bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate electoral donations and tax aggressiveness
Authors: Lopo Martinez Antonio , Telles Hettore Sias , Chiachio Viviane
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether companies that donate to winning electoral campaigns are more aggressive in terms of tax planning than companies that do not make these contributions. The relationship between politicians and companies may be signaled by political connections in which companies try to get political benefits in exchange for providing politicians with campaign financing. The hypothesis is that a quid pro quo occurs in which these companies benefit from favorable tax treatment that reduces their relative tax burden.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus of this study is donations that were made in the presidential elections of 2010 and 2014. The sample covers the period between 2010 and 2016 for companies listed on the B3 Stock Exchange, using proxies for tax aggressiveness computed based on value-added reporting. Through linear regressions, the authors have tested whether the companies that made these campaign contributions tend to have a lower tax burden.

Findings

The proposed hypothesis was confirmed, revealing that a political connection between campaign donations reduces the tax burden for donating companies during the years following the election. These donations appear to depict an environment characterized by an exchange of favors in which the donating companies exhibit greater tax aggressiveness than non-donating companies.

Originality/value

The current study deals with a subject that has not yet been examined empirically in Brazil and reinforces the position adopted by the Supreme Court in prohibiting campaign donations to inhibit quid pro quo practices. The study offers additional arguments for the criminalization of the so-called “second set of books” used to record electoral campaign contributions.
Pseudo green players and their greenwashing practices: a differentiating strategy for real green firms of personal care category
Authors: Jog Deepti , Singhal Divya
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a view point on greenwashing practices used by pseudo green players to gain competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a description of various tactics of greenwashing and suggest some strategies for real green companies to differentiate themselves.

Findings

Although there is a huge market available for green products, greenwashing brings a tough challenge for real green companies. This paper highlights various tactics used by pseudo green players to get competitive advantage with minimum green effort.

Practical implications

Real green companies are not able to differentiate themselves and thus lose market share.

Originality/value

The paper offers some strategies to tackle the challenges posed by greenwashing behavior.
Adaptive specialization and constraint in morphological defences of planktonic larvae
Authors: Bashevkin Samuel M. , Christy John H. , Morgan Steven G.
Published: October 2019

Morphological defences of plankton can include armour, spines and coloration. Spines defend from gape‐limited fish predators, while pigmentation increases visibility to fishes but defends from ultraviolet radiation (UVR).

Planktonic crab larvae (zoeae) exhibit inter‐ and intraspecific variability in the lengths of defensive spines, extent of pigmentation and body size. The determinants of this variability and the relationships among these traits are largely unknown.

Larvae may employ generalized defences against the dual threats of UVR and predation or specialized defences against their primary threat, with an unknown role of allometric or phylogenetic constraints. Generalization would result in longer spines compensating for the increased predation risk imposed by darker pigments, while specialization would lead to more investment in either defence from predation (long spines) or UVR (dark pigments), at the expense of the other trait.

We examined (a) the relationship between spine lengths and pigmentation, (b) the scaling of spine lengths with body size, and (c) phylogenetic constraint in spine lengths, pigmentation, and body size, among and within 21 species of laboratory‐hatched and 23 species of field‐collected crab larvae from Panama and California.

We found a negative relationship between spine length and pigmentation among species from laboratory and field. Within species, we found a marginally significant negative relationship among field‐collected larvae.

Spine lengths showed positive allometric scaling with carapace length, while spine and carapace lengths, but not pigmentation, had significant phylogenetic signals.

The negative relationship we observed between pigmentation and spine length supports our defence specialization hypothesis.

Positive allometric scaling of spine lengths means larger larvae are better defended from predators, which may indicate that larvae face greater predation risk as they grow larger.

Phylogenetic constraint may have arisen because related species encounter similar predation threats. Conversely, phylogenetic constraint in the evolution of spine lengths may induce convergent behaviours resulting in related species facing similar predation threats.

Our results improve understanding of the evolution of the larval morphology of crabs, morphological defences in the plankton and evolutionary responses of morphology to multiple spatially segregated selective forces.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Feasibility of increasing the dosage of inpatient occupational therapy and physiotherapy rehabilitation via independent tasks and exercises: ‘My Therapy’
Authors: Brusco Natasha K. , Tilley Louise , Walpole Brianna , Kugler Helen , Li Ran , Kennedy Emma , Morris Meg E.
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The dosage of occupational therapy and physiotherapy positively correlates with rehabilitation patient and health service outcomes. Nevertheless, increasing the dosage during inpatient rehabilitation without additional resources can be challenging. This study aimed to determine feasibility of increasing the dosage of inpatient occupational therapy and physiotherapy rehabilitation with independent tasks and exercises outside of supervised sessions, the ‘My Therapy’ programme.

Methods

A two‐group, quasi‐experimental, pre–post‐design examined feasibility of delivering My Therapy in addition to usual care, compared to usual care alone, for hospitalised musculoskeletal and frail older rehabilitation patients. My Therapy was prescribed by the occupational therapist and physiotherapist. A booklet was provided with an individually tailored set of tasks and exercises that were a sub‐set of routine therapy, to be practised safely, effectively and independently outside of supervised sessions. The primary outcome was feasibility of My Therapy implementation to achieve at least 70% adherence. Secondary outcomes were self‐reported daily My Therapy participation (minutes), total daily rehabilitation participation (minutes), adverse events, length of stay, 10‐metre walk speed, FIM scores and discharge destination.

Results

Participation in My Therapy was achieved by 72% (83/116) of the My Therapy group, who averaged 14 min (SD 14) of daily practice outside of supervised sessions. Total daily rehabilitation participation was 177 min (SD 47) for My Therapy participants (n = 116) and 148 min (SD 88) for usual care participants (n = 89); mean difference 30 min (p = .00). A minimal clinically important difference in FIM was achieved for a significantly higher portion of the My Therapy group (22%, n = 26) compared to usual care (10%, n = 9; p = .02). There were no adverse events, safety concerns or group differences for other secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

My Therapy was a feasible and safe way to increase the dosage of inpatient occupational therapy and physiotherapy rehabilitation via independent practice. Clinical Trial Registry: ACTRN12616000691448.
Worth Restoring? Taking Stock of the Northern Ireland Assembly
Authors: Haughey Sean
Published: October 2019

The ongoing and almost record‐breaking hiatus in devolved government in Northern Ireland has brought the sustainability of the region's Assembly into sharp focus. As parties in Northern Ireland consider their options for restoring (and possibly reforming) the devolved institutions, this article takes stock of the Northern Ireland Assembly's merits and demerits. It is argued that, amidst the public's understandable exasperation with the current stalemate, it is easy to forget that the Assembly operated for a decade without suspension (2007–2017) and performed some functions reasonably well. This, of course, is not to detract from the institution's serious shortcomings, though it is argued that the worst of these could be mitigated via institutional reform. Crucially, institutional inertia is not an option. Should parties fail to address the need for institutional reform, commentators may well be right to question whether the Assembly is worth restoring.
Revisiting the pharmaceuticalisation of pandemic influenza using Lukes’ framework of power
Authors: Mulinari Shai , Vilhelmsson Andreas
Published: October 2019

The power of social actors to drive or block pharmaceutical uptake has been a concern in sociological debates on pharmaceuticalisation, including in the case of pandemic vaccination. We build on Steven Lukes’ three‐dimensional view of power to explore the 2009 H1N1 pandemic vaccination in Sweden and Denmark – two similar countries that arrived at conflicting vaccination strategies. Drawing on interviews with members of each country's pandemic steering group and on document analysis, we explore three consecutive stages of pandemic vaccination response: planning, vaccine procurement and the vaccination campaign. The paper makes two contributions to studies of pharmaceuticalisation and pandemics. Conceptually, we advocate the suitability of Lukes’ framework over the ‘countervailing powers’ framework repeatedly used to model power in the pharmaceutical field. Empirically, our study confirms that government‐appointed experts steered pandemic planning in both countries, but we show that the state, industry and the WHO also exerted power by enabling and constraining experts’ decision‐making, including by keeping some information secret. Furthermore, we argue that mass vaccination in Sweden was a pervasive expression of state power, in Lukes’ sense, since it rested on keeping latent the tension between many individuals’ health interests and the state's interests in protecting social and economic functioning.
Cutaneous melanoma associated with naevi prevalence: A 15‐year cross‐sectional retrospective study
Authors: Scalvenzi Massimiliano , Megna Matteo , Costa Claudia , Fabbrocini Gabriella , Villani Alessia , Greco Vincenzo
Published: October 2019

Background/Objectives

Melanoma may develop de novo or naevus associated (NAM). The exact prevalence and features of NAM are not fully elucidated.

Methods

A 15‐year cross‐sectional retrospective study was performed of all melanoma cases diagnosed and treated at the skin cancer centre of the University of Naples Federico II from September 2003 to August 2018. Data collected included patient's age, gender, melanoma anatomic site, Breslow thickness, and histolopathology including melanoma‐associated lesion characteristics.

Results

A total of 1986 melanomas were included in the study. Based on histolopathogical examination, NAM represented 8.4% (n = 167) with de novo melanoma representing the great majority of the melanomas (91.6%). NAM was significantly more common in younger age compared to de novo melamoma (mean age 48 ± 14.9 vs 54.3 ± 15.9 years, P < 0.001), and more frequently involved the trunk (62.3% vs 51.8% P = 0.01). Mean Breslow thickness was significantly higher in de novo melanoma  compared to NAM (0.97 ± 1.48 mm vs 0.83 ± 0.95, P < 0.001). However, in situ melanoma was more commonly observed in de novo melanoma (n = 640, 35.2%) rather than NAM (n = 41, 24.5%; P < 0.01) whereas invasive melanoma represented 75.5% (n = 126) of NAM and 64.8% (n = 1179) of de novo melanoma, P < 0.01.

Conclusions

NAM represent a small percentage of melanomas (8.4%) compared to de novo melanoma. NAM appeared to be significantly more common in younger age and more frequently involved the trunk, being associated with an overall better prognosis, due to a lower mean Breslow thickness respect to de novo melanoma.
A selective sulphur‐containing colorimetric chemosensor for Cu2+
Authors: Lee Hangyul , Kim Cheal
Published: October 2019

A highly selective sulphur‐containing colorimetric chemosensor APTS ((E)‐2‐(tert‐butyl)‐6‐(((2‐(phenylthio)phenyl)imino)methyl)phenol) was synthesised for detecting Cu2+. APTS showed a clear colour change from colourless to yellow with Cu2+. The detection limit of APTS for Cu2+ was 0.52 μmol/L. APTS could also be used as a test strip for detecting Cu2+. To understand the binding mode of APTS with Cu2+, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy and electrospray ionisation‐mass spectrometry analyses were conducted. The sensing mechanism of sensor APTS towards Cu2+ was proposed to be the combination of intramolecular charge transfer and ligand‐to‐metal charge‐transfer through theoretical calculations.
Enhanced indicator species performance with increasing contextualization
Authors: Bried Jason T. , Fouts Tommi S. , Jog Suneeti K.
Published: October 2019

Indicator species need context to perform optimally for conservation purposes. If indicator potential is context‐dependent, then indicators should improve with increasing spatial‐environmental stratification. We tested this hypothesis by hierarchically stratifying a species combinations matrix (plants and wetlands) using regionalization and site typology and analyzing class specificity and occupancy rate for indicators shared across strata. Performance of indicators collectively improved with increased sample stratification providing greater spatial‐environmental context. Carefully considered sample classification schemes could strengthen the value of indicator species for monitoring biodiversity loss, environmental change, and management progress. However, the better accuracy of context‐specific indicators will have to be weighed against the practical need for fewer broad‐based indicators.
Improving the Measurement of School Climate Using Item Response Theory
Authors: Lindstrom Johnson Sarah , Reichenberg Ray E. , Shukla Kathan , Waasdorp Tracy E. , Bradshaw Catherine P.
Published: October 2019

The U.S. government has become increasingly focused on school climate, as recently evidenced by its inclusion as an accountability indicator in the Every Student Succeeds Act. Yet, there remains considerable variability in both conceptualizing and measuring school climate. To better inform the research and practice related to school climate and its measurement, we leveraged item response theory (IRT), a commonly used psychometric approach for the design of achievement assessments, to create a parsimonious measure of school climate that operates across varying individual characteristics. Students (n = 69,513) in 111 secondary schools completed a school climate assessment focused on three domains of climate (i.e., safety, engagement, and environment), as defined by the U.S. Department of Education. Item and test characteristics were estimated using the mirt package in R using unidimensional IRT. Analyses revealed measurement difficulties that resulted in a greater ability to assess less favorable perspectives on school climate. Differential item functioning analyses indicated measurement differences based on student academic success. These findings support the development of a broad measure of school climate but also highlight the importance of work to ensure precision in measuring school climate, particularly when considering use as an accountability measure.
The mitochondrial NO‐synthase/guanylate cyclase/protein kinase G signaling system underpins the dual effects of nitric oxide on mitochondrial respiration and opening of the permeability transition pore
Authors: Dynnik Vladimir V. , Grishina Elena V. , Fedotcheva Nadezhda I.
Published: October 2019

The available data on the involvement of nitric oxide (NO) and mitochondrial calcium‐dependent NO synthase (mtNOS) in the control of mitochondrial respiration and the permeability transition pore (mPTP) are contradictory. We have proposed that the mitochondrial mtNOS/guanylate cyclase/protein kinase G signaling system (mtNOS‐SS) is also implicated in the control of respiration and mPTP, providing the interplay between NO and mtNOS‐SS, which, in turn, may result in inconsistent effects of NO. Therefore, using rat liver mitochondria, we applied specific inhibitors of the enzymes of this signaling system to evaluate its role in the control of respiration and mPTP opening. Steady‐state respiration was supported by pyruvate, glutamate, or succinate in the presence of hexokinase, glucose, and ADP. When applied at low concentrations, l‐arginine (to 500 µm) and NO donors (to 50 µm) activated the respiration and increased the threshold concentrations of calcium and d,l‐palmitoylcarnitine required for the dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential and pore opening. Both effects were eliminated by the inhibitors of NO synthase, guanylate cyclase, and kinase G, which denotes the involvement of mtNOS‐SS in the activation of respiration and deceleration of mPTP opening. At high concentrations, l‐arginine and NO donors inhibited the respiration and promoted pore opening, indicating that adverse effects induced by an NO excess dominate over the protection provided by mtNOS‐SS. Thus, these results demonstrate the opposite impact of NO and mtNOS‐SS on the respiration and mPTP control, which can explain the dual effects of NO.
HOUSEHOLD SAVING, FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS, AND THE CURRENT ACCOUNT IN CHINA
Authors: İmrohoroğlu Ayşe , Zhao Kai
Published: October 2019

In this article, we present a model that can account for the changes in the current account balance in China since the 2000s. Our results suggest that inadequate insurance through government programs for the elderly and the decline in family insurance due to the one‐child policy led to large increases in the household saving rate. These increases coupled with the financial frictions preventing the household saving from being invested in domestic firms resulted in large current account surpluses until 2008. Relaxation of financial constraints, on the other hand, was responsible for the decline in the current account surplus after 2008.
On the heterogeneous short‐term effects of minimum wages on labor demand
Authors: Correa Juan A. , Parro Francisco
Published: October 2019

A strand of the literature documents no effects or even positive effects of a higher minimum wage on employment. This evidence is frequently linked to the existence of monopsonistic labor markets or search frictions. However, empirical studies show that these findings could be related to a low short‐term minimum wage–employment elasticity in a competitive labor market. We show that mixed theoretical employment effects of a minimum wage policy can be predicted in the short term in assignment economies with price‐taker agents and no search frictions.
Secondary prevention of ischaemic stroke
Authors: Muller Claire , Roizman Michael , Wong Andrew
Published: October 2019

Recent trials within the past few years have influenced not only how we treat patients immediately after acute ischaemic stroke, but also how we investigate for aetiology. With the advent of improved medications, procedures and monitoring devices, modern stroke prevention strategies are more individualised, but the decision‐making process is more complex. We provide an approach to navigating these management options.
When Is One Plus One More Than Two? Theory and Evidence of Merger Motivations
Authors: Chung Chune Young , Hur Seok‐Kyun , Liu Chang
Published: October 2019

We devise a neoclassical economic model that reveals the underlying motivations for mergers, without resorting to distorted firm decisions or stock market inefficiency. Using empirical analyses to verify the model's predictions, we discover that mergers are more likely in economic booms than in recessions. Furthermore, we assert that a firm with insufficient physical capital is likely a bidder in a merger, whereas a firm with large physical capital is likely a target. Our findings are largely consistent with the waves of mergers during economic booms and the theory on operational synergies.
Combustion synthesis of single‐phase Al4SiC4 powder with assistance of induction heating
Authors: Gubarevich Anna V. , Watanabe Tsubasa , Nishimura Toshiyuki , Yoshida Katsumi
Published: October 2019

Ternary aluminum silicon carbide Al4SiC4 is a promising material not only in refractory applications, but also in electronics and photocatalysis. However, synthesis of Al4SiC4 requires high‐temperature heat treatment for several hours. In this work, we describe a new, fast and effective method to synthesize single‐phase Al4SiC4 powder. Our method is based on combustion synthesis reaction of Al, Si and C initiated under high‐frequency induction heating. Heating program was optimized to prevent separation of melted aluminum and provide uniform initiation, propagation and completion of the reaction. As a result, pure‐phase Al4SiC4 powder was synthesized in few minutes. Temperature profile of a sample measured during heating process showed appearance of two exothermic peaks, thus confirming propagation of a two‐step combustion reaction. Induction heating provided capability to finely and readily control external heating rate, which is considered to be one of the key factors to reach high‐purity Al4SiC4.
Combustion synthesis of well‐dispersed rod‐like β‐Si3N4 crystals by the addition of carbon
Authors: Zhang Jie , Cui Wei , Tian Zhaobo , Sun Siyuan , Chen Kexin , Liu Guanghua
Published: October 2019

The well‐dispersed rod‐like β‐Si3N4 crystals have been prepared by combustion synthesis with the addition of carbon. The added carbon helps to separate Si particles and remove the SiO2 oxide layer, and thus reduces the agglomeration of β‐Si3N4 crystals. By adding carbon, the reaction temperature and the width of β‐Si3N4 crystals are decreased, but the aspect ratio of β‐Si3N4 crystals is increased. The well‐dispersed β‐Si3N4 crystals with an average width of 0.84 μm and aspect ratio of 2.3 are produced by adding 2 wt% carbon. When 5 wt% carbon is added, the reaction temperature is too low and the nitridation of Si becomes incomplete, and at the same time much SiC occurs in the product.
Dielectric relaxation and local domain structures of ferroelectric PIMNT and PMNT single crystals
Authors: Li Kai , Sun Enwei , Qi Xudong , Yang Bin , Liu Jian , Cao Wenwu
Published: October 2019

Dielectric relaxation properties of ternary Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3‐0.49Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.27PbTiO3 (PIMNT27) and binary Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.27PbTiO3 (PMNT27) single crystals have been investigated. The dielectric constant peak temperature Tm with frequency obeys the Vogel‐Fulcher (V‐F) law. The dielectric constants at temperatures above Tm can be described by the Lorenz‐type relationship. The fitting parameter δA and ΔTm of PIMNT27 are higher than those of PMNT27, indicating stronger relaxation in ternary PIMNT system. Local nanodomain structures were measured by the piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM). The average autocorrelation function technique was applied to quantify these nanoscale domain patterns. The PIMNT27 exhibits smaller size nanodomains and shorter mean local short‐range correlation length compared to PMNT27. The enhanced local disorder in PIMNT is related to the introduction of In3+ in PMNT system, which can enhance the disorder of B‐site ions. In addition, the evolution of local polarization rotation under a step‐increased tip dc voltage and the mean local short‐range correlation length <ξ> as a function of dc voltage were obtained for both PIMNT27 and PMNT27 single crystals, which are crucial parameters for the understanding of the relationship between dielectric relaxation and local domain structures in relaxor‐PbTiO3 systems.
Bovine‐derived xenograft in combination with autogenous bone chips versus xenograft alone for the augmentation of bony dehiscences around oral implants: A randomized, controlled, split‐mouth clinical trial
Authors: Temmerman Andy , Cortellini Simone , Van Dessel Jeroen , De Greef Alexander , Jacobs Reinhilde , Dhondt Rutger , Teughels Wim , Quirynen Marc
Published: October 2019

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate whether the use of a xenograft is not inferior to the use of xenograft and autogenous bone chips in treating dehiscences at implant placement.

Materials and Methods

After implant placement, leaving a dehiscence, control sites were treated using a composite graft (autogenous bone chips and xenograft) and at the test sites 100% xenograft was used. Both sites were covered with a resorbable collagen membrane. Dehiscences were measured clinically at implant placement and at re‐entry. CBCT was taken immediately after implant placement and after 4 months.

Results

In total, 28 GBR procedures were performed in 14 patients. On average, the change in vertical defect height was 2.07 mm (46.7%—test group) and 2.28 mm (50.9%—control group) (p > .05). The horizontal defect width at the implant shoulder change on average 1.85 mm (40.5%—test group) and 1.75 mm (40.9%—control group) (p > .05). On average, a loss in augmentation thickness of 0.45 mm (68.9%—test group) and 0.64 mm (55.5% control group) between implant placement and augmentation and abutment surgery was obtained at the implant shoulder.

Conclusion

Both treatment modalities seem to work to a certain extent. At implant shoulder level, the augmentation thickness seems to be disappeared after the healing phase. (NCT03946020).
Yes, correct context is indeed the key: An answer to Haave‐Audet et al. 2019
Authors: Herczeg Gábor , Urszán Tamás János , Orf Stephanie , Nagy Gergely , Kotrschal Alexander , Kolm Niclas
Published: October 2019

We published a study recently testing the link between brain size and behavioural plasticity using brain size selected guppy (Poecilia reticulata) lines (2019, Journal of Evolutionary Biology, 32, 218‐226). Only large‐brained fish showed habituation to a new, but actually harmless environment perceived as risky, by increasing movement activity over the 20‐day observation period. We concluded that “Our results suggest that brain size likely explains some of the variation in behavioural plasticity found at the intraspecific level”. In a commentary published in the same journal, Haave‐Audet et al. challenged the main message of our study, stating that (a) relative brain size is not a suitable proxy for cognitive ability and (b) habituation measured by us is likely not adaptive and costly. In our response, we first show that a decade's work has proven repeatedly that relative brain size is indeed positively linked to cognitive performance in our model system. Second, we discuss how switching from stressed to unstressed behaviour in stressful situations without real risk is likely adaptive. Finally, we point out that the main cost of behavioural plasticity in our case is the development and maintenance of the neural system needed for information processing, and not the expression of plasticity. We hope that our discussion with Haave‐Audet et al. helps clarifying some central issues in this emerging research field.
Home Health Care After Skilled Nursing Facility Discharge Following Heart Failure Hospitalization
Authors: Weerahandi Himali , Bao Haikun , Herrin Jeph , Dharmarajan Kumar , Ross Joseph S. , Jones Simon , Horwitz Leora I.
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Heart failure (HF) readmission rates have plateaued despite scrutiny of hospital discharge practices. Many HF patients are discharged to skilled nursing facility (SNF) after hospitalization before returning home. Home healthcare (HHC) services received during the additional transition from SNF to home may affect readmission risk. Here, we examined whether receipt of HHC affects readmission risk during the transition from SNF to home following HF hospitalization.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Fee‐for‐service Medicare data, 2012 to 2015.

PARTICIPANTS

Beneficiaries, aged 65 years and older, hospitalized with HF who were subsequently discharged to SNF and then discharged home.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was unplanned readmission within 30 days of discharge to home from SNF. We compared time to readmission between those with and without HHC services using a Cox model.

RESULTS

Of 67 585 HF hospitalizations discharged to SNFs and subsequently discharged home, 13 257 (19.6%) were discharged with HHC, and 54 328 (80.4%) were discharged without HHC. Patients discharged home from SNFs with HHC had lower 30‐day readmission rates than patients discharged without HHC (22.8% vs 24.5%; P < .0001) and a longer time to readmission. In an adjusted model, the hazard for readmission was 0.91 (0.86‐0.95) with receipt of HHC.

CONCLUSIONS

Recipients of HHC were less likely to be readmitted within 30 days vs those discharged home without HHC. This is unexpected, as patients discharged with HHC likely have more functional impairments. Since patients requiring a SNF stay after hospital discharge may have additional needs, they may particularly benefit from restorative therapy through HHC; however, only approximately 20% received such services. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:96–102, 2019
A multimolecular signaling complex including PrPC and LRP1 is strictly dependent on lipid rafts and is essential for the function of tissue plasminogen activator
Authors: Mattei Vincenzo , Manganelli Valeria , Martellucci Stefano , Capozzi Antonella , Mantuano Elisabetta , Longo Agostina , Ferri Alberto , Garofalo Tina , Sorice Maurizio , Misasi Roberta
Published: October 2019

Prion protein (PrPC) localizes stably in lipid rafts microdomains and is able to recruit downstream signal transduction pathways by the interaction with promiscuous partners. Other proteins have the ability to occasionally be recruited to these specialized membrane areas, within multimolecular complexes. Among these, we highlight the presence of the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1 (LRP1), which was found localized transiently in lipid rafts, suggesting a different function of this receptor that through lipid raft becomes able to activate a signal transduction pathway triggered by specific ligands, including Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Since it has been reported that PrPC participates in the tPA‐mediated plasminogen activation, in this study, we describe the role of lipid rafts in the recruitment and activation of downstream signal transduction pathways mediated by the interaction among tPA, PrPC and LRP1 in human neuroblastoma SK‐N‐BE2 cell line. Co‐immunoprecipitation analysis reveals a consistent association between PrPC and GM1, as well as between LRP1 and GM1, indicating the existence of a glycosphingolipid‐enriched multimolecular complex. In our cell model, knocking‐down PrPC by siRNA impairs ERK phosphorylation induced by tPA. Moreover the alteration of the lipidic milieu of lipid rafts, perturbing the physical/functional interaction between PrPC and LRP1, inhibits this response. We show that LRP1 and PrPC, following tPA stimulation, may function as a system associated with lipid rafts, involved in receptor‐mediated neuritogenic pathway. We suggest this as a multimolecular signaling complex, whose activity depends strictly on the integrity of lipid raft and is involved in the neuritogenic signaling.

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Valproic acid affects neuronal fate and microglial function via enhancing autophagic flux in mice after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Zheng Zhilong , Wu Yanqing , Li Zhengmao , Ye Luxia , Lu Qi , Zhou Yajiao , Yuan Yuan , Jiang Ting , Xie Ling , Liu Yanlong , Chen Daqing , Ye Junming , Nimlamool Wutigri , Zhang Hongyu , Xiao Jian
Published: October 2019

In recent years, many studies have focused on autophagy, an evolutionarily conserved mechanism that relies on lysosomes to achieve cellular metabolic requirements and organelle turnover, and revealed its important role in animal models of traumatic injury. Autophagy is a double‐edged sword. Appropriate levels of autophagy can promote the removal of abnormal proteins or damaged organelles, while hyperactivated autophagy can induce autophagic apoptosis. However, recent studies suggest that autophagic flux seems to be blocked after traumatic brain injury (TBI), which contributes to the apoptosis of brain cells. In this study, valproic acid (VPA), which was clinically used for epilepsy treatment, was used to treat TBI. The Morris water maze test, hematoxylin & eosin staining and Nissl staining were first conducted to confirm that VPA treatment had a therapeutic effect on mice after TBI. Western blotting, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescence staining were then performed to reveal that VPA treatment reversed TBI‐induced blockade of autophagic flux, which was accompanied by a reduced inflammatory response. In addition, the variations in activation and phenotypic polarization of microglia were observed after VPA treatment. Nevertheless, the use of the autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine partially abolished VPA‐induced neuroprotection and the regulation of microglial function after TBI, resulting in the deterioration of the central nervous system microenvironment and neurological function. Collectively, VPA treatment reversed the TBI‐induced blockade of autophagic flux in the mouse brain cortex, subsequently inhibiting brain cell apoptosis and affecting microglial function to achieve the promotion of functional recovery in mice after TBI.

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Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14755.
The Market for Conflicted Advice
Authors: CHANG BRIANA , SZYDLOWSKI MARTIN
Published: October 2019

We present a model of the market for advice in which advisers have conflicts of interest and compete for heterogeneous customers through information provision. The competitive equilibrium features information dispersion and partial disclosure. Although conflicted fees lead to distorted information, they are irrelevant for customers' welfare: banning conflicted fees improves only the information quality, not customers' welfare. Instead, financial literacy education for the least informed customers can improve all customers' welfare because of a spillover effect. Furthermore, customers who trade through advisers realize lower average returns, which rationalizes empirical findings.
Clarifications on blood pressure measurements and the validity of the conclusions
Authors: Shang Y. , Xu W.
Published: October 2019

Click here to view the Letter to the Editor by Dr. Jolobe
“CAD‐on” Interfaces – Fracture Mechanics Characterization
Authors: Walker Peter David , Ruse N. Dorin
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To apply fracture mechanics methodology to determine the interfacial fracture toughness of the interfaces present in “CAD‐on” crowns consisting of CAD/CAM milled lithium disilicate veneers glass‐fused to CAD/CAM milled yttrium oxide stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal framework.

Materials and Methods

The notchless triangular prism specimen fracture toughness test was used to determine interfacial fracture toughness. Four groups, each consisting of (6 × 6 × 6 × 12) mm prisms (n = 22), were produced. Half‐size [(6 × 6 × 6 × 6) mm] specimens of IPS e.max CAD and IPS e.max ZirCAD were approximated under vibration with Crystal Connect fusing glass and sintered according to manufacturer's guidelines to obtain the following three interfaces: (1) e.max CAD/Crystal Connect/e.max CAD (Group I); (2) Zir CAD/Crystal Connect/Zir CAD (Group II); and (3) Zir CAD/Crystal Connect/e.max CAD (Group III). For Group IV (control, based on the “press‐on” veneering technique), half‐size [(6 × 6 × 6 × 6) mm] IPS e.max ZirCAD prisms were coated with ZirLiner and pressed with IPS e.max ZirPress ingots to obtain (6 × 6 × 6 × 12) mm prisms. All specimens were tested using a computer controlled material testing machine. Results were analyzed with one‐way ANOVA, Scheffé multiple means comparisons (α = 0.05) and Weibull statistics. All fractured surfaces were characterized with a light microscope. Selected fractured surfaces were characterized under a scanning electron microscope.

Results

All experimental groups demonstrated a cohesive mode of failure in the fusing glass layer. The number and size of defects appeared to correlate with the variability of fracture toughness values. There were no significant differences between the fracture toughness of the “CAD‐on” interfaces (p = 0.052). The results suggested that the fracture toughness of Crystal Connect limited the interfacial fracture toughness values. The “CAD‐on” fracture toughness value (Group III) was significantly greater than that of the ZirPress “press‐on” control (Group IV) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The “CAD‐on” process results in stronger bonding between veneer and framework, compared to conventional veneering. The clinical use of “CAD‐on” crowns could therefore be advocated. The selection of any restorative material requires a thorough analysis of advantages, limitations and results from clinical studies to inform the clinical decision in a case‐by‐case approach.
Ruin Probabilities And Capital Requirement for Open Automobile Portfolios With a Bonus‐Malus System Based on Claim Counts
Authors: Afonso Lourdes B. , Cardoso Rui M. R. , Egídio dos Reis Alfredo D. , Guerreiro Gracinda R.
Published: October 2019

For a large motor insurance portfolio, on an open environment, we study the impact of experience rating in finite and continuous time ruin probabilities. We consider a model for calculating ruin probabilities applicable to large portfolios with a Markovian Bonus‐Malus System (BMS), based on claim counts, for an automobile portfolio using the classical risk framework model. New challenges are brought when an open portfolio scenario is introduced. When compared with a classical BMS approach ruin probabilities may change significantly. By using a BMS of a Portuguese insurer, we illustrate and discuss the impact of the proposed formulation on the initial surplus required to target a given ruin probability. Under an open portfolio setup, we show that we may have a significant impact on capital requirements when compared with the classical BMS, by having a significant reduction on the initial surplus needed to maintain a fixed level of the ruin probability.
Acoustic settings combination as a sensory crispness indicator of dry crispy food
Authors: Dias‐Faceto Liara S. , Salvador Ana , Conti‐Silva Ana C.
Published: October 2019

Crispness is a critical attribute of quality for crispy products, which can be evaluated through both instrumental and sensory analyses. The aim of the study was to identify the best combination of settings of a device coupled to a texture analyzer for acoustic analysis in order to find strong correlations with the sensory texture. For that, nine commercial food products were submitted to force and acoustic (acoustic envelope detector) analyses, using two settings for acoustic data acquisition (gain 1 and gain 4), and two settings for acoustic data management (threshold 0.5 and 2.5). The products were also evaluated using texture descriptive sensory analysis. The gain changing from 1 to 4 (enhancing the test sensitivity) increased the number of acoustic peaks and reduced the sound pressure level. Changing the threshold from 0.5 to 2.5 (reducing the interference of background noise on the acquired data) reduced the number of acoustic peaks. The correlation between the instrumental and the sensory analysis showed gain 1 as the most adequate acoustic setting to obtain the acoustic parameters of products with different crispness intensities. Moreover, threshold 2.5 is the most appropriate for acoustic data collection. Therefore, sensory attributes and instrumental properties strong correlations indicate that texture analyzer in combination with the acoustic envelope detector is a good instrument to mimic human mastication and texture perception, through both force and sound stimuli. This study about dry crisp food may contribute to the literature and food industry, as well to future studies about wet crispy and crunchy foods.
A pseudo‐mastication sound presentation device to improve the texture of nursing care foods
Authors: Kaneko Hidekazu , Endo Hiroshi , Ino Shuichi
Published: October 2019

The texture of foods is affected by concurrent auditory sensations. To improve the texture of nursing care foods, we developed a pseudo‐mastication sound presentation device based on electromyogram (EMG) signals from the muscles of mastication. EMG signals have enabled us to promptly present care recipients with pseudo‐mastication sounds. However, actual mastication sounds vary in intensity and duration more than EMG signals. Here, we investigated changes in EMG signals and actual mastication sounds during the mastication of two food types (rice crackers and Japanese pickles) to improve our device. We found that the intensity and duration of mastication sounds decreased as the number of mastication strokes increased. Furthermore, the intensity and duration of mastication sounds and the latency between the onset of EMG signals and the onset of mastication sounds also varied by food type. For EMG signals, only the intensity varied by food type. Based on our findings, we modified our pseudo‐mastication sound presentation device to enable control of the intensity and duration of pseudo‐mastication sounds based on the number of mastication strokes and food type. Reproducing more natural pseudo‐mastication sounds can improve care recipients’ motivation for ingesting nursing care foods, thus preventing malnutrition and frailty.
Real‐world experiences with direct‐acting antiviral agents for chronic hepatitis C treatment
Authors: Daniel Kimberly E. , Saeian Kia , Rizvi Syed
Published: October 2019

As direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) agents become more readily available for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C, it is important to understand real‐world treatment experiences. In order to assess the effectiveness of DAA regimens and factors that influence sustained virologic response (SVR) rates in the Veterans Affairs healthcare system, we retrospectively identified veterans with chronic hepatitis C who were treated with DAAs from January 2014 to June 2015. We determined SVR rates and collected data on demographics, genotype (GT), previous interferon‐based treatment, antiviral regimens, and co‐morbidities (HIV, prior solid organ transplant, haemodialysis) for analysis. Of 15 720 veterans, the majority were infected with genotype 1a (GT1a, 60.5%). Excluding the special populations, the overall cohort SVR rate was 92%. Compared to treatment‐experienced patients, treatment‐naïve patients had significantly higher SVR rates (90% vs 92%, P = .006). Subgroups associated with lower likelihood of achieving SVR‐included African Americans (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.69‐0.91), GT3 (OR 0.65, CI 0.50‐0.86), and cirrhosis (OR 0.91, CI 0.84‐0.99) or decompensated cirrhosis (ascites: OR 0.78, CI 0.67‐0.91, variceal bleed: OR 0.75, CI 0.57‐0.99). The only treatment regimen independently associated with lower SVR rates was SOF+RBV+IFN (OR 0.65, CI 0.50‐0.84). Special populations achieved high SVR rates: HIV 92%, haemodialysis 93%, liver transplant 96% and renal transplant 94%. In conclusion, overall SVR rates were comparable to those reported in clinical trials and carried over to historically more difficult‐to‐treat patients. Several patient‐ and treatment‐related factors were identified as independent predictors of treatment failure and suggest subgroups to target for efforts to improve therapeutic strategies.
SIGS vs HIGS: a study on the efficacy of two dsRNA delivery strategies to silence Fusarium FgCYP51 genes in infected host and non‐host plants
Authors: Koch Aline , Höfle Lisa , Werner Bernhard Timo , Imani Jafargholi , Schmidt Alexandra , Jelonek Lukas , Kogel Karl‐Heinz
Published: October 2019

CYP3RNA, a double‐stranded (ds)RNA designed to concomitantly target the two sterol 14α‐demethylase genes FgCYP51A and FgCYP51B and the fungal virulence factor FgCYP51C, inhibits the growth of the ascomycete fungus Fusarium graminearum (Fg) in vitro and in planta. Here we compare two different methods (setups) of dsRNA delivery, viz. transgene expression (host‐induced gene silencing, HIGS) and spray application (spray‐induced gene silencing, SIGS), to assess the activity of CYP3RNA and novel dsRNA species designed to target one or two FgCYP51 genes. Using Arabidopsis and barley, we found that dsRNA designed to target two FgCYP51 genes inhibited fungal growth more efficiently than dsRNA targeting a single gene, although both dsRNA species reduced fungal infection. Either dsRNA delivery method reduced fungal growth stronger than anticipated from previous mutational knock‐out (KO) strategies, where single gene KO had no significant effect on fungal viability. Consistent with the strong inhibitory effects of the dsRNAs on fungal development in both setups, we detected to a large extent dsRNA‐mediated co‐silencing of respective non‐target FgCYP51 genes. Together, our data further support the valuation that dsRNA applications have an interesting potential for pesticide target validation and gene function studies, apart from their potential for crop protection.
Prognostic factors influencing the treatment outcome of onychomycosis Candida
Authors: Widaty Sandra , Miranda Eliza , Bramono Kusmarinah , Menaldi Sri Linuwih , Marissa Melani , Oktarina Caroline , Surya Danny , Kusumawardhani Hening Tirta
Published: October 2019

Onychomycosis contributes as many as half of all nail disorder cases. In 2017, the incidence of onychomycosis was 15% of all dermatomycosis cases at our hospital, a tertiary hospital in Indonesia, with only 25% of the patients achieving mycological cure. This study aims to identify the prognostic factors influencing the treatment outcome of onychomycosis Candida. This is a retrospective study, using data obtained from outpatient registry at our hospital. Fifty‐four onychomycosis patients were included in this study. Potential prognostic factors were analysed by STATA15.0. Retrospective analysis with cox proportional‐hazard was used to measure the contribution of each variable to the treatment's outcome. Onset of disease, history of nail disorder, and site of infection were not associated with mycological cure (P > .05). Based on retrospective analysis, age[odds ratio (OR)1.46; 95% confidence interval (CI)1.07‐2.03], onset of disease (OR 1.14; 95%CI 1.11‐1.17), comorbidities (OR 1.07; 95%CI 1.03‐1.11), type of onychomycosis (OR 1.08; 95%CI 1.05‐1.16), site of infection (OR 1.12; 95%CI 1.04‐1.22) and number of infected nails (OR 1.50; 95%CI 1.25‐1.68) were significantly associated with poor treatment outcome, while type of treatment and type of systemic agents showed no significant association with the outcome. Kaplan‐Meier curves showed that subjects elderly age and more than 3 infected nails had the lowest median survival. Elderly, longer onset, presence of comorbidities, multiple sites of infection, and high number of infected nails can affect the mycological cure negatively. Unstandardised treatment was associated with the mycological cure despite not affecting the prognosis. Therefore, the management's goal is to identify these specific prognostic features.