bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Putting the Empirical Commodity Storage Model Back on Track: Crucial Implications of a “Negligible” Trend
Authors: Bobenrieth Eugenio S.A. , Bobenrieth Juan R.A. , Guerra Ernesto A. , Wright Brian D. , Zeng Di
Published: November 2020

The dynamics of consumption and stocks are crucial for analysis of commodity prices and policies. But empirical application of the standard storage model has been derailed by failure to replicate high real price autocorrelation. Our proposed storage model is the first empirical model to recognize the full implications of nonstationarity for price behavior and speculative arbitrage with an occasionally binding non‐negativity constraint, a challenge shared by DSGE models in macroeconomics and growth. Our consistent least squares strategy estimates first the endogenous price trend induced by a latent trend in production and then the interest rate and a target separating two distinct dynamic regimes. In one, price has a stochastic trend with drift equal to the interest rate; in the other, price exhibits expected jumps from current price to a trending target price in the stockout region. Neglect of small trends can increase measured price autocorrelation and variation to the high observed levels.
Caveolin‐1 influences epithelial collective cell migration via FMNL2 formin
Authors: Katsuno‐Kambe Hiroko , Parton Robert G. , Yap Alpha S. , Teo Jessica L.
Published: November 2020

Background Information

Epithelial collective cell migration requires the intrinsic locomotor activity of cells to be coordinated across populations. This coordination is governed by the presence of cell–cell adhesions as well as the cooperative behaviour of cells within the monolayer.

Results

Here, we report a role for Caveolin‐1 (CAV1) in epithelial collective cell migration. CAV1 depletion reduced the migratory behaviour of AML12 liver epithelial cells when grown as monolayers, but not as individual cells. This suggested that CAV1 is a component of the process by which multicellular collectivity regulates epithelial motility. The correlation length for migration velocity was increased by CAV1 RNAi, a possible sign of epithelial jamming. However, CAV1 RNAi reduced migration, even when monolayers were allowed to migrate into unconfined spaces. The migratory defect was ameliorated by simultaneous depletion of the FMNL2 formin, whose cortical recruitment is increased in CAV1 RNAi cells.

Conclusions

We therefore suggest that CAV1 modulates intraepithelial motility by controlling the cortical availability of FMNL2.

Significance

Although epithelial collective cell migration has been observed in multiple contexts both in vivo and in vitro, the inherent coupling and coordination of activity between cells within the monolayer remain incompletely understood. Our study highlights a role for CAV1 in regulating intraepithelial motility, an effect that involves the formin FMNL2.
Impact of gastrointestinal symptoms on quality of life in MEN2
Authors: Goncharova Mariia , Grey Joanna , Druce Maralyn
Published: November 2020

Context

Besides medullary thyroid carcinoma and other endocrinopathies, people with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN2) are at risk of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.

Objective

To investigate the impact of GI symptoms on the daily lives of patients with MEN2.

Design

An online survey was conducted among patients with MEN2 via the Association for Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Disorders (AMEND).

Methods

The survey incorporated two validated questionnaires for the assessment of GI symptoms (SAGIS, PAC‐QoL).

Participants

There were 91 respondents, MEN2A (n = 57), MEN2B (n = 34).

Results

People in the MEN2A group reported a high level of GI symptoms, the most prevalent being abdominal pain 85% (n = 49), diarrhoea 85% (n = 49) and constipation 75% (n = 43) with one patient having a SAGIS score > 10/12 in the constipation domain. People in the MEN2B group reported constipation in 79% (n = 27) with one quarter of these scoring > 10/12 in the constipation domain. Other GI symptoms included diarrhoea 62% (n = 21), excessive gas and flatulence (79%), epigastric pain (59%) abdominal cramps (76%) and dysphagia (41%). The effect of constipation on quality of life was severe in all MEN2 patients as measured by PAC‐QOL and all patients reported dissatisfaction of with their current treatment for constipation. There was a trend towards higher severity of GI symptoms in MEN2B.

Conclusions

We report unmet needs of patients with MEN2 syndromes. The GI symptoms, especially constipation, had a severe impact on quality of life in people with MEN2. This suggests that there is room for improvement in the quality of care offered for these patients.
The safety and efficacy of supervised exercise on pregnant women with overweight/obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Muhammad Harry Freitag Luglio , Pramono Adriyan , Rahman Muhammad Nurhadi
Published: November 2020

Behavioural modification through physical activity and dietary counselling has been shown to have beneficial effects on pregnant women with overweight/obesity. Whether exercise alone with supervision (ie, supervised exercise) may also benefit for pregnant women with overweight/obesity is still unknown. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of supervised exercise on pregnant women with overweight/obesity. PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), and Web of Science were used to search publications using a combination of main keywords “obesity”, “exercise”, “pregnant women”, and “randomised controlled trial”. From a total of 740 publications, 11 randomized controlled trials were included. All studies reported no adverse effects of supervised exercise on pregnant women with overweight/obesity. Of interest, this meta‐analysis showed gestational weight gain (GWG) was lower in the supervised exercise group as compared to control (Mean difference 0.88 kg, 95%CI ‐1.73 to −0.03, P = .04). There was a significant effect of supervised exercise on post‐prandial blood glucose (MD: ‐0.24, 95%CI ‐0.47 to −0.01, P = .04) and insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) (MD: ‐0.18, 95%CI ‐0.30 to −0.05, P = .005). There were no differences in risk of gestational diabetes mellitus, pre‐eclampsia/gestational hypertension, and newborn outcomes (eg, infants birth weight, preterm birth incident, and gestational age) (all P > .05). This meta‐analysis might suggest beneficial effects of supervised exercise on pregnant women with overweight/obesity to prevent excessive GWG, attenuates insulin resistance, and the post‐prandial blood glucose level.
Treatment of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer resection: The TENTACLE–Rectum study
Authors: van Workum Frans , Talboom Kevin , Hannink Gerjon , Wolthuis Albert , de Lacy Borja F. , Lefevre Jeremie H. , Solomon Michael , Frasson Matteo , Rotholtz Nicolas , Denost Quentin , Perez Rodrigo Oliva , Konishi Tsuyoshi , Panis Yves , Rosman Camiel , Hompes Roel , Tanis Pieter J. , de Wilt Johannes H. W.
Published: November 2020

Aim

Anastomotic leakage is a severe complication after low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer and occurs in up to 20% of patients. Most research focuses on reducing its incidence and finding predictive factors for anastomotic leakage. There are no robust data on severity and treatment strategies with associated outcomes. The aims of this work were (1) to investigate the factors that contribute to severity of anastomotic leakage and to compose an anastomotic leakage severity score and (2) to evaluate the effects of different treatment approaches on prespecified outcome parameters, stratified for severity score and other leakage characteristics.

Method

TENTACLE–Rectum is an international multicentre retrospective cohort study. Patients with anastomotic leakage after LAR for primary rectal cancer between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018 will be included by each centre. We aim to include 1246 patients in this study. The primary outcome is 1‐year stoma‐free survival (i.e. patients alive at 1 year without a stoma). Secondary outcomes include number of reinterventions and unplanned readmissions within 1 year, total length of hospital stay, total time with a stoma, the type of stoma present at 1 year (defunctioning, permanent), complications related to secondary leakage and mortality. For aim (1) regression models will be used to create an anastomotic leakage severity score. For aim (2) the effectiveness of different treatment strategies for leakage will be tested after correction for severity score and leakage characteristics, in addition to other potential related confounders.

Conclusion

TENTACLE–Rectum will be an important step towards drawing up evidence‐based recommendations and improving outcomes for patients who experience severe treatment‐related morbidity.
The association of the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio with the presence of minimal residual disease and outcome in patients with Stage II colon cancer treated with surgery alone
Authors: Murray Nigel P. , Villalon Ricardo , Orrego Shenda , Guzman Eghon
Published: November 2020

Aim

Despite curative surgery, 25% of patients with Stage II colorectal cancer will relapse due to minimal residual disease (MRD). Markers of immune function, such as the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), may be associated with MRD defined by bone marrow micro‐metastasis (mM) and circulating tumour cells (CTCs).

Method

A prospective cohort study of consecutive patients with Stage II colon cancer patients attended at a single centre between 2007 and 2014. Blood and bone marrow samples were taken to detect CTCs and mM using immunocytochemistry with anti‐carcinoembryonic antigen 1 month after surgery. The NLR and absolute neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were determined immediately pre‐surgery and 1 month post‐surgery. These were compared with the sub‐types of MRD: group I MRD(−); group II mM positive and group III CTC positive. Cut‐off values of the NLR of >3.0 and >5.0 were used. Follow‐up was for up to 5 years or relapse and disease‐free survival (DFS) was calculated using Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

In all, 181 patients (99 women) participated. Mean age was 68 years. Median follow‐up was 4.04 years: I, N = 105; II, N = 36; III, N = 40. The NLR significantly decreased post‐surgery only in group I patients. The frequency of NLR >3.0 and >5.0 was significantly higher in group III; between groups I and II there was no significant difference. 5‐year DFS was 98% in group I, 68% in group II and 7% in group III.

Conclusions

Patients with a significantly higher immune dysfunction had a shorter time to disease progression, a worse DFS and the presence of CTCs.
DO BETTER INSTITUTIONS BROADEN ACCESS TO SANITATION IN SUB‐SAHARA AFRICA?
Authors: Francois John Nana , Kakeu Johnson , Kouame Cristelle
Published: November 2020

Inadequate access to sanitation remains a persistent issue in sub‐Saharan African countries, affecting children, women, and workers. We employ dynamic panel estimation to uncover the empirical relationship between institutions and access to sanitation in sub‐Sahara Africa. We find that control of corruption, regulatory quality, and voice and accountability increase access to sanitation. Moreover, a dichotomy exists between rural and urban areas in that efficient corruption control, rule of law, and government effectiveness facilitate access to sanitation in rural areas. However, only voice and accountability matter in urban areas. These findings generate important policy implications in achieving universal access to sanitation. (JEL D72, O55, O180, P16)
Avoiding surveillance biopsy: Use of a noninvasive biomarker assay in a real‐life scenario
Authors: Ang Audrey , Schieve Courtney , Rose Stanley , Kew Clifton , First M. Roy , Mannon Roslyn B.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

TruGraf™ blood test measures a specific gene expression signature in peripheral blood mononuclear cells for noninvasive assessment of kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) with stable renal function, excluding subclinical acute rejection (subAR) with high degree of confidence. Study objective was to correlate TruGraf™ test with 6‐month surveillance biopsy (SBx).

Methods

Prospective, single‐center study of 116 consecutive KTRs with SBx performed at 6 months post‐transplant..TruGraf™ done at time of SBx; results compared with histology (Banff 2017) for concordance.

Results

Of 116 enrollees, 26 excluded, absent biopsy (n = 17), test quality control issues (n = 9), leaving 90 KTRs—66% deceased donor kidneys, 58% African American, and 59% male. TruGraf™ result negative in 67 subjects; 54 had normal biopsy, indicating SBx could have been avoided. Eight subjects had true positive result where biopsy justified. Unnecessary biopsy would have been performed in 15 subjects with false‐positive TruGraf™, and subAR missed in 13 subjects with false‐negative test. In overall population of 90 patients, SBx would have been avoided in 54 (60%).

Conclusions

Implementation of TruGraf™ testing in a “real‐world” cohort at the time of SBx identified a significant proportion of KTRs that could have avoided SBx.
Niche shift of tephritid species after the Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) invasion in La Réunion
Authors: Moquet Laura , Payet Jim , Glenac Serge , Delatte Hélène
Published: November 2020

Aim

In a context of successive fruit fly invasions (Tephritidae), this study investigated how the top invader, Bactrocera dorsalis, displaced established fruit fly populations. We focused, particularly, on how this invasion impacted the host range and climatic niche of each resident species.

Location

La Réunion, France, Indian Ocean.

Methods

We collected fruit from more than 100 plant species across the island, in cultivated and non‐cultivated areas at different altitudes in order to monitor the emergence of fruit flies. Fruit collection was conducted over two field campaigns: from 2001 to 2009, before the B. dorsalis invasion; and from 2018 to 2019, after the B. dorsalis invasion. We compared the distribution and host range of fruit fly species for the two periods.

Results

Our results confirmed the generalist character of B. dorsalis, with the infestation of 52 out of 112 of the fruit species collected in the field. After the B. dorsalis invasion, we observed a shift in the host range and spatial distribution of established tephritids. The host range of specialist species that only share a few host species with B. dorsalis did not change significantly. On the contrary, we observed a significant shift in diversity or proportion of host range and climatic niches for the generalist species, such as Bactrocera zonata, Ceratitis quilicii and Ceratitis capitata.

Main conclusions

We provide evidence of the competitive displacement induced by B. dorsalis on other established species. The coexistence between B. dorsalis and generalist Ceratitis species seems possible because they have different responses to climatic conditions or the capacity to exploit other host fruit species. In contrast, the coexistence of B. zonata with B. dorsalis seems to be compromised because both species have similar ecological requirements. This research provides useful information for managing invasions, particularly since understanding competitive displacements is essential for the identification of empty niches and for modelling potential species distribution.
Exploring the organisational context of research misconduct in higher learning institutions in Malaysia
Authors: Olesen Angelina P. , Amin Latifah , Mahadi Zurina , Ibrahim Maznah
Published: November 2020

Due to the financial pressure caused by cutbacks in funding and the race to achieve higher university rankings, researchers are competing for limited funds. These funds enable researchers to contribute to the scientific enterprise and to secure better positions. Given this pressure, there is a need to understand how academic organisations can influence academic integrity. This study uses a qualitative methodology and incudes in‐depth interviews with 22 voluntary participants from various Malaysian public and private universities and with different research backgrounds and experience. The findings suggest that mentorship, the pressure to perform, the research environment and research policies related to misconduct can contribute to research misconduct. According to the participants, reward systems that are heavily dependent on publication records can result in a research environment that is not conducive to research ethics, and which creates self‐centred individualistic researchers rather than team players. This can lead to bad mentorship where researchers are more concerned with their own performance and do not prioritise their teaching and supervising of junior researchers. The endorsement of well‐written research policies may have little significant value for research misconduct without enforcement and awareness of the importance of research integrity. This paper is an attempt to encourage university management to promote research integrity among individuals who are directly or indirectly involved in the research process by taking action against those involved in misconduct. It also suggests rewarding researchers based on their overall performance rather than solely on their publication record.
Hospital resource use after hip reconstruction surgery in children with neurological complex chronic conditions
Authors: Berry Jay G , Difazio Rachel L , Melvin Patrice , Glader Laurie , Casto Elizabeth , Shore Benjamin J
Published: November 2020

Aim

To assess how co‐occurring conditions influence recovery after hip reconstruction surgery in children with neurological complex chronic conditions (CCCs).

Method

This was a retrospective analysis of 4058 children age 4 years or older with neurological CCCs who underwent hip reconstructive surgery between 1st January 2015 and 31st December 2018 in 49 children’s hospitals. The presence of co‐occurring chronic conditions was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research Chronic Condition Indicator system. Multivariable, hierarchical regression was used to assess the relationship between co‐existing conditions and postoperative hospital length of stay (LOS), cost, and 30‐day readmission rate.

Results

The most common co‐occurring conditions were digestive (60.1%) and respiratory (37.9%). As the number of co‐existing conditions increased from one to four or more, median LOS increased 67% (3d [interquartile range {IQR} 2–4d] to 5d [IQR 3–8d]); median hospital cost increased 41% ($20 248 [IQR $14 921–$27 842] to $28 692 [IQR $19 236–$45 887]); and readmission rates increased 250% (5.5–13.9%), p<0.001 for all. Of all specific co‐existing chronic conditions, malnutrition was associated with the greatest increase in postoperative hospital resource use.

Interpretation

Co‐occurring conditions, and malnutrition in particular, are a significant risk factor for prolonged, in‐hospital recovery after hip reconstruction surgery in children with a neurological CCC. Further investigation is necessary to assess how improved preoperative optimization of multiple co‐occurring conditions may improve postoperative outcomes and resource utilization.

What this paper adds

Children with neurological complex chronic conditions (CCCs) often develop hip disorders which require hip reconstruction surgery.

Co‐occurring conditions are common in children with neuromuscular CCCs.

Having four or more chronic conditions was associated with a longer length of stay, increased costs, and higher odds of readmission.

Malnutrition was a significant risk factor for prolonged hospitalization after hip reconstruction surgery.
Vibrotactile sense 5 years after carpal tunnel release in people with diabetes: A prospective study with matched controls
Authors: Thomsen Niels O. B. , Dahlin Lars B.
Published: November 2020

Aim

To compare vibrotactile sense, 5 years after carpal tunnel release in people with and without diabetes.

Methods

Out of 35 people with diabetes and carpal tunnel syndrome, age‐ and gender‐matched with 31 people without diabetes but with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome, 27 and 30 people, respectively, participated in this prolonged follow‐up. Vibration perception threshold of the index and little finger (median and ulnar nerve, respectively), 5 years after surgery, was measured at seven different frequencies (8, 16, 32, 64, 125, 250 and 500 Hz).

Results

Significant improvement of vibration perception threshold from 1 to 5 years after carpal tunnel release was found at 64 Hz for people with diabetes, while improvement for people without diabetes was demonstrated at several frequencies (64–250 Hz). However, both groups demonstrated a significant decrease in vibration perception threshold for the low frequencies (8–16 Hz). At 5 years, people with diabetes had significantly impaired vibration perception threshold at the index finger for high frequencies (125–500 Hz), and for nearly all frequencies (16 Hz, 64–500 Hz) at the little finger, compared to people without diabetes.

Conclusion

After carpal tunnel release, significant mid‐term improvement of vibrotactile sense appears limited for people with diabetes, compared to a continuous improvement for people without diabetes. In addition, a decline in low‐frequency vibrotactile sense occurs for the median as well as the ulnar nerve innervated fingers.

Clinical Trial Registration NCT01201109
Discussing the political survival of Romanian ministers since 1989—Do economic conditions matter?
Authors: Mourao Paulo Reis , Popescu Alina Irina
Published: November 2020

Political longevity in young democracies has attracted the attention of scholars and practitioners alike due to several particular characteristics of such democracies, such as a low level of trust, a low level of credibility, corruption, economic difficulties, a less well‐established rule of law and an increased bureaucracy. In such a context, we studied the tenure duration of Romanian ministers since 1989, as well as their accumulated political longevity in ministerial offices. Using proportional hazards regression, we observed some peculiarities in the young Romanian democracy in comparison with more established regimes. We observed that left‐wing majorities tend to increase the probability of seat changes and thus diminish tenure longevity. We also observed that good economic conditions may lead to the substitution of certain types of ministries, while higher inflation rates tend to shorten tenure longevity for Romanian ministers. Moreover, our estimations support the finding that Romanian ministers tend to have shorter tenures as the number of past ministerial functions increases and that the burden of simultaneously managing various ministries significantly contributes to the shorter political longevity of a given minister. Finally, recent ministers have had longer tenures than those in the first years after the fall of communism in Eastern Europe in 1989.
Effects of cold stress on metabolic regulation in the overwintering larvae of the Chinese white pine beetle, Dendroctonus armandi
Authors: Fu Danyang , Dai Lulu , Ning Hang , Kang Xiaotong , Sun Yaya , Chen Hui
Published: November 2020

The Chinese white pine beetle, Dendroctonus armandi Tsai & Li (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), is considered the most destructive forest pest in the Qinling and Bashan Mountains of China. In recent years, winter temperature has dropped in these regions, and extremely low temperatures are hard to survive for insects. Cold hardiness becomes a crucial strategy because temperature change often leads to fluctuations in insect abundance, and the metabolism rate is a key index of resistance to cold in overwintering insects. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between the change in respiratory rate and the activity of metabolism‐related mitochondrial enzymes in D. armandi larvae under cold conditions. We found that the respiratory rate decreased, and it was matched with the activity of glutamate dehydrogenase, aconitase, and lipase during overwintering. Among the various test times under cold conditions, the respiratory rate also decreased with decreasing temperature and increased under very low temperatures. At all cold stress periods, glutamate dehydrogenase and lipase showed increased activity at higher temperatures and decreased activity under lower temperatures, but the activity of NAD‐malic enzyme, NADP‐malic enzyme, mitochondrial isocitrate dehydrogenase, and aconitase were contrary. Under all low temperatures, the activity of enzymes – except for NADP‐malic enzyme, glutamate dehydrogenase, and lipase – increased in short‐term cold stress and decreased in long‐term cold stress at 4, 0, −4, −6, −8, and −10 °C. However, at −2 °C, the activity of enzymes showed a decreasing trend in short‐term treatments and an increasing trend in long‐term treatments, except for mitochondrial isocitrate dehydrogenase. The results not only improve our understanding of the metabolic mechanism of cold adaptation in D. armandi, but also provide an important experimental basis for further study and biological pest control.
Contests between beneficial natural enemies: brood‐guarding parasitoids vs. foraging predators
Authors: Velasco‐Hernandez Maria C. , Shameer K.S. , Nasser M. , Moya‐Raygoza Gustavo , Hardy Ian C.W.
Published: November 2020

Beneficial insects, such as natural enemies, are important to agro‐ecosystem functioning and thus agricultural production. Parasitoids and predators can provide sustainable long‐term solutions to pest problems (biological control), reducing the need for expensive and sometimes polluting pesticide applications. When several species of beneficial insects are present, their pest control actions may be additive, synergistic, or disruptive. One form of disruptive interaction between parasitoids and predators is direct interspecific contest for access to individual pests (the resource to be exploited). This study evaluated behavioural interactions between brood‐guarding wasps, Goniozus nephantidis (Muesebeck) (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae), which are known to engage in intra‐specific contests, and a predatory bug, Cardiastethus exiguus (Poppius) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae), which attack the same pest species, Opisina arenosella (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae), a major pest in coconut production systems. Dyadic parasitoid–predator and predator–predator contests were staged to determine the factors that influence the behaviours within, and outcomes of, such interactions. Parasitoids were aggressive towards predators, sometimes killing them, but predators were not aggressive towards parasitoids. Biting and stinging only occurred when there was a host larva present. In the absence of the parasitoid that had oviposited onto a host, predators often consumed the parasitoid’s eggs. Egg consumption sometimes occurred when the parasitoid was present. Intra‐specific competition between pairs of predators was also evaluated: adults were aggressive towards each other, but interactions were not fatal. Biting was more common when there was no prey larva present. When a larva was present, predators were observed feeding simultaneously. We conclude that direct parasitoid–predator interactions are likely to influence pest population dynamics, possibly reducing the overall suppression of O. arenosella by its natural enemies.
Protocol for assessing soybean antixenosis toHeliothis virescens
Authors: Eduardo Wellington Ivo , Boiça Júnior Arlindo Leal , de Moraes Renato Franco Oliveira , de Souza Bruno Henrique Sardinha , Louvandini Helder , Barbosa José Carlos
Published: November 2020

Larvae ofHeliothis virescens(Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) often infest soybean crops,Glycine max(L.) (Fabaceae), causing significant yield losses in important soybean‐producing regions. The use of soybean varieties resistant to lepidopteran larvae is a major approach in soybean integrated pest management. However, standardization and optimization of bioassays that are used to screen genotypes for insect resistance are essential for high‐throughput phenotyping. Methodologies for screening were assessed to determine the most effective method for discriminating levels of antixenosis toH. virescensin soybean plants. Feeding and oviposition preference assays were performed to determine optimal densities of larvae and adults, and optimal plant structures and growth stages for conducting assays. In addition, trichome densities, and fiber and lignin contents were quantified in plant structures of soybean cultivars differing in resistance. Resistance levels of cultivars were best differentiated using nine neonate larvae and two 6‐day‐old larvae, and by using young leaves of plants at the vegetative stage. This was likely due to the more pronounced differences in lignin and fiber contents in young leaves of vegetative‐stage plants. Density of adult pairs, plant structure, and growth stage did not affect ability to distinguish differences in oviposition preference byH. virescens. Higher numbers of eggs were found on the leaves, which were the plant structures that exhibited the lowest trichome densities. The protocol developed in this work will benefit future evaluations of soybean genotypes for antixenosis againstH. virescens.
Soil fungal mycelia have unexpectedly flexible stoichiometric C:N and C:P ratios
Authors: Camenzind Tessa , Philipp Grenz Kay , Lehmann Johannes , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: November 2020

Soil ecological stoichiometry provides powerful theories to integrate the complex interplay of element cycling and microbial communities into biogeochemical models. One essential assumption is that microbes maintain stable C:N:P (carbon:nitrogen:phosphorus) ratios independent of resource supply, although such homeostatic regulations have rarely been assessed in individual microorganisms. Here, we report an unexpected high flexibility in C:N and C:P values of saprobic fungi along nutrient supply gradients, overall ranging between 7‐126 and 20‐1488, respectively, questioning microbial homeostasis. Fungal N:P varied comparatively less due to simultaneous reductions in mycelial N and P contents. As a mechanism, internal recycling processes during mycelial growth and an overall reduced N and P uptake appear more relevant than element storage. The relationships among fungal stoichiometry and growth disappeared in more complex media. These findings affect our interpretation of stoichiometric imbalances among microbes and soils and are highly relevant for developing microbial soil organic carbon and nitrogen models.
Composition and distribution of the larval decapod community in the deep sea of the Western Mediterranean Sea Balearic Sub‐basin
Authors: Carbonell Aina , Aparicio‐González Alberto , Papiol Vanesa , Cartes Joan Enric
Published: November 2020

Mechanisms facilitating larvae transport from continental to more oceanic areas were investigated in the Balearic sub‐basin (BSB), Western Mediterranean Sea. The abundance, distribution, and development stages of decapod larvae were recorded for a transect of 28 stations crossing the central eddy of the BSB. Zooplankton samples were taken to 1,800 m depth by horizontal and oblique 500‐µm mesh size nets hauls towed near the benthic boundary (BBL) and in deep scattering layers (DSL). In total, 67 taxa belonging to Decapoda and one Stomatopoda were identified. Advanced development represented 75% of the individuals recorded. 75% of the species corresponded to adults of deep‐sea species, 9% were sergestids (mesopelagic species), and the remaining 16% corresponded to shelf and coastal species. Cluster assemblages formed were related to the hydrological conditions, water masses dynamics, and geomorphologic structures mainly associated with nepheloid layers. Advanced and juvenile specimens of commercial species such as Parapenaeus longirostris, Geryon longipes, and Aristeus antennatus were found close to seafloor BBL. The influence of trophic ecology should be considered as the priority factor of larvae concentrations in deep.
Management guideline for Werner syndrome 2020. 2. Sarcopenia associated with Werner syndrome
Authors: Kuzuya Masafumi , Takemoto Minoru , Kubota Yoshitaka , Taniguchi Toshibumi , Motegi Sei‐Ichiro , Taniguchi Akira , Nakagami Hironori , Maezawa Yoshiro , Koshizaka Masaya , Kato Hisaya , Mori Seijiro , Tsukamoto Kazuhisa , Yokote Koutaro
Published: November 2020

Aim

Sarcopenia is defined as a condition that combines decreased skeletal muscle mass with weakness or decreased physical function. It is well known that in older adults, the presence of sarcopenia is a risk of frailty, falls and physical dysfunction. Patients with Werner syndrome are characterized by visceral fat accumulation and thin limbs, but the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with Werner syndrome has not been investigated.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using Werner syndrome and skeletal muscle as keywords. We also analyzed data from our 7 Werner syndrome patients.

Results

A literature search on the relationship between Werner syndrome and skeletal muscle yielded only one article reported from Japan. According to this paper, a decrease in skeletal muscle mass (appendicular skeletal muscle index) was observed in all 9 Werner syndromes investigated. On the other hand, in our 7 Werner syndrome patients, their appendicular skeletal muscle indexes were below the standard value except for one male patient who had continued resistance exercise.

Conclusion

The decrease in skeletal muscle mass frequently occurs in patients with Werner syndrome. However, resistance exercise may prevent the appearance of sarcopenia and requires early intervention in patients with Werner syndrome. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 139–141.
Cross‐icecap spring migration confirmed in a high‐Arctic seabird, the Ivory GullPagophila eburnea
Authors: Frederiksen Morten , Gilg Olivier , Yannic Glenn
Published: November 2020

Seabirds rarely cross major terrestrial barriers during seasonal migration, possibly because they have a limited ability to build up fat stores. For the first time, we tracked two Ivory Gulls with GPS loggers during spring migration from the wintering area in Davis Strait to the breeding colony in north‐east Greenland. While one bird migrated in March around the southern tip of Greenland, the other delayed migration until May and crossed the Greenland icecap north of 70°N, covering 1345 km in 29 h. Several aspects of the crossing were noteworthy: the track was remarkably direct, the bird made several stops (totalling 6 h) on the icecap, and the bird increased its flying altitude to nearly 3000 m over West Greenland and > 4000 m over East Greenland.
Many objective robust decision‐making model for agriculture decisions (MORDMAgro)
Authors: González Xavier Ignacio , Bert Federico , Podestá Guillermo
Published: November 2020

Each year, farmers must decide crops and their agronomical management for the plots of their farms. This decision—subject to climatic interaction and crop prices context—will determine farm earnings. We introduce a framework, called MORDMAgro, based on Many Objective Robust Decision‐Making methodology to support farmers' decisions. Through the use of a scenario approach, the framework aims to assist in situations where there is no agreement on how to represent the uncertain critical parameters that affect the outcome, that is, crop prices or weather conditions. It considers seven decision objectives that focus on costs, margins, utilities, returns, losses, gains, and regrets to integrate a comprehensive range of farmers’ goals. The framework outputs robust strategies to farmers, that is, land allocation to crops that return acceptable outcomes for as many scenarios as possible, rather than finding an “optimal” strategy that optimizes one or several objectives. It also identifies critical scenario factors that decrease a decision's payback by a classification tree algorithm. We applied the framework to a case study of a farm in the Argentine Pampas to identify robust strategies from typical cropping alternatives based on wheat, maize, and soybean. We share all scripting and data to ensure reproducibility and foster the framework's usage.
Efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to local wound infiltration anaesthesia: A meta‐analysis with trial sequential analysis of 23 randomised controlled trials
Authors: Ren Yifeng , Wei Mengling , Liu Hong , Wang Yao , Chen Hairuo , Li Zhuohong , Shi Wei , You Fengming
Published: November 2020

To further identify the real efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to local wound infiltration anaesthesia, we conducted this meta‐analysis. The systematic search strategy was performed using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Chinese databases. As a result, a total of 23 RCTs (1445 patients) were included. Patients receiving dexmedetomidine combined with local anaesthetics had a lower rescue analgesia rate [risk ratio (RR): 0.48; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.36‐0.65] and lower rescue analgesic consumption [weighted mean difference (WMD): −10.80 mg; 95%CI: −13.28 to −8.31 mg] than patients receiving local anaesthetics alone. The dexmedetomidine‐related adverse reactions included bradycardia (RR: 1.33; 95%CI: 0.32‐5.56) and hypotension (RR: 3.00; 95%CI: 0.49‐18.42). In addition, the time to first analgesic request (WMD: 296.16 minutes; 95%CI: 165.69 minutes ~ 426.63 minutes), incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and pain scores at 4 hours postoperatively were also significantly lower in patients receiving dexmedetomidine combined with local anaesthetics. This meta‐analysis demonstrated that the use of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to wound infiltration is effective for reducing the rescue analgesia rate, rescue analgesic consumption and PONV. In addition, limited evidence shows that dexmedetomidine can prolong postoperative analgesia for approximately 5 hours. Further investigations on dexmedetomidine‐related adverse reactions and the dose–response effect of dexmedetomidine in wound infiltration are warranted.
Transparent cobalt‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Co2+:YAG) ceramics—An innovatory fast saturable absorber
Authors: Szysiak Agnieszka , Leśniewska‐Matys Kamila , Węglarz Helena , Gołębiewski Przemysław , Podniesiński Dariusz , Kozłowska Anna
Published: November 2020

Highly transparent Y3Al5O12 (YAG) ceramics doped with 0.025 and 0.05 at.% Co ions were prepared for the first time by the freeze granulation process and reaction sintering. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were performed to analyze the microstructure and crystal structure of the samples. The absorption spectra of the Co2+:YAG ceramics were measured at room temperature, and significant absorption bands at 600 nm, as well as at 1535 nm, were observed. The nonlinear behavior of the received material was experimentally demonstrated. Due to the short relaxation time of investigated ceramics, we considered them as fast saturable absorbers. The influence of the postsintering annealing process was examined. The values of saturation intensities of YAG ceramics with different concentrations of cobalt were estimated by fitting experimental data to the theoretical model for fast saturable absorbers.
Engaging Young Children and Families in Gallery Education at Tate Liverpool
Authors: Wright Denise
Published: November 2020

Beyond Words: Engaging Young Children and Families in Gallery Education at Tate Liverpool, is a three‐year ethnographic case study that explores what happens when preschool children, parents and nursery practitioners from a Sure Start Children’s Centre, visit Tate to participate in an extended series of gallery visits and workshops with artists. This article explores the potential value and tensions of those creative and cultural experiences, particularly for young children and families, by critically examining different perspectives, discourses and possible constructs of effective creative engagement. This research contributes to the debate on ways of engaging children and families from marginalised communities in cultural visits and creative practices by opening up existing discussions on poverty, matters of inclusion, negative stereotypes and dominant educational discourses. Insights from parents are included and their feelings are related to the ‘symbolic violence’ often felt by parents and children throughout their education from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. This research explores how Tate Liverpool developed relationships with a diverse family audience, through developing relationships with children and adults over repeated visits, as an important way for offering continuity and a sense of belonging, particularly for families who may not traditionally visit art galleries. In doing so, it makes a case for galleries to be considered as democratic, inclusive and rhizomatic learning environments, where artist educators act as ‘dreamkeepers’. Dreamkeepers can offer the space for extra emotional, social and intellectual support needed for healing from educational injury and for restarting a learning journey.
Influence of habitat availability and fire disturbance on a northern range boundary
Authors: Rayfield Bronwyn , Paul Véronique , Tremblay Francine , Fortin Marie‐Josée , Hély Christelle , Bergeron Yves
Published: November 2020

Aim

Non‐climatic constraints on species northern range boundaries are often overlooked in attempts to predict climate‐induced range shifts. Here, we examined the effects of habitat availability and fire disturbance on the distribution of a species that transitions from being common to being found only in marginal populations at the northern boundary of its range.

Location

North‐western Quebec, Canada (46–51° N and 74–79° W).

Taxon : Eastern white cedar (Thuja occidentalisL.)

Methods

We used forest inventory data (n = 4,987) to characterize white‐cedar habitat based on edaphic and topographic conditions at sampled sites along a 600‐km latitudinal gradient. Non‐metric multidimensional scaling was used to assess habitat similarity of sites in the south, where white‐cedar stands are abundant, and sites in the north, where white‐cedar stands are rare. We constructed ensemble white cedar distribution models based on habitat variables in the south and compared ensemble forecast projections of white cedar in the north with observed occurrences to determine if habitat availability was limiting. We independently estimated the age of white‐cedar stands and adjacent stands without white cedar along the gradient. ANOVA was performed to test the age difference between white‐cedar and adjacent stands to determine whether the location of white‐cedar stands was influenced by disturbance, primarily stand‐replacing fire.

Results

Habitat availability was not limiting the distribution of eastern white cedar at its northern range boundary. White cedar did not occupy most sites with suitable habitat in the north, suggesting that other factors prevent white cedar from establishing more stands northward. White‐cedar stands were older than adjacent stands without white cedar all along the gradient, but the difference was more pronounced in the north. This suggests that white‐cedar stands in the north are restricted to undisturbed areas.

Main conclusions

Fire disturbance, more than habitat availability, limits the distribution of white cedar at its northern range boundary. Projections of white cedar distribution under climate change that ignore fire could overestimate the ability of warming temperatures to extend its northern range limit.
Cross‐border Healthcare in the EU: Welfare Burden or Market Opportunity? Evidence from the Spanish Experience
Authors: Finotelli Claudia
Published: November 2020

EU citizens' access to social rights has become a contentious issue in the EU in the past decade. This article aims to reverse the North–South perspective on intra‐EU mobility and welfare by shifting the research emphasis from the labour‐oriented mobility of young Southern Europeans in Northern Europe to the non‐labour‐motivated mobility of Northern EU citizens in Southern Europe. To do so, this analysis addresses the provision of healthcare assistance regulated by European legislation for European retirees and patients in Spain. The analysis shows that retirement migration has been perceived as a state burden, yet patients' mobility has tended to be seen by the Spanish government as a market opportunity. However, the study also indicates that efforts to deal with these two different types of mobility are embedded in structural constraints that go beyond governments' intentions, which adds a new complexity to the limits of freedom of movement and EU citizenship.
FGF23 and Cause‐Specific Mortality in Community‐Living Individuals—The Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study
Authors: Sharma Shilpa , Katz Ronit , Dubin Ruth F. , Drew David A. , Gutierrez Orlando M. , Shlipak Michael G. , Sarnak Mark J. , Ix Joachim H.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)‐23 is a key regulator of mineral metabolism and has been linked with left ventricular hypertrophy in animal models. Most existing epidemiologic studies evaluated a C‐terminal FGF23 assay which measures both the intact (active) hormone and inactive fragments. The relationship of intact FGF23 with cause‐specific mortality is unknown.

Design

Prospective analyses of data from Health, Aging, & Body Composition (HABC) study.

Setting

Community‐living adults aged 70 to 79 years with longitudinal follow up.
Perspective of fibre‐optical microendoscopy with microlenses
Authors: Wang Baokai , Zhang Qiming , Chen Xi , Luan Haitao , Gu Min
Published: November 2020

Fibre‐optical microendoscopy is based on fibre‐optical confocal scanning microscopy, where optical fibres are introduced for delivery of the source and collection of the signal. Fibre‐optical microendoscopy has led to innovations in imaging of freely moving animals, long‐term imaging, minimally invasive diagnostics, and microsurgery. The lens system in fibre‐optical microendoscopy is significant because of the imaging resolution and miniaturisation possibility. State‐of‐the‐art fibre‐optical microendoscopy based on various types of lens systems is introduced and compared. The lens system contains an objective lens, a gradient index microlens, and other novel lens systems fabricated by electric arc discharge or two‐photon lithography.
A new phytocosmetic preparation from Thymus vulgaris stimulates adipogenesis and controls skin aging process: In vitro studies and topical effects in a double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Caverzan Jeanifer , Mussi Lilian , Sufi Bianca , Padovani Giovana , Nazato Lucas , Camargo Flavio B. , Magalhães Wagner V. , Di Stasi Luiz C.
Published: November 2020

Background

The use of the injectable products for soft tissue augmentation and treatment of skin aging is an uncomfortable, invasive and related to several complications, and chronic reactions, mainly after long‐term application. Efforts to develop new topically active anti‐aging products with fewer adverse effects are a huge challenge that should be faced.

Aims

We evaluated the anti‐aging effects of a phytocosmetic preparation containing Thymus vulgaris associated with lecithin (ThymLec) on the facial wrinkles, expression lines, and face oval remodeling using a double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial and in vitro cell culture assays.

Methods

A clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of ThymLec 2% on the area, length, and depth of the perioral and crow's feet wrinkles, nasolabial and smile lines, as well as face oval remodeling in female volunteers using a sophisticated Bio3D Structured‐light Scanner. In the in vitro studies using 3T3‐L1 mouse embryonic fibroblasts, adiponectin was measured by immunoenzymatic assay, adipogenesis by the AdipoRed reagent method, and the PPAR‐γ expression by RT‐PCR analysis.

Results

Topical treatment with ThymLec 2% reduced facial wrinkles and expression lines promoting a face oval remodeling. In the in vitro studies, ThymLec upregulated the PPAR‐γ expression increasing adiponectin production and stimulating the adipogenesis process.

Conclusions

The phytocosmetic preparation containing Thymus vulgaris and lecithin is an innovative and safe topical anti‐aging product promoting fat tissue augmentation by adipogenesis stimulation via the upregulation of PPAR‐γ expression and adiponectin production.