bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing the copper sensitivity of microorganisms by restricting iron supply, a strategy for bio‐management practices
Authors: Steunou Anne Soisig , Bourbon Marie‐Line , Babot Marion , Durand Anne , Liotenberg Sylviane , Yamaichi Yoshiharu , Ouchane Soufian
Published: June 2020

Pollution by copper (Cu2+) extensively used as antimicrobial in agriculture and farming represents a threat to the environment and human health. Finding ways to make microorganisms sensitive to lower metal concentrations could help decreasing the use of Cu2+ in agriculture. In this respect, we showed that limiting iron (Fe) uptake makes bacteria much more susceptible to Cu2+ or Cd2+ poisoning. Using efflux mutants of the purple bacterium Rubrivivax gelatinosus, we showed that Cu+ and Cd2+ resistance relies on the expression of the Fur‐regulated FbpABC and Ftr iron transporters. To support this conclusion, inactivation of these Fe‐importers in the Cu+ or Cd2+‐ATPase efflux mutants gave rise to hypersensitivity towards these ions. Moreover, in metal overloaded cells the expression of FbpA, the periplasmic iron‐binding component of the ferric ion transport FbpABC system was induced, suggesting that cells perceived an ‘iron‐starvation’ situation and responded to it by inducing Fe‐importers. In this context, the Fe‐Sod activity increased in response to Fe homoeostasis dysregulation. Similar results were obtained for Vibrio cholerae and Escherichia coli, suggesting that perturbation of Fe‐homoeostasis by metal excess appeared as an adaptive response commonly used by a variety of bacteria. The presented data support a model in which metal excess induces Fe‐uptake to support [4Fe‐4S] synthesis and thereby induce ROS detoxification system.
Mybl2 rejuvenates heart explant‐derived cells from aged donors after myocardial infarction
Authors: Rafatian Ghazaleh , Kamkar Maryam , Parent Sandrine , Michie Connor , Risha Yousef , Molgat André S. D. , Seymour Richard , Suuronen Erik J. , Davis Darryl R.
Published: June 2020

While cell therapy is emerging as a promising option for patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM), the influence of advanced donor age and a history of ischemic injury on the reparative performance of these cells are not well defined. As such, intrinsic changes that result from advanced donor age and ischemia are explored in hopes of identifying a molecular candidate capable of restoring the lost reparative potency of heart explant‐derived cells (EDCs) used in cell therapy. EDCs were cultured from myocardial biopsies obtained from young or old mice 4 weeks after randomization to experimental myocardial infarction or no intervention. Advanced donor age reduces cell yield while increasing cell senescence and the secretion of senescence‐associated cytokines. A history of ischemic injury magnifies these effects as cells are more senescent and have lower antioxidant reserves. Consistent with these effects, intramyocardial injection of EDCs from aged ischemic donors provided less cell‐mediated cardiac repair. A transcriptome comparison of ICM EDCs shows aging modifies many of the pathways responsible for effective cell cycle control and DNA damage/repair. Over‐expression of the barely explored antisenescent transcription factor, Mybl2, in EDCs from aged ICM donors reduces cell senescence while conferring salutary effects on antioxidant activity and paracrine production. In vivo, we observed an increase in cell retention and vasculogenesis after treatment with Mybl2‐over‐expressing EDCs which improved heart function in infarcted recipient hearts. In conclusion, Mybl2 over‐expression rejuvenates senescent EDCs sourced from aged ICM donors to confer cell‐mediated effects comparable to cells from young nonischemic donors.
Improved Drying and Storage Practices that Reduce Aflatoxins in Stored Maize: Experimental Evidence from Smallholders in Senegal
Authors: Bauchet Jonathan , Prieto Stacy , Ricker‐Gilbert Jacob
Published: June 2020

Proper post‐harvest treatment of crops is key to limiting contamination by aflatoxins, potent carcinogens, but little is known about constraints to adoption of best post‐harvest practices among smallholder farmers in developing countries. We use a randomized controlled trial with 2,000 maize producers in Senegal to test whether low awareness and/or lack of drying and storage technologies are barriers to storing safe maize. A novel feature of our intervention is that we offered both drying and storage technologies to farmers and evaluated their combined impact. We found that only hermetic (airtight) storage bags caused a statistically significant reduction in total aflatoxin levels after 3–4 months of storage, reducing the likelihood that maize had total aflatoxin levels above safe‐to‐eat thresholds by 30%. Our results provide practical guidance to lower aflatoxins in staple crops and suggest that strategies to reduce aflatoxins should address issues from harvest to storage in a comprehensive manner.
Systematic review suggests a relationship between moderate to late preterm birth and early childhood caries
Authors: Twetman Svante , Boustedt Katarina , Roswall Josefine , Dahlgren Jovanna
Published: June 2020

Aim

The aim was to examine the association between moderate to late preterm birth and the prevalence of early childhood caries.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Trials Register databases up to February 28, 2020. Two independent reviewers screened the papers for relevance, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to pool the prevalence of early childhood caries by gestational age.

Results

The authors identified 14 studies covering 210,691 children. They were published from 2007‐2020 and included birth cohorts, cross‐sectional, register‐based and case‐control studies. We assessed eight of them as having low or moderate risk of bias. The median caries prevalence was 48.8% among children born moderate to late preterm compared to 20.5% for those born full term. The pooled overall odds ratio was 1.48 (95% confidence interval 1.16‐1.89; P < .001). The certainty of this finding was low due to heterogeneity and inconsistencies across the studies.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta‐analysis displayed a significantly higher prevalence of early childhood caries in children born moderate to late preterm compared to full term children. The finding suggests that the gestational age should be collected as a risk factor in the paediatric dental records.
Spinal heat shock protein 27 participates in PDGFRβ‐mediated morphine tolerance through PI3K/Akt and p38 MAPK signalling pathways
Authors: Li Zheng , Peng Xiaoling , Jia Xiaoqian , Su Peng , Liu Daiqiang , Tu Ye , Xu Qiaoqiao , Gao Feng
Published: June 2020

Background and Purpose

The development of antinociceptive morphine tolerance is a clinically intractable problem. Earlier work has demonstrated the pivotal roles of PDGF and its receptor PDGFRβ in morphine tolerance. Here, we have investigated the role of spinal heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) in morphine tolerance and its relationship with PDGFRβ activation.

Experimental Approach

Rats were treated with morphine for 9 days, and its anti‐nociceptive effect against thermal pain was evaluated by a tail‐flick latency test. Western blot, real‐time PCR, immunofluorescent staining, and various antagonists, agonists, and siRNA lentiviral vectors elucidated the roles of HSP27, PDGFRβ, and related signalling pathways in morphine tolerance.

Key Results

Chronic morphine administration increased expression and phosphorylation of HSP27 in the spinal cord. Down‐regulating HSP27 attenuated the development of morphine tolerance. PDGFRβ antagonism inhibited HSP27 activation and attenuated and reversed morphine tolerance. PDGFRβ induction increased HSP27 expression and activation and partly decreased morphine analgesia. PDGFRβ inhibition reduced Akt and p38 MAPK activity in morphine tolerance. PI3K and p38 inhibitors reversed morphine tolerance and suppressed morphine‐induced HSP27 phosphorylation.

Conclusion and Implications

This study demonstrated for the first time that spinal HSP27 participates in PDGFRβ‐mediated morphine tolerance via the PI3K/Akt and p38 MAPK signalling pathways. These findings suggest a potential clinical strategy for prolonging the antinociceptive effects of opioids during long‐term pain control.
Autonomy and distance from the centre as drivers of innovation in the public sector: Testing a positioning‐based hypothesis
Authors: Bernier Luc , Deschamps Carl
Published: June 2020

A generally accepted assumption is that innovation in the public sector is easier when managers have more autonomy. Previous research has revealed a paradox: the most innovative organizations are autonomous organizations, but also central agencies, more so than ministries. What has not been documented so far in Canada is the quality and nature or type of innovation by location. We developed a database of applications for IPAC's innovative management award with 1712 innovations in federal and provincial governments over the past 29 years. Using statistical analysis that takes into account the proximity of applicant organizations to political power, we provide a picture of innovation and institutional position in the public sector in Canada.
Patient with nasal congestion, purulent discharge, facial pain and hyposmia
Authors: Martínez‐Girón Rafael , Martínez‐Torre Cristina , Martínez‐Torre Santiago
Published: June 2020

Nasal irrigation cytology as a means of diagnosing the cause of rhinosinusitis in a patient with persistent headache, facial pain and nasal congestion.
Endoscopic treatment of hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic strictures using fully‐covered metal stents
Authors: Sato Tatsuya , Kogure Hirofumi , Nakai Yousuke , Kanai Sachiko , Ishigaki Kazunaga , Hakuta Ryunosuke , Saito Kei , Saito Tomotaka , Takahara Naminatsu , Hamada Tsuyoshi , Mizuno Suguru , Yamada Atsuo , Isayama Hiroyuki , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: June 2020

Objectives

With the emergence of the double‐balloon endoscope (DBE), hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic strictures (HJASs) are increasingly managed endoscopically. However, balloon dilation and/or plastic stent placement may be associated with low stricture resolution rates and long treatment duration. We utilized a fully‐covered metal stent (FCSEMS), which was designed for temporary placement for benign biliary strictures, and assessed its feasibility for patients with HJASs.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 20 patients who underwent DBE‐assisted FCSEMS placement for HJASs between June 2017 and March 2019. The FCSEMS was removed endoscopically at three months of stent placement. The outcomes investigated were the stricture resolution at the time of FCSEMS removal, the stricture recurrence, and adverse events.

Results

Among 20 patients treated, stricture resolution was achieved in 17 patients (85.0%) at three months of stent placement. The FCSEMS was removed endoscopically without any technical difficulties in all cases except for two with asymptomatic stent migration due to stricture resolution. During a median follow‐up period of 11.9 months (interquartile range, 7.5–18.0 months), an HJAS recurred in one patient (5.9%). For two patients without stricture resolution and one patient with recurrent stricture, another FCSEMS placement for 77, 84, and 186 days resolved the stricture. The overall stricture resolution rate was 95.0%. In one patient with FCSEMS‐induced de novo stricture, long‐term plastic stent placement was required. Procedure‐related adverse events included mild cholangitis in two patients and mild pancreatitis in one patient.

Conclusions

Endoscopic treatment using a FCSEMS via DB‐ERCP was a feasible and effective treatment option for a HJAS.
Embracing the Risk of Teaching Literature
Authors: Lindell Ingrid
Published: June 2020

Contemporary Western educational systems have been described as a landscape of control and assessment meant to make education, in Gert J. J. Biesta's words, “strong, secure, and predictable,” and ultimately “risk‐free.” Against this desire for strength, Biesta argues for weakness, focusing on the risks of the unpredictable and the unknown as primary features of an education worthy of the name. In this article, Ingrid Lindell promotes this weaker attitude specifically in the context of teaching literature. Guiding her analysis is the question, How might we create a practical approach to make the unmeasurable more accessible and assessible? In applying some of Biesta's concepts to the practical considerations of teaching literature and assessing student outcomes, Lindell identifies a tension that arises when demands for educational transparency and measurable outcomes are imposed on teachers of literature: in literary education, it is very often not desirable to know outcomes in advance. Against this background, Lindell introduces the methodological idea of teaching in the gap, an attempt to apply some of Biesta's concepts and ideas in the literature classroom in order to explore how we might embrace and teach “The Risk.” Lindell aims to strengthen the case for reading and assessing literature as a metacognitive activity rather than submitting to a ratio‐based approach to literary education that focuses narrowly on reproductive knowledge that is measurable.
Mobile brain/body Imaging in dance: A dynamic transdisciplinary field for applied research
Authors: Barnstaple Rebecca , Protzak Janna , DeSouza Joseph F.X. , Gramann Klaus
Published: June 2020

Neuroscience of dance is an emerging field with important applications related to health and well‐being, as dance has shown potential to foster adaptive neuroplasticity and is increasingly popular as a therapeutic activity or adjunct therapy for people living with conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. However, the multimodal nature of dance presents challenges to researchers aiming to identify mechanisms involved when dance is used to combat neurodegeneration or support healthy ageing. Requiring simultaneous engagement of motor and cognitive domains, dancing includes coordination of systems involved in timing, memory and spatial learning. Studies on dance to this point rely primarily on assessments of brain dynamics and structure through pre/post‐tests or studies on expertise, as traditional brain imaging modalities restrict participant movement to avoid movement‐related artefacts. In this paper, we describe the process of designing and implementing a study that uses mobile brain/body imaging (MoBI) to investigate real‐time changes in brain dynamics and behaviour during the process of learning and performing a novel dance choreography. We show the potential for new insights to emerge from the coordinated collection of movement and brain‐based data, and the implications of these in an emerging field whose medium is motion.
There is no place like home: Larval habitat type and size affect risk‐taking behaviour in fire salamander larvae (Salamandra salamandra)
Authors: Oswald Pia , Tunnat Benjamin A. , Hahn Luca G. , Caspers Barbara A.
Published: June 2020

Individual life histories are strongly influenced by early environmental conditions and experiences. They shape morphology as well as behaviour and can promote adaptive divergence and phenotypic plasticity with regard to different habitat types. The fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) in the Kottenforst forest in Bonn, Germany, exhibits two genetically distinct ecotypes occurring in two larval habitats, either ponds or streams. In this study, we investigated whether both ecotypes differ in risk‐taking behaviour, measured as the behavioural response during a shelter‐emergence test and a shelter‐seeking test, and whether larval habitat type and size impact these behaviours. Our results revealed an influence of size as well as habitat type. Larger larvae of both habitats appear to be more risk‐prone, as they spent more time outside the starting shelter in the shelter‐emergence test. Irrespective of size, pond larvae sought shelter more often in the shelter‐seeking test and are thus considered to be less risk‐prone. These results indicate that larvae conform to a given niche by adjusting their behaviour. Future studies are needed to disentangle the role of genetic adaptation or phenotypic plasticity and to investigate long‐term consequences of the larval habitat for the adult phenotype. Thereby, efforts should be made to create a concise set of multiple tests assessing behavioural patterns.
Objectively measured movement asymmetry in yearling Standardbred trotters
Authors: Kallerud Anne S. , Fjordbakk Cathrine T. , Hendrickson Eli H. S. , Persson‐Sjodin Emma , Hammarberg Marie , Rhodin Marie , Hernlund Elin
Published: June 2020

Background

Lameness evaluation of Standardbred trotters can be challenging due to discrepancies in observed movement asymmetry between in‐hand and track exercise, and between different trotting speeds. There are few studies on objective measurement of movement in Standardbreds, and little knowledge regarding biological variation and clinical significance of measured movement asymmetry in this breed.

Objectives

To quantify the prevalence and magnitude of objectively measured movement asymmetry in young Standardbred trotters, and identify associations with trainer, sex, height, track type and in‐hand measurement prior to or after track trials.

Study design

Cross‐sectional, observational study.

Methods

A total of 114 Standardbred yearlings were evaluated with a wireless inertial sensor system during trot in‐hand and when driven on a track. After exclusions relating to lameness or technical difficulties, 103 horses were included in the study; 77 were evaluated in‐hand and on the track, 24 only in‐hand and 2 only on the track.

Results

Front and/or hindlimb parameters were above asymmetry thresholds previously established for other breeds during in‐hand trials for 94 (93%) horses and during track trials for 74 (94%) horses. Most horses showed mild asymmetry. A minority of horses (20%) switched side of the asymmetry for one or more parameters between in‐hand and track trials. Mixed model analyses revealed no significant effects of trial mode (in‐hand or track trial, in‐hand trial pre‐ or post‐track trial, straight or oval track), trainer or horse height. Females had a significant but small reduction in asymmetry in one front limb parameter (HDmax) compared with males (1.7 mm, 95% CI 0.18‐3.28, P = .03).

Main limitations

High data variability, reflected in large trial standard deviations, relating mainly to a lack of horse compliance.

Conclusions

A high proportion of Standardbred yearlings showed movement asymmetries. There was no group‐level effect between in‐hand and track trials, however, considerable individual variation was observed.
Better to keep in touch: investigating inter‐organelle cross‐talk
Authors: Rossini Michela , Pizzo Paola , Filadi Riccardo
Published: June 2020

The strategic importance for cellular organelles of being in contact with each other, exchanging messenger molecules, is nowadays well established. Different inter‐organelle cross‐talk pathways finely regulate multiple physiological cellular mechanisms, and their dysregulation has been found to underlie different pathological conditions. In the last years, a great effort has been made to study such organelle interactions, to understand their functional roles within the cell and the molecules involved in their formation and/or modulation. In this contribution, some examples of organelle cross‐talk and their contributions in regulating physiological processes are presented. Moreover, the pro and cons of the available methods for a proper, reliable investigation of membrane contact sites are described.
Evaluating the terrestrial carbon dioxide removal potential of improved forest management and accelerated forest conversion in Norway
Authors: Bright Ryan M. , Allen Micky , Antón‐Fernández Clara , Belbo Helmer , Dalsgaard Lise , Eisner Stephanie , Granhus Aksel , Kjønaas Olaug J. , Søgaard Gunnhild , Astrup Rasmus
Published: June 2020

As a carbon dioxide removal measure, the Norwegian government is currently considering a policy of large‐scale planting of spruce (Picea abies (L) H. Karst) on lands in various states of natural transition to a forest dominated by deciduous broadleaved tree species. Given the aspiration to bring emissions on balance with removals in the latter half of the 21st century in effort to limit the global mean temperature rise to “well below” 2°C, the effectiveness of such a policy is unclear given relatively low spruce growth rates in the region. Further convoluting the picture is the magnitude and relevance of surface albedo changes linked to such projects, which typically counteract the benefits of an enhanced forest CO2 sink in high‐latitude regions. Here, we carry out a rigorous empirically based assessment of the terrestrial carbon dioxide removal (tCDR) potential of large‐scale spruce planting in Norway, taking into account transient developments in both terrestrial carbon sinks and surface albedo over the 21st century and beyond. We find that surface albedo changes would likely play a negligible role in counteracting tCDR, yet given low forest growth rates in the region, notable tCDR benefits from such projects would not be realized until the second half of the 21st century, with maximum benefits occurring even later around 2150. We estimate Norway's total accumulated tCDR potential at 2100 and 2150 (including surface albedo changes) to be 447 (±240) and 852 (±295) Mt CO2‐eq. at mean net present values of US$ 12 (±3) and US$ 13 (±2) per ton CDR, respectively. For perspective, the accumulated tCDR potential at 2100 represents around 8 years of Norway's total current annual production‐based (i.e., territorial) CO2‐eq. emissions.
Handling Heterogeneity in Assessing Residential Satisfaction
Authors: Borgoni Riccardo , Michelangeli Alessandra , Pirola Federica
Published: June 2020

Residential satisfaction depends on housing and neighborhood conditions in addition to housing cost affordability. To determine the relative importance of these factors, their average effect is usually estimated using sample data, eventually split in subsamples to represent different levels of socioeconomic status. A concern about the division of households into groups is that, as groups are modified or group assignments change, results of quantitative analysis applied to such data can dramatically change. This article follows a subjective well‐being approach to study residential satisfaction. We propose a novel empirical design to estimate how the effect of drivers of residential satisfaction change across household income distribution. We apply our empirical design to investigate residential satisfaction in 23 European countries using 2012 EU‐SILC module on housing conditions. Our results show that: (i) in Europe, residential satisfaction is driven first by housing‐specific characteristics, followed by neighborhood conditions and individual/household characteristics; (ii) the probability to be satisfied or very satisfied strongly differs across countries, everything else being equal; (iii) residents with different socioeconomic status attach importance to particular factors affecting residential satisfaction.
Information led trade: The role of non‐marketed complementaries in preferences
Authors: Santra Sattwik
Published: June 2020

Recent advances in the theoretical literature on international trade have shown considerable interest in the demand side of the general equilibrium. This paper supplements the literature by highlighting the role of non‐marketed complementaries. Individuals derive utility by consuming two marketed commodities and a non‐marketed commodity. The non‐marketed commodity affects the relative demands of the marketed commodities by acting as complement to one of the marketed commodities. Considering “information” as an exemplar of the non‐marketed commodity, this paper derives a number of insightful results that relate the volume and pattern of trade to the stock and flow of information.
Too salty for you? Changes of diet in the laughing gull nestlings during the growing period
Authors: González‐Medina Erick , Castillo‐Guerrero José Alfredo , Masero José A. , Fernández Guillermo
Published: June 2020

In many seabird and waterbird species, salinity can impose physiological stress on recently hatched chicks because they have a limited capacity to excrete salt loads. In response, parents can select low‐salt food for their nestlings in the first stage of their growth. We determined the growth‐related variation in the diet of laughing gull Leucophaeus atricilla nestlings by using stable isotope analysis of feathers. Isotopic measurement of hatchling down reflects the mother's diet before laying eggs. At the same time, the primary feather tip indicates the food intake during the initiation of feather growth (one week of age), and the primary feather base indicates the food provided by parents during the period immediately before fledging. δ15N and δ13C values among the feather types showed a spatiotemporal shift in the nestlings’ diet. Younger chicks consumed more terrestrial prey sources (weevil beetles Sphenophorus sp.; ~51%) than chicks at fledging (~2%). However, fledging chicks and females before egg‐laying consumed mostly marine prey sources (Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei and anchovy Anchoa sp.; > 90%). The base and primary tip portions had similar δ15N values, but both sections were less enriched than the hatchling down. This change was diet‐related, as the nestlings showed a lower percentage of anchovy consumption (13.3–14.7%) compared to females before egg‐laying (30.4%). Younger chicks had a different spatial niche than fledglings and females before egg‐laying, indicating a diet shift through the chick growth period. Assuming that the availability of food in the terrestrial or marine foraging areas did not vary through the nestlings’ growth period (five weeks), our findings support food resource selectivity by parents for their offspring during the first days of life, to reduce the physiological stress caused by high salt loads.
Dissecting the interaction between COVID‐19 and diabetes mellitus
Authors: Chee Ying Jie , Tan Seng Kiong , Yeoh Ester
Published: June 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a global pandemic that is caused by a novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2. Data from several countries have shown higher morbidity and mortality among individuals with chronic metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus. In this review, we explore the contributing factors for poorer prognosis in these individuals. As a significant proportion of patients with COVID‐19 also have diabetes mellitus, this adds another layer of complexity to their management. We explore potential interactions between antidiabetic medications and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors with COVID‐19. Suggested recommendations for the use of antidiabetic medications for COVID‐19 patients with diabetes mellitus are provided. We also review pertinent clinical considerations in the management of diabetic ketoacidosis in COVID‐19 patients. In addition, we aim to increase clinicians’ awareness of the metabolic effects of promising drug therapies for COVID‐19. Finally, we highlight the importance of timely vaccinations for patients with diabetes mellitus.
The combined effect of body size and temperature on oxygen consumption rates and the size‐dependency of preferred temperature in European perch Perca fluviatilis
Authors: Christensen Emil A. F. , Svendsen Morten B. S. , Steffensen John F.
Published: June 2020

The present study determined the effect of body mass and acclimation temperature (15–28°C) on oxygen consumption rate (ṀO2) and the size dependency of preferred temperature in European perch Perca fluviatilis. Standard metabolic rate (SMR) scaled allometrically with body mass by an exponent of 0.86, and temperature influenced SMR with a Q10 of 1.9 regardless of size. Maximum metabolic rate (MMR) and aerobic scope (MMR‐SMR) scaled allometrically with body mass by exponents of 0.75–0.88. The mass scaling exponents of MMR and aerobic scope changed with temperature and were lowest at the highest temperature. Consequently, the optimal temperature for aerobic scope decreased with increasing body mass. Notably, fish <40 g did not show a decrease aerobic scope with increasing temperature. Factorial aerobic scope (MMR × SMR−1) generally decreased with increasing temperatures, was unaffected by size at the lower temperatures, and scaled negatively with body mass at the highest temperature. Similar to the optimal temperature for aerobic scope, preferred temperature declined with increasing body mass, unaffectedly by acclimation temperature. The present study indicates a limitation in the capacity for oxygen uptake in larger fish at high temperatures. A constraint in oxygen uptake at high temperature may restrict the growth of larger fish with environmental warming, at least if food availability is not limited. Furthermore, behavioural thermoregulation may be contributing to regional changes in the size distribution of fish in the wild caused by global warming as larger individuals will prefer colder water at higher latitudes and at larger depths than smaller conspecifics with increasing environmental temperatures.
Circular value creation architectures: Make, ally, buy, or laissez‐faire
Authors: Hansen Erik G. , Revellio Ferdinand
Published: June 2020

Slowing and closing product and related material loops in a circular economy (CE) requires circular service operations such as take‐back, repair, and recycling. However, it remains open whether these are coordinated by OEMs, retailers, or third‐party loop operators (e.g., refurbishers). Literature rooted in the classic make‐or‐buy concept proposes four generic coordination mechanisms and related value creation architectures: vertical integration, network, outsourcing, or doing nothing (laissez‐faire). For each of these existing architectures, we conducted an embedded case study in the domain of smartphones with the aim to better understand how central coordinators align with actors in the value chain to offer voluntary circular service operations. Based on the above coordination mechanisms, our central contribution is the development of a typology of circular value creation architectures (CVCAs) and its elaboration regarding circular coordination, loop configuration, and ambition levels. We find that firms following slowing strategies (i.e., repair, reuse, and remanufacturing) pursue higher degrees of vertical integration than those following closing strategies (i.e., recycling) because of the specificity of the assets involved and their greater strategic relevance. The typology also shows that higher degrees of vertical integration enable higher degrees of loop closure (i.e., from open to closed loops) and better feedbacks into product design. Furthermore, we differentiate the understanding on third‐party actors by distinguishing between independent and autonomous loop operators. Overall, we strengthen the actor perspective in product circularity literature by clarifying the actor set, their interrelationships, and how they form value creation architectures.
Editorial Commentary: Addressing Confusion in the Diffusion of Archival Data Research
Authors: Miller Jason , Davis‐Sramek Beth , Fugate Brian S. , Pagell Mark , Flynn Barbara B.
Published: June 2020

Supply chain management researchers are increasingly using archival data to push boundaries of existing knowledge. Archival data provide opportunities to address new research questions and offer fresh perspectives on old questions. This editorial seeks to establish a common ground regarding research design, measurement validity, and endogeneity to help both authors and reviewers fully utilize archival data to advance supply chain management knowledge.
Acceptance of virtual agents in a homecare context: Evaluation of excessive daytime sleepiness in apneic patients during interventions by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) providers
Authors: Dupuy Lucile , Micoulaud‐Franchi Jean‐Arthur , Philip Pierre
Published: June 2020

Sleep apnea syndrome treatment relies primarily on continuous positive airway pressure, which requires a homecare follow‐up. Excessive daytime sleepiness is a key symptom to be measured during follow‐up, and there is a need for more easy‐to‐administer, ecological and engaging tools to assess it. Virtual agents have shown their effectiveness in performing clinical evaluation in a medical environment. A virtual agent assessing excessive daytime sleepiness via the Epworth Sleepiness Scale has been tested at home by 102 patients treated by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and their homecare providers. Acceptance and trustworthiness of the agent, as well as the influence of demographics and clinical characteristics of patients, were investigated. Results showed that both patients and homecare providers reported a positive attitude towards the virtual agent, which was found to be usable, satisfactory, credible and benevolent. Homecare providers reported that it was not a burden to their working routine. Positive regression coefficients were found between patients' and homecare providers' attitudes towards the virtual agent. We found no influence of patients' demographics and clinical characteristics on their acceptance of the virtual agent. This shows that virtual agents are well accepted by patients and homecare providers, independently of their demographics and clinical characteristics. Positive regression coefficients observed between patients' and homecare providers' perceptions of the agent indicate that the opinions of both influence acceptance of the virtual agent in a homecare context. Virtual agents are new innovative digital solutions to be considered in homecare follow‐up of apneic patients treated by CPAP.
Extending sleep to confirm insufficient sleep syndrome is challenging
Authors: Baumann‐Vogel Heide , Hoff Sophia , Valko Philipp O. , Poryazova Rositsa , Werth Esther , Baumann Christian R.
Published: June 2020

Insufficient sleep syndrome (ISS) is prevalent, but poorly studied. This descriptive study was performed to determine its diagnostic challenges and clinical characteristics in a large (n = 3,461) retrospective sample from a single sleep laboratory. Based on actigraphy, polysomnography and multiple sleep latency tests, we diagnosed “suspected insufficient sleep syndrome” in patients with chronic sleepiness, short time in bed, longer sleep duration during weekends or vacation, and without evidence of other causes of sleepiness. For the diagnosis of “definite insufficient sleep syndrome”, we additionally required objectively confirmed resolution of sleepiness with actigraphy‐documented extension of time in bed. We diagnosed “suspected insufficient sleep syndrome” in 300 subjects. In 94 subjects, extension of sleep time with consecutive relief of sleepiness was attempted, but only 37 subjects succeeded, often despite being offered several attempts. “Definite insufficient sleep syndrome” was confirmed in 36 patients. In these subjects, mean time in bed after sleep extension was above 8 hr per night and 84 min longer than at baseline. Narcolepsy‐like findings were frequently observed before sleep extension, but no sleep onset rapid eye movement sleep on polysomnography. This study indicates that fulfilling the diagnostic criteria of ISS is challenging in clinical practice. It further corroborates the importance of actigraphy and polysomnography for correct diagnosis.
Spatial and temporal patterns of initial plant establishment in salt marsh communities
Authors: Lõhmus Kertu , Balke Thorsten , Kleyer Michael
Published: June 2020

Questions

How are dispersal processes, abiotic and biotic interactions determining the initial salt marsh plant community establishment and development when connectivity is different? We aim to answer this question by analysing the spatial and temporal patterns of plant establishment along an environmental gradient at two connectivity settings.

Location

Back‐barrier salt marsh and tidal flats of Spiekeroog, northwest Germany.

Methods

We established an experiment along a saltmarsh elevation gradient with bare sediment open for spontaneous colonisation on the natural salt marsh and on the experimental salt marsh islands built on the tidal flats approximately 500 m from the natural salt marsh for low connectivity. Plant establishment was identified from georeferenced photos at least monthly.

Results

Experimental islands as low‐connectivity plots had limited colonisation by annual halophytes that produced large number of small seeds. Number of individuals increased with higher connectivity at patches enclosed by salt marsh. Number of individuals was highest at the mid elevations whereas peak species richness was at the upper salt marsh. Temporal patterns of seedling emergence showed increasing plant numbers until the end of April followed by a gradual decline over the season at the pioneer and lower salt marsh zones. Upper elevations on the other hand had a stable number of low individual counts over time. Spatial clustering of plant individuals indicating possible facilitation was important at the initial stages of salt marsh development at pioneer and lower salt marsh elevation, but only early in the season.

Conclusions

Stochastic patterns of early salt marsh colonisation indicated that success of species colonisation was determined by seed properties, seed availability and environmental conditions mediated by elevation. We found indications that at the initial stages, further colonisation was supported by already colonised plants but shifted to avoidance later in the season.
“DANK” customs, bootlegs, and reworked pieces
Authors: Bain Andie
Published: June 2020

Three secondary works born from streetwear fashion have been identified, and it is the objective of this paper to elucidate why trademark use in customs, bootlegs, and reworked pieces is deserving of legal protection. The paper travels through the oppression embedded in the fashion industry, highlighting its hostility towards street associations, which provides justifications for the reappropriation of a trademark. To do so, it explores the origins of streetwear and locates it within the industry. It recognises that these secondary works sit uneasily within trademark law and free expression principles as courts fluctuate with determining the legality of their trademark use. Additionally, the interrelationship between secondary works and their online distribution reveals an existential burden on platforms to police the use of trade marks without the sufficient tools to do so. This work adopts a sociolegal approach as the topic explores the letter of the law and its implications on society and its subcultures.
Bacterial antigen translocation and age as BMI‐independent contributing factors on systemic inflammation in NAFLD patients
Authors: Gómez‐Hurtado Isabel , Gallego‐Durán Rocío , Zapater Pedro , Ampuero Javier , Aller Rocío , Crespo Javier , Arias‐Loste Mayte , García‐Monzón Carmelo , Bellot Pablo , González‐Rodríguez Águeda , Juanola Oriol , Romero‐Gómez Manuel , Francés Rubén
Published: June 2020

Background & Aims

Low‐grade systemic inflammation is a crucial landmark in NAFLD favouring disease progression and comorbidities. We evaluated the input of circulating bacterial antigens on systemic markers of inflammation in NAFLD patients.

Patients & Methods

Multicenter cross‐sectional study including consecutive patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD. Demographic, metabolic and fibrosis‐related variables were collected. Circulating bacterial antigens were quantified in blood. Toll‐like receptor SNPs were genotyped. Serum cytokine levels were evaluated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell response to bacterial antigens was evaluated in vitro.

Results

Three hundred and fifteen patients from five Spanish hospitals were distributed by BMI. At least, one bacterial antigenic type was found in 66 patients with BMI < 30 (63.4%) and 163 patients with BMI > 30 (77.3%) (P = .014). HOMA‐IR was significantly higher in the presence of circulating antigens among patients with BMI < 30. NASH and significant fibrosis in non‐obese patients were more frequent in the presence of at least two circulating antigenic types. Allelic frequencies of TLR variants were similar to controls and did not affect clinical or laboratory parameters. Pro‐inflammatory cytokines were significantly increased in patients with bacterial antigens, regardless of BMI. TLR gene and protein expression levels were significantly increased in PBMCs from patients with bacterial antigens. Antigen concentrations independently influenced TNF‐α and IL‐6, in both BMI subgroups of patients. Age independently influenced TNF‐α and IL‐6 in non‐obese patients, and TNF‐α in obese patients.

Conclusion

Serum circulating bacterial antigens as well as age were BMI‐independent factors related to increased systemic inflammation in NAFLD and provides insight on the multifaceted sources of inflammation in these patients.
FAK inhibition protects condylar cartilage under excessive mechanical stress
Authors: Yanoshita Makoto , Hirose Naoto , Sumi Chikako , Takano Mami , Nishiyama Sayuri , Tsuboi Eri , Onishi Azusa , Yamauchi Yuka , Asakawa Yuki , Ryo Kunimatsu , Tanimoto Kotaro
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Excessive mechanical stress is assumed to be a major cause of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis (OA). +Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a cytoplasmic non‐receptor tyrosine kinase involved in a variety of signaling pathways. Little has been reported on the function of FAK in TMJ‐OA. In the present study, we investigated the effect of FAK inhibition on TMJ cartilage under excessive mechanical loading stress.

Materials and Methods

Articular cartilage explants were harvested from the TMJ of rats and subjected to mechanical loading in the presence of an FAK inhibitor in organ culture. The gene expression of inflammatory cytokines was examined after the application of mechanical loading with or without FAK inhibitor. Paraffin‐embedded sections of articular cartilage were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, safranin O and fast Green, toluidine blue, TUNEL staining, and immunohistochemical staining and was performed to investigate the protein expression of IL‐1β and MMP‐13.

Results

Treatment with FAK inhibitor reduced the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines and inhibited the degradation of articular cartilage, as determined histologically. FAK inhibitor treatment also suppressed the protein expression of IL‐1β and MMP‐13 in the hypertrophic zone, as determined immunohistologically.

Conclusion

Treatment with FAK inhibitor suppresses inflammation and protects condylar cartilage under excessive mechanical loading.
Tandem high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell rescue for stage M high‐risk neuroblastoma: Experience using melphalan/etoposide/carboplatin and busulfan/melphalan regimens
Authors: Kato Shota , Kubota Yasuo , Watanabe Kentaro , Hogetsu Keita , Arakawa Yuki , Koh Katsuyoshi , Takita Junko , Hiwatari Mitsuteru
Published: June 2020

The efficacy of tandem HDCT against high‐risk neuroblastoma has been reported; however, an optimal regimen remains to be established. In this paper, we report our experience using tandem HDCT comprising the MEC and BuMel regimens in patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma. We retrospectively analyzed four patients with stage M high‐risk neuroblastoma who received HDCT with MEC followed by BuMel combined with autologous stem cell rescue. Although none of their metastatic lesions had disappeared after induction chemotherapy, three patients showed a CR after tandem HDCT. Gastrointestinal mucosal injuries and renal dysfunction were observed as non‐hematologic adverse events of grade 3 or higher. Gastrointestinal mucosal injuries were observed in all four patients following the first HDCT and in one patient following the second HDCT and were treated with parenteral nutrition and analgesics. One patient experienced renal dysfunction during the first HDCT, which was alleviated by sufficient hydration and diuretics and resulted in the reduction of melphalan dosage for the second HDCT. SOS was not observed in any patient. The HDCT regimens examined in this study were observed to be feasible and did not result in any life‐threatening adverse events. Our findings indicate that tandem HDCT comprising MEC and BuMel is a potentially effective regimen for patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma, including for those who respond poorly to induction chemotherapy, although additional studies in a larger population should be conducted to verify any long‐term outcomes and toxicity.
Plant behaviour: an evolutionary response to the environment?
Authors: Kumar A. , Memo M. , Mastinu A.
Published: June 2020

Plants are not just passive living beings that exist in nature. They are complex and highly adaptable species that react sensitively to environmental forces/stimuli with movement, morphological changes and through the communication via volatile molecules. In a way, plants mimic some traits of animal and human behaviour; they compete for limited resources by gaining more area for more sunlight and spread their roots underground. Furthermore, in order to survive and thrive, they evolve and ‘learn’ to control various environmental stress factors in order to increase the yield of flowering, fertilization and germination processes. The concept of associating complex behaviour, such as intelligence, with plants is still a highly debatable topic among researchers worldwide. Recent studies have shown that plants are able to discriminate between positive and negative experiences and ‘learn’ from them. Some botanists have interpreted these behavioural data as a form of primitive cognitive processes. Others have evaluated these responses as biological automatisms of plants determined by adaptation to the environment and absence of intelligence. This review aims to explore adaptive behavioural aspects of various plant species distributed in different ecosystems by emphasizing their biological complexity and survival instincts.
Using reproductive potential to assess oyster population sustainability
Authors: Marshall Danielle A. , Moore Samuel C. , Sutor Malinda , La Peyre Jerome F. , La Peyre Megan K.
Published: June 2020

Ensuring that oysters remain sustainable in the face of significant coastal restoration activities, high local subsidence rates, and predicted sea‐level rise requires a deeper understanding of basic population demographics, including reproductive potential. We quantified fecundity (eggs ind−1) of oysters at high‐ and low‐salinity sites during a fall and spring spawn season. We assessed the relationships between oyster size, the relative proportion of females across size classes, and fecundity. Finally, we quantified reproductive potential (eggs m−2) of an engineered reef by connecting fecundity with annual oyster population demographic data as a means to assess population sustainability. The proportion of females generally increased with shell height, achieving a population with >50% females in Biloxi oysters >75 mm, and Grand Isle oysters >100 mm. Fecundity across both sites and seasons ranged from approximately 2,000 to >55 million eggs oyster−1. Mean fecundity generally increased with shell height, varying significantly by site, with Grand Isle (high salinity) oysters having greater fecundity than Biloxi (low salinity) oysters. Fecundity did not differ by season. Mean reproductive potential (eggs m−2) was driven by density and size distribution. Reefs with high densities and higher counts of market‐sized oysters had reproductive potentials 5× greater than those with low densities and low counts of juvenile oysters. With increasing changes in water quality from coastal management and climate, impacts on oyster reproduction may critically impact population sustainability. Reproductive potential provides critical data to assess individual reef ecosystem services, and to assess the potential for maintenance of local metapopulations.
National policies for paediatric universal BCG vaccination were associated with decreased mortality due to COVID‐19
Authors: Ebina‐Shibuya Risa , Horita Nobuyuki , Namkoong Ho , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: June 2020

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