bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A THRESHOLD MODEL OF COLLECTIVE CRIME
Authors: MCGLOIN JEAN MARIE , ROWAN ZACHARY R.
Published: July 2015

The group nature of offending has been recognized as an inherent characteristic of criminal behavior, yet our insight on the decision to engage in group crime is limited. This article argues that a threshold model offers broad appeal to understand this decision. After discussing the basis of this model and its applicability to collective crime, we offer one example of the kind of research that could stem from this model. Specifically, by using survey data from 583 university students, this study asked respondents to self‐report thresholds for group theft and destruction of property. By experimentally manipulating characteristics of the hypothetical scenario used to measure thresholds, we investigated both the individual‐ and situational‐level correlates of these self‐reported thresholds. The discussion considers the results that emerge from a Tobit regression model and offers suggestions for future research that would provide further refinement of the threshold model.
Past climate change and recent anthropogenic activities affect genetic structure and population demography of the greater long‐tailed hamster in northern China
Authors: YE Junbin , XIAO Zhenlong , LI Chuanhai , WANG Fusheng , LIAO Jicheng , FU Jinzhong , ZHANG Zhibin
Published: July 2015

The genetic diversity and the spatial structure of a species are likely consequences of both past and recent evolutionary processes, but relevant studies are still rare in East Asia where the Pleistocene climate has unique influences. In this study, we examined the impact of past climate change and recent anthropogenic activities on the genetic structure and population size of the greater long‐tailed hamster (Tscherskia triton), an agricultural rodent pest species in northern China. DNA sequence data of 2 mitochondrial genes and genotypic data of 11 microsatellite DNA loci from 41 populations (545 individuals) were gathered. Phylogenetic and population genetic analyses, as well as species distribution modeling and coalescent simulations, were conducted to infer its historical and demographic patterns and processes. Two deeply diverged mitochondrial clades were recovered. A small one was restricted to the Shandong Peninsula while the main clade was further divided into 3 geographic clusters by their microsatellite DNA genotypes: Northwest, North‐center and Northeast. Divergence dating indicated a Middle‐to‐Late Pleistocene divergence between the 2 clades. Demographic analysis indicated that all 3 and pooled populations showed consistent long‐period expansions during last glacial period; but not during the Holocene, probably due to the impact of climate warming and human disturbances. Conflicting patterns between mtDNA and microsatellite markers imply an anthropogenic impact on North‐center populations due to intensified agricultural cultivation in this region. Our study demonstrated that the impact of past glaciation on organisms in East Asia significantly differs from that of Europe and North America, and human activity is an important factor in determining the genetic diversity of a species, as well as its spatial structure.
Diabetes and obesity trends in Fiji over 30 years
Authors: Lin Sophia , Tukana Isimeli , Linhart Christine , Morrell Stephen , Taylor Richard , Vatucawaqa Penina , Magliano Dianna J. , Zimmet Paul
Published: July 2015

Background

No systematic comparison has been conducted in Fiji using all suitable surveys of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity prevalence after standardizing methodology and definitions.

Methods

Unit records from six surveys of Fiji adults were variously adjusted for age, ethnicity (Fiji Melanesians, i‐Taukei, and Fijians of Asian Indian descent [Indians]) and urban–rural by sex to previous censuses. Trends were assessed using meta‐regression (random effect models) and estimates projected to 2020. Poisson regression of strata was used to assess the effect of body mass index (BMI) increases on T2DM period trends.

Results

Over 1980–2011, T2DM prevalence increased in i‐Taukei men (3.2% to 11.1%; 1.32%/5 years) and women (5.3% to 13.6%; 1.40%/5 years) and Indian men (11.1% to 17.9%; 1.24%/5 years) and women (11.2% to 19.9%; 1.71%/5 years). Projected T2DM prevalence in 2020 is 13.3% and 16.7% in i‐Taukei men and women, and 23.4% and 24.1% in Indian men and women, respectively. Obesity prevalence increased in i‐Taukei men (12.6% to 28.9%; 2.99%/5 years) and women (30.1% to 52.9%; 3.84%/5 years) and in Indian men (2.8% to 9.4%; 1.21%/5 years) and women (13.2% to 26.6%; 2.61%/5 years). Projected obesity prevalence in 2020 is 34.0% and 60.0% in i‐Taukei and women, and 11.4% and 31.0% in Indian men and women, respectively. After age‐adjustment, an estimated 27%, 25%, 16% and 18% of the T2DM period trend is attributable to BMI in i‐Taukei men and women and Indian men and women, respectively.

Conclusions

Prevalence of T2DM in Fiji is projected to continue increasing, driven by rising obesity, with consequences for premature mortality and life expectancy.
Optimal student loans and graduate tax under moral hazard and adverse selection
Authors: Gary‐Bobo Robert J. , Trannoy Alain
Published: July 2015

We characterize the set of second‐best “menus” of student‐loan contracts in an economy with risky labor‐market outcomes, adverse selection, moral hazard, and risk aversion. We combine student loans with optimal income taxation. Second‐best optima provide incomplete insurance because of moral hazard. Optimal repayments must be income contingent, or the income tax must comprise a graduate tax. Individuals are ex ante unequal because of differing probabilities of success, and ex post unequal, because taxation trades off incentives and redistribution. In addition, second‐best optima exhibit an interim equalization property: the poststudy but prework expected utilities of newly graduated student types must be equal.
Dynamic labor demand in China: public and private objectives
Authors: Cooper Russell , Gong Guan , Yan Ping
Published: July 2015

This article studies dynamic labor demand by private and public manufacturing plants in China. The analysis uncovers the objectives of public and private enterprises and estimates labor adjustment costs by ownership. Public plants maximize the discounted present value of profits without a soft budget constraint. There is strong evidence of quadratic and linear firing costs at the plant level. The higher quadratic adjustment costs of the public plants may reflect their internalization of social costs of employment adjustment. Domestic private plants and collective plants have about the same discount factor, much lower than state‐controlled plants.
How limiting deceptive practices harms consumers
Authors: Piccolo Salvatore , Tedeschi Piero , Ursino Giovanni
Published: July 2015

There are two competing sellers of an experience good, one offers high quality, one low. The low‐quality seller can engage in deceptive advertising, potentially fooling a buyer into thinking the product is better than it is. Although deceptive advertising might seem to harm the buyer, we show that he could be better off when the low‐quality seller can engage in deceptive advertising than not. We characterize the optimal deterrence rule that a regulatory agency seeking to punish deceptive practices should adopt. We show that greater protection against deceptive practices does not necessarily improve the buyer welfare.
stagePop: modelling stage‐structured populations in r
Authors: Kettle Helen , Nutter David
Published: July 2015

We present an r‐package, stagePop, which is a tool for predicting the deterministic dynamics and interactions of stage‐structured populations (i.e. where the life cycle consists of distinct stages, for example eggs, juveniles and reproductive adults).

The continuous‐time formulation enables stagePop to easily simulate time‐varying stage durations, overlapping generations and density‐dependent vital rates.

The package can be used to predict predator–prey interactions, host–parasitoid interactions, resource competition, intra‐specific competition and the effects of environmental change on stage‐structured (and non‐stage structured) species.

It can be used for predicting the effects of bio‐control and climate change, investigating mechanisms for maintaining diversity, predicting the dynamics of complex food webs following perturbation and so on.

The code is based on the formulation by Nisbet and Gurney (Theoretical Population Biology, 23, 1983, 114) using delay‐differential equations, which are solved using the r‐packages deSolve or PBSddesolve.
TLR2 and TLR4 Expression and Inflammatory Cytokines are Altered in the Airway Epithelium of Those with Alcohol Use Disorders
Authors: Bailey Kristina L. , Romberger Debra J. , Katafiasz Dawn M. , Heires Art J. , Sisson Joseph H. , Wyatt Todd A. , Burnham Ellen L.
Published: July 2015

Background

The lung has a highly regulated system of innate immunity to protect itself from inhaled microbes and toxins. The first line of defense is mucociliary clearance, but if invaders overcome this, inflammatory pathways are activated. Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are expressed on the airway epithelium. Their signaling initiates the inflammatory cascade and leads to production of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐8. We hypothesized that airway epithelial insults, including heavy alcohol intake or smoking, would alter the expression of TLRs on the airway epithelium.

Methods

Bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage and brushings of the airway epithelium was performed in otherwise healthy subjects who had normal chest radiographs and spirometry. A history of alcohol use disorders (AUDs) was ascertained using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), and a history of cigarette smoking was also obtained. Age, gender, and nutritional status in all groups were similar. We used real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to quantitate TLR1 to 9 and enzyme‐linked immune assay to measure tumor necrosis factor‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐8.

Results

Airway brushings were obtained from 26 nonsmoking/non‐AUD subjects, 28 smoking/non‐AUD subjects, 36 smoking/AUD subjects, and 17 nonsmoking/AUD subjects. We found that TLR2 is up‐regulated in AUD subjects, compared to nonsmoking/non‐AUD subjects, and correlated with their AUDIT scores. We also measured a decrease in TLR4 expression in AUD subjects that correlated with AUDIT score. IL‐6 and IL‐8 were also increased in bronchial washings from AUD subjects.

Conclusions

We have previously demonstrated in normal human bronchial epithelial cells that in vitro alcohol exposure up‐regulates TLR2 through a NO/cGMP/PKG‐dependent pathway, resulting in up‐regulation of inflammatory cytokine production after Gram‐positive bacterial product stimulation. Our current translational study confirms that TLR2 is also up‐regulated in humans with AUDs.
Content Themes of Alcohol Advertising in U.S. Television—Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Morgenstern Matthis , Schoeppe Franziska , Campbell Julie , Braam Marloes W. G. , Stoolmiller Michael , Sargent James D.
Published: July 2015

Background

There is little alcohol research that reports on the thematic contents of contemporary alcohol advertisements in U.S. television. Studies of alcohol ads from 2 decades ago did not identify “Partying” as a social theme. Aim of this study was to describe and classify alcohol advertisements aired in national television in terms of contents, airing times, and channel placements and to identify different marketing strategies of alcohol brands.

Methods

Content analysis of all ads from the top 20 U.S. beer and spirit brands aired between July 2009 and June 2011. These were 581 unique alcohol ads accounting for 272,828 (78%) national television airings. Ads were coded according to predefined definitions of 13 content areas. A latent class analysis (LCA) was conducted to define content cluster themes and determine alcoholic brands that were more likely to exploit these themes.

Results

About half of the advertisements (46%) were aired between 3 am and 8 pm, and the majority were placed either in Entertainment (40%) and Sports (38%) channels. Beer ads comprised 64% of the sample, with significant variation in airing times and channels between types of products and brands. LCA revealed 5 content classes that exploited the “Partying,” “Quality,” “Sports,” “Manly,” and “Relax” themes. The partying class, indicative of ad messages surrounding partying, love, and sex, was the dominant theme comprising 42% of all advertisements. Ads for alcopops, flavored spirits, and liqueur were more likely to belong to the party class, but there were also some beer brands (Corona, Heineken) where more than 67% of ads exploited this theme.

Conclusions

This is the first analysis to identify a partying theme to contemporary alcohol advertising. Future analyses can now determine whether exposure to that or other themes predicts alcohol misuse among youth audiences.
Incorporating habitat distribution in wildlife disease models: conservation implications for the threat of squirrelpox on the Isle of Arran
Authors: Macpherson M. F. , Davidson R. S. , Duncan D. B. , Lurz P. W. , Jarrott A. , White A.
Published: July 2015

Emerging infectious diseases are a substantial threat to native populations. The spread of disease through naive native populations will depend on both demographic and disease parameters, as well as on habitat suitability and connectivity. Using the potential spread of squirrelpox virus (SQPV) on the Isle of Arran as a case study, we develop mathematical models to examine the impact of an emerging disease on a population in a complex landscape of different habitat types. Furthermore, by considering a range of disease parameters, we infer more generally how complex landscapes interact with disease characteristics to determine the spread and persistence of disease. Specific findings indicate that a SQPV outbreak on Arran is likely to be short lived and localized to the point of introduction allowing recovery of red squirrels to pre‐infection densities; this has important consequences for the conservation of red squirrels. More generally, we find that the extent of disease spread is dependent on the rare passage of infection through poor quality corridors connecting good quality habitats. Acute, highly transmissible infectious diseases are predicted to spread rapidly causing high mortality. Nonetheless, the disease typically fades out following local epidemics and is not supported in the long term. A chronic infectious disease is predicted to spread more slowly but can remain endemic in the population. This allows the disease to spread more extensively in the long term as it increases the chance of spread between poorly connected populations. Our results highlight how a detailed understanding of landscape connectivity is crucial when considering conservation strategies to protect native species from disease threats.
A case of upper gingiva carcinoma with chronic graft‐versus‐host disease after allogenic bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Tsushima F , Sakurai J , Harada H
Published: July 2015

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common solid tumours occurring after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), especially in patients with chronic graft‐versus‐host‐disease (cGVHD). We describe a case of OSCC that developed in a 51‐year‐old male 22 years after he had received allogeneic HSCT from his human leukocyte antigen‐identical sister as a treatment for acute myelocytic leukaemia. The patient had presented with multiple white patchy lesions on the palatal gingiva and mucosa 16 years after HSCT; these lesions were consistent with the clinical features of cGVHD. Six years later, oral examination and biopsy revealed upper gingival squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in areas of cGVHD, and he underwent tumour excision. Follow‐up examination at 2 years and 4 months after the operation revealed no evidence of recurrence of local SCC or metastasis of the cervical lymph node. The current case highlights the susceptibility of patients with cGVHD to the development of OSCC even two decades after HSCT. Therefore, we recommend careful long‐term follow‐up of the oral cavity for patients with cGVHD.
A retrospective review of stillbirths at the national hospital in Timor‐Leste
Authors: Wilkins Alexa , Earnest Jaya , Mccarthy Elizabeth Anne , Shub Alexis
Published: July 2015

Background

Timor‐Leste has high maternal and infant mortality rates. Estimates of stillbirths are unreliable and limited by poor collection of vital health statistics. Lack of accurate data impedes the development of interventions to address local determinants of stillbirth.

Aims

This study aimed to identify the rate, timing and causes of stillbirths at National Hospital Guido Valadares in Dili, Timor‐Leste, between November 2009 and December 2010, during which data were available.

Methods

Hospital birth registry and maternal records were retrospectively reviewed to identify stillbirths during the study period. The simplified Cause of Death and Associated Conditions system was utilised to classify stillbirths.

Results

One hundred and fifty‐three stillbirths were identified, producing a stillbirth rate of 29 per 1000 births. Of stillbirths with known timing, 70 (66.7%) occurred antepartum and 35 (33.3%) intrapartum. Cause of death could not be ascertained in 62.7% of cases due to poor or missing records. Where identified, the three most commonly classified causes of death were intrapartum fetal asphyxia, maternal infection and maternal hypertensive disorder.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for standardised recording and coding of perinatal deaths at HNGV. The high proportion of antenatal death transfers from community health centres demonstrates the need for community and hospital staff training to improve the quality of antenatal and intrapartum obstetric care. A prospective study of stillbirths is recommended to obtain reliable data on the determinants of stillbirths in Timor‐Leste. These data would inform evidence‐based interventions for the improvement of maternity and obstetric care in community and hospital settings.
Does laparoscopic shaving for deep infiltrating endometriosis alter intestinal function? A prospective study
Authors: Seracchioli Renato , Ferrini Giulia , Montanari Giulia , Raimondo Diego , Spagnolo Emanuela , Di Donato Nadine
Published: July 2015

Background

5–12% of deep infiltrating endometriosis involves the digestive tract, especially the distal sigmoid colon and rectum. Bowel endometriosis surgery may be associated with neurological complications.

Aim

The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate whether excision of rectosigmoid deep infiltrating endometriosis by shaving technique alters intestinal and defecatory function at 6‐months post‐surgery.

Materials and Methods

Nineteen women were enrolled in our tertiary care university hospital. They were affected by rectosigmoid endometriosis and underwent laparoscopic shaving excision of the nodule. Anorectal manometry was performed prior to and after surgery. The parameters studied were resting pressure, maximum squeezing pressure, pushing, rectoanal inhibitory reflex and rectal sensibility. The women completed a defecatory function questionnaire and ranked pain symptoms using a visual analogue scale.

Results

After surgery, no alteration of rectoanal inhibitory reflex was found. The tone of the internal anal sphincter was not significantly different before and after surgery. The defecatory function questionnaire revealed a significant improvement in constipation, urgency, bowel movements and anal eczema. No cases of incontinence were described.

Conclusions

This report of the objective assessment of neurological intestinal alterations after rectal shaving of endometriotic nodules suggests the laparoscopic shaving technique preserves intestinal neurological activity.
Breastfeeding and the risk of dental caries: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tham R , Bowatte G , Dharmage SC , Tan DJ , Lau MXZ , Dai X , Allen KJ , Lodge CJ
Published: July 2015

Aim

To synthesise the current evidence for the associations between breastfeeding and dental caries, with respect to specific windows of early childhood caries risk.

Methods

Systematic review, meta‐analyses and narrative synthesis following searches of PubMed, CINAHL and EMBASE databases.

Results

Sixty‐three papers included. Children exposed to longer versus shorter duration of breastfeeding up to age 12 months (more versus less breastfeeding), had a reduced risk of caries (OR 0.50; 95%CI 0.25, 0.99, I2 86.8%). Children breastfed >12 months had an increased risk of caries when compared with children breastfed <12 months (seven studies (OR 1.99; 1.35, 2.95, I2 69.3%). Amongst children breastfed >12 months, those fed nocturnally or more frequently had a further increased caries risk (five studies, OR 7.14; 3.14, 16.23, I2 77.1%). There was a lack of studies on children aged >12 months simultaneously assessing caries risk in breastfed, bottle‐fed and children not bottle or breastfed, alongside specific breastfeeding practices, consuming sweet drinks and foods, and oral hygiene practices limiting our ability to tease out the risks attributable to each.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding in infancy may protect against dental caries. Further research needed to understand the increased risk of caries in children breastfed after 12 months.
Factors governing long‐term adherence to a gluten‐free diet in adult patients with coeliac disease
Authors: Villafuerte‐Galvez J. , Vanga R. R. , Dennis M. , Hansen J. , Leffler D. A. , Kelly C. P. , Mukherjee R.
Published: July 2015

Background

A strict gluten‐free diet is the cornerstone of treatment for coeliac disease. Studies of gluten‐free diet adherence have rarely used validated instruments. There is a paucity of data on long‐term adherence to the gluten‐free diet in the adult population.

Aims

To determine the long‐term adherence to the gluten‐free diet and potential associated factors in a large coeliac disease referral centre population.

Methods

We performed a mailed survey of adults with clinically, serologically and histologically confirmed coeliac disease diagnosed ≥5 years prior to survey. The previously validated Celiac Disease Adherence Test was used to determine adherence. Demographic, socio‐economic and potentially associated factors were analysed with adherence as the outcome.

Results

The response rate was 50.1% of 709 surveyed, the mean time on a gluten‐free diet 9.9 ± 6.4 years. Adequate adherence (celiac disease adherence test score <13) was found in 75.5% of respondents. A higher level of education was associated with adequate adherence (P = 0.002) even after controlling for household income (P = 0.0220). Perceptions of cost, effectiveness of the gluten‐free diet, knowledge of the gluten‐free diet and self‐effectiveness at following the gluten‐free diet correlated with adherence scores (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Long‐term adherence to a gluten‐free diet was adequate in >75% of respondents. Perceived cost remains a barrier to adherence. Perceptions of effectiveness of gluten‐free diet as well as its knowledge, are potential areas for intervention.
Bacterial endotoxin and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in the general population: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wong V. W.‐S. , Wong G. L.‐H. , Chan H.‐Y. , Yeung D. K.‐W. , Chan R. S.‐M. , Chim A. M.‐L. , Chan C. K.‐M. , Tse Y.‐K. , Woo J. , Chu W. C.‐W. , Chan H. L.‐Y.
Published: July 2015

Background

Patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have increased intestinal permeability and small intestine bacterial overgrowth.

Aims

To test the hypothesis that endotoxemia is associated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the general population, and to study dietary factors associated with endotoxemia.

Methods

Nine hundred and twenty adults were randomly selected from the government's census database and underwent proton‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy to assess hepatic steatosis. Endotoxemia was assessed using the limulus amebocyte lysate, lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP) and EndoCab immunoglobulin G (IgG) assays.

Results

Two hundred and sixty‐three (29%) subjects had NAFLD. Subjects with NAFLD had slightly higher LBP (P < 0.001) and EndoCab IgG (P = 0.013) levels. EndoCab IgG remained an independent factor associated with intrahepatic triglycerides after adjusting for other metabolic factors. Among 565 subjects without NAFLD at baseline who had repeated assessment at a median interval of 47 months, 78 (13.8%) developed incident NAFLD and they also had higher LBP (P = 0.016). Moreover, LBP was associated with insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia, and modestly increased with the cytokeratin‐18 fragment level but not liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography. Although total energy consumption and individual macronutrients were not associated with endotoxemia, current drinkers (mostly <140 g/week) had lower endotoxin, EndoCab IgG and fetuin‐A levels than nondrinkers.

Conclusions

Endotoxin markers are associated with NAFLD in the general population, but do not have a major effect on NASH and fibrosis. People with modest alcohol consumption have lower serum endotoxin. This may partly explain the lower risk of NAFLD and NASH in modest drinkers in previous observational studies.
Induction of ovine trophoblast cell fusion by fematrin‐1 in vitro
Authors: Koshi Katsuo , Nakaya Yuki , Kizaki Keiichiro , Ishiguro‐Oonuma Toshina , Miyazawa Takayuki , Spencer Thomas E. , Hashizume Kazuyoshi
Published: July 2015

Endogenous retroviruses present in the genomes take a specific role in placental formation in various vertebrates, including bovine and sheep. Fematrin‐1, which is the envelope (Env) protein of bovine endogenous retrovirus found in bovine placenta, is involved in the formation of fetomaternal hybrid cells in cattle placenta. This study was conducted to clarify whether fematrin‐1 possesses fusogenic activity in trophoblast cells. Another question is whether Env proteins only have species‐specific activity or not. For this, fematrin‐1 gene was transfected in ovine trophoblast cells, and we examined fusogenic activity with Cos‐7 cells. Although fematrin‐1 fusogenic activity was detected in both neutral and acidic pH conditions, acidic condition significantly enhanced it. These activities were rather weaker than those of vesicular stomatitis virus G protein as a positive control. However, the ratio of fematrin‐1 and vesicular stomatitis virus G protein fusion index was confirmed similar to those in the previous reports. Some fusion cells showed multinucleate cells. These results imply that fematrin‐1 is involved in the formation of trophoblast hybrid cells even in different species trophoblastic cells.
Unfreezing cognitions during an intractable conflict: Does an external incentive for negotiating peace and (low levels of) collective angst increase information seeking?
Authors: Wohl Michael J. A. , Porat Roni , Halperin Eran
Published: July 2015

A core feature of intractable conflicts is the tendency to cognitively freeze on existing, pro‐ingroup beliefs. In three experiments, conducted in the context of the Palestinian–Israeli conflict, we tested the idea that an external incentive for negotiating peace helps unfreeze cognitions. In Experiment 1, making salient that peace with the Palestinians would reduce the Iranian nuclear threat (an external incentive) led to a process of unfreezing. In Experiment 2, we examined whether collective angst as an emotional sentiment (i.e., concern for the ingroup's future vitality as a temporally stable emotional disposition) moderated the aforementioned external incentive–cognitive unfreezing link. As predicted, external incentive salience promoted cognitive unfreezing, but only among people low in collective angst (i.e., people who are not concerned for the ingroup's future). In Experiment 3, we sought to replicate the results of Experiment 2. However, socio‐political forces (i.e., a significant upswing in tensions between Palestinians and Israelis) likely served to freeze cognitions to such an extent that thawing was not possible by the means demonstrated in Experiments 1 and 2. The importance of confidence in a peace process is discussed in the context of efforts to unfreeze cognitions during an intractable conflict.
On the origin of spontaneous activity in the bladder
Authors: Kushida Nobuhiro , Fry Christopher H.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To characterise separately the pharmacological profiles of spontaneous contractions from the mucosa and detrusor layers of the bladder wall and to describe the relationship in mucosa between adenosine triphosphate (ATP) release and spontaneous contractions.

Materials and Methods

Spontaneous contractions were measured (36 °C) from isolated mucosa or detrusor preparations, and intact (mucosa + detrusor) preparations from guinea‐pig bladders. Potential modulators were added to the superfusate. The percentage of smooth muscle was measured in haematoxylin and eosin stained sections. ATP release was measured in superfusate samples from a fixed point above the preparation using a luciferin–luciferase assay.

Results

The magnitude of spontaneous contractions was in the order intact >mucosa >detrusor. The percentage of smooth muscle was least in mucosa and greatest in detrusor preparations. The pharmacological profiles of spontaneous contractions were different in mucosa and detrusor in response to P2X or P2Y receptor agonists, adenosine and capsaicin. The intact preparations showed responses intermediate to those from mucosa and detrusor preparations. Low extracellular pH generated large changes in detrusor, but not mucosa preparations. The mucosa preparations released ATP in a cyclical manner, followed by variations in spontaneous contractions. ATP release was greater in mucosa compared with detrusor, augmented by carbachol and reversed by the M2‐selective antagonist, methoctramine.

Conclusions

The different pharmacological profiles of bladder mucosa and detrusor, implies different pathways for contractile activation. Also, the intermediate responses from intact preparations implies functional interaction. The temporal relationship between cyclical variation of ATP release and amplitude of spontaneous contractions is consistent with ATP release controlling spontaneous activity. Carbachol‐mediated ATP release was independent of active contractile force.
β‐Blockers have differential effects on the murine asthma phenotype
Authors: Thanawala V J , Valdez D J , Joshi R , Forkuo G S , Parra S , Knoll B J , Bouvier M , Leff P , Bond R A
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose

Our previous studies have shown the β2‐adrenoceptor and its endogenous ligand, adrenaline, are required for development of the asthma phenotype in murine asthma models. Chronic administration of some, but not other, β‐blockers attenuated the asthma phenotype and led us to hypothesize that biased signalling was the basis of their differential effects, experimentally and clinically.

Experimental Approach

We used mice with no detectable systemic adrenaline (PNMT‐/‐) and wild‐type (WT) mice to study the effects of four β‐blockers, alprenolol, carvedilol, propranolol and nadolol, in an ovalbumin sensitization and challenge (Ova S/C) murine model of asthma. The parameters measured were inflammatory cell infiltration, mucous metaplasia and airway hyperresponsiveness. To interpret the pharmacological action of these ligands quantitatively, we conducted computer simulations of three‐state models of receptor activation.

Key Results

Ova S/C PNMT‐/‐ mice do not develop an asthma phenotype. Here, we showed that administration of alprenolol, carvedilol or propranolol in the absence of interference from adrenaline using Ova S/C PNMT‐/‐ mice resulted in the development of an asthma phenotype, whereas nadolol had no effect. Ova S/C WT mice did develop an asthma phenotype, and administration of alprenolol, propranolol and carvedilol had no effect on the asthma phenotype. However, nadolol prevented development of the asthma phenotype in Ova S/C WT mice. Computer simulations of these four ligands were consistent with the isolated three‐state receptor model.

Conclusion and Implications

β‐Blockers have different effects on the murine asthma phenotype that correlate with reported differences in activation or inhibition of downstream β2‐adrenoceptor signalling pathways.
Follicular and endocrine dose responses according to anti‐Müllerian hormone levels in IVF patients treated with a novel human recombinant FSH (FE 999049)
Authors: Bosch Ernesto , Nyboe Andersen Anders , Barri Pedro , García‐Velasco Juan Antonio , de Sutter Petra , Fernández‐Sánchez Manuel , Visnova Hana , Klein Bjarke M. , Mannaerts Bernadette , Arce Joan‐Carles
Published: July 2015

Objective

To study the association between serum anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels and follicular development and endocrine responses induced by increasing doses (5·2–12·1μg/day) of a novel recombinant human FSH (rhFSH, FE 999049) in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in a GnRH antagonist protocol.

Design

Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial with stratified randomization according to AMH (lower stratum: 5·0–14·9 pmol/l; higher stratum: 15·0–44·9 pmol/l).

Patients

Infertile women of good prognosis (n = 265).

Measurements

Follicular development and endocrine parameters during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) with rhFSH.

Results

Serum FSH levels increased with increasing rhFSH doses and steady‐state levels for each dose were similar in both AMH strata. In the whole study population, significant (P < 0·001) positive dose responses were observed for the number of follicles ≥12 mm, and serum levels of oestradiol, inhibin B, inhibin A and progesterone at end of stimulation. In comparison with the higher AMH stratum, patients in the lower AMH stratum had significantly different slopes of the dose–response curves for these hormones, and no clear dose‐related increase was observed for the number of follicles in these patients.

Conclusions

Dose–response relationships between rhFSH and follicular development and endocrine parameters are significantly different for IVF/ICSI patients with lower and higher serum AMH levels at start of COS.
Adult children of parents with mental illness: navigating stigma
Authors: Murphy Gillian , Peters Kath , Wilkes Lesley , Jackson Debra
Published: July 2015

The experiences of children who live with parental mental illness are becoming increasingly recognized. However, there remains a limited body of knowledge in relation to an individual's longer term experiences. This study sought adult children's experiences of childhood parental mental illness. It generated reflections of 13 adult children who had lived with parents with mental illness during their childhood. The narrative design of the study facilitated a voice for participants. The paper presents one main theme of the findings. The findings offer a unique insight into childhood awareness of social stigmas and children's behavioural changes to avoid disclosure of parental mental illness. Participants noted that they were aware of social stigmas associated with mental illness during their childhood. This contributed to their fear of disclosure to others that fuelled a culture of familial secrecy, reinforcing the children's own sense of difference. Further work is required to enhance community understanding about the familial journeys of parental mental illness and the impact of negative‐natured stigmas.
Chloral Hydrate Preconditioning Protects Against Ischemic Stroke via Upregulating Annexin A1
Authors: Liu Jiu‐Hong , Feng Dan , Zhang Yu‐Fen , Shang You , Wu Yan , Li Xiao‐Feng , Pei Lei
Published: July 2015

Aims

Preconditioning is promising for treating cerebral ischemic stroke. Annexin A1 (ANXA1) is a homeostatic antiinflammatory mediator that participates in countering against ischemic injuries. We investigated whether chloral hydrate preconditioning (CH) exerts neuroprotection via regulation of ANXA1 in stroke.

Methods

Adult male C57BL/6J mice or ANXA1 knockout (ANXA1−/−) mice were randomly allocated to control (NCH) and CH groups [2%, 6%, and 10% chloral hydrate (i.p.) 1 h before the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)]. Neurological performances were evaluated by modified 7‐point neurological scales and rotarod test. Cerebral infarction was analyzed by triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and MRI. The expression of ANXA1, pro‐inflammatory (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6), and antiinflammatory (IL‐4, IL‐10, TGF‐β) cytokines was investigated by RT‐PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence.

Results

Chloral hydrate preconditioning significantly improved the neurological outcomes and reduced the infarction and brain edema after ischemia. In addition, CH increased the expression of ANXA1 in the microglia, decreased the levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6, while elevated the levels of IL‐4, IL‐10, and TGF‐β in the MCAO mice. Furthermore, both ANXA1 blocker Boc1 (5 mg/kg, i.c.v.) or ANXA1 gene deficiency restrained the protective effects of CH against stroke.

Conclusions

Chloral hydrate preconditioning protects against ischemic injuries through upregulating the expression of ANXA1, and the followed antiinflammatory mechanisms.
The Relationship Between Artificial and Second Language Learning
Authors: Ettlinger Marc , Morgan‐Short Kara , Faretta‐Stutenberg Mandy , Wong Patrick C.M.
Published: July 2015

Artificial language learning (ALL) experiments have become an important tool in exploring principles of language and language learning. A persistent question in all of this work, however, is whether ALL engages the linguistic system and whether ALL studies are ecologically valid assessments of natural language ability. In the present study, we considered these questions by examining the relationship between performance in an ALL task and second language learning ability. Participants enrolled in a Spanish language class were evaluated using a number of different measures of Spanish ability and classroom performance, which was compared to IQ and a number of different measures of ALL performance. The results show that success in ALL experiments, particularly more complex artificial languages, correlates positively with indices of L2 learning even after controlling for IQ. These findings provide a key link between studies involving ALL and our understanding of second language learning in the classroom.
Risk of new‐onset heart failure in patients using sitagliptin: a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Eurich D. T. , Weir D. L. , Simpson S. H. , Senthilselvan A. , McAlister F. A.
Published: July 2015

Aims

To examine whether patients using sitagliptin at the time of an acute coronary syndrome event are at increased risk of incident heart failure compared with those not exposed.

Methods

Using US claims data, people with diabetes without a history of heart failure in the 3 years before hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome were identified for the period 2004 to 2010. We used a nested case–control design, whereby cases were patients who developed incident heart failure <30 days after admission to hospital for acute coronary syndrome and were matched by age and sex with up to 10 controls with no heart failure. Subjects exposed or not exposed to sitagliptin in the 90 days before acute coronary syndrome admission were compared using conditional logistic regression after adjustment for clinical and laboratory data, healthcare utilization and propensity scores.

Results

In total, 457 cases of heart failure developing de novo after diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome were matched to 4570 controls. The average age of the subjects was 55 years and 65% were male. Overall, 11 of 147 (7%) people exposed to sitagliptin developed heart failure compared with 446 of the 4880 people not exposed (9%, adjusted odds ratio 0.75, 95% CI 0.38–1.46; P=0.40). Sitagliptin exposure before acute coronary syndrome was not associated with an increased risk of death or heart failure combined (7% vs 9%, adjusted odds ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.34–1.28).

Conclusions

In our sample of patients who are at high risk of heart failure after acute coronary syndrome, sitagliptin exposure was not associated with an increased risk of de novo heart failure.
THE ATTACK‐AND‐DEFENSE GROUP CONTESTS: BEST SHOT VERSUS WEAKEST LINK
Authors: Chowdhury Subhasish M. , Topolyan Iryna
Published: July 2015

This study analyzes a group contest in which one group (defenders) follows a weakest link, whereas the other group (attackers) follows a best shot impact function (IF). We fully characterize the Nash and coalition‐proof equilibria and show that with symmetric valuation the coalition‐proof equilibrium is unique up to the permutation of the identity of the active player in the attacker group. With asymmetric valuation, it is always an equilibrium for one of the highest valuation players to be active; it may also be the case that the highest valuation players in the attacker group free‐ride completely on a group member with a lower valuation. However, in any equilibrium, only one player in the attacker group is active, whereas all the players in the defender group are active and exert the same effort. We also characterize the Nash and coalition‐proof equilibria for the case in which one group follows either a best shot or a weakest link but the other group follows an additive IF. (JELC72, D70, D72, D74, H41)
Raspberry inflicts associational susceptibility to meadowsweet in a complex food web
Authors: Stenberg Johan A. , Ericson Lars
Published: July 2015

Meadowsweet [Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. (Rosaceae)] has previously been reported to enjoy associational resistance in mixed populations with purple loosestrife [Lythrum salicariaL. (Lythraceae)] due to a shared hymenopteran parasitoid that provides top–down control of herbivory. Here, we report that meadowsweet suffers associational susceptibility in mixed populations with raspberry [Rubus idaeusL. (Rosaceae)] due to a shared herbivore, the raspberry flea beetle [Batophila rubi (Paykull) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)]. Close to raspberry (less than 0.5 m), herbivory on meadowsweet often reached 20–25%, whereas further away (1.5–2 m) herbivory was almost always 0%. We especially highlight the different scales at which the opposing associational effects occur. The shared parasitoid forages throughout entire populations, making the level of population the focal scale of the associational resistance. The shared herbivore, however, spills over from raspberry to neighboring meadowsweets only, making the distance to individual raspberry plants the focal scale for associational susceptibility for meadowsweet. We conclude that different co‐occurring plant species can mediate opposing associational effects on a focal host plant by altering the abundance and composition of herbivores and parasitoids, respectively, resulting in multiple selection layers to the geographic mosaic of herbivory.
Phytophthora cambivora found on beech in Norway
Authors: Telfer K. H. , Brurberg M. B. , Herrero M.‐L. , Stensvand A. , Talgø V.
Published: July 2015

In 2011, Phytophthora cambivora was isolated for the first time from a European beech (Fagus sylvatica) in the largest beech forest in Norway, in Larvik. This led to a survey of Phytophthora, both in Larvik and in a small beech stand in Ås. Both locations are in urban areas in south‐eastern Norway. Trees with a circumference above 20 cm at chest height were examined for bleeding cankers. Samples from the leading edge of canker wounds were collected from selected trees in both locations and isolations were carried out on a Phytophthora‐selective medium. Quantification of diseased trees in three areas of the forest in Larvik showed a variation from 1.8 to 22.7% trees with bleeding cankers. In Ås, 9.2% of the trees had bleeding cankers. Isolation from diseased beech in both Larvik and Ås yielded P. cambivora. Inoculation of healthy trees, subsequent development of disease and re‐isolation of the pathogen confirmed the pathogenicity of P. cambivora. Description of morphological features of one of the obtained isolates is included.
Soil organic matter characterization of temperate peatland soil with FTIR‐spectroscopy: effects of mire type and drainage intensity
Authors: Heller C. , Ellerbrock R. H. , Roßkopf N. , Klingenfuß C. , Zeitz J.
Published: July 2015

Peatlands are an important component of the global carbon cycle because they comprise huge amounts of terrestrial carbon (C). Different conditions during peat formation and secondary peat decomposition affect the quantity and composition of soil organic matter (SOM) in peats. There are few comparative studies on the chemical composition of SOM in temperate peatland soil. This study investigates compositional changes of SOM functional groups in peats and corresponding peat‐forming plants by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Three plant samples and 29 peat samples were taken from seven temperate peatland sites with different genesis and land‐use intensity. Site‐specific differences, such as genesis of the peat, were found to be reflected in the FTIR spectra. In general, there was more variation in FTIR spectra in samples from fens than in those from bogs and peat‐forming plants. The samples from fens have a smaller C–H absorption band than those from bogs and plants, which reflects greater biochemical activity in the minerotrophic than ombrotrophic environments. In addition to peat genesis, drainage and secondary peat decomposition also affect SOM composition substantially. The larger amounts of aliphatic compounds in undrained peats could be explained by selective preservation caused by anaerobic conditions. With increasing drainage of the sites, there was a decrease in the C–H absorption that was accompanied by a relative increase in C=O absorption. These changes in absorption intensities reflect the enhanced aerobic decomposition and mineralization that accompanies drainage and land‐use intensity. However, the ‘degree of peat decomposition’, a diagnostic tool used in the field, is not reflected by OM composition determined by FTIR spectroscopy. Our results contribute to further understanding of changes in SOM composition during peat formation and processes of secondary decomposition caused by drainage.
Cerebral small vessel disease is related to disturbed 24‐h activity rhythms: a population‐based study
Authors: Zuurbier L. A. , Ikram M. A. , Luik A. I. , Hofman A. , Van Someren E. J. W. , Vernooij M. W. , Tiemeier H.
Published: July 2015

Background and purpose

Cerebral small vessel disease is common in elderly persons. Patients with dementia or stroke frequently have cerebral small vessel disease and often experience disturbances in the sleep−wake rhythm. It is unknown whether cerebral small vessel disease is related to disturbances in sleep and 24‐h activity rhythms.

Methods

This study was conducted in the Rotterdam Study. A total of 970 community‐dwelling persons (mean age 59.2 years) underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging and actigraphy. Cerebral small vessel disease was defined as white matter lesions (total volume in millilitres) and the presence of cerebral microbleeds and lacunar infarcts. Twenty‐four hour activity rhythms and sleep were measured with actigraphy by estimating the instability and fragmentation of the activity rhythm and total sleep time. Sleep quality was assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. White matter lesions, instability, fragmentation and sleep quality were standardized for analyses.

Results

Higher white matter lesion volume (B = 0.09 per SD, 95% confidence interval 0.02; 0.15) and cerebral microbleeds (B = 0.19 per SD, 95% confidence interval 0.02; 0.37) were significantly related to more fragmented 24‐h activity rhythms. None of the small vessel disease markers was related to total sleep time or sleep quality.

Conclusions

White matter lesion volume and the presence of cerebral microbleeds are related to disturbed activity rhythms. This suggests that subclinical brain damage affects the 24‐h activity rhythm.