bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Egg activation triggers clearance of maternally deposited RNA binding proteins
Authors: Zavortink Michael , Rutt Lauren N. , Dzitoyeva Svetlana , Barrington Chloe , Bilodeau Danielle Y. , Wang Miranda , Chen Xiao Xiao Lily , Rissland Olivia S.
Published: October 2019

The maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT) is a conserved step in animal development, where control is passed from the maternal genome to the zygotic one. Although the MZT is typically considered from its impact on the transcriptome, we previously found that three maternally depositedDrosophilaRNA binding proteins (ME31B, Trailer Hitch [TRAL], and Cup) are also cleared during the MZT by unknown mechanisms. Here, we show that these proteins are degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Kondo, an E2 conjugating enzyme, and the E3 CTLH ligase are required for the destruction of ME31B, TRAL, and Cup. Importantly, despite occurring hours earlier, egg activation establishes the timer for clearance of these proteins by activating the Pan Gu kinase, which in turn stimulates translation ofKondomRNA. In other words, egg activation triggers a series of regulatory events that culminate in the degradation of maternally deposited RNA binding proteins several hours later. Clearance of the maternal protein dowry thus appears to be a coordinated, but as-yet underappreciated, aspect of the MZT.

HIGHLIGHTS

Degradation of ME31B requires the PNG kinase, but not fertilization

The ubiquitin-proteasome system degrades ME31B via CTLH E3 ligase and the UBC-E2H/Kondo ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme

The association of ME31B with the CTLH complex does not require PNG activity

PNG kinase mediates the translational upregulation of Kondo at egg activation
Pathological circadian rhythm states driven by CK2 and noise
Authors: Malik Z. , Fatima Y. , Alam J. , Singh R.
Published: October 2019

Circadian rhythm maintains sleep–wake cycle in living systems. Disruption of this rhythm may cause diseases. We propose an extended Drosophila circadian rhythm model incorporating cross-talk of CK2 with Per protein. We studied the model using stochastic simulation algorithm, and the behavior of the amplitude, time period and permutation entropy us identify three distinct circadian states namely,active, weak activity, active, weak activityandrhythmic deathall driven by CK2. These states may correspond to distinct pathological cellular states of the living system. Noise, an important factor, has ability to switch normal circadian rhythm to any of the three aforementioned circadian states. Fluctuations in system’s size, can help us in deterning the extent of noise present. We also highlighted that disruption in circadian rhythm may lead to various diseases including cancer. We present various cellular pathways driven by per mutant genes and their pathological states.

Statement of significance

Circadian rhythm, which is one of the most important biological rhythm, regulates and intervenes various cellular processes. Significant changes in the rhythmic dynamics may lead to pathological states which may trigger various diseases. In this work, the impact of CK2 via per gene mutants on rhythmic dynamics is investigated, and found three distinct states, namely,active, weak activityandrhythmic deathdriven by CK2 which may correspond to various cellular states. Noise due to intrinsic random molecular events and cellular size variability is found to have the capability of regulating and controlling rhythmic properties, and can trigger to the three rhythmic states. We then listed various possible pathways which are regulated by per gene mutants and corresponding various possible pathological states.
Single-Cell RNA-Seq Reveals Endocardial Defect in Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Miao Yifei , Tian Lei , Martin Marcy , Paige Sharon L. , Galdos Francisco X. , Li Jibiao , Guttman Alyssa , Wei Yuning , Moonen Jan-Renier , Zhang Hao , Ma Ning , Zhang Bing , Grossfeld Paul , Mital Seema , Chitayat David , Wu Joseph C. , Rabinovitch Marlene , Nelson Timothy J. , Nie Shuyi , Wu Sean M. , Gu Mingxia
Published: October 2019

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is one of the most challenging forms of congenital heart diseases. Previous studies were mainly focused on intrinsic defects in myocardium. However, this does not sufficiently explain the abnormal development of the cardiac valve, septum, and vasculature, known to originate from the endocardium. Here, using single-cell RNA profiling, induced pluripotent stem cells, and human fetal heart tissue with an underdeveloped left ventricle, we identified a developmentally impaired endocardial population in HLHS. The intrinsic endocardial deficits contributed to abnormal endothelial to mesenchymal transition, NOTCH signaling, and extracellular matrix organization, all of which are key factors in valve formation. Consequently, endocardial abnormalities conferred reduced proliferation and maturation of cardiomyocytes through a disrupted fibronectin-integrin interaction. Several recently described HLHS de novo mutations were associated with abnormal endocardial gene and FN1 regulation and expression. Our studies provide a rationale for considering endocardial function in future regenerative strategies for HLHS.
Comparative review of business group affiliates and firms’ performance
Authors: Lin Chinho , Nguyen Hoang Cong , Tran Ha Hoang
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesize empirical results relating to antecedents influencing differences in performance between business group (BG) affiliated firms and independent firms in emerging economies.

Design/methodology/approach

A metanalysis was conducted in this research in which samples were collected, and a continuous data set for figuring the differentiation between group and non-group variables was selected and analyzed. These variables included performance, diversification, ownership characteristics, firm characteristics and group characteristics.

Findings

The research presents a set of hypotheses from a model that shows the influences of factors moderating the differences between the performance of BG affiliates and independent firms, including governance and the kinds of strategic choices which these firms make. Four of the five hypotheses were totally supported, showing the importance of differentiating affiliates’ and independent firms’ performance in terms of ownership concentration, dividend payout, leverage, R&D, as well as diversification and a firm’s age and size.

Originality/value

The study focused its research on an examination of pyramid and cross-holding groups in order to reveal the role of the core firms. It also examines ownership concentration, as well as internal relationships with capital structure, and the effect which these have on firm performance, in order to further understand the relationship among BGs, corporate governance and performance in emerging-market economies.
Over-tourism and sustainable consumption of resources through sharing: the role of government
Authors: Agyeiwaah Elizabeth
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Over-tourism signifies the dilemma of managing tourism growth in cities. With growing media sensationalism and an oversimplification of the phenomenon of over-tourism, its academic theorization has become extremely important. Using Macau, a Special Administrative Region of China as a case in point, the purpose of this paper is to theoretically explore the nexus between over-tourism and sustainable consumption in cities, highlighting governments’ inevitable role in this successful convergence.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a selective systematic literature review (SLR) of existing studies in the form of both news material and academic journals. It investigates the growing concern of over-tourism and the contribution of sustainable consumption grounded in strong political support. It also adopts a case study approach with specific reference to Macau.

Findings

The general overview of the literature provides evidence of an age-old concept that has re-emerged to make local residents’ voice more pronounced. Generally, the studies concentrate on understanding residents’ attitudes, the perceived impact of over-tourism, community resilience and sustainable strategies to tackle the problem. Most popular studies are recent (i.e. 2018 and beyond) and empirically set in developed cities of Europe.

Research limitations/implications

The SLR used in the current study requires further empirical testing to validate some of the proposed concepts in the literature.

Practical implications

The study highlights the role of government in ensuring that sustainable consumption is sustainably implemented in the context of over-tourism.

Originality/value

Given the re-emergence of over-tourism, yet with few theoretical discussions on the concept, this study serves as a knowledge-base for future studies both empirically and theoretically.
Viewing lean supply from the IMP perspective
Authors: dos Santos Leandro D.B. , Holmen Elsebeth , Pedersen Ann-Charlott
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss key elements of lean supply (LS) in light of core concepts in the Industrial Marketing and Purchasing Group (IMP) perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors examine the literature on LS and identify and discuss important characteristics and key elements of LS. Second, the authors present key concepts in the IMP Perspective, in particular the dyad versus network levels, and the ARA model, capturing activities, resources, and actors. Third, the authors cross-fertilize the concepts from these two streams of research.

Findings

The authors identify 12 key LS elements. Relating these to core IMP frameworks, they identify areas of LS that can be expanded. First, the authors found that key elements in LS mainly focus on the dyadic level and that the network level is addressed to a much lesser extent and primarily captures serial “chain” connections among relationships. Second, it was found that key elements in LS predominantly focus on the activity layer and pay much less attention to resources and actors.

Research limitations/implications

The authors suggest that LS theory and practice can benefit from taking a network perspective, and by paying more attention to resource and actor concepts and issues. The study is purely theoretical.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no previous studies combine LS and the IMP perspective. The authors add to LS by elaborating how 12 key elements in LS can be expanded.
Nation branding: the strategic imperative for sustainable market competitiveness
Authors: Hassan Salah , Mahrous Abeer A.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Nation branding strategies are gaining priority as an area of research because of increasing market complexities and the rising importance of national competitiveness ranking. The sustainable development of a nation brand, when properly managed, will provide the economic incentive to attract investors, tourists and generate income for local communities. Therefore, this paper aims to focus on delineating the strategic imperatives for sustainable market competitiveness of nation brands.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts an eclectic approach in examining a wider range of factors such as sustainability and market competitiveness to develop a synergistic nation brand.

Findings

For nation brands to remain competitive, it is essential to understand the key determinants of market competitiveness. These determinants include sustainable tourism factors such as culture, heritage, environmental and integration of internal and external stakeholder groups from the public and private sectors.

Originality/value

This paper provides a framework for the analysis of sustainable market competitiveness factors of the nation brand. It also provides implications for nation branding and future research agenda.
Strategic talent development – making the best people in crucial positions better
Authors: Schreuder Rino , Noorman Simon
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This article aims to explain the why and what of strategic talent development. It shows how top talents in value-creating top positions can make a strategic difference for organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Having established the differences between generic and strategic talent management, this article argues that talent management needs to be aligned with the organizational strategy. The next step is to ensure that the talents and skills of people who fulfill strategic, “difference-making” roles are best developed. You cannot standardize your talent development to achieve greatness.

Findings

Strategic talent development is a valuable and priceless investment in the future of the entire organization.

Originality/value

Strategic talent development is an innovative addition to existing talent management practices – not a replacement. An addition that makes the link between talent management and strategy (even) more explicit and can help organizations to make a next step in the realization of their ambitions through a targeted deployment and development of their top talents in key positions.
Investigation of combined effects of wax, calcites and clay on emulsion stability using response surface methodology
Authors: Umar Abubakar Abubakar , Saaid Ismail Mohd , Pilus Rashidah Mohd , Sulaimon Aliyu Adebayor , Negash Berihun Mamo , Abd Rahim Nurul Suhana
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effect of wax, calcites and clay on the stability of petroleum emulsions. It proposes a proxy model that takes into cognizance the presence of solids other than asphaltene and resin. This study aims to investigate the combined effects of these solids on the stability of emulsions and show their relevance or otherwise in the creation of petroleum emulsions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used synthetic emulsions based on a response surface methodology using different weight concentrations of wax, calcites and clay. A Box–Behnken design model was adopted and the effects of the different variables on emulsion stability were analyzed. The conventional visual observation (batch testing) was augmented with a more robust technique of studying emulsion stability (Turbiscan) based on light backscattering or transmission. Analysis of variance and other statistics were used to analyze the results.

Findings

The paper makes an available proxy model that can predict the stability of petroleum emulsions in the presence of wax, calcites and clays. The findings suggest that in the presence of significant amount of wax (0.3 Wt.%), the presence of relatively lower concentration of clay (0.1 Wt.%) produces very stable petroleum emulsions. The results show that the most stable emulsion is obtained when significant amount of wax exists in the continuous phase and that a concentration of calcites more than wax (in a ratio of at least 2:1) produces an emulsion that separates very fast, indicating low stability.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the variations in the amount of asphaltene and resins in crude oils, the proxy model cannot generally predict the stability of every emulsion that forms in the presence of these solids. To have a more general model, it should include asphaltene/resin. This can be tested further.

Practical implications

This paper provides useful information to the oil industry, especially where formation of severely stable emulsion is a problem. It also establishes the relationship that exists between solids in emulsion stabilization.

Originality/value

This paper satisfies a demand on the effects of other surface-active materials in addition to asphaltene/resin in stabilizing petroleum emulsions.
Trade Creation and Trade Diversion Effects in the Economic Community of Central African States
Authors: Inançli Selim , Mahamat Addi Haman
Published: October 2019

This paper analyzes trade creation and trade diversion effects in the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) between 2007 and 2016 using the Gravity Model. The results show that variables like GDP, population, bilateral distance, political stability and corruption are crucial for the determination of bilateral trade flow. More importantly, the study finds that there is neither trade creation nor trade diversion in the ECCAS region. Thus, the FTA in ECCAS did not lead either to reinforce intra‐trade or to emphasize trade with non‐member countries. Yet, the Economic Community of Central African States (CEMAC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the East African Community (EAC) have been trade creating during the aforementioned period. Therefore, the paper recommends policy makers to promote more regional integration within ECCAS notably through the construction of intra‐zone communication means and the effective establishment of the free movement of people and goods within the region.
Government Spending Patterns and the Real Exchange Rate in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Ibhagui Oyakhilome
Published: October 2019

Do government spending patterns and composition influence the behaviour of the real exchange rate in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA)? First, we present a two‐sector small open economy model which proposes that government spending together with productivity differential leads to real exchange rate appreciation. Then, we take these propositions to SSA data and perform a coordinated empirical analysis. Interestingly, we find empirical support for the propositions in SSA. Finally, we disaggregate government spending into three components—consumption, investment and transfer payments—and check whether the composition of government spending provides any insight into the behaviour of the real exchange rate in SSA. Our results suggest that government composition does influence the real exchange rate in SSA. Specifically, we find that government consumption induces a real appreciation while government investment leads to a real depreciation. Although these findings yield appropriate magnitudes and signed directions, their effects are not always significant.
Do Female Managers Affect Productivity? Evidence from Zimbabwean Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Makochekanwa Albert , Nchake Mamello Amelia
Published: October 2019

Using a large dataset of Zimbabwean manufacturing firms extracted from the two waves of World Bank Enterprise Surveys of 2011 and 2016, the study investigates the impact of female management on firm's productivity in Zimbabwe's manufacturing firms. The study estimates a modified production function, to incorporate gender dimension, using a random effects estimation model. The results show that the effect of having a female manager on firm productivity varies by geographical location in the case of Zimbabwe. Specifically, the productivity of firms which have a female top manager, and are located in Harare, experience a negative productivity differential as they significantly reduce their productivity gap by 9.9 percent. On the other hand, the study found that having a female top manager in manufacturing firms located in Bulawayo significantly increases productivity by 7.9 percent compared to firms located in the Midlands area. We also find that the effect of a female manager on firm productivity differs by sectors, stressing the need for domestic economic policy to consider these dynamics. Given the importance of location in determining the contribution of a production manager on firm performance, the government may need to implement policies that consider location‐specific factors to enhance productivity of the manufacturing sector of Zimbabwe.
Bargaining Power within Couples and Health Care Provider Choice in Tanzania
Authors: Mukong Alfred Kechia , Burns Justine
Published: October 2019

This paper examines the pattern of health care provider choice in relation to couples’ bargaining power, in a country where most communities are basically patriarchal, with limited legal protection for women. We use the Tanzanian Demographic and Health Survey (2010) and a nested multinomial logit model to distinguish between public and private facility choice. Evidence suggests that cooperation in decision‐making, female discretion over household resources and low domestic violence increase the probability of childbirth in a health facility. We find that cooperation in household decision‐making and low incidence of domestic violence significantly increase the probability of private facility use. The effects of these social and economic dimensions of the distribution of power between spouses on health care use remain significant after controlling for household resource endowment. A policy option that encourages cooperation between couples, reduces domestic violence and/or ensures female empowerment is more likely to enhance the use of reproductive health services.
Performance evaluation will not die, but it should
Authors: Murphy Kevin R.
Published: October 2019

A wide range of systems for evaluating performance have been used in organisations, ranging from traditional annual performance appraisals to performance management systems built around informal, real‐time evaluations, and these systems almost always fail. Rather than continuing to make cosmetic adjustments to this system, organisations should consider dropping the practice of regularly evaluating the performance of each of their employees, focusing rather on the small subset of situations in which evaluations of performance and performance feedback are actually useful. Four barriers to successful performance evaluation are reviewed: (a) the distribution of performance, (b) the continuing failure to devise reliable and valid methods for obtaining judgments about performance, (c) the limited utility of performance feedback to employees, and (d) the limited utility of performance evaluations to organisations. In this paper, I propose ways of managing performance without relying on regular performance evaluation, refocusing managers' activities from performance management to performance leadership.
Video education can improve awareness of risks for patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: A randomized trial
Authors: Xia Tian , Zhu Yang Bei , Zeng Yan Bo , Chen Cui , Wang Shu Ling , Zhao Sheng Bing , Su Xiao Ju , Wang Dong , Yao Jun , Li Zhao Shen , Bai Yu
Published: October 2019

Objective

We conducted a randomized trial aiming at improving patients' informed consent for undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in clinical care by comparing the efficacy of an additional educational video to written informed consent with that of written informed consent alone.

Methods

This was a single‐center, randomized controlled trial. Consecutive patients undergoing ERCP were randomized to a video education or a control group. An educational video detailing ERCP procedure plus standard written informed consent was administered to the video education group, while the control group reviewed standard written informed consent only. The primary outcome was the patients' perception of the risk or possibility of ERCP complications. Their perception of the benefits of ERCP, alternative treatments and overall satisfaction with the process of informed consent were also compared.

Results

In total 205 patients were included in the study (104 in the control group and 101 in the video education group). Patients’ comprehension of ERCP‐related complications in the video education group was significantly increased (P < 0.001), and these patients were more likely to correctly identify the incidence of such complications. Significantly more patients in the video education group were very satisfied with informed consent process (87.1% vs 76.0%, P = 0.040) and fewer patients needed additional explanations (31.7% vs 47.1%, P = 0.024).

Conclusions

A supplementary educational video could greatly improve patient's understanding of ERCP procedure, in particular, its potential risks and complications, as well as their overall satisfaction with the process of informed consent (ClinicalTrials.gov no. NCT02810379).
The synergetic effect of childhood trauma and recent stressful events in psychosis: associated neurocognitive dysfunction
Authors: Ayesa‐Arriola R. , Setién‐Suero E. , Marques‐Feixa L. , Neergaard K. , Butjosa A. , Vázquez‐Bourgon J. , Fañanás L. , Crespo‐Facorro B.
Published: October 2019

Background

A higher incidence of childhood trauma (CT) has been reported in first episode of psychosis (FEP). There is, however, a lack of knowledge about the synergetic effect between CT and recent stressful events (RSE).

Methods

Information on specific types of CT (under 17 years) and RSE (within the past 3 years) was available for 290 FEP patients and 52 healthy controls (HC). Cognitive function at baseline was assessed through a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery.

Results

While 45.2% of FEP patients and 25% of HC reported at least one CT event, 62.7% of FEP and 21.2% of HC reported an RSE. Meanwhile, 36.2% of FEP patients and 9.6% of HC encountered both childhood and recent stressful events. The patients that just reported CT showed normality in all but the verbal memory cognitive domain; those with additive CT and RSE presented worse general cognitive function, specifically on working memory, processing speed, and executive function. RSE and general cognitive dysfunction were significant determinants of psychosis onset.

Conclusions

These results support a synergetic influence of trauma and stressful events on brain function and allow a better understanding of mediators for psychotic disorders useful in the design of specific strategies based on stress‐targeted therapies.
Interoceptive attention in opioid and stimulant use disorder
Authors: Stewart Jennifer L. , Khalsa Sahib S. , Kuplicki Rayus , Puhl Maria , T1000 Investigators  , Paulus Martin P.
Published: October 2019

Blunted anterior insula activation during interoceptive perturbations has been associated with stimulant (cocaine and amphetamine) use disorder (SUD) and is related to risk for and prognosis of SUD. However, little is known whether these interoceptive alterations extend to opioid use disorder (OUD). This exploratory study used the same experimental probe during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to test the hypothesis that SUD and OUD exhibit interoceptive discrepancies characterized by subjective ratings and activation within the insula. Recently, abstinent individuals diagnosed with current SUD (n = 40) or current OUD (n = 20) were compared with healthy individuals (CTL; n = 30) on brain and self‐report responses during an interoceptive attention task known to elicit insula activation. Participants selectively attended to interoceptive (heartbeat and stomach) and exteroceptive signals during blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent fMRI recording. Groups and conditions were compared on (a) activation within probabilistic cytoarchitectonic segmentations of the insula and (b) self‐reported stimulus intensity. First, SUD showed amplified ratings of heart‐related sensations but attenuation of dorsal dysgranular insula activity relative to CTL. Amplified ratings were linked to drug use recency, while attenuation was normalized with greater past‐year stimulant use. Second, SUD and OUD showed attenuation of dorsal dysgranular insula activity during attention to stomach sensations relative to CTL. Taken together, these results are consistent with altered neural processing of interoceptive signals in drug addiction, particularly as a function of SUD. Future studies will need to determine whether interoceptive metrics help to explain substance use disorder pathophysiology and are useful for predicting outcomes.
The Volunteer Dementia and Delirium Care (VDDC)©: A pre‐implementation study exploring perceived acceptability to implementing the program in an acute and subacute metropolitan hospital
Authors: Ayton Darshini , Moran Chris , Berkovic Danielle , Bateman Catherine , Anderson Katrina , Blair Annaliese , Soh Sze‐Ee , Morello Renata , Lim Yen Ying , Liew Danny
Published: October 2019

Objective

To explore the perceived acceptability of the Volunteer Dementia and Delirium Care (VDDC)© program components from the perspective of key stakeholders in a metropolitan health network.

Methods

A mixed‐methods design was used. Surveys (nurses) and focus groups and interviews (hospital staff, volunteers, patients and caregivers) were conducted simultaneously. Descriptive statistics were used to profile the survey responses. The framework method was used to analyse the qualitative data.

Results

The majority of nurses identified that it is acceptable for volunteers to read to, and converse and play games with patients. Hospital staff perceived risk in volunteers assisting with feeding and mobilisation. Overall participants believed the VDDC was acceptable and would be of benefit to the patients.

Conclusion

Key stakeholders have a favourable view of the VDDC© program. Strategies can be developed to address the identified issues, and components of the program may be amended to ensure that implementation is acceptable.
Infection‐mediated preterm birth: Bacterial origins and avenues for intervention
Authors: Stinson Lisa F. , Payne Matthew S.
Published: October 2019

Preterm birth (PTB) is globally the leading cause of death and disability in children under five years of age. Intra‐amniotic infection is well recognised as a major cause of PTB. Importantly, it is the most common cause of extreme PTB (birth prior to 28 weeks gestation), which is frequently associated with a wide range of serious neonatal morbidities. Recent developments in next generation sequencing technologies, combined with many years of culture‐based microbiological data have allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of infection‐mediated PTB. In particular, studies have revealed numerous potential routes to intra‐amniotic infection beyond the classically described ascending vaginal route. Currently, antibiotic therapy is standard treatment for suspected or confirmed intra‐amniotic infection, although its use in this context has had mixed success due to problems ranging from inappropriate antibiotic selection in relation to the target organism/s, to poor transplacental drug passage. In this review, we will draw together evidence from animal models and human studies to characterise pathways to intra‐amniotic infection. We will then thoroughly outline current therapeutic protocols for cases of intra‐amniotic infection and suggest potential new avenues for treatment.
Fertility preservation in oncology patients: A literature review examining current fertility preservation techniques and access to oncofertility services in Australia
Authors: Robson Danielle , Phua Cheryl , Howard Robyn , Marren Anthony
Published: October 2019

Background

In Australia, between the years 2010 and 2014, over 4500 adolescents and young adults (15–25 years old) were diagnosed with cancer. Treatment regimens are often gonadotoxic and are well known to induce ovarian and testicular failure. Oncofertility is an emerging discipline in obstetrics and gynaecology which seeks to preserve and restore the reproductive future of cancer patients.

Aim

To perform a systematic literature review to assess the current fertility preservation techniques available to patients and examine access and uptake of fertility preservation in Australia.

Materials and Methods

Electronic databases, including Medline, Cochrane Review, SCOPUS and CINHAL, were searched for peer‐reviewed publications and national guidelines examining oncofertility practices from 2008 to July 2018. Three hundred and seventy‐five articles were initially screened, with 158 articles for full text review and an additional five clinical guidelines were identified.

Results

There is a paucity of Australian data on oncofertility with <50% of data included for analysis reflecting the Australian experience. The majority of primary research included retrospective papers with small cohort numbers. Key areas addressed included live birth outcomes, uptake of services and patient and physician perspectives on fertility preservation. Few articles sought to examine the positive and negative side effects of fertility preservation in oncology, social challenges of oncofertility and access to services worldwide.

Conclusion

Oncofertility is an emerging discipline which seeks to provide safe, efficient and effective fertility preservation options for young adults and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. A multi‐disciplinary approach with collaborative communication with oncologists is key to providing this service within Australia.
Two ethical concerns about the use of persuasive technology for vulnerable people
Authors: Jacobs Naomi
Published: October 2019

Persuasive technologies for health‐related behaviour change give rise to ethical concerns. As of yet, no study has explicitly attended to ethical concerns arising with the design and use of these technologies for vulnerable people. This is striking because these technologies are designed to help people change their attitudes or behaviours, which is particularly valuable for vulnerable people. Vulnerability is a complex concept that is both an ontological condition of our humanity and highly context‐specific. Using the Mackenzie, Rogers and Dodds’ taxonomy of vulnerability, this paper identifies (a) the wrongs or harms to which a person is vulnerable, (b) the source of this vulnerability, and (c) the safeguards needed in response. Two ethical concerns with the design of persuasive technology for vulnerable people are discussed: the concerns of taking into account users' interests and their autonomy.
2',3'‐Cyclic‐nucleotide 3'‐phosphodiesterase contributes to epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of lens epithelial cells through the notch signalling pathway
Authors: Li Yue , Zhao Yu , Wang Yan
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Fibrosis is a complex process involved in multiple diseases that result in organ injury and failure. Cataract, one common form of ocular fibrosis, is a main cause of blindness worldwide, and surgery may be the only cure. In this regard, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of lens epithelial cells (LECs) is the primary cause of anterior subcapsular cataract (ASC). This study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which 2',3'‐cyclic‐nucleotide 3'‐phosphodiesterase (CNPase) regulates the function of EMT in LECs.

Materials and Methods

A mouse model of ASC was used to observe the expression of CNPase in the lens and correlate its expression changes with lens EMT. Furthermore, the effects of CNPase on cell migration and cell proliferation were evaluated by transwell migration, wound healing and EdU staining assays. Finally, Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to assess the mechanical properties potentially involved in the regulation of EMT by CNPase.

Results

The expression of CNPase was upregulated in LECs during the EMT process in mice with ASC. Notably, CNPase significantly promoted the proliferation, migration and EMT of LECs in vitro. Interestingly, the EMT‐promoting mechanism of CNPase may be achieved by targeting the Notch signalling pathway.

Conclusions

Considering the involvement of EMT in ASC, both CNPase and the Notch signalling pathway may be therapeutic targets for the treatment of cataracts.
Quercetin depletes intracellular Ca2+ stores and blunts ATP‐triggered Ca2+ signaling in bEnd.3 endothelial cells
Authors: Chen Cing‐Yu , Hour Mann‐Jen , Shiao Lian‐Ru , Wong Kar‐Lok , Leung Yuk‐Man , Chan Paul , So Edmund Cheung
Published: October 2019

Quercetin is a flavonol polyphenol widely found in many vegetables, grains, and fruits. Quercetin has been shown to inhibit proliferation and invasion of various glioma cells and is regarded as a potential anticancer agent against glioma. However, whether and how this drug could affect brain blood vessels and endothelial cells (EC) are less understood. Further, there is hitherto no report on how quercetin affects brain EC Ca2+ homeostasis. In this report, we investigated the effects of quercetin on Ca2+ homeostasis in mouse brain bEnd.3 EC. We demonstrated that quercetin raised cytosolic Ca2+ level in a concentration‐dependent manner. Quercetin‐triggered Ca2+ signal composed of both internal Ca2+ release and extracellular Ca2+ influx. Quercetin caused Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum, and consistently, inhibition of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) by xestospongin C (XeC) suppressed quercetin‐triggered Ca2+ release. Quercetin also caused Ca2+ release from lysosomes, an observation in concordance with the inhibition of quercetin‐triggered Ca2+ release by trans‐Ned‐19, a blocker of two‐pore channels. As quercetin depleted intracellular Ca2+ storage, it suppressed ATP‐induced Ca2+ release and thereby blunted ATP‐triggered Ca2+ signaling. In addition, quercetin co‐treatment significantly suppressed ATP‐stimulated nitric oxide release. Our work therefore showed, for the first time, quercetin perturbed intracellular Ca2+ stores and strongly suppressed ATP‐triggered response in bEnd.3 cells.
Challenges in the annotation of pseudoenzymes in databases: the UniProtKB approach
Authors: Zaru Rossana , Magrane Michele , Orchard Sandra ,   the UniProt Consortium
Published: October 2019

The universal protein knowledgebase (UniProtKB) collects and centralises functional information on proteins across a wide range of species. In addition to the functional information added to all protein entries, for enzymes, which represent 20–40% of most proteomes, UniProtKB provides additional information about Enzyme Commission classification, catalytic activity, cofactors, enzyme regulation, kinetics and pathways, all based on critical assessment of published experimental data. Computer‐based analysis and structural data are used to enrich the annotation of the sequence through the identification of active sites and binding sites. While the annotation of enzymes is well‐defined, the curation of pseudoenzymes in UniProtKB has highlighted some challenges: how to identify them, how to assess their lack of catalytic activity, how to annotate their lack of catalytic activity in a consistent way and how much can be inferred and propagated from experimental data obtained from other species. Through various examples, we illustrate some of these issues and discuss some of the changes we propose to enhance the annotation and discovery of pseudoenzymes. Ultimately, improving the curation of pseudoenzymes will provide the scientific community with a comprehensive resource for pseudoenzymes, which in turn will lead to a better understanding of the evolution of these molecules, the aetiology of related diseases and the development of drugs.
In Search of an Appropriate Lower Bound. The Zero Lower Bound vs. the Positive Lower Bound under Discretion and Commitment
Authors: Ciżkowicz Piotr , Rzońca Andrzej , Torój Andrzej
Published: October 2019

Using a standard New Keynesian model, we show that moderate side effects of zero lower bound (ZLB) policy suffice for positive lower bound (PLB) policy to pay off in terms of welfare, especially when central banks fail to commit. For given side effects of the ZLB, as the shock that makes the ZLB bind becomes larger and more persistent, the dominance of PLB policy over ZLB policy becomes more likely. The findings hold for flexible and rigid economies with both fast and slow potential output growth and low and high inflation targets.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) can establish productive infection in dysplastic oral mucosa, but HPV status is poorly predicted by histological features and p16 expression
Authors: Hendawi Naeima , Niklander Sven , Allsobrook Olive , Khurram Syed Ali , Bolt Robert , Doorbar John , Speight Paul M. , Hunter Keith D.
Published: October 2019

Aims

Previous studies have reported the presence of high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) in a subset of dysplastic oral epithelial lesions. Many cases show a histological spectrum of atypia similar to that seen in non‐human papillomavirus (HPV) severe epithelial dysplasia, but some studies have suggested that HPV status can be inferred on the basis of histological features. We aimed to assess the utility of such histological features and p16 as surrogate markers of HPV infection in a retrospective cohort of 33 cases of severe epithelial dysplasia, with matched clinicopathological data and histological features.

Methods and results

Tissue sections were assessed for the expression of p16, minichromosome maintenance 2, HPV E4 and HPV L1 by the use of immunohistochemistry. HPV16/18 E6 and E7 expression was assessed by the use of RNA in‐situ hybridisation (RNAScope). In the cohort, 18.2% of cases (6/33) were HR‐HPV‐positive, with no age/gender differences between the HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative groups. HPV E4 and HPV L1 were expressed in surface keratinocytes in four of six (66%) HPV‐positive cases, indicative of productive HPV infection. Lack of p16 expression was predictive of HPV‐negative status, but sensitivity and specificity varied according to the cut‐off. Histologically, the presence of karyorrhectic nuclei and abnormal mitotic figures was higher in HPV‐positive lesions (P < 0.05), but the predictive specificity and sensitivity were suboptimal (sensitivity, 0.75; specificity, 0.52).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates, for the first time, that a minority of severely dysplastic oral lesions harbour productive, biologically relevant HPV infection. Consideration should be given to the specific assessment of HPV status in severe epithelial dysplasia cases, as both p16 status and the presence of karyorrhectic cells are poor predictive markers of HPV status.
The impact of consumers' time constraint and conspicuous consumption behaviour on the throwaway society
Authors: McCollough John
Published: October 2019

In highly competitive economies, productivity is always increasing as entrepreneurs, driven by the profit motive, strive to build a better mousetrap. Over time, this has given consumers a wealth of material goods. However, within this type of economy, the consumers need to consume all that is produced or else there will be distortions in the labour markets. However, as it turns out, we are able to consume all that is produced by having transitioned into a throwaway society, but there are environmental consequences associated with the replacing of malfunctioning household products instead of repairing and reusing these products. There are a number of factors responsible for causing consumers to replace a malfunctioning household product as opposed to repairing the product for reuse. The research in this paper will focus on two of these factors. The first factor is the time constraint that consumers are faced with and the second factor is conspicuous consumption. This research uses the results of an international survey conducted in seven different countries at different stages of economic development. The survey was conducted between November, 2015 and December, 2016. The results show that both the time constraint factor and the conspicuous consumption factor are significant in determining that if a consumer will look to replace a malfunctioning household product as opposed to repairing the product for further reuse. Furthermore, as more nations continue to develop economically and their GDP per capita grows, then the environmental impacts resulting from an increasing throwaway society by those nations will yield more hazardous environmental consequences.
Peer support in Switzerland – Results from the first national survey
Authors: Burr Christian , Rother Katja , Elhilali Laila , Winter Andréa , Weidling Katja , Kozel Bernd , Gurtner Caroline
Published: October 2019

Peer work is now known in Switzerland for 10 years and has developed strongly. The aim of the study was to describe peer support specialists’ (PSSs’) work conditions and job satisfaction, as well as the challenges of integration into the workforce in Switzerland. A further aim was to identify possible development topics in the preparation of PSSs for working with peer support work (PSW) training and interventions within the working field. We launched a survey with a self‐developed questionnaire for people with lived experiences with mental illness and recovery who were working as PSSs or experts by experience in education, research, politics, and other areas in the German‐speaking region of Switzerland. The survey took place from 1 September 2017 to 15 November 2017. The results show that PSSs were working mostly in 1:1 contact with service users and in education and noticeably less in politics and research. Their work conditions and job satisfaction seemed good. Most PSSs had job descriptions matching their duties, were satisfied with their salaries, and indicated being satisfied or very satisfied with their work. Amongst other aspects, the greatest challenge reported was integration into the inter‐disciplinary working team. PSS training should better consider the working areas of experts by experience in the fields of politics and research to reinforce employment opportunities in these work areas. To increase the impacts of PSSs and to improve integration into the workspace, the preparation of professionals and institutions should be improved by means of information sessions, trainings, and guidelines.
Enhanced Passive Safety Surveillance (EPSS) confirms an optimal safety profile of the use of MF59®‐adjuvanted influenza vaccine in older adults: Results from three consecutive seasons
Authors: Panatto Donatella , Haag Mendel , Lai Piero Luigi , Tomczyk Sylvie , Amicizia Daniela , Lino Maria Maddalena
Published: October 2019

Background

In Europe, the enhanced safety surveillance (ESS) of seasonal influenza vaccines is mandatory, in order to detect any potential increase in reactogenicity when the vaccine composition is updated. The MF59®‐adjuvanted influenza vaccine (Fluad™) is the first and the only licensed adjuvanted seasonal influenza vaccine in Europe.

Objective

Our objective was to summarize the safety data of Fluad™ over three consecutive seasons.

Methods

A passive approach to ESS (EPSS) was adopted, in which reporting of spontaneous adverse events (AEs) by vaccinees and vaccine exposure was estimated, in order to generate a near real‐time reporting rate. EPSS was conducted in Italy during the 2015, 2016, and 2017 influenza seasons in the primary care setting. All AEs reported within 7 days following immunization were analyzed by season, type and seriousness. Fisher's exact test was used to compare frequencies between seasons.

Results

Total exposure accounted for approximately 1,000 doses of Fluad™ for each season. A total of 0.5% (2015), 0.7% (2016), and 0.5% (2017) individual case safety reports (ICSRs) were received, corresponding to a total of 9 (2015), 18 (2016), and 12 (2017) spontaneous AEs. The frequencies of AEs of interest were below those expected on the basis of the known safety profile of the vaccine. Most AEs were mild‐to‐moderate in severity. No between‐season difference was found.

Conclusions

Our analyses confirmed that the safety data observed were consistent with the known safety profile of Fluad™, which has been amply established over the last 20 years. No significant changes in the safety profile were observed.