bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficial effects of cilostazol on liver injury induced by common bile duct ligation in rats: Role of SIRT1 signaling pathway
Authors: Kabil Soad L.
Published: June 2018

Liver fibrosis is a health challenge requiring alternative therapeutic approaches. Cilostazol is a selective phosphodiesterase‐3 inhibitor and possesses antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic properties. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is a member of the silent information regulator 2 family. Cilostazol upregulates SIRT1 expression. Cilostazol protects against the cholestatic liver insults caused by bile duct obstruction. Involvement of SIRT1 pathway in this protective effect has not been studied yet. So, we hypothesized that SIRT1 signaling may have a role in cilostazol protective effects against bile duct ligation‐induced liver damages. Rats were subjected to common bile duct ligation then treated with cilostazol (9 mg/kg or 27 mg/kg) in the presence or absence of specific SIRT1 inhibitor EX527. Cilostazol improved liver function, reduced inflammation, enhanced antioxidant status, ameliorated cholestatic liver injury and upregulated hepatic SIRT1. However, these protective effects were abrogated by EX527, suggesting that SIRT1 signaling may have a role in these effects. In conclusion, cilostazol in a dose‐dependent way produced hepatoprotective effects via anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antifibrotic effects which were mediated, in part, through SIRT1 upregulation.
Another Look at Job Design with Conflicting Tasks
Authors: Pi Jiancai
Published: June 2018

This paper provides another look at job design with conflicting tasks. In a two‐stage moral hazard framework with risk‐neutral agents and limited liability, we study externalities that the first‐stage outcome has on the second‐stage success probability. We focus on outcome externalities with regard to the fixed (i.e. effort independent) part of the second‐stage success probability. Our results differ from the case studied by Schmitz (), who considers outcome externalities with regard to the marginal second‐stage success probability.
Do Merger Laws Deter Cross‐Border Mergers and Acquisitions?
Authors: Yan Jing
Published: June 2018

Cross‐border merger and acquisition (M&A) flows have surged since the early 1990s. In the meanwhile, more and more countries have passed merger laws that regulate M&A. We propose a gravity model to examine the influence of merger law on cross‐border M&As. Based on a data set on cross‐border deals from 1985 to 2015, we find that merger regulation has a deterrence effect on cross‐border M&As. We show the robustness of our results in a number of tests, including using different measurements of cross‐border M&A activity and merger law. We also document a heterogeneous effect on member countries of the Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development.
Duopoly Competition with Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Wang Chan , Nie Pu‐yan , Meng Yan
Published: June 2018

This paper highlights the effect of firms’ position on firms’ strategies with corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices under three different cases: Cournot competition; Stackelberg competition with the CSR firm taking the leader position and turnover, with the profit maximising (PM) firm playing as the leader. Some interesting conclusions are achieved. First, the CSR firm always produces more than the PM firm. Second, the outputs of both firms (the consumer surplus) under the PM firm's leading position are larger than those under Cournot. Third, the profits of both firms (producer surplus) under the PM firm playing the leading position are less than those under Cournot. Surprisingly, when the PM firm first moves, the PM firm's profits are the lowest while the CSR firm's outputs are the highest in all three cases. Finally, the relationship of social welfare under the three cases is ambiguous.
Estimating plate‐based model food proportions in adults living in Scotland using short dietary assessment questionnaires
Authors: Hollis Jenna L. , Whybrow Stephen , Craig Leone C.A. , Clark Heather , Garden Leanne , McNeill Geraldine
Published: June 2018

Aim

To determine whether a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and a short dietary assessment tool can be used to accurately estimate the Eatwell Guide proportions (a plate‐based food model) of diets of adults living in Scotland.

Methods

The cross‐sectional study was conducted as a follow up of the 2010 Scottish Health Survey (participants aged 18–65 years old). Proportions of the Eatwell Guide food groups (starchy carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables (F&V), dairy and alternatives, protein foods and oils and spreads) were calculated from the Scottish Health Survey Eating Habits Module (SHeS EHM), Scottish Collaborative Group FFQ (SCG FFQ) and a seven‐day estimated food diary (reference method), and compared using the Aitchison method and Wilcoxon Signed‐Rank Test. Bland–Altman analyses assessed mean difference and 95% limits of agreement between the methods for each food group.

Results

Ninety‐six adults were included (mean (SD) age = 51.4 (11.1) years; body mass index = 27.1 (4.9) kg/m2; 58% female). The SCG FFQ scored a lower median Aitchison distance (1.47) than the SHeS EHM (1.99) (P < 0.001), showing greater agreement with the reference method (P < 0.001). Bland–Altman plots also showed better agreement for the SCG FFQ than the SHeS EHM. Poorest agreement was for starchy carbohydrates (both methods), protein foods (SHeS EHM) and dairy (SCG FFQ).

Conclusions

The SCG FFQ could be used to estimate Eatwell Guide proportions and monitor compliance to the Eatwell Guide recommendations and could be improved with small changes. The SHeS EHM is less suitable, but additional questions on dairy foods, and oils and spreads would improve its ability to estimate the Eatwell Guide proportions.
Do Corporate Site Visits Impact Stock Prices?
Authors: Cheng Qiang , Du Fei , Wang Brian Yutao , Wang Xin
Published: June 2018

We examine the stock price impact of corporate site visits using a unique data set of site visits to listed firms in China. Our main findings are as follows. First, the market reaction around corporate site visits is statistically and economically significant and is stronger for group visits, visits conducted by mutual fund managers, visits covering accounting and finance topics, visits to firms with poor information environments, and visits to manufacturing firms. Second, the stock returns around site visits are positively associated with firms’ future performance. Third, the changes in visiting funds’ holdings are more predictive of firms’ future performance than those of nonvisiting funds. Overall, this study contributes to the literature by providing evidence that site visits are important venues for investors to collect information about firms and make informed trades.
Spontaneous development of Alzheimer's disease‐associated brain pathology in a Shugoshin‐1 mouse cohesinopathy model
Authors: Rao Chinthalapally V. , Farooqui Mudassir , Zhang Yuting , Asch Adam S. , Yamada Hiroshi Y.
Published: June 2018

Spontaneous late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) accounts for more than 95% of all human AD. As mice do not normally develop AD and as understanding on molecular processes leading to spontaneous LOAD has been insufficient to successfully model LOAD in mouse, no mouse model for LOAD has been available. Existing mouse AD models are all early‐onset AD (EOAD) models that rely on forcible expression of AD‐associated protein(s), which may not recapitulate prerequisites for spontaneous LOAD. This limitation in AD modeling may contribute to the high failure rate of AD drugs in clinical trials. In this study, we hypothesized that genomic instability facilitates development of LOAD and tested two genomic instability mice models in the brain pathology at the old age. Shugoshin‐1 (Sgo1) haploinsufficient (∓) mice, a model of chromosome instability (CIN) with chromosomal and centrosomal cohesinopathy, spontaneously exhibited a major feature of AD pathology; amyloid beta accumulation that colocalized with phosphorylated Tau, beta‐secretase 1 (BACE), and mitotic marker phospho‐Histone H3 (p‐H3) in the brain. Another CIN model, spindle checkpoint‐defective BubR1−/+ haploinsufficient mice, did not exhibit the pathology at the same age, suggesting the prolonged mitosis‐origin of the AD pathology. RNA‐seq identified ten differentially expressed genes, among which seven genes have indicated association with AD pathology or neuronal functions (e.g., ARC, EBF3). Thus, the model represents a novel model that recapitulates spontaneous LOAD pathology in mouse. The Sgo1−/+ mouse may serve as a novel tool for investigating mechanisms of spontaneous progression of LOAD pathology, for early diagnosis markers, and for drug development.
SNARE Complex‐Associated Proteins in the Lateral Amygdala of Macaca mulatta Following Long‐Term Ethanol Drinking
Authors: Alexander Nancy J. , Rau Andrew R. , Jimenez Vanessa A. , Daunais James B. , Grant Kathleen A. , McCool Brian A.
Published: June 2018

Background

Recent work with long‐term ethanol (EtOH) self‐administration in nonhuman primate models has revealed a complex array of behavioral and physiological effects that closely mimic human alcohol abuse. Detailed neurophysiological analysis in these models suggests a myriad of pre‐ and postsynaptic neurobiological effects that may contribute to the behavioral manifestations of long‐term EtOH drinking. The molecular mechanisms regulating presynaptic effects of this chronic EtOH exposure are largely unknown. To this end, we analyzed the effects of long‐term EtOH self‐administration on the levels of presynaptic SNARE complex proteins in Macaca mulatta basolateral amygdala, a brain region known to regulate both aversive and reward‐seeking behaviors.

Methods

Basolateral amygdala samples from control and EtOH‐drinking male and female monkeys were processed. Total basolateral amygdala protein was analyzed by Western blotting using antibodies directed against both core SNARE and SNARE‐associated proteins. We also performed correlational analyses between protein expression levels and a number of EtOH drinking parameters, including lifetime grams of EtOH consumed, preference, and blood alcohol concentration.

Results

Significant interactions or main effects of sex/drinking were seen for a number of SNARE core and SNARE‐associated proteins. Across the range of EtOH‐drinking phenotypes, SNAP25 and Munc13‐1 proteins levels were significantly different between males and females, and Munc13‐2 levels were significantly lower in animals with a history of EtOH drinking. A separate analysis of very heavy‐drinking individuals revealed significant decreases in Rab3c (females) and complexin 2 (males).

Conclusions

Protein expression analysis of basolateral amygdala total protein from controls and animals following long‐term EtOH self‐administration suggests a number of alterations in core SNARE or SNARE‐associated components that could dramatically alter presynaptic function. A number of proteins or multiprotein components were also correlated with EtOH drinking behavior, which suggest a potentially heritable role for presynaptic SNARE proteins.
Maturation ability after transfer of freeze‐dried germinal vesicles from porcine oocytes
Authors: Dang‐Nguyen Thanh Quang , Nguyen Hiep Thi , Nguyen Men Thi , Somfai Tamas , Noguchi Junko , Kaneko Hiroyuki , Kikuchi Kazuhiro
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine whether freeze‐dried germinal vesicles (GV) can be matured in vitro after being injected into enucleated fresh oocytes in pigs as an alternative method for conservation of genetic resources. Although no reduction of the size of GV (p = .094), resveratrol treatment significantly enhanced the survival rates following GV transfer (GVT) (p < .001). Supplementation with 100 or 200 mmol/L trehalose in freeze‐drying medium significantly increased the proportions of GVs with intact nuclear membrane and DNA integrity compared with the control group. Following transfer of freeze‐dried GVs into enucleated fresh oocytes, the proportion of reconstructed oocytes reached the metaphase‐II stage (2.4% ± 1.4%) was significantly lower (p < .05) than that of the in vitro matured control group (83.2% ± 2.5%), it was comparable with the GVT control group (7.4% ± 2.7%). The rates of freeze‐dried GVs with intact nuclear membrane and DNA stored at −20°C for 5 days were significantly higher (p < .05) than those at 4°C and room temperature. The rates of intact nuclear membrane and DNA in the freeze‐dried GV stored for 15 or 30 days at −20, 4°C and RT were not significantly different. In conclusion, matured oocytes were produced derived from freeze‐dried GVs.
Laparoscopic transection of restrictive bands of the mesosalpinx as adjunct to the use of prostaglandin E2for mares with suspected uterine tubal blockage
Authors: Pye J , Clulow J , Adkins A
Published: June 2018

Objective

To describe the laparoscopic transection of restrictive bands of the mesosalpinx as a useful adjunct to the topical application of prostaglandin E2to treat mares with suspected uterine tubal blockage.

Methods

A standard left flank laparoscopic approach was made to the abdomen using three laparoscopic portals. If restrictive bands of the mesosalpinx were observed traversing the uterine tube perpendicularly, they were carefully transected and 1 mg of prostaglandin E2was then applied to the external surface of the uterine tube. Skin incisions were closed with surgical staples and the procedure was repeated on the right uterine tube.

Results

Nine Thoroughbred mares suspected of uterine tubal blockage were treated. The treated mares had been barren for 1.8 years on average (range: 1–5 years). The overall postoperative conception rate in treated mares was 89% (8/9 mares). The mean number of mated oestrus cycles before pregnancy in the eight mares that conceived was 1.9 ± 1.6. These mares had been bred on average 6.2 ± 1.9 cycles without becoming pregnant prior to surgery.

Conclusion

Transection of restrictive bands of the mesosalpinx is easily performed as an adjunctive procedure to laparoscopic‐guided application of prostaglandin E2to the uterine tube. The procedure does not appear to have any detrimental effects on fertility and may improve fertility in a particular subset of mares with complicated uterine tubal disease.
A comparative pharmacokinetic study of DRL_BZ, a candidate biosimilar of bevacizumab, with Avastin® (EU and US) in healthy male subjects
Authors: Wynne Chris , Schwabe Christian , Batra Sonica Sachdeva , Lopez‐Lazaro Luis , Kankanwadi Suresh
Published: June 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics (PK) of DRL_BZ with that of EU‐approved (reference medicinal product; RMP) and US‐licensed (reference product; RP) bevacizumab (Avastin®) in healthy male subjects.

Methods

In this double‐blind, parallel‐group, Phase 1 study (BZ‐01‐001), men aged 20–45 years were randomized 1:1:1 to receive a single intravenous infusion of 1 mg kg−1 of bevacizumab as DRL_BZ, RMP or RP. A total of 149 subjects were randomized (DRL_BZ, 50; RMP, 50; RP, 49). Primary endpoints included maximum observed serum concentration (Cmax), area under the concentration–time curve from time zero (pre‐dose) extrapolated to infinity (AUC(0–∞)), and area under the concentration–time curve from time zero (pre‐dose) to last quantifiable concentration (AUC(0–t)). Secondary objectives were to compare the safety and immunogenicity of DRL_BZ with those of the reference products.

Results

Primary PK parameters were comparable across groups, and 90% confidence intervals for the geometric mean ratios of the primary PK endpoints were within the pre‐specified equivalence margins (80–125%) for all pairwise comparisons (DRL_BZ vs. RMP, DRL_BZ vs. RP and RMP vs. RP). No deaths or serious adverse events were reported. Similar numbers of subjects reported similar numbers of treatment‐emergent adverse events in the three treatment groups. One subject who received DRL_BZ had anti‐drug antibodies at the Day 85 visit; however, no anti‐drug antibodies were detected in this subject at the 12‐month follow‐up visit.

Conclusions

PK, safety and immunogenicity of DRL_BZ were comparable to EU‐approved and US‐licensed bevacizumab in healthy male subjects.
The federal government's banks: Financial services and public policy
Authors: Bird Malcolm G.
Published: June 2018

Internationally, interest in and research on state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) have increased significantly, particularly in the developing world, where they play a vital role in national economies. The evolution of Canadian SOEs is, for the most part, largely absent from this literature. This article analyzes and evaluates the performance of three SOEs in the financial sector owned and operated by the federal government: Export Development Canada (EDC), the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Farm Credit Canada (FCC). The article seeks to evaluate the performance of these commercially oriented hybrid entities which are policy (and politically) sensitive to the needs of their single shareholder. There is evidence that these firms take on higher‐risk investments than their private sector counterparts, in addition to performing other politically significant policy roles. There is also evidence that, as publicly owned entities, they enjoy some significant advantages over other actors in the sector.
Who are you afraid of and why? Inside the black box of refugee tribunals
Authors: Tomkinson Sule
Published: June 2018

Refugee hearings perform an important function in migration management. They filter unwanted immigrants while offering possibilities for the protection of human rights for others. Building on insights from frontline decision‐making and migration studies, and from the standpoint of law and society, this article examines how Canada's refugee adjudicators assess the facts of a refugee claim. The data come from ethnographic research that combines observation of hearings, interviews with implicated actors and archival research. Going beyond adjudicators’ individual‐level attitudes towards refugee claimants, the article finds that hearing room assessments are shaped by adjudicators’ divergent approaches to fact‐finding, their interdependent relationships with lawyers, and their training.
Can't Ignore—Distraction by Task‐Irrelevant Sounds in Early and Middle Childhood
Authors: Wetzel Nicole , Scharf Florian , Widmann Andreas
Published: June 2018

Attention control abilities are relevant for learning success. Little is known about the development of audio‐visual attention in early childhood. Four groups of children between the ages of 4 and 10 years and adults performed an audio‐visual distraction paradigm (N = 106). Multilevel analyses revealed increased reaction times in a visual categorization task when task‐irrelevant novel sounds were presented, demonstrating involuntary distraction of attention. This distraction effect decreased with age and significantly differed between age groups. In addition, the two youngest age groups responded with a delay in trials following a distractor trial, indicating delayed reallocation of attention to the task at hand. Results indicate a significant maturation of audio‐visual attention control within a few years during early childhood that continues throughout middle childhood.
Endocrine mucin‐producing sweat gland carcinoma: A study of 11 cases with molecular analysis
Authors: Qin Huamin , Moore Robert F. , Ho Cheng‐Ying , Eshleman James , Eberhart Charles G. , Cuda Jonathan
Published: June 2018

Background

Endocrine mucin‐producing sweat gland carcinoma (EMPSGC) is a rare, low‐grade adnexal neoplasm that most commonly involves the eyelid. Analogous to solid papillary carcinoma of the breast, it probably represents a precursor lesion to mucinous carcinoma. Here, we describe 11 cases of EMPSGC with molecular analysis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective search of the Johns Hopkins Medical Institute pathology database and identified 11 cases of EMPSGC. Immunohistochemistry was performed for chromogranin, synaptophysin, neuron specific enolase, estrogen receptor (ER), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), cytokeratin 7 (CK7), and cytokeratin 20 (CK20). Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and BRAFV600E pyrosequencing were performed on two and three cases, respectively.

Results

We observed a strong female predilection (73% females, 8/11 cases) with an average age of 66 years (range, 56‐83 years). EMPSGCs were associated with adjacent benign sweat gland cysts (3/11), atypical intraductal proliferation (1/11), and mucinous carcinoma (1/11). Immunohistochemically, all tumors expressed at least one neuroendocrine marker, ER, EMA, and CK7, and were negative for CK20. aCGH demonstrated a 6p11.2 to 6q16.1 deletion (1/2 cases). All cases were negative for BRAFV600E mutation (3/3 cases).

Conclusion

This series provides further histopathologic support that EMPSGC represents a multistage progression to mucinous carcinoma. Additional studies are needed to understand its molecular mechanisms.
Impact of preoperative biliary drainage on postoperative outcome after pancreaticoduodenectomy: An analysis of 1500 consecutive cases
Authors: De Pastena Matteo , Marchegiani Giovanni , Paiella Salvatore , Malleo Giuseppe , Ciprani Debora , Gasparini Clizia , Secchettin Erica , Salvia Roberto , Gabbrielli Armando , Bassi Claudio
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

Implications of preoperative biliary drain on morbidity and mortality after pancreatoduodenectomy are still controversial. The present study aims to assess the impact of preoperative biliary drain on postoperative outcome and to define optimal serum bilirubin cut‐off to recommend biliary drainage in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

All consecutive pancreatoduodenectomies carried out at Verona Hospital from 2005 to 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. The study population was divided into three groups: preoperative biliary drained (Stented Group), preoperative jaundice without drainage (Jaundiced Group) and the control group of non‐jaundiced, non‐stented patients (Control Group).

Results

A total of 1500 patients were included. Seven hundred and fourteen patients (47.6%) received biliary drain (stented group), 258 (17.2%) patients did not (jaundiced group) and 528 (35.2%) patients represented the (control group). Major complications and mortality rates did not differ between groups. Conversely, the risk of developing surgical site infections doubled in the stented group (18.1%) (OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.5–2.8). In jaundiced patients, a preoperative bilirubin value greater than 7.5 mg/dL (128 μmol/L) accurately predicted the likelihood of postoperative complications.

Conclusion

Preoperative biliary drain does not increase major complications and mortality rates after pancreatoduodenectomy, but it is associated with higher surgical site infection rates. In jaundiced patients, a bilirubin value greater than 7.5 mg/dL (128 μmol/L) should indicate biliary drainage.
Birth Order and Sibling Sex Composition Effects Among Surviving Children in India: Enrollment Status and Test Scores
Authors: Makino Momoe
Published: June 2018

While the birth of later‐born girls seems least welcome in India, where gender discrimination persists, birth order and sibling sex composition effects among surviving children are less known. The current study investigates whether later‐born girls are discriminated from their siblings once children survive up to primary school age in India. Examining the effects on test scores reveals that there is no negative later‐born effect for girls among surviving children. Instead, girls seem to be consistently at an advantage if they have elder sisters. Furthermore, gender bias among primary school age children is detected only in households of larger size. This implies that gender discrimination is severe in terms of survival, but once children survive up to primary school age they are treated equally.
Fetal modified left myocardial performance index monitoring during open surgery for myelomeningocele repair
Authors: Santana Eduardo Félix Martins , Moron Antônio Fernandes , Araujo Júnior Edward , Barbosa Maurício Mendes , Milani Herbene Jose Figuinha , Sarmento Stephanno Gomes Pereira , Cavalheiro Sérgio
Published: June 2018

Objective

Fetal hemodynamic changes have already been described during open myelomeningocele repair. This study aimed to access fetal myocardial performance index (MPI) during this high‐complexity surgery.

Methods

Open myelomeningocele repair was performed in 37 fetuses between the 24th and 27th week of gestation. MPI was calculated at specific periods: pre‐anesthesia, postanesthesia, neurosurgery (early skin manipulation, spinal cord releasing, and sintesis), and end of surgery. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) of MPI and its related times—isovolumetric contraction time (ICT), isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT), and ejection time (ET)—was determined for each period. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures was used to assess differences among these periods. Tukey multiple comparison times test compared global surgery stages.

Results

The mean of MPI in the specific time points was 0.32, 0.32, 0.34, 0.48, 0.36, and 0.32, respectively (P < .001). In the two‐tailed comparison times, neurosurgery stage presents MPI highest levels, especially on stage 3b (early skin manipulation and spinal cord releasing) related to ICT and IRT rising and ET decreased levels.

Conclusion

Fetal global cardiac function is altered during the open myelomeningocele repair. The neurosurgery stage represents the critical phase of the procedure.
Digital ITEMS Module 2: Scale Reliability in Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Hancock Gregory R. , An Ji
Published: June 2018

In this ITEMS module, we frame the topic of scale reliability within a confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) context and address some of the limitations of Cronbach's α. This modeling approach has two major advantages: (1) it allows researchers to make explicit the relation between their items and the latent variables representing the constructs those items intend to measure, and (2) it facilitates a more principled and formal practice of scale reliability evaluation. Specifically, we begin the module by discussing key conceptual and statistical foundations of the classical test theory model and then framing it within an SEM context; we do so first with a single item and then expand this approach to a multi‐item scale. This allows us to set the stage for presenting different measurement structures that might underlie a scale and, more importantly, for assessing and comparing those structures formally within the SEM context. We then make explicit the connection between measurement model parameters and different measures of reliability, emphasizing the challenges and benefits of key measures while ultimately endorsing the flexible McDonald's ω over Cronbach's α. We then demonstrate how to estimate key measures in both a commercial software program (Mplus) and three packages within an open‐source environment (R). In closing, we make recommendations for practitioners about best practices in reliability estimation based on the ideas presented in the module.
Rational mate choice decisions vary with female age and multidimensional male signals in swordtails
Authors: Reding Luke , Cummings Molly E.
Published: June 2018

Biologists have long been interested in intransitive preferences: circular preferences in which options cannot be ranked and no single option dominates, similar to a game of rock‐paper‐scissors. Intransitive preferences violate rational decision‐making, an assumption made by models of evolution by mate choice. Despite its potential importance in the study of sexual selection, few studies have tested for intransitive preferences. Even fewer have asked whether females differ in whether they choose mates transitively or intransitively and what factors might predict (in)transitive choice. Though intransitive choice is thought to be more common as options become more complex, this prediction is untested in animals. To fill this gap, we tested whether female Xiphophorus nigrensis swordtails can rank digitally animated males differing in size, courtship intensity, or both size and courtship intensity, and whether female responses were predicted by a female's age. Females choosing among males that varied only in size showed higher than expected levels of intransitivity, whereas females choosing among males that varied in their courtship or both properties did not. Older females were more likely to be irrational than younger females when evaluating male size, suggesting that experience modifies transitive decision‐making processes. These results show that mate choice irrationality may vary by a female's experience and the signal characteristics during decision‐making.
Sanitation sustainability, seasonality and stacking: Improved facilities for how long, where and whom?
Authors: Jewitt Sarah , Mahanta Anjana , Gaur Kamla
Published: June 2018

Despite laudable efforts by Sustainable Development Goal 6 to promote inclusiveness and sustainability, there is a danger that its global, target‐based focus may eclipse context‐specific sanitation priorities and constraints. Drawing primarily on qualitative village‐based research in Guwahati, India, this paper explores how specific geographical settings influence sanitation sustainability (“improved for where/when and how long?”) and user‐based priorities (“improved for whom?”). Emphasis is placed on sustainability concerns associated with pit emptying, poor construction and seasonal flooding. Shit flow diagrams are used to illustrate seasonal variations in estimates of safely managed sanitation. These estimates are compared with alternative criteria for monitoring access to “improved” or “safe” sanitation technologies. Our findings indicate that poor latrine construction and maintenance coupled with seasonal flooding cause frequent shifts between “improved and “unimproved” or “shared” systems along with significant changes in estimates of safely managed sanitation. Sanitation “stacking” (simultaneous use of a range of sanitation systems) also occurs due to preferences for open defecation coupled with high demand for existing latrines; especially during seasonal flooding. Arguments are made for the need to monitor seasonal variations in use, quality and continuity of access to sanitation facilities and capture data on sanitation “stacking” if “sanitation for all” is to be achieved.
Chivalry in Late Medieval Tuscany and Florence: Current historiography and new perspectives
Authors: Sposato Peter
Published: June 2018

Chivalry was the dominant ethos of the lay elite in high and late medieval Europe, including in Italy. Chivalric ideology helped to shape the mentality, lifestyle, and identity of nobles, knights, and men‐at‐arms and to reinforce their claims to social, political, and economic superiority. While scholars have spilled considerable ink studying chivalry's powerful influence in northwestern Europe, especially in England and France, there has been far less interest in the topic among historians of Italy. This article will examine the existing historiography on chivalry in one region of the peninsula, Tuscany, with a particular focus on the city of Florence. The traditional interpretation of chivalry found in these works is that of an ideology predominantly courtly and ceremonial in nature. This article will also introduce the newest scholarship which challenges this conceptualization of Tuscan and Florentine chivalry and offers a new interpretation that is in line with the most recent studies of chivalry in the general European context.
Drilling performances and wear characteristics of coated drill bits during drilling reinforced concrete
Authors: Sathish Sathyavageeswaran , Ramkumar Sathiyamurthy , Geetha Manivasagam
Published: June 2018

This paper deals with the investigation on the microstructure and wear behavior of uncoated, Al2O3‐13 wt% TiO2, and WC‐12 wt% Co‐coated drill bits intended for drilling reinforced concrete. Atmospheric plasma spraying technique was employed to fabricate the above coatings on high speed steel drill bits. The circularity measurements of the drilled holes were carried out using MATLAB. The holes drilled using WC‐12 wt% Co‐coated drill bit showed a better circularity depicting enhanced wear resistance as compared to that of the uncoated and Al2O3‐13 wt% TiO2 drill bits. The improvement in the wear resistance of WC‐12 wt% Co‐coated drill bit is attributed to its higher hardness and lower porosity. Thrust force was observed to be lower for WC‐12 wt% Co‐coated drill bit depicting less amount of wear. This study suggests that WC‐12 wt% Co‐coated drill bits can be a potential candidate for drilling reinforced concrete.
Variation of crystal structure, magnetization, and dielectric properties of Nd and Ba co‐doped BiFeO3multiferroics
Authors: Singh Ompal , Agarwal Ashish , Sanghi Sujata , Singh Jogender
Published: June 2018

Multiferroics having composition Bi0.80Nd0.20‐xBaxFeO3were prepared to investigate the effect of doping on crystal structure, magnetic, and dielectric properties. The Rietveld refinement deduces the formation of mixed structural symmetry. With larger content of Nd, crystal structure consisting of major rhombohedral R3c and minor orthorhombic Pnma has been accomplished. The fraction of rhombohedral phase has been found to increase with doping of Ba up tox= 0.10. At compositionx= 0.15, the orthorhombic phase Pnma disappears, and there is evolution of triclinic phase P1 in place of it. The mixed structure now accomplished contains ≈61% rhombohedral R3c and rest 39% triclinic P1. In solely Ba‐doped sample (ie, atx= 0.20), the fraction of rhombohedral R3c phase again rises and attains ≈92% fraction of the structure along with rest triclinic P1 phase. The M‐H loops depict enormous enhancement in magnetic properties with increasing doping of Ba. Dielectric constant (ε′) and dielectric loss (tanδ) both were found to increase with doping of Ba. The anomalies present in the dielectric constant and dielectric loss with temperature may be regarded to the hopping conduction of e−between Fe3+and Fe2+and their interaction with oxygen vacancies.
Corrosion behavior of alumina‐based ceramic core materials in caustic alkali solutions
Authors: Gao Zhao‐Fen , Wang Bao‐Quan , Yin Jinwei , Zeng Yu‐Ping
Published: June 2018

Corrosion behaviors of the porous alumina‐based ceramic core materials in KOH and NaOH solution were investigated. Corrosion tests were carried out at 100°C, 150°C, and 200°C, and the concentration of KOH and NaOH was 50, 67, and 75 wt%, respectively. The results indicated that the optimal concentration was 67 wt% for KOH solution and 50 wt% for NaOH solution, respectively. Increasing corrosion temperature and prolonging corrosion time were helpful to enhance the corrosion effect, and temperature played an extra important role during the whole corrosion process. NaOH solution was better than KOH solution for corrosion at the same temperature and concentration.
CD4 T cells in protection from influenza virus: Viral antigen specificity and functional potential
Authors: Sant Andrea J. , DiPiazza Anthony T. , Nayak Jennifer L. , Rattan Ajitanuj , Richards Katherine A.
Published: June 2018

CD4 T cells convey a number of discrete functions to protective immunity to influenza, a complexity that distinguishes this arm of adaptive immunity from B cells and CD8 T cells. Although the most well recognized function of CD4 T cells is provision of help for antibody production, CD4 T cells are important in many aspects of protective immunity. Our studies have revealed that viral antigen specificity is a key determinant of CD4 T cell function, as illustrated both by mouse models of infection and human vaccine responses, a factor whose importance is due at least in part to events in viral antigen handling. We discuss research that has provided insight into the diverse viral epitope specificity of CD4 T cells elicited after infection, how this primary response is modified as CD4 T cells home to the lung, establish memory, and after challenge with a secondary and distinct influenza virus strain. Our studies in human subjects point out the challenges facing vaccine efforts to facilitate responses to novel and avian strains of influenza, as well as strategies that enhance the ability of CD4 T cells to promote protective antibody responses to both seasonal and potentially pandemic strains of influenza.
Assessing human B cell repertoire diversity and convergence
Authors: Imkeller Katharina , Wardemann Hedda
Published: June 2018

A hallmark of the adaptive immune system is the specificity of B cell and T cell responses. Mechanistically, this feature relies on the fact that the two genes that encode B cell and T cell antigen receptors are not germline encoded and instead are assembled from a large number of small gene segments during lymphocyte development. The underlying somatic gene recombination process can generate a quasi‐unlimited repertoire of antigen receptors. The high degree of diversity is essential to guarantee recognition of nearly any antigenic structure to protect from the large variety of potential invading pathogens and to keep the balance with commensals. Due to the enormous complexity of the antigen receptor repertoire, our understanding of its actual size and functional convergence at the level of the individual and the population is still limited. A better understanding of the actual degree of diversity could help to predict adaptive immune responses and would have wide implications for the development of preventive and therapeutic measures against infectious and autoimmune diseases as well as cancer. Here, we discuss the recent advances in the field with a specific focus on B cells and the function of antibodies.
Organization Capital and Expected Returns in Service and Non‐Service Firms: Evidence from Thailand
Authors: Amatachaya Srisuda , Saengchote Kanis
Published: June 2018

Organization capital provides firms with competitive advantage, but because of its intangible and movable nature, investors view firms with high organization capital as risker and demand additional risk premia. Similar to Eisfeldt and Papanikolaou (2013), we find that firms in the Stock Exchange of Thailand with highest organization capital earn abnormal returns of 0.75% per month relative to the four‐factor asset pricing model. In addition, we also document that the organization capital risk premium is more relevant for service firms than non‐service ones.
Risk factors for bronchiolitis severity: A retrospective review of patients admitted to the university hospital from central region of Slovenia
Authors: Praznik Ajda , Vinšek Neža , Prodan Ana , Erčulj Vanja , Pokorn Marko , Mrvič Tatjana , Paro Darja , Krivec Uroš , Strle Franc , Petrovec Miroslav , Žnidaršič Eržen Marta , Grosek Štefan
Published: June 2018

Aim

Study's objective was to identify risk factors associated with bronchiolitis severity.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all children <2 years old diagnosed with bronchiolitis at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana between May 2014 and April 2015, who were treated as outpatients (paediatric emergency department, PED group) or as inpatients in the standard hospital setting (WARD group) or in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU group). Detection of respiratory viruses in nasopharyngeal swab was accomplished by RT‐PCR. Severity was assessed by Wang Respiratory Score and hospitalization longer than 24 hours.

Results

The study included 761 children. The three most frequently detected viruses were respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human rhinovirus (hRV) and human bocavirus (hBoV) (57.5%, 272/473; 25.6%, 121/473; 18.4%, 87/473). Patient groups differed in Wang Respiratory Score for the severity of bronchiolitis (P < 0.001). No differences regarding the causative viruses were found. There was a lower proportion of children with the presence of more than one virus in PICU group compared to other two groups (P = 0.017). The three groups significantly differed in age, birthweight, comorbidities, bronchodilator treatment and antibiotic usage. However, multiple regression analysis revealed that younger age and the use of antibiotics were associated with bronchiolitis severity defined as hospitalization for >24 hours.

Conclusions

Respiratory syncytial virus, hRV and hBoV were the most frequently detected viruses. The majority of patients admitted to the PICU had only one virus detected. Younger age and the use of antibiotics were associated with bronchiolitis severity.
mHealth resources for asthma and pregnancy care: Methodological issues and social media recruitment. A discussion paper
Authors: Williamson Graham R. , O'Connor Anita , Chamberlain Chervonne , Halpin David
Published: June 2018

Aims

A discussion of methodological issues and social media recruitment to a feasibility study to investigate mHealth resources for asthma and pregnancy care.

Background

Pregnant women with asthma are reported to be poorly supported according to an international research. We sought to establish if a mHealth intervention might be feasible and acceptable to them.

Design

A Phase I or modelling study.

Methods

A project team designed an intervention to address UK national guidelines for the management of asthma during pregnancy, using other resources already accessible on the web. This was made available on a project website optimized for mobile phone usage. Links were Tweeted and advertised on Facebook, asking participants to access the project website, which included links to the resources and before‐ and after‐use questionnaires to establish baseline symptom data and participant views of the resources.

Results

Despite 55,700 Twitter impressions in a 76‐day period over winter 2016–2017, this recruitment strategy garnered 402 engagements but only seven respondents for questionnaire 1 and zero respondents for questionnaire 2.

Conclusions

We could not recruit to this study despite believing that social media recruitment would be effective and we recommend that social media recruitment be used cautiously. Apparently, we did not sufficiently address the theoretical aspects of communications theory and were not clear enough about our key messages. Publication bias may exist about the non‐publication of other failed telemedicine studies using social media; this goes largely unreported in some systematic reviews and may influence researchers’ decision‐making about social media recruitment.
Nurse opinions about initiating spiritual conversation and prayer in patient care
Authors: Taylor Elizabeth Johnston , Gober‐Park Carla , Schoonover‐Shoffner Kathy , Mamier Iris , Somaiya Chintan K. , Bahjri Khaled
Published: June 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to understand nurses’ opinions about initiating spiritual or religious conversation during patient care and to measure how these perspectives are associated with demographic, religious and work‐related characteristics.

Background

Nurses are expected to provide spiritual care and do so in diverse ways. Little is known about how nurses think about initiating spiritual or religious discourse.

Design

Cross‐sectional, quantitative.

Methods

Online survey methods allowed data collection from 445 nurses. The survey, accessed from the homepage of the Journal of Christian Nursing for 6 months beginning June 2015, included scales measuring various facets of religiosity, and items assessing nurse opinions about introducing spirituality or religion during patient care and demographic and work‐related variables. Variables showing significant associations with Nurse Opinion items in bivariate analyses were examined using binary logistic regression.

Results

About 90% of participants believed it appropriate to initiate conversation about spirituality/religion and nearly three‐quarters thought it appropriate to self‐disclose spirituality/religion or offer prayer under certain circumstances or anytime. All personal religiosity indicators except tentativeness of belief were found to be associated with responses to Nurse Opinion items. That is, higher religiosity was associated with opinion one could initiate such conversations, whereas lower religiosity was associated with waiting for patients to initiate. Nurses working in a faith‐based organization were 276% more likely to believe they could initiate such conversation and 153% more likely to think they could initiate an offer of prayer.

Conclusion

Nurse religiosity and work environment were associated with nurse opinions about initiating spiritual/religious discourse with patients.
The value of measurement for development of nursing knowledge: Underlying philosophy, contributions and critiques
Authors: Durepos Pamela , Orr Elizabeth , Ploeg Jenny , Kaasalainen Sharon
Published: June 2018

Aim

A philosophical discussion of constructive realism and measurement in the development of nursing knowledge is presented.

Background

Through Carper's four patterns of knowing, nurses come to know a person holistically. However, measurement as a source for nursing knowledge has been criticized for underlying positivism and reductionist approach to exploring reality. Which seems mal‐alignment with person‐centred care.

Design

Discussion paper.

Discussion

Constructive realism bridges positivism and constructivism, facilitating the measurement of physical and psychological phenomena. Reduction of complex phenomena and theoretical constructs into measurable properties is essential to building nursing's empiric knowledge and facilitates (rather than inhibits) person‐knowing.

Implications for nursing

Nurses should consider constructive realism as a philosophy to underpin their practice. This philosophy supports measurement as a primary method of inquiry in nursing research and clinical practice. Nurses can carefully select, and purposefully integrate, measurement tools with other methods of inquiry (such as qualitative research methods) to demonstrate the usefulness of nursing interventions and highlight nursing as a science.
Level of knowledge, emotional impact and perception about the role of nursing professionals concerning palliative sedation
Authors: Zuleta‐Benjumea Andrea , Muñoz Silvia M , Vélez Maria C , Krikorian Alicia
Published: June 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore aspects related to the fulfilment of the role of nurses in palliative sedation.

Background

Palliative sedation demands knowledge and a proper attitude for maintaining comfort, preserving dignity and contributing to a peaceful death. In some developed countries, nurses have a well‐established role in palliative sedation. However, studies on their role and its fulfilment are limited, particularly in the developing world.

Design

An exploratory, mixed, qualitative and quantitative study was conducted. A self‐administered questionnaire was used to examine the level of knowledge of palliative sedation and the level of confidence in skills and knowledge about palliative sedation. Also, focus groups were conducted to explore the emotional impact and the perceived role of nurses.

Methods

Forty‐one nurses from three advanced‐care hospitals with palliative care units in Colombia completed the questionnaire. Also, four focus groups were conducted with 22 participants selected from the first phase.

Results

A high level of knowledge regarding palliative sedation was found, but the level of confidence in skills was higher than the confidence in knowledge. The participants expressed their belief that their knowledge was derived from experience but believed that it was not enough to fulfil their role with confidence. A negative emotional impact about the patients' condition was found. For some, it served as motivation to provide better care. For others, it was difficult to face, especially when assisting children. They also expressed satisfaction and gratification about providing relief from suffering through sedation.

Conclusions

The role of nursing is essential in palliative sedation. Although the nurses' knowledge is adequate, it primarily derives from experience and not from formal training, which impacts on their perceived confidence and their distress.

Relevance to clinical practice

Formal training for the optimal fulfilling of the nursing role in palliative sedation is crucial to provide better end‐of‐life care, particularly in developing countries.