bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and molecular characterization of the tubulin‐podophyllotoxin‐type lignans binding site on Giardia lamblia
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Gutiérrez Filiberto , Romo‐Mancillas Antonio , Puebla‐Pérez Ana María , Hernández‐Hernández José Manuel , Castillo‐Romero Araceli
Published: August 2019

There are several drugs for the treatment of giardiasis; however, there is a tendency for patients to abandon treatment because of drug‐related adverse effects, resulting in relapses, acquired resistance, and higher rates of treatment failure. Recently, we reported some podophyllotoxin‐type lignans from Bursera fagaroides var. fagaroides showing antigiardial activity. In the present work, we demonstrated that 5′‐desmethoxy‐peltatin‐A‐methylether (5‐DES), acetylpodophyllotoxin (APOD), and podophyllotoxin (POD) affect the distribution and staining pattern of microtubular structures on Giardia trophozoites. Virtual screening results revealed that the lignans act via binding in a hydrophobic pocket in the heterodimer interface of tubulin in Giardia. This study provides useful insight to understand the action mechanism of 5DES, APOD, and POD on Giardia lamblia. The optimization of these podophyllotoxin‐type lignans will lead to promising candidates for antigiardial drugs.
A critical appraisal of population viability analysis
Authors: Chaudhary Vratika , Oli Madan K.
Published: August 2019

Population viability analysis (PVA) is useful in management of imperiled species. Applications range from research design, threat assessment, and development of management frameworks. Given the importance of PVAs, it is essential that they be rigorous and adhere to widely accepted guidelines; however, the quality of published PVAs is rarely assessed. We evaluated the quality of 160 PVAs of 144 species of birds and mammals published in peer‐reviewed journals from 1990 to 2017. We hypothesized that PVA quality would be lower with generic programs than with custom‐built programs; be higher for those developed for imperiled species; change over time; and be higher for those published in journals with high impact factors (IFs). Each included study was evaluated based on answers to an evaluation framework containing 32 questions reflecting whether and to what extent the PVA study adhered to published PVA guidelines or contained important PVA components. All measures of PVA quality were generally lower for studies based on generic programs. Conservation status of the species did not affect any measure of PVA quality, but PVAs published in high IF journals were of higher quality. Quality generally declined over time, suggesting the quantitative literacy of PVA practitioners has not increased over time or that PVAs developed by unskilled users are being published in peer‐reviewed journals. Only 18.1% of studies were of high quality (score >75%), which is troubling because poor‐quality PVAs could misinform conservation decisions. We call for increased scrutiny of PVAs by journal editors and reviewers. Our evaluation framework can be used for this purpose. Because poor‐quality PVAs continue to be published, we recommend caution while using PVA results in conservation decision making without thoroughly assessing the PVA quality.
Begutachtung in der Dermatologie
Authors: Elsner Peter
Published: August 2019

Neben den ärztlichen Aufgaben in Diagnostik, Therapie und Prävention von Hauterkrankungen gehört auch die Gutachtertätigkeit zum Berufsbild des Dermatologen. Als Gutachter ist er für öffentlich‐rechtliche Institutionen und Gerichte, aber auch für private Auftraggeber tätig. Im dermatologischen Gutachten werden medizinische Erkenntnisse und Erfahrungen auf einen Einzelfall im Hinblick auf eine rechtliche Fragestellung angewandt; der dermatologische Sachverständige ist damit „Gehilfe“ einer Verwaltung, Behörde oder eines Gerichtes. Neben der erforderlichen Fachkenntnis muss der Gutachter strikte Neutralität wahren und jede Befangenheit vermeiden.

Eine besondere Bedeutung haben Gutachten in der Berufsdermatologie, wobei wissenschaftliche Gutachten zum Vorliegen einer Berufskrankheit der Haut und zur Höhe der Minderung der Erwerbsfähigkeit von den viel häufigeren „kleinen Gutachten“ der Stellungnahmen zur Prävention im Hautarztverfahren zu unterscheiden sind. Daneben gewinnen Gutachten in Arzthaftpflichtfragen im Auftrag von Gerichten und Gutachterkommissionen der Landesärztekammern zunehmend an Bedeutung.

Für die Qualitätssicherung der dermatologischen Gutachtertätigkeit werden insbesondere von der Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Berufs‐ und Umweltdermatologie der DDG (ABD) Gutachter‐Zertifizierungskurse angeboten; ferner existieren Begutachtungsempfehlungen für die Berufskrankheiten der Haut (Bamberger Empfehlungen).
Impact of an invasive tree on arthropod assemblages in woodlots isolated within an intensive agricultural landscape
Authors: Štrobl Martin , Saska Pavel , Seidl Miroslav , Kocian Matúš , Tajovský Karel , Řezáč Milan , Skuhrovec Jiří , Marhoul Pavel , Zbuzek Bořivoj , Jakubec Pavel , Knapp Michal , Kadlec Tomáš
Published: August 2019

Aim

Landscape simplification and the spread of invasive species are considered beyond the main threats to global biodiversity. It is well recognized that non‐crop habitats bring complexity to farmland and provide refuge for a wide range of organisms, including arthropods. However, knowledge about the effects of invasive trees on arthropods in non‐crop habitats in intensive agricultural landscapes is still weak. Therefore, we examined differences in the arthropod assemblages between woodlots formed by the invasive black locust (Robinia pseudoacaciaL.) and by native deciduous tree species in the intensive agricultural landscape.

Location

Czech Republic, Central Europe.

Methods

We used a multi‐taxonomic approach to record arthropod assemblages using various sampling methods. The impacts of woodlot habitat structure were investigated across 13 arthropod taxa from different trophic levels.

Results

Total abundance and species richness of all arthropods and the majority of the herbivore taxa were lower inR. pseudoacaciawoodlots, likely due to losses of the forest canopy specialists. The forest specialists were associated with the native woodlots with more developed canopy and shrub layers. The impoverished diversity of the forest specialists and canopy herbivores in theR. pseudoacaciawoodlots was partly compensated by the higher presence of species exploiting a well developed herb layer and open‐habitat specialists, including threatened species.

Main conclusions

Native woodlots and those formed byR. pseudoacaciadiffer in vegetation structure and host different assemblages of arthropods. Therefore, parallel presence of both types of woodlots supports arthropod diversity in otherwise simplified agricultural landscapes through creating more complex mosaic of habitats.
The ethical contours of research in crisis settings: five practical considerations for academic institutional review boards and researchers
Authors: Falb Kathryn , Laird Betsy , Ratnayake Ruwan , Rodrigues Katherine , Annan Jeannie
Published: August 2019

The number of research studies in the humanitarian field is rising. It is imperative, therefore, that institutional review boards (IRBs) consider carefully the additional risks present in crisis contexts to ensure that the highest ethical standards are upheld. Ethical guidelines should represent better the specific issues inherent to research among populations grappling with armed conflict, disasters triggered by natural hazards, or health‐related emergencies. This paper seeks to describe five issues particular to humanitarian settings that IRBs should deliberate and on which they should provide recommendations to overcome associated challenges: staged reviews of protocols in acute emergencies; flexible reviews of modification requests; addressing violence and the traumatic experiences of participants; difficulties in attaining meaningful informed consent among populations dependent on aid; and ensuring reviews are knowledgeable of populations' needs. Considering these matters when reviewing protocols will yield more ethically sound research in humanitarian settings and hold researchers accountable to appropriate ethical standards.
Assessing the impact of household participation on satisfaction and safe design in humanitarian shelter projects
Authors: Opdyke Aaron , Javernick‐Will Amy , Koschmann Matt
Published: August 2019

Participation has long been considered important for post‐disaster recovery. Establishing what constitutes participation in post‐disaster shelter projects, however, has remained elusive, and the links between different types of participation and shelter programme outcomes are not well understood. Furthermore, recent case studies suggest that misguided participation strategies may be to blame for failures. This study analysed 19 shelter projects implemented in the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan in November 2013 to identify the forms of participation employed. Using fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis, it assessed how household participation in the planning, design, and construction phases of shelter reconstruction led to outcomes of household satisfaction and safe shelter design. Participation was operationalised via eight central project tasks, revealing that the involvement of households in the early planning stages of projects and in construction activities were important for satisfaction and design outcomes, whereas engagement during the design phase of projects had little impact on the selected outcomes.
Attrition rates in trials for adolescents and young adults at clinical high‐risk for psychosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Farris Megan S. , Devoe Daniel J. , Addington Jean
Published: August 2019

Background

Treatment of those at clinical high‐risk (CHR) for developing psychosis may lead to preventive strategies. However, attrition in trials may hamper efforts to detect effective changes and lead to bias. Our objective was to synthesize the relative attrition rates in clinical trials conducted in CHR for psychosis samples.

Method

We searched the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL and EBM with no restrictions. Inclusion criteria was any treatment‐based randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in CHR samples that reported attrition. Relative attrition rates were calculated using random‐effects meta‐analysis, stratified by time, and reported as odds ratios (ORs), proportions, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Twenty‐one RCTs met our inclusion criteria, including a total of 2260 CHR participants. Attrition rates between all treatment types identified were not statistically different from control treatments at any time‐point. When accessing overall trial attrition, the pooled attrition rate was 29.57% (95% CI = 23.84‐35.63%) with statistically significant heterogeneity (I2 = 88.70%; P < .001). Furthermore, 11 trials had a subsequent follow‐up after the intervention was conducted and the pooled attrition was 33.96% (95% CI = 24.94‐43.59%). When examining predictors of attrition, no statistically significant subgroup differences were observed in attrition rates.

Conclusions

Almost one third of CHR participants will not complete participation in an RCT, however no predictors were found to be statistically significantly related to attrition. Methods to account for missing data and attrition are warranted in CHR trials to account for potential biases associated with high attrition rates.
Chlorogenic acid ameliorates memory loss and hippocampal cell death after transient global ischemia
Authors: Hermawati Ery , Arfian Nur , Mustofa Mustofa , Partadiredja Ginus
Published: August 2019

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is known to have antioxidant potentials, yet the effect of CGA on brain ischemia has not been sufficiently understood. Brain ischemia such as transient global ischemia disrupts many areas of the brain of rats, including the hippocampus. Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups, that is, sham‐operated (SO), bilateral common carotid occlusion (BCCO), and BCCO+ 15, 30, and 60 mg/kg bw CGA groups (CGA15, CGA30, and CGA60, respectively). Brain ischemia was induced in Wistar rats with BCCO for 20 min followed by intraperitoneal injection of CGA. The rats were examined for the spatial memory in a Morris water maze test on the 3rd day and were euthanized on the 10th day after BCCO. The total number of pyramidal cells was estimated, and the mRNA expressions of Bcl2, Bax, caspase‐3, SOD2, SOD1, GPx, ET‐1, eNOS, CD31, and VEGF‐A were measured. The BCCO group spent less time and distance in the target quadrant than any other group in the spatial memory retention test. The CA1 pyramidal cell numbers in the BCCO and CGA15 groups were lower than in the CGA30 and CGA60 groups. The mRNA expressions of Bcl2, SOD2, and CD31 in the BCCO group were lower than in the CGA15, CGA30, and CGA60 groups. The ET‐1 expression was higher in the BCCO and CGA15 groups than in the SO, CGA30, and CGA60 groups. CGA improves the spatial memory and prevents the CA1 pyramidal cell death after BCCO by increasing Bcl2, SOD2, and CD31 expressions and decreasing ET‐1 expression.
How differing modes of non‐genetic inheritance affect population viability in fluctuating environments
Authors: Proulx Stephen R. , Dey Snigdhadip , Guzella Thiago , Teotónio Henrique
Published: August 2019

Different modes of non‐genetic inheritance are expected to affect population persistence in fluctuating environments. We here analyse Caenorhabditis elegans density‐independent per capita growth rate time series on 36 populations experiencing six controlled sequences of challenging oxygen level fluctuations across 60 generations, and parameterise competing models of non‐genetic inheritance in order to explain observed dynamics. Our analysis shows that phenotypic plasticity and anticipatory maternal effects are sufficient to explain growth rate dynamics, but that a carryover model where ‘epigenetic’ memory is imperfectly transmitted and might be reset at each generation is a better fit to the data. We further find that this epigenetic memory is asymmetric since it is kept for longer when populations are exposed to the more challenging environment. Our analysis suggests that population persistence in fluctuating environments depends on the non‐genetic inheritance of phenotypes whose expression is regulated across multiple generations.
Standing flank laparotomy for the treatment of small colon impactions in 15 ponies and one horse
Authors: Herbert E. W. , Lopes M. A. F. , Kelmer G.
Published: August 2019

Impactions are the most common problem affecting the small colon in horses and are much more prevalent in ponies and miniature horses. Ventral midline laparotomy under general anaesthesia is the standard of care for this condition when medical management fails to resolve the impaction or when the impaction causes complete intraluminal obstruction and tympany. This case series reports the use of standing flank laparotomy (SFL) in 15 ponies with focal small colon impactions and one large breed horse with an elongated small colon impaction. All cases presented with signs of colic of 1–4 days' duration. The horses were initially vigorously treated with both enteral and parental fluids but failed to pass faeces, with no resolution of abdominal distention or pain. In all cases, a definitive diagnosis was made duringSFLand the small colon appeared to be viable. The impaction was resolved by extraluminal massage. In the horse and in one pony, in addition to extraluminal massage, high enema was administered during surgery. Routine perioperative treatment with fluids, analgesics, antimicrobials and wound care was provided. All animals survived to discharge. The time from surgical resolution of the impaction to passing faeces was less than 2 h in all but one case. Median duration of hospitalisation was 2 days and all animals returned to their original use by 2 months. The encouraging results of this case series suggest thatSFLis a viable alternative to ventral laparotomy for ponies and horses with either focalSCIor extensiveSCI.
Trait‐based ecology of fishes: A quantitative assessment of literature trends and knowledge gaps using topic modelling
Authors: Luiz Osmar J. , Olden Julian D. , Kennard Mark J. , Crook David A. , Douglas Michael M. , Saunders Thor M. , King Alison J.
Published: August 2019

Species traits are a new data currency to enhance our understanding of ecological patterns and processes. Trait‐based studies of fishes are numerous in comparison with other animal groups, reflecting the diversity of fish forms and functions they provide to aquatic ecosystems. We conduct a retrospective examination of literature to identify knowledge gaps and provide guidance for future research in trait‐based fish ecology. We apply an automated text mining and topic modelling to track the evolution of research topics within peer‐reviewed articles of functional traits in marine and freshwater fishes published over the past half century, explore the inter‐connections among those topics and identify emerging avenues for investigation. By mapping the topic landscape of the literature, 16 latent topics emerged that vary in their prevalence. Our results show a decline in the frequency of studies using reproductive traits to model and explore the way fish allocate energy for reproduction, and increase in studies reporting functional diversity metrics and utilizing the concept of multivariate functional space. Research focused on contributions of fish traits to ecosystem functioning also has increased in frequency. We revealed large gaps in information between growing and decreasing topics and that these gaps were derived from different types of traits being considered. We suggest that scientists break‐free from the traditions of their research field by targeting investigations that: (a) apply functional diversity metrics to a broader assortment of traits, (b) focus on traits influencing energy allocation to growth/reproduction and (c) integrate trophic‐web and behavioural studies with other topics.
PynA is a pyrimidine 5′‐nucleotidase that functions as an antimutator protein inStreptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Ulrych Aleš , Petráčková Denisa , Goldová Jana , Buriánková Karolína , Doubravová Linda , Branny Pavel
Published: August 2019

Streptococcus pneumoniaeis a Gram‐positive bacterium that is a major agent of community‐acquired bacterial pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis. Although the mismatch repair function ofS. pneumoniaehas been assigned to thehexA‐hexBgene products, an enzyme capable of the direct elimination of noncanonical nucleotides from the cytoplasm has not been described for this bacterium. Our results show that Spr1057, a protein with previously unknown function, is involved in the inactivation of mutagenic pyrimidine nucleotides and was accordingly designated PynA (pyrimidine nucleotidase A). Biochemical assays confirmed the phosphatase activity of the recombinant enzyme and revealed its metal ion dependence for optimal enzyme activity. We demonstrated that PynA forms a homodimer with higherin vitroactivity towards noncanonical 5‐fluoro‐2′‐deoxyuridine monophosphate than towards canonical thymidine monophosphate. Furthermore, we showed viain vivoassays that PynA protects cells against noncanonical pyrimidine derivatives such as 5‐fluoro‐2′‐deoxyuridine and prevents the incorporation of the potentially mutagenic 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (5‐BrdU) intoDNA. Fluctuation analysis performed underS. pneumoniaeexposure to 5‐BrdU revealed that thepynAnull strain accumulates random mutations with high frequency, resulting in a 30‐fold increase in the mutation rate. The data support a model in which PynA, a protein conserved in other Gram‐positive bacteria, functions as a house‐cleaning enzyme by selectively eliminating noncanonical nucleotides and maintaining the purity ofdNTPpools, similar to the YjjG protein described forEscherichia coli.
Financial literacy and financial resilience: Evidence from around the world
Authors: Klapper Leora , Lusardi Annamaria
Published: August 2019

We measure financial literacy using questions assessing basic knowledge of four fundamental concepts in financial decision making: knowledge of interest rates, interest compounding, inflation, and risk diversification. Worldwide, just one in three adults are financially literate—that is, they know at least three out of the four financial concepts. Women, poor adults, and lower educated respondents are more likely to suffer from gaps in financial knowledge. This is true not only in developing countries but also in countries with well‐developed financial markets. Relatively low financial literacy levels exacerbate consumer and financial market risks as increasingly complex financial instruments enter the market. Credit products, many of which carry high interest rates and complex terms and conditions, are becoming more readily available. Yet only around half of adults in major emerging countries who use a credit card or borrow from a financial institution are financially literate. We discuss policies to protect borrowers against risks and encourage account holders to save.
Benefits of foreign language learning and bilingualism: An analysis of published empirical research 2005–2011
Authors: Fox Rebecca , Corretjer Olga , Webb Kelley , Tian Jie
Published: August 2019

Despite decades of controversy surrounding foreign language study, empirical research has emerged to substantiate the multiple benefits that language learning and bilingualism afford to both individuals and society. This study comprises a survey and analysis of empirical research on this topic published during the first two decades of the 21st century: Part I, presented here, builds upon results of an earlier compilation of studies and includes research published during 2005–2011; Part II (forthcoming from Fox, Corretjer, and Webb) will include an analysis of the empirical research appearing from 2012 to 2019. The 65 studies from Part I reveal eight principal themes: Three themes from the previous compilation of studies were applied as etic codes, and five additional themes emerged from studies published during this particular time frame. Results underscore the importance of early and sustained language study to actualize benefits and promote a mindset where language education is a reality for all. Part I results provide a baseline against which a subsequent analysis of studies that were published on the same topic from 2012 to 2019 will be compared. Conclusions include recommendations for stakeholders and a call for more interdisciplinary research.
A paleosol record of the evolution of Cr redox cycling and evidence for an increase in atmospheric oxygen during the Neoproterozoic
Authors: Colwyn David Auerbach , Sheldon Nathan D. , Maynard J. Barry , Gaines Robert , Hofmann Axel , Wang Xiangli , Gueguen Bleuenn , Asael Dan , Reinhard Christopher T. , Planavsky Noah J.
Published: August 2019

Atmospheric oxygen levels control the oxidative side of key biogeochemical cycles and place limits on the development of high‐energy metabolisms. Understanding Earth's oxygenation is thus critical to developing a clearer picture of Earth's long‐term evolution. However, there is currently vigorous debate about even basic aspects of the timing and pattern of the rise of oxygen. Chemical weathering in the terrestrial environment occurs in contact with the atmosphere, making paleosols potentially ideal archives to track the history of atmospheric O2 levels. Here we present stable chromium isotope data from multiple paleosols that offer snapshots of Earth surface conditions over the last three billion years. The results indicate a secular shift in the oxidative capacity of Earth's surface in the Neoproterozoic and suggest low atmospheric oxygen levels (<1% PAL pO2) through the majority of Earth's history. The paleosol record also shows that localized Cr oxidation may have begun as early as the Archean, but efficient, modern‐like transport of hexavalent Cr under an O2‐rich atmosphere did not become common until the Neoproterozoic.
Spatial heterogeneity in climate change effects decouples the long‐term dynamics of wild reindeer populations in the high Arctic
Authors: Hansen Brage Bremset , Pedersen Åshild Ønvik , Peeters Bart , Le Moullec Mathilde , Albon Steve D. , Herfindal Ivar , Sæther Bernt‐Erik , Grøtan Vidar , Aanes Ronny
Published: August 2019

The ‘Moran effect’ predicts that dynamics of populations of a species are synchronized over similar distances as their environmental drivers. Strong population synchrony reduces species viability, but spatial heterogeneity in density dependence, the environment, or its ecological responses may decouple dynamics in space, preventing extinctions. How such heterogeneity buffers impacts of global change on large‐scale population dynamics is not well studied. Here, we show that spatially autocorrelated fluctuations in annual winter weather synchronize wild reindeer dynamics across high‐Arctic Svalbard, while, paradoxically, spatial variation in winter climate trends contribute to diverging local population trajectories. Warmer summers have improved the carrying capacity and apparently led to increased total reindeer abundance. However, fluctuations in population size seem mainly driven by negative effects of stochastic winter rain‐on‐snow (ROS) events causing icing, with strongest effects at high densities. Count data for 10 reindeer populations 8–324 km apart suggested that density‐dependent ROS effects contributed to synchrony in population dynamics, mainly through spatially autocorrelated mortality. By comparing one coastal and one ‘continental’ reindeer population over four decades, we show that locally contrasting abundance trends can arise from spatial differences in climate change and responses to weather. The coastal population experienced a larger increase in ROS, and a stronger density‐dependent ROS effect on population growth rates, than the continental population. In contrast, the latter experienced stronger summer warming and showed the strongest positive response to summer temperatures. Accordingly, contrasting net effects of a recent climate regime shift—with increased ROS and harsher winters, yet higher summer temperatures and improved carrying capacity—led to negative and positive abundance trends in the coastal and continental population respectively. Thus, synchronized population fluctuations by climatic drivers can be buffered by spatial heterogeneity in the same drivers, as well as in the ecological responses, averaging out climate change effects at larger spatial scales.
Solid Foundations? Towards a Historical Sociology of Prison Building Programmes in England and Wales, 1959–2015
Authors: GUINEY THOMAS
Published: August 2019

Between 1959 and 2015 the UK government embarked upon five major phases of prison building in England and Wales. Drawing upon detailed archival research, this article offers a historical sociology of prison building programmes. It traces the evolution of prison building as a public policy concern and documents how this key site of penal policymaking was interpreted, and contested, by policy actors who were themselves embedded within deep institutional structures of power and meaning. It argues that prison building has moved from the margins to the mainstream of penal policy, shaped by strongly‐held convictions about the liberal‐democratic state, the competition for control of finite resources and the complex ‘geography of administration’ that underpins the British machinery of government.
Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus to control Escherichia coli on meat matrices
Authors: Ottaviani Donatella , Pieralisi Silvia , Angelico Gabriele , Mosca Francesco , Tiscar Pietro Giorgio , Rocchegiani Elena , Scuota Stefania , Petruzzelli Annalisa , Fisichella Stefano , Blasi Giuliana , DiRaimo Enrico , Leoni Francesca , Latini Mario , Altissimi Serena , Haouet Naceur
Published: August 2019

Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus is a predator micro‐organism towards other Gram‐negative bacteria. We tested B. bacteriovorus to control Escherichia coli growth on chicken slices and canned beef. Moreover, we analysed B. bacteriovorus's lytic ability on eight toxigenic or multidrug‐resistant E. coli strains. In chicken slices, the predator induced the highest prey reduction (4.3 log) respect to control at 6 h. In canned beef, the predator induced the highest prey reduction (2.1 log) respect to control at 6 h. Moreover, B. bacteriovorus showed lytic ability towards all tested E. coli strains. B. bacteriovorus could control E. coli and other pathogenic and spoilage bacteria in those meat‐based foods that have a shelf life <10 days. It could integrate modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to prolong the shelf life and improve the safety of pre‐packed fresh meat, meat preparations and meat products. In future applications on meat‐based foods, B. bacteriovorus could also minimise the use of additives.
Dietary interference on the oxidation and hydrolysis of liposomes during in vitro digestion
Authors: Lu Junmeng , Tu Piaohan , Feng Yanwen , Li Na , Xu Xiankang , Li Kexuan , Yao Yixin , Han Jianzhong , Liu Weilin
Published: August 2019

In this study, the influence of dietary compounds, including antioxidants (ethylenediaminetetraacid, ascorbic acid, catechin), chitosan and lactoferrin, on the stability of liposomes during in vitro adult and infant digestion was investigated in terms of formation of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) and free fatty acid release. Liposomes were more sensitive to degradation in adults than in infants, suggesting lower pH (1.5) and higher concentration of pancreatic enzymes (3.2 mg mL−1) and bile salts (5 mg mL−1) that indicated greater damage to the structure of liposomes. Compared to ethylenediaminetetraacid and ascorbic acid, catechin presented the most apparent protective effect against liposomal oxidation by scavenging free radicals. Chitosan promoted the formation of TBARS, while lactoferrin facilitated the hydrolysis rate of liposomes under both adult and infant conditions. This study provided an insight into the development of healthcare products and functional foods related to liposomes for special populations.
Interleukin‐9 blockage reduces early hepatic granuloma formation and fibrosis during Schistosoma japonicum infection in mice
Authors: Zhan Tingzheng , Ma Huihui , Jiang Suqin , Zhong Zirong , Wang Xiaoli , Li Chunxiang , Yu Dan , Liu Lei , Xu Jing , Xia Chaoming
Published: August 2019

Hepatic fibrosis induced by schistosomes is regulated by a complex network of cytokines. T helper type 9 (Th9) cells are a new type of effector T helper cells, which mainly secrete the specific cytokine interleukin‐9 (IL‐9). Interleukin‐9 has been shown to contribute to liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B and in a mouse model due to carbon tetrachloride. However, the role of IL‐9 in schistosomiasis fibrosis remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the roles of IL‐9 in schistosomiasis through in vivo and in vitro studies. The in vivo studies found that neutralization of IL‐9 reduced liver granulomatous inflammation and collagen deposition around parasite eggs. The in vitro studies found that the treatment of primary hepatic stellate cells with IL‐9 induced a significant increase of collagen and α‐smooth‐muscle actin. Moreover, we also described the dynamics and relevance of IL‐9 and IL‐4 in mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum. We found that IL‐9 might appear more quickly and at higher levels than IL‐4. Hence, our findings indicated that IL‐9 might play a role in regulating hepatic fibrosis in early‐stage schistosomiasis and become a promising approach for regulating hepatic fibrosis caused by S. japonicum.
Torasemide versus furosemide in treatment of heart failure: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Sherif Nourin Ali , Morra Mostafa Ebraheem , Thanh Le Van , Elsayed Ghadeer Gamal , Elkady Aya Hesham , Elshafay Abdelrahman , Kien Nguyen Dang , AL‐HABBAA Ahmed , Minh Le Huu Nhat , Y Mai Nhu , Nghia Thai Le Ba , Mohammed Abdelrhman Tarek , Eid Peter Samuel , Turk Tarek , Hirayama Kenji , Huy Nguyen Tien
Published: August 2019

Aim

Diuretics are a cornerstone in treatment of heart failure (HF). Torasemide is a loop diuretic with a potential advantage over other diuretics. We aim to meta‐analyse and compare the effect of torasemide with furosemide in HF patients.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search using 12 databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing furosemide and torasemide in HF patients were included and meta‐analysed. We assessed the risk of bias using Cochrane Collaboration's tool. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42016046112).

Results

Eighteen RCTs with 1598 patients were included. There was a significant difference between torasemide 20 mg and furosemide 40 mg in increasing the urine volume (standard difference of the mean (SDM) [95% confidence interval] = −0.78 [−1.52 to −0.053], P = .036). Torasemide 10 mg and 10 to 20 mg have a significant effect on potassium excretion in comparison with furosemide 25 to 40 mg (P = .018 and .023, respectively). In general, torasemide and furosemide have no significant difference in mortality, edema improvement, weight loss, heart rate, and reducing systolic/diastolic blood pressure. However, oral torasemide has a significant lower hospital stay P < .001 and superior effect in improving ejection fraction P = .029.

Conclusion

Although not all results are statistically significant, torasemide has potential advantages on multiple aspects of HF management when compared with furosemide. More studies are needed to clarify these effects.
EXTERNAL GOVERNANCE AND THE COST OF EQUITY FINANCING
Authors: Sassi Syrine , Saadi Samir , Boubaker Sabri , Chourou Lamia
Published: August 2019

We examine whether and how competitive pressure in the product market influences the cost of equity capital. Using a large panel of U.S. public firms, we find that intensification of product market competition results in lower equity financing costs. Our results are statistically significant and economically sizable. In line with the view of the disciplinary role of product market competition, we show that corporate governance, payout policy, and investment policy are channels through which competitive pressure influences the cost of equity capital.
Impact of Cognitive Impairment Across Specialties: Summary of a Report From the U13 Conference Series
Authors: Carpenter Christopher R. , McFarland Frances , Avidan Michael , Berger Miles , Inouye Sharon K. , Karlawish Jason , Lin Frank R. , Marcantonio Edward , Morris John C. , Reuben David B. , Shah Raj C. , Whitson Heather E. , Asthana Sanjay , Verghese Joe
Published: August 2019

Although declines in cognitive capacity are assumed to be a characteristic of aging, increasing evidence shows that it is age‐related disease, rather than age itself, that causes cognitive impairment. Even so, older age is a primary risk factor for cognitive decline, and with individuals living longer as a result of medical advances, cognitive impairment and dementia are increasing in prevalence. On March 26 to 27, 2018, the American Geriatrics Society convened a conference in Bethesda, MD, to explore cognitive impairment across the subspecialties. Bringing together representatives from several subspecialties, this was the third of three conferences, supported by a U13 grant from the National Institute on Aging, to aid recipients of Grants for Early Medical/Surgical Specialists' Transition to Aging Research (GEMSSTAR) in integrating geriatrics into their subspecialties. Scientific sessions focused on the impact of cognitive impairment, sensory contributors, comorbidities, links between delirium and dementia, and issues of informed consent in cognitively impaired populations. Discussions highlighted the complexity not only of cognitive health itself, but also of the bidirectional relationship between cognitive health and the health of other organ systems. Thus, conference participants noted the importance of multidisciplinary team science in future aging research. This article summarizes the full conference report, “The Impact of Cognitive Impairment Across Specialties,” and notes areas where GEMSSTAR scholars can contribute to progress as they embark on their careers in aging research. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2011–2017, 2019
Identification of plant genes putatively involved in the perception of fungal ergosterol‐squalene
Authors: Lindo Laura , Cardoza Rosa E. , Lorenzana Alicia , Casquero Pedro A. , Gutiérrez Santiago
Published: August 2019

Trichoderma biocontrol strains establish a complex network of interactions with plants, in which diverse fungal molecules are involved in the recognition of these fungi as nonpathogenic organisms. These molecules act as microbial‐associated molecular patterns that trigger plant responses. Previous studies have reported the importance of ergosterol produced by Trichoderma spp. for the ability of these fungi to induce plant growth and defenses. In addition, squalene, a sterol biosynthetic intermediate, seems to play an important role in these interactions. Here, we analyzed the effect of different concentrations of ergosterol and squalene on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) growth and on the transcription level of defense‐ and growth‐related genes. We used an RNA‐seq strategy to identify several tomato genes encoding predicted pattern recognition receptor proteins or WRKY transcription factors, both of which are putatively involved in the perception and response to ergosterol and squalene. Finally, an analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana mutants lacking the genes homologous to these tomato candidates led to the identification of a WRKY40 transcription factor that negatively regulates salicylic acid‐related genes and positively regulates ethylene‐ and jasmonate‐related genes in the presence of ergosterol and squalene.
Is There a Fatherhood Wage Premium? A Reassessment in Societies With Strong Male‐Breadwinner Legacies
Authors: Mari Gabriele
Published: August 2019

Objective

This study examines whether fatherhood sparks the wage attainment of men or rather entry into fatherhood is simply more typical for high‐earning men and at times of wage growth during the career cycle.

Background

Fatherhood premiums may contribute to gender economic inequalities, particularly in countries with strong male‐breadwinner legacies such as Germany and the United Kingdom. Yet, as male‐breadwinner norms have waned and policies have started fostering men's role as carers, wage premiums could be a thing of the past. Also, the mechanisms usually invoked to account for fatherhood premiums—effort allocation, couple specialization, and employer discrimination—seem of little relevance even in these countries. Entry into parenthood spurred by wage attainment is therefore scrutinized as an alternative source of the apparent premiums on average and across cohorts.

Method

The author uses long‐running panel data for both countries and three regression‐based approaches (pooled ordinary least squares, fixed effects estimation, and fixed effects individual‐slope estimation).

Results

Overall, fatherhood wage bonuses could not be detected on average as well as across birth cohorts. At best, estimates were compatible with modest premiums among older cohorts of men. Positive selection on both prior wage levels and wage growth was found to be largely responsible for the apparent wage boost. The contribution of selection on prior wage levels though has been fading across cohorts, meaning that men select into fatherhood less and less on the basis of time‐invariant characteristics positively related to both wages and the chance of becoming a father.

Conclusion

The link between fatherhood and wages appears to be more of a selection story than a causal one, even in contexts with strong male‐breadwinner legacies.
A deficient or an excess of dietary threonine level affects intestinal mucosal integrity and barrier function in broiler chickens
Authors: Ji Shuyun , Qi Xi , Ma Shuxue , Liu Xing , Liu Shengguo , Min Yuna
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of deficient or excess of dietary threonine (Thr) levels on intestinal integrity and barrier function of broilers. A total of 432 1‐day‐old commercial broilers (Arbor Acre) were assigned to four experiment groups consisting of six replicates of 18 birds. The treatments were designed as follows: 85%, 100%, 125% and 150% of NRC (Nutrient requirements of poultry (9th edn). Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1994) recommendations. The results indicated that expressions of jejunal and ileal secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) mRNA were increased linearly or quadratically by increasing Thr (p < .05), and the highest sIgA mRNA abundance was obtained in 125% Thr level. Likewise, the intestinal sIgA content showed similar increasing trend with the intestinal sIgA gene expression in this instance. The high level of Thr inclusion upregulated mucin 2 (MUC2) mRNA expression in the jejunum and ileum (p < .05). In addition, on day 21, the expression levels of jejunal zonula occludens‐2 (ZO‐2) and ileal zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) decreased then increased with increasing Thr level (p < .05), whereas, the mRNA expressions of occludin in the jejunum and ileum had no significant difference amongst groups (p >.05). On day 42, Thr treatments did not affect the mRNA abundance of measured genes in the jejunum and ileum (p > .05). These findings suggested that Thr might be a nutrient immunomodulator that affects intestinal barrier function, moreover, 125% of the NRC (1994) recommendations Thr level was optimum.
Robust Linear Interpolation and Extrapolation of Stationary Time Series in Lp
Authors: Liu Yan , Xue Yujie , Taniguchi Masanobu
Published: August 2019

To deal with uncertainty of the spectral distribution, we consider minimax interpolation and extrapolation problems in Lp for stationary processes. The interpolation and extrapolation problems can be regarded as a linear approximation problem on the unit disk in the complex plane. Although the robust one‐step‐ahead predictor and interpolator has already been considered separately in the previous literature, we give two conditions for the uncertainty class to find the minimax interpolator and extrapolator in the general framework from both the point of view of the observation set and the point of view of evaluation on the interpolation and extrapolation error under the Lp‐norm. We show that there exists a minimax interpolator and extrapolator for the class of spectral densities ε‐contaminated by unknown spectral densities under our conditions. When the uncertainty class contains spectral distribution functions which are not absolutely continuous to the Lebesgue measure, we show that there exists an approximate interpolator and extrapolator in Lp such that its maximal interpolation and extrapolation error is arbitrarily close to the minimax error when the spectral distributions have densities. Our results are applicable to the stationary harmonizable stable processes.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of oral firocoxib in adult, mixed‐breed goats
Authors: Stuart Amy K. , KuKanich Butch , Caixeta Luciano S. , Coetzee Johann F. , Barrell Emily A.
Published: August 2019

Pharmacokinetic (PK) studies of oral firocoxib in large animal species have been limited to horses, preruminating calves, and adult camels. The aim of this study was to describe pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of firocoxib in adult goats. Ten healthy adult goats were administered 0.5 mg/kg firocoxib intravenously (i.v.) and per os (p.o.) in a randomized, crossover study. Plasma firocoxib concentrations were measured over a 96‐hr period for each treatment using HPLC and mass spectrometry, and PK analysis was performed. The p.o. formulation reached mean peak plasma concentration of 139 ng/ml (range: 87–196 ng/ml) in 0.77 hr (0.25–2.00 hr), and half‐life was 21.51 hr (10.21–48.32 hr). Mean bioavailability was 71% (51%–82%), indicative of adequate gastrointestinal absorption of firocoxib. There were no negative effects observed in any animal, and all blood work values remained within or very near reference range at the study's conclusion. Results indicate that oral firocoxib is well‐absorbed and rapidly reaches peak plasma concentrations, although the concentration also decreased quickly prior to the terminal phase. The prolonged half‐life may suggest tissue accumulation and higher plasma concentrations over time, depending on dosing schedule. Further studies to determine tissue residue depletion, pharmacodynamics, and therapeutic concentrations of firocoxib in goats are necessary.
Tetraethylammonium, glibenclamide, and 4‐aminopyridine modulate post‐occlusive reactive hyperemia in non‐glabrous human skin with no roles of NOS and COX
Authors: Fujii Naoto , McGarr Gregory W. , Ichinose Masashi , Nishiyasu Takeshi , Kenny Glen P.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Post‐occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) following arterial occlusion is widely used to assess cutaneous microvascular function, though the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. We evaluated the hypothesis that Ca2+‐activated, ATP‐sensitive, and voltage‐gated K+ channels (KCa, KATP, and KV channels, respectively) contribute to PORH while nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX) do not.

Methods

On separate occasions, cutaneous blood flow (laser Doppler flowmetry) was monitored before and following 5‐min arterial occlusion at forearm skin sites treated via microdialysis with the following: Experiment 1 (n = 11): (a) lactated Ringer solution (Control), (b) 10 mM Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine (NOS inhibitor), (c) 10 mM ketorolac (COX inhibitor), and (d) combined NOS+COX inhibition; Experiment 2 (n = 14): (a) lactated Ringer solution (Control), (b) 50 mM tetraethylammonium (non‐selective KCa channel blocker), (c) 5 mM glibenclamide (non‐specific KATP channel blocker), and (d) 10 mM 4‐aminopyridine (non‐selective KV channel blocker).

Results

Separate and combined NOS and COX inhibition did not influence PORH. Conversely, tetraethylammonium and glibenclamide attenuated, whereas 4‐aminopyridine augmented PORH.

Conclusions

We showed that tetraethylammonium, glibenclamide, and 4‐aminopyridine modulate PORH with no roles of NOS and COX in human non‐glabrous forearm skin in vivo. Thus, cutaneous PORH changes could reflect altered K+ channel function.