bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Youth earnings and labour market volatility in Europe
Authors: AYLLÓN Sara , RAMOS Xavier
Published: April 2019

The authors provide new evidence on youth earnings and labour market volatility, including flows into and out of employment, across Europe during the Great Recession. EU‐SILC data for the period 2004–13 reveal large disparities in volatility levels and trends across European countries. As expected, the Great Recession increased youth labour market volatility, offsetting the trends observed over the previous years of economic prosperity. A variance decomposition exercise points to greater exposure to worker turnover in southern Europe. Fixed effects regression on labour market institutions relates higher unemployment benefits and more stringent employment protection legislation to lower earnings and labour market volatility.
Measuring and understanding trade in service tasks
Authors: CHIQUIAR Daniel , TOBAL Martín , YSLAS Renato
Published: April 2019

The revolution in information and communications technologies has put service tasks with strong tradability characteristics at high risk of being offshored. This article reviews studies proposing indicators of service tradability, exploring the labour market implications of service offshoring and developing theories to rationalize the facts. It suggests that both skill intensity and tradability are determinants of wage and employment effects. Nonetheless, the lack of widely accepted definitions of tradability, the absence of high‐quality data on service trade flows and the difficulty of measuring import competition at higher disaggregation levels pose difficulties in achieving further progress, pointing to areas for future research.
Des approches innovantes pour assurer l'accès des travailleurs domestiques au travail décent en Côte d'Ivoire: ce que l'administration du travail et le système judiciaire ont pu faire dans le cadre du régime général du Code du travail
Authors: BLACKETT Adelle , KONÉ‐SILUÉ Assata
Published: April 2019

Peut‐on assurer l'accès des travailleurs domestiques au travail décent dans le cadre du droit général? Pour le savoir, les auteures procèdent à une analyse contextuelle de la jurisprudence ivoirienne (1971–2013) et s'entretiennent avec des acteurs institutionnels du pays. Des pratiques innovantes apparaissent, qui découlent de l'intervention d'inspecteurs et de juges attentifs, agissant principalement dans le cadre du Code du travail. Cependant, l'absence de réglementation spécifique pose certains problèmes, le travail domestique, travail «comme les autres», étant aussi un travail «à nul autre pareil». Les auteures appellent par conséquent à la création d'une communauté du savoir internationale sur l'accès des travailleurs domestiques au travail décent.
Commerce et emploi en Europe: le rôle des exportations de services «mode 5»
Authors: RUEDA‐CANTUCHE José M. , CERNAT Lucian , SOUSA Nuno
Published: April 2019

Dans l'UE, l'emploi lié aux exportations extracommunautaires de biens et de services a augmenté sensiblement ces dernières décennies, et la contribution à cet emploi des services incorporés dans des articles manufacturés s'est élevée. Pour mieux comprendre le phénomène, les auteurs procèdent à une décomposition systématique des flux commerciaux, en utilisant un modèle entrées‐sorties multirégional et des données de la base WIOD. L'analyse porte sur 40 pays et 35 branches d'activité, suivis de 1995 à 2011. Elle tend à remettre en question la classification en quatre modes de fourniture de services de l'Accord général sur le commerce des services, qui ne reflète plus la réalité actuelle.
Pour une science économique au service du droit au travail
Authors: BRANCO Manuel C.
Published: April 2019

Pour l'auteur, l'importance toute relative accordée au droit au travail, un principe pourtant consacré dès 1966 au niveau international, est le corollaire d'une doxa économique qui fait du travail un coût, de l'emploi un objectif de second rang, des individus des ressources, définies par leurs spécificités productives, et des droits des rigidités. Une économie fondée sur les droits de l'homme et protectrice du droit au travail doit défendre ce principe plus largement que par la seule lutte contre le chômage. Elle doit considérer le plein emploi comme une fin en soi et placer l'individu au centre.
Barreras comerciales y empleo en las cadenas mundiales de suministro
Authors: KÜHN Stefan , VIEGELAHN Christian
Published: April 2019

A partir de estimaciones de la OIT del empleo en las cadenas mundiales de suministro, se estudia el impacto de las barreras al comercio de bienes y servicios sobre los empleos nacionales. El análisis empírico confirma las predicciones de un modelo teórico calibrado con datos de la WIOD para 2000 y 2011. Las barreras al comercio de bienes y servicios tienen un impacto transfronterizo sobre los empleos del sector directamente afectado y efectos indirectos sobre otros sectores que aumentan con el tiempo. La creciente interconexión entre países y sectores en las cadenas mundiales de suministro implica que las políticas comerciales pueden tener importantes efectos sobre los mercados de trabajo de otros países.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis on the effectiveness of education on medication adherence for patients with hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and diabetes
Authors: Tan Jinhan Pamala , Cheng Karis Kin Fong , Siah Rosalind Chiew‐Jiat
Published: April 2019

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving medication adherence among adult patients diagnosed with hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and/or diabetes.

Design

This review was conducted with reference to methods set out in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42016053402).

Data Sources

A search from seven electronic databases (2003–2016).

Review Method

The quality of evidence and strength of the studies was evaluated systematically, followed by an assessment of risks of bias by two reviewers with the Cochrane Collaboration's tool.

Results

Eighteen randomized controlled trials demonstrated a low to moderate quality evidence on the improvements of medication adherence with educational interventions. Participants with type 2 diabetes benefited from education interventions but not those with hypertension. No randomized controlled trials (RCT) was found for participants with hyperlipidaemia. Education that was conducted at home showed better medication adherence than education conducted in clinics. Medication adherence was improved after two to three sessions but no significant differences found after three sessions.

Conclusion

Through education, health literacy is improved, thus improving medication adherence.

Impact

A plethora of educational interventions have been implemented in the clinical settings, but no reviews have hitherto been conducted on their effectiveness. This review suggested that education improves health literacy which is directly proportionate to optimal disease management including medication adherence. The suggestions proposed in this review may impact the individual in terms of their adherence to medication to tackle exacerbation and relapse of chronic diseases and also proposed suggestions for future implementation of an education intervention.
AMP‐activated protein kinase regulates cancer cell growth and metabolism via nuclear and mitochondria events
Authors: Jiang Shanshan , Wang Yan , Luo Lingyu , Shi Fuli , Zou Junrong , Lin Hui , Ying Ying , Luo Yunfei , Zhan Zhan , Liu Peijun , Zhu Bo , Huang Deqiang , Luo Zhijun
Published: April 2019

Adenine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a fuel sensing enzyme that is activated in shortage of energy and inhibited in its surplus. Cancer is a metabolic disease characteristic of aerobic glycolysis, namely Warburg effect, and possesses heterogeneity featured by spatiotemporal hypoxia and normoxia, where AMPK is deeply implicated. The present study delineates the regulation of mitochondrial functions by AMPK in cancer cells. On the one hand, AMPKα subunit binds to mitochondria independently of β subunit and targeting AMPK to mitochondria facilitates oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid oxidation, and inhibits glycolysis. As such, mitochondrial AMPK inhibits the growth of cancer cells and tumorigenesis. On the other hand, ablation of the β subunits completely abolishes AMPK activity and simultaneously leads to decreases in mitochondria DNA and protein contents. The effect of the β deletion is rescued by overexpression of the active mutant of bulky AMPKα1 subunit. In conjunction, the transcriptional factors PGC1α and Nrf‐1 are up‐regulated by LKB1/AMPK, an event that is abolished in the absence of the β subunits. Intriguingly, the stimulation of mitochondria biogenesis is not achieved by mitochondria‐targeted AMPK. Therefore, our study suggests that AMPK inhibits cancer cell growth and tumorigenesis via regulation of mitochondria‐mediated metabolism.
Lack of social preference between unfamiliar and familiar juvenile Port Jackson sharksHeterodontus portusjacksoni
Authors: Vila Pouca Catarina , Brown Culum
Published: April 2019

This study investigated whether captive‐reared juvenile Port Jackson sharksHeterodontus portusjacksonichoose to aggregate and if familiarity is one of the mechanisms driving social preference. In a controlled binary‐choice experiment, juvenile sharks were given the option to associate or not with unfamiliar conspecifics, or to associate or not with familiar conspecifics. In neither group did juvenileH. portusjacksoniactively choose to associate with conspecifics, but familiarity decreased the proportion of time spent near a conspecific only during the initial phase of the experiment. Treatment (1 or 3 shoal mates), sex and size had no effect on aggregation behaviour. These findings suggest that familiarity is not a driver of social preferences in juvenileH. portusjacksoni, contrary to results in another shark species. Additionally, adultH. portusjacksoniform large aggregations during the breeding season and actively associate with familiar sex and size‐matched individuals, thus our results suggest the species undergoes an ontogenetic shift in social behaviour.
Thermal properties of fresh and dried cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) fruits determined by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis
Authors: Ropelewska Ewa
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to determine selected thermal properties of cranberries based on DSC and TGA curves, and to compare the properties of fresh cranberries, the dry matter of cranberries, cranberries processed by hot‐air convective drying (HACD) at 80°C, and cranberries processed by microwave‐vacuum drying (MWVD) at 150 W. Thermal analysis techniques can be used to determine the thermal stability of fruits and indicate the best temperature of processing, which can minimize the thermal‐oxidative damage, as well as extend the shelf life of fruits. Dry matter of cranberries was analyzed at −30°C to 500°C. The first endothermic peak was determined at −14.7°C, the last endothermic peak at 362.3°C. The area under the DSC curve was 874.8 J/g, and mass loss was 64.70%. The temperature of the first and last endothermic peak was determined at 4.8 and 84.6°C (fresh fruits), −10.6°C and 86.0°C (HACD), 2.0°C, and 84.5°C (MWVD), respectively. The area under the DSC curve was determined at 4970.0 J/g (fresh fruits), 525.1 J/g (HACD), and 518.5 J/g (MWVD), and mass loss reached 65.54% (fresh fruits), 1.84% (HACD), and 4.27% (MWVD).

Practical applications

The results of this study expand our knowledge about the thermal properties of the dry matter of cranberries, fresh cranberries, cranberries processed by hot‐air convective drying (HACD) at 80°C and by microwave‐vacuum drying (MWVD) at 150 W. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) proved to be a useful technique for determining the temperature of endothermic phase transition peaks and the area under the DSC curve of cranberries. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) supported the determination of mass loss during the measurements. Processing of food products, including drying can change their thermophysical and chemical properties. These changes can affect the thermal stability of dried products, which can be seen in the course of DSC and TGA curves. In this study, the temperature, at which the phase transitions of cranberries occur, was indicated. On this basis, the optimal processing temperature can be selected to preserve the berries content. The best temperature of fruit processing can minimize the thermal‐oxidative damage and extend shelf life of cranberries. Similar thermal stability of cranberries dried by hot‐air convection (HACD) at 80°C, and fruits dried by microwave‐vacuum (MWVD) at 150 W was found. The obtained findings can be further expanded by calculating the specific heat of cranberries.
Importance and prior considerations for development and utilization of tea bags: A critical review
Authors: Bassi Pratishtha , Kumar Vikas , Kumar Satish , Kaur Sawinder , Gat Yogesh , Majid Ishrat
Published: April 2019

The improvement of socio‐economic status have witnessed an increase in demand of tea bags with different attributes including consumer preferences, blended nutraceutical ingredients in small sachets, ease of handling, and profit to both consumers and producers. The share of tea bags is 3–4% to total tea sale in market and is the fastest growing segment with 50–60% growth per year in India. Type of raw material (tea, herbs alone or in combination) used for preparation of tea bags is the most crucial factor to affect their success in market, while some other factors which can affect the ultimate acceptability of tea bags by consumers includes diffusion rate, extraction efficiency, phyto‐chemical potential, loading size of the bag, and safety aspects. The prior considerations include important parameters like type of paper used, its pore size, shape, loading capacity, infusion rate, holding time, temperature, and so forth. Tea bag industry is highly regularized and bodies like FSSAI have floated some strict guidelines, which need to be followed while developing the tea bag (normal tea or flavored tea) besides the prior considerations.

Practical application

Present review has been aimed to provide a critical overview of considerations as required for development of tea bags along with the future opportunities and potential thrust areas with the aim of effective and economic delivery to the consumers.
Mental health and behavioural problems in children with XXYY: a comparison with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Srinivasan R. , Wolstencroft J. , Erwood M. , Raymond F. L. , van den Bree M. , Hall J. , Skuse D. ,   IMAGINE ID Consortium
Published: April 2019

Background

The phenotype of children with XXYY has predominantly been defined by comparison to other sex chromosome aneuploidies trisomies affecting male children; however, the intellectual ability of children with XXYY is lower than children with other sex chromosome aneuploidies trisomies. It is not known to what extent the phenotype identified to date is specific to XXYY, rather than a reflection of lower IQ. This study evaluates the mental health and behaviour of children with XXYY, in comparison to children with intellectual disabilities of heterogeneous genetic origin.

Methods

Fifteen children with XXYY and 30 controls matched for age (4–14 years), sex and intellectual ability were ascertained from the IMAGINE ID study. IMAGINE ID participants have intellectual disabilities due to genetic anomalies confirmed by National Health Service Regional Genetic Centre laboratories. The mental health and behaviour of participants was examined with the Development and Well‐being Assessment and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire.

Results

Children with XXYY experienced significantly more frequent and intense temper outbursts than the control group.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that temper outbursts may be specifically associated with the XXYY phenotype. These problems have a significant impact on the daily lives of boys with XXYY and their families. It is crucial to ensure that families are well supported to manage these difficulties.
Measurement of physical activity in clinical practice using accelerometers
Authors: Arvidsson D. , Fridolfsson J. , Börjesson M.
Published: April 2019

Accelerometers are commonly used in clinical and epidemiological research for more detailed measures of physical activity and to target the limitations of self‐report methods. Sensors are attached at the hip, wrist and thigh, and the acceleration data are processed and calibrated in different ways to determine activity intensity, body position and/or activity type. Simple linear modelling can be used to assess activity intensity from hip and thigh data, whilst more advanced machine‐learning modelling is to prefer for the wrist. The thigh position is most optimal to assess body position and activity type using machine‐learning modelling. Frequency filtering and measurement resolution needs to be considered for correct assessment of activity intensity. Simple physical activity measures and statistical methods are mostly used to investigate relationship with health, but do not take advantage of all information provided by accelerometers and do not consider all components of the physical activity behaviour and their interrelationships. More advanced statistical methods are suggested that analyse patterns of multiple measures of physical activity to demonstrate stronger and more specific relationships with health. However, evaluations of accelerometer methods show considerable measurement errors, especially at individual level, which interferes with their use in clinical research and practice. Therefore, better objective methods are needed with improved data processing and calibration techniques, exploring both simple linear and machine‐learning alternatives. Development and implementation of accelerometer methods into clinical research and practice requires interdisciplinary collaboration to cover all aspects contributing to useful and accurate measures of physical activity behaviours related to health.
Alpha-linolenic acid ameliorates bronchial asthma features in ovalbumin-sensitized rats
Authors: Boskabady Mohammad Hossein , Kaveh Mahsa , Shakeri Farzaneh , Mohammadian Roshan Nama , Rezaee Ramin
Published: April 2019

Objectives

Effect of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced inflammation, oxidant/antioxidant imbalance and pathological features was examined in rat.

Methods

Total and differential WBC count and oxidant/antioxidant levels in BALF (bronchoalveolar lavage fluid) as well as lung pathological features were investigated in five groups of rats including controls (group C), rats sensitized with OVA (group S) and S treated with either ALA (0.2 and 0.4 mg/ml) or dexamethasone.

Key findings

As compared to group C, in OVA-sensitized rats, increases in WBC counts, levels of oxidant biomarkers and most pathological scores were observed while lymphocyte percentage and antioxidants levels decreased. Treatment with ALA (0.2 and 0.4 mg/ml) significantly reduced total WBC, NO2 and NO3 levels, interstitial fibrosis and emphysema compared to sensitized group. The higher dose of ALA also significantly decreased neutrophil, eosinophil, and monocyte counts, MDA levels and interstitial inflammation but increased lymphocyte counts, as well as antioxidants levels, compared to sensitized group. Dexamethasone administration led to a significant improvement of most factors compared to group S but had no effects on total WBC count, bleeding and epithelial damage.

Conclusions

Alpha-linolenic acid suppressed inflammation and oxidative stress, making it a potential therapeutic candidate for treatment of airway inflammatory diseases such as bronchial asthma.
l‐carnitine and fat type in the maternal diet during gestation and lactation modify the fatty acid composition and expression of lipid metabolism‐related genes in piglets
Authors: Shi Baoming , Zhao Xuan , Wang Chuanqi , Wang Na , Tian Meili , Shan Anshan
Published: April 2019

This study examined the influence of adding different amounts of maternal dietary l‐carnitine and two fat types on fatty acid (FA) composition and the expression of lipid metabolism‐related genes in piglets. The experiment was designed as a 2 × 2 factorial with two fat types (3.5% soyabean oil, SO, and 3.5% fish oil, FO) and two levels of l‐carnitine (0 and 100 mg/kg) added to the sows' diets. A higher proportion of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and a lower ratio of n‐6/n‐3 PUFA in sow milk and piglet tissues were observed in the FO groups than in the SO groups. Adding l‐carnitine increased the proportion of C16:1 in sow milk and decreased n‐3 PUFA in piglet subcutaneous fat. Hepatic peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPAR‐α) was more abundantly expressed in piglets from the FO groups than from the SO groups (p < 0.05), whereas stearoyl‐CoA‐desaturase (SCD), sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1 (SREBP1) and ∆6‐desaturase (D6D) genes were less expressed in the FO groups compared with piglets from the SO groups. The expression of fatty acid synthase (FAS) genes was decreased in the SO groups with l‐carnitine compared to that of the other dietary treatments. No differences among dietary treatments were observed with regard to the expression of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC). In conclusion, FO and l‐carnitine supplementation in sows affect FA composition and hepatic gene expression in piglets.
The immediate effects of weaning stress on the hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal alteration of newly weaned piglets
Authors: Yu Chien‐Ho , Chen Ching‐Yi , Chang Chih‐Cheng
Published: April 2019

This study was conducted to examine the effects of weaning stress on gene expression of specific markers in hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis and neuronal activity in the newly weaned piglets. Twelve 28‐days‐old, newly weaned crossbred (Landrace × Yorkshire × Duroc) male piglets from 6 l (2 piglets/l) were randomly categorized into two groups: (a) weaning stress: piglets were separated from their dams, relocated and mixed with the unacquainted domestic piglets for 2 hr (stress, n = 6); (b) no‐stress: piglets stayed with their dams in the farrowing house (NS; n = 6). After weaning stress, all piglets were electrically euthanized and the blood samples/HPA tissues were collected for subsequent analysis, including plasma cortisol and mRNA expression of c‐fos, c‐jun, corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH), CRH receptor 1 (CRHR‐1) and adrenocorticotropin hormone receptor (MC2R). Results: Weaning stress significantly (p < 0.05) increased the plasma cortisol level and suppressed the expression of c‐fos and CRH in hypothalamus. In addition, weaning stress enhanced the mRNA abundance of c‐jun and CRHR‐1 in the pituitary gland. No significant differences in the gene expression of MC2R and CRHR‐1 were observed in the adrenal gland between treatment groups. Taken together, HPA involved in weaning stress and CRHR‐1 and c‐jun could be potential markers to evaluate the activation of HPA axis.
Expansion history and environmental suitability shape effective population size in a plant invasion
Authors: Braasch Joseph , Barker Brittany S. , Dlugosch Katrina M.
Published: April 2019

The margins of an expanding range are predicted to be challenging environments for adaptation. Marginal populations should often experience low effective population sizes (Ne) where genetic drift is high due to demographic expansion and/or census population size is low due to unfavourable environmental conditions. Nevertheless, invasive species demonstrate increasing evidence of rapid evolution and potential adaptation to novel environments encountered during colonization, calling into question whether significant reductions in Ne are realized during range expansions in nature. Here we report one of the first empirical tests of the joint effects of expansion dynamics and environment on effective population size variation during invasive range expansion. We estimate contemporary values of Ne using rates of linkage disequilibrium among genome‐wide markers within introduced populations of the highly invasive plant Centaurea solstitialis (yellow starthistle) in North America (California, USA), and within native Eurasian populations. As predicted, we find that Ne within the invaded range is positively correlated with both expansion history (time since founding) and habitat quality (abiotic climate). History and climate had independent additive effects with similar effect sizes, indicating an important role for both factors in this invasion. These results support theoretical expectations for the population genetics of range expansion, though whether these processes can ultimately arrest the spread of an invasive species remains an unanswered question.
Archaeal biogeography and interactions with microbial community across complex subtropical coastal waters
Authors: Wang Kai , Hu Hanjing , Yan Huizhen , Hou Dandi , Wang Yanting , Dong Pengsheng , Zhang Demin
Published: April 2019

Marine Archaea are crucial in biogeochemical cycles, but their horizontal spatial variability, assembly processes, and microbial associations across complex coastal waters still lack characterizations at high coverage. Using a dense sampling strategy, we investigated horizontal variability in total archaeal, Thaumarchaeota Marine Group (MG) I, and Euryarchaeota MGII communities and associations of MGI/MGII with other microbes in surface waters with contrasting environmental characteristics across ~200 km by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Total archaeal communities were extremely dominated by MGI and/or MGII (98.9% in average relative abundance). Niche partitioning between MGI and MGII or within each group was found across multiple environmental gradients. “Selection” was more important than “dispersal limitation” in governing biogeographic patterns of total archaeal, MGI, and MGII communities, and basic abiotic parameters (such as salinity) and inorganic/organic resources as a whole could be the main driver of “selection”. While “homogenizing dispersal” also considerably governed their biogeography. MGI‐Nitrospira assemblages were speculatively responsible for complete nitrification. MGI taxa commonly had negative correlations with members of Synechococcus but positive correlations with members of eukaryotic phytoplankton, suggesting that competition or synergy between MGI and phytoplankton depends on specific MGI‐phytoplankton assemblages. MGII taxa showed common associations with presumed (photo)heterotrophs including members of SAR11, SAR86, SAR406, and Candidatus Actinomarina. This study sheds light on ecological processes and drivers shaping archaeal biogeography and many strong MGI/MGII‐bacterial associations across complex subtropical coastal waters. Future efforts should be made on seasonality of archaeal biogeography and biological, environmental, or ecological mechanisms underlying these statistical microbial associations.
Impact of optical coherence tomography on diagnostic decision‐making by UK community optometrists: a clinical vignette study
Authors: Jindal Anish , Ctori Irene , Fidalgo Bruno , Dabasia Priya , Balaskas Konstantinos , Lawrenson John G
Published: April 2019

Purpose

In recent years, there has been widespread investment in imaging technologies by community optometrists in the UK, most notably optical coherence tomography (OCT). The aim of the current study was to determine the value of OCT in the diagnosis of posterior segment diseases in a representative sample of community optometrists using a clinical vignette methodology.

Methods

A group of community optometrists (n = 50) initially completed a standardised training package on OCT interpretation followed by a computer‐based assessment featuring 52 clinical vignettes, containing images of healthy (n = 8) or glaucomatous (n = 18) discs or healthy (n = 8) or diseased (n = 18) fundi. Each vignette featured either a single fundus/disc photographic image, or a combination of a fundus/disc image with the corresponding OCT scan. An expert panel confirmed that the fundus images presented alone and those in combination with OCT data were of a similar level of difficulty and that the cases were typical of those seen in primary care. For each case, the optometrist selected their diagnosis from a pull‐down list and reported their confidence in their decision using a 10‐point Likert scale. Pairwise comparisons of the fundus image alone and fundus image/OCT combination were made for both diagnostic performance and confidence.

Results

The mean percentage of correct diagnoses using fundus imaging alone was 62% (95% CI 59–64%) and for the combination of fundus image/OCT was 80% (95% CI 77–82%). The mean false negative rate with fundus alone was 27% reducing to 13% with the OCT combination. Median confidence scores for fundus imaging alone was 8.0 (IQR 7.0–8.0) and 8.3 (IQR 8.0–9.0) for the combination. Improvements in performance and confidence were statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results from this vignette study suggests that OCT improves optometrists’ diagnostic performance compared to fundus observation alone. These initial results suggest that OCT provides valuable additional data that could augment case‐finding for glaucoma and retinal disease; however, further research is needed to assess its diagnostic performance in a routine clinical practice setting.
Enzyme Modification and Oxidative Cross‐linking Using Carboxylate‐, Phenol‐ and Catechol‐Conjugated 1,8‐Naphthalimides
Authors: Sova Stacey , Kelly Lisa A.
Published: April 2019

The ground‐ and excited‐state interactions of β‐alanine, tyrosine and l‐dopa substituted 1,8 naphthalimides (NI‐Ala, NI‐Tyr and NI‐Dopa) with lysozyme and mushroom tyrosinase were evaluated to understand the mechanism of oxidative modification. Photooxidative cross‐linking of lysozyme was observed for all three conjugates. The yield was significantly reduced for NI‐Tyr and NI‐Dopa due to intramolecular electron transfer to the excited singlet state of the 1,8‐naphthalimide. Incubation of NI‐Tyr and NI‐Dopa with mushroom tyrosinase resulted in an increased fluorescence from the naphthalimide, suggesting that the phenol and catechol portion of the conjugates are oxidized by the enzyme. This result demonstrates that the compounds bind in the active site of mushroom tyrosinase. The catalytic activity of mushroom tyrosinase to oxidize both tyrosine (monophenolase) and l‐dopa (diphenolase) was modified by NI‐Tyr and NI‐Dopa. Monophenolase activity was inhibited, and the diphenolase activity was enhanced in the presence of these conjugates. Detailed Michaelis–Menten studies show that both Vmax and Km are modified, consistent with a mixed inhibition mechanism. Collectively, the results show that the compounds interact in the enzyme's active site, but also modify the distribution of the enzyme's oxidation states that are responsible for catalysis.
Diversity of populations of Phytophthora infestans in relation to patterns of potato crop management in Latvia and Lithuania
Authors: Kiiker R. , Skrabule I. , Ronis A. , Cooke D. E. L. , Hansen J. G. , Williams I. H. , Mänd M. , Runno‐Paurson E.
Published: April 2019

Potato crop losses can be substantial when conditions for late blight (Phytophthora infestans) development and spread are favourable. In this study, drivers of differences between the P. infestans population structures in Latvia and Lithuania, two neighbouring countries with similar potato‐growing traditions, were investigated. Genotypes of P. infestans and population genetic diversity were analysed using a 12‐plex simple sequence repeat (SSR) marker assay. High genetic diversity was demonstrated in both populations, with population diversity being higher in Latvia. It would appear that local populations established from soilborne oospores early in the season are well adapted to the conditions in the region. However, somewhat greater spread and survival of local clones was detected in Lithuania, suggesting that potato cropping there is more vulnerable to clonal invasion than in Latvia. For effective disease management, current strategies should be adjusted according to the specific pathogen populations in the region, considering the reproduction and survival of the pathogen. Potato growers should implement late blight preventive measures such as longer field rotation to prevent oospore infections, especially in Latvia, and should use more disease resistant cultivars and high‐quality seed potatoes.
Does ISWT evaluate maximal exercise capacity in subjects with severe asthma?
Authors: Carvalho Celso R.F.
Published: April 2019

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Normal and keloid fibroblasts are differentially influenced by IFN‐γ and triamcinolone as well as by their combination
Authors: Euler Teresa , Valesky Eva M. , Meissner Markus , Hrgovic Igor , Kaufmann Roland , Kippenberger Stefan , Zöller Nadja N.
Published: April 2019

Impaired wound healing as well as imbalanced cell proliferation and extracellular matrix synthesis and degeneration can cause aberrant scarring. The most severe impacts of such scarring on patients' lives are stigmatization and physical restriction. Although, a broad variety of combinatorial approaches with, e.g., glucocorticoids, chemotherapeutics, and immunomodulators are used, there is still a high recurrence rate of keloids. The aim of this study was to investigate which influence interferon γ (IFN‐γ, 1.000–10.000 IU/mL) and/or triamcinolone acetonide (TA, 1 μg/mL) have on proliferation, cell viability, collagen type I synthesis, and cytokine secretion in healthy and keloid fibroblasts. It was shown that mono‐treatment with IFN‐γ or TA for 2 days induced a severe reduction of the proliferative potential in both cell species. The combinatory treatment (IFN‐γ plus TA) of keloid fibroblasts enhanced the anti‐proliferative effect of the mono‐treatments, whereas no additional anti‐proliferative effect was observed in normal fibroblasts. Furthermore, we observed that the combinatory treatment regimen reduced the expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), an actin isotype contributing to cell‐generated mechanical tension, in keloid fibroblasts. In normal fibroblasts, α‐SMA was reduced by the mono‐treatment with IFN‐γ as well as by the combinatory treatment. The analysis of collagen‐type I synthesis revealed that TA did not reduce collagen type I synthesis in normal fibroblasts but in keloid fibroblasts. IFN‐γ reduced in both cell species the collagen type I synthesis. The combination of TA and IFN‐γ intensified the previously observed collagen type I synthesis reduction in keloid fibroblasts. The herein presented data suggest the combinatory application of IFN‐γ and TA as a promising therapy concept for keloids.
Drag and Lift Characteristics of a Novel Elliptical-Bladed Savonius Rotor With Vent Augmenters
Authors: Alom Nur , Saha Ujjwal K.
Published: April 2019

Savonius rotor, a class of drag-driven vertical axis wind turbine, has been extensively investigated mainly to calculate the torque and power coefficients (CT and CP) by various investigators. Hitherto, studies related to lift and drag characteristics are very few and have mainly been restricted to a semicircular-bladed rotor. A deeper investigation into the drag and lift coefficients (CD and CL) can result in the better design of rotor blades leading to an increment in CT and CP. In view of this, in the present investigation, CD and CL of an elliptical-bladed rotor with vent augmenters have been studied numerically. Initially, two-dimensional (2D) unsteady simulations using an ansys fluent solver is carried out to estimate the instantaneous CD and CL. The shear stress transport (SST) k–ω turbulence model is selected to solve the Reynolds averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) equations. Finally, three-dimensional (3D) unsteady simulations are carried out for the vented elliptical-bladed rotor. The unsteady simulations are performed for the nonvented elliptical- and semicircular-bladed rotors at the identical condition in order to have a direct comparison. From the unsteady simulations, the average CD for the vented elliptical profile is found to be 1.45; whereas, the average CD for the nonvented elliptical and semicircular profiles is found to be 1.43 and 1.35, respectively.
Precipitation and temperature drive continental-scale patterns in stream invertebrate production
Authors: Patrick C. J. , McGarvey D. J. , Larson J. H. , Cross W. F. , Allen D. C. , Benke A. C. , Brey T. , Huryn A. D. , Jones J. , Murphy C. A. , Ruffing C. , Saffarinia P. , Whiles M. R. , Wallace J. B. , Woodward G.
Published: April 2019

Precipitation and temperature drive continental-scale patterns in stream invertebrate production.
Critical role of spectrin in hearing development and deafness
Authors: Liu Yan , Qi Jieyu , Chen Xin , Tang Mingliang , Chu Cenfeng , Zhu Weijie , Li Hui , Tian Cuiping , Yang Guang , Zhong Chao , Zhang Ying , Ni Guangjian , He Shuijin , Chai Renjie , Zhong Guisheng
Published: April 2019

Super-resolution fluorescence imaging reveals a previously unknown novel structure of spectrin in inner ear hair cells.
Olanzapine: A potent agonist at the hM4D(Gi) DREADD amenable to clinical translation of chemogenetics
Authors: Weston Mikail , Kaserer Teresa , Wu Angela , Mouravlev Alexandre , Carpenter Jenna C. , Snowball Albert , Knauss Samuel , von Schimmelmann Melanie , During Matthew J. , Lignani Gabriele , Schorge Stephanie , Young Deborah , Kullmann Dimitri M. , Lieb Andreas
Published: April 2019

The atypical antipsychotic olanzapine is a potent activator of a mutated muscarinic receptor used for chemogenetic inhibition.
Ergodicity reveals assistance and learning from physical human-robot interaction
Authors: Fitzsimons Kathleen , Acosta Ana Maria , Dewald Julius P. A. , Murphey Todd D.
Published: April 2019

A measure of task information encoded by motion identifies differences between movements that are not captured by standard measures.
Filamentous bacteriophages are associated with chronic
Pseudomonas
lung infections and antibiotic resistance in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Burgener Elizabeth B. , Sweere Johanna M. , Bach Michelle S. , Secor Patrick R. , Haddock Naomi , Jennings Laura K. , Marvig Rasmus L. , Johansen Helle Krogh , Rossi Elio , Cao Xiou , Tian Lu , Nedelec Laurence , Molin Søren , Bollyky Paul L. , Milla Carlos E.
Published: April 2019

Pseudomonas
strains that produce filamentous bacteriophage are associated with chronic infection and increased antibiotic resistance in patients with cystic fibrosis.
Complete Genome Sequence of Achromobacter spanius UQ283, a Soilborne Isolate Exhibiting Plant Growth-Promoting Properties
Authors: Wass Taylor J. , Syed-Ab-Rahman Sharifah Farhana , Carvalhais Lilia C. , Ferguson Brett J. , Schenk Peer M.
Published: April 2019

Achromobacter spanius
UQ283 is a soilborne bacterium found to exhibit plant growth-promoting and disease-suppressing attributes in several plant species. Accordingly, we used long-read sequencing to determine its complete genome sequence.
Genome Sequence of a Divergent Avian Metapneumovirus from a Monk Parakeet (
Myiopsitta monachus
)
Authors: Retallack Hanna , Clubb Susan , DeRisi Joseph L.
Published: April 2019

Here, we report the coding-complete genome sequence of an avian metapneumovirus from a monk parakeet (
Myiopsitta monachus
), identified by metagenomic next-generation sequencing during an investigation into a disease outbreak in a captive parrot breeding facility. Based on divergence from known strains, this sequence represents a new subgroup of avian metapneumovirus.
Whole-Genome Sequence of the Novel Rubrobacter taiwanensis Strain Yellowstone, Isolated from Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Freed Shawn , Ramaley Robert F. , Kyndt John A.
Published: April 2019

The family
Rubrobacteraceae
is often represented by its thermophilic and radiotolerant species.
Rubrobacter radiotolerans
and
Rubrobacter xylanophilus
have been extensively studied, contributing to defining the characteristics of the family.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pediococcus acidilactici Strain LPBC161, Isolated from Mature Coffee Cherries during Natural Fermentation
Authors: Muynarsk Elisângela S. M. , de Melo Pereira Gilberto V. , Mesa Dany , Thomaz-Soccol Vanete , Carvalho Júlio C. , Pagnoncelli Maria Giovana B. , Soccol Carlos Ricardo
Published: April 2019

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Pediococcus acidilactici
strain LPBC161, a lactic acid bacterium isolated from mature coffee cherries in Brazil. The genome sequence of
P. acidilactici
LPBC161 provides valuable information on the mechanisms of adaptation and metabolism of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in the environment and stressor factors of coffee processing.
Genome Sequence of Aeribacillus pallidus W-12, a Thermophilic Bacterium Containing Possible Biodesulfurization and Biodenitrification Pathways
Authors: Peng Chenchen , Zhang Bingling , Wang Wei
Published: April 2019

Aeribacillus pallidus
W-12 is a thermophilic bacterium isolated from Dagang oil reservoir sewage in northern China. The genome sequence of this strain reported here may provide insights into genomic characteristics regarding the biodegradation of organosulfur and organic nitrogen compounds under elevated temperature.
Genome Sequence of a Staphylococcus xylosus Clinical Isolate, Strain SMA0341-04 (UGA5), from Siaya County Referral Hospital in Siaya, Kenya
Authors: Cheng Qiuying , Xie Gary , Daligault Hajnalka , Davenport Karen , Gleasner Cheryl , Jacobs Lindsey , Kubicek-Sutherland Jessica , LeCuyer Tessa , Otieno Vincent , Raballah Evans , Doggett Norman , McMahon Benjamin , Perkins Douglas J. , Mukundan Harshini
Published: April 2019

We report here the genome sequence of a
Staphylococcus xylosus
clinical isolate, strain SMA0341-04 (UGA5), which contains one chromosome and at least one plasmid. Notably, strain SMA0341-04 (UGA5) contains the tetracycline efflux major facilitator superfamily (MFS) transporter (
tetK
) gene.
Radiation doses in diagnostic imaging for suspected physical abuse
Authors: Rao Raylene , Browne Diana , Lunt Brian , Perry David , Reed Peter , Kelly Patrick
Published: April 2019

Objective

To measure the actual radiation dose delivered by imaging techniques commonly used in the radiography of suspected physical abuse and to make this information available to health professionals and families.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively on children under 3 years referred for skeletal surveys for suspected physical abuse, non-contrast CT head scan or radionuclide imaging of the bones in Starship Children’s Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand from January to December 2015. Patient size-specific conversion coefficients were derived from International Commission on Radiologic Protection tissue weighting factors and used to calculate effective dose.

Results

Seventy-one patients underwent an initial skeletal survey, receiving a mean effective dose of 0.20 mSv (95% CI 0.18 to 0.22). Sixteen patients had a follow-up survey with a mean effective dose of 0.10 mSv (95% CI 0.08 to 0.11). Eighty patients underwent CT head which delivered a mean effective dose of 2.49 mSv (95% CI 2.37 to 2.60). Thirty-nine patients underwent radionuclide bone imaging which delivered a mean effective dose of 2.27 mSv (95% CI 2.11 to 2.43).

Conclusions

In a paediatric centre, skeletal surveys deliver a relatively low effective radiation dose, equivalent to approximately 1 month of background radiation. Non-contrast CT head scan and radionuclide bone imaging deliver similar doses, equivalent to approximately 1 year of background radiation. This information should be considered when gaining informed consent and incorporated in patient education handouts.
Dorsally exophytic glioblastoma of the pons
Authors: Negreiros Marco Antonio , Batista Fred Franklin , Cottar Shaeanny Bianchini , Acioly Marcus André
Published: April 2019

Brainstem gliomas are rare tumours in adults, accounting for only 1%–2% of all intracranial gliomas. They are recognised as a heterogeneous group, in which most are malignant tumours. Brainstem gliomas are classified into four major groups according to the growth pattern on imaging, namely diffuse, focal, exophytic and cervicomedullary. Such a classification system is also useful for surgical decision making. The exophytic variant is extremely rare having anecdoctal reports in the literature. We report the case of an adult patient affected by an exophytic glioblastoma of the pons, which was submitted to subtotal resection followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy with a longer overall survival. To the best of our knowledge, this is the seventh adult patient reported of an exophytic brainstem glioblastoma.
Side effect profile and comparative tolerability of 21 antidepressants in the acute treatment of major depression in adults: protocol for a network meta-analysis
Authors: Tomlinson Anneka , Efthimiou Orestis , Boaden Katharine , New Emma , Mather Sarah , Salanti Georgia , Imai Hissei , Ogawa Yusuke , Tajika Aran , Kishimoto Sanae , Kikuchi Sino , Chevance Astrid , Furukawa Toshi A , Cipriani Andrea
Published: April 2019

Introduction

We have recently compared all second-generation as well as selected first-generation antidepressants in terms of efficacy and acceptability in the acute treatment of major depression. Here we present a protocol for a network meta-analysis aimed at extending these results, updating the evidence base and comparing all second-generation as well as selected first-generation antidepressants in terms of specific adverse events and tolerability in the acute treatment of major depression in adults.

Methods and analysis

We will include all double-blind randomised controlled trials comparing one active drug with another or with placebo in the acute treatment major depression in adults. We will compare the following active agents: agomelatine, amitriptyline, bupropion, citalopram, clomipramine, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, levomilnacipran, milnacipran, mirtazapine, nefazodone, paroxetine, reboxetine, sertraline, trazodone, venlafaxine, vilazodone and vortioxetine. The main outcomes will include the total number of patients experiencing specific adverse events; experiencing serious adverse events; and experiencing at least one adverse event. Published and unpublished studies will be retrieved through relevant database searches, trial registries and websites; reference selection and data extraction will be completed by at least two independent reviewers. For each outcome we will undertake a network meta-analysis to synthesise all evidence. We will use local and global methods to evaluate consistency. We will perform all analyses in R. We will assess the quality of evidence contributing to network estimates with the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis web application.

Discussion

This work will provide an in- depth analysis and an insight into the specific adverse events of individual antidepressants.

Ethics and dissemination

This review does not require ethical approval.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019128141.