bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferryl Hemoglobin Inhibits Osteoclastic Differentiation of Macrophages in Hemorrhaged Atherosclerotic Plaques
Authors: Zavaczki Erzsébet , Gáll Tamás , Zarjou Abolfazl , Hendrik Zoltán , Potor László , Tóth Csaba Zsigmond , Méhes Gábor , Gyetvai Ágnes , Agarwal Anupam , Balla György , Balla József
Published: February 2020

Intraplaque hemorrhage frequently occurs in atherosclerotic plaques resulting in cell-free hemoglobin, which is oxidized to ferryl hemoglobin (FHb) in the highly oxidative environment. Osteoclast-like cells (OLCs) derived from macrophages signify a counterbalance mechanism for calcium deposition in atherosclerosis. Our aim was to investigate whether oxidized hemoglobin alters osteoclast formation, thereby affecting calcium removal from mineralized atherosclerotic lesions. RANKL- (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Βligand-) induced osteoclastogenic differentiation and osteoclast activity of RAW264.7 cells were studied in response to oxidized hemoglobin via assessing bone resorption activity, expression of osteoclast-specific genes, and the activation of signalization pathways. OLCs in diseased human carotid arteries were assessed by immunohistochemistry. FHb, but not ferrohemoglobin, decreased bone resorption activity and inhibited osteoclast-specific gene expression (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, calcitonin receptor, and dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein) induced by RANKL. In addition, FHb inhibited osteoclastogenic signaling pathways downstream of RANK (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β). It prevented the induction of TRAF6 (tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor-associated factor 6) and c-Fos, phosphorylation of p-38 and JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase), and nuclear translocation of NFκB (nuclear factor kappa-Β) and NFATc1 (nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1). These effects were independent of heme oxygenase-1 demonstrated by knocking down HO-1 gene in RAW264.7 cells and in mice. Importantly, FHb competed with RANK for RANKL binding suggesting possible mechanisms by which FHb impairs osteoclastic differentiation. In diseased human carotid arteries, OLCs were abundantly present in calcified plaques and colocalized with regions of calcium deposition, while the number of these cells were lower in hemorrhagic lesions exhibiting accumulation of FHb despite calcium deposition. We conclude that FHb inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastic differentiation of macrophages and suggest that accumulation of FHb in a calcified area of atherosclerotic lesion with hemorrhage retards the formation of OLCs potentially impairing calcium resorption.
Study on Friction and Wear Behavior of Inconel 625 Superalloy during Hot Extrusion
Authors: Wang Yanjiang , Zhao Sixiang , Jia Zhi , Ji Jinjin , Liu Dexue , Guo Tingbiao , Ding Yutian
Published: February 2020

Friction during the hot extrusion of Inconel 625 superalloy tubes causes severe wear of the mold and plays a decisive role in the quality of the workpieces. In this paper, a ball‐to‐disk method was utilized to investigate the tribological behavior of Inconel 625 using two different tribological pairs, i.e., GCr15 and Si3N4, at room and elevated temperatures. Friction coefficient, specific wear rate, and morphology of worn surfaces were systematically characterized. It was found that the friction coefficients for both tribological pairs generally increased as the testing temperature increased, while the specific wear rate increased firstly and then decreased with the rise of temperature. Along with the increasing sliding speed, the friction coefficient between Inconel 625 and Si3N4 decreased monotonically, while the specific wear rate increased firstly and then decreased. Under any given testing condition, the friction coefficient and specific wear rate of the Inconel 625 for Inconel/Si3N4 pair are less than those of the Inconel/GCr15 pair. The main wear mechanisms between GCr15 and Inconel 625 are adhesive and fatigue wear at all testing temperatures. The wear mechanisms between Si3N4 and Inconel 625 are adhesive and abrasive wear at room temperature but fatigue wear at 500°C. Our findings indicate that the use of ceramic molds in the hot extrusion of Inconel 625 may significantly improve the surface qualities of the product and reduce the wear of the mold.
Vitamin D Deficiency Aggravates Hepatic Oxidative Stress and Inflammation during Chronic Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Hu Chun-Qiu , Bo Qing-Li , Chu Lan-Lan , Hu Yong-Di , Fu Lin , Wang Guo-Xiu , Lu Yan , Liu Xiao-Jing , Wang Hua , Xu De-Xiang
Published: February 2020

Vitamin D deficiency has been reported in alcoholics. This study is aimed at evaluating the effects of vitamin D deficiency on chronic alcohol-induced liver injury in mice. Mice were fed with modified Lieber-DeCarli liquid diets for 6 weeks to establish an animal model of chronic alcohol-induced liver injury. In the VDD+EtOH group, mice were fed with modified diets, in which vitamin D was depleted. Vitamin D deficiency aggravated alcohol-induced liver injury. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency aggravated hepatocyte apoptosis during alcohol-induced liver injury. Although it has a little effect on hepatic TG content, vitamin D deficiency promoted alcohol-induced hepatic GSH depletion and lipid peroxidation. Further analysis showed that vitamin D deficiency further increased alcohol-induced upregulation of hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase (inos), two NADPH oxidase subunits p47phox and gp91phox, and heme oxygenase- (HO-) 1. By contrast, vitamin D deficiency attenuated alcohol-induced upregulation of hepatic antioxidant enzyme genes, such as superoxide dismutase (sod) 1 and gshpx. In addition, vitamin D deficiency significantly elevated alcohol-induced upregulation of hepatic proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Taken together, these results suggest that vitamin D deficiency aggravates hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation during chronic alcohol-induced liver injury.
Duzhong Butiansu Prescription Improves Heat Stress‐Induced Spermatogenic Dysfunction by Regulating Sperm Formation and Heat Stress Pathway
Authors: Hou Ying , Yuan Peipei , Fu Yang , Zhang Qi , Wei Yaxin , Gao Liyuan , Liu Li , Wang Xiaolan , Zheng Xiaoke , Feng Weisheng
Published: February 2020

Background. Duzhong Butiansu (DZBTS) prescription contains many traditional Chinese medicines and has been shown to have a curative effect on male fertility. However, the efficacy and mechanism of DZBTS in the treatment of male infertility induced by heat stress have not been reported. The aim of the present study is to elucidate the effect and mechanism of DZBTS on spermatogenic function of a heat stress model in rats. Methods. Male Wistar rats (280–320 g) were given different doses of DZBTS (0.4853 g/kg/d or 0.9707 g/kg/d), Shengjing capsule (0.56 g/kg/d), or double distilled water for 15 days. A 43°C hot water bath for 30 minutes was used to stimulate the testis of rats. Sperm count, sperm motility, the organ index of kidney and gonadal organs, serum sex hormone levels, and serum oxidising reaction index were measured. Haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the morphology of the testis and kidney. The expression of Hsp70 in testes was observed by immunofluorescence. The changes in heat stress, reproductive‐related protein, and mRNA were measured by western blot assay and RT‐qPCR. Results. Heat stress downregulated the levels of sex hormone (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) and its receptor androgen receptor (AR) protein expression and mRNA (P < 0.01) in rats. Meanwhile, heat stress downregulated the levels of CAMP‐responsive element‐binding (CREB1) protein and mRNA (P < 0.01), which are involved with spermatogenesis. Heat stress also decreased the oxidative damage index. Furthermore, Hsp70 and the heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) protein pathway and mRNA level were overactivated (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Finally, the organ coefficients of the kidney and gonadal organs of rats were decreased. The sperm concentration and motility also decreased significantly (P < 0.01). DZBTS could recover these changes induced by heat stress. Conclusions. Our results for the first time have found that DZBTS can improve spermatogenesis disorder in a heat stress model in rats, which may be mainly by regulating AR, sperm regulatory protein CREB1, and the HSF/Hsp70 signaling pathway to decrease oxidative stress.
Assessment of Sewage Water Treatment Using Grinded Bauxite Rock as a Robust and Low-Cost Adsorption
Authors: Alshammari Mutairah Shaker
Published: February 2020

The shortage of water resources in Saudi Arabia is becoming an increasingly serious problem. Management of sewage water is an attractive option to reduce the contamination of water resources such as ground water. This work aims to use bauxite rock as a low-cost adsorbent/coagulant for sewage water treatment in a simple and rapid technique. Different doses (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 g/l) of the grinded bauxite was used as an adsorbent/coagulant. The results revealed that, at rock doses of 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 g/l, the COD concentration was decreased from 326 to 134, 98, 83, 70, and 65 mg/l, respectively, while the BOD concentration was lowered from 243 to 196, 104, 71, 60, 51, and 47 for the same rock doses. This was reflected on the turbidity of the treated effluent from each treatment step. Also, the FC counts were reduced to 2 log units. Furthermore, the dose of 3 g/l of the grinded bauxite rock was found to be the least economic dose for the treatment of sewage water. Bauxite mineral has been used explicitly in a high-performance, very affordable method for wastewater treatment.
Recombinant Erythropoietin Provides Protection against Renal Fibrosis in Adenine-Induced Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Vázquez-Méndez Estefanía , Gutiérrez-Mercado Yanet , Mendieta-Condado Edgar , Gálvez-Gastélum Francisco Javier , Esquivel-Solís Hugo , Sánchez-Toscano Yadira , Morales-Martínez Claudia , Canales-Aguirre Alejandro A. , Márquez-Aguirre Ana Laura
Published: February 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) causes anemia by renal damage. In CKD, the kidney is submitted to hypoxia, persistent inflammation, leading to fibrosis and permanent loss of renal function. Human recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO) has been widely used to treat CKD-associated anemia and is known to possess organ-protective properties that are independent from its well-established hematopoietic effects. Nonhematopoietic effects of EPO are mediated by an alternative receptor that is proposed to consist of a heterocomplex between the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and the beta common receptor (βcR). The present study explored the effects of rEPO to prevent renal fibrosis in adenine-induced chronic kidney disease (Ad-CKD) and their association with the expression of the heterodimer EPOR/βcR. Male Wistar rats were randomized to control group (CTL), adenine-fed rats (Ad-CKD), and Ad-CKD with treatment of rEPO (1050 IU/kg, once weekly for 4 weeks). Ad-CKD rats exhibited anemia, uremia, decreased renal function, increased infiltration of inflammatory cells, tubular atrophy, and fibrosis. rEPO treatment not only corrected anemia but reduced uremia and partially improved renal function as well. In addition, we observed that rEPO diminishes tubular injury, prevents fibrosis deposition, and induces the EPOR/βcR heteroreceptor. The findings may explain the extrahematopoietic effects of rEPO in CKD and provide new strategies for the treatment of renal fibrosis in CKD.
DV200 Index for Assessing RNA Integrity in Next‐Generation Sequencing
Authors: Matsubara Takehiro , Soh Junichi , Morita Mizuki , Uwabo Takahiro , Tomida Shuta , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi , Kanazawa Susumu , Toyooka Shinichi , Hirasawa Akira
Published: February 2020

Poor quality of biological samples will result in an inaccurate analysis of next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Therefore, methods to accurately evaluate sample integrity are needed. Among methods for evaluating RNA quality, the RNA integrity number equivalent (RINe) is widely used, whereas the DV200, which evaluates the percentage of fragments of >200 nucleotides, is also used as a quality assessment standard. In this study, we compared the RINe and DV200 RNA quality indexes to determine the most suitable RNA index for the NGS analysis. Seventy‐one RNA samples were extracted from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue samples (n = 30), fresh‐frozen samples (n = 25), or cell lines (n = 16). After assessing RNA quality using the RINe and DV200, we prepared two kinds of stranded mRNA sequencing libraries. Finally, we calculated the correlation between each RNA quality index and the amount of library product (1st PCR product per input RNA). The DV200 measure showed stronger correlation with the amount of library product than the RINe (R2 = 0.8208 for the DV200 versus 0.6927 for the RINe). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses revealed that the DV200 was the better marker for predicting efficient library production than the RINe using a threshold of >10 ng/ng for the amount of the 1st PCR product per input RNA (cutoff value for the RINe and DV200, 2.3 and 66.1%; area under the curve, 0.99 and 0.91; sensitivity, 82% and 92%; and specificity, 93% and 100%, respectively). Our results indicate that NGS libraries prepared using RNA samples with the DV200 value > 66.1% exhibit greater sensitivity and specificity than those prepared with the RINe values > 2.3. These findings suggest that the DV200 is superior to the RINe, especially for low‐quality RNA, because it is a more consistent assessment of the amount of the 1st NGS library product per input.
Bone Infarct as an Indicator of Acute Spinal Ischaemia
Authors: López-Viñas Laura , Quiñones-Coneo Kary Leonisa , Buenache-Espartosa Raquel , Martínez-San-Millán Juan Salvador , Lorenzo-Sanz Gustavo
Published: February 2020

Acute spinal cord infarct in childhood is extremely rare, generally secondary to spinal/cardiovascular surgery or severe vertebral injuries. However, spontaneous spinal cord infarct cases have been described. We present a clinical case of a teenager who developed an acute weakness and paraesthesia in lower limbs after playing piggyback. Laboratory tests and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) were normal. During her hospital admission, her motor strength improved. After 10 days, MRI was repeated, and a bone infarct was observed. She was medicated with acetylsalicylic acid, and she completed a rehabilitation program.
Oridonin Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced ROS Accumulation and Inflammation in HK‐2 Cells
Authors: Huang Jen-Hsuan , Lan Chou-Chin , Hsu Ya-Ting , Tsai Cheng-Lin , Tzeng I-Shiang , Wang Po , Kuo Chan-Yen , Hsieh Po-Chun
Published: February 2020

Renal tubulointerstitial inflammation plays an important role in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Inflammation reduction is a good strategy to combat CKD. Oridonin, an ent‐kaurane diterpenoid isolated from Rabdosia rubescens (Donglingcao), is considered as an effective natural candidate for the treatment of anti‐inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial activities, including liver fibrosis and many tumors; however, no study has demonstrated its effect on lipopolysaccharide‐ (LPS‐) induced renal inflammation. To investigate the anti‐inflammatory effects of oridonin on human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK‐2 cells), the expression levels of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were evaluated by Western blot analysis and 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF‐DA) staining, respectively. The level of intracellular ROS increased in a dose‐dependent manner following LPS treatment, whereas oridonin inhibited this effect, suggestive of its ability to prevent ROS accumulation. As the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) family of enzymes plays an important role in physiological responses, we examined the activation of JNK by Western blotting and found that oridonin attenuated LPS‐induced JNK phosphorylation. Oridonin also attenuated RAW 264.7 cell chemotaxis towards LPS‐treated HK‐2 cells. Taken together, oridonin protected against LPS‐induced inflammation including ROS accumulation, JNK activation, NF‐κB nuclear translocation in HK‐2 cells, and functionally blocked macrophage chemotaxis towards LPS‐treated HK‐2 cells. Oridonin may exhibit therapeutic potential by the anti‐inflammation effect in LPS‐treated HK‐2 cells.
Enhanced Vascular Smooth Muscle Calcium Sensitivity and Loss of Endothelial Vasodilator Influence Contribute to Myogenic Tone Development in Rat Radial Uterine Arteries during Gestation
Authors: Mukhtarova Narmin , Ko Nga Ling , Gokina Natalia I. , Mandalá Maurizio , Osol George
Published: February 2020

Uterine artery myogenic tone (MT) develops during pregnancy in hemochorial placentates such as rats and humans. The physiological reason for its appearance is not clear, and we reasoned that it may be a late pregnancy (LP) event in preparation for controlling hemorrhage during parturition. We also hypothesized that gestational increases in RhoA-induced vascular smooth muscle (VSM) calcium sensitivity are contributory and occur under the tonic influence of nitric oxide (NO). Second-order pre-placental radial arteries from early-pregnant (day 12, n = 5), mid-pregnant (day 16, n = 5) and LP (day 20, n = 20) rats were used in combination with arteriography, VSM calcium measurements, pharmacological RHO/Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition, and Western blotting. A subgroup of LP animals (LP + LN; n = 5) treated with L-NAME from gestational days 10 to 20 were used to determine the effects of NOS inhibition on MT and RhoA expression. MT was evident throughout pregnancy, but its expression in pressurized vessels was masked by endothelial NO-induced vasodilation during early gestation. RhoA protein expression was upregulated in LP and attenuated by in vivo NOS inhibition (as was MT). In vitro RHO/ROCK inhibition decreased MT in a concentration-dependent manner without reducing VSM calcium. In summary, pressure-dependent uterine artery tone increases with gestational age due to a combination of RhoA-mediated increases in VSM calcium sensitivity and a loss of endothelial NO influence.
Determining the Optimal Normalization Factor of Different Target Arteries for ex vivo Vascular Function Experiments: A New Standardized Procedure
Authors: Hugelshofer Michael , Deuel Jeremy W. , Buzzi Raphael M. , Humar Rok , Schaer Dominik J. , Schaer Christian A.
Published: February 2020

The standardization of resistance vessel preparation is crucial to compare physiologic vascular reactivity under different experimental conditions. Here, we describe a generalizable experimental setup for ex vivo vascular function experiments and their mathematical basis. Porcine basilar arteries and chicken common carotid arteries were isolated post mortem via standardized surgical approaches. The inner circumference of these vessels with a passive wall tension corresponding to 100 mm Hg (IC100) as well as the circumference at which the active force production of the vessel is maximal (IC1) were determined systematically. The IC1/IC100 ratio (also referred to as factor k), a value that is believed to be constant for a defined vessel type in one species, was calculated by a novel mathematical approach. Here, we present an easy-to-use toolbox for the systematic and computer-based calculation of factor k and simplified optimal pre-stretching of any vascular segments for wire myography experiments.
Educomunicação
Authors: Citelli Adilson Odair , Soares Ismar De Oliveira , Lopes Maria Immacolata Vassallo de
Published: February 2020

Este artigo procura elaborar uma reflexão acerca de desafios teóricos e metodológicos impostos à educomunicação. Enquanto área cujas práticas já estão consagradas nas inúmeras experiências levadas a termo em salas de aula, organizações não governamentais, iniciativas de grupos de pesquisa, publicações acadêmicas e livros, a educomunicação requer atenção mais detida no sentido de pensar seus próprios fundamentos. Nesse sentido, os autores indicam caminhos que podem contribuir para levar adiante essa tarefa.
Nuclear Activation Function 2 Estrogen Receptor α Attenuates Arterial and Renal Alterations Due to Aging and Hypertension in Female Mice
Authors: Guivarc'h Emmanuel , Favre Julie , Guihot Anne‐Laure , Vessières Emilie , Grimaud Linda , Proux Coralyne , Rivron Jordan , Barbelivien Agnès , Fassot Céline , Briet Marie , Lenfant Françoise , Fontaine Coralie , Loufrani Laurent , Arnal Jean‐François , Henrion Daniel
Published: February 2020

Background

The cardiovascular protective effects of estrogens in premenopausal women depend mainly on estrogen receptor α (ERα). ERα activates nuclear gene transcription regulation and membrane‐initiated signaling. The latter plays a key role in estrogen‐dependent activation of endothelial NO synthase. The goal of the present work was to determine the respective roles of the 2 ERα activities in endothelial function and cardiac and kidney damage in young and old female mice with hypertension, which is a major risk factor in postmenopausal women.

Methods and Results

Five‐ and 18‐month‐old female mice lacking either ERα (ERα
−/−
), the nuclear activating function AF2 of ERα (AF2°), or membrane‐located ERα (C451A) were treated with angiotensin II (0.5 mg/kg per day) for 1 month. Systolic blood pressure, left ventricle weight, vascular reactivity, and kidney function were then assessed. Angiotensin II increased systolic blood pressure, ventricle weight, and vascular contractility in ERα
−/−
and AF2° mice more than in wild‐type and C451A mice, independent of age. In both the aorta and mesenteric resistance arteries, angiotensin II and aging reduced endothelium‐dependent relaxation in all groups, but this effect was more pronounced in ERα
−/−
and AF2° than in the wild‐type and C451A mice. Kidney inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as blood urea and creatinine levels, were also more pronounced in old hypertensive ERα
−/−
and AF2° than in old hypertensive wild‐type and C451A mice.

Conclusions

The nuclear ERα‐AF2 dependent function attenuates angiotensin II–dependent hypertension and protects target organs in aging mice, whereas membrane ERα signaling does not seem to play a role.
Impact of Sex Difference on the Discordance of Revascularization Decision Making Between Fractional Flow Reserve and Diastolic Pressure Ratio During the Wave‐Free Period
Authors: Yonetsu Taishi , Hoshino Masahiro , Lee Tetsumin , Murai Tadashi , Sumino Yohei , Hada Masahiro , Yamaguchi Masao , Kanaji Yoshihisa , Sugiyama Tomoyo , Niida Takayuki , Matsuda Junji , Hatano Yu , Umemoto Tomoyuki , Sasano Tetsuo , Kakuta Tsunekazu
Published: February 2020

Background

Sex difference in fractional flow reserve (
FFR
) and resting index has not been fully clarified. We sought to investigate the impact of sex on the discordance of revascularization decision making between
FFR
and diastolic pressure ratio during the diastolic wave‐free period (

dPR
WFP

).

Methods and Results

A total of 759 angiographically intermediate lesions with 30% to 80% diameter stenosis by quantitative coronary angiography in 577 patients in whom
FFR
and

dPR
WFP

were measured were investigated.

dPR
WFP

was measured during the wave‐free window of 5 heart cycles at an independent core laboratory.
FFR
≤0.80 and

dPR
WFP

≤0.89 were considered positive studies. A total of 164 vessels in 126 women (21.6%) and 595 vessels in 451 men (78.4%) were included. In lesions with negative

dPR
WFP

, positive
FFR
was less frequently observed in women (13 of 73; 17.8%) than in men (97 of 286; 33.9%) (
P
=0.009). In lesions with positive

dPR
WFP

, the frequency of negative
FFR
was observed in 22 of 91 vessels (24.2%) in women and 51 of 309 vessels (16.5%) in men, which did not reach statistical significance (
P
=0.098). In multivariable analyses, female sex was independently associated with
FFR
‐

dPR
WFP

discordance both in negative

dPR
WFP

cohort (odds ratio, 0.44; 95%
CI
, 0.21–0.98;
P
=0.036) and in positive

dPR
WFP

cohort (odds ratio, 2.41; 95%
CI
, 1.17–4.96;
P
=0.017) after adjustment for age, weight, quantitative coronary angiography data, and baseline physiological indexes.

Conclusions

The frequency of
FFR
‐

dPR
WFP

discordance was significantly associated with sex, which may indicate potential shift of optimal threshold of either
FFR
or

dPR
WFP

, or both of them, according to sex.
A Nest for Art and Science
Authors: Pérez-Gallego Jorge , Espelie Erin , Knight Tara
Published: February 2020

Forming part of the University of Colorado Boulder’s Grand Challenge initiative, the Nature, Environment, Science & Technology (NEST) Studio for the Arts is a new endeavor that explores the interrelation, generative overlaps and productive differences between the sciences and the arts by means of exhibitions, student work, lectures, panels, courses and events. Operationally launched in the summer of 2018, NEST seeks efforts that engage with central questions regarding alternative and constructive ways of passing information and methodologies back and forth between the two worlds. Efforts such as these are key to advancing cross-disciplinary efforts in siloed campuses across the nation.
Identity-Based Crossmodal Negative Priming: Aftereffects of Ignoring in One Sensory Modality on Responding to Another Sensory Modality
Authors: Wesslein Ann-Katrin , Frings Christian
Published: February 2020

Negative Priming (NP) refers to the phenomenon that responses towards previously ignored stimuli, as compared to new stimuli, are impaired. That is, NP is reflected in the performance on the probe display of a prime–probe sequence. NP is established in vision, audition and touch. In the current study, we presented participants with auditory, visual, and tactile manifestations of the same temporal patterns in order to measure NP across the senses. On each trial, the sensory modality shifted from the prime to the probe. Each prime and probe display consisted of a target and a distractor stimulus, presented to the same sensory modality. On some trials, the prime distractor repeated as probe target (ignored-repetition trials), on other trials the probe stimuli had not been involved in the prime display (control trials). We observed NP between audition and touch (Experiment 1) and between vision and audition (Experiment 2). These findings indicate that the processes underpinning NP can operate at an amodal, postperceptual level.
The Fossil Birds of Peter Lund
Authors: NASCIMENTO RAFAEL , SILVEIRA LUÍS FÁBIO
Published: February 2020

The Danish naturalist Peter Wilhelm Lund (1801–1880), regarded as the father of Brazilian palaeontology and archaeology, is known mainly for his work with fossil mammals of Quaternary age from the limestone caves of the Lagoa Santa region in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. However, during one decade of fieldwork (1835–1844), he also collected a large number of remains of other animal groups from these caves. Birds were well represented and, following assessment by the Danish ornithologist Oluf Winge (1855–1889), most of the specimens collected by Lund belong to species still living in the area. Here we present an overview of the bird remains (fossil and recent), found by Lund and others in the region, we update their taxonomic attributions, and comment on the history of the material, making information previously published only in Danish available in English.
Diplomacy and the Settlement of International Trade Disputes
Authors: Gray Julia , Potter Philip
Published: February 2020

How do countries settle disputes in the shadow of the law? Even in the presence of legalized dispute settlement, countries still rely on diplomatic channels to resolve conflicts. But it can be difficult to assess diplomacy’s impact on dispute resolution because those channels tend to be opaque. We present both an original theory of the impact of diplomacy on dispute resolution and a novel measure of diplomacy. If countries with close or, conversely, distant relationships use legal channels for dispute resolution, diplomacy will have little impact on dispute settlement; resorting to legal recourse among friends or adversaries likely means that the dispute is intractable. However, diplomacy can increase the chances of settlement between countries with moderate levels of affinity. We test this argument using a protocol-based proxy for diplomatic interactions—gifts given at the occasion of meetings between diplomatic counterparts—that would otherwise be difficult to observe. Using the case of the United States and its disputes in the World Trade Organization, we find support for our argument. This suggests that even when countries resort to legalized methods of dispute settlement, bilateral dealmaking still plays an important role.
Members’ perceptions of governance in agricultural cooperatives: Evidence from Spain
Authors: Lucas-Martínez Gabriel , Martín-Ugedo Juan Francisco , Minguez-Vera Antonio
Published: February 2020

This article examines some aspects related to perceptions of agricultural cooperative members. Most arguments employed are based on agency and property rights theories. The sample consists of 196 satisfaction surveys completed by agricultural cooperative members and accounting information from Spanish cooperatives. The results show that when members do not perceive any serious agency problems, the performance of the firm is higher. We also find that members are not discouraged from investing by awareness of the free-rider problem, and the less risk averse members are, the higher is the long-term debt ratio. Finally, members’ perceptions of the time horizon problem have no impact on the time frame for investment.
Book review: Harmony Siganporia, I am the Widow: An Intellectual Biography of Behramji Malabari
Authors: Bal Gurpreet
Published: February 2020

Harmony Siganporia, I am the Widow: An Intellectual Biography of Behramji Malabari. Hyderabad: Orient BlackSwan Pvt. Ltd, 2018, xxi + 280 pp. (hardback). ISBN: 978-93-5287-390-6.
European history and war: The case-study of the eighteenth century
Authors: Black Jeremy
Published: February 2020

A widely-relevant consideration of conceptual and methodological points in military history drawing on the case-study of ancien régime European warfare and the impact of the French Revolution.
The dimensions of streaming: toward a typology of an evolving concept
Authors: Spilker Hendrik Storstein , Colbjørnsen Terje
Published: February 2020

Based on research on the development of streaming solutions across media forms and industries, this article traces the dynamics and dimensions of the notion of streaming. It theorizes streaming as an evolving concept, and argues against strict, set and limited definitions such as those suggested by Lotz and Herbert et al. A short substantive and industrial history of streaming is provided, recognizing its many manifestations and variations. Five key dimensions are identified, and trends and traits within each of them discussed: (1) professional versus user-generated streaming, (2) legal versus piracy streaming, (3) on-demand versus live streaming, (4) streaming on dedicated versus multi-feature platforms, and (5) niche versus general-audience streaming. The article concludes by pointing out how streaming is a concept that metaphorically unites media research across industries, practices, and media forms, encouraging more comparative research.
A Multinational Study of Teachers’ Codes of Ethics: Attitudes of Educational Leaders
Authors: Shapira-Lishchinsky Orly
Published: February 2020

The study aimed to elicit a universally accepted meaning of “ethical practice in school” from teachers’ codes of ethics formulated by educational leaders including school principals, the nation’s government, and teachers’ union representatives. Analysis was based on a random sample of 30 codes of ethics in various countries using a qualitative methodology. The findings generated a multidimensional model. School principals’ access to this model may advance making decisions that foster an ethical school environment worldwide.
Visualising the expansion and spread of coronavirus disease 2019 by cartograms
Authors: Gao Peichao , Zhang Hong , Wu Zhiwei , Wang Jicheng
Published: February 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a growing focus of global attention and a critical factor in public-health decision making. Towards fighting the COVID-19 outbreak, countries worldwide and international organisations have taken various actions, including promoting the transparency of and public access to disease data. In such public communications, maps have played an important role in that a map is worth a thousand words. Most of these have taken the form of a choropleth map. Here, we propose employing cartograms to visualise both the expansion and spread of COVID-19. We designed a combination of six circular cartograms containing the data of confirmed cases every 48 hours from 24 January to 3 February 2020. Such a design conveys both spatial and temporal information more intuitively and efficiently, so it can be expected to facilitate better public participation in the fight against COVID-19.
Neuroimmune mechanisms of pain: Basic science and potential therapeutic modulators
Authors: Lim Jessica SY , Kam Peter CA
Published: February 2020

This narrative review aims to describe the role of peripheral and central immune responses to tissue and nerve damage in animal models, and to discuss the use of immunomodulatory agents in clinical practice and their perioperative implications. Animal models of pain have demonstrated that nerve injury activates immune signalling pathways that drive aberrant sensory processes, resulting in neuropathic and chronic pain. This response involves the innate immune system. T lymphocytes are also recruited. Glial cells surrounding the damaged nerves release cytokines and proinflammatory mediators that activate resident immune cells and recruit circulatory immune cells. Toll-like receptors on the glial cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of chronic pain. Animal models indicate an immune mechanism of neuropathic pain. Analgesic drugs and anaesthetic agents have varied effects on the neuroimmune interface. Evidence of a neuroimmune interaction is mainly from animal studies. Human studies are required to evaluate the clinical implications of this neuroimmune interaction.
Gaming the System: Christian Leisure, the Imago Dei, and the Formational Influence of Video Games
Authors: Rhea Rob , Auxier John
Published: February 2020

The world of video gaming is increasingly exerting a formative influence on the world. This paper provides a brief overview of the scale and scope of gaming today. Next, it examines how gaming is an expression of leisure, cultural engagement, and Sabbath. The paper will go on to take an extended look at the theological and formational implications of gaming including the will, personal agency, and implications of the imago Dei in the domain of avatars.
Beyond Forecasting: Using a Modified Delphi Method to Build Upon Participatory Action Research in Developing Principles for a Just and Inclusive Energy Transition
Authors: Revez Alexandra , Dunphy Niall , Harris Clodagh , Mullally Gerard , Lennon Breffní , Gaffney Christine
Published: February 2020

Energy transition debates have been characterized by a strong emphasis on the technical implications of shifting away from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, with little consideration of social contexts. This is now changing, with a growing emphasis on reconfiguring the social aspects of energy, particularly in terms of introducing more democratic processes into behavior change and energy practice engagements. This article situates itself within these debates and demonstrates the transformative potential of combining participatory action research (PAR) approaches with a modified Delphi method for understanding energy transition issues, particularly beyond forecasting instruments. There remains a dearth in literature combining the Delphi method with PAR; its application in the field of energy transitions is very innovative. PAR draws from grassroots and local-based knowledge, Delphi panels typically focus on the insights from a panel of professional experts. In combining these two approaches, to develop principles for an inclusive and just energy transition, a reflexive form of dialogue emerges that gives voice to what are often considered dissonant or mismatched perspectives. Furthermore, the experimental use of a modified Delphi panel, combined with PAR, offers a strategy to promote knowledge sharing between different groups and to counter potential communication barriers among different actors in society. This article shows how a modified Delphi panel approach is considerably enhanced by combining elements of PAR, raising the potential of Delphi panels beyond forecasting instruments, which often seek to determine the way the future “will be,” toward an envisioning tool that collaboratively seeks to explore the way a low-carbon system “could be,” or perhaps “should be.” The development of energy transition principles, endorsed through the modified Delphi panel, offers a concrete way to enact practices of energy justice within a more democratized energy system.
List-level control in the flanker task
Authors: Bugg Julie M , Gonthier Corentin
Published: February 2020

Current theories posit multiple levels of cognitive control for resolving conflict, including list-level control: the global or proactive biasing of attention across a list of trials. However, to date, evidence for pure list-level control has largely been confined to the Stroop task. Our goals were twofold: (a) test the generality of theoretical accounts by seeking evidence for list-level control in the letter flanker task, using an established method involving diagnostic items, and investigating the conditions under which list-level control may and may not be observed and (b) develop and test a potential solution to the challenge of isolating list-level control in tasks with a relatively limited set of stimuli and responses such as arrow flanker. Our key findings were that list-level control was observed for the first time in a letter flanker task on diagnostic items (Experiment 1), and it was not observed when the design was altered to encourage learning and use of simple stimulus–response associations (Experiment 2). These findings support the generalisability of current theoretical accounts positing dual-mechanisms or multiple levels of control, and the associations as antagonists to control account positing that list-level control may be a last resort, to conflict tasks besides Stroop. List-level control was also observed in the arrow flanker task using a modified design (Experiment 3), which could be extended to other conflict tasks with limited sets of stimuli (four or fewer), although this solution is not entirely free of confounds.
The impact of progesterone receptor expression on prognosis of patients with rapidly proliferating, hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer: a post hoc analysis of the IBIS 3 trial
Authors: Bravaccini Sara , Bronte Giuseppe , Scarpi Emanuela , Ravaioli Sara , Maltoni Roberta , Mangia Anita , Tumedei Maria Maddalena , Puccetti Maurizio , Serra Patrizia , Gianni Lorenzo , Amaducci Laura , Biglia Nicoletta , Bounous Valentina , Paradiso Angelo Virgilio , Silvestrini Rosella , Amadori Dino , Rocca Andrea
Published: February 2020

Background:

In the Italian Breast Cancer Intergroup Studies (IBIS) 3 phase III trial, we compared cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil (CMF) alone to sequential epirubicin/CMF regimens in patients with rapidly proliferating early breast cancer (RPEBC). We performed a post hoc analysis in the subgroup of patients with hormone-receptor-positive RPEBC on the prognostic role of progesterone receptor (PgR) status.

Methods:

RPEBC was defined by thymidine labeling index (TLI) >3% or grade 3 or S-phase >10% or Ki67 >20%. We analyzed 466 patients with hormone-receptor-positive RPEBC receiving sequential epirubicin/CMF regimens followed by tamoxifen, and for whom the status of ER and PgR was available.

Results:

Considering both cut-off values of 10% and 20%, PgR expression was significantly associated with age, menopausal status, and ER expression; HER2 status was associated with PgR status only at a cutoff value of 20% PgR. Upon univariate analysis, tumor size, nodal status, and PgR were significantly associated with disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), while age class and local treatment type were associated only with DFS. Patients with PgR <20% showed lower 5- and 10-year DFS [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.01–2.18; p = 0.044] and OS (HR = 1.85; 95%CI: 1.08–3.19, p = 0.025) rates compared with patients with PgR ⩾20%. Upon multivariate analysis, only tumor size, nodal status, and PgR were independent prognostic factors.

Conclusions:

Our results highlight the independent prognostic relevance of PgR expression in patients with hormone-receptor-positive RPEBC treated with adjuvant chemotherapy and endocrine therapy, where the definition of prognostic subgroups is still a major need.
Albumin: Indications in chronic liver disease
Authors: Tufoni Manuel , Zaccherini Giacomo , Caraceni Paolo , Bernardi Mauro
Published: February 2020

Albumin is currently employed as a plasma expander to prevent and treat specific complications of cirrhosis with ascites, such as the prevention of paracentesis‐induced circulatory dysfunction and renal dysfunction induced by spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of acute kidney injury and hepatorenal syndrome. Recently, evidence has shown that long‐term albumin administration in patients with decompensated cirrhosis reduces mortality and incidence of complications, eases the management of ascites, is cost effective, and has a good safety profile.
Radiological and clinical evaluation of synthetic reinforcement in arthroscopic repair of complete degenerative rotator cuff tears
Authors: Boyer Etienne , Gasse Nicolas , Mataillet Jérome , Obert Laurent , Gallinet David
Published: February 2020

Background:

Rotator cuff tear is the most common shoulder pathology in adults over 45 years of age. In most instances they are chronic and degenerative. The high rate of re- tears after primary repair has led to the use of reinforcement systems such as patches. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a synthetic poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) reinforcement patch in arthroscopic repair of degenerative rotator cuff tears.

Methods:

sixty patients with degenerative, reducible, full thickness supraspinatus tear were repaired with an arthroscopic single-row technique with or without the BioFiber® reinforcement system (Wright medical). A clinical evaluation with measurement of active range of motion, calculation of Constant and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV) scores and ultrasound evaluation of healing were performed one year postoperatively.

Results:

Thirty patients were treated with a patch and thirty others formed the control group without a patch. The postoperative adjusted Constant score was 102 % in the patch group (PG) and 101 % in the control group (CG) (P = 0.6670). The postoperative SSV score was 81% in the PG and 88% in the CG (P = 0.029). The ultrasound healing rate was better in the PG and there was no re-tear in this group (P = 0.049).

Conclusion:

The interposition of the P4HB BioFiber® patch does not seem to provide any added functional value despite the effectiveness in terms of healing in the repair of degenerative, reducible complete tear of the supraspinatus tendon.
Varieties in Comparative Capitalisms Research: A Critical Juncture
Authors: Šitera Daniel
Published: February 2020

This article addresses Richard Westra, Ian Bruff and Matthias Ebenau's responses to my prior review essay on their edited volumes. In my initial survey, I concluded that both volumes reinvigorate the radical potential of contemporary Comparative Capitalisms (CC) literatures, but warned against the tendency in critical research to trace capitalism solely at its worst. I posited that this pessimism undermines the volumes’ pedagogical potential and threatens to bring us to intellectual cul-de-sacs. The authors respond in different ways to this critical engagement: Westra provides a guideline to trace such an intellectual pessimism in the (neo-)Marxist political economy and points to the so-called ‘Uno approach’ as an alternative direction that opens our intellectual horizons to social change in (post-)capitalism. In contrast, Bruff and Ebenau regard my review as less monochromatic than other discussions of their research project but nevertheless assertively retort to my critique. This reply seeks to engage the aforementioned scholars in a discussion, while reconsidering the alleged pessimism of critical CC research as informed optimism. Such informed optimism must be found in a critical research that (i) is based on a deeper reflexive theoretical discussion rather than a one-sided deconstruction of mainstream scholarship; and (ii) derives from a holistic approach broadened by a human-centred perspective, which also exposes us to actually existing alternatives within as well as to (post-)capitalism. Given that such approaches are currently only implicit, the many ongoing crises of contemporary capitalism represent a critical juncture not only for mainstream, but also for critical CC research.
Great Expectations: The EU's Social Role as a Great Power Manager
Authors: Mccourt David M. , Glencross Andrew
Published: February 2020

Through the case of EU foreign and security policy we reconsider the concept of great power. According to common wisdom, the EU cannot be a great power, whatever the pronouncements of its top officials may be. We argue that ‘great power’ has been miscast in IR theory as a status rather than as a social role, and, consequently, that the EU can indeed be viewed as playing the great power role. Such a conceptual shift moves analytical attention away from questions of what the EU is – ‘big’, ‘small’, ‘great’, and so on – to what it is expected to do in international politics. We focus on the expectation that great powers engage in the management of the international system, assessing the EU as a great power manager in two senses: first, in the classical sense of ‘great power management’ of Hedley Bull – which centers on great powers’ creation of regional spheres of influence and the maintenance of the general balance of power – and second, in light of recent corrections to Bull's approach by Alexander Astrov and others, who suggest great power management has changed toward a logic of governmentality, i.e. ‘conducting the conduct’ of lesser states.
Neurovascular changes in magnetic resonance imagining and single-photon emission computed tomography during migraine attack in patients with FHM2 mutations
Authors: Nagai Azusa , Tanaka Daiki , Kuroshima Kiyomi , Ura Shigehisa , Yoshida Kazuto , Takahashi Yuji , Yabe Ichiro
Published: February 2020

The aim of this article is to provide neuroimaging data on cases with familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM). A 14-year-old male presented normal diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) findings during his first hemiplegic migraine attack. However, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) showed diffuse narrowing of the right middle cerebral artery. Cerebral blood flow–single-photon emission computed tomography showed right hypoperfusion. A follow-up study showed no abnormal findings. His mother had normal DWI, FLAIR, and MRA findings during her migraine attack. Both patients were diagnosed with FHM2 (p.R763H mutation in ATP1A2). This study highlights the importance of neurovascular examinations during the FHM2 headache phase. Further cases are required to clarify the pathophysiology of migraine.
Correction to: A comparison of methods to estimate the survivor average causal effect in the presence of missing data: a simulation study
Authors: McGuinness Myra B. , Kasza Jessica , Karahalios Amalia , Guymer Robyn H. , Finger Robert P. , Simpson Julie A.
Published: February 2020

In the original publication of this article [1], the incorrect causal diagram was submitted as Fig. 1.