bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward an institutional perspective on social capital health interventions: lay community health workers as social capital builders
Authors: Adams Crystal
Published: November 2019

This article argues that social capital health research should move beyond a mere focus on social cohesion and network perspectives to integrate an institutional approach into the development of social capital health interventions. An institutional perspective, which is unique in its emphasis on linking social capital in addition to the bonding and bridging forms, contextualises social capital, allowing researchers to confront the complexity of social relationships. This perspective allows for the construction of interventions that draw on the resources of diverse actors, particularly the state. One intervention strategy with the potential to create community linkages involves lay community health workers (LCHWs), individuals who are trained to perform a variety of health‐related functions but lack a formal professional health education. This article begins with a review of the institutional social capital‐building literature. It then goes on to briefly review the social capital and health literature and discuss the state of intervention research. Thereafter, it describes LCHWs and discusses studies that have utilised LCHWs to tackle community health problems. In doing so, this article presents an institutional‐based systematic framework for how LCHWs can build social capital, including a discussion of the ways in which LCHWs can successfully promote bonding, bridging and linking social capital.
Aphids‐induced plant volatiles affect diel foraging behavior of a ladybird beetle Coccinella septempunctata
Authors: Norkute Milda , Olsson Ulf , Ninkovic Velemir
Published: November 2019

The ladybird beetle Coccinella septempunctata (L.) is an important biocontrol agent of pests such as various aphid species. Despite being one of the most studied coccinellid species, many aspects of its foraging behavior are still not completely understood. This study focuses on the diel foraging behavior of C. septempunctata, investigating their olfactory orientation toward aphid‐infested plants, walking activity on plants and on the soil, and feeding rates. In the scotophase the ladybird beetles were significantly more attracted to the odor of aphid‐infested plants, on which they also showed considerably higher walking activity then on uninfested controls. Females were more prone to utilize olfactory cues when searching for prey and fed at higher rates than males; this shows that they are better adapted to nocturnal activity, as they require higher food intake. Coccinella septempunctata have the same feeding rate during the scotophase as in the photophase. Our study shows that C. septempunctata has the potential to forage in the scotophase if prey is abundant. The results support the hypothesis that volatiles of aphid‐infested plants can attract or arrest foraging adult ladybird beetles, even in the darkness, which makes a considerable contribution to efficient prey search and enhances feeding capacity.
Operation rate is more than double the revision rate for periprosthetic femur fractures
Authors: Constantin Harry , Le Michael , de Steiger Richard , Harris Ian A.
Published: November 2019

Background

Periprosthetic femur fractures (PFFs) following hip arthroplasty can lead to significant morbidity due to their impact on mobility and the need for surgery. Its incidence often measured by the prosthesis revision rate reported in joint replacement registries. However, many PFFs are also treated with prosthesis retention and internal fixation. Minimally displaced and stable fractures may be treated without surgery. Knowledge of the difference between the number of femoral revisions for PFF (well reported in registries) and the number of surgeries for PFF overall would allow us to estimate the overall surgical burden. This study aims to determine the number of post‐operative PFF in three hospitals and compare those treated with revision surgery to those PFF treated with internal fixation and femoral stem retention. By determining this difference, we can ascertain a more accurate estimate of the overall surgical burden of PFF.

Method

Patients 50 years and older who sustained a post‐operative PFF between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2017 at three public hospitals were extracted from hospital records. The number of revision procedures was compared to the number of re‐operations of any type.

Results

There were 200 patients admitted for management of PFF. One hundred and forty‐three (71.5%) required an operation of which 67 (47%) were revision arthroplasty.

Conclusion

The overall surgical burden of PFF is approximately twice that represented by the revision rate.
Intravitreal ranibizumab for persistent diabetic vitreous haemorrhage: a randomised, double‐masked, placebo‐controlled feasibility study.
Authors: Petrarca Robert , Soare Cristina , Wong Roger , Desai Riti , Neffendorf James , Simpson Andrew , Jackson Timothy L.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To determine the feasibility of a definitive study of intravitreal ranibizumab to promote the clearance of persistent diabetic vitreous haemorrhage and thereby avoid vitrectomy.

Methods

This randomised, double‐masked, placebo‐controlled feasibility study recruited 24 participants with persistent diabetic vitreous haemorrhage listed for pars plana vitrectomy. Participants were randomised to a single 0.5‐mg intravitreal ranibizumab injection or a single subconjunctival saline injection. The primary outcome measure was the number of participants requiring pars plana vitrectomy at week 7.

Results

Eight of 12 participants (66.7%) in the ranibizumab group required vitrectomy at week 7 versus 12 of 12 (100%) in the placebo group (absolute risk reduction 33.3%, 95% confidence interval 2.1–70.7%; p = 0.09). One additional eye in the ranibizumab group required vitrectomy by 12 months. Mean visual acuity letter score at 12 months was 72.7 ± 12.3 in the ranibizumab group and 75.1 ± 10.1 in the placebo group. Safety was similar across groups.

Conclusion

Intravitreal ranibizumab may reduce the likelihood of proceeding to vitrectomy in patients with persistent, dense diabetic vitreous haemorrhage. Further studies appear feasible and justified.
Fluvastatin potentiates anticancer activity of vorinostat in renal cancer cells
Authors: Okubo Kazuki , Isono Makoto , Miyai Kosuke , Asano Takako , Sato Akinori
Published: November 2019

Drug repositioning is an emerging approach to developing novel cancer treatments. Vorinostat is a histone deacetylase inhibitor approved for cancer treatment, but it could attenuate its anticancer activity by activating the mTOR pathway. The HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitor fluvastatin reportedly activates the mTOR inhibitor AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), and we thought that it would potentiate vorinostat's anticancer activity in renal cancer cells. The combination of vorinostat and fluvastatin induced robust apoptosis and inhibited renal cancer growth effectively both in vitro and in vivo. Vorinostat activated the mTOR pathway, as evidenced by the phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6, and fluvastatin inhibited this phosphorylation by activating AMPK. Fluvastatin also enhanced vorinostat‐induced histone acetylation. Furthermore, the combination induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress that was accompanied by aggresome formation. We also found that there was a positive feedback cycle among AMPK activation, histone acetylation, and ER stress induction. This is the first study to report the beneficial combined effect of vorinostat and fluvastatin in cancer cells.
Ultrasound mapping of lung changes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Manolescu Diana , Oancea Cristian , Timar Bogdan , Traila Daniel , Malita Daniel , Birsasteanu Florica , Tudorache Voicu
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common and severe form of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, accounted for 20% of cases of interstitial lung disease (ILD). In this study, we sought to compare the lung changes of IPF using a lung ultrasound (LUS) protocol of 12 zones with “current standard” high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) diagnostic method and overlap it with the functional pulmonary test as a complete clinical and imaging evaluation.

Methods

Thirty‐one patients were included in the study and performed HRCT and pulmonary functional tests (PFT). A 12‐lung zones' LUS protocol was used and compared with HRCT and PFT.

Results

The HRCT total fibrotic score had a correlation coefficient of 0.454 (P < 0.005) with predicted FVC and 0.713 with predicted DLCO (P < 0.001). Both the median of the number of B‐lines and the average of the thickness of the pleural line obtained in the LUS assessment had a positively and statistically significant correlation with the HRCT fibrotic score P < 0.001. The pleural thickness of 2.4 mm is the cut‐off value of the mild form of fibrosis with a sensitivity of 0.958 and a specificity of 0.994.

Conclusion

B‐lines and the average thickness of the pleural line as LUS markers of the fibrotic interstitial syndrome are highly and positively correlated with HRCT score, FVC and DLCO. LUS as a complementary method in the clinical management of IPF could be used more often by skilled clinicians to assess patients in terms of possible diagnosis and monitoring of IPF.
Reduced Risk of Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome of the Liver after Busulfan‐Cyclophosphamide Conditioning Prior to Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: El‐Serafi Ibrahim , Remberger Mats , Ringdèn Olle , Törlén Johan , Sundin Mikael , Björklund Andreas , Winiarski Jacek , Mattsson Jonas
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) of the liver and the clinical outcome after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) based on several modifications in our protocols. We retrospectively investigated 372 patients undergoing myeloablative conditioning with oral busulfan (Bu) and cyclophosphamide before allogeneic HSCT during 1990–2015. Patients' supportive care was changed in order to reduce the regimen‐related toxicities. Norethisterone use was terminated in 1998, therapeutic drug monitoring of Bu was initiated in 2000, and the use of liver supportive drugs, such as ursodeoxycholic acid and N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine, were started in 2002 and 2009, respectively. In total, 26 patients (7.0%) developed SOS at a median of 19 days after transplantation. Of these 26 patients, 20 died at a median of 119 days after HSCT and 102 days after the diagnosis of SOS. The incidence of SOS decreased over time in accordance with the improvements in supportive care. The highest incidence of SOS was during 1995–1999 (16.2%) compared with 2.3% during 2010–2015. Overall survival for patients with SOS was 62%, 46%, and 27% at 100 days, 1 year, and 5 years after HSCT, respectively, compared with 92%, 77%, and 66% for those who did not develop SOS (P < 0.001). In conclusion, the incidence of SOS and related deaths were significantly decreased over the last years. Our institution pursues massive preventative and personalized measures for SOS. This strategy may also be applicable in other conditioning protocols in order to reduce the incidence of SOS and, hence, improve the clinical outcome.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of an adult submandibular cystic choristoma
Authors: Behera Gayatri , Biswas Dipanwita , Parida Pradipta Kumar , Mohamedali Rasheeda , Adhya Amit Kumar , Mitra Suvradeep
Published: November 2019

This is a case report highlighting the cytological findings of a rare entity; an adult submandibular cystic choristoma. The cytological differentials are discussed in details in this article. This appears to be the first case with the availability of cytological details.
Assessing the effectiveness of foraging radius models for seabird distributions using biotelemetry and survey data
Authors: Critchley E. J. , Grecian W. J. , Bennison A. , Kane A. , Wischnewski S. , Cañadas A. , Tierney D. , Quinn J. L. , Jessopp M. J.
Published: November 2019

Relatively simple foraging radius models have the potential to generate predictive distributions for a large number of species rapidly, thus providing a cost‐effective alternative to large‐scale surveys or complex modelling approaches. Their effectiveness, however, remains largely untested. Here we compare foraging radius distribution models for all breeding seabirds in Ireland, to distributions of empirical data collected from tracking studies and aerial surveys. At the local/colony level, we compared foraging radius distributions to GPS tracking data from seabirds with short (Atlantic puffin Fratercula arctica, and razorbill Alca torda) and long (Manx shearwater Puffinus puffinus, and European storm‐petrel Hydrobates pelagicus) foraging ranges. At the regional/national level, we compared foraging radius distributions to extensive aerial surveys conducted over a two‐year period. Foraging radius distributions were significantly positively correlated with tracking data for all species except Manx shearwater. Correlations between foraging radius distributions and aerial survey data were also significant, but generally weaker than those for tracking data. Correlations between foraging radius distributions and aerial survey data were benchmarked against generalised additive models (GAMs) of the aerial survey data that included a range of environmental covariates. While GAM distributions had slightly higher correlations with aerial survey data, the results highlight that the foraging radius approach can be a useful and pragmatic approach for assessing breeding distributions for many seabird species. The approach is likely to have acceptable utility in complex, temporally variable ecosystems and when logistic and financial resources are limited.
Influence of the community of associates on Sirex noctilio brood production is contextual
Authors: Haavik Laurel J. , Slippers Bernard , Hurley Brett P. , Dodds Kevin J. , Scarr Taylor , Turgeon Jean J. , Allison Jeremy D.
Published: November 2019

1. Competition and predation are important components of biotic resistance, which helps define the invasibility of an ecosystem.

2. To search for evidence of biotic resistance to the European woodwasp, Sirex noctilio Fabricius, in North America, cages were used to experimentally exclude the community of associates (natural enemies and competitors) from infested logs. Specifically, the study assessed S. noctilio brood production in pine forests in Ontario and New York, where there was a rich existing community of associates (other wood borers, bark beetles and associated fungi, and parasitoids), and in South Africa, where siricid wasps and pines are not native and a similar associate community is not present. In addition, in Ontario, associates were excluded by size, and for different periods of time to identify important associates and their temporal dynamics.

3. Evidence was found that biotic factors limit S. noctilio in North America, whereby exclusion of natural enemies and competitors had a positive influence on the abundance or presence of S. noctilio brood in Ontario and New York. This influence was absent in South Africa.

4. It is unclear which member(s) of the associated insect community in North America were most important in limiting S. noctilio brood production, although they probably acted quickly (< 2 weeks) following S. noctilio oviposition.

5. Further study is needed to determine whether associates have limited S. noctilio populations in pine forests throughout northeastern North America, and which specific natural enemies and/or competitors are important.
Buprenorphine poisoning in children: a 10‐year‐experience of Marseille Poison Center
Authors: von Fabeck Katharina , Boulamery Audrey , Glaizal Mathieu , de Haro Luc , Simon Nicolas
Published: November 2019

Buprenorphine is a µ‐partial agonist and k‐antagonist acting on central opioid receptors. Patented for analgesia in 1968, buprenorphine has been used as opioid substitutive therapy since the 1990s, as well as methadone. The aim was to document pediatric poisoning, to discover the severity, and to evaluate the treatment with naloxone. All pediatric poisonings reported to the poison control center Marseille (France)—from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2018—were included. Analysis put value on gender, age, estimated quantity, symptoms and their delay, place of treatment, medical treatment, utilization of antidotes, severity of intoxications, and patients’ outcome. Fifty‐four infant poisonings with buprenorphine were recorded, doses varied between 1 and 36 mg, and children showed mainly neurological (somnolence, miosis…) and gastroenteric (vomiting) effects. Pulmonary effects were described for four children. According to the poisoning severity score, 8 intoxications were classified as ‘no symptoms or signs’, 37 as minor poisonings, 3 as moderate, none as severe or fatal and 6 were unknown. Medical care was required for 46 children, and four of them were treated with naloxone. Buprenorphine poisoning can cause neurological, gastroenteric, and respiratory symptoms. Even licking a tablet leads to intoxication because of maximal tablet’s absorption while placing it under the tongue. Hospital admission is necessary even at small doses. Naloxone was efficient in the four described cases. Parents have to be aware of the poisoning risk with buprenorphine. Recently, commercialized instantly dissolving formulations could cause more severe intoxications.
Standardized metrics are key for assessing drought severity
Authors: Slette Ingrid J. , Smith Melinda D. , Knapp Alan K. , Vicente‐Serrano Sergio M. , Camarero Jesus Julio , Beguería Santiago
Published: November 2019

This article is a response to Zang et al., 26, 322–324.
Geographically Weighted Cox Regression for Prostate Cancer Survival Data in Louisiana
Authors: Xue Yishu , Schifano Elizabeth D. , Hu Guanyu
Published: November 2019

The Cox proportional hazard model is one of the most popular tools in analyzing time‐to‐event data in public health studies. When outcomes observed in clinical data from different regions yield a varying pattern correlated with location, it is often of great interest to investigate spatially varying effects of covariates. In this paper, we propose a geographically weighted Cox regression model for sparse spatial survival data. In addition, a stochastic neighborhood weighting scheme is introduced at the county level. Theoretical properties of the proposed geographically weighted estimators are examined in detail. A model selection scheme based on the Takeuchi’s model robust information criteria is discussed. Extensive simulation studies are carried out to examine the empirical performance of the proposed methods. We further apply the proposed methodology to analyze real data on prostate cancer from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry for the state of Louisiana.
Evaluation of physicochemical characteristics, nutritional composition and antioxidant capacity of Chinese organic hawthorn berry (Crataegus pinnatifida)
Authors: Lou Xinman , Yuan Bo , Wang Lei , Xu Huaide , Hanna Milford , Yuan Long
Published: November 2019

Hawthorn berry (Crataegus pinnatifida), approved as ‘medicine food homology’ fruit by China’s National Health Commission, has been associated with positive effects on human health. In‐depth study of nutritional composition and antioxidant capacity can provide basic information on food value of Chinese organic frozen (OFHB)/freeze‐dried (OFDHB) hawthorn berries. Higher levels of dietary fibre, pectin, ascorbic acid, mineral and antioxidant capacity were found compared with some common fruits and other species hawthorn. Both OFHB and OFDHB samples have much higher content of potassium (1.02 × 104 and 9.73 × 103 mg kg−1) than sodium (54.23 and 42.31 mg kg−1). OFDHB had a more desirable ratio (2.68:1) of insoluble/soluble dietary fibre which is suitable for use as a food ingredient. Antioxidant capacity varied considerably depending on the part (peel > pulp) and reaching up to 577.5 µmol Trolox equivalent g−1. OFHB and OFDHB are excellent natural nutrient‐dense and antioxidant sources for dietary supplements and functional foods development.
Actin polymerization regulates recruitment of Nck to CD3εupon T‐cell receptor triggering
Authors: Wipa Piyamaporn , Paensuwan Pussadee , Ngoenkam Jatuporn , Woessner Nadine M. , Minguet Susana , Schamel Wolfgang W. , Pongcharoen Sutatip
Published: November 2019

Following T‐cell antigen receptor (TCR) engagement, rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton supports intracellular signal transduction and T‐cell activation. The non‐catalytic region of the tyrosine kinase (Nck) molecule is an adapter protein implicated in TCR‐induced actin polymerization. Further, Nck is recruited to the CD3εsubunit of the TCR upon TCR triggering. Here we examine the role of actin polymerization in the recruitment of Nck to the TCR. To this end, Nck binding to CD3εwas quantified in Jurkat cells using the proximity ligation assay. We show that inhibition of actin polymerization using cytochalasin D delayed the recruitment of Nck1 to the TCR upon TCR triggering. Interestingly, CD3εphosphorylation was also delayed. These findings suggest that actin polymerization promotes the recruitment of Nck to the TCR, enhancing downstream signaling, such as phosphorylation of CD3ε.
Does uncertainty spread vertically? A theory of multilayer newsvendors under asymmetric information
Authors: Yang Jiameng , Liu Zhiyong (John) , Lamb Steven W.
Published: November 2019

Using a vertically related multilayer newsvendors framework, this paper analyzes the impacts of market uncertainties and asymmetric information between firms at successive stages of a supply chain on their optimal stocking (and/or pricing) decisions. The asymmetric information along the supply chain effectively transmits the downstream uncertainty backward to the preceding stages of the supply chain. Our results imply that for industries in which there are lead times and asymmetric information in multiple successive stages along the supply chain, it is essentially important for the upstream firms to study the market conditions facing the vertically related downstream firms, and it is important for them to design incentive‐compatible mechanisms to facilitate efficient information sharing among vertically related entities. In these industries, the entities might also have stronger incentives to invest in lead time reduction and in information acquisition, if such options exist. Our framework offers a good starting point for a more comprehensive study in the future on the interactions among and the impact of differential lead times across successive stages in supply chains.
Cross‐cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire to the Spanish language in head and neck surgery
Authors: Restrepo Santiago , Rojas Santiago , Sanabria Alvaro
Published: November 2019

External appearance is the main aesthetic outcome in patients who undergo surgical procedures. Scars located in exposed areas, such as the neck and face, are important for patients. There are at least eight instruments that are used to evaluate postoperative scars, but few fulfil standard methodological conditions. The Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ) was designed and validated using psychometric methodology. However, this scale has not been translated or validated in the Spanish language. The aim of this study was to undergo a cross‐cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the PSAQ scale to the Spanish language in patients who underwent head and neck surgery. We followed The Professional Society for Health Economics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) guidelines for the translation and validation of health‐related scales. Forward and back translations were made by independent translators. We included adult patients who underwent thyroidectomy, parathyroidectomy, parotidectomy, and neck dissection. For the psychometric validation, we used a principal axis exploratory factor analysis with oblimin rotation. A reliability test involving Cronbachs alpha and the item‐total correlation was performed and for the convergent/concurrent validity, we selected the Spanish version of the Vancouver Scar Scale. A total of 180 patients were recruited. Factor analysis showed a five‐factor solution. Cronbachs alpha for the subscales was >0.7. The comparison between the PSAQ appearance subscale and the VSS demonstrated a high correlation (rho = − 0.89). In a sample of 62 patients, the test‐retest evaluation showed high correlation (0.74‐0.99). Our study supports the Spanish version of the PSAQ as a valid, reliable, and reproducible tool to assess the perception and impact of neck scars in Spanish‐speaking patients who undergo head and neck surgery.
Bats as predators at the nests of tropical forest birds
Authors: Perrella Daniel F. , Zima Paulo V. Q. , Ribeiro‐Silva Lais , Biagolini Carlos H. , Carmignotto Ana Paula , Galetti Pedro M. , Francisco Mercival R.
Published: November 2019

Nest predation is one of the main causes of bird mortality, and the development of nest anti‐predatory defenses can mold many aspects of bird evolution. Here we report that bats can attack nests in incubation and nestling stages in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil. Although other types of interactions between birds and bats have been reported, including predation of adult individuals and the co‐occurrence in cavity nests, bats may have been underestimated as nest predators. The combination of flying and olfactory skills makes bats functionally different compared to other predators, opening new perspectives on the interpretation of nesting‐birds anti‐predatory strategies. They represented 8% of all recorded potential predations in the bird community studied, being more important than reptiles, and were responsible for 33% of nest losses for at least one bird species. Our data suggest the potential for nest depredation by bats to be an important selective factor in shaping anti‐predatory strategies of nesting birds. Then, the use of devices capable to detect bats will be essential for reliable interpretations of birds nest defense mechanisms in future works.
Beyond Sovereign Reason: Issues and Contestations in Contemporary African Identity
Authors: Eze Michael Onyebuchi , van der Wal Katja
Published: November 2019

Issues of collective identity discourses and integration in Africa often face competing national and primordial identities. We explore multilayered integrative mechanisms that have become constitutive of collective African identity. We examine the nature of this identity taking a modern constructivist view of Africa's encounter with Europe. But we also address basic anthropological concerns, focusing on present and future prospects and seeking to understand how this identity is shaped by international politics or synchronized with local political units.
Collective Identities and the Integration of Core State Powers: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Kuhn Theresa , Nicoli Francesco
Published: November 2019

This special issue explores the relationship between collective identities and the integration of core state powers, that is, the delegation of powers to a centralized institution in policy areas that are essential for the functioning of the modern state. In this introductory article we present the main conceptualizations of the contributions to the special issue that define our understanding of collective identities and core state powers. We discuss the multi‐level nature of collective identities and we discuss theoretical expectations over the link between collective identities and core state powers. Finally, we briefly present each of the contributions to the issue and discuss how they relate to the broad research goals, the special issue and to each other.
A Europe of Creditors and Debtors: Three Orders of Debt Relations in European Integration
Authors: Losada Fernando
Published: November 2019

This article proposes a debt‐based narrative able to explain both structural and substantive changes in European integration. The narrative results from a study of the dynamics of three different sources of external debt —cross‐border trade, sovereign debt and direct debt relations between member states– in the context of the successive stages of macroeconomic integration. The outcome is the identification of three cumulative orders of debt relations that can reveal the main features of the concrete constellation of power corresponding to each of those stages. Hence, cross‐border trade was decisive during the decades of monetary cooperation. Once the European Monetary Union was agreed in Maastricht, sovereign debt, as perceived by market actors, played the key role. Finally, since the sovereign debt crisis direct debt relations between member states are essential. The EU institutional system has accordingly adapted to these different constellations and nowadays guarantees the full repayment of debts to fellow member states.
Access to European Union Agencies: Usual Suspects or Balanced Interest Representation in Open and Closed Consultations?
Authors: Arras Sarah , Beyers Jan
Published: November 2019

To facilitate stakeholder representation, European Union (EU) agencies use a range of procedures, including closed consultation or advisory committees and open or public consultations. For analysing what kind of stakeholders gain access to advisory committees, we compare these two particular procedures. Two theoretical perspectives guide this analysis. The first is a resource‐based account, which emphasizes informational needs and leads to the expectation that not only regulated interests but also EU‐level associations and European Commission expert group members will gain representation through closed consultations. The second is a norm‐based perspective that stresses the importance for agencies to establish a credible reputation, leading them to balance interest representation. A systematic comparison of stakeholders represented in agency committee with those participating in open consultations demonstrates that regulated interests have no systematic advantage in gaining access to closed consultations. Instead, closed consultations may diversify interest representation and facilitate the involvement of non‐business interests.
Herbal medicine in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Tan Niandi , Gwee Kok Ann , Tack Jan , Zhang Mengyu , Li Yuwen , Chen Minhu , Xiao Yinglian
Published: November 2019

Background and Aims

The efficacy of herbal medicines (HMs) for functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia (FD) and functional constipation (FC) is controversial. A systematic review with meta‐analysis was conducted to determine their effectiveness for FGIDs.

Methods

We searched the following electronic databases till July 2019 with English language restriction: The Cochrane Library, EMBASE and PUBMED. Randomized double‐blind controlled trials of HMs compared with placebo or conventional pharmacological drugs for adult FGIDs patients were included.

Results

In total, 49 trials involving 7396 participants with FGIDs were included. The risk of bias was low in 9, unclear in 36, and high in 4 trials. More than 33 different herbal formulae were tested. HMs demonstrated statistically significant benefits for symptom improvement compared with placebo in 46 trials (RR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.48–1.88). When compared with conventional pharmacological therapy in 5 trials, HMs were found to be non‐inferior (RR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.03–1.18). The number of trials with regards to FD, IBS and FC were 19, 23 and 7 respectively. Subgroup analysis found that HMs were better than placebo in alleviating symptoms for FD (RR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.32–1.69), IBS (RR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.32–1.97) and FC (RR = 3.83, 95% CI 2.26–6.50). HMs tended to have more patients with adverse events than placebo, but similar to conventional pharmacological drugs.

Conclusions

Our findings provide a positive signal for HMs as a potentially well‐tolerated and effective treatment for FGIDs, deserving further examination in high‐quality trials.
Duodenal and rectal mucosal microbiota related to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Yang Min , Zhang Lei , Hong Gaichao , Li Ying , Li Gangping , Qian Wei , Xiong Hanhua , Bai Tao , Song Jun , Hou Xiaohua
Published: November 2019

Background and Aim

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) has been proposed as an etiologic factor in irritable bowel syndrome, particularly the diarrhea‐predominant subtype (IBS‐D). We aimed to identify potential intestinal microbial pattern in IBS‐D patients with SIBO.

Methods

Diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome patients fulfilling Rome III criteria were recruited and randomly divided into an exploratory cohort (57 cases) and a validation cohort (20 cases). SIBO was identified according to standard glucose hydrogen breath test. For 16S rRNA gene sequencing, samples of duodenal mucosa, duodenal fluid, rectal mucosa, and fresh feces were collected and performed. The α and β diversity, as well as differences in microbial composition and function, in SIBO+ and SIBO− IBS‐D subjects were evaluated.

Results

The microbial diversity and composition obviously differed between SIBO+ and SIBO− IBS‐D in duodenal and rectal mucosa but not in duodenal fluid and fresh feces. For rectal mucosal microbiota, it displayed markedly reduced aerobe and Gram‐negative bacteria and increased facultative anaerobe and Gram‐positive bacteria, moreover, altered functions of microbial metabolism in SIBO+ IBS‐D. Significantly higher rectal mucosa‐related microbial dysbiosis index was observed in SIBO+ IBS‐D, and a cut‐off value at −0.37 had a sensitivity of 56.55% and specificity of 90.91% to identify the SIBO in IBS‐D subjects.

Conclusions

Mucosal microbiota, rather than luminal bacteria, has a more apparent dysbiosis in SIBO+ IBS‐D patients relative to those without SIBO. Rectal mucosa‐associated microbiota may act as a potential predictor of SIBO in IBS‐D patients.
Post‐ruminal non‐protein nitrogen supplementation as a strategy to improve fibre digestion and N efficiency in the ruminant
Authors: P. C.de Carvalho Isabela , Doelman John , Martín‐Tereso Javier
Published: November 2019

The ruminant is able to transform plant fibres and non‐protein nitrogen (NPN) into edible foods for human consumption. In an effort towards improving our understanding of this process, we sought to challenge convention and examine how the source, amount and site of NPN delivery in the gastrointestinal tract of the ruminant may affect fibre digestibility, rumen stability and N metabolism. In the first study presented here, we used four ruminally cannulated non‐lactating heifers in a Latin square design to infuse 59 g/days of N in the form of ammonia (A) or urea (U) into either the rumen (R) or the abomasum (A). We found that intake was higher (p = .03) for animals receiving supplementary NPN as urea compared with ammonia. In addition, abomasally infused urea (UA) improved fibre fermentation by 9.4% (p = .05) and decreased ruminal pH fluctuations (lower slope in the cumulative pH parameters, p = .04) when compared with the same amount of urea infused ruminally (UR). In a second study, using the same group of heifers, we infused 50 or 150 g/day of urea into the rumen (UR50 and UR150) or 150 g of urea in the abomasum (UA150) or 50 g in the rumen and 100 g in the abomasum (URA150). Fibre digestion was improved by 4% (p = .02) when the same dose of urea was infused into the abomasum compared with the rumen, while estimated microbial protein production and N efficiency were not different between a low rumen dose and high post‐ruminal dose of urea. Collectively, these studies provide insight into the viability of post‐ruminal NPN supplementation as a strategy to improve fibre digestion and NPN inclusion in the ruminant diet.
Diversity in Xanthophyll Cycle Pigments Content and Related Nonphotochemical Quenching (NPQ) Among Microalgae: Implications for Growth Strategy and Ecology
Authors: Lacour Thomas , Babin Marcel , Lavaud Johann
Published: November 2019

Xanthophyll cycle‐related nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ), which is present in most photoautotrophs, allows dissipation of excess light energy. Xanthophyll cycle‐related NPQ depends principally on xanthophyll cycle pigments composition and their effective involvement in NPQ. Xanthophyll cycle‐related NPQ is tightly controlled by environmental conditions in a species‐/strain‐specific manner. These features are especially relevant in microalgae living in a complex and highly variable environment. The goal of this study was to perform a comparative assessment of NPQ ecophysiologies across microalgal taxa in order to underline the specific involvement of NPQ in growth adaptations and strategies. We used both published results and data acquired in our laboratory to understand the relationships between growth conditions (irradiance, temperature, and nutrient availability), xanthophyll cycle composition, and xanthophyll cycle pigments quenching efficiency in microalgae from various taxa. We found that in diadinoxanthin‐containing species, the xanthophyll cycle pigment pool is controlled by energy pressure in all species. At any given energy pressure, however, the diatoxanthin content is higher in diatoms than in other diadinoxanthin‐containing species. XC pigments quenching efficiency is species‐specific and decreases with acclimation to higher irradiances. We found a clear link between the natural light environment of species/ecotypes and quenching efficiency amplitude. The presence of diatoxanthin or zeaxanthin at steady state in all species examined at moderate and high irradiances suggests that cells maintain a light‐harvesting capacity in excess to cope with potential decrease in light intensity.
Long‐term impact of tylosin on fecal microbiota and fecal bile acids of healthy dogs
Authors: Manchester Alison C. , Webb Craig B. , Blake Amanda B. , Sarwar Fatima , Lidbury Jonathan A. , Steiner Jörg M. , Suchodolski Jan S.
Published: November 2019

Background

Tylosin is commonly prescribed to dogs with diarrhea. Orally administered antibiotics may alter the intestinal microbiota, which is responsible for crucial key bile acid (BA) biotransformation reactions.

Objectives

To prospectively evaluate the impact of tylosin administration on fecal microbiota and unconjugated bile acids (UBAs) over time.

Animals

Sixteen healthy adult dogs.

Methods

Prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial. Dogs were randomized to receive 20 mg/kg of tylosin or a placebo capsule PO q12h for 7 days while undergoing daily fecal scoring. Fecal samples were collected on days 0, 7, 21, and 63. The microbiota was assessed using quantitative PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Unconjugated BAs were assessed using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS).

Results

Fecal scores were unchanged during placebo and tylosin administration. In the placebo group, no significant changes were observed in fecal microbiota or UBA concentrations. Day 7 samples from tylosin‐exposed dogs exhibited decreased bacterial diversity (observed species, Chao1, Shannon, P < .001) characterized by decreases in anaerobes Fusobacteriaceae (linear discriminant analysis [LDA] score, 5.03) and Veillonellaceae (LDA score, 4.85). Primary UBA concentrations were increased at day 21 (median, [range]; 7.42, [0.67‐18.77] μg/kg; P = .04) and day 63 (3.49 [0‐28.43] μg/kg; P = .02) compared to day 0 (.14 [.03‐1.19] μg/kg) in dogs receiving tylosin. At day 63, bacterial taxa were not significantly different compared to day 0, but the extent of microbial recovery was individualized.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Tylosin causes fecal dysbiosis in healthy dogs with corresponding shifts in fecal UBAs. Changes did not uniformly resolve after discontinuation of tylosin.
Boron: an essential element for vascular plants
Authors: Wimmer Monika A. , Abreu Isidro , Bell Richard W. , Bienert Manuela D. , Brown Patrick H. , Dell Bernard , Fujiwara Toru , Goldbach Heiner E. , Lehto Tarja , Mock Hans‐Peter , von Wirén Nicolaus , Bassil Elias , Bienert Gerd P.
Published: November 2019

See also the Commentary on this article by McGrath, 226: 1225–1227.
Turf wars in government administration: Interdepartmental cooperation in theEuropeanCommission
Authors: Finke Daniel
Published: November 2019

One challenge for government administration is to reap the benefits of specialization while minimizing its negative side effects. In this article, I study the factors that motivate departments to contribute to the joint formulation of public policies. I derive testable hypotheses that discriminate between two competing motivations for interdepartmental cooperation. If department managers are concerned for the quality of public policy, I expect cooperation to be efficient. If, by contrast, departments compete for administrative turf, I expect cooperation to be inefficient and resources to be wasted. I test those hypotheses by studying all policy proposals adopted and published by the European Commission between 2015 and 2017—a total of approximately 4,000 cases. For politically salient proposals, I find that departments are more likely to contribute if they expect competing departments to become active, too. By contrast, the preparation of technical, non‐salient proposals is left to the most specialized departments. Overall, my findings suggest that interdepartmental cooperation in the European Commission is significantly motivated by DGs' competition for administrative turf.
Ethylene mediates the branching of the jasmonate‐induced flavonoid biosynthesis pathway by suppressing anthocyanin biosynthesis in red Chinese pear fruits
Authors: Ni Junbei , Zhao Yuan , Tao Ruiyan , Yin Lei , Gao Ling , Strid Åke , Qian Minjie , Li Juncai , Li Yuanjun , Shen Jiaqi , Teng Yuanwen , Bai Songling
Published: November 2019

Flavonoid accumulation in most fruits is enhanced by ethylene and jasmonate. However, little is known about the hormone functions related to red pear fruit coloration or their combined effects and potential underlying mechanisms. Various treatments were used to investigate the flavonoid metabolite profile and pear transcriptome to verify the effects of ethylene and jasmonate on flavonoid biosynthesis in red pear fruits as well as the mechanism behind this. Ethylene inhibits anthocyanin biosynthesis in red Chinese pear fruits, whereas jasmonate increases anthocyanin and flavone/isoflavone biosyntheses. The branching of the jasmonate‐induced flavonoid biosynthesis pathway is determined by ethylene. Co‐expression network and Mfuzz analyses revealed 4,368 candidate transcripts. Additionally, ethylene suppresses PpMYB10 and PpMYB114 expression via TF repressors, ultimately decreasing anthocyanin biosynthesis. Jasmonate induces anthocyanin accumulation through transcriptional or post‐translational regulation of TFs‐like MYB and bHLH in the absence of ethylene. However, jasmonate induces ethylene biosynthesis and the associated signalling pathway in pear, thereby decreasing anthocyanin production, increasing the availability of the precursors for flavone/isoflavone biosynthesis and enhancing deep yellow fruit coloration. We herein present new phenotypes and fruit coloration regulatory patterns controlled by jasmonate and ethylene, and confirm that the regulation of fruit coloration is complex.
A matter of life and death: Molecular, physiological, and environmental regulation of seed longevity
Authors: Zhou Wenguan , Chen Feng , Luo Xiaofeng , Dai Yujia , Yang Yingzeng , Zheng Chuan , Yang Wenyu , Shu Kai
Published: November 2019

Both seed germination and early seedling establishment are important biological processes in a plant's lifecycle. Seed longevity is a key trait in agriculture, which directly influences seed germination and ultimately determines crop productivity and hence food security. Numerous studies have demonstrated that seed deterioration is regulated by complex interactions between diverse endogenous genetically controlled factors and exogenous environmental cues, including temperature, relative humidity, and oxygen partial pressure during seed storage. The endogenous factors, including the chlorophyll concentration, the structure of the seed coat, the balance of phytohormones, the concentration of reactive oxygen species, the integrity of nucleic acids and proteins and their associated repair systems, are also involved in the control of seed longevity. A precise understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying seed longevity is becoming a hot topic in plant molecular biology. In this review, we describe recent research into the regulation of seed longevity and the interactions between the various environmental and genetic factors. Based on this, the current state‐of‐play regarding seed longevity regulatory networks will be presented, particularly with respect to agricultural seed storage, and the research challenges to be faced in the future will be discussed.
Biochemical study of the effect of stress conditions on the mandelonitrile‐associated salicylic acid biosynthesis in peach
Authors: Bernal‐Vicente A. , Petri C. , Hernández J. A. , Diaz‐Vivancos P.
Published: November 2019

Salicylic acid (SA) plays a central role in plant responses to environmental stresses. In a recent study, we suggested a third pathway for SA biosynthesis from mandelonitrile (MD) in peach plants. This pathway is an alternative to the phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase pathway and links SA biosynthesis and cyanogenesis. In the present work, using biochemical approaches, we studied the effect of salt stress and Plum pox virus (PPV) infection on this proposed SA biosynthetic pathway from MD.

Peach plants were submitted to salt stress and Plum pox virus (PPV) infection. We studied the levels of SA and its intermediates/precursors (phenylalanine, MD, amygdalin and benzoic acid) in in vitro shoots. Moreover, in peach seedlings, we analysed the content of H2O2‐related enzymes, SA and the stress‐related hormones abscisic acid and jasmonic acid.

We showed that the contribution of this SA biosynthetic pathway from MD to the total SA pool does not seem to be important under the stress conditions assayed. Nevertheless, MD treatment not only affected the SA content, but also had a pleiotropic effect on abscisic acid and jasmonic acid levels. Furthermore, MD modulates the antioxidative metabolism via SA‐dependent or ‐independent redox‐related signalling pathways.

Even though the proposed SA biosynthetic pathway seems to be functional under stress conditions, MD, and hence cyanogenic glycosides, may be operating more broadly than by influencing SA pathways and signalling. Thus, the physiological function of the proposed SA biosynthetic pathway remains to be elucidated.
Optical constants of polycrystalline Ni from 0.06 to 6.0 eV at 300 K
Authors: Abadizaman Farzin , Zollner Stefan
Published: November 2019

Using spectroscopic ellipsometry from 0.06 to 6.0 eV at room temperature, the authors determined the optical constants (complex dielectric function, refractive index, and optical conductivity) of bulk cold-rolled polycrystalline Ni. To reduce the thickness of surface overlayers, the sample was heated in ultrahigh vacuum at 750 K for 6 h and then kept in vacuum during measurements. The authors analyze the optical constants using three alternative but mutually exclusive methods: they write the dielectric function as a multiband sum or product of Drude and Lorentz oscillators or with a Drude model with a frequency-dependent scattering rate and plasma frequency. Below 1 eV, they find significant contributions from both d-intraband transitions and free carriers.