bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatial heterogeneity stabilizes predator–prey interactions at the microscale while patch connectivity controls their outcome
Authors: Petrenko Margarita , Friedman Shmuel P. , Fluss Ronen , Pasternak Zohar , Huppert Amit , Jurkevitch Edouard 
Published: December 2019

SummaryNatural landscapes are both fragmented and heterogeneous, affecting the distribution of organisms, and their interactions. While predation in homogeneous environments increases the probability of population extinction, fragmentation/heterogeneity promotes coexistence and enhances community stability as shown by experimentation with animals and microorganisms, and supported by theory. Patch connectivity can modulate such effects but how microbial predatory interactions are affected by water‐driven connectivity is unknown. In soil, patch habitability by microorganisms, and their connectivity depend upon the water saturation degree (SD). Here, using the obligate bacterial predatorBdellovibrio bacteriovorus, and aBurkholderiaprey, we show that soil spatial heterogeneity profoundly affects predatory dynamics, enhancing long‐term co‐existence of predator and prey in a SD‐threshold dependent‐manner. However, as patches and connectors cannot be distinguished in these soil matrices, metapopulations cannot be invoked to explain the dynamics of increased persistence. Using a set of experiments combined with statistical and physical models we demonstrate and quantify how under full connectivity, predation is independent of water content but depends on soil microstructure characteristics. In contrast, the SD below which predation is largely impaired corresponds to a threshold below which the water network collapses and water connectivity breaks down, preventing the bacteria to move within the soil matrix.
The relation between time spent reading and reading comprehension throughout the life course
Authors: Locher Franziska , Pfost Maximilian 
Published: December 2019

BackgroundIn the present paper, we investigated the association between time spent reading and reading comprehension throughout the lifespan. According to the Matthew effect (or rich‐get‐richer and poor‐get‐poorer) model, interindividual differences in reading‐related skills between poor and average readers become wider as individuals grow older. Furthermore, the model states that these differences may be caused by different reading habits (i.e., the amount of time spent reading). Less competent readers tend to read less and therefore show less improvement in their reading skills. Competent readers tend to read more and therefore show greater improvement in their reading skills. Therefore, we propose that the correlation between time spent reading and reading comprehension should increase as people grow older.MethodTo test this hypothesis, we analysed data from the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS). We used data from four cohorts (N = 28,795) with an age range from preadolescence (Grade 5) to later adulthood (>55 years).ResultsOur results showed a medium‐sized correlation between leisure‐time reading and reading comprehension for students attending secondary school (β ~ 0.20). Contrary to our expectations, the correlations decreased with age and reached a stable low level (β ~ 0.07) in adulthood. However, for adults, occupation‐related reading predicted reading comprehension (β = 0.13–0.23).ConclusionAccording to our results, reading should be viewed as a process that changes throughout the lifespan. Furthermore, results and implications from previous studies on the relation between time spent reading and reading skills from research conducted on school students might not be generalisable to adults. With respect to the results of the present study, we might restrict the validity of the Matthew effect in reading to school students and young adolescents.
Effect of oxidative stress on AIF‐mediated apoptosis and bovine muscle tenderness during postmortem aging
Authors: Chen Cheng , Zhang Jiaying , Guo Zhaobin , Shi Xixiong , Zhang Yubin , Zhang Li , Yu Qunli , Han Ling 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThis study aimed to explore the effect exerted by oxidative stress on apoptosis‐inducing factors (AIF)‐mediated apoptosis and bovine muscle tenderness during postmortem aging. We investigated the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, mitochondrial membrane permeability, AIF expression level, nucleus apoptosis, shear force, myofibril fragmentation index, pH, and energy level. According to the results, a rise in ROS content was accompanied by the rise in mitochondrial membrane permeability from 6 to 72 hr. In the meantime, the AIF expression in mitochondria was downregulated significantly within 72 hr. However, samples treated with N‐acetylcysteine had significantly lower ROS content (6 to 72 hr) and mitochondrial membrane permeability (12 to 72 hr) than the control group. Moreover, during postmortem aging, the variations in AIF levels in mitochondria were closely associated with meat tenderization and nucleus apoptosis. These findings demonstrated that oxidative stress induced by ROS significantly promoted AIF release from mitochondria by enhancing the mitochondrial membrane permeability, and the released AIF mediated nucleus apoptosis that further enhanced bovine muscle tenderness. Besides, results suggest that in the early stage, the environmental factors (ATP content and pH) significantly decreased (0 to 72 hr), whereas ROS‐induced oxidative stress had no significant effect on environmental factors. These observations further suggested that during postmortem aging, the decrease of pH and ATP consumption are required by AIF release. We conclude that ROS‐induced oxidative stress and internal environment are vital for meat tenderization through the regulation of AIF‐mediated apoptosis pathway.Practical ApplicationROS‐induced oxidative stress contributes to bovine muscle tenderization by promoting cell apoptosis. It is likely to lay a theoretical foundation for developing innovative tenderization techniques by altering the internal oxidation environment of postmortem muscles.
Transition to high‐dose or strong opioids: a population‐based study of people initiating opioids in Australia
Authors: Lalic Samanta , Gisev Natasa , Bell J. Simon , Ilomäki Jenni 
Published: December 2019

AbstractBackground and aimsStrong and high‐dose opioids are associated with opioid overdose and death. The objective of this study was to determine the rate and predictors of transitioning to high‐dose or strong opioids among people initiating opioids.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingAustralia.ParticipantsPeople initiating opioid analgesics from July 2013 to January 2018 were identified from a random 10% sample of Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme eligible population.MeasurementsHazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for the predictors of escalating to ≥ 50 mg oral morphine equivalents (OMEs)/day (cohort 1); ≥ 90 mg OMEs/day (cohort 2) and transitioning from weak opioids to strong opioids (cohort 3) over 12 months of follow‐up. Predictors included age, sex, number of comorbidities, history of depression, prior treatment for cancer and selected other medication use.FindingsIn total, 861 691 people initiated opioids at average doses < 50 mg OMEs/day (cohort 1), 874 401 at < 90 mg OMEs/day (cohort 2) and 603 884 initiated weak opioids (cohort 3). Overall, 1.4% of people escalated to doses ≥ 50 mg OMEs/day, 0.8% to doses ≥ 90 mg OMEs/day and 7.3% transitioned to strong opioids. The strongest predictors of transitioning included prior treatment for cancer [cohort 1: HR = 3.19, 95% CI = 3.00–3.40; cohort 2: HR = 4.19, 95% CI = 3.90–4.51; cohort 3: HR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.95–2.18] and age ≥ 75 years (cohort 1: HR = 3.04, 95% CI = 2.73–3.38; cohort 2: HR = 2.51, 95% CI = 2.17–2.89; cohort 3: HR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.80–1.96). Females transitioned to high doses and strong opioids less rapidly than males (cohort 1: HR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.76–0.82; cohort 2: HR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.66–0.73; cohort 3: HR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.93–0.96).ConclusionsIn Australia, more than one in every 13 people initiating weak opioids transition to strong opioids. By extrapolation, more than 26 000 Australian adults initiating opioids escalate to high doses each year. People with cancer treatment history, older people and males transition to strong and high‐dose opioids more rapidly than others.
Antimicrobial effectiveness of grape seed extract against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm: A Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy analysis
Authors: Fiallos Nicole de Mello , Cecchin Doglas , de Lima Carolina Oliveira , Hirata Raphael , Silva Emmanuel João Nogueira Leal , Sassone Luciana Moura 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThis study evaluated the antimicrobial effectiveness of 6.5% Vitis vinifera grape seed extract (GSE) against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Saline solution (SS), 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) were used for comparison. Dentin discs were inoculated with E. faecalis strain establishing a 3‐week‐old biofilm. Discs (n = 10) were exposed to 5.25% NaOCl, 2% CHX, 6.5% GSE and SS (negative control) for 10 min. Discs were stained with the fluorescent LIVE/DEAD‐BacLight™ dye and analysed using CLSM. The proportion of dead cells in biofilm was analysed using one‐way anova and Tukey tests (P < 0.05). A higher proportion of dead cells was found in GSE group compared with CHX and SS (P < 0.05). NaOCl group was associated with the highest proportion of dead cells (P < 0.05). GSE presented antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis; however, NaOCl was the most effective irrigant solution. GSE was more effective than CHX and SS.
Laser‐assisted diagnosis of symptomatic cracks in teeth with cracked tooth: A 4‐year in‐vivo follow‐up study
Authors: Sapra Ashita , Darbar Arun , George Roy 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to determine whether a near‐infrared diode laser could be used as an adjunct to help identify and localise symptomatic cracks in patients with cracked tooth. An 810‐nm diode laser at 1 W continuous wave energy with a 200 micro‐fibre tip was used to scan the offending tooth. Crack identified during the laser scan was removed, restored and reviewed after four weeks and after 4 years. The laser was able to significantly (P = 0.0001) identify suspected cracked teeth from non‐cracked control teeth. Of the twelve patients examined, ten participants experienced discomfort as the laser passed over a crack line. At 4‐week and 4‐year recall, a majority of the ten treated patients responded positively to the management of crack. This study showed that diode laser could be an adjunctive tool for early detection and management of symptomatic cracks with the possibility of improving long‐term survival.
Effectiveness and safety of the conversion to MeltDose® extended‐release tacrolimus from other formulations of tacrolimus in stable kidney transplant patients: A retrospective study
Authors: Sánchez Fructuoso Ana , Ruiz Juan Carlos , Franco Antonio , Diekmann Fritz , Redondo Dolores , Calviño Jesús , Serra Nuria , Aladrén María José , Cigarrán Secundino , Manonelles Ana , Ramos Ana , Gómez Gonzalo , González Posada José Manuel , Andrés Amado , Beneyto Isabel , Muñiz Andrés López , Perelló Manel , Lauzurica Ricardo 
Published: December 2019

AbstractTacrolimus is the cornerstone of immunosuppressive therapy after kidney transplantation. Its narrow therapeutic window mandates serum level strict monitoring and dose adjustments to ensure the optimal risk‐benefit balance. This observational retrospective study analyzed the effectiveness and safety of conversion from twice‐daily immediate‐release tacrolimus (IR‐Tac) or once‐daily prolonged‐release tacrolimus (PR‐Tac) to the recent formulation once‐daily MeltDose® extended‐release tacrolimus (LCP‐Tac) in 365 stable kidney transplant recipients. We compared kidney function three months before and three months after the conversion. Three months after conversion, the total daily dose was reduced ~35% (P < .0001), and improved bioavailability and stable serum LCP‐Tac concentrations were observed. There was no increase in the number of patients requiring tacrolimus dose adjustments after conversion. Renal function was unaltered, and no cases of BPAR were reported. Reports of tremors, as collected in the clinical histories for each patient, decreased from pre‐conversion (20.8%) to post‐conversion (11.8%, P < .0001). LCP‐Tac generated a cost reduction of 63% compared with PR‐Tac. In conclusion, the conversion strategy to LCP‐Tac from other tacrolimus formulations in stable kidney transplant patients showed safety and effectiveness in a real‐world setting, confirming the data from RCTs. The specific pharmacokinetic properties of LCP‐Tac could be potentially advantageous in patients with tacrolimus‐related adverse events.
How did a lower drink‐drive limit affect bar trade and drinking practices? A qualitative study of how alcohol retailers experienced a change in policy
Authors: Sumpter Colin , Mohan Andrea , McKell Jennifer , Lewsey James , Emslie Carol , Fitzgerald Niamh 
Published: December 2019

AbstractIntroduction and AimsReducing the legal drink‐drive limit from 0.08% to 0.05% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can reduce road traffic accidents and deaths if properly enforced. Reduced limits may be opposed by alcohol retail and manufacturing industries on the basis of commercial impact. Our aim was to qualitatively explore how a reduction in the drink‐drive limit from 0.08% to 0.05% BAC in Scotland, was experienced by bar owners or managers, including any resultant changes in customer drinking or business practice. This is the first study of this type.Design and MethodsSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with 16 owners and managers of on‐trade premises in Scotland in 2018, approximately three years after the drink‐drive limit was reduced. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsMost participants reported no long‐term financial impact on their business, but a few, mainly from rural areas, reported some reduction in alcohol sales. Observed drinking changes included fewer people drinking after work or leaving premises earlier on weekdays. Adaptations to businesses included improving the range of no/low‐alcohol drinks and food offered. Changes such as these were seen as key to minimising economic impact.Discussion and ConclusionsOpposition to legislative measures that impact on commercial interests is often strong and receives significant public attention. This study found that Scottish businesses that adapted to the drink‐drive limit change reported little long‐term economic impact. These findings are of international relevance as potential BAC limit reductions in several other jurisdictions remain the subject of debate, including regarding the impact on business.
Combined CO2 laser and photodynamic therapy enhances the efficacy of treatment of basal cell carcinomas
Authors: Ferrara Francesca , Lacava Rossella , Barisani Alessia , Messori Stefano , Patrizi Annalisa , Bardazzi Federico , Vaccari Sabina 
Published: December 2019

SummaryBackground and objectivesIn selected cases, conventional photodynamic therapy (C‐PDT) is a valid alternative to surgery for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC). However, it is limited to superficial BCCs. Pretreatment of BCCs with ablative lasers may enhance its efficacy. We evaluated the C‐PDT and CO2 laser combination therapy for the treatment of superficial and nodular BCCs.Patients and methodsIn this prospective, interventional, monocentric study, patients affected by BCC were treated with CO2 laser therapy, using a continuous superpulsed CO2 laser for nodular BCCs and a fractional CO2 laser for superficial BCCs. All patients were subsequently treated with photodynamic therapy using methyl aminolevulinate cream and an Aktilite CL128® (Galderma) lamp.Results32 patients (20 males, 12 females) aged from 45 to 96 years (with a total of 181 BCCs) were treated using a CO2 laser combined with C‐PDT. A 100 % cure rate was achieved at three months, with no signs of relapse in 97.2 % of the cases during the mean follow‐up period (10.7 months, range 4 to 18 months). We observed mild adverse reactions and good aesthetic results.ConclusionsWe recommend this combination therapy in selected cases, based on its high efficacy, good aesthetic results and few side effects.
Thirteen‐year trends in the prevalence of diabetes in an urban region of Switzerland: a population‐based study
Authors: de Mestral C. , Stringhini S. , Guessous I. , Jornayvaz F. R. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractAimTo assess trends in prevalence of total and diagnosed diabetes, and in the probability of detecting undiagnosed diabetes in the Swiss population.MethodsThe Bus Santé study is an annual cross‐sectional study of adults residing in Geneva state, Switzerland. We included 8532 participants (51% women) from the years 2005 to 2017, when fasting plasma glucose data became available. Total diabetes was defined as the sum of diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, while diagnosed diabetes was defined as having a previous diagnosis, and undiagnosed diabetes as having fasting plasma glucose level of ≥7 mmol/l and no previous diagnosis. We calculated the probability of finding undiagnosed diabetes among participants without a diagnosis. We examined for linear and quadratic trends, grouping survey years into five survey periods.ResultsIn total, 711 diabetes cases were identified over 13 years. The age‐ and gender‐standardized prevalence of total diabetes decreased between the periods 2005–2009 and 2012–2013 from 9.6% (95% CI 8.3, 10.9) to 7.1% (95% CI 5.8, 8.4), but increased to 8.6% (95% CI 7.3%, 9.9%) by 2016–2017 (P‐quadratic <0.01). For diagnosed diabetes, the prevalence decreased between 2005–2009 and 2014–2015 from 8.3% (95% CI 7.0%, 9.5%) to 6.1% (95% CI 5.0%, 7.2%), but increased slightly again to 7.0% (95% CI 5.8%, 8.2%) by 2016–2017 (P‐quadratic = 0.01). Men generally had a higher prevalence of total and diagnosed diabetes than women, except in 2016–2017, when the prevalence of total diabetes was 9.5% (95% CI 7.6, 11.5) among men and 7.7% (95% CI 6.0, 9.5) among women (P >0.05). The probability of finding undetected diabetes among participants without a diabetes diagnosis decreased slightly between 2005–2009 and 2012–2013 from 1.5% (95% CI 0.9, 2.0) to 1.0% (95% CI 0.5, 1.5), but increased afterwards to 1.7% (95% CI 1.0, 2.3) by 2016–2017 (P‐quadratic = 0.06); in 2016–2017, it was 2.6% (95% CI 1.5, 3.7) among men and 0.7% (95% CI 0.1, 1.3) among women (P <0.01).ConclusionThe prevalence of diabetes has remained relatively constant over time. However, the probability of finding undetected cases of diabetes in the population without diabetes may be increasing among men.
Overcoming the Valley of Death: A Design Innovation Perspective
Authors: Klitsie Joannes Barend , Price Rebecca Anne , De Lille Christine Stefanie Heleen 
Published: December 2019

In large organizations, innovation activities often take place in separate departments, centers, or studios. These departments aim to produce prototypes of solutions to the problems of operational business owners. However, too often these concepts remain in the prototype stage: they are never implemented and fall into what is popularly termed the Valley of Death.A design approach to innovation is presented as a solution to the problem. However, practice shows that teams that use design nevertheless encounter implementation challenges due to the larger infrastructure of the organization they are part of. This research aims to explore which organizational factors contribute to the Valley of Death during design innovation. An embedded multiple case study at a large heritage airline is applied. Four projects are analyzed to identify implementation challenges. A thematic data analysis reveals organizational design, departmental silos, and dissimilar innovation strategies contribute to the formation of, and encounters with, the Valley of Death. Arising resource‐assignment challenges that result from these factors are also identified. Materialization, user‐centeredness, and holistic problem framing are identified as design practices that mitigate encounters with the Valley of Death, thus leading to projects being fully realized.
Agricultural intensification drives changes in hybrid network robustness by modifying network structure
Authors: Morrison Beth M. L. , Brosi Berry J. , Dirzo Rodolfo 
Published: December 2019

AbstractWithin ecological communities, species engage in myriad interaction types, yet empirical examples of hybrid species interaction networks composed of multiple types of interactions are still scarce. A key knowledge gap is understanding how the structure and stability of such hybrid networks are affected by anthropogenic disturbance. Using 15,169 interaction observations, we constructed 16 hybrid herbivore‐plant‐pollinator networks along an agricultural intensification gradient to explore changes in network structure and robustness to local extinctions. We found that agricultural intensification led to declines in modularity but increases in nestedness and connectance. Notably, network connectance, a structural feature typically thought to increase robustness, caused declines in hybrid network robustness, but the directionality of changes in robustness along the gradient depended on the order of local species extinctions. Our results not only demonstrate the impacts of anthropogenic disturbance on hybrid network structure, but they also provide unexpected insights into the structure‐stability relationship of hybrid networks.