bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Controlling Shareholder Enforcement Gap
Authors: Fiegenbaum Itai
Published: August 2019

The regulation of controlling shareholder related‐party transactions is one of corporate law's animating concerns. A recent Chancery Court decision extends the double approval framework endorsed by the Delaware Supreme Court—independent director committees and a majority of the minority shareholders—to non‐freezeout transactions. This article explains why the Chancery Court's innovation does not decrease the risk faced by minority shareholders. Subjecting a transaction to the double approval framework is a voluntary decision. Transaction planners will willingly traverse this path if the benefits outweigh the loss in deal certainty and attendant costs. When almost every freezeout is challenged in court, the voluntary application of this framework is the logical outcome. The calculus in the non‐freezeout context leads to a different result. Non‐freezeouts must be challenged by a derivative lawsuit. The procedural hurdles inherent in the derivative mechanism affect both the demand for the ratification framework and the incentive to comply. Without a tangible threat of a lawsuit to coax voluntary compliance in the non‐freezeout setting, transaction planners have nothing to gain by subjecting the deal to the double approval gauntlet. This article's analysis reveals a large gap in the enforcement of self‐dealing transactions. Recent high‐profile litigation exposes questionable adherence to the double approval framework for obviously conflicted non‐freezeout transactions. The paucity of derivative lawsuits foretells a troubling fate for similar transactions at less enticing litigation targets. Worse yet, the superficial step toward improved minority shareholder protection stifles the discussion on additional reform.
Short‐term effects of a severe drought on avian diversity and abundance in a Pampas Agroecosystem
Authors: Weyland Federico , Baudry Jacques , Ghersa Claudio
Published: August 2019

Agroecosystems are naturally variable at different scales showing strong environmental variations through time and in space. Therefore, temporal dynamics should be taken into account to understand the species‐habitat relationship and provide information for biodiversity management. Droughts are climatic events that introduce variations in environmental conditions by reducing food resources and are increasing in severity and frequency due to global climate change. In 2008, a severe drought occurred in the argentine Pampas, which allowed us to test its short‐term effect on avian diversity patterns according to different land uses. Also, we could test how variations in net primary productivity affected bird populations and explore the usefulness of this ecological process as an indicator of ecosystem service supply applicable to different ecological contexts. We surveyed bird diversity in two consecutive years (2007–2008) in the Rolling Pampas of Argentina, and we assessed environmental attributes at two spatial scales. We explored the relationship between bird diversity and an ecosystem services provision index (ESPI) that uses a proxy of net primary productivity and its intra‐annual variation to test its adequacy in the changing conditions, we conducted our surveys. Results showed that drought affected negatively both species richness and abundance as a consequence of net primary productivity reductions. There was not a clear association of diversity changes with land use, and it is probable that the effect of drought is a complex combination of productivity, land use and spatial scale. ESPI proved robust in front of the environmental changes, and its predictive capacity was better at larger scales. These results are promising for the assessment of ecosystem services provision in a context of global climate changes.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Seasonal cycle of seed dormancy controls the recruitment ofButia odorata(ARECACEAE) seedlings in savanna‐like palm tree formations in southern Brazil
Authors: Schlindwein Gilson , Schlindwein Carolina Casco Duarte , Dillenburg Lucia Rebello
Published: August 2019

Butia odorata(Barb. Rodr.) Noblick is a palm tree that grows in savanna‐like formations in subtropical regions of South America, and whose regeneration is threatened by agricultural management. Its diaspores are dormant after dispersal which takes place during the summer and early autumn. The aim of this study was to investigate seasonal and microhabitat effects on the germination and seedling recruitment of this palm species. Diaspores were sown in the field, in both open lands and forest patches. During 2 years, we measured seed germination, viability and moisture, seedling emergence and germination response to warm stratification of those seeds that failed to germinate in the field. Germination was concentrated during the summer, when soil temperatures were highest, whilst seedling emergence peaked in the autumn and early winter, when temperature and humidity conditions became less extreme. In open lands, there were two pulses of germination (first and second summer), whilst in forest patches, a single pulse (second summer) was detected. Although overall germination did not differ between microhabitats, the percentage of seedling emergence from seeds that remained buried until the end of the experiment was almost twice as large in the forest patches compared with open areas. The viability of seeds declined over time, particularly in open areas. Laboratory‐induced warm stratification was found to act on seed dormancy release in a cyclic way, being far more effective on seeds retrieved from the field in spring–summer months than in those retrieved in the winter. This cyclic pattern of dormancy inB. odorataseeds results in major seedling recruitment after the summer, under wetter and cooler conditions, thus reducing mortality risk. This process can be enhanced by the presence of surrounding vegetation, which both increases seedling emergence and/or prolongs seed viability.
Reviewing the extent of rural and remote considerations in elder abuse policy: A scoping review
Authors: Blundell Barbara , Warren Amy
Published: August 2019

Objective

To identify national and international research and literature focussed on policy responses to elder abuse in rural and remote communities to generate recommendations for Australian responses.

Design

Scoping literature review.

Setting

Australia (some international policy also included).

Participants

National and international elder abuse policy documents relating to rural and remote responses were reviewed. Seventy‐two stakeholders were invited to contribute literature that may have been missed in the scoping review.

Main outcome measure(s)

Identification of the extent to which issues for rural and remote communities were discussed in elder abuse policy.

Result

Of the 13 Australian policy documents reviewed, only four made mention of rural and remote communities, though this was generally only in regard to increase in vulnerability. No mention of these communities were identified in reviewed global policy. One document focussing on abuse in rural and remote Indigenous communities highlighted the importance of developing culturally appropriate responses hinged on community collaboration and consultation.

Conclusion

Consideration of rural and remote communities in elder abuse policy is generally not meaningful. It is recommended that future policy development includes recognition of the distinct features of elder abuse in rural and remote communities, as well as how these features may impact on prevention and responses in these locations. These features include geographical isolation, lack of access to services and transportation, confidentiality and privacy issues, and the need for culturally sensitive approaches to address elder abuse for Indigenous people which take into account the impact of historical disenfranchisement.
Socio‐economic disparity in global burden of near vision loss: an analysis for 2017 with time trends since 1990
Authors: Wang Yijie , Lou Lixia , Cao Jing , Shao Ji , Ye Juan
Published: August 2019

Purpose

To investigate the socio‐economic disparity in global burden of near vision loss by disability‐adjusted life‐years (DALYs).

Methods

The DALY numbers of country income groups by World Bank classification and the national age‐standardized DALY rates caused by near vision loss were obtained from Global Burden of Disease Study 2017. Human development index (HDI) was collected from the Human Development Report. The association between age‐standardized DALY rates and HDI was analysed. Additionally, the concentration index (CI) and the relative index of inequality (RII) were employed to assess the trends of socio‐economic disparity in the global burden of near vision loss from 1990 to 2017.

Results

The global burden of near vision loss increased from 5.3 million DALYs in 1990 to 9.8 million DALYs in 2017, corresponding to an increase of 82.4%. The highest rate of increase for 1990–2017 occurred in low‐income country group (97.7%). Age‐standardized DALY rates were inversely correlated with HDI (Standardized β = −0.679, P < 0.001). Lower HDI countries displayed higher age‐standardized DALY rates caused by near vision loss. From 1990 to 2017, CI declined from −0.233 to −0.209, and RII increased from 0.149 to 0.247.

Conclusion

The total global burden of near vision loss increased greatly in the past few decades, with low‐income countries showing the highest growth. The age‐standardized burden was higher in countries with lower socio‐economic status. Although a declining trend of socio‐economic inequalities was observed, the persistence of disparities still highlights the need to provide more eye care services for developing countries.
Development of a stratification tool to identify pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms at lowest risk of progression
Authors: Overbeek Kasper A. , Alblas Maaike , Gausman Valerie , Kandel Pujan , Schweber Adam B. , Brooks Christian , Van Riet Priscilla A. , Wallace Michael B. , Gonda Tamas A. , Cahen Djuna L. , Bruno Marco J.
Published: August 2019

Background

Because most pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) will never become malignant, currently advocated long‐term surveillance is low‐yield for most individuals.

Aim

To develop a score chart identifying IPMNs at lowest risk of developing worrisome features or high‐risk stigmata.

Methods

We combined prospectively maintained pancreatic cyst surveillance databases of three academic institutions. Patients were included if they had a presumed side‐branch IPMN, without worrisome features or high‐risk stigmata at baseline (as defined by the 2012 international Fukuoka guidelines), and were followed ≥ 12 months. The endpoint was development of one or more worrisome features or high‐risk stigmata during follow‐up. We created a multivariable prediction model using Cox‐proportional logistic regression analysis and performed an internal‐external validation.

Results

875 patients were included. After a mean follow‐up of 50 months (range 12‐157), 116 (13%) patients developed worrisome features or high‐risk stigmata. The final model included cyst size (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.09‐1.15), cyst multifocality (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.01‐2.18), ever having smoked (HR 1.40, 95% CI 0.95‐2.04), history of acute pancreatitis (HR 2.07, 95% CI 1.21‐3.55), and history of extrapancreatic malignancy (HR 1.34, 95% CI 0.91‐1.97). After validation, the model had good discriminative ability (C‐statistic 0.72 in the Mayo cohort, 0.71 in the Columbia cohort, 0.64 in the Erasmus cohort).

Conclusion

In presumed side branch IPMNs without worrisome features or high‐risk stigmata at baseline, the Dutch‐American Risk stratification Tool (DART‐1) successfully identifies pancreatic lesions at low risk of developing worrisome features or high‐risk stigmata.
Laparoscopic fundoplication for a child with abdominal intrathecal Baclofen pump
Authors: Okata Yuichi , Bitoh Yuko , Aida Yosuke , Miyauchi Harunori , Nakatani Taichi , Tomioka Yuichiro
Published: August 2019

This is the first case report describing a laparoscopic fundoplication in a child with an intrathecal Baclofen pump which was inserted because of severe spasticity secondary to cerebral palsy. The child had symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux with recurrent episodes of aspiration pneumonia. These were managed with a gastrostomy and conservative therapy with no success. The presence of an intrathecal Baclofen pump makes abdominal surgery challenging and carries the risk of pump infection with its associated sequelae. However, we performed a successful laparoscopic fundoplication with no intraoperative complications and the child was asymptomatic at 18 months follow‐up.
Plant ecology of tropical and subtropical karst ecosystems
Authors: Geekiyanage Nalaka , Goodale Uromi Manage , Cao Kunfang , Kitajima Kaoru
Published: August 2019

Substantial areas of tropical forests, including those within nine tropical biodiversity hotspots, contain karst landscapes that have developed on soluble carbonate rocks. Here, we review how the ecology of karst forest trees is influenced by hydrological, edaphic, and topographic factors that exhibit fine spatial heterogeneity. Comparative analysis of drought tolerance traits including wood density contributes to the assessment of whether karst tree species are more drought‐tolerant compared to non‐karst trees. Although karst ecosystems are generally considered to have low phosphorus availability, foliar nitrogen‐to‐phosphorus ratios exhibit wide variation across karst regions without a clear difference from non‐karst ecosystems. According to the analyses of leaf phenology, stem water storage, and isotopic signatures from xylem sap, water use strategies of karst trees can be classified into five types: (a) soil water dependent, (b) epikarst water dependent (mainly use water stored in fine pores and gaps within the epikarst rock during the dry season), (c) groundwater dependent, (d) fog water dependent, and (e) drought‐deciduous (shed leaves during the dry season). Overall, published data suggest that only a subset of karst tree species are exclusively distributed within karst hilltops where water availability is limited. The diverse resource acquisition and utilization strategies of karst plants across edaphic habitats must be considered when developing effective strategies to conserve and restore biodiversity in karst landscapes, which are under increasing anthropogenic pressure.
Toddlers’ Self‐Recognition and Progression From Goal‐ to Emotion‐Based Helping: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Aitken Jess , Ruffman Ted , Taumoepeau Mele
Published: August 2019

Research has typically used cross‐sectional designs to draw conclusions on the development of helping. This study aimed to examine the development of instrumental and empathic helping behaviors as they emerge, and assess how self‐recognition might moderate this progression. Seventy‐two children (14‐ to 25‐months at T1) were assessed over four monthly sessions. Participants’ individual response patterns showed instrumental helping to be a necessary precursor to empathic helping for 55.77%–67.92% of children who helped during the study. Self‐recognition emerged before empathic but not instrumental helping, yet did not directly influence helping behavior.
Perceived social support among adolescents in Residential Youth Care
Authors: Singstad Marianne Tevik , Wallander Jan Lance , Lydersen Stian , Wichstrøm Lars , Kayed Nanna Sønnichsen
Published: August 2019

Social support may be of particular importance for vulnerable adolescents' development and health and can help them to cope with stressful life events. However, knowledge of perceived social support among adolescents in Residential Youth Care (RYC) is sparse. The present study therefore aimed to investigate perceived social support among adolescents in Norwegian RYC (N = 304, mean age 16.3 years, girls 57.2%), using a short form of the Social Support Questionnaire. The results were compared with adolescents in the general population. The findings revealed that adolescents in RYC reported a lower number of support persons compared with the general population. Both populations reported a decreasing number of support persons as they aged, except for girls in RYC. The adolescents in both populations were satisfied with the support perceived, especially those with the highest number of support persons. However, social support providers differed between the two populations; RYC adolescents reported their extended family, other sources of support, and the institutional staff more often and their parents less. The findings are important for adolescents living in RYC, as knowledge of their social support network could influence the current practices and ensure contact with important support persons, affecting their development and health.
Child Labor and Rainfall Deviation: Panel Data Evidence from Rural Vietnam
Authors: Trinh Trong‐Anh , Posso Alberto , Feeny Simon
Published: August 2019

Rainfall shocks to the agricultural sector can pull children into agricultural work and/or household chores. This is problematic because both forms of child work are potentially precarious. This study examines the relationship between rainfall deviations and child labor for rural households in Vietnam using panel data covering the period 2006–14. We classify child labor into agricultural and nonagricultural activities as well as household chores. We study children's entrance into work and the time intensity of work. Using child‐level fixed effects, we find evidence that above‐average rainfall is associated with children entering agricultural work as well as being pulled into (and spending more time doing) household chores. Our findings suggest that intra‐household experiences of exogenous weather shocks are likely to vary at the individual level, suggesting a need for a more tailored approach to policymaking.
Judicial empowerment expanded: Political determinants of national courts' cooperation with the CJEU
Authors: Mayoral Juan A.
Published: August 2019

Scholars in EU studies have developed diverse justifications for explaining why national judges cooperate with the Court of Justice of the European Union. In this regard, judicial empowerment theories have stressed the strategic importance of cooperation for empowering national courts vis‐à‐vis high courts and political actors. Nevertheless, these explanations have been restricted to the use of preliminary references by lower courts. This contribution expands the explanatory power of these approaches by exploring other potential scenarios and instruments that national judges can use to challenge the position of their governments and judicial superiors, for example, by emphasising the importance of CJEU precedent for their strategic behaviour. By offering new data collected from case‐law and surveys, this article offers a more systematic assessment of the relevance of cooperation for national judges to reinforce their authority against other institutions. The findings call for a revision of the traditional understanding of judicial empowerment theories.
Behaviour of upstream migrating adult salmon (Salmo salar L.) in the tailrace channels of hydropeaking hydropower plants
Authors: Vehanen Teppo , Louhi Pauliina , Huusko Ari , Mäki‐Petäys Aki , van der Meer Olli , Orell Panu , Huusko Riina , Jaukkuri Mikko , Sutela Tapio
Published: August 2019

In hydropeaking rivers, flow regulation typically follows demands in electricity consumption. One hundred and twenty one adult salmon were tagged with radio transmitters to study their spawning run migration patterns in hydropeaking conditions. The fish were released in small groups into the rivers Kemijoki and Iijoki, in Finland. Typically, salmon made subsequent up‐ and downstream movements ascending upstream to the tailrace of the power station and then descending again downstream to lower water velocities. The rate of these migration attempts was higher in mid‐summer and at relatively high flows. On an hourly basis, the pattern of migration attempts followed a trend of increasing attempts at dawn and higher discharges and a decreasing trend towards dusk and low flows. It was concluded that day length and discharge were the most important environmental factors, while temperature had less effect on the pattern of migration attempts.
The participatory turn in local policies: A product of the market
Authors: Mazeaud Alice , Nonjon Magali
Published: August 2019

This article examines the relationship between local participatory policies and their market in France. The study stems from long‐term field research drawing on a variety of materials: qualitative interviews with citizen participation professionals (consultants or civil servants), questionnaires, and an analysis of public procurement. This study depicts the way both the industry and the policies of citizen participation are structured in France. It also explores how French participatory policies are coproduced through mechanisms of competition–collusion between clients (mainly local public authorities) and providers (consultants). Finally, the study questions the effects of this market on local policies, showing that the market cannot be interpreted as an unequivocal sign of a decline in actors along with political stakes in public policies.
Sexual abuse and violence against people with intellectual disability and physical impairments: Characteristics of police‐investigated cases in a Norwegian national sample
Authors: Åker Tone H. , Johnson Miriam S.
Published: August 2019

Background

Although people with disabilities are more exposed to violence and sexual abuse, research on the judicial process in such cases is still lacking. This study uses crime statistics to describe this phenomenon.

Method

A national sample from the National Criminal Investigation Service in Norway was analysed for the period October 2015 to December 2017.

Results

The total number of alleged victims was 175, across 74 cases. The majority of the victims (71.2%) were females, subjected to a sexual offence. Overall, 30% of all cases led to a penal sanction.

Conclusion

The study shows a preponderance of sexual offences against females with disabilities and few cases comprise violence. Relatively, few cases involve violations against children with disabilities. This might suggest an underreporting of such criminal acts. The knowledge of potential reasons why violent crime and offences against children with disabilities are absent from the data registry needs to be strengthened.
Aspirin inhibits proliferation and promotes differentiation of neuroblastoma cells via p21Waf1 protein up‐regulation and Rb1 pathway modulation
Authors: Pozzoli Giacomo , Petrucci Giovanna , Navarra Pierluigi , Marei Hany E. , Cenciarelli Carlo
Published: August 2019

Several clinical and experimental studies have demonstrated that regular use of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA) correlates with a reduced risk of cancer and that the drug exerts direct anti‐tumour effects. We have previously reported that ASA inhibits proliferation of human glioblastoma multiforme‐derived cancer stem cells. In the present study, we analysed the effects of ASA on nervous system‐derived cancer cells, using the SK‐N‐SH (N) human neuroblastoma cell line as an experimental model. ASA treatment of SK‐N‐SH (N) dramatically reduced cell proliferation and motility, and induced neuronal‐like differentiation, indicated by the appearance of the neuronal differentiation marker tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) after 5 days. ASA did not affect cell viability, but caused a time‐dependent accumulation of cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle, with a concomitant decrease in the percentage of cells in the G2 phase. These effects appear to be mediated by a COX‐independent mechanism involving an increase in p21Waf1 and underphosphorylated retinoblastoma (hypo‐pRb1) protein levels. These findings may support a potential role of ASA as adjunctive therapeutic agent in the clinical management of neuroblastoma.
Cross‐decades stability of an avian hybrid zone
Authors: Wang Silu , Rohwer Sievert , Delmore Kira , Irwin Darren E.
Published: August 2019

Hybrid zones are particularly valuable for understanding the evolution of partial reproductive isolation between differentiated populations. An increasing number of hybrid zones have been inferred to move over time, but in most such cases zone movement has not been tested with long‐term genomic data. The hybrid zone between Townsend's Warblers (Setophaga townsendi) and Hermit Warblers (S. occidentalis) in the Washington Cascades was previously inferred to be moving from northern S. townsendi southwards towards S. occidentalis, based on plumage and behavioural patterns as well as a 2000‐km genetic wake of hermit mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in coastal Townsend's Warblers. We directly tested whether hybrid zone position has changed over 2–3 decades by tracking plumage, mtDNA and nuclear genomic variation across the hybrid zone over two sampling periods (1987–94 and 2015–16). Surprisingly, there was no significant movement in genomic or plumage cline centres between the two time periods. Plumage cline widths were narrower than expected by neutral diffusion, consistent with a ‘tension zone’ model, in which selection against hybrids is balanced by movement of parental forms into the zone. Our results indicate that this hybrid zone is either stable in its location or moving at a rate that is not detectable over 2–3 decades. Despite considerable gene flow, the stable clines in multiple phenotypic and genotypic characters over decades suggest evolutionary stability of this young pair of sister species, allowing divergence to continue. We propose a novel biogeographic scenario to explain these patterns: rather than the hybrid zone having moved thousands of kilometres to its current position, inland Townsend's met coastal Hermit Warbler populations along a broad front of the British Columbia and Alaska coast and hybridization led to replacement of the Hermit Warbler plumage with Townsend's Warbler plumage patterns along this coastline. Hence, hybrid zones along British Columbia and Alaska moved only a short distance from the inland to the coast, whereas the Hermit Warbler phenotype appears stable in Washington and further south. This case provides an example of the complex biogeographic processes that have led to the distribution of current phenotypes within and among closely related species.
Immunotherapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma: A systematic review
Authors: Peinemann Frank , Unverzagt Susanne , Hadjinicolaou Andreas V , Moldenhauer Ines
Published: August 2019

Background

Various approaches have been developed for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (MRCC). The objective was to assess the efficacy of immunotherapeutic approaches.

Methods

We included participants diagnosed with all types of histologically confirmed MRCC, the test intervention was immunotherapy alone or combined with other immunotherapy or targeted therapies, and the study design was restricted to randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Primary outcomes were overall survival, adverse events, and health‐related quality of life. We conducted the last search in March 31, 2018.

Results

We included nine RCTs, and we established seven different treatment comparisons according to the type of data. Two RCTs favored nivolumab as monotherapy or combined with ipilimumab on account of all primary outcomes. The efficacy data of all other comparisons were either indifferent or favored the control group.

Conclusion

The immune checkpoint inhibitors nivolumab as monotherapy or combined with ipilimumab appears to be the only new immunotherapy that may improve overall survival in participants with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Interferon‐α alone is unfavorable to targeted therapies with respect to overall survival and adverse events.
Age and growth of three endemic threatened guitarfishes Pseudobatos horkelii, P. percellens and Zapteryx brevirostris in the western South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Caltabellotta Fabio P. , Siders Zachary A. , Murie Debra J. , Motta Fabio S. , Cailliet Gregor M. , Gadig Otto B. F.
Published: August 2019

The age and growth of three endemic threatened guitarfish species were analysed using vertebrae of Pseudobatos horkelii, P. percellens and Zapteryx brevirostris. Edge and marginal‐increment analyses were used to evaluate the periodicity of the formation of the band‐pairs, suggesting deposition of one band‐pair per year, from late winter to late spring. The von Bertalanffy growth model was used to describe the growth of these species with the following parameters, for pooled sexes: P. horkelii
L∞ = 126.93,
k = 0.19 and
t0 = −1.51; P. percellens
L∞ = 109.31,
k = 0.16 and
t0 = −1.78; Z. brevirostris
L∞ = 60.37,
k = 0.24 and
t0 = −1.42. Our results are essential to understanding the resilience and vulnerability of these species to harvest, which can contribute to management and conservation actions of these species.
Behavioural crypsis in a South African galaxiid fish induced by predatory and non‐predatory heterospecifics
Authors: Magellan Kit
Published: August 2019

This study investigated recognition of, and behavioural responses to, predatory and non‐predatory heterospecifics by a small cryptically coloured fish species, Galaxias ‘nebula’. Nebula recognised and differentiated between predatory and non‐predatory heterospecifics and altered its behaviour facultatively. With both predatory and non‐predatory fishes, the proportion of time spent motionless increased, whereas refugia use was affected only by predators and neither heterospecific affected the time spent active. Although nebula appeared to face no conflict, in that their responses to predatory and non‐predatory heterospecifics varied in the same direction and differed only in intensity, the presence of both heterospecifics together induced responses midway between those for each heterospecific separately. Non‐predatory heterospecifics thus modified nebula's responses towards predators, potentially making time available for other essential activities such as foraging. This modified predator response may aid its survival in an increasingly threatened habitat.
Swallowing Disorders in the Older Population
Authors: Christmas Colleen , Rogus‐Pulia Nicole
Published: August 2019

Swallowing problems, or dysphagia, are common as people age, and are associated with significant negative outcomes, including weight loss, pneumonia, dehydration, shortened life expectancy, reduced quality of life, and increased caregiver burden. In this article, we will discuss the complex process of swallowing in normal circumstances and with healthy aging, then review etiologies that contribute to dysphagia. We will discuss approaches to evaluating and treating dysphagia, providing relevant data where they are available. We highlight the desperate need for high‐quality research to guide best practices in treating dysphagia in older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2643–2649, 2019
Nice to know: impact of NICE guidelines on ketogenic diet services nationwide
Authors: Whiteley V. J. , Martin‐McGill K. J. , Carroll J. H. , Taylor H. , Schoeler N. E. ,   The Ketogenic Dietitians Research Network (KDRN)
Published: August 2019

Background

In 2012, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Clinical Guidelines for Epilepsies: Diagnosis and Management (CG137) included, for the first time, ketogenic diets (KDs) as a treatment option for drug‐resistant paediatric epilepsy. The recommendation was made to refer children and young people with epilepsy whose seizures have not responded to appropriate anti‐epileptic drugs to a tertiary paediatric epilepsy specialist for consideration of the use of KDs. We aimed to assess the impact of this change in guidance on the numbers of ketogenic centres and patients following KDs for epilepsy in the UK and Ireland.

Methods

An online survey was circulated to ketogenic dietitians from the UK and Ireland. The results were compared with similar surveys published in 2000 and 2010.

Results

The number of centres offering KDs for treatment of epilepsy has risen from 22 in 2000, to 28 in 2010, and to 39 in 2017 (77% overall increase). Seven of these centres accept adult referrals, in comparison to only two centres in 2010. Patient numbers have increased from 101 in 2000 to 754 in 2017. In total, 267 patients are waiting to commence KD at 31 centres.

Conclusions

Over the last 7 years, the number of patients treated with a KD for epilepsy in the UK and Ireland has increased by 647%, with a 77% increase in the number of centres offering KDs. Despite this rapid growth, there is ongoing demand for patients to be considered for dietary therapy, highlighting the need for continued expansion of KD services nationally.
Climate change impacts on asphalt road pavement construction and maintenance: An economic life cycle assessment of adaptation measures in the State of Virginia, United States
Authors: Qiao Yaning , Santos Joao , Stoner Anne M.K. , Flinstch Gerardo
Published: August 2019

Pavement design and management practices must be adapted in response to future climate change. While many studies have attempted to identify different methods to adapt pavements to future climate conditions, the potential economic impacts of the adaptations still remain largely unquantified. This study presents the results of a comprehensive life‐cycle cost analysis (LCCA) aimed at quantifying the potential economic impacts of a climate adaptation method, in which an upgraded asphalt binder (Performance Grade PG 76‐22) is used in the construction and maintenance of flexible pavement sections in lieu of the original binder (PG 70‐22) for improved resistance against high temperatures. For each of three major Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) districts with different climates, three case studies consisting of typical interstate, primary, and secondary pavement sections were considered. The LCCA accounted for the costs incurred during the mixture's production, maintenance, and use phases of the pavement life cycle by explicitly considering future climate projections, pavement life‐cycle performance, maintenance effects, and work zone user delays. The study concludes that pavements using the upgraded binder not only perform better over time but are also economically advantageous compared to those with the original binder under the conditions of the anticipated future climate conditions (2020–2039).
Predictive factors for recovery of voiding function after transurethral prostate surgery in men with small prostate volume and very low detrusor contractility
Authors: Wu Shu‐Yu , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Detrusor underactivity (DU) is a common but poorly understood clinical problem. The diagnosis and treatment are difficult and full of uncertainties. There are many overlaps between DU and bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in men. Prostatic surgery might improve voiding efficiency (VE). This study aims to investigate effectiveness and predictors of voiding function recovery after prostate surgery in patients with DU.

Methods

Male patients with DU and small total prostate volume (TPV, <40 mL) who had undergone transurethral prostate surgery were retrospectively reviewed over the past two decades. Video‐urodynamic studies were performed before and after the operation. The urodynamic parameters were recorded, and change of VE was used to determine treatment outcome. A postoperative VE of ≥50% was considered successful.

Results

A total of 48 patients were included, with a mean age of 74.4 ± 10.0 years. The mean follow‐up period was 24.9 ± 30.5 months. At the most recent follow‐up, 29 (60.4%) patients had positive results. Among them, 21 (72.4%) patients recovered within 1 month, and only one recovered later than 6 months after the operation. After surgery, the maximum flow rate, voided volume, postvoid residual urine, and VE all showed improvement. Patients with successful outcome had a higher baseline detrusor pressure (p = .029) and greater maximum flow rate (p = .034) than the nonrecovery group. The age and other parameters were not significantly different between recovery and nonrecovery group.

Conclusions

Patients with DU and small TPV might also benefit from prostatic surgery if they had a higher detrusor pressure and maximum flow rate at baseline.
Introduced cats Felis catus eating a continental fauna: inventory and traits of Australian mammal species killed
Authors: Woolley Leigh‐Ann , Geyle Hayley M. , Murphy Brett P. , Legge Sarah M. , Palmer Russell , Dickman Christopher R. , Augusteyn John , Comer Sarah , Doherty Tim S. , Eager Charlie , Edwards Glenn , Harley Dan K.P. , Leiper Ian , McDonald Peter J. , McGregor Hugh W. , Moseby Katherine E. , Myers Cecilia , Read John L. , Riley Joanna , Stokeld Danielle , Turpin Jeff M. , Woinarski John C.Z.
Published: August 2019

Mammals comprise the bulk of the diet of free‐ranging domestic cats Felis catus (defined as including outdoor pet cats, strays, and feral cats) in most parts of their global range. In Australia, predation by introduced feral cats has been implicated in the extinction of many mammal species, and in the ongoing decline of many extant species.

Here, we collate a wide range of records of predation by cats (including feral and pet cats) on Australian mammals and model traits of extant, terrestrial, native mammal species associated with the relative likelihood of cat predation. We explicitly seek to overcome biases in such a continental‐scale compilation by excluding possible carrion records for larger species and accounting for differences in the distribution and abundance of potential prey species, as well as study effort, throughout each species’ range.

For non‐volant species, the relative likelihood of predation by cats was greatest for species in an intermediate weight range (peaking at ca. 400 g), in lower rainfall areas and not dwelling in rocky habitats. Previous studies have shown the greatest rates of decline and extinction in Australian mammals to be associated with these traits. As such, we provide the first continental‐scale link between mammal decline and cat predation through quantitative analysis.

Our compilation of cat predation records for most extant, terrestrial, native mammal species (151 species, or 52% of the Australian species’ complement) is substantially greater than previously reported (88 species) and includes 50 species listed as threatened by the IUCN or under Australian legislation (57% of Australia's 87 threatened terrestrial mammal species). We identify the Australian mammal species most likely to be threatened by predation by cats (mulgaras Dasycercus spp., kowari Dasyuroides byrnei, many smaller dasyurids and medium‐sized to large rodents, among others) and hence most likely to benefit from enhanced mitigation of cat impacts, such as translocations to predator‐free islands, the establishment of predator‐proof fenced exclosures, and broad‐scale cat poison baiting.
Nonrandom associations of maternally transmitted symbionts in insects: The roles of drift versus biased cotransmission and selection
Authors: Mathé‐Hubert Hugo , Kaech Heidi , Hertaeg Corinne , Jaenike John , Vorburger Christoph
Published: August 2019

Virtually all higher organisms form holobionts with associated microbiota. To understand the biology of holobionts we need to know how species assemble and interact. Controlled experiments are suited to study interactions between particular symbionts, but they only accommodate a tiny portion of the diversity within each species. Alternatively, interactions can be inferred by testing if associations among symbionts in the field are more or less frequent than expected under random assortment. However, random assortment may not be a valid null hypothesis for maternally transmitted symbionts since drift alone can result in associations. Here, we analyse a European field survey of endosymbionts in pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum), confirming that symbiont associations are pervasive. To interpret them, we develop a model simulating the effect of drift on symbiont associations. We show that drift induces apparently nonrandom assortment, even though horizontal transmissions and maternal transmission failures tend to randomise symbiont associations. We also use this model in the approximate Bayesian computation framework to revisit the association between Spiroplasma and Wolbachia in Drosophila neotestacea. New field data reported here reveal that this association has disappeared in the investigated location, yet a significant interaction between Spiroplasma and Wolbachia can still be inferred. Our study confirms that negative and positive associations are pervasive and often induced by symbiont‐symbiont interactions. Nevertheless, some associations are also likely to be driven by drift. This possibility needs to be considered when performing such analyses, and our model is helpful for this purpose.
Post‐Keynesian endogenous money theory: Horizontalists, structuralists and the paradox of illiquidity
Authors: Deleidi Matteo
Published: August 2019

The paper aims to provide a theoretical advancement in the post‐Keynesian debate between horizontalists and structuralists by offering an additional theoretical support to the horizontalist view. Through the newly introduced notion of paradox of illiquidity, a critique to the endogenous money–liquidity preference model is developed, by focusing on the relationship between the volume of loans and the mark‐up. The paradox of illiquidity aims to deny: (a) the idea of a banking sector achieving illiquid position during its lending activities and, consequently, (b) the view of an upward sloping credit supply curve.
Plasma uric acid and renal haemodynamics in type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Suijk Danii LS , Smits Mark M , Muskiet Marcel HA , Tonneijck Lennart , Kramer Mark HH , Joles Jaap A , van Raalte Daniël H
Published: August 2019

Aim

Increased plasma uric acid (PUA) concentrations are associated with chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. The mechanisms involved remain unclear. We investigated the relation between PUA and (intra)renal haemodynamics in T2D patients without overt kidney disease.

Methods

Eighty‐eight white men and women with T2D were included (age 64 (58–68) years; body mass index 30.9 (28.3–33.6) kg/m2; glycated haemoglobin 7.1 (6.8–7.6)%). Plasma UA and fractional excretion of UA were measured, while glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) were assessed by inulin and PAH‐clearance techniques, respectively. Effective renal vascular resistance was calculated (ERVR). Renal afferent and efferent arteriolar resistances and glomerular hydrostatic pressure were estimated. Relationships between PUA and fractional excretion of UA and (intra)renal haemodynamic parameters were evaluated by multivariable linear regression analyses.

Results

Plasma UA concentrations were at the higher end of the normal range in most participants: 342 ± 68 μmol/L or 5.7 ± 1.1 mg/dL (mean ± SD). In multivariable analyses, PUA concentrations were negatively associated with GFR (r = −0.471; P = 0.001), ERPF (r = −0.436; P = 0.003) and glomerular hydrostatic pressure (r = −0.427; P = 0.003). In contrast, PUA concentrations had a positive correlation with ERVR (r = 0.474; P = 0.001), but not with efferent vascular resistance. Fractional excretion of UA was not related to renal haemodynamics.

Conclusion

Plasma UA was negatively associated to GFR, ERPF but positively related to ERVR in T2D patients without overt renal impairment. Plasma UA‐related increase in ERVR may be related to increased arterial afferent tone, which may put the kidney at risk for renal damage through ischaemia.
Molecular and morphological evaluation of Meconopsis georgei and M. castanea in southwest China
Authors: Wei Lai , Zhou Yu , Liu Quan‐Ru
Published: August 2019

The taxonomic distinction between Meconopsis georgei G. Taylor and M. castanea H. Ohba, T. Yoshida & H. Sun has been disputed in recent times. Due to its limited distribution area, M. georgei had not been recollected since its publication and given the lack of observation of living plants and specimens, M. castanea was treated as a form of M. georgei. However, After field investigations and careful examination of type specimens, we provide an expanded description of M. georgei and suggest that M. castanea should be restored as an independent species. A molecular phylogenetic analysis also supports this conclusion.
Rationing of nursing care, a deviation from holistic nursing: A systematic review
Authors: Mandal Lata , Seethalakshmi Avudaiappan , Rajendrababu Anitha
Published: August 2019

Background

Rationing of care in nursing is nurses' inability to complete all care activities for patients because of scarcity in time and resource. Literature suggests that rationing of care is closely related to patient safety and quality of care. The phenomena have been defined and studied from varied perspectives and contexts. A systematic review of studies related to the concept was aimed at identifying and synthesizing the finding.

Methods

The review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis guidelines, and literature searches were conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Web of Science and EMBASE databases. Fifty‐seven quantitative studies were included in the review.

Findings

The review observed that nursing activities addressing the emotional, educational, mobility and hygiene needs of the patients were commonly rationed. Antecedents of rationing included resource inadequacy and organizational work environment. Rationing influenced patient satisfaction, mortality and a number of adverse events and was associated with decreased job satisfaction, increased intention to leave and high turnover among nurses.

Discussions

This review concludes that rationing in nursing is ubiquitous, embedded in the work environment and poses a threat to the professional health and philosophical base of nursing in addition to having serious implications on patients' safety. Strategies to reframe and reconsider organizational traits, and open discussion with other healthcare stakeholders can reduce rationing of nursing care. The review suggests future researchers adopt different methodological layout to study rationing.
Influence of pain anticipation on brain activity and pain perception in Gulf War Veterans with chronic musculoskeletal pain
Authors: Lindheimer Jacob B. , Stegner Aaron J. , Ellingson‐Sayen Laura D. , Van Riper Stephanie M. , Dougherty Ryan J. , Falvo Michael J. , Cook Dane B.
Published: August 2019

Anticipation of a painful experience can influence brain activity and increase sensitivity to experimental somatosensory stimuli in healthy adults, but this response is poorly understood among individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP). Studies of brain and perceptual responses to somatosensory stimuli are used to make inferences about central nervous system dysfunction as a potential mechanism of symptoms. As such, we sought to (a) determine the influence of pain anticipation on pain‐relevant brain regions and pain perception, and (b) characterize potential differences in these responses between Gulf War Veterans with CMP and matched healthy control (CO) Veterans. CMP (N = 30) and CO Veterans (N = 31) were randomized to conditions designed to generate expectations that either painful (pain) or nonpainful (no pain) stimuli would be administered. Brain responses to five nonpainful thermal stimuli were measured during fMRI, and each stimulus was rated for pain intensity and unpleasantness. In the pain condition, an incremental linear decrease in activity across stimuli was observed in the posterior cingulate cortex, cingulate cortex, and middle temporal gyrus. Further, in the pain condition, differential responses were observed between CMP and CO Veterans in the middle temporal gyrus. These findings indicate that brain responses to nonpainful thermal stimuli in Veterans with CMP are sensitive to pain anticipation, and we recommend accounting for the influence of pain anticipation in future investigations of central nervous system dysfunction in CMP.