bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To bee or not to bee: The ‘raison d'être’ of toxic secondary compounds in the pollen of Boraginaceae
Authors: Trunz Vincent , Lucchetti Matteo A. , Bénon Dimitri , Dorchin Achik , Desurmont Gaylord A. , Kast Christina , Rasmann Sergio , Glauser Gaétan , Praz Christophe J.
Published: May 2020

While the presence of secondary compounds in floral nectar has received considerable attention, much less is known about the ecological significance and evolutionary origin of secondary ‘toxic’ compounds in pollen. It is unclear whether the presence of these compounds in pollen is non‐adaptive and due to physiological ‘spillover’ from other floral tissues, or whether these compounds serve an adaptive function related to plant–pollinator interactions, such as protection of pollen against pollen thieves.

Combining an experimental approach with phylogenetic comparative methods, and using western Palaearctic Boraginaceae as a model system, we investigate how pollen secondary metabolites influence, and are influenced by, relationships with bees, the main functional group of pollen‐foraging pollinators.

We found a significant relationship between the levels of secondary compounds in the corollas and those in the pollen in the investigated species of Boraginaceae, suggesting that baseline levels of pollen secondary compounds may partly be due to spillover from floral tissues. At realistic levels, pollen secondary compounds showed significant detrimental effects on bee pre‐imaginal development, in agreement with previous egg‐transfer experiments showing that in some cases Boraginaceae pollen did not support pre‐imaginal development in bees not specialized on these plants.

We also show that phylogenetically independent Boraginaceae taxa rewarding pollinators with pollen in addition to nectar exhibit significantly lower levels of toxic compounds in the pollen than taxa where the main reward is postulated to be nectar. Lastly, in contrast to our predictions, there was no positive association between toxin levels in the pollen of a given plant taxon and the number of bee species specialized on this taxon.

We integrate all these findings and formulate an evolutionary scenario to account for the presence of toxic compounds in the pollen of Boraginaceae. We suggest that baseline levels of toxic compounds may be found in pollen due to spillover from other floral tissues and not primarily because of bee–flower interactions. Since pollen toxins can have detrimental effects on bees, we propose that selection acts to lower pollen toxin levels in plants where pollen, in addition to nectar, serves as a reward to bees.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Sources of variation in maternal allocation in a long‐lived mammal
Authors: Macdonald Kaitlin R. , Rotella Jay J. , Garrott Robert A. , Link William A.
Published: May 2020

Life history theory predicts allocation of energy to reproduction varies with maternal age, but additional maternal features may be important to the allocation of energy to reproduction.

We aimed to characterize age‐specific variation in maternal allocation and assess the relationship between maternal allocation and other static and dynamic maternal features.

Mass measurements of 531 mothers and pups were used with Bayesian hierarchical models to explain the relationship between diverse maternal attributes and both the proportion of mass allocated by Weddell seal mothers, and the efficiency of mass transfer from mother to pup during lactation as well as the weaning mass of pups.

Our results demonstrated that maternal mass was strongly and positively associated with the relative reserves allocated by a mother and a pup's weaning mass but that the efficiency of mass transfer declines with maternal parturition mass. Birthdate was positively associated with proportion mass allocation and pup weaning mass, but mass transfer efficiency was predicted to be highest at the mean birthdate. The relative allocation of maternal reserves declined with maternal age but the efficiency of mass transfer to pups increases, suggestive of selective disappearance of poor‐quality mothers.

These findings highlight the importance of considering multiple maternal features when assessing variation in maternal allocation.
Developmental underpinnings of spermatogonial stem cell establishment
Authors: Law Nathan C. , Oatley Jon M.
Published: May 2020

Background

The germline serves as a conduit for transmission of genetic and epigenetic information from one generation to the next. In males, spermatozoa are the final carriers of inheritance and their continual production is supported by a foundational population of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) that forms from prospermatogonial precursors during the early stages of neonatal development. In mammals, the timing for which SSCs are specified and the underlying mechanisms guiding this process remain to be completely understood.

Objectives

To propose an evolving concept for how the foundational SSC population is established.

Materials and methods

This review summarizes recent and historical findings from peer‐reviewed publications made primarily with mouse models while incorporating limited studies from humans and livestock.

Results and conclusion

Establishment of the SSC population appears to follow a biphasic pattern involving a period of fate programming followed by an establishment phase that culminates in formation of the SSC population. This model for establishment of the foundational SSC population from precursors is anticipated to extend across mammalian species and include humans and livestock, albeit on different timescales.
Preoperative anaemia and thrombocytopenia are associated with venous thromboembolism complications after colorectal resection
Authors: Yeap Evie , Teoh William M.K. , Nguyen Thang Chien , Suhardja Thomas Surya
Published: May 2020

Background

Earlier studies have shown that abnormal levels of haemoglobin and platelets may be associated with worse post‐operative outcomes. We aim to compare the rates of venous thromboembolism (VTE), anastomotic leak and other complications in patients post‐colorectal resection with normal and abnormal levels of haemoglobin and platelets.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 1610 patients from July 2010 to June 2015 in a single colorectal unit. Our primary outcome was the rate of VTE and anastomotic leak in anaemic and thrombocytopenic patients. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, 30‐day mortality, return to theatre, transfusion rates and Clavien–Dindo classification complications.

Results

VTE complications were more common in anaemic patients, and this difference became more pronounced with the severity of anaemia. Other complications such as length of stay >2 weeks occurred more frequently in anaemic and thrombocytopenic patients. A trend towards higher rates of 30‐day mortality and anastomotic leak was noted in patients with anaemia and thrombocytopenia.

Conclusion

Anaemia and thrombocytopenia are associated with worse outcomes including length of stay, anastomotic leak, VTE and 30‐day mortality.
Ageing and longevity genes in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Liberale Luca , Kraler Simon , Camici Giovanni G. , Lüscher Thomas F.
Published: May 2020

Over the last century, Western societies experienced a demographic shift driven by increased lifespan and decreased fertility, resulting in the subversion of the world's demographic pyramid. In ageing societies, cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of morbidity and mortality, thus representing a major societal and economic burden. Indeed, ageing associates with the deterioration of a genetic network implicated in senescence and longevity, orchestrating deleterious cellular processes that converge in the structural and functional decline of both the myocardium and the vasculature. In this review, we revise a compendium of genes involved in these processes and delineate possible strategies to interfere with them. Dietary interventions (eg intermittent fasting) and sirtuin‐activating compounds are among the most promising interventions shown to promote protective effects on the ageing cardiovascular system. We conclude that ageing and longevity genes modulate cardiovascular function by acting on deleterious downstream processes such as inflammation and oxidative stress, thus representing promising targets for the prevention and treatment of age‐related cardiovascular dysfunction.
The prevalence and natural history of normocalcaemic hypoparathyroidism in a United Kingdom referral population
Authors: Schini Marian , Stirling Rebecca , Jacques Richard M. , Oakes Eleanor , Peel Nicola F. A. , Walsh Jennifer S. , Eastell Richard
Published: May 2020

Context

Normocalcaemic hypoparathyroidism (NHYPO) is characterized by low levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) with normal levels of calcium. There is little in the current literature on this disease, with only two studies published on its prevalence, while its natural history remains relatively unknown.

Objectives

To identify the prevalence of NHYPO in a UK referral population and to study the natural history of the disorder.

Design

Retrospective study. Five‐year follow‐up.

Patients

6280 patients referred for a BMD measurement in a Metabolic Bone referral centre.

Measurements

Prevalence of NHYPO and variability of calcium.

Results

Based on laboratory results on the index day, 22 patients with NHYPO were identified. Four patients were excluded due to non‐PTH‐induced hypocalcaemia and unconfirmed data. The final prevalence was 0.29%. Only 67% had persistent normocalcaemia, and the rest had intermittent hypocalcaemia. Two of these patients also had persistently low PTH on two occasions. Most of the patients had one PTH measurement available. No patient developed permanent hypoparathyroidism.

Conclusions

The prevalence calculated from this UK referral population is lower when compared to results from previous studies. NHYPO patients often have episodes of hypocalcaemia with some cases having no apparent reason for calcium levels below the reference range.
Multifactorial pathways facilitate resilience among kindergarteners at risk for dyslexia: A longitudinal behavioral and neuroimaging study
Authors: Zuk Jennifer , Dunstan Jade , Norton Elizabeth , Yu Xi , Ozernov‐Palchik Ola , Wang Yingying , Hogan Tiffany P. , Gabrieli John D. E. , Gaab Nadine
Published: May 2020

Recent efforts have focused on screening methods to identify children at risk for dyslexia as early as preschool/kindergarten. Unfortunately, while low sensitivity leads to under‐identification of at‐risk children, low specificity can lead to over‐identification, resulting in inaccurate allocation of limited educational resources. The present study focused on children identified as at‐risk in kindergarten who do not subsequently develop poor reading skills to specify factors associated with better reading outcomes among at‐risk children. Early screening was conducted in kindergarten and a subset of children was tracked longitudinally until second grade. Potential protective factors were evaluated at cognitive‐linguistic, environmental, and neural levels. Relative to at‐risk kindergarteners with subsequent poor reading, those with typical reading outcomes were characterized by significantly higher socioeconomic status (SES), speech production accuracy, and structural organization of the posterior right‐hemispheric superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF). A positive association between structural organization of the right SLF and subsequent decoding skills was found to be specific to at‐risk children and not observed among typical controls. Among at‐risk children, several kindergarten‐age factors were found to significantly contribute to the prediction of subsequent decoding skills: white matter organization in the posterior right SLF, age, gender, SES, and phonological awareness. These findings suggest that putative compensatory mechanisms are already present by the start of kindergarten. The right SLF, in conjunction with the cognitive‐linguistic and socioeconomic factors identified, may play an important role in facilitating reading development among at‐risk children. This study has important implications for approaches to early screening, and assessment strategies for at‐risk children.
Mechanobiology of the brain in ageing and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Hall Chloe M. , Moeendarbary Emad , Sheridan Graham K.
Published: May 2020

Just as the epigenome, the proteome and the electrophysiological properties of a cell influence its function, so too do its intrinsic mechanical properties and its extrinsic mechanical environment. This is especially true for neurons of the central nervous system (CNS) as long‐term maintenance of synaptic connections relies on efficient axonal transport machinery and structural stability of the cytoskeleton. Recent reports suggest that profound physical changes occur in the CNS microenvironment with advancing age which, in turn, will impact highly mechanoresponsive neurons and glial cells. Here, we discuss the complex and inhomogeneous mechanical structure of CNS tissue, as revealed by recent mechanical measurements on the brain and spinal cord, using techniques such as magnetic resonance elastography and atomic force microscopy. Moreover, ageing, traumatic brain injury, demyelination and neurodegeneration can perturb the mechanical properties of brain tissue and trigger mechanobiological signalling pathways in neurons, glia and cerebral vasculature. It is, therefore, very likely that significant changes in cell and tissue mechanics contribute to age‐related cognitive decline and deficits in memory formation which are accelerated and magnified in neurodegenerative states, such as Alzheimer's disease. Importantly, we are now beginning to understand how neuronal and glial cell mechanics and brain tissue mechanobiology are intimately linked with neurophysiology and cognition.
Disease hotspots or hot species? Infection dynamics in multi‐host metacommunities controlled by species identity, not source location
Authors: Wilber Mark Q. , Johnson Pieter T. J. , Briggs Cheryl J.
Published: May 2020

Pathogen persistence in host communities is influenced by processes operating at the individual host to landscape‐level scale, but isolating the relative contributions of these processes is challenging. We developed theory to partition the influence of host species, habitat patches and landscape connectivity on pathogen persistence within metacommunities of hosts and pathogens. We used this framework to quantify the contributions of host species composition and habitat patch identity on the persistence of an amphibian pathogen across the landscape. By sampling over 11 000 hosts of six amphibian species, we found that a single host species could maintain the pathogen in 91% of observed metacommunities. Moreover, this dominant maintenance species contributed, on average, twice as much to landscape‐level pathogen persistence compared to the most influential source patch in a metacommunity. Our analysis demonstrates substantial inequality in how species and patches contribute to pathogen persistence, with important implications for targeted disease management.
Setting the scene: Historical overview of challenges and what led to advances in comprehensive care in developed countries, the Canadian experience
Authors: Page David
Published: May 2020

The history of the development of comprehensive care for hemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders in Canada has been long and full of challenges. From limited in‐patient treatment with plasma and cryoprecipitate in a few major centres in the 1950s and 1960s, a network of Hemophilia Treatment Centres (HTCs) offering multi‐disciplinary comprehensive care, home infusion and prophylaxis was established across the country by the late 1970s and early 1980s, only to be shaken by the widespread contamination of factor concentrates with HIV and HCV in the 1970s and 1980s. In recent years the mission of HTCs has expanded to better serve people with von Willebrand disease, rare factor deficiencies and other rare bleeding disorders, and more fully recognize the needs of women with bleeding disorders. In 2020, challenges remain, notably maintaining the resources and expertise in HTCs and gaining access to the latest innovations in treatments.
Investigator clinical trials: How can we ask the question?
Authors: Schved Jean‐François
Published: May 2020

The development of knowledge about a treatment requires clinical trials. In addition to the trials initiated by the industry, some trials called Investigator initiated trials (it is) are developed on the initiative of the investigator. The assay must provide answers to one or several questions concerning the drug studied, so it is essential to determine the exact form of the question. Through three examples of drug development in the field of haemorrhagic diseases, we try to identify the difficulties encountered in developing these trials and the risks of misinterpretation of the results of these trials.
'It just wasn’t going to be heard’: A mixed methods study to compare different ways of involving people with diabetes and health‐care professionals in health intervention research
Authors: Racine Emmy , Riordan Fiona , Phillip Eunice , Flynn Grainne , McHugh Sheena , Kearney Patricia M.
Published: May 2020

Background

Guidelines recommend involving intervention users in the intervention development process. However, there is limited guidance on how to involve users in a meaningful and effective way.

Objective

The aim of this Study within a trial was to compare participants’ experiences of taking part in one of three types of consensus meetings—people with diabetes‐only, combined people with diabetes and health‐care professionals (HCPs) or HCP‐only meeting.

Design

The study used a mixed methods convergent design. Quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (observation notes and semi‐structured telephone interviews) data were collected to explore participants’ experiences. A triangulation protocol was used to compare quantitative and qualitative findings.

Participants

People with diabetes (recruited via multiple strategies) were randomly assigned to attend the people with diabetes or combined meeting. HCPs (recruited through professional networks) attended the HCP or combined meeting based on their availability.

Results

Sixteen people with diabetes and 15 HCPs attended meetings, of whom 18 participated in a telephone interview. Participants’ questionnaire responses suggested similar positive experiences across the three meetings. Observation and semi‐structured interviews highlighted differences experienced by participants in the combined meeting relating to: perceived lack of common ground; feeling empowered versus undervalued; needing to feel safe and going off task to fill the void.

Conclusions

The qualitative theme ‘needing to feel safe’ may explain the dissonance (disagreement) between quantitative and qualitative data. In this study, involving patients and HCPs simultaneously in a consensus process was not found to be as suitable as involving each stakeholder group separately.
Meat safety and quality: a biological approach
Authors: Nielsen Barbara , Colle Michael J. , Ünlü Gülhan
Published: May 2020

Safe, high‐quality meat that is minimally processed, containing few added chemicals, is what is desired by the modern consumer. Biological approaches to meat safety appear more natural and, thus, are more readily acceptable. In this review, we examine biological approaches for meat safety and quality in the preharvest animal as well as during slaughter and in the post‐harvest processing of the meat product. Biological components, including probiotics (Direct‐Fed Microbials), vaccines, bacteriocins and lytic bacteriophage, are important components of a comprehensive approach to meat safety and quality.
Product appropriateness, willingness to try and perceived risks of foods containing insect protein powder: A survey of U.S. consumers
Authors: Ardoin Ryan , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: May 2020

As a sustainable alternative to livestock consumption, insect protein has applications beyond meat substitution. However, strategies to normalise entomophagy in the United States have been less explored than in Europe. Two online surveys (N = 1005 U.S. consumers) identified the most appropriate products, from a list of 30, for insect protein powder incorporation by evaluating willingness to try (WTT). Consumers reported perceived risks for negative WTT, and the effect of entomophagy benefit information (EBI) on WTT was measured. Overall, 72% of consumers were willing to consume at least one insect‐containing product. The three most appropriate products were protein/energy bars, chips/snack crackers and protein shakes. Bakery/cereal products garnered positive WTT by >54% of consumers, followed by snacks/candy (53%). Unfamiliarity with insects as food was the most cited risk. EBI presentation significantly increased (α < 0.05, McNemar’s test) positive WTT for all products. Once unfamiliarity is overcome through trial, negative emotions and concerns about sensory quality can be addressed.
To what extent does severity of loneliness vary among different mental health diagnostic groups: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Alasmawi Khulood , Mann Farhana , Lewis Gemma , White Sarah , Mezey Gill , Lloyd-Evans Brynmor
Published: May 2020

Loneliness is a common and debilitating problem in individuals with mental health disorders. However, our knowledge on severity of loneliness in different mental health diagnostic groups and factors associated with loneliness is poor, thus limiting the ability to target and improve loneliness interventions. The current study investigated the association between diagnoses and loneliness and explored whether psychological and social factors were related to loneliness. This study employed a cross‐sectional design using data from a completed study which developed a measure of social inclusion. It included 192 participants from secondary, specialist mental health services with a primary diagnosis of psychotic disorders (n = 106), common mental disorders (n = 49), or personality disorders (n = 37). The study explored differences in loneliness between these broad diagnostic groups, and the relationship to loneliness of: affective symptoms, social isolation, perceived discrimination, and internalized stigma. The study adhered to the STROBE checklist for observational research. People with common mental disorders (MD = 3.94, CI = 2.15 to 5.72, P < 0.001) and people with personality disorders (MD = 4.96, CI = 2.88 to 7.05, P < 0.001) reported higher levels of loneliness compared to people with psychosis. These differences remained significant after adjustment for all psychological and social variables. Perceived discrimination and internalized stigma were also independently associated with loneliness and substantially contributed to a final explanatory model. The severity of loneliness varies between different mental health diagnostic groups. Both people with common mental disorders and personality disorders reported higher levels of loneliness than people with psychosis. Addressing perceived mental health discrimination and stigma may help to reduce loneliness.
Critical discrepancy in blood glucose control levels evaluated by glycated albumin and estimated hemoglobin A1c levels determined from a flash continuous glucose monitoring system in patients with type 2 diabetes on hemodialysis
Authors: Ushigome Emi , Matsusaki Seiko , Watanabe Nami , Hashimoto Tetsuya , Nakamura Naoto , Fukui Michiaki
Published: May 2020

We aimed to investigate if estimated hemoglobin A1c (eHbA1c) levels determined using a flash continuous glucose monitoring system could be an indicator of glycemic control status in hemodialysis patients with diabetes. Hemodialysis patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited. eHbA1c levels were measured using the FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System®. A total of 18 hemodialysis patients with diabetes were included in the study. The eHbA1cGA – calculated based on glycated albumin level, and body mass index and serum hemoglobin concentration were also included in the formula – was higher than the eHbA1c in most patients. Furthermore, the eHbA1cGA – eHbA1c values were >2% in all patients with body mass index <18.5 kg/m2; the maximal value was 4.1%. This study shows that eHbA1c can be used as a reliable indicator for evaluating glycemic control and avoiding hypoglycemia in hemodialysis patients with diabetes, particularly those with decreased body mass index.
Direct dopamine terminal regulation by local striatal microcircuitry
Authors: Nolan Suzanne O. , Zachry Jennifer E. , Johnson Amy R. , Brady Lillian J. , Siciliano Cody A. , Calipari Erin S.
Published: May 2020

Regulation of axonal dopamine release by local microcircuitry is at the hub of several biological processes that govern the timing and magnitude of signaling events in reward‐related brain regions. An important characteristic of dopamine release from axon terminals in the striatum is that it is rapidly modulated by local regulatory mechanisms. These processes can occur via homosynaptic mechanisms—such as presynaptic dopamine autoreceptors and dopamine transporters ‐ as well heterosynaptic mechanisms such as retrograde signaling from postsynaptic cholinergic and dynorphin systems, among others. Additionally, modulation of dopamine release via diffusible messengers, such as nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide, allows for various metabolic factors to quickly and efficiently regulate dopamine release and subsequent signaling. Here we review how these mechanisms work in concert to influence the timing and magnitude of striatal dopamine signaling, independent of action potential activity at the level of dopaminergic cell bodies in the midbrain, thereby providing a parallel pathway by which dopamine can be modulated. Understanding the complexities of local regulation of dopamine signaling is required for building comprehensive frameworks of how activity throughout the dopamine system is integrated to drive signaling and control behavior.

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Family Forerunners? Parental Separation and Partnership Formation in 16 Countries
Authors: Härkönen Juho , Brons M.D. (Anne) , Dronkers Jaap
Published: May 2020

Objective

To analyze the relationships between parental separation and partnership formation patterns across 16 countries and over time, and how the relationships are shaped by contextual factors.

Background

Several studies have found that parental separation predicts higher rates of cohabitation and lower rates of marriage. Few studies have analyzed these relationships over time or across countries, and none have systematically analyzed whether they are moderated by contextual factors.

Method

Retrospective partnership histories on 138,739 women and men from the Generations and Gender Survey and Harmonized Histories datafiles were used. Monthly data on entry into cohabitation or marriage as the first coresidential union, and on entry into marriage were analyzed using life table and event history techniques. The overall incidences of parental separation and of premarital cohabitation were used as contextual‐level measures in the event history analyses.

Results

The association between parental separation and partnership formation was moderated by the spread of premarital cohabitation. Higher incidence of cohabitation was associated with a weaker positive association between parental separation and cohabitation, and a more negative association between parental separation and marriage. The associations between parental separation and partnership formation were not weaker when parental separation was more common.

Conclusion

Children of divorce have been among the forerunners of the increase in cohabitation and the retreat from marriage.
Use of Temporary Primary Care Providers in Federally Qualified Health Centers
Authors: Han Xinxin , Chen Candice , Pittman Patricia
Published: May 2020

Objective

This study examines the use of temporary providers in federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in recent years and identifies associated factors.

Methods

Using 2013‐2017 federal administrative data of 1,028 FQHCs, we describe trends in the number and percentage of FQHCs that used temporary primary care physicians and advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and certified nurse midwives). We employed descriptive statistics to compare facility and patient characteristics between FQHCs that used and did not use temporary providers and constructed multivariate linear probability models to identify factors associated with their use.

Findings

Slightly over one‐third of FQHCs used temporary primary care providers during 2013‐2017. During this period, fewer FQHCs used temporary family physicians, while more FQHCs used nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Centers that used temporary providers were larger and less rural. Multivariate regression analysis showed that neither Health Professional Shortage Area facility scores (a measure of provider shortage), nor the county primary care provider‐to‐population ratio, was a predictor of temporary provider usage in FQHCs. Instead, facility regular primary care staff‐to‐patient ratio was positively associated with use of temporary providers.

Conclusion

Temporary providers tend to be used in FQHCs where measure of underservice appears to be less severe. Future research should use qualitative interviews or other data sources to explore further the underlying reasons for using temporary providers in FQHCs.
Plant dispersal strategies in primary succession on the Tolbachinsky Dol volcanic Plateau (Russia)
Authors: Korablev Anton , Smirnov Vadim , Neshataeva Valentina , Kuzmin Igor , Nekrasov Timofey
Published: May 2020

Questions

Dispersal strategies are crucial in the colonization of disturbed landscapes. This influences species expansion in early‐successional areas, determines dispersal distances, and affects the structure of communities. Volcanic eruptions destroy vegetation over vast areas and trigger community assembly processes in hostile environments. The questions are (a) Which dispersal strategies are advantageous during the colonization of primary areas? (b) Which environmental constraints drive species distributions according to their dispersal strategies? (c) Which dispersal or establishment traits are beneficial in the filtering processes during the community assembly?

Location

The study area was located in a primary volcanic habitat formed by the volcanic eruption in 1975–1976 in Tolbachinskii Dol Plateau, Kamchatka, Russia.

Methods

The composition of vascular plant species along environmental gradients was recorded. The proportion of species with different dispersal strategies was analysed under various conditions to determine the most successful dispersal mode. Logistic regressions were used to investigate the relationship between dispersal modes and environmental variables. Filtering processes acting on dispersal or establishment traits were revealed using linear modelling.

Results

Species without appendages for wind dispersal predominated in remote exposed sites, while species with seeds adapted for effective wind dispersal were common in more vegetated habitats, which support trapping and facilitation. Endozoochorous seeds occurred in woody communities and predominated in mature forests. The results show that the determinants of species composition according to dispersal mode are woody debris, shrub layer coverage and microrelief. Dispersal modes and life‐forms converged in the most severe habitats.

Conclusions

On the tephra plain, species without special adaptations for wind dispersal benefitted through the colonization of primary habitats, whereas anemochorous seeds were blown into natural traps. The aerodynamic characteristics of seeds and the turbulent features of habitats were important in primary succession, as well as biotic facilitation and environmental conditions. Both dispersal and environmental filters interactively shaped the community structure in early succession.
Protection of Geographical Indications in ASEAN countries: Convergences and challenges to awakening sleeping Geographical Indications
Authors: Marie‐Vivien Delphine
Published: May 2020

Geographical indications (GIs) that identify products of origin were born in Southern Europe and extensively internationalized thanks to the World Trade Organization 1994 Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights Agreement. This paper investigates how GIs have developed in ASEAN and Asia, the most active new area for GIs worldwide. We explore the different legislations and their practical implementation in eight out of 10 ASEAN countries with a sui generis system (Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar); and in India and Japan, two Asian countries with active GI policies. Building on a comparative analysis of these countries and the EU regulations on GIs, this paper focuses on the following aspects of the GI system: the sui generis institutional system and the kind of goods protected by GIs, the scope of protection against misuses, the nature of the applicants, and the nature of control of the GI before and after registration. The paper then identifies convergences and shared challenges and recommends some strategies to ensure the success of GIs in Asia. The main challenges shared by Asian countries concern the numerous registered GIs that are not used on the market, that is, they are Sleeping Beauties waiting to be awakened. This is explained by the convergence among ASEAN and Asian countries to a top‐down state‐driven approach. To move forward, we recommend more involvement of collective organizations to bring together value chain stakeholders who should play a central role in drawing up and managing GIs.
Sectioning effects of porphyritic chondrules: Implications for the PP/POP/PO classification and correcting modal abundances of mineralogically zoned chondrules
Authors: Barosch Jens , Hezel Dominik C. , Sawatzki Lena , Halbauer Lucia , Marrocchi Yves
Published: May 2020

Mineralogically zoned chondrules are a common chondrule type in chondrites. They consist of olivine cores, surrounded by low‐Ca pyroxene rims. By serial sectioning porphyritic chondrules from carbonaceous, ordinary, and enstatite chondrites, we demonstrate that the 2‐D textural appearances of these chondrules largely depend on where they are cut. The same chondrule may appear as a porphyritic pyroxene (PP) chondrule when sectioned through the low‐Ca pyroxene rim, and as a porphyritic olivine‐pyroxene (POP) or porphyritic olivine (PO) chondrule when sectioned close or through its equator. Chondrules previously classified into PP/POP/PO chondrules might therefore not represent different types, but various sections through mineralogically zoned chondrules. Classifying chondrule textures into PP, POP, and PO has therefore no unequivocal genetic meaning, it is merely descriptive. Sectioning effects further introduce a systematic bias when determining mineralogically zoned chondrule fractions from 2‐D sections. We determined correction factors to estimate 3‐D mineralogically zoned chondrule fractions when these have been determined in 2‐D sections: 1.24 for carbonaceous chondrites, 1.29 for ordinary chondrites, and 1.62 for enstatite chondrites. Using these factors then shows that mineralogically zoned chondrules are the dominant chondrule type in chondrites with estimated 3‐D fractions of 92% in CC, 52% in OC, and 46% in EC.
Cosmic‐ray exposure age and heliocentric distance of the parent body of the Rumuruti chondrite PRE 95410
Authors: Obase Tomoya , Nakashima Daisuke , Nakamura Tomoki , Nagao Keisuke
Published: May 2020

We measured concentrations and isotopic ratios of noble gases in the Rumuruti (R) chondrite Mount Prestrud (PRE) 95410, a regolith breccia exhibiting dark/light structures. The meteorite contains solar and cosmogenic noble gases. Based on the solar and cosmogenic noble gas compositions, we calculated a heliocentric distance of its parent body, a cosmic‐ray exposure age on the parent body regolith (parent body exposure age), and a cosmic‐ray exposure age in interplanetary space (space exposure age) of the meteorite. Assuming a constant solar wind flux, the estimated heliocentric distance was smaller than 1.4 ± 0.3 au, suggesting inward migration from the asteroid belt regions where the parent body formed. The largest known Mars Trojan 5261 Eureka is a potential parent body of PRE 95410. Alternatively, it is possible that the solar wind flux at the time of the parent body exposure was higher by a factor of 2–3 compared to the lunar regolith exposure. In this case, the estimated heliocentric distance is within the asteroid belt region. The parent body exposure age is longer than 19.1 Ma. This result indicates frequent impact events on the parent body like that recorded for other solar‐gas‐rich meteorites. Assuming single‐stage exposure after an ejection event from the parent body, the space exposure age is 11.0 ± 1.1 Ma, which is close to the peak of ~10 Ma in the exposure age distribution for the solar‐gas‐free R chondrites.
Meta‐analysis of dietary supplementation effect of turmeric and curcumin on growth performance in fish
Authors: Fagnon Mahougnon Siméon , Thorin Chantal , Calvez Segolène
Published: May 2020

Plant‐based additives are currently used in aquaculture for their various beneficial properties. Curcumin and turmeric are usually applied for their interesting results on growth performance of fish. In this paper, the effect of dietary inclusion of curcumin and turmeric powder on growth performance in fish was studied. Twenty data sets from 5 studies and 29 data sets from 8 publications were respectively computed for curcumin and turmeric in this analysis. Specific growth rate (SGR) was the quantitative criteria recorded for each data set. After, a brief systemic summary of each study, the quantitative analysis was performed. Results showed a significant increase in pooled standard mean difference (SMD) for both fixed and random model in curcumin and turmeric. Although fish species were categorized into family (subcategory), high heterogeneity (>96%) was found in all random and fixed model analysis. Contrary to turmeric, higher curcumin inclusion results in lower specific growth rate. The higher effect sizes observed when fed curcumin at lower inclusion levels suggests that feeding low levels of phytochemicals might be beneficial and its content in turmeric should be analysed for quite homogeneous feed. This study contributes to the analysis of overall growth performance properties of turmeric and curcumin incorporation in fish diet, irrespective to their strong antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities.
A Method for Comparing the Impact on Carcinogenicity of Tobacco Products: A Case Study on Heated Tobacco Versus Cigarettes
Authors: Slob Wout , Soeteman‐Hernández Lya G. , Bil Wieneke , Staal Yvonne C.M. , Stephens W. Edryd , Talhout Reinskje
Published: May 2020

Comparing the harmful health effects related to two different tobacco products by applying common risk assessment methods to each individual compound is problematic. We developed a method that circumvents some of these problems by focusing on the change in cumulative exposure (CCE) of the compounds emitted by the two products considered. The method consists of six steps. The first three steps encompass dose‐response analysis of cancer data, resulting in relative potency factors with confidence intervals. The fourth step evaluates emission data, resulting in confidence intervals for the expected emission of each compound. The fifth step calculates the change in CCE, probabilistically, resulting in an uncertainty range for the CCE. The sixth step estimates the associated health impact by combining the CCE with relevant dose‐response information. As an illustrative case study, we applied the method to eight carcinogens occurring both in the emissions of heated tobacco products (HTPs), a novel class of tobacco products, and tobacco smoke. The CCE was estimated to be 10‐ to 25‐fold lower when using HTPs instead of cigarettes. Such a change indicates a substantially smaller reduction in expected life span, based on available dose‐response information in smokers. However, this is a preliminary conclusion, as only eight carcinogens were considered so far. Furthermore, an unfavorable health impact related to HTPs remains as compared to complete abstinence. Our method results in useful information that may help policy makers in better understanding the potential health impact of new tobacco and related products. A similar approach can be used to compare the carcinogenicity of other mixtures.
“I have been refused to be treated by three dentists”: Barriers to patient care
Authors: Abed Hassan , Abuljadayel Jameel
Published: May 2020

Background

Factor X deficiency (known as; Stuart‐Prower factor deficiency or F10 deficiency) is a rare inherited bleeding disorder. It affects one per 1 million individuals worldwide. Patients with inherited bleeding disorder reported difficulty in accessing primary dental care either due to their medical diseases or their related barriers.

Aim

This article aims to identify barriers to oral health as perceived by the patient with factor X deficiency who had been refused treatment by three dentists. A further aim is to provide dentists with the knowledge required to manage patients diagnosed with factor X deficiency.

Methods and Case Report

A 30‐year‐old male with the inherited, severe factor X deficiency (<1%) was asked to complete a survey which includes 22 semistructured, validated questions to assess his perceived barriers to dental services. Dental examination revealed that the patient required having nonsurgical periodontal therapy under local anesthesia. The treatment plan was discussed with the patient and his hematologist. The patient's hematologist advised performing dental treatment shortly (ie, 1‐2 h) after hematological cover with a prothrombin complex concentrate (1000 U; Octoplex®) via intravenous infusion. The hematologist also prescribed tranexamic acid mouthwash (250 mg in 5 mL) and the patient was instructed to rinse his mouth for 3‐5 min with 500 μg (10 mL) in case of bleeding following treatment.

Findings

The patient reported several barriers to dental services such as high anxiety levels regarding oral bleeding, difficulty in finding a suitable dental clinic, high cost of dental treatment, and the need for hematological cover prior to dental treatment.

Conclusions

The proper communication between dentist and hematologist was a vital step to render safe and effective dental care and to reduce the patient's anxiety toward the dentist.
Optimism and pessimism: A cross‐country comparison
Authors: Rehman Fahd
Published: May 2020

Optimism and pessimism influence economic choices. If consumers are optimistic, they tend to spend a greater proportion of their budget shares on luxuries and a lesser proportion on necessities. Many models of consumer expenditure do not take into account the influence of optimism and pessimism. This paper demonstrates a way to indirectly measure optimism and pessimism by focusing on patterns in Engel curve residuals for necessities and luxuries. Using the revised International Comparison Program (ICP) 2005 data covering 144 countries, this paper presents economy‐wide optimism and pessimism indicators. These indicators provide a useful complement to traditional economic measures of standard of living such as real gross domestic product (GDP) in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms. These indicators are non‐economic in traditional terms. However, since they are constructed as residuals from an economic analysis, they could act as a very useful complement to traditional economic indicators and, as such, may be termed “quality of life” indicators.
Deterrent factors of blood donation among lapsed blood donors in the fixed sites of Taiwan
Authors: Yeh Cheng Hung , Zhao Yu Ying , Yang Gan Ping , Hung Chi Ming
Published: May 2020

Background and Objectives

Fixed blood donation sites are crucial sources in the stabilization process of blood bank stock level. In addition to recruiting new donors, ensuring that donors at a fixed site continue to donate blood and preventing donors from becoming lapsed donors is equally critical.

Materials and Methods

A total of 56 137 donors who had made whole blood donation at a fixed blood donation site in the past 2 years (from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2017), but failed to make another donation in the past year (from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017) were defined as lapsed donors in Kaohsiung Blood Center. This study sent questionnaires to these lapsed donors by mail to determine the blood donation motivation and deterrent factors.

Results

First‐time donors, female donors, donors of 17–30 years old, students, service sector employees, donors who last donated at a mobile blood donation vehicle and donors who have only made one donation are the primary focal point of this study. These donors are the lapsed donors from fixed blood donation sites. This study revealed that lapsed donors from different demographic groups indeed have different motivation and deterrent factors. However, the majority of donors do not oppose blood donation. The main reason for them to stop donating blood is work and family.

Conclusion

Analysing the features of lapsed donors helps develop strategies for stabilizing the blood bank stock level, thereby enhancing invitations to specific groups to increase blood donation frequency and transforming donors into regular donors.
Definitive‐intent intensity‐modulated radiation therapy provides similar outcomes to those previously published for definitive‐intent three‐dimensional conformal radiation therapy in dogs with primary brain tumors: A multi‐institutional retrospective study
Authors: Van Asselt Nathaniel , Christensen Neil , Meier Valeria , Rohrer Bley Carla , Laliberte Sarah , Poirier Valerie J. , Desai Noopur , Chen Yi , Turek Michelle
Published: May 2020

Radiotherapy with or without surgery is a common choice for brain tumors in dogs. Although numerous studies have evaluated use of three‐dimensional conformal radiotherapy, reports of definitive‐intent, IMRT for canine intracranial tumors are lacking. Intensity‐modulated radiation therapy has the benefit of decreasing dose to nearby organs at risk and may aid in reducing toxicity. However, increasing dose conformity with IMRT calls for accurate target delineation and daily patient positioning, in order to decrease the risk of a geographic miss. To determine survival outcome and toxicity, we performed a multi‐institutional retrospective observational study evaluating dogs with brain tumors treated with IMRT. Fifty‐two dogs treated with fractionated, definitive‐intent IMRT at four academic radiotherapy facilities were included. All dogs presented with neurologic signs and were diagnosed via MRI. Presumed radiological diagnoses included 37 meningiomas, 12 gliomas, and one peripheral nerve sheath tumor. One dog had two presumed meningiomas and one dog had either a glioma or meningioma. All dogs were treated in the macroscopic disease setting and were prescribed a total dose of 45‐50 Gy (2.25‐2.5 Gy per fraction in 18‐20 daily fractions). Median survival time for all patients, including seven cases treated with a second course of therapy was 18.1 months (95% confidence of interval 12.3‐26.6 months). As previously described for brain tumors, increasing severity of neurologic signs at diagnosis was associated with a worse outcome. Intensity‐modulated radiation therapy was well tolerated with few reported acute, acute delayed, or late side effects.