bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical defences and performance of specialist and generalist herbivores: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Rothwell Elizabeth M. , Holeski Liza M.
Published: October 2019

1. Phytochemical coevolution theory, a long‐standing paradigm in plant–insect interactions, predicts that specialist herbivores are less negatively affected by the allelochemicals of their host plants than are generalist herbivores. Although this theory is prevalent in plant–insect science, it is not always supported by empirical studies measuring the performance of specialist and generalist insects in response to allelochemicals.

2. The present study aimed to investigate: (i) whether there a difference between specialist and generalist performance in response to allelochemicals and (ii) whether the effect of allelochemicals on specialists and generalists depend upon allelochemical class or insect order.

3. A meta‐analysis was conducted incorporating 76 effect sizes drawn from studies that directly compared the performance of specialist and generalist insects in response to treatment and control diets. Most of the effect sizes were related to the performance metric growth, the insect order Lepidoptera, and the allelochemical class nitrogen‐containing compounds.

4. As predicted by phytochemical coevolution theory, specialist insects responded less negatively to allelochemicals of their hosts than generalist insects in terms of growth. There were no significant differences in terms of fecundity or survival, or among allelochemical classes or insect orders.

5. These results support the prediction of phytochemical coevolution theory that specialist insects respond less negatively to allelochemicals of their hosts than generalists, although only in terms of growth.
Cavity type influences abundance of nest‐dwelling avian blow flies: an experiment with tree swallows
Authors: Griebel Ilsa A. , Dawson Russell D. , Clark Robert G.
Published: October 2019

1. Diverse assemblages of blood‐feeding parasitic arthropods occupy the nests of birds, and nest temperature and humidity can strongly influence the population dynamics of these ectoparasites, with important implications for parasite–host relationships.

2. This study used two types of nest box that differed in internal microclimates, one constructed of plywood and the other constructed of boles of aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.), more closely replicating natural cavities, to examine how nest microclimate affects the prevalence and abundance of nest‐dwelling larval blow flies (Protocalliphora and Trypocalliphora spp.) in nests of tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor Vieillot, 1808).

3. Based on known microclimatic differences between the box types and responses of larval blow flies to different temperatures, it was predicted that the microclimate of plywood boxes would be more favourable for growth and development of larval blow flies, and therefore have higher abundance, and possibly higher prevalence, of larval blow flies.

4. Plywood nest boxes had higher abundance, but not prevalence, of larval blow flies compared with aspen boxes at two different geographical locations in Canada. Nest composition also differed between box types, particularly at one site, where aspen boxes contained more nesting material (grass and feathers) than did plywood boxes.

5. Although it seems probable that microclimate was driving the differences between box types in abundance of larval blow flies, several additional explanations are discussed. These findings may have implications for conservation efforts, particularly those where nest boxes are used to aid in the recovery of declining bird populations.
Angiotensin II modulates amphetamine‐induced glial and brain vascular responses, and attention deficit via angiotensin type 1 receptor: Evidence from brain regional sensitivity to amphetamine
Authors: Marchese Natalia Andrea , Occhieppo Victoria Belén , Basmadjian Osvaldo Martin , Casarsa Brenda Solange , Baiardi Gustavo , Bregonzio Claudia
Published: October 2019

Amphetamine‐induced neuroadaptations involve vascular damage, neuroinflammation, a hypo‐functioning prefrontal cortex (PFC), and cognitive alterations. Brain angiotensin II, through angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1‐R), mediates oxidative/inflammatory responses, promoting endothelial dysfunction, neuronal oxidative damage and glial reactivity. The present work aims to unmask the role of AT1‐R in the development of amphetamine‐induced changes over glial and vascular components within PFC and hippocampus. Attention deficit was evaluated as a behavioral neuroadaptation induced by amphetamine. Brain microvessels were isolated to further evaluate vascular alterations after amphetamine exposure. Male Wistar rats were administered with AT1‐R antagonist, candesartan, followed by repeated amphetamine. After one week drug‐off period, animals received a saline or amphetamine challenge and were evaluated in behavioral tests. Afterward, their brains were processed for cresyl violet staining, CD11b (microglia marker), GFAP (astrocyte marker) or von Willebrand factor (vascular marker) immunohistochemistry, and oxidative/cellular stress determinations in brain microvessels. Statistical analysis was performed by using factorial ANOVA followed by Bonferroni or Tukey tests. Repeated amphetamine administration increased astroglial and microglial markers immunoreactivity, increased apoptotic cells, and promoted vascular network rearrangement at the PFC concomitantly with an attention deficit. Although the amphetamine challenge improved the attentional performance, it triggers detrimental effects probably because of the exacerbated malondialdehyde levels and increased heat shock protein 70 expression in microvessels. All observed amphetamine‐induced alterations were prevented by the AT1‐R blockade. Our results support the AT1‐R involvement in the development of oxidative/inflammatory conditions triggered by amphetamine exposure, affecting cortical areas and increasing vascular susceptibility to future challenges.
Polyploid plants have faster rates of multivariate niche differentiation than their diploid relatives
Authors: Baniaga Anthony E. , Marx Hannah E. , Arrigo Nils , Barker Michael S.
Published: October 2019

Polyploid speciation entails substantial and rapid postzygotic reproductive isolation of nascent species that are initially sympatric with one or both parents. Despite strong postzygotic isolation, ecological niche differentiation has long been thought to be important for polyploid success. Using biogeographic data from across vascular plants, we tested whether the climatic niches of polyploid species are more differentiated than their diploid relatives and if the climatic niches of polyploid species differentiated faster than those of related diploids. We found that polyploids are often more climatically differentiated from their diploid parents than the diploids are from each other. Consistent with this pattern, we estimated that polyploid species generally have higher rates of multivariate niche differentiation than their diploid relatives. In contrast to recent analyses, our results confirm that ecological niche differentiation is an important component of polyploid speciation and that niche differentiation is often significantly faster in polyploids.
Realistic driving simulation during generalized epileptiform discharges to identify electroencephalographic features related to motor vehicle safety: Feasibility and pilot study
Authors: Cohen Eli , Antwi Prince , Banz Barbara C. , Vincent Peter , Saha Rick , Arencibia Christopher A. , Ryu Jun H. , Atac Ece , Saleem Nehan , Tomatsu Shiori , Swift Kohleman , Hu Claire , Krestel Heinz , Farooque Pue , Levy Susan , Wu Jia , Crowley Michael , Vaca Federico E. , Blumenfeld Hal
Published: October 2019

Objective

Generalized epileptiform discharges (GEDs) can occur during seizures or without obvious clinical accompaniment. Motor vehicle driving risk during apparently subclinical GEDs is uncertain. Our goals were to develop a feasible, realistic test to evaluate driving safety during GEDs, and to begin evaluating electroencephalographic (EEG) features in relation to driving safety.

Methods

Subjects were aged ≥15 years with generalized epilepsy, GEDs on EEG, and no clinical seizures. Using a high‐fidelity driving simulator (miniSim) with simultaneous EEG, a red oval visual stimulus was presented every 5 minutes for baseline testing, and with each GED. Participants were instructed to pull over as quickly and safely as possible with each stimulus. We analyzed driving and EEG signals during GEDs.

Results

Nine subjects were tested, and five experienced 88 GEDs total with mean duration 2.31 ± 1.89 (SD) seconds. Of these five subjects, three responded appropriately to all stimuli, one failed to respond to 75% of stimuli, and one stopped driving immediately during GEDs. GEDs with no response to stimuli were significantly longer than those with appropriate responses (8.47 ± 3.10 vs 1.85 ± 0.69 seconds, P < .001). Reaction times to stimuli during GEDs were significantly correlated with GED duration (r = 0.30, P = .04). In addition, EEG amplitude was greater for GEDs with no response to stimuli than GEDs with responses, both for overall root mean square voltage amplitude (66.14 μV vs 52.99 μV, P = .02) and for fractional power changes in the frequency range of waves (P < .05) and spikes (P < .001).

Significance

High‐fidelity driving simulation is feasible for investigating driving behavior during GEDs. GEDs with longer duration and greater EEG amplitude showed more driving impairment. Future work with a large sample size may ultimately enable classification of GED EEG features to predict individual driving risk.
White line disease: A review (1998–2018)
Authors: O’Grady S. E. , Burns T. D.
Published: October 2019

White line disease (WLD) is a significant pathological condition that affects the equine hoof. White line disease continues to frustrate veterinarians and farriers due to the diversity regarding the aetiology, diagnosis and especially treatment. Furthermore, WLD lacks a definitive definition as the disease becomes apparent only when the hoof wall is compromised with an extensive separation, a hoof capsule distortion is present or when lameness exists. Clinical signs can range from a minor hoof wall separation to an extensive disruption of the external laminar bond resulting in displacement of the distal phalanx within the hoof capsule. There has been a myriad of treatments and topical preparations proposed for treating WLD, but most remain controversial with few having any scientific documentation or evidence of efficacy. This review of WLD is based on the sparse information available in the veterinary literature, the large number of WLD cases treated successfully in the authors’ combined practices using conventional farriery and the relevant questions that hopefully can be answered in the future.
Ecosystem‐based fisheries management: A perspective on the critique and development of the concept
Authors: Lidström Susanna , Johnson Andrew F.
Published: October 2019

The concept of ecosystem‐based fisheries management (EBFM) has been subjected to debate since it was introduced in the late 1990s. The development of the concept seems to follow two separate but simultaneous trajectories of increased popularity but also sustained critique. This paper offers an analysis of potential mechanisms behind these disparate trajectories by drawing on a theoretical framework from science and technology studies (STS) centred around "black box" and actor‐network theory. To support our analysis, we perform an exploratory literature review of how the EBFM concept has been used in a selection of high impact fisheries research papers. We find that the popularity of EBFM does not guarantee its integrity, usefulness or analytical insight, but also that persistent critique of how the concept is used seems to be driving some change. We think that a continued trajectory of increased understanding, contextualization and discernibility of EBFM can help overcome the considerable ambiguity associated with the concept and make it increasingly useful to fisheries management. This means moving away from routine use of the term towards a practicable and tangible approach to improve fisheries sustainability.
Family Health Leaders: Lessons on Living with Li‐Fraumeni Syndrome across Generations
Authors: Pantaleao Ashley , Young Jennifer L. , Epstein Norman B. , Carlson Mae , Bremer Renée C. , Khincha Payal P. , Peters June A. , Greene Mark H. , Roy Kevin , Achatz Maria Isabel , Savage Sharon A. , Werner‐Lin Allison
Published: October 2019

Li‐Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) is a hereditary disorder that confers an approximately 90% lifetime risk of cancer and requires comprehensive lifetime cancer screening. We explored healthcare roles for managing LFS‐related cancer risks and treatments that were assumed by parents, adolescents, and adult children. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 23 families. Family groupings were comprised of 2–5 members, with the younger generation in each family ranging in age from 7 to 40 years. Using grounded theory methods, we conducted open and focused coding of interview transcript content. Family members described how the role of health leader was implemented in their family, as well as factors such as maturation of a child or death of a member that determined who assumed particular roles and how these roles shifted over time. They often expressed collective responsibility for helping relatives understand LFS and implement appropriate cancer risk management. Members demonstrated their health role by attending others’ medical appointments for support or information gathering. The health leader role was intergenerational and provided the family necessary support in navigating complicated healthcare decisions. Our findings provide insight into healthcare providers regarding how LFS patients and their relatives develop unique medical decision‐making and caring roles influenced by the hereditary nature of LFS, and how these roles change over time. Providers who are attuned to family role dynamics may be better able to meet relatives’ psychosocial and medical needs by understanding how living with LFS influences the family system’s functioning and facilitating members’ support for each other.
Stress–strain curves of metallic materials and post‐necking strain hardening characterization: A review
Authors: Tu Shengwen , Ren Xiaobo , He Jianying , Zhang Zhiliang
Published: October 2019

For metallic materials, standard uniaxial tensile tests with round bar specimens or flat specimens only provide accurate equivalent stress–strain curve before diffuse necking. However, for numerical modelling of problems where very large strains occur, such as plastic forming and ductile damage and fracture, understanding the post‐necking strain hardening behaviour is necessary. Also, welding is a highly complex metallurgical process, and therefore, weldments are susceptible to material discontinuities, flaws, and residual stresses. It becomes even more important to characterize the equivalent stress–strain curve in large strains of each material zone in weldments properly for structural integrity assessment. The aim of this paper is to provide a state‐of‐the‐art review on quasi‐static standard tensile test for stress–strain curves measurement of metallic materials. Meanwhile, methods available in literature for characterization of the equivalent stress–strain curve in the post‐necking regime are introduced. Novel methods with axisymmetric notched round bar specimens for accurately capturing the equivalent stress–strain curve of each material zone in weldment are presented as well. Advantages and limitations of these methods are briefly discussed.
Which practices co‐deliver food security, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and combat land degradation and desertification?
Authors: Smith Pete , Calvin Katherine , Nkem Johnson , Campbell Donovan , Cherubini Francesco , Grassi Giacomo , Korotkov Vladimir , Le Hoang Anh , Lwasa Shuaib , McElwee Pamela , Nkonya Ephraim , Saigusa Nobuko , Soussana Jean‐Francois , Taboada Miguel Angel , Manning Frances C. , Nampanzira Dorothy , Arias‐Navarro Cristina , Vizzarri Matteo , House Jo , Roe Stephanie , Cowie Annette , Rounsevell Mark , Arneth Almut
Published: October 2019

There is a clear need for transformative change in the land management and food production sectors to address the global land challenges of climate change mitigation, climate change adaptation, combatting land degradation and desertification, and delivering food security (referred to hereafter as “land challenges”). We assess the potential for 40 practices to address these land challenges and find that: Nine options deliver medium to large benefits for all four land challenges. A further two options have no global estimates for adaptation, but have medium to large benefits for all other land challenges. Five options have large mitigation potential (>3 Gt CO2eq/year) without adverse impacts on the other land challenges. Five options have moderate mitigation potential, with no adverse impacts on the other land challenges. Sixteen practices have large adaptation potential (>25 million people benefit), without adverse side effects on other land challenges. Most practices can be applied without competing for available land. However, seven options could result in competition for land. A large number of practices do not require dedicated land, including several land management options, all value chain options, and all risk management options. Four options could greatly increase competition for land if applied at a large scale, though the impact is scale and context specific, highlighting the need for safeguards to ensure that expansion of land for mitigation does not impact natural systems and food security. A number of practices, such as increased food productivity, dietary change and reduced food loss and waste, can reduce demand for land conversion, thereby potentially freeing‐up land and creating opportunities for enhanced implementation of other practices, making them important components of portfolios of practices to address the combined land challenges.
Geographical variation in bill size provides evidence for Allen’s rule in a cosmopolitan raptor
Authors: Romano Andrea , Séchaud Robin , Roulin Alexandre
Published: October 2019

Aim

Avian beak morphology is a good example of how anatomical structures have evolved in response to different selective pressures, such as diet and vocalizations, but also thermoregulation. The last of these functions was neglected until recently, but convincing evidence has been provided regarding the capacity of birds to regulate heat dissipation through their highly vascularized bills. According to this adaptive function and coherently with the ecogeographical “Allen's rule”, which predicts smaller body appendages in colder climates, large beaks should be favoured in warm environments. Here, we tested this prediction in the cosmopolitan common barn owl group.

Location

World.

Time period

1809–2017.

Major taxa studied

Tyto alba species complex.

Methods

We analysed the variation in bill length relative to body size according to temperature, latitude and elevation in 7,619 barn owls. The specimens were collected by 140 museums and represent three distinct evolutionary lineages that occur in geographically separated regions and cover the entire distributional range of the species complex: the Afro‐Palaearctic Tyto alba, the Australasian Tyto javanica and the American Tyto furcata.

Results

In the three lineages, the bill becomes larger with increasing temperature. This convergent pattern of evolution of smaller bills in colder climates is associated with a latitudinal variation in temperature, because small‐billed individuals occurred at higher latitudes than conspecifics living closer to the Equator. Moreover, in T. furcata, large‐billed birds mostly occurred at lower elevations closer to the Equator, with bill length decreasing progressively with concomitant increase in latitude and elevation.

Discussion

These findings provide evidence for the repeated evolution of bill size on a global scale that is compatible with Allen's rule. These results suggest a role of the bill as a potential heat‐exchange surface in nocturnal raptors, which are not directly exposed to solar radiation and whose bill shape evolved primarily to hunt and consume animal prey.
Forage and animal production on palisadegrass pastures growing in monoculture or as a component of integrated crop–livestock–forestry systems
Authors: de Carvalho Perivaldo , Domiciano Leandro Ferreira , Mombach Mircéia Angele , do Nascimento Hemython Luis Bandeira , Cabral Luciano da Silva , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Pereira Dalton Henrique , Pedreira Bruno Carneiro
Published: October 2019

To meet the global demand for animal protein, sustainable intensification of existing livestock systems may be possible, especially through integration of livestock with crops or forestry. Thus, our objective was to compare forage production and animal performance in grass monoculture and integrated systems in the Brazilian Amazon biome. The four systems were (a) livestock (L) with Marandu palisadegrass {Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R. D. Webster} as monoculture, (b) palisadegrass pastures integrated with eucalyptus trees (Eucalyptus urograndis; hybrid of Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden and Eucalyptus urophylla S. T. Blake) arranged in three‐row groves with groves spaced 30 m apart (livestock–forestry; LF), (c) palisadegrass after two years of crops (crop–livestock; CL) and (d) palisadegrass after two years of crops with single rows of eucalyptus trees spaced 37 m apart (crop–livestock–forestry; CLF). From July 2016 to July 2017, all experimental units were continuously stocked using a variable stocking rate. Greater herbage accumulation (HA) occurred in CL and CLF in comparison with L and LF (21,310, 24,050, 19,500 and 18,890 kg DM/ha respectively). The gain per hectare of L, LF and CL (average of 932 kg ha–1) was less than CLF (1,190 kg ha–1). Average daily gain was similar among systems (0.69 kg/day). We conclude that integrated systems can support similar (LF or CL) or greater (CLF) levels of animal production than palisadegrass monocultures while increasing diversity of outputs, thereby providing a greater range of viable systems for livestock production in the Brazilian Amazon biome.
All things considered, my risk for diabetes is medium: A risk personalization process of familial risk for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Daack‐Hirsch Sandra , Shah Lisa L. , Jones Kaitlyn , Rocha Brenda , Doerr Megan , Gabitzsch Emily , Meese Thad
Published: October 2019

Background

A positive family history of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been associated with risk awareness and risk‐reducing behaviours among the unaffected relatives. Yet, little is known about how people with a positive family history for diabetes develop and manage their personal sense of risk.

Objective

To characterize two key concepts, salience and vulnerability, within the familial risk perception (FRP) model among unaffected individuals, at increased familial risk for T2D.

Design

We conducted a mixed method study. Descriptions of salience and vulnerability were collected through semi‐structured interviews. Participant's perception of self‐reported risk factors (family history, age, race/ethnicity, medical history, weight and exercise) was measured using the Perceived Risk Factors for T2D Tool and was compared to a clinical evaluation of the same risk factors.

Results

We identified two components of salience: (a) concern for developing T2D and (b) risk awareness triggers, and two features of vulnerability: (a) statement of risk and (b) risk assessment devices. Although few participants (26%) were concordant between their perceived and clinical overall T2D risk, concordance for individual risk factors was higher, ranging from 42% (medical history) to 90% (family history).

Discussion and conclusion

Both familial and non‐familial events lead people to contemplate their T2D risk, even among people who have a positive family history. Participants often downplayed their overall risk and underestimated their overall risk compared to a clinical risk assessment of the same self‐reported risk factors. Clinicians could leverage key components of the FRP process as way to engage patients in risk reduction strategies earlier.
Engagement with advice to reduce cardiovascular risk following a health check programme: A qualitative study
Authors: Alageel Samah , Gulliford Martin C. , Wright Alison , Khoshaba Bernadette , Burgess Caroline
Published: October 2019

Background

The success of a cardiovascular health check programme depends not only on the identification of individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) but also on reducing CVD risk. We examined factors that might influence engagement and adherence to lifestyle change interventions and medication amongst people recently assessed at medium or high risk of CVD (>10% in the next 10 years).

Method

Qualitative study using individual semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed using the Framework method.

Results

Twenty‐two participants (12 men, 10 women) were included in the study. Four broad themes are described: (a) the meaning of ‘risk’, (b) experiences with medication, (c) attempts at lifestyle change, and (d) perceived enablers to longer‐term change. The experience of having a health check was mostly positive and reassuring. Although participants may not have understood precisely what their CVD risk meant, many reported efforts to make lifestyle changes and take medications to reduce their risk. Individual’s experience with medications was influenced by family, friends and the media. Lifestyle change services and family and friends support facilitated longer‐term behaviour change.

Conclusions

People generally appear to respond positively to having a CVD health check and report being motivated towards behaviour change. Some individuals at higher risk may need clearer information about the health check and the implications of being at risk of CVD. Concerns over medication use may need to be addressed in order to improve adherence. Strategies are required to facilitate engagement and promote longer‐term maintenance with lifestyle changes amongst high‐risk individuals.
Aquafaba from commercially canned chickpeas as potential egg replacer for the development of vegan mayonnaise: recipe optimisation and storage stability
Authors: Raikos Vassilios , Hayes Helen , Ni He
Published: October 2019

Aquafaba, the viscous liquid recovered from canned chickpeas, was used as egg replacer for the development of vegan mayonnaise. The textural, microstructural and physicochemical properties of mayonnaise were determined during cold storage to optimise the aquafaba‐to‐oil ratio (A/O) of the formulation (15%–25%/80%–70%). Aquafaba was capable to form a stable emulsion with an average value of droplet size distribution below 4 μm. The physical stability determined by the Turbiscan Stability Index (TSI) was unaffected by the A/O ratio during 21 days of storage at 4 °C. The lowest droplet size distribution was obtained for samples with a low A/O ratio (15/80%). Firmness, adhesive force and adhesiveness decreased (P < 0.05) with increasing the A/O ratio, whereas consistency remained unaffected. The oxidative stability of the oil phase was similar for all formulations and remained unaffected during storage. Aquafaba can be used effectively to replace egg in mayonnaise formulations containing oil at standard levels.
Impact of the solidification path of FeOx–SiO2 slags on the resultant inorganic polymers
Authors: Siakati Christina , Douvalis Alexios P. , Ziogas Panagiotis , Peys Arne , Pontikes Yiannis
Published: October 2019

Aiming to reduce the carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement production, alternative binders such as inorganic polymers currently receive substantial attention and slags from the non‐ferrous metallurgy are promising precursors. However, studies  that correlate their chemistry and crystallinity with the newly formed binder remain limited. In this work, the effect of three different solidification methods on glass formation and reactivity of FeOx–SiO2 slags, as well as on the molecular structure of the resultant Fe‐rich inorganic polymers, was investigated. The inorganic polymers were synthesized by mixing the slags (approximate molar ratio FeO/SiO2 = 1.6) with an alkali silicate solution (molar ratios SiO2/Na2O = 1.6 and H2O/Na2O = 25). Results demonstrated that higher cooling rates promoted higher glass formation and faster reaction kinetics when the slags were activated. 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy indicated that all the slags consisted predominantly of Fe2+ ions with a minor amount of Fe3+ ions, regardless of the variability in glass content. The binder phase of all inorganic polymers consisted of iron in both Fe2+ and Fe3+ states, after 28 days of curing. After pulverizing the inorganic polymer pastes and exposing the powder to air for 28 additional days, the Fe2+ state in the binder transformed to Fe3+. The compressive strength evolution of the three slags showed that the 2‐day strength was higher for the samples with a higher amorphous fraction, while after 28 days, this influence was less pronounced.
Comparison of manual and automated auscultatory blood pressure during graded exercise among people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Moore Myles N. , Picone Dean S. , Callisaya Michele L. , Srikanth Velandai , Sharman James E. , Schultz Martin G.
Published: October 2019

Manual measurement of blood pressure (BP) during exercise testing is the recommended standard. Automated measurement of BP is an alternative method used during clinical exercise testing, but there is little data comparing manual and automated BP in this setting. The aim of this study was to determine the concordance between manual and automated BP during a standard clinical treadmill exercise test. 416 participants (66 ± 5 years; 54% male) completed a Bruce treadmill exercise test at baseline or follow‐up within a clinical trial of participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Manual and automated BP were measured simultaneously at each exercise test stage. Manual BP was measured by a technician blinded to automated BP values (Tango+, Suntech). Concordance between manual and automated BP was assessed using mean differences and intraclass correlations (ICC). Concordance between manual and automated BP across all exercise stages was excellent for systolic BP (overall mean difference: 3 ± 11 mm Hg, P = .598; ICC = 0.964 [95% CI 0.942‐0.977] and pulse pressure (overall mean difference: 2 ± 14 mm Hg, P = .595; ICC = 0.934 [95% CI 0.899‐0.956]). Concordance between manual and automated diastolic BP across all exercise stages was moderate‐to‐good (overall mean difference: 1 ± 9 mm Hg, P = .905; ICC = 0.784 [95% CI 0.672‐0.858]). Automated BP using the Tango + device is concordant with manual BP during early stages of a standard clinical exercise test. Thus, this automated method may be a suitable alternative to manual measurement of BP during clinical exercise testing.
CircRhoC promotes tumorigenicity and progression in ovarian cancer by functioning as a miR‐302e sponge to positively regulate VEGFA
Authors: Wang Li‐Li , Zong Zhi‐Hong , Liu Yao , Guan Xue , Chen Shuo , Zhao Yang
Published: October 2019

Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of deaths due to gynaecological malignancy. While endogenous non‐coding circular RNAs (circRNAs) in cancer have attracted attention, their roles in ovarian cancer are not known. We used qRT‐PCR to quantify expression of circRhoC in ovarian cancer tissues and normal tissues. The effects of overexpressing or destruction of circRhoC on the phenotype of ovarian cancer cells were assessed both in vitro and in vivo. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay assesses the microRNA sponge function of circRhoC. Western blotting was used to confirm the effects of circRhoC and microRNA on target gene expression. Our results showed that circRhoC was significantly up‐regulated in ovarian cancer tissues compared to normal ovarian tissues. Overexpression of circRhoC in CAOV3 ovarian cancer cell increased cell viability, migration and invasion ability; destroying circRhoC in A2780 had the opposite effects and inhibited ovarian tumour cell A2780 dissemination in the peritoneum in vivo. We confirmed circRhoC functions as a sponge for miR‐302e to positively regulate VEGFA; FISH experiments showed that circRhoC could co‐focal with miR‐302e; besides, overexpression of miR‐302e reversed the ability of circRhoC to positively regulate VEGFA, and what's more, RIP assay showed that circRhoC could directly bind with VEGFA; besides, VEGFA expression level in ovarian cancer tissues was positively associated with circRhoC expression. In conclusion, the oncogenic effect of RhoC in ovarian cancer is at least in part due to circRhoC, which functions not only as a miR‐302e sponge to positively regulate VEGFA protein expression, but may also directly bind and modulate VEGFA expression.
A More Flexible Bayesian Multilevel Bifactor Item Response Theory Model
Authors: Fujimoto Ken A.
Published: October 2019

Multilevel bifactor item response theory (IRT) models are commonly used to account for features of the data that are related to the sampling and measurement processes used to gather those data. These models conventionally make assumptions about the portions of the data structure that represent these features. Unfortunately, when data violate these models' assumptions but these models are used anyway, incorrect conclusions about the cluster effects could be made and potentially relevant dimensions could go undetected. To address the limitations of these conventional models, a more flexible multilevel bifactor IRT model that does not make these assumptions is presented, and this model is based on the generalized partial credit model. Details of a simulation study demonstrating this model outperforming competing models and showing the consequences of using conventional multilevel bifactor IRT models to analyze data that violate these models' assumptions are reported. Additionally, the model's usefulness is illustrated through the analysis of the Program for International Student Assessment data related to interest in science.
Treatment patterns of lipid‐lowering therapies and possible statin intolerance among statin users with clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or diabetes mellitus (DM) in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Wen‐Jone , Wen Yao‐Chun , Fox Kathleen M. , Shen Li‐Jiuan , Lin Lian‐Yu , Qian Yi , Zhao Zhongyun , Rane Pratik P. , Hsiao Fei‐Yuan
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To assess treatment patterns of statin and/or ezetimibe and possible statin intolerance among patients initiating statin or statin plus ezetimibe and with clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or diabetes mellitus (DM) in Taiwan.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study using Taiwan's 2005 to 2013 National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) was conducted. Patients with history of clinical ASCVD or DM (without previous clinical ASCVD) and initiating statin or statin plus ezetimibe therapy during 2006 to 2012 were identified. The treatment initiation date was defined as index date. Treatment patterns (including discontinuation, reinitiation, subtraction, switching, and augmentation), adherence (medication possession ratio [MPR]), persistence (gap no greater than 60 d) of statin and/or ezetimibe, and possible statin intolerance during 12‐month follow‐up from the index date were examined.

Results

Among patients initiating statin or statin plus ezetimibe, 11 092 patients with history of clinical ASCVD and 31 100 patients with DM but without clinical ASCVD were analysed. The discontinuation, reinitiation, and switching rates among patients with clinical ASCVD were 54.0%, 11.3%, and 25.7% during 12‐month follow‐up period, respectively. Among patients with DM, the rates were 57.5%, 14.2%, and 28.5%. The MPRs of statin among clinical ASCVD and DM cohorts were 0.62 and 0.60, respectively. As for ezetimibe, the MPRs were 0.56 and 0.59. Persistence to statin treatment was 46.1% among ASCVD patients and 42.6% among DM patients. Among the ASCVD and DM cohorts, possible statin intolerance was observed among 19.9% and 21.4% of patients, respectively.

Conclusions

Large number of patients with either ASCVD or DM discontinued lipid‐lowering therapies with suboptimal adherence and persistence among Taiwanese population. There is a large unmet medical need to provide safe and more effective therapies, which can be used in combination with statins or alone, to reduce the risk of CV events and improve outcomes in high‐risk patients.
Nonlinear and multiple linear regression analysis of airflow resistance in multiplier onion
Authors: Gomathy K. , Balakrishnan M. , Pandiselvam R.
Published: October 2019

The estimation of horizontal and vertical airflow resistance is essential for fabricating storage cum curing structure for multiplier onion. The horizontal and vertical airflow resistance of multiplier onion (var. CO‐4) was investigated at three different moisture levels of 80.8, 84.2, and 88.8% w.b., and the airflow rates varied from 1 to 1.7 m3 s−1 m−2. The horizontal airflow resistance was studied at three different depths of fill of 10, 20, and 30 cm. The resistance of multiplier onion to airflow increased significantly with increasing depth of fill, moisture content, and airflow rate. Models, namely Shedd's, Hukill and Ives equation, were investigated to explore the horizontal airflow resistance of onion. Shedd's equation was found to be the most suitable model with a high coefficient of determination and low RMSE value. The vertical airflow resistance was studied at a depth of fill of 5–15 cm and spacing between racks of 20–40 cm. The airflow resistance may be best expressed by the linear model with the highest adjusted R2 of .842 and a predicted R2 of .8053. The optimum curing conditions were obtained at an airflow rate of 1.15 m3 s−1 m−2, 14.5 cm depth of fill, and 35 cm spacing between racks.

Practical applications

Multiplier onion being an important spice crop in southern parts of India, the effective storage of the same becomes very essential. Under monsoon conditions, farmers face heavy postharvest losses of rotting and sprouting caused due to improper aeration within the storage structures. The efficient designing of storage structure requires data on the effect of airflow rate, depth of filling, and spacing between racks. The airflow resistance data are vital for optimizing the dimensions of the storage structure. The effect of these parameters and their interactions has been analyzed for the first time using nonlinear and multiple linear regression analysis. The optimized design dimensions could be utilized by farmers for constructing an optimal storage structure for multiplier onion with minimal storage losses even under monsoon conditions.
Numerical modeling and simulation of temperature profiles in finger millet bed during solid state fermentation
Authors: Chandrasekar Veerapandian , Ganapathy Shunmugam , Karthikeyan Subburamu , Nambi Eyarkai , Pandiselvam Ravi
Published: October 2019

The temperature profile (core temperature and temperature gradient) of the finger millets bed affects the efficiency of the solid‐state fermentation (SSF) process and quality of the product. Despite its detrimental effect, it is difficult to measure/monitor the temperature profile inside a chamber. Hence, the temperature profiles in the finger millets bed during SSF were predicted and analyzed using numerical modeling. The bed thicknesses (0.075, 0.15, and 0.225 m) and air flow velocities (0.12, 0.24, and 0.36 m/s) were varied to study the temperature profiles in the SSF process. Fermentation was carried out in a fixed bed solid‐state fermenter. The results showed that temperature profiles were depending upon both bed thickness and air velocity and the lesser differences in temperature profiles were observed at 0.15 m bed thickness and 0.24 m/s air velocity. The low relative error (−0.335–0.250) and chi‐square (0.00–4.09) values indicated that the model could be used for prediction of temperature profiles in finger millet bed and it could be used for online temperature profiling in commercial‐scale solid state fermenter.

Practical applications

SSF of finger millet is a promising bioconversion process and it is used for improving the nutritional and functional properties of millets. During the SSF process, continuous metabolic heat emission affects the quality of the end product. Hence, maintaining and controlling the temperature during SSF helps to improve the quality of product formation. However, formation of hard mass or densification of substrate does not enable to measure the temperature variation in the finger millet bed (substrate) and causes difficulty to maintain and control the temperature. Therefore, numerical models were developed to predict the temperature profile in the SSF process. The models could be useful for developing controllers to maintain the temperature in the SSF process that is required for quality product formation. Also, the developed model could be useful to develop the sensors for online measurement of temperature during SSF process and design and development of large‐scale solid state fermenter.
Statins After Myocardial Infarction in the Oldest: A Cohort Study in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink Database
Authors: Lefeber Geert J. , Koek Huiberdina L. , Souverein Patrick C. , Bouvy Marcel L. , de Boer Anthonius , Knol Wilma
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of initiating statins for secondary prevention after a first myocardial infarction (MI) in patients aged 80 years and older.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Clinical Practice Research Datalink (1999‐2016).

PARTICIPANTS

Patients, aged 65 years and older, hospitalized after a first MI without a statin prescription in the year before hospitalization. The age group of 65 to 80 years was included to compare our results to current evidence.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was a composite of recurrent MI, stroke, and cardiovascular mortality; and the secondary outcome was all‐cause mortality. A time‐varying Cox model was used to account for statin prescription over time. We compared at least 2 years of statin prescription time with untreated and less than 2 years of prescription time. Analyses were adjusted for potential confounders. The number needed to treat (NNT) was calculated based on the adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and corrected for deaths during the first 2 years of follow‐up.

RESULTS

A total of 9020 patients were included. Among the 3900 patients aged 80 years and older, 2 years of statin prescriptions resulted in a lower risk of the composite outcome (adjusted HR = 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.66‐0.99) and of all‐cause mortality (adjusted HR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.73‐0.97). During 4.5 years of median follow‐up, the NNT for prevention of the primary outcome was 59; and for mortality, the NNT was 36. Correcting for 36.2% deaths during the first 2 years increased the NNT on the primary outcome to 93 and to 61 on all‐cause mortality.

CONCLUSION

Our data support statin initiation after a first MI in patients aged 80 years and older if continued for at least 2 years. Especially in patients with a low risk of 2‐year mortality, statins should be considered. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:329–336, 2020
Intersected functional zone of transcriptional regulators patterns stemness within stem cell niche of root apical meristem
Authors: Xu Meizhi , Gu Xu , Liang Nengsong , Bian Xinxin , Wang Hong , Qin Yaxin , Pi Limin , Wu Shuang
Published: October 2019

Root stem cell niche (SCN) consists of a quiescent center (QC) and surrounding stem cells. Disrupted symplastic communication leads to loss of stemness in the whole SCN. Several SCN regulators were reported to move between cells for SCN maintenance. However, single mutant of these regulators is insufficient to abolish QC stemness despite the high differentiation rate in surrounding stem cells. To dissect the mechanism behind such distinct stemness in SCN, we combined the mis‐expression strategy with pWOX5:icals3m system in which QC is symplastically isolated. We found the starch accumulation in QC could be synergistically repressed by WUSCHEL‐RELATED HOMEOBOX 5 (WOX5), SHORT‐ROOT (SHR), SCARCROW (SCR), and PLETHORA (PLT). Like PLTs, other core regulators also exhibited dimorphic functions by inhibiting differentiation at a higher dose while promoting cell division at a low protein level. Being located in the center of the intersected expression zones, QC cells receive the highest level of core regulators, forming the most robust stemness within SCN. WUSCHEL‐RELATED HOMEOBOX 5 was sufficient to activate PLT1/2 expression, contributing to the QC‐enriched PLTs. Our results provide experimental evidence supporting the long‐standing hypothesis that the combination of spatial expression, synergistic function and dosage effect of core regulators result in spatially distinct stemness in SCN.
The plant N‐degron pathways of ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis
Authors: Holdsworth Michael John , Vicente Jorge , Sharma Gunjan , Abbas Mohamad , Zubrycka Agata
Published: October 2019

The amino‐terminal residue of a protein (or amino‐terminus of a peptide following protease cleavage) can be an important determinant of its stability, through the Ubiquitin Proteasome System associated N‐degron pathways. Plants contain a unique combination of N‐degron pathways (previously called the N‐end rule pathways) E3 ligases, PROTEOLYSIS (PRT)6 and PRT1, recognizing non‐overlapping sets of amino‐terminal residues, and others remain to be identified. Although only very few substrates of PRT1 or PRT6 have been identified, substrates of the oxygen and nitric oxide sensing branch of the PRT6 N‐degron pathway include key nuclear‐located transcription factors (ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR VIIs and LITTLE ZIPPER 2) and the histone‐modifying Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 component VERNALIZATION 2. In response to reduced oxygen or nitric oxide levels (and other mechanisms that reduce pathway activity) these stabilized substrates regulate diverse aspects of growth and development, including response to flooding, salinity, vernalization (cold‐induced flowering) and shoot apical meristem function. The N‐degron pathways show great promise for use in the improvement of crop performance and for biotechnological applications. Upstream proteases, components of the different pathways and associated substrates still remain to be identified and characterized to fully appreciate how regulation of protein stability through the amino‐terminal residue impacts plant biology.
Fathers matter too! Lived experience of pedagogical hope in raising children with Down syndrome
Authors: Armijos‐Yambay K. , Jordán Sierra J. A.
Published: October 2019

Background

Pedagogical hope is a fundamental disposition for raising children. This attitude among fathers of children with Down syndrome (DS) plays an essential role in their children's development. This phenomenological study sought to explore fathers' lived experiences and to reflect on what it means to be a pedagogically hopeful father of a child with DS.

Methods

Max van Manen's hermeneutic–phenomenological method was applied. Phenomenological interviews were held with 10 fathers of children with DS in Spain, Ecuador and Scotland. Anecdotal narratives from the transcribed interviews were analysed based on philosophical, philological and human science methods.

Results

The four eidetic themes in the phenomenological text show how a pedagogically hopeful father (1) is realistic; (2) believes in the strengths of his child with DS; (3) trusts in his positive influence; and (4) is open to unexpected surprises.

Conclusions

Lived experiences of pedagogical hope reveal fathers' fundamental roles in stimulating the utmost development of their child's capabilities. Reflecting on this pedagogical attitude will undoubtedly encourage fathers, educators and health care professionals to make the most of this disposition and enhance their relationship with their children with DS.