bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Differential Role of R&D and SG&A for Earnings Management and Stock Price Manipulation*
Authors: Sun Estelle Y.
Published: July 2020

This paper documents a differential role of R&D versus selling, general, and administrative expenses (SG&A) for real earnings management. The distinction of these two components is important because prior studies mostly examine their combined use, but firms could manipulate them differently given the differing valuation implications. Reduced SG&A is viewed positively by investors as evidence of cost reduction, while reduced R&D is viewed negatively by investors as such expenditures are critical signals of expected growth. I examine their use in the context of seasoned equity offerings (SEOs) as well as firms receiving accounting and auditing enforcement releases (AAERs). Although both groups face strong incentives to manage earnings upward by reducing expenses, I predict and find that firms will reduce SG&A but increase R&D. During the manipulation period, SEO and AAER firms exhibit lower discretionary SG&A and higher discretionary R&D, relative to control firms, and investors positively value low discretionary SG&A and high discretionary R&D. Overall, this study confirms the importance of distinguishing between R&D and SG&A in real earnings management contexts and suggests a complementary (substitutive) relation between cutting SG&A (R&D) and accruals management.
FOXO3a acts to suppress DNA double‐strand break‐induced mutations
Authors: White Ryan R. , Maslov Alexander Y. , Lee Moonsook , Wilner Samantha E. , Levy Matthew , Vijg Jan
Published: July 2020

Genomic instability is one of the hallmarks of aging, and both DNA damage and mutations have been found to accumulate with age in different species. Certain gene families, such as sirtuins and the FoxO family of transcription factors, have been shown to play a role in lifespan extension. However, the mechanism(s) underlying the increased longevity associated with these genes remains largely unknown and may involve the regulation of responses to cellular stressors, such as DNA damage. Here, we report that FOXO3a reduces genomic instability in cultured mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) treated with agents that induce DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs), that is, clastogens. We show that DSB treatment of both primary human and mouse fibroblasts upregulates FOXO3a expression. FOXO3a ablation in MEFs harboring the mutational reporter gene lacZ resulted in an increase in genome rearrangements after bleomycin treatment; conversely, overexpression of human FOXO3a was found to suppress mutation accumulation in response to bleomycin. We also show that overexpression of FOXO3a in human primary fibroblasts decreases DSB‐induced γH2AX foci. Knocking out FOXO3a in mES cells increased the frequency of homologous recombination and non‐homologous end‐joining events. These results provide the first direct evidence that FOXO3a plays a role in suppressing genome instability, possibly by suppressing genome rearrangements.
Activation of CXCR7 promotes endothelial repair and reduces the carotid atherosclerotic lesions through inhibition of pyroptosis signaling pathways
Authors: Qiu Lisha , Zhang Min , Zhang Sheng , Tang Yalin , Zhang Yanyan , Li Congcong , Wang Yi , Jiang Li , Zheng Jialin C.
Published: July 2020

Endothelial injuries, including cell pyroptosis, are ongoing inflammatory processes with key roles in atherosclerosis development. Our previous report showed that the chemokine CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR7 are associated with the proliferation and angiogenesis of endothelial cells. Nevertheless, the mechanism underlying these effects on atherosclerotic lesions, especially on endothelial dysfunction, remains unknown. Here, we demonstrated that CXCR7 was upregulated in human carotid atherosclerotic plaques, apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE−/−) mice fed with a high‐fat diet (HFD), and oxidized lipopolysaccharide‐treated (ox‐LDL) human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Further, the activation of CXCR7 reversed ox‐LDL‐induced HUVEC dysfunction, such as migration, tube formation, and cell pyroptosis; all of these protective effects were alleviated by inhibition of CXCR7. The NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain‐containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes were also elevated in human carotid atherosclerotic plaques, ApoE−/− mice fed with HFD, and ox‐LDL‐injured HUVECs by regulation of caspase‐1 and interleukin (IL)‐1β expression. The activation of CXCR7 by TC14012 led to a decrease in atherosclerotic lesions in ApoE−/− mice fed with HFD. TC14012 also inhibited the expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway in vivo. In conclusion, our study suggests that CXCR7 plays an important role in regulating NLRP3 inflammasome‐modulated pyroptosis in HUVECs, providing a potential novel therapy for atherosclerosis.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: global prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia according to the Rome criteria
Authors: Barberio Brigida , Mahadeva Sanjiv , Black Christopher J. , Savarino Edoardo V. , Ford Alexander C.
Published: July 2020

Background

Prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia varies across cross‐sectional surveys. This may be due to differences in definitions used or study methodology, rather than global variability.

Aim

To determine the global prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia according to Rome criteria.

Methods

MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched to identify population‐based studies reporting prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia in adults (≥18 years old) according to Rome I, II, III or IV criteria. Prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia was extracted, according to criteria used to define it. Pooled prevalence, according to study location and certain other characteristics, odds ratios (OR), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results

Of 2133 citations evaluated, 67 studies fulfilled eligibility criteria, representing 98 separate populations, comprising 338 383 subjects. Pooled prevalence ranged from 17.6% (95% CI 9.8%‐27.1%) in studies defining uninvestigated dyspepsia according to Rome I criteria, to 6.9% (95% CI 5.7%‐8.2%) in those using Rome IV criteria. Postprandial distress syndrome was the commonest subtype, occurring in 46.2% of participants using Rome III criteria, and 62.8% with Rome IV. Prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia was up to 1.5‐fold higher in women, irrespective of the definition used. There was significant heterogeneity between studies in all our analyses, which persisted even when the same criteria were applied and similar methodology was used.

Conclusions

Even when uniform symptom‐based criteria are used to define the presence of uninvestigated dyspepsia, prevalence varies between countries. This suggests that there are environmental, cultural, ethnic, dietary or genetic influences determining symptoms.
Evaluation of prognosis after thoracoscopic lobectomy for primary lung cancer
Authors: Tochii Sachiko , Kawai Hiroshi , Ishizawa Hisato , Nagano Hiromitsu , Negi Takahiro , Tochii Daisuke , Suda Takashi , Hoshikawa Yasushi
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Thoracoscopic lobectomy for primary lung cancer is performed at many institutions. However, few reports are available on postoperative prognosis for progressive stages. In 2004, we adopted lobectomy by video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which would be applicable to the clinical stages up to stage IIIA. This study reports long‐term outcomes of surgery for primary lung cancer at several stages, including IIIA.

Methods

We compared the long‐term outcomes of 315 VATS cases with those of 159 open thoracotomy cases.

Results

The overall 5‐year survival rate was 78.1% for the VATS group and 61.9% for the open thoracotomy group. A statistically significant difference between the survival curves of the two groups was observed (P = .001). When analyzing the survival curves for both groups by pathological (p) stage, significant differences were observed for p‐stages IB and IIIA, with the VATS group producing better results than the open thoracotomy group.

Conclusion

The long‐term outcomes of patients with primary lung cancer at our institution were more favorable in the group undergoing VATS lobectomy than in the group undergoing open thoracotomy.
Innovative marking method using novel endoscopic clip equipped with fluorescent resin to locate gastric cancer
Authors: Namikawa Tsutomu , Hashiba Motoi , Kitagawa Hiroyuki , Mizuta Hiroshi , Uchida Kazushige , Sato Takayuki , Kobayashi Michiya , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: July 2020

An asymptomatic 76‐year‐old man presented to our department for the treatment of gastric cancer. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a superficial elevated lesion with an irregular central depression in the lower third of the stomach; this was confirmed to be adenocarcinoma by biopsy, while abdominal contrast‐enhanced CT revealed no abnormal lesions. Based on the patient's clinical diagnosis of early gastric cancer, we planned laparoscopic gastrectomy with preoperative placement of four endoscopic marking clips equipped with indocyanine green‐conjugated resin to determine the resection margin. During surgery, a dedicated laparoscopic system was used to detect indocyanine green fluorescence emitted by the clips and determine their precise position. The clips helped to identify an accurate resection line for the stomach, enabling accurate laparoscopic distal gastrectomy with regional lymphadenectomy. We successfully demonstrated the usefulness of clips with fluorescent resin for detecting gastric cancer in patients. We report the first case using the clips to accurately locate a site of interest.
Inherited cases of CNOT3‐associated intellectual developmental disorder with speech delay, autism, and dysmorphic facies
Authors: Meyer Robert , Begemann Matthias , Demuth Stephanie , Kraft Florian , Dey Daniela , Schüler Herdit , Busse Sabine , Häusler Martin , Zerres Klaus , Kurth Ingo , Eggermann Thomas , Elbracht Miriam
Published: July 2020

De novo pathogenic variants in CNOT3 have recently been reported in a developmental delay disorder (intellectual developmental disorder with speech delay, autism, and dysmorphic facies [IDDSADF, OMIM: #618672]). The patients present with a variable degree of developmental delay and behavioral problems. To date, all reported disease‐causing variants occurred de novo and no parent‐child transmission was observed. We report for the first time autosomal dominant transmissions of the CNOT3‐associated developmental disorder in two unrelated families. The clinical characteristics in our patients match the IDDSADF features reported so far and suggest substantial variability of the phenotype within the same family.
Ryle on knowing how: Some clarifications and corrections
Authors: Brandt Stefan
Published: July 2020

I argue for an account of know‐how as a capacity for practical judgment—a view I derive from Gilbert Ryle. I begin by offering an interpretation of Ryle and by correcting a number of widespread misconceptions about his views in the current debate. I then identify some problems with Ryle's account and finally present my own view which, I argue, retains Ryle's insights while avoiding his mistakes.
Effective Use of Parenting Coordination: Considerations for Legal and Mental Health Professionals
Authors: Sullivan Matthew , Burns Annette
Published: July 2020

Parenting Coordination (PC) is a dispute resolution and case management role to assist high conflict coparents (Coates et al., Family Court Review, 2004; 42, 246–262; Sullivan, Journal of Child Custody, 2008; 5, 3–24; Carter & Lally, Parenting Coordination in Post‐Separation Disputes, 2014; Fidler, Canadian Family Law Quarterly, 2012; 31, 237–273). A revision of the original practice 2005 guidelines for parenting coordination was just published by the Association of Families and Conciliation Courts in 2019, providing an update for the family justice community about developments in the parenting coordinator (PC) role in the last 14 years. This article focuses on how family law professionals can support effective parenting coordination practice in their jurisdiction. Support begins with understanding the PC role as the most intensive intervention available at this time for high conflict coparents, and guidance about what types of cases are appropriate for referral and which are not. A description of the essential components of appointment orders, parenting coordination procedures, and court review are provided as well to best structure the parenting coordination process for success. Finally, the article addresses how jurisdictions can support the development and maintenance of this unique role.
Parenting Coordination In Cases Involving Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Drozd Leslie M. , Deutsch Robin M. , Donner David A.
Published: July 2020

Parenting Coordination is a “hybrid legal‐mental health role that combines assessment, education, case management, conflict management, dispute resolution and, often times, decision‐making functions (AFCC, 2019, https://www.afccnet.org/Portals/0/PublicDocuments/Guidelines%20for%20PC%20with%20Appendex.pdf?ver=2020-01-30-190220-990). This article addresses issues that arise when the case has allegations or findings of intimate partner violence (IPV). Considerations of the type of IPV, the severity, timing, perpetrator and effects on coparenting are discussed in the context of the parenting coordinator's role. Through screening and assessment, we differentiate the kinds of cases with the presence of IPV where a PC may be effective as opposed to other IPV cases that may not predict success for retaining a PC.
Evaluating the potential of full‐waveform lidar for mapping pan‐tropical tree species richness
Authors: Marselis Suzanne M. , Abernethy Katharine , Alonso Alfonso , Armston John , Baker Timothy R. , Bastin Jean‐Francois , Bogaert Jan , Boyd Doreen S. , Boeckx Pascal , Burslem David F. R. P. , Chazdon Robin , Clark David B. , Coomes David , Duncanson Laura , Hancock Steven , Hill Ross , Hopkinson Chris , Kearsley Elizabeth , Kellner James R. , Kenfack David , Labrière Nicolas , Lewis Simon L. , Minor David , Memiaghe Hervé , Monteagudo Abel , Nilus Reuben , O'Brien Michael , Phillips Oliver L. , Poulsen John , Tang Hao , Verbeeck Hans , Dubayah Ralph
Published: July 2020

Aim

Mapping tree species richness across the tropics is of great interest for effective conservation and biodiversity management. In this study, we evaluated the potential of full‐waveform lidar data for mapping tree species richness across the tropics by relating measurements of vertical canopy structure, as a proxy for the occupation of vertical niche space, to tree species richness.

Location

Tropics.

Time period

Present.

Major taxa studied

Trees.

Methods

First, we evaluated the characteristics of vertical canopy structure across 15 study sites using (simulated) large‐footprint full‐waveform lidar data (22 m diameter) and related these findings to in‐situ tree species information. Then, we developed structure–richness models at the local (within 25–50 ha plots), regional (biogeographical regions) and pan‐tropical scale at three spatial resolutions (1.0, 0.25 and 0.0625 ha) using Poisson regression.

Results

The results showed a weak structure–richness relationship at the local scale. At the regional scale (within a biogeographical region) a stronger relationship between canopy structure and tree species richness across different tropical forest types was found, for example across Central Africa and in South America [R2 ranging from .44–.56, root mean squared difference as a percentage of the mean (RMSD%) ranging between 23–61%]. Modelling the relationship pan‐tropically, across four continents, 39% of the variation in tree species richness could be explained with canopy structure alone (R2 = .39 and RMSD% = 43%, 0.25‐ha resolution).

Main conclusions

Our results may serve as a basis for the future development of a set of structure–richness models to map high resolution tree species richness using vertical canopy structure information from the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI). The value of this effort would be enhanced by access to a larger set of field reference data for all tropical regions. Future research could also support the use of GEDI data in frameworks using environmental and spectral information for modelling tree species richness across the tropics.
The direct and indirect effects of China's wastewater treatment service on urban household wastewater discharge
Authors: Zheng Jiajia , Kamal Muhammad Abdul , Ullah Assad
Published: July 2020

Urban household wastewater has surged with the urbanization in China, treatment of which demands attention. Utilizing China’s urban panel data from 2005 to 2015, this article evaluates whether governmental wastewater treatment service changes urban residents’ wastewater‐discharging behaviors. The outcomes reveal that: (a) in the short‐run when the local government treats more wastewater, the residents discharge more wastewater; (b) this short‐run relationship is notably strengthened by household attributes, that is, income and education; (c) in the long‐run, the increasing relationship between household wastewater discharge and wastewater treatment service also exists significantly, which calls for immediate attention of policy makers.
The pyrin inflammasome and the Yersinia effector interaction
Authors: Malik Haleema S. , Bliska James B.
Published: July 2020

Pyrin is a cytosolic pattern‐recognition receptor that normally functions as a guard to trigger capase‐1 inflammasome assembly in response to bacterial toxins and effectors that inactivate RhoA. The MEFV gene encoding human pyrin is preferentially expressed in phagocytes. Key domains in pyrin include a pyrin domain (PYD), a linker region, and a B30.2 domain. Binding of ASC to pyrin by a PYD‐PYD interaction triggers inflammasome assembly. Pyrin is held in an inactive conformation by negative regulation mechanisms to avoid premature inflammasome assembly. One mechanism of negative regulation involves phosphorylation of the linker by PRK kinase which in turn is positively regulated by active RhoA. The B30.2 domain also negatively regulates pyrin. Gain of function mutations in MEFV responsible for the autoinflammatory disease Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) map to exon 10 encoding the B30.2 domain. Insights into pyrin regulation have come from studies of several Yersinia effectors, which are injected into phagocytes and interact with the RhoA‐PRK‐pyrin axis during infection. Two effectors, YopE and YopT, inactivate RhoA to disrupt phagocytic signaling. To counteract an effector‐triggered immune response, a third effector, YopM, binds to and inhibits pyrin by hijacking PRK and RSK and directing linker phosphorylation. Inhibition of pyrin by YopM is required for virulence of Yersinia pestis, the agent of plague. Recent results from infection studies with human phagocytes and mice producing pyrin B30.2 FMF variants show that gain of function MEFV mutations bypass inhibition by YopM. Population genetic data suggest that MEFV mutations were selected for in individuals of Mediterranean decent during historic plague pandemics. This review discusses current concepts of pyrin regulation and its interaction with Yersinia effectors.
A Survey of Differentially Private Regression for Clinical and Epidemiological Research
Authors: Ficek Joseph , Wang Wei , Chen Henian , Dagne Getachew , Daley Ellen
Published: July 2020

Differential privacy is a framework for data analysis that provides rigorous privacy protections for database participants. It has increasingly been accepted as the gold standard for privacy in the analytics industry, yet there are few techniques suitable for statistical inference in the health sciences. This is notably the case for regression, one of the most widely used modelling tools in clinical and epidemiological studies. This paper provides an overview of differential privacy and surveys the literature on differentially private regression, highlighting the techniques that hold the most relevance for statistical inference as practiced in clinical and epidemiological research. Research gaps and opportunities for further inquiry are identified.
Electrospun hydrophobe nanofibrous membrane based on polysulfone/Triton x‐100: A novel vehicle to concentrate pomegranate juice
Authors: Najafi Amin , Emam‐Djomeh Zahra , Askari Gholamreza , Fathi Morteza
Published: July 2020

Aims

The present work aimed to fabricate an electrospun hydrophobe nanofibrous membrane based on polysulfone (PSF) to concentrate pomegranate juice, and evaluate the effect of Triton x‐100 (TR‐100) on the physicochemical properties of the fabricated membrane.

Methods

Morphological properties, surface hydrophobicity, and mechanical performance of the nanofibrous membrane were evaluated, and then, its ability to concentrate pomegranate juice was tested.

Results

The viscosity of PSF and PSF/TR‐100 solutions was 1.006 and 0.715 Pa·s, respectively, indicating a positive effect of the surfactant on the quality of the fabricated fibers. Scanning electron microscopy exhibited the formation of smoother and finer fibers in the presence of TR‐100 surfactant. Contact angle for the PSF and PSF/TR‐100 nanofibrous membrane was 90° and 103°, respectively, showing their hydrophobic surface. The addition of TR‐100 led to an increase in the membrane's tensile strength. The optimal conditions to produce concentrated juice were osmotic solution concentration of 4 M and a temperature of 31.2°C. The anthocyanins and phenolic content, as well as the antioxidant activity of the concentrated juice, were not significantly different from the fresh sample.

Conclusion

The use of the developed membrane can be introduced as a suitable method to produce pomegranate juice with preserved qualitative attributes.

Practical Applications

Considering the various benefits of the fabricated membrane, it can be used to produce pomegranate juice with preserved qualitative properties.
Pharmacological postconditioning: a molecular aspect in ischemic injury
Authors: Khan Heena , Kashyap Ankita , Kaur Amarjot , Singh Thakur Gurjeet
Published: July 2020

Objective

Ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is defined as the damage to the tissue which is caused when blood supply returns to tissue after ischaemia. To protect the ischaemic tissue from irreversible injury, various protective agents have been studied but the benefits have not been clinically applicable due to monotargeting, low potency, late delivery or poor tolerability.

Key Findings

Strategies involving preconditioning or postconditioning can address the issues related to the failure of protective therapies. In principle, postconditioning (PoCo) is clinically more applicable in the conditions in which there is unannounced ischaemic event. Moreover, PoCo is an attractive beneficial strategy as it can be induced rapidly at the onset of reperfusion via series of brief I/R cycles following a major ischaemic event or it can be induced in a delayed manner. Various pharmacological postconditioning (pPoCo) mechanisms have been investigated systematically. Using different animal models, most of the studies on pPoCo have been carried out preclinically.

However, there is a need for the optimization of the clinical protocols to quicken pPoCo clinical translation for future studies. This review summarizes the involvement of various receptors and signalling pathways in the protective mechanisms of pPoCo.
Genomic insights into speciation history and local adaptation of an alpine aspen in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and adjacent highlands
Authors: Li Jia‐Liang , Zhong Lin‐Ling , Wang Jing , Ma Tao , Mao Kang‐Shan , Zhang Lei
Published: July 2020

Natural selection serves as an important agent to drive and maintain interspecific divergence. Populus rotundifolia Griff. is an alpine aspen species that mainly occurs in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) and adjacent highlands, whereas its sister species, P. davidiana Dode, is distributed across southwest and central to northeast China in much lower altitude regions. In this study, we collected genome resequencing data of 53 P. rotundifolia and 42 P. davidiana individuals across their natural distribution regions. Our population genomic data suggest that the two species are well delimitated in the allopatric regions, but with hybrid zones in their adjacent region in the eastern QTP. Coalescent simulations suggest that P. rotundifolia diverged from P. davidiana in the middle Pleistocene with following continuous gene flow since divergence. In addition, we found numerous highly diverged genes with outlier signatures that are likely associated with high‐altitude adaptation of these alpine aspens. Our finding indicate that Quaternary climatic changes and natural selection have greatly contributed to the origin and distinction maintenance of P. rotundifolia in the QTP.
Maternal folate, one‐carbon metabolism and pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Jankovic‐Karasoulos Tanja , Furness Denise L. , Leemaqz Shalem Y. , Dekker Gustaaf A. , Grzeskowiak Luke E. , Grieger Jessica A. , Andraweera Prabha H. , McCullough Dylan , McAninch Dale , McCowan Lesley M. , Bianco‐Miotto Tina , Roberts Claire T.
Published: July 2020

Single nucleotide polymorphisms and pre‐ and peri‐conception folic acid (FA) supplementation and dietary data were used to identify one‐carbon metabolic factors associated with pregnancy outcomes in 3196 nulliparous women. In 325 participants, we also measured circulating folate, vitamin B12 and homocysteine. Pregnancy outcomes included preeclampsia (PE), gestational hypertension (GHT), small for gestational age (SGA), spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Study findings show that maternal genotype MTHFR A1298C(CC) was associated with increased risk for PE, whereas TCN2 C766G(GG) had a reduced risk for sPTB. Paternal MTHFR A1298C(CC) and MTHFD1 G1958A(AA) genotypes were associated with reduced risk for sPTB, whereas MTHFR C677T(CT) genotype had an increased risk for GHT. FA supplementation was associated with higher serum folate and vitamin B12 concentrations, reduced uterine artery resistance index and increased birth weight. Women who supplemented with <800 μg daily FA at 15‐week gestation had a higher incidence of PE (10.3%) compared with women who did not supplement (6.1%) or who supplemented with ≥800 μg (5.4%) (P < .0001). Higher serum folate levels were found in women who later developed GDM compared with women with uncomplicated pregnancies (Mean ± SD: 37.6 ± 8 nmol L−1 vs. 31.9 ± 11.2, P = .007). Fast food consumption was associated with increased risk for developing GDM, whereas low consumption of green leafy vegetables and fruit were independent risk factors for SGA and GDM and sPTB and SGA, respectively. In conclusion, maternal and paternal genotypes, together with maternal circulating folate and homocysteine concentrations, and pre‐ and early‐pregnancy dietary factors, are independent risk factors for pregnancy complications.
Adropin as a potential mediator of the metabolic system‐autonomic nervous system‐chronobiology axis: Implementing a personalized signature‐based platform for chronotherapy
Authors: Kolben Yotam , Weksler‐Zangen Sarah , Ilan Yaron
Published: July 2020

Adropin is a peptide hormone, which plays a role in energy homeostasis and controls glucose and fatty acid metabolism. Its levels correlate with changes in carbohydrate‐lipid metabolism, metabolic diseases, central nervous system function, endothelial function and cardiovascular disease. Both metabolic pathways and adropin are regulated by the circadian clocks. Here, we review the roles of the autonomic nervous system and circadian rhythms in regulating metabolic pathways and energy homeostasis. The beneficial effects of chronotherapy in various systems are discussed. We suggest a potential role for adropin as a mediator of the metabolic system‐autonomic nervous system axis. We discuss the possibility of establishing an individualized adropin and circadian rhythm‐based platform for implementing chronotherapy, and variability signatures for improving the efficacy of adropin‐based therapies are discussed.
US light tight oil: Is it really a demand problem rather than a supply one?
Authors: Graham Roddy , Merino Garcia Pedro Antonio
Published: July 2020

Production of Light Tight Oil (LTO), also known as “Shale Oil”, has grown quickly over the last decade. The discussion regarding LTO has always been about supply and the ability of LTO producers to continue to grow production over the coming years. Little has been written regarding the demand for LTO and whether refineries can process this extra light oil. This analysis attempts to start a conversation to determine how much light crude oil the global refinery system can absorb and how much LTO can grow before there is oversupply.
Impact of oil prices and exchange rates on major sectoral indices in India
Authors: Muhammad Ashiq AM , Shanmugasundaram G.
Published: July 2020

Crude oil consumption is growing with the pace of the economy in India. More than 80% of India's crude oil requirements is met from imports, and millions of Dollars are paid out for purchasing this inevitable resource. It is logical to assume that the sectors, which will be most affected by oil price changes, would belong to the oil‐related industrial sectors. In this context, this study is attempted to see how the oil price and exchange rate impact different sectoral indices in India using the ARDL model for the period from 1999 to 2018. From the empirical findings, we can summarise that dynamics in the exchange rate market have affected the stock prices of various sectors more than the crude oil prices in the Indian context. The reason for the oil price not showing a significant impact on any of the sectoral indices could be the significantly higher and lower crude oil prices that have prevailed within the study period, which could have offset this impact.
Impact of oil prices on remittances to Pakistan from GCC countries: evidence from panel asymmetric analysis
Authors: Abbas Shujaat
Published: July 2020

International migration and remittances from oil‐exporting Gulf countries are important sources of employment, income and foreign exchange for Pakistan. This study investigates the asymmetric impact of oil prices on remittances to Pakistan from GCC countries, over the period 1980 to 2018, by employing the recently advanced non‐linear panel pooled mean group (PMG) model. The findings show that oil prices and remittance are asymmetrically associated. The increasing oil prices have a significant positive effect only in the long run, whereas reducing oil prices reveal a significant negative effect only in the short run. Findings of other explanatory variables show that the economic condition in host countries, exchange rate, and trade relations have positive effects only in the long run, whereas the economic condition in the home country has significant negative effects in the long run and positive effect in the short run. This study urges oil exporters to stabilise oil supply and prices, and Pakistan to enhance trade relations, exchange rate adjustments and financial development.
Electrocardiographic patterns predictive of left bundle branch block correction with His bundle pacing
Authors: Moriña‐Vázquez Pablo , Moraleda‐Salas Maria Teresa , Arce‐León Álvaro , Fernández‐Gómez Juan Manuel , Venegas‐Gamero José , Díaz‐Fernández José Francisco
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Permanent His bundle pacing (p‐HBP) could be an alternative for traditional cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), but an important limitation is that p‐HBP cannot always correct the left bundle branch block (LBBB). The purpose of this article is to assess electrocardiographic patterns of LBBB that can predict electrocardiographic response (QRS narrowing) to His bundle pacing.

Methods

We designed a prospective descriptive study of patients with LBBB and CRT indication proposed for CRT by p‐HBP. We analyzed the correlation between the different electrocardiographic patterns and the correction of conduction disturbance (LBBB).

Results

We included 70 patients. Pacing at the location where His bundle electrogram was recorded narrowed the QRS in 81.4% (n = 57). Basically, we identified two electrocardiographic patterns in lead V1: QS or rS. The QS pattern was a sensitivity of 56%, a specificity of 84.6%, and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 94.1% to predict the correction of the LBBB (area under the curve [AUC] = .70). In patients with rS pattern, a ratio between the descending and the ascending S wave component duration ≥0.64 was a very good predictor of the correction of the LBBB (AUC = .968); with a value ≥0.64, the sensitivity, specificity, and PPV was 92%, 100%, and 100%, respectively.

Conclusions

In patients with LBBB and CRT indication, the QS pattern in lead V1 predicts the correction of the QRS with HBP. In the case of rS pattern in lead V1, the ratio descending/ascending S wave component duration has a strong correlation with the LBBB correction.
Moving towards more sustainable aquaculture practices: a meta‐analysis on the potential of plant‐enriched diets to improve fish growth, immunity and disease resistance
Authors: Reverter Miriam , Tapissier‐Bontemps Nathalie , Sarter Samira , Sasal Pierre , Caruso Domenico
Published: July 2020

Aquatic animal diseases are one of the major limiting factors in aquaculture development, with disease emergence forecast to increase with global change. However, in order to treat increasing diseases in a context of global emergence of antimicrobial resistance and strengthening regulations on antimicrobial use, sustainable alternatives are urgently needed. The use of plant supplements to increase fish immunity and disease resistance has gained much popularity within the last decades. The use of functional supplements, such as plants, can also improve growth and feed assimilation, contributing to a better optimization of aquaculture resources (e.g. fish meal inclusion). We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis in order to identify the research gaps in the use of plant‐enriched diets in fish aquaculture and estimate, for the first time, the overall efficacy of plant‐enriched diets on fish growth, immunity and disease resistance as well as the effect of intrinsic parameters (fish trophic level, type of plant material, dosage, treatment duration and pathogen species) on the treatment efficacy. We found that plant‐enriched diets significantly enhanced growth, immunity and disease survival of treated fish, regardless of the fish trophic level, treatment duration and type of material used. We also show that plant supplements are a versatile alternative that can benefit different aquaculture sectors (from small‐scale fish farmers to intensive productions). Finally, we observed that studies need to improve the information reported about the plant material used (e.g. origin, identification, chemical composition), in order to allow the comparison of different experiments and improve their repeatability.
Shame and moral autonomy
Authors: Kwong Jack M. C.
Published: July 2020

Does shame have a place in a mature moral agent's psychology? Does it play a useful and positive role in morality? One skepticism that disputes shame's compatibility with mature moral agency or its being a useful moral emotion is that shame appears heteronomous in nature: We experience shame not because we have behaved badly by our own moral standards, but because we have been reproved by other people and suffered an injury to our social image. To mitigate this skepticism, this paper will propose a way in which we can reconcile shame with moral autonomy. Specifically, I will argue that a mature moral agent is vulnerable to shame because she cares a great deal about morality, and possesses certain character traits that dispose her to take others’ moral criticisms seriously. Occurrences of shame therefore are not always a threat to a moral agent's autonomous moral judgment.
The Diplomacy of Clara Gonzaga, countess of Montpensier‐Bourbon: Gendered perspectives of family duty, honour and female agency
Authors: James Carolyn
Published: July 2020

Between the beginning of the Italian Wars in 1494 and her death in 1503, Clara Gonzaga, the countess of Montpensier‐Bourbon, was a significant intermediary in diplomatic relations between the French crown and her brother Francesco, the marquis of Mantua. Correspondence between the siblings and other letters from the Gonzaga archive offer us a rare glimpse of diplomacy from a woman’s perspective and in circumstances where it was necessary to navigate the diverging political perspectives and cultures of honour of natal and spousal kin. This essay explores the difficulties that Clara faced in attempting to influence her brother’s diplomacy and the angst she suffered as a result of his failure to concede that her honour might be distinct from his. I argue that despite these significant constraints, knowledge of a foreign language, closeness to royal power and a deep familiarity with the contrasting political traditions of her Italian and French relatives equipped Clara with skills that equalled, or perhaps sometimes rivalled, those of male diplomatic actors. Yet gendered orthodoxies inhibited acknowledgment by her brother of how central she was to the survival of the Gonzaga regime during Louis XII’s early reign.
Development and initial psychometric evaluation of a radiotherapy‐related symptom assessment tool, based on data from patients with brain tumours undergoing proton beam therapy
Authors: Langegård Ulrica , Fransson Per , Johansson Birgitta , Ohlsson‐Nevo Emma , Sjövall Katarina , Ahlberg Karin ,   The Proton Care Study Group
Published: July 2020

Background

Currently, no available tool easily and effectively measures both the frequency, intensity and distress of symptoms among patients receiving radiotherapy. A core symptom set (fatigue, insomnia, pain, appetite loss, cognitive problems, anxiety, nausea, depression, constipation, diarrhoea and skin reaction) has been identified and assessed across oncology research to better understand the pattern of symptoms and treatment side effects.

Aim

The aim was to develop a tool measuring the multiple‐symptom experience in patients undergoing radiotherapy and evaluate its psychometric properties (validity, reliability and responsiveness).

Design

This study has a prospective, longitudinal and quantitative design.

Methods

We developed a patient‐reported outcome questionnaire, the Radiotherapy‐Related Symptoms Assessment Scale to assess the frequency, intensity and distress associated with symptoms. Patients (n = 175) with brain tumours undergoing proton beam therapy completed the Radiotherapy‐Related Symptoms Assessment Scale and the health‐related quality of life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐C30) during treatment. We assessed the validity, reliability and responsiveness of the Radiotherapy‐Related Symptoms Assessment Scale and evaluated the validity against QLQ‐C30.

Results

There were significant questionnaire–questionnaire correlations regarding selected items, primarily fatigue, insomnia and pain, indicating satisfactory criterion‐related validity. The Radiotherapy‐Related Symptoms Assessment Scale had fair to good retest reliability.

Conclusion

The Radiotherapy‐Related Symptoms Assessment Scale is a valid instrument for assessing symptom intensity and distress in patients with brain tumour undergoing PBT, with psychometric properties within the expected range. The Radiotherapy‐Related Symptoms Assessment Scale provides nurses with substantial information on symptom experience but requires little effort from the patient. Additional studies are required to further assess the psychometric properties in patients with different cancer diagnoses receiving conventional radiotherapy.
Students’ individual interest in physical education: Development and validation of a questionnaire
Authors: Roure Cédric , Lentillon‐Kaestner Vanessa , Pasco Denis
Published: July 2020

Identifying the specificity of students’ individual interest in physical education is necessary to capture the different facets of this construct. In contrast to existing questionnaires in education which assess the multidimensionality of individual interest, the current scale used in physical education consists of a single‐item measurement which rates students’ individual interest for multiple physical activities taught during lessons. Even if this single‐item rating provides a basis for classifying interest relative to others, it does not provide information about the nature and internal components of individual interest. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop a valid and reliable questionnaire measuring the multidimensionality of students’ individual interest in physical education. Four stages were followed: (1) the development of a preliminary version based on the findings of a literature review on individual interest and a committee process validation; (2) a first study conducted on 481 secondary school students to establish the factor structure, and internal reliability of this questionnaire; (3) a second study based on 243 secondary school students to confirm its factor structure and to test its temporal stability; and finally, (4) a third study with 253 students to test its concurrent validity. The final form of the questionnaire consists of a three‐factor structure based on 14 items that measure students’ individual interest in physical education: positive affect and willingness to reengage (five items), stored utility value (four items), and stored attainment value and knowledge‐seeking intentions (five items).
Development and psychometric evaluation of the U.S. English Wound‐QoL questionnaire to assess health‐related quality of life in people with chronic wounds
Authors: Sommer Rachel , von Stülpnagel Catharina C. , Fife Caroline E. , Blasingame Mandy , Anders Melissa J. , Thompson Debi , Augustin Matthias , da Silva Neuza , Blome Christine
Published: July 2020

People with chronic wounds perceive an impaired health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). For the assessment of HRQoL, valid instruments are needed. Therefore, the Wound‐QoL questionnaire was originally developed and psychometrically validated for use in Germany. As the Wound‐QoL is to be used in numerous countries, international versions are required. Therefore, this study aimed to psychometrically validate the U.S. English Wound‐QoL version. Upon translation into U.S. English, psychometric testing was performed based on cross‐sectional data deriving from the U.S. Wound Registry. Besides descriptive statistics, internal consistency and concurrent validity were tested. In addition, a graded response model was used. The sample consisted of 599 people with chronic wounds of different etiologies. Participants were between 18 and 95 years old, mean age was 63.7 (SD = 15.9) years. Gender was distributed almost equally, with 47.4% female patients. High internal consistency, low floor and ceiling effects of the subscales could be largely confirmed. The internal consistency of the global score was excellent, with α > .9. Concurrent validity between the Wound‐QoL and pain, the surface area of the largest wound, total surface area, and total number of active wounds could be confirmed. In contrast, item response theory (IRT) analyses could not fully confirm the factorial model underlying the Wound‐QoL subscales. Furthermore, the items regarding smell and discharge and the items on problems with hitting the wound against something, climbing stairs and feeling dependent on help from others showed a low item information in their belonging dimensions. In conclusion, the newly validated Wound‐QoL is available for HRQoL measurement in people with chronic wounds in the United States. It showed good psychometric properties, demonstrating its reliability and validity. Therefore, the instrument may be used to assess HRQoL in clinical practice. However, IRT analyses showed that the instrument may benefit from future refinement.
Study on Altitude Adaptability of a Turbocharged Off-Road Diesel Engine
Authors: Huang Fenlian , Lei Jilin , Xin Qianfan
Published: July 2020

This paper investigates the operating characteristics of an off-road diesel engine to enhance its power performance in plateau. First, the impacts of altitude on the power, fuel economy, and emissions characteristics were analyzed by a bench test. Second, the combustion and overall performance working at different altitudes were studied by three-dimensional numerical simulation, including the relationship between fuel injection parameters and engine performance. The results showed that altitude significantly affects the performance of the off-road diesel engine. As the altitude increased from 0 m to 2000 m, the engine power decreased as much as 4.3%, and the brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) increased as much as 6%. At the peak torque condition, the intake manifold boost pressure and the exhaust manifold pressure both reduced with a rise of altitude, while the intake and exhaust manifold temperatures both increased with a rise of altitude. Finally, after comparing the in-cylinder flow conditions and combustion characteristics given by six combustion chamber designs that have different shrinkage ratios, the engine performance at 4000 m altitude with five different fuel spray angles were further optimized. The engine rated power increased by 8.2% when the shrinkage ratio was 7.28% and the fuel spray angle was 150 deg at the 4000 m altitude.
Influences of low-frequency energy and testing environment on annoyance responses to supersonic aircraft noise when heard indoors
Authors: Carr Daniel , Davies Patricia , Loubeau Alexandra , Rathsam Jonathan , Klos Jacob
Published: July 2020

The research reported is part of a larger effort to develop models to predict community response to transient sounds, including sonic booms. Such models can be used along with aircraft sound predictions to guide the design of supersonic aircraft to produce generally acceptable sounds. A test was conducted to examine the influence of low frequencies on people's responses to recorded and simulated booms and other environmental transients, heard indoors over earphones. The results of this test and a companion test conducted in a sonic boom simulator were compared to see if the playback environment affected responses. Annoyance models were also examined. E-weighted Sound Exposure level (ESEL) was the sound metric most highly correlated to mean annoyance with B-weighted Sound Exposure Level (BSEL) and Perceived Level performing similarly. Predictions were improved by including Heaviness, Duration, and rate of change of Loudness in models with a loudness metric. Models were also estimated by using the average responses from both tests and metrics generated from outdoor versions of the sounds. These models also produced accurate annoyance predictions. BSEL was the best single-metric predictor, with ESEL close behind. Including Heaviness, Duration, and rate of change of Loudness resulted in R2 values as high as 0.90.
Respiratory Function and Upper Extremity Functional Activity Performance in People With Dementia: A Shout for Attention
Authors: Paixão Cátia , Tavares Ana , Marques Alda
Published: July 2020

The aim of this study was to explore respiratory function and upper extremity functional activity in people with dementia (PWD) and the associations between these variables and cognitive function (n = 22 institutionalized PWD, 28 community-dwelling PWD, and 26 healthy older people). All measures were significantly lower in PWD who live in an institution, such as a nursing home or long-term care facility or who attend adult daycare than PWD who live in a community dwelling . The values from these two groups were significantly lower than those from healthy older people. Moderate to high negative correlations between upper extremity functional activity and respiratory function (−.73 < rs < −.49) and cognitive function (rs = −.83), and between cognitive function and respiratory function (−.74 < rs < −.58) were identified (p < .001). When adjusted for cognitive function (−.38 < rs < −.29; p < .05), the association between upper limb functional activity and respiratory function decreased. The decline demonstrates the importance of physical activity and cognitive and respiratory function in PWD.