mortality (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.98), and had a neutral effect on myocardial infarction, stroke, severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic retinopathy. However, treatment with oral semaglutide increased the incidence of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, while events of acute pancreatitis were rare.

Conclusions

Oral semaglutide can effectively and safely reduce blood glucose, body weight and systolic blood pressure. Nevertheless, it is associated with increased incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events. Further research is needed to clarify its long‐term safety and comparative effectiveness against other antidiabetic agents.
Survey completeness of a global citizen‐science database of bird occurrence
Authors: La Sorte Frank A. , Somveille Marius
Published: October 2019

Measuring the completeness of survey inventories created by citizen‐science initiatives can identify the strengths and shortfalls in our knowledge of where species occur geographically. Here, we use occurrence information from eBird to measure the survey completeness of the world's birds in this database at three temporal resolutions and four spatial resolutions across the annual cycle during the period 2002 to 2018. Approximately 84% of the earth's terrestrial surface contained bird occurrence information with the greatest concentrations occurring in North America, Europe, India, Australia and New Zealand. The largest regions with low levels of survey completeness were located in central South America, northern and central Africa, and northern Asia. Across spatial and temporal resolutions, survey completeness in regions with occurrence information was 55–74% on average, with the highest values occurring at coarser temporal and coarser spatial resolutions and during spring migration within temperate and boreal regions. Across spatial and temporal resolutions, survey completeness exceeded 90% within ca 4–14% of the earth's terrestrial surface. Survey completeness increased globally from 2002 to 2018 across all months of the year at a rate of ca 3% yr–1. The slowest gains occurred in Africa and in montane regions, and the most rapid gains occurred in India and in tropical forests after 2012. Thus, occurrence information from a global citizen‐science program for a charismatic and well‐studied taxon was geographically broad but contained heterogeneous patterns of survey completeness that were strongly influenced by temporal and especially spatial resolution. Our results identify regions where the application of additional effort would address current knowledge shortfalls, and regions where the maintenance of existing effort would benefit long‐term monitoring efforts. Our findings highlight the potential of citizen science initiatives to further our knowledge of where species occur across space and time, information whose applications under global change will likely increase.
Multispectral canopy reflectance improves spatial distribution models of Amazonian understory species
Authors: doninck Jasper Van , Jones Mirkka M. , Zuquim Gabriela , Ruokolainen Kalle , Moulatlet Gabriel M. , Sirén Anders , Cárdenas Glenda , Lehtonen Samuli , Tuomisto Hanna
Published: October 2019

Species distribution models are required for the research and management of biodiversity in the hyperdiverse tropical forests, but reliable and ecologically relevant digital environmental data layers are not always available. We here assess the usefulness of multispectral canopy reflectance (Landsat) relative to climate data in modelling understory plant species distributions in tropical rainforests. We used a large dataset of quantitative fern and lycophyte species inventories across lowland Amazonia as the basis for species distribution modelling (SDM). As predictors, we used CHELSA climatic variables and canopy reflectance values from a recent basin‐wide composite of Landsat TM/ETM+ images both separately and in combination. We also investigated how species accumulate over sites when environmental distances were expressed in terms of climatic or surface reflectance variables. When species accumulation curves were constructed such that differences in Landsat reflectance among the selected plots were maximised, species accumulated faster than when climatic differences were maximised or plots were selected in a random order. Sixty‐nine species were sufficiently frequent for species distribution modelling. For most of them, adequate SDMs were obtained whether the models were based on CHELSA data only, Landsat data only or both combined. Model performance was not influenced by species’ prevalence or abundance. Adding Landsat‐based environmental data layers overall improved the discriminatory capacity of SDMs compared to climate‐only models, especially for soil specialist species. Our results show that canopy surface reflectance obtained by multispectral sensors can provide studies of tropical ecology, as exemplified by SDMs, much higher thematic (taxonomic) detail than is generally assumed. Furthermore, multispectral datasets complement the traditionally used climatic layers in analyses requiring information on environmental site conditions. We demonstrate the utility of freely available, global remote sensing data for biogeographical studies that can aid conservation planning and biodiversity management.
Comparing the plant–herbivore network topology of different insect guilds in Neotropical savannas
Authors: Oliveira J.B.B.S. , Faria Maurício L. , Borges Magno A.Z , Fagundes Marcílio , de Araújo Walter S.
Published: October 2019

1. Herbivorous insects can be classified into several trophic guilds with different levels of specialisation on their host plants, which may influence the topological structure of their trophic networks. The present study tested the hypothesis that the structure of plant–herbivore networks differs between guilds of galling, sucking, and chewing insects.

2. Six areas of Neotropical savannas were studied in two localities in the North of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. In each area, interactions between plant and insect species were used to build networks for different guilds.

3. In total, 18 plant–herbivore networks were built, comprising 317 insect morphospecies, 50 plant species, and 489 distinct interactions. The networks were characterised using species richness and different network topological measures (connectance, modularity, nestedness, and specialisation).

4. The results obtained showed no difference in species richness, network size, and connectance between distinct insect herbivore guilds. However, it was found that modularity was higher for exophagous than galling insect networks and nestedness was higher for chewers than for other guilds. On the other hand, galling insect networks showed higher specialisation than exophagous insect networks, and sucking insect networks were more specialised than chewing insect networks.

5. The findings of the present study indicate that, although species richness did not differ between insect guilds of herbivores in Neotropical savannas, the topological structure of networks is sensitive to biological and ecological differences between these herbivore groups. The present study stands out as the first to systematically compare the network structure of different herbivore guilds in Neotropical savannas.
Sublethal effect of Beauveria bassiana on feeding and fecundity of the sunn pest, Eurygaster integriceps Puton (Hemiptera: Scutelleridae)
Authors: Trissi A. N. , El‐Bouhssini M. , Skinner M. , Parker B. L.
Published: October 2019

The sunn pest, Eurygaster integriceps Puton, is a major pest of wheat in West and Central Asia. Studies were conducted to investigate the effect of Beauveria bassiana (teleomorph; Cordyceps bassiana) isolates on the sunn pest. Bioassays were done with adult insects collected from overwintering sites at three different times. The effect of sublethal doses of fungi on the insects’ feeding and fecundity was determined. When the sunn pest adults were treated with 2 × 107 conidia mL−1, all isolates caused significant sunn pest mortality varying between 24 and 100% 12 days after inoculation. There were significant differences between mortality, depending on the date of fungal application. Adult sunn pests treated with B. bassiana at sublethal concentrations caused significantly less damage to wheat leaves than sunn pests in the control. The number of eggs laid by the sunn pest was significantly fewer when wheat plots in plastic greenhouse and field cages were infested with adult sunn pests treated at sublethal concentrations, compared with sunn pests in control plots. Results show that sublethal dosages of B. bassiana reduced sunn pest feeding and fecundity. Applying B. bassiana in sunn pest overwintering sites minimizes the pest populations, which would move to wheat fields in spring.
Allodynia in Menstrually Related Migraine: Score Assessment by Allodynia Symptom Checklist (ASC‐12)
Authors: Melhado Eliana Meire , Thiers Rister Hýkaro Leonelli , Galego Débora Renata , de Oliveira Arão Belitardo , Buttarello Isadora Abib , Belucio Inaê Silveira , Oliveira Marcos Juliana Maria , Xavier Maria Luiza Tonhá , Peres Mário Fernando Prieto
Published: October 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the allodynia score in headache attacks related and not related to menstruation in women diagnosed with menstrually related migraine without aura.

Background

Allodynia is an important symptom in migraine and has been associated with migraine chronification. No study has yet compared prospectively allodynia in menstrual vs non‐menstrual attacks within the same cohort of patients.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study, where participants had the 12‐item Allodynia Symptom Checklist (ASC‐12) assessed after 1, 2, 4, and 24 hours from the onset of migraine attacks in 2 different conditions, with menstrual migraine attack (MM+) and with non‐menstrual migraine attack (MM−).

Results

A total of 600 women with headache complaints were screened from March 2013 to July 2014 in a headache outpatient or headache tertiary clinic. From these, 55 participants were recruited, and 32 completed the study. Participants' mean age was 27 years, BMI was 22.1, menarche age 12 years, migraine history was 11.5 years, and most women were young (ranged from 17 to 44 years of age), were in higher school (13/32 = 41%), single (20/32 = 63%), and used contraceptives (22/32 = 69%). Multiple pairwise comparisons of ANCOVA's test showed significant higher ASC‐12 scores in MM+ group compared to MM− group at 2 hours [mean, 95% CI of difference: 2.3 (0.31, 4.7), P = .049)]. For the ASC‐12 categorical scores (absent, mild, moderate, and severe) MM+ yielded higher scores than MM− at 1 hour (z = −3.08, P = .021) and 4 hours (z = −2.97, P = .03).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that in the patents from tertiary headache center assessed, menstrual‐related migraine attacks augment allodynia scores in the beginning of attacks compared to non‐menstrual migraine attacks.
Evaluation of residual stresses during brazing of Al2O3‐ZrO2 to cemented tungsten carbide
Authors: Contarato Flavien , Bach Murielle , Krier Joël , Gobled Anne , Mille Pierre
Published: October 2019

In the context of the assembly of a cutting tool for wood machining, this article proposes to evaluate the residual stress in a ceramic plate (Al2O3‐ZrO2) induced by a brazing step with a cemented tungsten carbide (WC‐Co) through a brazing filler (Ag‐Cu‐Ti). The residual stresses were evaluated using neutron and X‐ray diffraction method. Moreover, a mathematical model was used in the case of a three layer assembly, which is based on mechanical properties such as: the thermal coefficient, the Young's modulus, the Poisson's ratio and the thickness of each layer. The observation of the chemical mapping of the brazing filler before and after the assembly, using energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), showed the chemical migration of the titanium to the ceramic oxide and the tungsten carbide. It was estimated that the brazed assembly is under a flexural stress, with a maximum in a compressive stress area near the brazing joint which reaches 85.6 MPa. This stress value reaches 12% of the bending strength allowed by the ceramic (716 MPa). The discussion proposes to highlight the limits of each method. The mathematical model has however shown good accuracy to give a first estimated residual stress in the ceramic plate.
A narrative review on the consultation tools available for pharmacists in the United Kingdom: do they facilitate person-centred care?
Authors: Da Costa Daniel L , Corlett Sarah A , Dodds Linda J
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To identify consultation tools cited in the published literature and undertake a narrative review which establishes their scope to support the delivery of person-centred medicine-focused consultations between community pharmacists and patients in the United Kingdom (UK).

Key findings

Nine consultation tools used in a pharmacy context were identified. Four tools (Calgary-Cambridge guide, MRCF, MUR and NMS advanced services and PaCT) were selected for further appraisal. None of the tools identified provided a suitable format or sufficient guidance to address all components required for the delivery of a person-centred patient consultation in practice.

Tools available to UK pharmacists are inadequate for fully supporting delivery of a person-centred consultation in practice. Revision of existing tools or creation of more pharmacy-specific tools will support UK pharmacists' delivery of person-centred consultations in practice.
Urbanisation lowers great titParus majorbreeding success at multiple spatial scales
Authors: de Satgé Jacques , Strubbe Diederik , Elst Joris , De Laet Jenny , Adriaensen Frank , Matthysen Erik
Published: October 2019

While numerous studies have reported negative effects of urbanisation on birds, few have examined the role of urban scale in influencing breeding success. Furthermore, many studies have relied on qualitative rather than quantitative assessments of urbanisation. This study sought to address these issues by testing the effects of urbanisation, measured at two spatial scales, on the breeding success of great titsParus major. A nested study design, incorporating over 400 nestboxes, was used in study sites across northern Belgium with a priori quantified degrees of urbanisation at both local and regional scales. All measured breeding parameters were found to vary at one or both spatial scales of urbanisation; in more urbanised areas great tits displayed advanced laying dates but lower breeding success compared to rural areas, with smaller clutch sizes, lower nestling masses and fewer fledglings per egg. Importantly, urbanisation effects were not limited to big cities as birds breeding in gardens or parks in small towns also had comparatively low success. We found that both regional‐ and local‐scale urbanisation had consistent significant effects on laying date, clutch size and nestling mass, while the number of fledglings per egg was negatively influenced by local‐scale urbanisation only. Results of this study therefore highlight the importance of utilising multiple spatial scales in analysing urbanisation effects, as well as the potential negative impact of local urbanisation on breeding success. This calls for further investigation into mechanisms driving urbanisation effects and how these may vary at different scales.
Strategy of catheter ablation for para‐Hisian premature ventricular contractions with the assistance of remote magnetic navigation
Authors: Xie Yun , Jin Qi , Zhang Ning , Liu Ao , Xing Chaofan , Jia Kangni , Wei Yue , Bao Yangyang , Luo Qingzhi , Lin Changjian , Ling Tianyou , Chen Kang , Pan Wenqi , Wu Liqun
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Catheter ablation of frequent para‐Hisian premature ventricular contractions (PH‐PVCs) is considered to be challenging. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the strategy, potential technical advantages, and clinical outcomes of remote magnetic navigation (RMN) in the ablation of PH‐PVCs.

Methods

Fifteen consecutive patients with PH‐PVCs were included in this study. Electrical mapping was initially performed in the right ventricular septum by manipulating the RMN catheter with a “U‐curve.” In the case of no optimal ablation site or ablation failure, the ablation catheter was directed to the left ventricular (LV) septum through a transseptal approach for further mapping and ablation by manipulating the RMN catheter with a “reverse S‐curve.”

Results

Nine of 15 patients were submitted to ablation on the right side. However, ablation success was only achieved in only three (33%) cases. Of the other 12 patients, 11 underwent LV mapping and ablation. In this subset, 9 of 11 (82%) PH‐PVCs were totally eliminated on the left side. Overall, RMN‐guided mapping and ablation successfully eliminated 12 (80%) of 15 idiopathic PH‐PVCs. During follow‐up, the reoccurrence of PVCs was reported in 1 (8%) of 12 patients. No atrioventricular block was observed during or after the procedure.

Conclusion

RMN‐guided catheter ablation for PH‐PVCs is effective and safe in unselected patients. Due to the excellent reachability and contact with special morphologies of the RMN catheter on both sides of the ventricular septum, RMN can be considered an effective approach for frequent PH‐PVCs.
Expression level of EGFR and MET receptors regulates invasiveness of melanoma cells
Authors: Pietraszek‐Gremplewicz Katarzyna , Simiczyjew Aleksandra , Dratkiewicz Ewelina , Podgórska Marta , Styczeń Ilona , Matkowski Rafał , Ziętek Marcin , Nowak Dorota
Published: October 2019

Epidermal and hepatocyte growth factors can stimulate invasive abilities of melanoma cells, while treatment with combination of their receptors' (EGFR and MET, respectively) inhibitors reduces viability of these cells, as we have previously shown. Proposed therapy has potential; however, used drugs block more than one goal effectively, what raises the question about the real target of analysed inhibitors. For this reason, we analysed direct involvement of these receptors in the invasion of melanoma cells inducing EGFR and MET up‐ and down‐regulations in examined cells. Results were acquired with assays evaluating cell migration and invasion (scratch wound assay, Transwell filter‐based method and single‐cell tracking). We revealed that cells' motile abilities are increased after EGFR overexpression and decreased following EGFR and MET silencing. This outcome correlates with elevated (EGFR up‐regulation) or reduced (EGFR/MET down‐regulation) number of formed invadopodia, visualized with immunofluorescence, and their rate of proteolytic abilities, evaluated by fluorescent gelatin degradation assay, and gelatin zymography, compared to control cells. Above‐mentioned data indicate that both—EGFR and MET signalling is directly connected with melanoma cells invasion, what establishes these receptors as promising targets for anti‐cancer treatment.