bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical analysis of MCC-IMS data for two group comparisons—an exemplary study on two devices
Authors: Horsch S , Baumbach J I , Rahnenführer J
Published: May 2019

The Multi-capillary-column-Ion-mobility-spectrometry (MCC-IMS) technology for measuring breath gas can be used for distinguishing between healthy and diseased subjects or between different types of diseases. The statistical methods for classifying the corresponding breath samples typically neglects potential confounding clinical and technical variables, reducing both accuracy and generalizability of the results. Especially measuring samples on different technical devices can heavily influence the results. We conducted a controlled breath gas study including 49 healthy volunteers to evaluate the effect of the variables sex, smoking habits and technical device. Every person was measured twice, once before and once after consuming a glass of orange juice. The two measurements were obtained on two different devices. The evaluation of the MCC-IMS data regarding metabolite detection was performed once using the software VisualNow, which requires manual interaction, and once using the fully automated algorithm SGLTR-DBSCAN. We present statistical solutions, peak alignment and scaling, to adjust for the different devices. For the other potential confounders sex and smoking, in our study no significant influence was identified.
Comparison of electrochemical hydrogen oxidation on different metal/ceramic model anodes and mechanistic implications
Authors: Doppler M C , Fleig J , Bram M , Opitz A K
Published: May 2019

Micro-patterned metal/ceramic model thin film electrodes were used to investigate the hydrogen oxidation mechanism on various metal/ion conductor combinations such as Ni/yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), Pt/YSZ, Ni/scandia-stabilized zirconia, Ni/titania/YSZ. For all electrode types besides those with a continuous titania interlayer a triple phase boundary (TPB) and an area pathway could be separated. Moreover, activation energies as well as hydrogen and water reaction orders were determined for both pathways and compared with previously published data on Ni/YSZ. It was found that when varying the electronically conducting phases on YSZ the activation energy of the TPB path remains virtually the same. However, changing the ion conductor significantly influenced the activation energy, indicating a rate-limiting step on the electrolyte. However, the stark difference in water reaction order of Ni/YSZ and Pt/YSZ electrodes shows that the metal phase is also actively participating in the reaction chain. It is suggested that the electrolyte surface is responsible for the rate-limiting electrochemical redox reaction while the metal interacts with the gas phase molecules and thus supplies the reactants. For samples with a thin mixed conducting titania layer on YSZ, the electrochemical behavior drastically changed, which can be explained by an extension of the reaction zone away from the TPB.
What is the nature of petals in Caryophyllaceae? Developmental evidence clarifies their evolutionary origin
Authors: Wei Lai , Craene Louis Ronse De
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims

Floral development is a powerful tool to infer homologies of floral organs and to understand floral evolution. Caryophyllaceae is a major family of core Caryophyllales that possesses petal-like structures (petaloids) with a great diversity in shape. The main purpose of this study is to determine the nature of the second whorl of floral organs in Caryophyllaceae. Mainstream views consider ancestors of Caryophyllaceae as apetalous and interpret petals as centrifugally derived staminodial appendages. This hypothesis, based on morphological similarities of petals with stamens and previous ancestral state reconstruction, is tested here.

Methods

A floral developmental investigation of five species was carried out using scanning electron microscopy, combined with character optimization of the presence or absence of second-whorl petaloids.

Key Results

The calyx is always well developed with a quincuncial aestivation. Petaloids either develop by fractionation of common stamen–petal primordia, as in Spergularia, or petaloid development is independent and precedes alternisepalous stamens in Saponaria and Sagina. In Sagina the petaloid whorl is always fully formed but alternisepalous stamens are often reduced or missing. Petaloids are absent in Gymnocarpos and the investigated Cerastium.

Conclusions

Developmental evidence and character mapping reject the hypothesis that petaloids represent a staminodial whorl and suggest that they are independent structures equivalent to second-whorl petals of most Pentapetalae and present in the basal Caryophyllaceae. Heterochronic shifts, including a delay in petal development and acceleration of androecial growth, are responsible for the amalgamation of petals with the androecium as common stamen–petal primordia and their appearance as stamen-derived appendages. Selective pollinator pressure in Caryophyllaceae led to variable petal expansion or reduction and loss. This trend corresponds largely with the general tendency in the core Caryophyllales for petal loss and perianth reorganization.
Seed local adaptation and seedling plasticity account for Gleditsia triacanthos tree invasion across biomes
Authors: Tognetti Pedro M , Mazia Noemí , Ibáñez Gonzalo
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims

Phenotypic plasticity and local adaption can contribute to the success of invasive species. While the former is an environmentally induced trait, the latter involves a selection process to filter the best genotype for a location. We examined the evidence for phenotypic plasticity and local adaptation for seed and seedling traits of the invasive tree Gleditsia triacanthos, with three origins distributed along an approx. 10° latitude gradient across three biomes.

Methods

In sub-tropical forests, dry woodlands and secondary temperate grasslands in Argentina, we harvested seeds from clusters of neighbouring trees (i.e. families) distributed within 15–20 km in each origin (biome). We manipulated the environmental conditions relevant to each biome, assuming that propagule availability did not represent an ecological barrier. In growth chambers, we evaluated seed imbibition and seed germination under different light, temperature and water potential. In a 2 year common garden, we evaluated the impact of resident vegetation removal on seedling survival and growth.

Key Results

Mean time to complete seed imbibition differed among origins; seeds from temperate grasslands reached full imbibition before seeds from dry woodlands and sub-tropical forests. Germination was always >70 %, but was differentially affected by water potential, and light quantity (dark–light) and quality (red–far red) among origins, suggesting local adaptation. In the common garden, vegetation removal rather than origin negatively affected seedling survival and enhanced seedling growth. Vegetation removal increased basal diameter, leaves per plant and spine number, and reduced the height:basal diameter ratio.

Conclusions

We conclude that local adaptation in seed germination traits and plastic changes in seedling allometry (e.g. height:diameter) may allow this tree to respond over the short and long term to changes in environmental conditions, and to contribute to shape G. triacanthos as a successful woody invader. Overall, our study revealed how local adaptation and plasticity can explain different aspects of tree invasion capacity across biomes.
Live imaging of intracellular pH in planarians using the ratiometric fluorescent dye SNARF-5F-AM
Authors: Beane Wendy Scott , Adams Dany Spencer , Morokuma Junji , Levin Michael
Published: May 2019

Physiological parameters such as resting potential and pH are increasingly recognized as important regulators of cell activity and tissue-level events in regeneration, development, and cancer. The availability of fluorescent reporter dyes has greatly increased the ability to track these properties in vivo. The planarian flatworm is an important and highly tractable model system for regeneration, stem cell biology, and neuroscience; however, no protocols have been published for investigating pH in this system. Here, we report a simple and effective protocol for imaging pH gradients in living planaria suitable for intact and regenerating flatworms.
“The Mittens of Disapproval Are On”: John Oliver’s Last Week Tonight as Neoliberal Critique
Authors: Michaud Wild Nickie
Published: May 2019

HBO’s Last Week Tonight has frequently featured host John Oliver’s critiques of global neoliberalism. His pronouncements are often not just the taking of an ideological position, but a moral one which borders on the theological, conceptualizing the entrenchment of inequality as a normative evil. It is a form of activism where he uses his platform to exhort his audience to fight back against large, impersonal forces that he portrays as taking advantage of them. This article analyzes the program’s mentions of the institutional effects of these policies on individuals and the economy and how mainstream media sources have either amplified or ignored his claims. “Serious” journalism is more likely to cover his stories that have simple, dramatic villains rather than complex causes.
Corticosteroids and Regional Variations in Thickness of the Human Cerebral Cortex across the Lifespan
Authors: Parker Nadine , Vidal-Pineiro Didac , French Leon , Shin Jean , Adams Hieab H H , Brodaty Henry , Cox Simon R , Deary Ian J , Fjell Anders M , Frenzel Stefan , Grabe Hans , Hosten Norbert , Ikram Mohammad Arfan , Jiang Jiyang , Knol Maria J , Mazoyer Bernard , Mishra Aniket , Sachdev Perminder S , Salum Giovanni , Satizabal Claudia L , Schmidt Helena , Schmidt Reinhold , Seshadri Sudha , Schumann Gunter , Völzke Henry , Walhovd Kristine B , Wen Wei , Wittfeld Katharina , Yang Qiong , Debette Stephanie , Pausova Zdenka , Paus Tomáš
Published: May 2019

Exposures to life stressors accumulate across the lifespan, with possible impact on brain health. Little is known, however, about the mechanisms mediating age-related changes in brain structure. We use a lifespan sample of participants (n = 21 251; 4–97 years) to investigate the relationship between the thickness of cerebral cortex and the expression of the glucocorticoid- and the mineralocorticoid-receptor genes (NR3C1 and NR3C2, respectively), obtained from the Allen Human Brain Atlas. In all participants, cortical thickness correlated negatively with the expression of both NR3C1 and NR3C2 across 34 cortical regions. The magnitude of this correlation varied across the lifespan. From childhood through early adulthood, the profile similarity (between NR3C1/NR3C2 expression and thickness) increased with age. Conversely, both profile similarities decreased with age in late life. These variations do not reflect age-related changes in NR3C1 and NR3C2 expression, as observed in 5 databases of gene expression in the human cerebral cortex (502 donors). Based on the co-expression of NR3C1 (and NR3C2) with genes specific to neural cell types, we determine the potential involvement of microglia, astrocytes, and CA1 pyramidal cells in mediating the relationship between corticosteroid exposure and cortical thickness. Therefore, corticosteroids may influence brain structure to a variable degree throughout life.
Postoperative Morbidity After Iterative Ileocolonic Resection for Crohn’s Disease: Should we be Worried? A Prospective Multicentric Cohort Study of the GETAID Chirurgie
Authors: Abdalla Solafah , Brouquet Antoine , Maggiori Léon , Zerbib Philippe , Denost Quentin , Germain Adeline , Cotte Eddy , Beyer-Berjot Laura , Munoz-Bongrand Nicolas , Desfourneaux Véronique , Rahili Amine , Duffas Jean-Pierre , Pautrat Karine , Denet Christine , Bridoux Valérie , Meurette Guillaume , Faucheron Jean-Luc , Loriau Jérome , Guillon Françoise , Vicaut Eric , Benoist Stéphane , Panis Yves , Lefevre Jérémie H ,   GETAID Chirurgie Group
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims

To compare perioperative characteristics and outcomes between primary ileocolonic resection [PICR] and iterative ileocolic resection [IICR] for Crohn’s disease [CD].

Methods

From 2013 to 2015, 567 patients undergoing ileocolonic resection were prospectively included in 19 centres of the GETAID chirurgie group. Perioperative characteristics and postoperative results of both groups [431 PICR, 136 IICR] were compared. Uni- and multivariate analyses of the risk factors of overall 30-day postoperative morbidity was carried out in the IICR group.

Results

IICR patients were less likely to be malnourished [27.2% vs 39.9%, p = 0.007], and had more stricturing forms [69.1% vs 54.3%, p = 0.002] and less perforating disease [19.9% vs 39.2%, p < 0.001]. Laparoscopy was less commonly used in IICR [45.6% vs 84.5%, p < 0.01] and was associated with increased conversion rates [27.4% vs 14.6%, p = 0.012]. Overall postoperative morbidity was 36.8% in the IICR group and 26.7% in the PICR group [p = 0.024]. There was no significant difference between IICR and PICR regarding septic intra-abdominal complications, anastomotic leakage [8.8% vs 8.4%] or temporary stoma requirement. IICR patients were more likely to present with non-infectious complications and ileus [11.8% vs 3.7%, p < 0.001]. Uni- and multivariate analyses did not identify specific risk factors of overall postoperative morbidity in the IICR group.

Conclusions

Surgery for recurrent CD is associated with a slight increase of non-infectious morbidity [postoperative ileus] that mainly reflects the technical difficulties of these procedures. However, IICR remains a safe therapeutic option in patients with recurrent CD because severe morbidity including anastomotic complications is similar to patients undergoing primary resection.

Podcast

This article has an associated podcast which can be accessed at https://academic.oup.com/ecco-jcc/pages/podcast
Chemical Composition of the Rectal Gland and Volatiles Released by Female Queensland Fruit Fly, Bactrocera tryoni (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: El-Sayed Ashraf M , Venkatesham Uppala , Unelius C Rikard , Sporle Andrew , Pérez Jeanneth , Taylor Phillip W , Suckling David M
Published: May 2019

The composition of the rectal gland secretion and volatiles emitted by female Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni was investigated. Esters were found to be the main compounds in the gland extracts and headspace, while amides were the minor compounds in the gland extracts and headspace. Ethyl dodecanoate, ethyl tetradecanoate, ethyl (Z9)-hexadecenoate and ethyl palmitate were the main esters in the gland extracts, while ethyl dodecanoate and ethyl tetradecanoate were the main esters in the headspace. Four amides (N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide), N-(2-methylbutyl)propanamide, N-(3-methylbutyl)propanamide, and N-(3-methylbutyl)-2-methylpropanamide were found in the gland extracts and the headspace. Among the amides, N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide and N-(3-methylbutyl)propanamide were the main amides in the gland extracts and the headspace. Traces of three spiroacetals were found both in the gland extracts and in the headspace. (E,E)-2,8-Dimethyl-1,7-dioxaspiro[5.5]undecane, (E,E)-2-ethyl-8-methyl-1,7-dioxaspiro[5.5]undecane, (E,E)-2-propyl-8-methyl-1,7-dioxaspiro[5.5]undecane. All compounds found in the headspace were present in the extract of the rectal gland suggesting that the rectal gland is the main source of the headspace volatiles, whose function remains to be elucidated. This is the first comprehensive chemical analysis of the rectal gland secretions and volatiles of female B. tryoni, and further laboratory and field bioassays are required to determine the function of compounds identified in this study. Discovery of the same amides previously identified in the male rectal gland in the female rectal gland raises questions about the pheromonal role previously suggested for these compounds.
Cost and survival of video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy versus open lobectomy in lung cancer patients: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Marijic Pavo , Walter Julia , Schneider Christian , Schwarzkopf Larissa
Published: May 2019

OBJECTIVES

A video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is an accepted alternative to open thoracotomy (OT) in lung cancer patients undergoing lobectomy, but evidence of the benefits of VATS remains inconsistent. The aim of this study was to compare VATS and OT regarding survival, costs and length of hospital stay (LOS).

METHODS

We identified lung cancer patients (incident 2013) undergoing VATS or OT from German insurance claims data and performed 1:2 propensity score matching. A 3-year survival was analysed using the Kaplan–Meier curves and a univariable Cox model. Group differences in the 3-year lung cancer-related costs and costs of hospital stay with lobectomy were compared via univariable generalized linear gamma models. LOS was compared using the Mann–Whitney–Wilcoxon test.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, we compared 294 patients undergoing VATS and 588 receiving OT. We found no differences in the 3-year survival (VATS: 73.8%, OT: 69.2%, P = 0.131) or costs for hospital stay with lobectomy (VATS: €11 921, OT: €12 281, P = 0.573). However, VATS patients had significantly lower lung cancer-related costs (VATS: €20 828, OT: €23 723, P = 0.028) and median postoperative LOS (VATS: 9 days, OT: 11 days, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

From a payer's perspective, extending the use of VATS is beneficial, as it shows economic benefits without affecting survival. However, for a more comprehensive assessment of the benefits of VATS from a society’s point of view, further aspects such as patient-reported outcomes and provider-related standby costs need to be investigated further.
State Instigation in International Law: A General Principle Transposed
Authors: Jackson Miles
Published: May 2019

It is widely believed that international law imposes no general prohibition on instigation – no general prohibition on states inducing, inciting or procuring other states to breach their international obligations. The absence of a prohibition on instigation stands in contrast to the now entrenched prohibition on the provision of assistance to another state that facilitates an internationally wrongful act. In this article, I argue that the orthodox position on instigation is incorrect. I argue that a prohibition on instigation is founded on a general principle of law, as envisaged in Article 38(1)(c) of the Statute of the International Court of Justice, and that it would be appropriate to transpose that general principle to the international legal system. To sustain this argument, I first construct a representative set of domestic jurisdictions for comparative analysis. Second, through a brief comparative survey, I assess whether in each of these domestic jurisdictions it is wrongful, in one way or another, for an actor to instigate another to commit an act that it would be wrongful for it to do itself. And, third, I argue that the transposition of this principle from domestic law to international law is conceptually and normatively appropriate.
The cost of non-Europe, revisited*
Authors: Mayer Thierry , Vicard Vincent , Zignago Soledad
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we quantify the “Cost of Non-Europe”, that is, the trade-related welfare gains each country member has reaped from the European Union (EU). Thirty years after the terminology of Non-Europe was used to give estimates of the gains from further integration, we use modern versions of the gravity model to estimate the trade creation implied by the EU, and apply those to counterfactual exercises where for instance the EU returns to a “normal,” shallow-type regional agreement, or reverts to WTO rules. Those scenarios are envisioned with or without the exit of the United Kingdom from the EU (Brexit) happening, which points to interesting cross-country differences and potential cascade effects in doing and undoing of trade agreements.
Back into the political? Rethinking judicial, legal, and transnational constitutionalism
Authors: Chang Wen-Chen
Published: May 2019

This article provides a critical reflection on constitutional developments around the world since 1989, and finds that the world of global constitutionalism has primarily embodied judicial, legal and transnational constitutionalism with court-centric, legal-texted, and elite-focused features. An overemphasis of constitutions as legal texts and courts as exclusive constitutional guardians has led to the domination of legal and judicial elites in constitutional and political spheres, and such an unequal playing field between legal and political actors has inevitably triggered the recent rise and resurgence of populism and neo-authoritarianism. This article argues that rather than purely legal or political, the nature of constitutions and constitutionalism presents an intricate set of intersecting law and politics, and that it is time now for constitutional law scholars to pay attention to political foundations of constitutionalism with further democratic revivals and better civic engagements.
Supervisión y Control v Costa Rica: Developing the Pantechniki v Albania1Standard for ‘Fork in the Road’ Provisions in Investment Treaties
Authors: Lee Serena , Phua Myron
Published: May 2019

This Note analyses the Award of 18 January 2017 in Supervisión y Control v Costa Rica. The Award is the second award hitherto made by an investor-state tribunal that directly affirms the approach pioneered in Pantechniki v Albania used to determine whether a ‘fork in the road’ provision in an bilateral investment treaty has been activated—as to bar a claim brought in litigation before a respondent State's courts from being arbitrated. Being so, the Award differs from the majority of other arbitral decisions applying the ‘triple identity’ test instead. We analyse what the Award has added to the existing jurisprudence on ‘fork in the road’ provisions, and the debate surrounding which test is to be preferred. We also discuss the extent to which the Award successfully resolves the problems associated with the ‘same fundamental basis’ test applied in Pantechniki, such as its potential vagueness, and the absence of a complete conceptual explanation as to why the reasoning in Woodruff might apply to ‘fork in the road’ provisions. Ultimately, we argue that the Award involves an insightful attempt at clarifying and developing the Pantechniki test, which could herald a new approach to be adopted by investor-state tribunals interpreting similar provisions.
The Science and Value of Diversity: Closing the Gaps in Our Understanding of Inclusion and Diversity
Authors: Swartz Talia H , Palermo Ann-Gel S , Masur Sandra K , Aberg Judith A
Published: May 2019

Diversity drives excellence. Diversity enhances innovation in biomedical sciences and, as it relates to novel findings and treatment of diverse populations, in the field of infectious diseases. There are many obstacles to achieving diversity in the biomedical workforce, which create challenges at the levels of recruitment, retention, education, and promotion of individuals. Here we present the challenges, opportunities, and suggestions for the field, institutions, and individuals to adopt in mitigating bias and achieving greater levels of equity, representation, and excellence in clinical practice and research. Our findings provide optimism for a bright future of fair and collaborative approaches that will enhance the power of our biomedical workforce.
Recurrent Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus in a Patient With a Novel Toll-Like Receptor 3 Variant Linked to Compromised Activation Capacity in Fibroblasts
Authors: Liang Frank , Glans Hedvig , Enoksson Sara Lind , Kolios Antonios G A , Loré Karin , Nilsson Jakob
Published: May 2019

Background

Herpes zoster ophthalmicus occurs primarily in elderly or immunocompromised individuals after reactivation of varicella zoster virus (VZV). Recurrences of zoster ophthalmicus are uncommon because the reactivation efficiently boosts anti-VZV immunity. A 28-year-old female presented to our clinic with a history of multiple recurrences of zoster ophthalmicus.

Methods

Whole-exome sequencing (WES), analyses of VZV T-cell immunity, and pathogen recognition receptor function in primary antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and fibroblasts were performed.

Results

Normal VZV-specific T-cell immunity and antibody response were detected. Whole-exome sequencing identified a heterozygous nonsynonymous variant (c.2324C > T) in the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) gene resulting in formation of a premature stop-codon. This alteration could potentially undermine TLR3 signaling in a dominant-negative fashion. Therefore, we investigated TLR3 signaling responses in APCs and fibroblasts from the patient. The APCs responded efficiently to stimulation with TLR3 ligands, whereas the responses from the fibroblasts were compromised.

Conclusions

We report a novel TLR3 variant associated with recurrent zoster ophthalmicus. Toll-like receptor 3 responses that were unaffected in APCs but diminished in fibroblasts are in line with previous reports linking TLR3 deficiency with herpes simplex virus encephalitis. Mechanisms involving compromised viral sensing in infected cells may thus be central to the described immunodeficiency.
Correlation of the rumen fluid microbiome and the average daily gain with a dietary supplementation of Allium mongolicum Regel extracts in sheep1
Authors: Du Hongxi , Erdene Khas , Chen Shengyang , Qi Saruli , Bao Zhibi , Zhao Yaxing , Wang Cuifang , Zhao Guofen , Ao Changjin
Published: May 2019

Plant extracts can affect the rumen microbiome and ADG in ruminants, and studies of the association between the rumen microbiome and ADG provide information applicable to improving ruminant growth performance. The objectives were to investigate the effects of Allium mongolicum Regel extracts on the rumen microbiome and ADG and their association in sheep. Forty healthy, male, small-tailed Han sheep (6 mo, 34 ± 3.5 kg body weight) were randomly assigned to 1 of the following 4 dietary treatments: basal diet as control group (CK, n = 10), basal diet supplemented with 3.4 g·sheep−1·d−1A. mongolicum Regel powder extract as PAM group (PAM, n = 10), basal diet supplemented with 10 g·sheep−1·d−1A. mongolicum Regel powder as AM group (AM, n = 10), and basal diet supplemented with 10 g·sheep−1·d−1A. mongolicum Regel powder extract residue as RAM group (RAM, n = 10). The ADG for individual sheep was calculated using the sum of the ADGs observed during the experimental period divided by the number of days in the experimental period. At the end of the experiment, sheep were randomly selected from each treatment for slaughter (n = 6), and the rumen fluids were collected and stored immediately at −80 °C. Illumina HiSeq was subsequently used to investigate the changes in the rumen microbiome profile, and the associations with ADG were analyzed by Spearman correlation coefficient analysis. The results demonstrated that, compared with that in CK group, the ADG in AM and RAM significantly increased (P = 0.0171). The abundances of Tenericutes and Mollicutes ([ρ] = 0.5021, P = 0.0124) were positively correlated with ADG. Within Mollicutes, the abundances of Anaeroplasmatales ([ρ] = 0.5458, P = 0.0058) and Anaeroplasmataceae ([ρ] = 0.5458, P = 0.0058) were positively correlated with ADG. The main negatively correlated bacteria were Saccharibacteria ([ρ] = −0.4762, P = 0.0187) and Betaproteobacteria ([ρ] = −0.5669, P = 0.039). Although Anaeroplasmatales and Anaeroplasmataceae were positively correlated with ADG, Saccharibacteria and Betaproteobacteria were negatively correlated with ADG. In conclusion, supplementation with A. mongolicum Regel powder and extracts will influence the rumen microbiome and increase the ADG.
The Disputed Bounds of Muslim Warfare
Authors: Bakircioglu Onder
Published: May 2019

The justificatory grounds of Muslim war have long been subject to various interpretive analyses, which have taken customary, literalist, revivalist or reformist modalities of hermeneutics. Although scholars of jihad stand on a broader intellectual terrain, one may identify two major streams of thought: the ‘moderate’ and ‘radical’ schools. The principal bone of contention between these schools appertains to the question of whether a legitimate jihad is confined to self-defensive measures alone, or whether it may transcend such measures and be fought in furtherance of political ambitions. This article critically analyses such doctrinal views on Islamic jus ad bellum, arguing that the mainstream depiction of jihad is largely mono-dimensional that fails to capture the overall phenomenon within its contingent framework.
Owners’ Portfolio Diversification and Firm Investment
Authors: Lyandres Evgeny , Marchica Maria-Teresa , Michaely Roni , Mura Roberto
Published: May 2019

Portfolio diversification of firms’ controlling owners influences their firms’ capital investment. Empirically, the effect of owners’ portfolio diversification on their firms’ investment levels is positive for publicly traded firms and tends to be negative for privately held ones. These findings are consistent with predictions of a model in which a risk-averse investor simultaneously chooses her portfolio structure, and both the level and riskiness of capital investment of the firm she controls, and in which the firm can be potentially constrained in its capital investment choices. Overall, our results indicate that owners’ portfolio underdiversification and firms’ financial constraints can affect firms’ resource allocation.

Received May 3, 2017; editorial decision March 8, 2019 by Editor Francesca Cornelli. Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Social support modulates the neural correlates underlying social exclusion
Authors: Morese Rosalba , Lamm Claus , Bosco Francesca Marina , Valentini Maria  Consuelo , Silani Giorgia
Published: May 2019

Ostracism threatens the human need for social interactions, with negative consequences on cognition, affect and behavior. Understanding the mechanisms that can alleviate these consequences has therefore become an important research agenda. In this study, we used behavioral and fMRI measures to advance our understanding how social support can buffer the negative effects of social exclusion. We focused on two different types of support from a friend: emotional support, conveyed by gentle touch and appraisal support, implemented as informative text messages. Seventy-one female participants underwent fMRI scanning while playing a virtual ball-tossing game in the course of which they were excluded. Two consecutive runs of the game were separated according to the participant’s experimental condition (appraisal support, emotional support and no support). Results showed that the experience of social exclusion is modulated by the type of support received. Specifically, emotional support decreased negative emotions and anterior insula activity, while appraisal support increased negative emotions, with concomitant increase of subgenual anterior cingulate cortex and decrease of temporal-parietal junction activity. These divergent effects of social support point to the necessity to characterize whether and under which conditions it represents an effective and positive resource to alleviate the negative consequences of social exclusion.
Implicit Bias and the Feedback Paradox: Exploring How Health Professionals Engage With Feedback While Questioning Its Credibility
Authors: Sukhera Javeed , Wodzinski Michael , Milne Alexandra , Teunissen Pim W. , Lingard Lorelei , Watling Chris
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Learners and practicing health professionals may dismiss emotionally charged feedback related to self, yet little research has examined how to address feedback that threatens an individual’s identity. The implicit association test (IAT) provides feedback to individuals regarding their implicit biases. Anticipating feedback about implicit bias might be emotionally charged for mental health professionals, this study explored their experience of taking the IAT and receiving their results, to better understand the challenges of identity-threatening feedback.

Method

The researchers sampled 32 psychiatry nurses, psychiatrists, and psychiatric residents at Western University in Ontario, Canada, after they completed the mental illness IAT and received their results. Using constructivist grounded theory, semistructured interviews were conducted from April to October 2017 regarding participants’ experience of taking the IAT. Using constant comparative analysis, transcripts were iteratively coded and analyzed for results.

Results

While most participants critiqued the IAT and questioned its credibility, many also described the experience of receiving feedback about their implicit biases as positive or neutral. Most justified their implicit biases while acknowledging the need to better manage them.

Conclusions

These findings highlight a feedback paradox, calling into question assumptions regarding self-related feedback. Participants’ reactions to the IAT suggest that potentially threatening self-related feedback may still be useful to participants who question its credibility. Further exploration of how the feedback conversation influences engagement with self-related feedback is needed.
Reversal of Partial Neuromuscular Block and the Ventilatory Response to Hypoxia
Authors: Broens Suzanne J. L. , Boon Martijn , Martini Chris H. , Niesters Marieke , van Velzen Monique , Aarts Leon P. H. J. , Dahan Albert
Published: May 2019

Editor’s Perspective

What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New

Background

The ventilatory response to hypoxia is a life-saving chemoreflex originating at the carotid bodies that is impaired by nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents. This study evaluated the effect of three strategies for reversal of a partial neuromuscular block on ventilatory control in 34 healthy male volunteers on the chemoreflex. The hypothesis was that the hypoxic ventilatory response is fully restored following the return to a train-of-four ratio of 1.

Methods

In this single-center, experimental, randomized, controlled trial, ventilatory responses to 5-min hypoxia (oxygen saturation, 80 ± 2%) and ventilation at hyperoxic isohypercapnia (end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration, 55 mmHg) were obtained at baseline, during rocuronium-induced partial neuromuscular block (train-of-four ratio of 0.7 measured at the adductor pollicis muscle by electromyography), and following reversal until the train-of-four ratio reached unity with placebo (n = 12), 1 mg neostigmine/0.5 mg atropine (n = 11), or 2 mg/kg sugammadex (n = 11).

Results

This study confirmed that low-dose rocuronium reduced the ventilatory response to hypoxia from 0.55 ± 0.22 (baseline) to 0.31 ± 0.21 l · min−1 · %−1 (train-of-four ratio, 0.7; P < 0.001). Following full reversal as measured at the thumb, there was persistent residual blunting of the hypoxic ventilatory response (0.45 ± 0.16 l · min−1 · %−1; train-of-four ratio, 1.0; P < 0.001). Treatment effect was not significant (analysis of covariance, P = 0.299) with chemoreflex impairment in 5 (45%) subjects following sugammadex reversal, in 7 subjects (64%) following neostigmine reversal, and in 10 subjects (83%) after spontaneous reversal to a train-of-four ratio of 1.

Conclusions

Despite full reversal of partial neuromuscular block at the thumb, impairment of the peripheral chemoreflex may persist at train-of-four ratios greater than 0.9 following reversal with neostigmine and sugammadex or spontaneous recovery of the neuromuscular block.
Improving Clinical Outcomes in Cochlear Implantation Using Glucocorticoid Therapy: A Review
Authors: Cortés Fuentes Ignacio A. , Videhult Pierre Pernilla , Engmér Berglin Cecilia
Published: May 2019

Cochlear implant surgery is a successful procedure for auditory rehabilitation of patients with severe to profound hearing loss. However, cochlear implantation may lead to damage to the inner ear, which decreases residual hearing and alters vestibular function. It is now of increasing interest to preserve residual hearing during this surgery because this is related to better speech, music perception, and hearing in complex listening environments. Thus, different efforts have been tried to reduce cochlear implantation-related injury, including periprocedural glucocorticoids because of their anti-inflammatory properties. Different routes of administration have been tried to deliver glucocorticoids. However, several drawbacks still remain, including their systemic side effects, unknown pharmacokinetic profiles, and complex delivery methods. In the present review, we discuss the role of periprocedural glucocorticoid therapy to decrease cochlear implantation-related injury, thus preserving inner ear function after surgery. Moreover, we highlight the pharmacokinetic evidence and clinical outcomes which would sustain further interventions.
Artificial intelligence, osteoporosis and fragility fractures
Authors: Ferizi Uran , Honig Stephen , Chang Gregory
Published: May 2019

Purpose of review

Artificial intelligence tools have found new applications in medical diagnosis. These tools have the potential to capture underlying trends and patterns, otherwise impossible with previous modeling capabilities. Machine learning and deep learning models have found a role in osteoporosis, both to model the risk of fragility fracture, and to help with the identification and segmentation of images.

Recent findings

Here we survey the latest research in the artificial intelligence application to the prediction of osteoporosis that has been published between January 2017 and March 2019. Around half of the articles that are covered here predict (by classification or regression) an indicator of osteoporosis, such as bone mass or fragility fractures; the other half of studies use tools for automatic segmentation of the images of patients with or at risk of osteoporosis. The data for these studies include diverse signal sources: acoustics, MRI, CT, and of course, X-rays.

New methods for automatic image segmentation, and prediction of fracture risk show promising clinical value. Though these recent developments have had a successful initial application to osteoporosis research, their development is still under improvement, such as accounting for positive/negative class bias. We urge care when reporting accuracy metrics, and when comparing such metrics between different studies.
Development of the Initial Surveys for the All of Us Research Program
Authors: Cronin Robert M. , Jerome Rebecca N. , Mapes Brandy , Andrade Regina , Johnston Rebecca , Ayala Jennifer , Schlundt David , Bonnet Kemberlee , Kripalani Sunil , Goggins Kathryn , Wallston Kenneth A. , Couper Mick P. , Elliott Michael R. , Harris Paul , Begale Mark , Munoz Fatima , Lopez-Class Maria , Cella David , Condon David , AuYoung Mona , Mazor Kathleen M. , Mikita Steve , Manganiello Michael , Borselli Nicholas , Fowler Stephanie , Rutter Joni L. , Denny Joshua C. , Karlson Elizabeth W. , Ahmedani Brian K. , O’Donnell Christopher J.
Published: May 2019

Background:

The All of Us Research Program is building a national longitudinal cohort and collecting data from multiple information sources (e.g., biospecimens, electronic health records, and mobile/wearable technologies) to advance precision medicine. Participant-provided information, collected via surveys, will complement and augment these information sources. We report the process used to develop and refine the initial three surveys for this program.

Methods:

The All of Us survey development process included: (1) prioritization of domains for scientific needs, (2) examination of existing validated instruments, (3) content creation, (4) evaluation and refinement via cognitive interviews and online testing, (5) content review by key stakeholders, and (6) launch in the All of Us electronic participant portal. All content was translated into Spanish.

Results:

We conducted cognitive interviews in English and Spanish with 169 participants, and 573 individuals completed online testing. Feedback led to over 40 item content changes. Lessons learned included: (1) validated survey instruments performed well in diverse populations reflective of All of Us; (2) parallel evaluation of multiple languages can ensure optimal survey deployment; (3) recruitment challenges in diverse populations required multiple strategies; and (4) key stakeholders improved integration of surveys into larger Program context.

Conclusions:

This efficient, iterative process led to successful testing, refinement, and launch of three All of Us surveys. Reuse of All of Us surveys, available at http://researchallofus.org, may facilitate large consortia targeting diverse populations in English and Spanish to capture participant-provided information to supplement other data, such as genetic, physical measurements, or data from electronic health records.
In utero tobacco smoke exposure, DNA methylation, and asthma in Latino children
Authors: Neophytou Andreas M. , Oh Sam S. , Hu Donglei , Huntsman Scott , Eng Celeste , Rodríguez-Santana José R. , Kumar Rajesh , Balmes John R. , Eisen Ellen A. , Burchard Esteban G.
Published: May 2019

Background:

Maternal smoking during pregnancy is a risk factor for chronic disease later in life and has been associated with variability of DNA methylation at specific cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) loci. We assessed the role of DNA methylation as a potential mediator of adverse effects of in utero tobacco smoke exposures on asthma outcomes in Latino children from the US mainland and Puerto Rico.

Methods:

Relationships between self-reported exposure and DNA methylation at CpG loci previously reported to be associated with maternal smoking were assessed in a subsample consisting of 572 children aged 8–21 years (310 cases with asthma, 262 healthy controls), sampled from a larger asthma case-control study. Subsequently, we assessed associations between top loci and asthma-related outcomes, followed by mediation analysis for loci for which associations with outcomes were observed.

Results:

Self-reported maternal smoking was associated with a −1.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) = −2.4%, −0.6%) lower methylation at CpG locus cg05575921 on the AHRR gene; a 1% increase in DNA methylation at the same locus resulted in an odds ratio (OR) of 0.90 (95% CI = 0.83, 0.96) for the odds of asthma. The OR for the indirect effect of maternal smoking on asthma mediated through methylation at the cg05575921 locus was 1.18 (95% CI = 1.07, 1.68), compared to the OR for the total effect of exposure in the parent study of 1.48 (95% CI = 1.03, 2.11).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest potential mediation by DNA methylation in the association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and asthma status.
Prevention and management of bowel injury during gynecologic laparoscopy: an update
Authors: Eisner Isabel S. , Wadhwa Ruchi K. , Downing Keith T. , Singhal Pankaj K.
Published: May 2019

Purpose of review

The current article aims to briefly review recent literature on bowel injury in gynecologic surgery with a focus on minimally invasive techniques, strategies for prevention, and management of injury.

Recent findings

Recent reviews describe a low incidence of bowel injury that is likely affected by low rates of reporting and inconsistent definitions. The major risk factor for bowel injury is adhesive disease, and assessment and prevention techniques for the presence of adhesive disease are evolving. When bowel injury occurs, prompt diagnosis and intraoperative repair yields more favorable outcomes than delayed diagnosis. Repair can be performed by a gynecologic surgeon, with or without the help of a consultant depending on the extent of the injury and surgeon comfort.

Bowel injury is a potentially catastrophic complication in gynecologic surgery, but its rarity presents a challenge in research. A high index of suspicion and meticulous surgical technique are the cornerstones of managing a bowel injury.
Utility of the Early Delay and Disabilities Code Set for Exploring the Linkage Between ICF-CY and Assessment Reports for Children With Developmental Delay
Authors: Pan Yi-Ling , Hwang Ai-Wen , Simeonsson Rune J. , Lu Lu , Liao Hua-Fang
Published: May 2019

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) offers a universal language of codes to document childhood functioning. The ICF-CY Code Set for Infants with Early Delay and Disabilities (EDD Code Set) has been developed to facilitate the practical application of the ICF for children. The purpose of this study was to examine the utility of the EDD Code Set by exploring the linkage between ICF and children's assessment reports. We reviewed 30 Comprehensive Assessment Reports (CAR) for children with developmental delay (DD), aged 9–34 months in a joint evaluation center. Meaningful concepts in compulsory and supplementary sections of the CAR were identified and linked to the EDD Code Set. Linkage was measured by (a) number of linked codes and (b) average of code-only and code-with-qualifier percentages. Content in the CAR was linked to 72 of the 82 EDD codes with more codes linked from the supplementary (71) than the compulsory section (58). The largest proportion of linked codes was activities and participation (85%). The EDD Code Set can be used to examine the ICF linkage of pediatric assessment reports and guide future development or revision of pediatric documentation and participation-based intervention.
Do chronic pain and comorbidities affect brain function in sickle cell patients? A systematic review of neuroimaging and treatment approaches
Authors: Da Silva Joyce T. , Letzen Janelle E. , Haythornthwaite Jennifer A. , Finan Patrick H. , Campbell Claudia M. , Seminowicz David A.
Published: May 2019

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a medical condition in which chronic pain is common and negatively impacts psychosocial function and quality of life. Although the brain mechanisms underlying chronic pain are well studied in other painful conditions, the brain mechanisms underlying chronic pain and the associated psychosocial comorbidities are not well established in SCD. A growing literature demonstrates the effect of treatment of chronic pain, including pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, on brain function. The present systematic review aimed to (1) determine the effects of chronic pain and psychosocial comorbidities on brain function of patients with SCD; (2) summarize pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches to treat these symptoms; and (3) identify areas for further investigation of potential beneficial effects of treatments on brain function. Titles were screened using predefined criteria, including SCD, and abstracts and full texts were reviewed by 2 independent reviewers. A total of 1167 SCD articles were identified, and 86 full articles were included covering 3 sections: chronic pain (4 studies), psychosocial comorbidities (11 studies), and pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments (71 studies). Neuroimaging evidence demonstrates aberrant neural processing related to chronic pain and psychosocial comorbidities in SCD beyond ischemic stroke and cerebral hemorrhage. Although neuroimaging studies show an important role for psychological factors, pain management is nearly exclusively based on opioids. Behavior therapy seems useful to improve psychological symptoms as well as chronic pain and quality of life. Further investigation is required with larger cohorts, matched controls, and examination of treatment-related neural mechanisms.