bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MobiSeq: De novo SNP discovery in model and non‐model species through sequencing the flanking region of transposable elements
Authors: Rey‐Iglesia Alba , Gopalakrishan Shyam , Carøe Christian , Alquezar‐Planas David E. , Ahlmann Nielsen Anne , Röder Timo , Bruhn Pedersen Lene , Næsborg‐Nielsen Christina , Sinding Mikkel‐Holger S. , Fredensborg Rath Martin , Li Zhipeng , Petersen Bent , Gilbert M. Thomas P. , Bunce Michael , Mourier Tobias , Hansen Anders Johannes
Published: December 2018

In recent years, the availability of reduced representation library (RRL) methods has catalysed an expansion of genome‐scale studies to characterize both model and non‐model organisms. Most of these methods rely on the use of restriction enzymes to obtain DNA sequences at a genome‐wide level. These approaches have been widely used to sequence thousands of markers across individuals for many organisms at a reasonable cost, revolutionizing the field of population genomics. However, there are still some limitations associated with these methods, in particular the high molecular weight DNA required as starting material, the reduced number of common loci among investigated samples, and the short length of the sequenced site‐associated DNA. Here, we present MobiSeq, a RRL protocol exploiting simple laboratory techniques, that generates genomic data based on PCR targeted enrichment of transposable elements and the sequencing of the associated flanking region. We validate its performance across 103 DNA extracts derived from three mammalian species: grey wolf (Canis lupus), red deer complex (Cervus sp.) and brown rat (Rattus norvegicus). MobiSeq enables the sequencing of hundreds of thousands loci across the genome and performs SNP discovery with relatively low rates of clonality. Given the ease and flexibility of MobiSeq protocol, the method has the potential to be implemented for marker discovery and population genomics across a wide range of organisms—enabling the exploration of diverse evolutionary and conservation questions.
Using transcriptome sequencing and pooled exome capture to study local adaptation in the giga‐genome of Pinus cembra
Authors: Rellstab Christian , Dauphin Benjamin , Zoller Stefan , Brodbeck Sabine , Gugerli Felix
Published: December 2018

Despite decreasing sequencing costs, whole‐genome sequencing for population‐based genome scans for selection is still prohibitively expensive for organisms with large genomes. Moreover, the repetitive nature of large genomes often represents a challenge in bioinformatic and downstream analyses. Here, we use in‐depth transcriptome sequencing to design probes for exome capture in Swiss stone pine (Pinus cembra), a conifer with an estimated genome size of 29.3 Gbp and no reference genome available. We successfully applied around 55,000 self‐designed probes, targeting 25,000 contigs, to DNA pools of seven populations from the Swiss Alps and identified >160,000 SNPs in around 15,000 contigs. The probes performed equally well in pools of the closely related species Pinus sibirica; in both species, more than 70% of the targeted contigs were sequenced at a depth ≥40× (number of haplotypes in the pool). However, a thorough analysis of individually sequenced P. cembra samples indicated that a majority of the contigs (63%) represented multi‐copy genes. We therefore removed paralogous contigs based on heterozygote excess and deviation from allele balance. Without putatively paralogous contigs, allele frequencies of population pools represented accurate estimates of individually determined allele frequencies. We show that inferences of neutral and adaptive genetic variation may be biased when not accounting for such multi‐copy genes. Without individual genotype data, it would have been nearly impossible to recognize and deal with the problem of multi‐copy contigs. We advocate to put more emphasis on identifying paralogous loci, which will be facilitated by the establishment of additional high‐quality reference genomes.
Endothelial cell injury is involved in atherosclerosis and lupus symptoms in gld.apoE−/− mice
Authors: Yao Genhong , Qi Jingjing , Zhang Zhuoya , Huang Saisai , Geng Linyu , Li Wenchao , Chen Weiwei , Tang Xiaojun , Wang Shiying , Sun Lingyun
Published: December 2018

Aim

Cardiovascular complications related to atherosclerosis are major causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Endothelial dysfunction has been identified as having involvement in pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases and SLE. This study aims to evaluate endothelial cell injury in mice with the combination of lupus and atherosclerosis.

Methods

The mouse model of accelerated atherosclerosis in lupus (gld.apoE−/− mouse) was generated from apolipoprotein E‐deficient (apoE−/−) and Faslgld C57BL/6 mice. The lupus‐like autoimmunity and atherosclerotic lesions were evaluated. The endothelial cell injury was determined.

Results

The results showed that the double‐mutant gld.apoE−/− mice were generated. Spleens from 5‐month‐old gld.apoE−/− mice were significantly enlarged compared with wild‐type mice (WT mice). The gld.apoE−/− mice produced high levels of total immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM and showed marked increase of IgG and C3 deposits in the glomeruli. The gld.apoE−/− mice displayed a pattern of glomerulonephritis typically found in SLE. The gld.apoE−/− mice have high levels of serum creatinine. The total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly increased, while high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased in the double‐mutant mice. The circulating endothelial progenitor cells were significantly decreased. The serum levels of thrombomodulin and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 were significantly elevated in gld.apoE−/− mice. The gld.apoE−/− mice simultaneously exhibited SLE and atherosclerosis characteristics.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that endothelial cell injury might be a biomarker for evaluating risks of cardiovascular disease in SLE and targeting endothelial cell dysfunction might prevent and treat atherosclerosis in SLE.
Pushing subjects beyond rationality with more alternatives in experimental auctions
Authors: Chavez Daniel E. , Palma Marco A.
Published: December 2018

The use of experimental economics in valuation of market and nonmarket goods has grown over the past few years. The ability of experimental auctions (EUs) to reveal consumer preferences and their malleability has been praised in previous literature. Because of the high cost of conducting EUs, researchers usually present multiple products to participants, determining how many products to present has no clear guideline. The results of this study show that subjects do not value products the same way across different number of options offered to them. The main indicator is the increasing variance in responses for a benchmark product when more products are available. With an econometric specification allowing for heteroscedasticity as a function of the number of product offerings, the results indicate that the number of goods available for bidding is not to be taken as a trivial task in experimental design for value elicitation.
Prolonged second stage of labour increases maternal morbidity but not neonatal morbidity
Authors: Matta Payal , Turner Jessica , Flatley Christopher , Kumar Sailesh
Published: December 2018

Background

Prolonged second stage of labour is known to be associated with higher caesarean section rates. However, the association between prolonged second stage of labour (PSSL) and adverse neonatal outcomes remains contradictory. The aim of this study was to assess the association between prolonged second stage of labour and obstetric and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of women with term, singleton pregnancies at the Mater Mother's Hospital, Brisbane. Intrapartum, maternal and neonatal outcomes were assessed and stratified according to prolonged second stage of labour.

Results

Of 48 352 women, 9.7% had PSSL. Women with PSSL were more likely to be nulliparous and have received oxytocin for augmentation of their labour (P < 0.001), less likely to have an epidural or have undergone induction of labour (P < 0.001). Women with PSSL were less likely to achieve a spontaneous vaginal delivery (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.13, 95%CI 0.12–0.14, P < 0.001), more likely to undergo an instrumental delivery (aOR 3.93, 95%CI 3.62–4.25, P < 0.001) or emergency caesarean section (aOR 9.08, 95%CI 8.00–10.29, P < 0.001). PSSL was associated with shoulder dystocia (aOR 1.61, 95%CI 1.42–1.81, P < 0.001), and postpartum haemorrhage (aOR 1.37, 95%CI 1.16–1.60, P < 0.001). Univariate analysis demonstrated prolonged second stage of labour was associated with low five‐minute Apgar score, acidosis and neonatal intensive care admission. However, after adjusting for potential confounders only five‐minute Apgar scores ≤3 remained significantly increased (aOR 2.36, 95% CI 1.36–4.09, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

PSSL is associated with increased operative birth and maternal morbidity.
A detailed in vivo analysis of the retinal nerve fibre layer in choroideremia
Authors: Fu Dun J. , Xue Kanmin , Jolly Jasleen K. , MacLaren Robert E.
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Choroideremia is a currently incurable X‐linked recessive retinal degeneration that leads to blindness. Gene therapy approaches to date target the outer retinal layers. However, the choroideremia (CHM) gene is expressed in all retinal layers, and a previous study on a small cohort of choroideremia patients suggested possible thinning of the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL). The purpose of the study was to examine the RNFL in detail using advanced imaging techniques in a larger cohort of choroideremia patients.

Methods

Spectral domain optical coherence tomography of the peripapillary RNFL acquired with the Heidelberg Spectralis HRA circular scan mode were analysed retrospectively in 41 eyes of 21 choroideremia patients aged 39.6 years (±3.7 SEM). As age‐matched controls, 20 eyes from 10 patients with retinitis pigmentosa and 56 eyes from 28 healthy individuals were also assessed. Automated RNFL segmentation was adjusted manually to precisely delineate the RNFL. The data were also compared against an external normative database.

Results

Mean peripapillary RNFL thickness in choroideremia was 130 ± 3 μm in the right eye (OD) and 133 ± 3 μm in the left eye (OS). This was 24% and 27% thicker than RNFL thickness in the controls (p < 0.001 for both). Patients with retinitis pigmentosa also showed an increase in RNFL thickness, which was no different to the choroideremia cohort (p > 0.05). Compared with manual analysis, the automated function of the inbuilt software was consistently inaccurate in segmenting the RNFL in choroideremia.

Conclusion

The RNFL is significantly thicker in choroideremia compared with age‐matched normal controls, which was similar to what was seen in retinitis pigmentosa.
Effects of an immunomodulatory feed additive on body weight, production parameters, blood metabolites, and health in multiparous transition Holstein cows
Authors: Wu Zhaohai , Alugongo Gibson M. , Xiao Jianxin , Li Jinghui , Yu Yan , Li Yuanxiao , Wang Yajing , Li Shengli , Cao Zhijun
Published: December 2018

The study investigated the impact of feeding OmniGen‐AF® (OG; Phibro Animal Health, Quincy, IL) from dry‐off to week 4 of lactation at two doses on production performance and metabolic adaptation of multiparous Holstein cows. Forty‐eight cows were blocked and assigned randomly to three treatments: OG was fed at 0 g/head/day (CON), 60 g/head/day (OG60), or 90 g/head/day (OG90). No difference was observed in dry matter intake (DMI) throughout the experiment, whereas feeding OG tended to decrease the percentage body weight change (PWC) on week 2. Although colostrum yield was not affected by treatment, colostrum IgG production of OG90 tended to be higher than that of CON. OG supplementation did not affect overall milking performance but decreased milk SCC during the first 4 weeks of lactation. In prepartum, OG supplementation decreased the concentrations of serum albumin and calcium, and increased serum globulin. OG supplementation tended to increase serum total protein, globulin, and calcium contents postpartum. Furthermore, reduced incidence of mastitis and udder edema were observed. In conclusion, supplementing cows with OG from dry‐off period reduces or modulates the inflammation responses associated with parturition, potentially resulting in improved postpartum health, while feeding OG more than 60 g/head/day did not warrant further benefits.
An updated approach to incremental nerve sparing for robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: Martini Alberto , Cumarasamy Shivaram , Haines Kenneth G. , Tewari Ashutosh K.
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To update the algorithm for performing incremental nerve sparing (NS) using our multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI)‐based nomogram.

Patients and methods

We applied the coefficients of the nomogram to the observations extracted from our population of patients who underwent robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy between February 2014 and October 2015 and who received preoperative mpMRI. The information considered were PSA level, highest side‐specific biopsy Gleason grade group, highest ipsilateral percentage core involvement with the highest Gleason grade group, and extracapsular extension (ECE) on mpMRI. The nomogram‐derived probability [P (%)], after internal validation, was used as the independent variable on a classification tree to identify the most significant thresholds for ECE prediction. Incremental NS was performed as follows: Grade 1 NS: intrafascial dissection between the peri‐prostatic veins and the pseudocapsule of the prostate; Grade 2 NS: inter‐fascial dissection along the peri‐venous plane; Grade 3 NS: inter‐fascial dissection through the outer compartment of the lateral prostatic fascia; Grade 4 NS: extrafascial dissection.

Results

Data from 561 patients were considered, and 829 prostatic lobes with biopsy‐documented tumour were analysed. Overall, 142 lobes presented ECE that was focal in 27 (19%) cases. The classification tree identified four risk categories. In the low‐ [P (%) ≤10], intermediate‐ [P (%) 10–21], high [P (%) 21–73] and very‐high‐risk [P(%) >73] groups, the ECE rates were 3.3%, 16%, 61.6% and 90%, respectively. Amongst those, ECE was focal in 41.7%, 31.7%, 7.9% and 0%, respectively.

Conclusion

We suggest that Grade 1 NS (intrafascial) should be performed in the low‐risk group. The inter‐fascial approach, namely grades 2 and 3 NS, should be performed in the intermediate‐ and high‐risk categories, respectively. Grade 4 NS (extrafascial) should be performed in the very‐high‐risk group. The current algorithm yields a better accuracy than the previous one; however, prospective validation is warranted.
Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition via transforming growth factor beta in pancreatic cancer is potentiated by the inflammatory glycoprotein leucine‐rich alpha‐2 glycoprotein
Authors: Otsuru Toru , Kobayashi Shogo , Wada Hiroshi , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Gotoh Kunihito , Iwagami Yoshifumi , Yamada Daisaku , Noda Takehiro , Asaoka Tadafumi , Serada Satoshi , Fujimoto Minoru , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro , Naka Testuji
Published: December 2018

We previously showed that an inflammation‐related, molecule leucine‐rich alpha‐2 glycoprotein (LRG) enhances the transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1‐induced phosphorylation of Smad proteins and is elevated in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). As TGF‐β/Smad signaling is considered to play a key role in epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), we attempted to clarify the mechanism underlying LRG‐related EMT in relation to metastasis in PDAC. We cultured LRG‐overexpressing PDAC cells (Panc1/LRG) and evaluated the morphology, EMT‐related molecules and TGF‐β/Smad signaling pathway in these cells. We also assessed the LRG levels in plasma and resected specimens from patients with PDAC. Inflammatory cytokines induced LRG production in PDAC cells. A spindle‐like shape was visualized more frequently than other shapes in Panc1/LRG with TGF‐β1 exposure. The expression of E‐cadherin in Panc1/LRG was decreased with TGF‐β1 exposure. Invasion increased with TGF‐β1 stimulation of Panc1/LRG. The phosphorylation of smad2 in Panc1/LRG was increased in comparison with parental Panc1 under TGF‐β1 stimulation. In the plasma LRG‐high group, the recurrence rate tended to be higher and the recurrence‐free survival (RFS) tended to be worse in comparison with the plasma LRG‐low group. LRG enhanced EMT induced by TGF‐β signaling, thus indicating that LRG has a significant effect on the metastasis of PDAC.
Evaluation of spin within abstracts in obesity randomized clinical trials: A cross‐sectional review
Authors: Austin J. , Smith C. , Natarajan K. , Som M. , Wayant C. , Vassar M.
Published: December 2018

This is a cross‐sectional analysis of spin in randomized controlled trial (RCT) abstracts published in top‐ranked obesity and general medicine journals. The top seven obesity and four general medicine journals were searched from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2017. To be included in this study, a trial must be an RCT with non‐significant primary endpoint (P > 0.05), exclusively randomize subjects with overweight or obesity or have a primary endpoint of weight loss. These studies were analysed by two reviewers for spin in the abstract. The primary endpoint of our investigation was the frequency and type of spin. The secondary endpoint was to assess whether funding source was associated with the presence of spin. Our PubMed search yielded 1143 articles. Primary screening excluded 992 articles, and full‐text evaluation excluded an additional 106. Overall, 45 articles were included. Spin was identified in 21 of the 45 (46.7%) abstracts analysed. Evidence of spin was found in 17 (37.8%) abstract result sections and 11 (24.4%) abstract conclusion sections. Of the 39 RCTs reporting a clinical trial registry, 6 (15.4%) had evidence of selective reporting bias. Our study found that obesity medicine RCTs from top‐ranked journals with non‐significant primary endpoints published in 2016 and 2017 frequently have spin in their abstracts. Abstracts with evidence of spin may influence a reader's perception of new drugs or procedures. These results warrant a careful review of future RCTs, but may not be generalizable to RCTs published in lower‐ranked journals.
The impact of using a closed‐loop system on food choices and eating practices among people with Type 1 diabetes: a qualitative study involving adults, teenagers and parents
Authors: Lawton J. , Blackburn M. , Rankin D. , Allen J. , Campbell F. , Leelarathna L. , Tauschmann M. , Thabit H. , Wilinska M. E. , Hovorka R. ,   the APCam11 Consortium
Published: December 2018

Aims

We explored whether, how and why moving onto and using a hybrid day‐and‐night closed‐loop system affected people's food choices and dietary practices to better understand the impact of this technology on everyday life and inform recommendations for training and support given to future users.

Methods

Twenty‐four adults, adolescents and parents were interviewed before commencing use of the closed‐loop system and following its 3‐month use. Data were analysed thematically and longitudinally.

Results

While participants described preparing and/or eating similar meals to those consumed prior to using a closed‐loop, many described feeling more normal and less burdened by diabetes in dietary situations. Individuals also noted how the use of this technology could lead to deskilling (less precise carbohydrate counting) and less healthy eating (increased snacking and portion sizes and consumption of fatty, energy‐dense foods) because of the perceived ability of the system to deal with errors in carbohydrate counting and address small rises in blood glucose without a corrective dose needing to be administered.

Conclusions

While there may be quality‐of‐life benefits to using a closed‐loop, individuals might benefit from additional nutritional and behavioural education to help promote healthy eating. Refresher training in carbohydrate counting may also be necessary to help ensure that users are able to undertake diabetes management in situations where the technology might fail or that they take a break from using it.
Dynamic changes in insulin and glucagon during disease progression in rhesus monkeys with obesity‐related type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wang Can , Xiao Yao , Wang Jue , Hou Ning , Cui Weiyi , Hu Xiaomin , Zeng Fanxin , Yuan Ye , Ma Dongwei , Sun Xueting , Zhang Yan , Zheng Wen , Liu Yuli , Shang Haibao , Chen Liangyi , Xiao Rui‐Ping , Zhang Xiuqin
Published: December 2018

Aims

To investigate the progression of obesity‐related type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in rhesus monkeys, especially dynamic changes in insulin and glucagon.

Materials and methods

We followed a cohort of 52 rhesus monkeys for 7 years throughout the progression of obesity‐related T2DM. Intravenous glucose tolerance tests were performed every 6 months to evaluate dynamic changes in glucose, insulin and glucagon levels.

Results

Obesity in rhesus monkeys increased the overall mortality and T2DM morbidity. During the progression of T2DM, glucagon remained consistently elevated, while insulin initially increased in compensation but then dropped to below normal levels when the monkeys developed overt T2DM. After a glucose challenge, both the first and second phases of insulin secretion increased during the early stage of T2DM; in later stages the first phase was delayed and the second phase was diminished.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that, beside the decreased insulin level, hyperglucagonaemia also plays an important role in the development of T2DM.
Longitudinal assessment of the Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale (UHDRS) and UHDRS–For Advanced Patients (UHDRS‐FAP) in patients with late stage Huntington's disease
Authors: Winder J. Y. , Achterberg W. P. , Gardiner S. L. , Roos R. A. C.
Published: December 2018

Background and purpose

Symptoms and signs in patients with Huntington's disease are usually assessed with the Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale (UHDRS). Ceiling and floor effects hamper the measurement of disease progression in patients with late stage Huntington's disease and therefore the UHDRS–For Advanced Patients (UHDRS‐FAP) has been developed. The aim of this longitudinal study was to examine if the UHDRS‐FAP and UHDRS are sensitive enough to detect change over time in late stage Huntington's disease.

Methods

Forty nursing home residents and patients receiving day‐care were assessed with the UHDRS, UHDRS‐FAP and Care Dependency Scale (CDS). After 6 months, the assessment scales were completed again in 29 patients. Changes between baseline and follow‐up were calculated using paired t tests. Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests were used to calculate longitudinal changes for middle and late stage patients separately.

Results

The motor and cognitive score of the UHDRS‐FAP deteriorated during 6 months’ follow‐up, whilst the motor and cognitive score of the UHDRS did not show change. Two functional domains of the UHDRS and the CDS also declined. The behavioral score significantly improved with both rating scales in late stage patients.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the UHDRS‐FAP motor and cognitive score, the functional domains of the UHDRS, and the CDS can detect disease progression in late stage Huntington's disease. Therefore, the use of these scores in nursing homes is recommended to optimize care by monitoring disease progression and by evaluating the effect of interventions in clinical care. Psychiatric symptoms seem to fade away as the disease progresses.
Necroptosis directly induces the release of full‐length biologically active IL‐33 in vitro and in an inflammatory disease model
Authors: Shlomovitz Inbar , Erlich Ziv , Speir Mary , Zargarian Sefi , Baram Noam , Engler Maya , Edry‐Botzer Liat , Munitz Ariel , Croker Ben A. , Gerlic Motti
Published: December 2018

Interleukin‐33 (IL‐33) is a pro‐inflammatory cytokine that plays a significant role in inflammatory diseases by activating immune cells to induce type 2 immune responses upon its release. Although IL‐33 is known to be released during tissue damage, its exact release mechanism is not yet fully understood. Previously, we have shown that cleaved IL‐33 can be detected in the plasma and epithelium of Ripk1−/− neonates, which succumb to systemic inflammation driven by spontaneous receptor‐interacting protein kinase‐3 (RIPK3)‐dependent necroptotic cell death, shortly after birth. Thus, we hypothesized that necroptosis, a RIPK3/mixed lineage kinase‐like protein (MLKL)‐dependent, caspase‐independent cell death pathway controls IL‐33 release. Here, we show that necroptosis directly induces the release of nuclear IL‐33 in its full‐length form. Unlike the necroptosis executioner protein, MLKL, which was released in its active phosphorylated form in extracellular vesicles, IL‐33 was released directly into the supernatant. Importantly, full‐length IL‐33 released in response to necroptosis was found to be bioactive, as it was able to activate basophils and eosinophils. Finally, the human and murine necroptosis inhibitor, GW806742X, blocked necroptosis and IL‐33 release in vitro and reduced eosinophilia in Aspergillus fumigatus extract‐induced asthma in vivo, an allergic inflammation model that is highly dependent on IL‐33. Collectively, these data establish for the first time, necroptosis as a direct mechanism for IL‐33 release, a finding that may have major implications in type 2 immune responses.
Fatigue crack growth simulation in adhesively bonded composite joints
Authors: Tserpes Konstantinos , Floros Ioannis
Published: December 2018

A numerical model has been developed for simulating fatigue crack growth (debonding) in adhesively bonded composite joints subjected to mode‐I, mode‐II, and mixed‐mode I + II loading conditions. The model employs a cohesive zone model described by a modified bilinear traction‐separation law. Fatigue damage in the composite adherends is not considered in the model. To account for crack divergence and reduce sensitivity of numerical results on mesh density, a crack front detection algorithm based on the effective element's length was employed. The model is implemented as a user‐defined subroutine (UMAT) in the commercial FE code LS‐DYNA. The model's input parameters, in the form of a modified Paris law, and the validation data were obtained from experimental tests conducted by the authors. It was found that the model is able to successfully simulate crack growth in the regime of the experimental data.
Director attention and firm value
Authors: Renjie Rex Wang , Verwijmeren Patrick
Published: December 2018

In this article, we show that exogenous director distraction affects board monitoring intensity and leads to a higher level of inactivity by management. We construct a firm‐level director “distraction” measure by exploiting shocks to unrelated industries in which directors have additional directorships. Directors attend significantly fewer board meetings when they are distracted. Firms with distracted board members tend to be inactive and experience a significant decline in firm value. Overall, this article highlights the impact of limited director attention on the effectiveness of corporate governance and the importance of directors in keeping management active.
Policy support for biochar: Review and recommendations
Authors: Pourhashem Ghasideh , Hung Shih Yu , Medlock Kenneth B. , Masiello Caroline A.
Published: December 2018

Significant evidence has accumulated demonstrating that soil biochar amendment has many environmental benefits; however, adoption has been slow. This raises the question of how to align the environmental benefits with commercial motivations to drive more widespread implementation. Here, we examine the role that government policy can play in accelerating production and use at commercial scale. We identify three types of programs that can support biochar production: commercial financial incentives, nonfinancial policy support, and research and development funding. We also describe how these programs are currently used to support biochar production. For example, financial incentives can motivate immediate changes in business practices while nonfinancial policies can be important mechanisms to educate consumers and expand market demand. Research and development support can provide the necessary funding for early‐stage innovations that may one day become commercially viable options, even without other types of policy support. There are different risk–reward profiles for each policy mechanism, and these must be considered when evaluating a policy direction. Finally, we offer broad recommendations to the development of policy that maximizes the net benefits of biochar adoption. Key recommendations include improving policies that allow for the monetization of environmental benefits and avoided costs, recognizing soil as a resource through national preservation policy, and developing a broadly accepted set of product standards for biochar.
Accounting for equality: Gender budgeting and moderate feminism
Authors: Marx Ulrike
Published: December 2018

This article sheds light on the relationship between quantification and calculative practices of accounting and moderate feminism. Drawing on a case of gender budgeting in Austria and the literature on social studies of accounting, I show how gender equality initiatives are translated into practice and come to codify the governance of gender relations through calculative practices that further the logic of neoliberal governmentality, rather than fundamentally challenging it. As such, this article provides an account of one site of the neoliberal recuperation of feminist critique through technologies of quantification and accountability.
What's Next Now That the Boom in Contaminant Hydrogeology Has Busted?
Authors: Schwartz Franklin W. , Zhang Yiding , Ibaraki Motomu
Published: December 2018

This paper shows how important the historical contaminant boom, 1975 to 2005, has been to hydrogeology. Its role in this respect has never been well documented or appreciated. We use text mining and machine learning to extract information describing research trends in subsurface hydrology (SH), groundwater plus the vadose zone. The analysis, using articles from Water Resources Research (WRR) and Environmental Science and Technology, shows how SH grew from a small niche area within broader hydrologic sciences in the 1960s to become the dominant area of research by 1995. Subsequently, the performance of SH has declined, as other areas of hydrologic sciences have emerged. These patterns reflect the growth and decline of research related to contaminant topics in SH. Thus, the decline is economic—less money leads to less research. The boom in contaminant hydrogeology was effectively a 1000‐year flood of money for SH. It let us outcompete the non‐SH areas for a while. From 1991 to 2000, SH research in WRR was dominated by papers on contaminant‐related themes. More recently, these themes and all other areas of SH except one have declined significantly in WRR. All major topics related to non‐SH areas are growing except one. This evidence points to a continuing decline in competitiveness of basic research in SH. The fact that critical problems or social needs for research still exist has not changed this basic trend. The focus of research has clearly shifted away from SH to areas of hydrology associated with climate change, water cycle modeling and similar themes.
Impact of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor on histological features and glucose metabolism of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease complicated by diabetes mellitus
Authors: Akuta Norio , Kawamura Yusuke , Watanabe Chizuru , Nishimura Akihiro , Okubo Minoru , Mori Yasumichi , Fujiyama Shunichiro , Sezaki Hitomi , Hosaka Tetsuya , Kobayashi Masahiro , Kobayashi Mariko , Saitoh Satoshi , Suzuki Fumitaka , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Arase Yasuji , Ikeda Kenji , Kumada Hiromitsu
Published: December 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2I) as an effective therapeutic option for non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

In this prospective study, nine patients with NAFLD complicated by type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), were introduced to the regimen of canagliflozin 100 mg once daily for 24 weeks and were evaluated by liver histology at pretreatment and at 24 weeks after the start of treatment. The primary outcome was histological improvement, defined as a decrease in NAFLD activity score of one point or more without worsening in fibrosis stage. Glucose metabolism was evaluated based on the meal tolerance test. The usefulness of extracellular and exosome microRNA‐122 (miR‐122) as early predictors of histological improvement was investigated.

Results

All of the nine patients achieved histological improvement. Scores of steatosis, lobular inflammation, ballooning, and fibrosis stage decreased by 78%, 33%, 22%, and 33% at 24 weeks compared to the pretreatment, respectively. Six patients showed improvement in insulin resistance, and the other three patients showed partial improvement of insulin secretion function. Six patients, who showed a decrease in both extracellular and exosome miR‐122 ratios (the ratio of miR‐122 levels at 1 day after treatment to that at baseline), showed histological improvement. Furthermore, one patient, who showed a decrease in exosome miR‐122 ratios regardless of the increase in extracellular miR‐122 ratios, also showed decreases in NAFLD activity score and fibrosis stage.

Conclusion

A prospective study showed that SGLT2I for NAFLD complicated by DM improved histological features in connection with glucose metabolism. This trial was registered as clinical trial UMIN000018166.
Preparation, growth mechanism and slag resistance behavior of ternary Ca2Mg2Al28O46 (C2M2A14)
Authors: Li Bin , Chen Haiyang , Chen Junhong , Wang Enhui , Hou Xinmei , Li Yong
Published: December 2018

The ternary phase Ca2Mg2Al28O46 (C2M2A14) in the CaO‐Al2O3‐MgO system was synthesized by reaction sintering using analytically pure CaO, MgO and Al2O3 as raw materials. The solid‐solution reaction between CaAl12O19 (CA6) and MgAl2O4 (MA) takes place at 1650°C and hexagonal thick flake C2M2A14 are produced at 1750°C. Due to the substitution of Al3+ for Mg2+ in the spinel unit of C2M2A14, C2M2A14, CM2A8 and CA2 appear in the product batched with stoichiometric ratio. When the firing temperature is 1750°C and the solid soluble amount of Al3+ is 0.2, C2M2A14 with high purity of 96.5 wt % is obtained. As for the growth mechanism, it follows a two‐dimensional nucleation theory, i.e., MA forms two‐dimensional nuclei on the (0001) plane of CA6 and provide growth steps for atomic deposition. When the temperature reaches a certain point, MA's crystallization interface obtains great growth driving force and MA on the layer begins to merge with the CA6 matrix to form hexagonal thick flake C2M2A14. During the slag corrosion, the formation of dense coating layer with CA2 as the main component improve the high temperature stability and corrosion resistance. Therefore, C2M2A14 is of great potentiality to be applied in the ladle lining.
Systemic comorbidities associated with rosacea: a multicentric retrospective observational study
Authors: Aksoy Berna , Ekiz Özlem , Unal Emine , Ozaydin Yavuz Goknur , Gonul Müzeyyen , Kulcu Cakmak Seray , Polat Mualla , Bilgic Özlem , Baykal Selcuk Leyla , Unal Idil , Karadag Ayse S. , Kilic Arzu , Balta Ilknur , Kutlu Ömer , Uzuncakmak Tuğba K. , Gunduz Kamer
Published: December 2018

Background

Once considered a disorder limited to the skin, rosacea is now known to be associated with systemic disorders. The aim of this study was to determine what systemic comorbidities accompany rosacea and to determine the relationship between the type, severity, and duration of rosacea, and the presence of and type of systemic comorbidities.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study was conducted by the Turkish Society of Dermatology Acne Study Group. Thirteen dermatology clinics throughout Turkey participated in the study. A structured physician‐administered questionnaire was used to collect patient demographics, clinical findings, and lifestyle data. The principal rosacea subtype, physician global assessment of severity, and duration of rosacea were recorded. Physicians recorded each participant's medical history, including current and past comorbidities, duration of any such comorbidity, and the use of medications to treat any comorbidities.

Results

The study included 1,195 rosacea patients and 621 controls without rosacea aged 18–85 years. As compared to the controls, more of the rosacea patients had respiratory tract, gastrointestinal system, and metabolic and hepatobiliary system disorders in a rosacea's severity‐ and duration‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

Clinicians must be aware of the potential for systemic comorbidities in rosacea patients, which becomes more likely as disease duration and severity increase.
Hysteresis in unemployment: A confidence channel
Authors: Plotnikov Dmitry
Published: December 2018

This paper develops a general equilibrium rational expectations model with search and multiple equilibria where aggregate shocks have a permanent effect on the unemployment rate. If agents’ wealth decreases, for either fundamental (productivity) or non‐fundamental (sunspot) reasons, the unemployment rate can increase for a potentially indefinite period. This makes the unemployment rate dynamics path dependent.
Les coûts sexués de l'austérité: les effets du régime d'État‐providence et des politiques publiques sur l'emploi dans les pays de l'OCDE au cours de la période 2000–2013
Authors: KUSHI Sidita , McMANUS Ian P.
Published: December 2018

Les auteurs analysent l'impact sexué des politiques menées face à la crise de 2008 sur le chômage dans 28 pays de l'OCDE. Ils s'appuient sur une modélisation à effets aléatoires pour tester l'influence des systèmes de protection sociale au cours de la période 2000–2013. Ils montrent que la nature du régime d'État‐providence a un effet significatif, qui s'exerce principalement à travers le niveau des dépenses sociales et la dynamique de l'emploi public et qui tend à pénaliser les femmes. L'analyse présentée plaide en faveur de la recherche d'autres remèdes que les politiques d'austérité. Les auteurs formulent quelques recommandations à cet égard.
Évaluer l'efficacité des dispositions relatives au travail figurant dans les accords commerciaux: cadre analytique et méthodologique
Authors: AISSI Jonas , PEELS Rafael , SAMAAN Daniel
Published: December 2018

Les auteurs proposent un cadre analytique et méthodologique aux fins de l'évaluation de l'efficacité des dispositions relatives au travail figurant dans les accords commerciaux. Avant d'illustrer leur propos par plusieurs études de cas, ils précisent la notion de capacité à trois niveaux (État, société civile et entreprises) et font la distinction entre résultats immédiats (aménagements juridiques, institutionnels et politiques) et lointains (amélioration des droits au travail et des conditions de travail). Affirmant le caractère multidimensionnel de ces dispositions, ils suggèrent de les évaluer par des méthodes qualitatives et quantitatives, selon la capacité traitée et les données disponibles. Ils formulent aussi quelques recommandations générales.
Making Chimerica great again
Authors: Ferguson Niall , Xu Xiang
Published: December 2018

A decade after the outbreak of the global financial crisis, a large trade imbalance between the world's two biggest economies, the U.S. and China, still exists and is more politically contentious than ever. This economic relationship, which we termed ‘Chimerica’ in 2007, seemed likely to end as a result of the global financial crisis. Yet this did not happen. In this paper, we examine the evolution of Chimerica in the aftermath of the global financial crisis and explain how the stimulus policies of both the U.S. and China have contributed to its survival. We show how stimulus policies helped change Chimerica from a marriage of opposites to a marriage of equals. We then explain why this marriage is now destined for strife, in the form of a trade war between the U.S. and China. The consequences of such a trade war would deeply impact the global economy. We believe constructive negotiations on trade rebalancing and policy coordination are therefore needed to avoid a disruptive end to Chimerica.
Feasibility of single position endoscopic laser balloon ablation for atrial fibrillation: The open 8 approach
Authors: Iliodromitis Konstantinos E. , Silva Etel , De Potter Tom
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Ablation without shaft repositioning may make the endoscopic laser ablation system (EAS) more like a single shot approach. We tested the feasibility of wide circumferential ablation (WCA; no carina ablation and no shaft repositioning) in an “open 8” pattern for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI).

Methods and Results

Forty‐eight patients (n = 48, age 64.6 ± 12 years) with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) were referred to our center for PVI with the EAS. WCA for the lateral and septal pulmonary veins was attempted in all patients. If not feasible, individual full circular isolation of each pulmonary vein (iPVI) was performed. Additional lesions were applied if acute complete electrical isolation was not achieved on the first encirclement. Any documented episode of AF after a 1‐month blanking period was registered as a recurrence. Bilateral WCA was feasible in 21 out of 48 patients (43.8%). Additional lesions for complete electrical isolation after the first‐pass ablation were less in WCA compared with iPVI (P = 0.02). WCA was accomplished faster, with less applied energy at both lateral (P < 0.01) and septal side (P < 0.01). The mean follow‐up of the patient population was 232 ± 150 days. AF recurrence occurred later in patients treated with WCA (315 ± 124 vs 110 ± 88 days, P = 0.008).

Conclusions

WCA with the EAS is safe, at least moderately feasible and highly effective, if achieved. Compared with iPVI it may be less time consuming, results in less energy application, and suppresses AF more effectively.
Catheter ablation versus surgical ablation combined with mitral valve surgery for nonparoxysmal atrial fibrillation in patients with moderate mitral regurgitation
Authors: Chen Jindong , Xie Xiaoyi , Zhang Jianfeng , Wang Hao , Zhou Mengmeng , Zhang Jing , Wu Weihua , Zhao Liang
Published: December 2018

Objective

There are scarce comparative data on efficacy and procedural safety between radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) and surgical ablation (SA) combined with mitral valve (MV) surgery for patients with nonparoxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) and moderate mitral regurgitation (MR).

Methods and Results

This single‐center, retrospective, and observational study enrolled 155 consecutive patients with nonparoxysmal AF and moderate MR, of which 98 underwent RFCA and 57 underwent SA combined with MV surgery. Circumferential pulmonary vein ablation, bidirectional block of lines, and disappearance of complex fractionated atrial electrograms were the endpoints of RFCA, while pulmonary vein isolation and left and right atrial incisions were performed in SA. At median 24‐month follow‐up, the primary outcome of atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa) recurrence‐free rate estimated by Kaplan‐Meier analysis was higher in SA + MV surgery vs RFCA groups (64.2% vs 38.3%; P = 0.002), and comparable between patients with and without MV prolapse in SA + MV surgery group (64.7% vs 63.1%;
P = 0.972). In adjusted Cox model, RFCA was associated with a hazard ratio for ATa recurrence of 2.27 (95% confidence interval, 1.02‐5.05;
P = 0.045). Patients with higher MR jet/LA (left atrial) area ratio had a higher risk of ATa recurrence in RFCA (
P = 0.037) but not SA + MV (
P = 0.529) groups.

Conclusion

SA + MV surgery yielded more favorable outcomes than RFCA for treating nonparoxysmal AF in patients with moderate MR. The MR jet/LA area ratio was positively associated with ATa recurrence rate in patients undergoing RFCA. MV prolapse did not affect prognosis in patients undergoing SA + MV surgery.
Clinical impact of insulin resistance on pulmonary vein isolation outcome in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Hijioka Naoko , Kamioka Masashi , Matsumoto Yoshiyuki , Nodera Minoru , Yamada Shinya , Kaneshiro Takashi , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Ishida Takafumi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: December 2018

Introduction

The relationship between insulin resistance and atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) remains unclear.

Methods

Drug‐refractory 114 paroxysmal AF patients (89 males, 62 ± 8 years) who underwent successful PVI were enrolled. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) was calculated and a value of ≥2.5 was defined as insulin resistant. The left atrial volume index (LAVI) was measured using echocardiography before and 1 year after PVI. Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and TGF‐β1 serum levels were measured before PVI, and the left atrium (LA) conduction velocity was calculated. The patients were divided into two groups (group 1: HOMA‐IR < 2.5, n = 81; group 2: HOMA‐IR ≥ 2.5, n = 33).

Results

The LAVI between the two groups before PVI did not significantly differ (P > 0.05), nor did TNF‐α (7.7 ± 2.0 vs 7.5 ± 1.0 pg/mL; P = 0.149) or TGF‐β1 (28.4 ± 12.0 vs 27.6 ± 10.3 ng/mL; P = 0.757). LAVI before and 1 year after PVI in each group did not change. The conduction velocity of group 2 was slower than that of group 1 (0.7 ± 0.1 vs 1.1 ± 0.3 m/s, P < 0.001). Kaplan‐Meier analysis showed significantly higher AF recurrence in group 2 than that in group 1 (
P = 0.019). Cox multivariable analysis revealed that insulin resistance was an independent predictor of recurrence (hazard ratio 1.287, P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that insulin resistance promotes LA electrical remodeling and might be related to AF recurrence after PVI.
Mechanisms and management of inappropriate therapy in subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators
Authors: Karnik Ankur A. , Helm Robert H. , Monahan Kevin M.
Published: December 2018

Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators (S‐ICDs) provide reliable defibrillation and have enhanced supraventricular tachycardia discrimination and fewer infection rates compared with traditional transvenous systems. However, inappropriate shocks remain a frequent problem. Herein, we review the various mechanisms of these inappropriate therapies, some of which are unique to S‐ICDs, and propose an algorithm for preventing recurrences. Proper screening of preimplants is essential to help minimize inappropriate therapies, but patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Brugada syndrome, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy are at particular risk and may require additional measures.