bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ESG in credit ratings and the impact on financial markets
Authors: Kiesel Florian , Lücke Felix
Published: May 2019

This study examines environment, social, governance (ESG) consideration in rating reports published by credit rating agencies. 3,719 Moody's credit rating reports between 2004 and 2015 are examined and the ESG consideration is analyzed using a latent dirichlet allocation (LDA) approach. We further analyze the stock returns and credit default swap (CDS) spread changes to check whether ESG consideration has an effect on the capital market reactions. We find a small but present consideration of ESG in rating decisions. Within ESG, corporate governance plays the most important role. Moreover, the results reveal that ESG consideration is a significant determinant in the stock return and CDS spread around the rating announcement. We find that all ESG criteria are important for equity and debt investors.
Evolution of ASPM coding variation in apes and associations with brain structure in chimpanzees
Authors: Singh Sheel V. , Staes Nicky , Guevara Elaine E. , Schapiro Steven J. , Ely John J. , Hopkins William D. , Sherwood Chet C. , Bradley Brenda J.
Published: May 2019

Studying genetic mechanisms underlying primate brain morphology can provide insight into the evolution of human brain structure and cognition. In humans, loss‐of‐function mutations in the gene coding for ASPM (Abnormal Spindle Microtubule Assembly) have been associated with primary microcephaly, which is defined by a significantly reduced brain volume, intellectual disability and delayed development. However, less is known about the effects of common ASPM variation in humans and other primates. In this study, we characterized the degree of coding variation at ASPM in a large sample of chimpanzees (N = 241), and examined potential associations between genotype and various measures of brain morphology. We identified and genotyped five non‐synonymous polymorphisms in exons 3 (V588G), 18 (Q2772K, K2796E, C2811Y) and 27 (I3427V). Using T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging of brains, we measured total brain volume, cerebral gray and white matter volume, cerebral ventricular volume, and cortical surface area in the same chimpanzees. We found a potential association between ASPM V588G genotype and cerebral ventricular volume but not with the other measures. Additionally, we found that chimpanzee, bonobo, and human lineages each independently show a signature of accelerated ASPM protein evolution. Overall, our results suggest the potential effects of ASPM variation on cerebral cortical development, and emphasize the need for further functional studies. These results are the first evidence suggesting ASPM variation might play a role in shaping natural variation in brain structure in nonhuman primates.
The importance of groundwater flow to the formation of modern thrombolitic microbialites
Authors: Warden John G. , Coshell Lee , Rosen Michael R. , Breecker Daniel O. , Ruthrof Katinka X. , Omelon Christopher R.
Published: May 2019

Modern microbialites are often located within groundwater discharge zones, yet the role of groundwater in microbialite accretion has yet to be resolved. To understand relationships between groundwater, microbialites, and associated microbial communities, we quantified and characterized groundwater flow and chemistry in active thrombolitic microbialites in Lake Clifton, Western Australia, and compared these observations to inactive thrombolites and lakebed sediments. Groundwater flows upward through an interconnected network of pores within the microstructure of active thrombolites, discharging directly from thrombolite heads into the lake. This upwelling groundwater is fresher than lake water and is hypothesized to support microbial mat growth by reducing salinity and providing limiting nutrients in an osmotically stressful and oligotrophic habitat. This is in contrast to inactive thrombolites that show no evidence of microbial mat colonization and are infiltrated by hypersaline lake water. Groundwater discharge through active thrombolites contrasts with the surrounding lakebed, where hypersaline lake water flows downward through sandy sediments at very low rates. Based on an appreciation for the role of microorganisms in thrombolite accretion, our findings suggest conditions favorable to thrombolite formation still exist in certain locations of Lake Clifton despite increasing lake water salinity. This study is the first to characterize groundwater flow rates, paths, and chemistry within a microbialite‐forming environment and provides new insight into how groundwater can support microbial mats believed to contribute to microbialite formation in modern and ancient environments.
Haemophilia home care: A qualitative evaluation study of the Be Involved infusion program
Authors: Rossnagel Emma , Oliffe John L. , Jackson Yanina , Bartholomew Claude
Published: May 2019

Introduction

In Canada, patients with haemophilia can receive health care through a limited number of specialized haemophilia treatment centres. Treatment of this X‐linked bleeding disorder through self‐infusion of factor replacement is common; however, some individuals with haemophilia require additional infusion support from medical professionals. While provincially funded outreach clinics and telehealth are available, pharmaceutical companies that supply factor have developed novel home infusion programs wherein registered nurses assist/manage factor administration in the patients’ homes.

Aim

The current qualitative evaluation explored the real‐world effectiveness and impact of the Be Involved (Pfizer Canada) home infusion service, from provider, program end‐user and needs analysis perspectives.

Methods

Qualitative interviews with patients and caregivers who had used Be Involved (n = 7) and Be Involved Staff (n = 8) provided important insights and recommendations for program improvement initiatives. Also included were needs assessments of potential end‐users (n = 11) as a means to making program adjustments.

Results

The inductively derived findings revealed Be Involved as a highly valued, though key specialized service providing significant assistance to a small number of haemophilia patients. Augmenting traditional services, the program was endorsed as easing the burden of haemophilia care, while the Be Involved nurses were affirmed as highly effective and critical to the program's success. A lack of program promotion and awareness was evident – limiting uptake, amid communication and systems delivery challenges.

Conclusions

The current evaluation findings inform our recommendations for, and brief discussion of, the need for stronger promotional strategies and improved communication lines to increase the reach and efficiencies of the Be Involved program.
Effect of sintering duration on the sliding‐wear resistance of 3Y‐TZP dental ceramics
Authors: Alonso Javier , Rodríguez‐Rojas Fernando , Borrero‐López Oscar , Ortiz Angel L. , Guiberteau Fernando
Published: May 2019

Zirconia doped with 3 mol% yttria (3Y‐TZP) is widely employed in prosthetic dentistry. The standard routine in the manufacture of prostheses involves subtractive machining of a commercial presintered block, followed by pressureless sintering up to full densification using one of the heat treatments indicated by the supplier, so as to obtain adequate strength. Usually, however, little information is provided on how these treatments affect the wear resistance. The present work therefore investigated how three sintering cycles of different durations recommended by a commercial supplier affected the microstructure and long‐term degradation in the form of sliding‐wear of the resulting 3Y‐TZP ceramics. It was found that the three cycles essentially resulted in the same wear behavior (ie, wear modes and mechanisms, as well as specific wear rate ~5·10–6 mm3/Nm). The results are analyzed within the framework of existing abrasive wear models, and implications for the manufacture of durable prostheses are discussed.
Weighted activity unit effect: evaluating the cost of diagnosis‐related group coding
Authors: Tan Joanne Y.‐A. , Senko Clare , Hughes Brett , Lwin Zarnie , Bennett Richard , Power John , Thomson Leah
Published: May 2019

Background

Activity‐based funding (ABF) is a means of healthcare reimbursement, where hospitals are allocated funding based on the number and mix of clinical activity. The ABF model is based solely on Australian refined diagnosis‐related group (AR‐DRG) classifications of hospital encounters. Each AR‐DRG is allocated a weighted activity unit (WAU) translating to cost value to determine ongoing funding allocations for each hospital annually.

Aim

We explored cost consequences of AR‐DRG coding variances within our Medical Oncology department over a 6‐month period.

Methods

All inpatient encounters for medical oncology from 1 January to 30 June 2014 were identified and paired with actual AR‐DRG coding sheets submitted by the hospital coders. Inpatient charts were manually reviewed by a Medical Oncology Registrar to capture any changes or additional AR‐DRGs, which were subsequently evaluated for total WAU value variance. Applying 1 WAU = $4676 as per the 2014 Queensland model, cost consequences were calculated.

Results

A total of 116 encounters was identified for 72 patients. Of 116 patients, 95 (81%) had additional diagnoses captured, leading to an AR‐DRG and WAU change in 26 encounters. The total reimbursement variance for this period was $143 404.07. Cost consequences resulted from: (i) use of abbreviations in clinical notes unable to be coded; and (ii) diagnoses not documented despite treatment delivered as per medication charts.

Conclusion

Clinical note documentation ultimately determines the future funding of our healthcare system. Appropriate communication and education of medical staff and hospital coders are vital to ensure precise documentation and accurate AR‐DRG coding for optimal and appropriate reimbursement in this funding model.
Interleukin‐16 aggravates ovalbumin‐induced allergic inflammation by enhancing Th2 and Th17 cytokine production in a mouse model
Authors: Li Chunxia , Dai Jun , Dong Guanjun , Ma Qun , Li Zhihua , Zhang Hui , Yan Fenglian , Zhang Junfeng , Wang Bo , Shi Hui , Zhu Yuzhen , Yao Xiaoying , Si Chuanping , Xiong Huabao
Published: May 2019

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that involves a variety of cytokines and cells. Interleukin‐16 (IL‐16) is highly expressed during allergic airway inflammation and is involved in its development. However, its specific mechanism of action remains unclear. In the present study, we used an animal model of ovalbumin (OVA)‐induced allergic asthma with mice harboring an IL‐16 gene deletion to investigate the role of this cytokine in asthma, in addition to its underlying mechanism. Increased IL‐16 expression was observed during OVA‐induced asthma in C57BL/6J mice. However, when OVA was used to induce asthma in IL‐16−/− mice, a diminished inflammatory reaction, decreased bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) eosinophil numbers, and the suppression of OVA‐specific IgE levels in the serum and BALF were observed. The results also demonstrated decreased levels of T helper type 2 (Th2) and Th17 cytokines upon OVA‐induced asthma in IL‐16−/− mice. Hence, we confirmed that IL‐16 enhances the lung allergic inflammatory response and suggest a mechanism possibly associated with the up‐regulation of IgE and the promotion of Th2 and Th17 cytokine production. This work explored the mechanism underlying the regulation of IL‐16 in asthma and provides a new target for the clinical treatment of asthma.
Sulodexide attenuates endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Shen Danping , Chen Ruiyao , Zhang Lijing , Rao Zhiheng , Ruan Yongxue , Li Lei , Chu Maoping , Zhang Yuanhai
Published: May 2019

Acute myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury causes severe arrhythmias with a high rate of lethality. Extensive research focus on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and its dysfunction which leads to cardiac injury in MI/R Our study evaluated the effects of sulodexide (SDX) on MI/R by establishing MI/R mice models and in vitro oxidative stress models in H9C2 cells. We found that SDX decreases cardiac injury during ischaemia reperfusion and decreased myocardial apoptosis and infarct area, which was paralleled by increased superoxide dismutase and reduced malondialdehyde in mice plasm, increased Bcl‐2 expression, decreased BAX expression in a mouse model of MI/R. In vitro, SDX exerted a protective effect by the suppression of the ER stress which induced by tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) treatment. Both of the in vivo and in vitro effects were involved in the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt signalling pathway. Inhibition of PI3K/Akt pathway by specific inhibitor, LY294002, partially reduced the protective effect of SDX. In short, our results suggested that the cardioprotective role of SDX was related to the suppression of ER stress in mice MI/R models and TBHP‐induced H9C2 cell injury which was through the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway.
Embryonic and larval traits of the temperate damselfish Chromis crusma reveal important similarities with other Pomacentridae throughout the family's thermal range
Authors: Muñoz‐Cordovez Rodrigo , De La Maza Lucas , Pérez‐Matus Alejandro , Carrasco Sergio A.
Published: May 2019

Embryonic development and larval morphology of Chromis crusma was described from five nests sampled between 21 and 25 m depth in central Chile (33°S). From each nest, a set of c. 100 randomly selected eggs were hand‐collected and transported in seawater to the laboratory. Subsets of c. 30 eggs per nest were maintained in 50 ml glass containers at a constant ambient temperature of c. 12°C (range 11.5–12.9°C). Egg length (L) and width (W) and larval notochordal length (LN) were measured from photographs. Geometric morphometric analyses were performed in newly hatched and 1 week old larvae to quantify shape changes. Ellipsoid eggs had an average (mean ± SE) size of 1.12 ± 0.05 mm L and 0.67 ± 0.02 mm W, with volume being similar throughout 15 developmental stages (i.e., ellipsoid‐shaped; 0.27 mm3). Planktonic larvae hatched between 5 and 11 days at 12°C and had a mean LN of 3.13 ± 0.25 mm, a yolk sack volume of 0.03 mm3 and an oil droplet volume of 0.005 mm3. Morphological traits at hatching included: (a) lack of paired fins and jaws; (b) single medial fin fold; (c) lack of eye pigmentation; (d) yolk sac present near anterior tip; (e) melanophores distributed along ventral surface with one pair over the forehead. In order to generate an up‐to‐date summary of developmental traits within Pomacentridae, we reviewed literature on egg development (e.g., shape and number of oil droplets), hatching and larval traits (e.g., morphology, pigmentation patterns). Thirty‐two publications accounting for 35 species were selected, where eggs, embryonic development, hatching and larval traits were found for 26, 21, 24 and 34 species, respectively. In order to evaluate potential phylogenetic and environmental relationships within the early stages of Pomacentridae, cluster analyses (Bray Curtis similarity, group average) were also performed on egg and larval traits of 22 species divided by subfamily (Stegastinae, Chrominae, Abudefdufinae, Pomacentrinae) and thermal ranges (i.e., low: 16.5°C (range: 12–21°C), medium: 24.5°C (range:21–28°C) and high: 27°C (range: 26–28°C)), suggesting that early developmental patterns can be segregated by both temperature and phylogenetic relationships.
Endogenous Growth and Real Effects of Monetary Policy: R&D and Physical Capital Complementarities
Authors: GIL PEDRO MAZEDA , IGLÉSIAS GUSTAVO
Published: May 2019

We study the real long‐run effects of the structural stance of monetary policy and of inflation, in the context of a monetary growth model where R&D is complemented with physical capital accumulation. We look into the effects on a set of real macroeconomic variables that have been of interest to policymakers—the economic growth rate, real interest rate, physical investment rate, capital‐to‐labor ratio, R&D intensity, and velocity of money. These variables have been previously analyzed from the perspective of different, separated, strands of the theoretical and empirical literature. Additionally, we analyze the long‐run relationship between inflation and both the effectiveness of real industrial‐policy shocks and the market structure, assessed namely by average firm size. We present novel cross‐country evidence on the empirical relationship between the latter and long‐run inflation.
Metabolomics‐driven identification of adenosine deaminase as therapeutic target in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Huang Wanqiu , Xu Yazhou , Zhang Yuxin , Zhang Pei , Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Zunjian , Xu Fengguo
Published: May 2019

Neuroinflammation is one of the driving forces of progressive neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The metabolomics approach has been proved highly useful in identifying potential therapeutic targets. Here, to identify inflammation‐relevant treatment targets for PD, mass spectrometry‐based untargeted metabolomics was applied to characterize metabolic changes in the striatum of mice with double‐hit PD induced by lipopolysaccharide plus 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Seven days after the final MPTP administration, metabolites from the purine metabolism pathway, including adenosine, 1‐methyladenosine, adenine, inosine, hypoxanthine, xanthine, xanthosine, and guanosine, were found to be significantly dysregulated. The metabolite–protein interaction network and changes in the concentration ratio of these metabolites indicated that adenosine and adenosine deaminase (ADA; EC 3.5.4.4) were the most promising therapeutic targets and adenosine augmentation might be a rational approach to slow PD progression. These findings were then verified in a subacute MPTP‐induced PD mouse model treated with ADA inhibition alone or in conjunction with antagonism of adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR). Behavioral, biochemical, and immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that ADA inhibition significantly ameliorated the MPTP‐mediated motor disabilities, dopamine depletion, and dopaminergic cell death. Significantly enhanced neuroprotective effects were further observed when the ADA inhibitor was utilized in conjunction with an A2AR antagonist. Together, our study indicated for the first time that ADA inhibitors protected against neurodegeneration induced by the neurotoxin MPTP, and ADA inhibitors in combination with A2AR antagonists showed additive antiparkinsonian effects.

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Relationship Between Masticatory Function Impairment and Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life of Edentulous Patients: An Interventional Study
Authors: Miranda Samille Biasi , Possebon Anna Paula da Rosa , Schuster Alessandra Julie , Marcello‐Machado Raissa Micaella , de Rezende Pinto Luciana , Faot Fernanda
Published: May 2019

Purpose

To investigate the influence of impaired masticatory function on the oral health‐related quality of life of conventional complete denture wearers before and after the transition to implant‐retained mandibular overdentures.

Materials and Methods

Masticatory function and oral health‐related quality of life were evaluated in 40 edentulous patients after 3 months of adaptation to complete dentures and after transition to implant‐retained mandibular overdentures. Masticatory function was evaluated through the swallowing threshold test with a standardized portion of an artificial test food (Optocal) to determine median particle size (×50) and homogenization index (B). After the test, the masticatory function outcomes were used to categorize patients in 2 groups according to chewing performance: (i) satisfactory or (ii) unsatisfactory. The cutoff value for ×50 was based on a preestablished value of 3.68 mm, whereas for the B index, median values were adopted for categorization. The oral health‐related quality of life was analyzed via the Oral Health Impact Profile for Edentulous Adults (OHIP‐EDENT) questionnaire. The Mann‐Whitney test was used to compare masticatory function outcomes and OHIP‐EDENT scores, and associations were checked using the Spearman correlation test and multiple linear regression.

Results

Masticatory function was significantly correlated with functional limitation (p = 0.02) and physical disability (p = 0.04) for complete denture wearers with unsatisfactory masticatory function. After the transition to implant‐retained mandibular overdentures, only the psychological discomfort domain (p = 0.02) was influenced by the masticatory function category. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that only the functional limitation domain (p < 0.001) of the complete denture wearers was associated with masticatory function outcomes.

Conclusions

Implant‐retained mandibular overdentures eliminate the problems that lead to functional limitations, consequently improving masticatory function and oral health‐related quality of life of these individuals; however, patients with unsatisfactory masticatory function after transition to implant‐retained mandibular overdentures still experience more psychological discomfort.
Blocking the solution: Social representations of threats and (non)dialogue with alternative representations in Greek‐Cypriot newspapers during peace negotiations
Authors: Avraamidou Maria , Psaltis Charis
Published: May 2019

This paper first identifies representations of threats in Greek‐Cypriot newspapers related to the negotiations for a Cyprus settlement. Then, it identifies how alternative representations to these core representations of threats are managed through the use of a number of semantic barriers. Therefore, it problematizes the role (function) that such representations of threats play in undermining the potential for transformative dialogue in a post‐conflict and divided country in need of conflict transformation. Focus is on the editorials of two newspapers during a four‐month period before the collapse of the July 2017 Cyprus peace talks. Both were suspicious and polemic vis‐à‐vis the said negotiations but used different strategies to oppose them. Simerini convened recurrently threats such as Turkification, state dissolution and threats against Hellenism. Phileleftheros focused on the issue of security drawing red lines on various dossiers under discussion in the negotiations. The paper contributes to the theoretical debate of the relationship between social representations and identities and the role of threats and historical narratives in undermining transformative dialogue through the use of semantic barriers.
The Impact of Instruction and Out‐of‐School Exposure to Foreign Language Input on Learners’ Vocabulary Knowledge in Two Languages
Authors: Peters Elke , Noreillie Ann‐Sophie , Heylen Kris , Bulté Bram , Desmet Piet
Published: May 2019

This cross‐sectional study investigated the impact of length of instruction, out‐of‐school exposure to foreign language input, and gender on learners’ receptive vocabulary knowledge in two foreign languages: French (first foreign language) and English (second foreign language). The findings suggest that, although length of instruction correlated positively with vocabulary knowledge in English and French, the gains remained modest when out‐of‐school exposure to the foreign language input was limited. Despite fewer years of English instruction, participants’ vocabulary knowledge in English was considerably larger than their French vocabulary knowledge, which can be explained by their large amounts of out‐of‐school exposure to English language input. Participants’ online activities in particular had a positive effect on their vocabulary knowledge in English. Although gender influenced participants’ engagement with online activities in English, gender did not have a direct effect on their vocabulary knowledge, as the structural equation modeling analysis showed.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded an Open Materials badge. The test materials are publicly accessible via the IRIS database at https://www.iris-database.org: The English VocabLab test (https://www.iris-database.org/iris/app/home/detail?id=york%3a933919) and The French VocabLab test (https://www.iris-database.Org/iris/app/home/detail?id=york%3a933777). Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.
Shining light on the alphaproteobacterial general stress response
Authors: Dikiy Igor , Gardner Kevin H.
Published: May 2019

The general stress response (GSR) allows many bacterial species to react to myriad different stressors. In Alphaproteobacteria, this signaling pathway proceeds through the partner‐switching PhyR‐EcfG sigma‐factor mechanism and is involved in multiple life processes, including virulence in Brucella abortus. To date, details of the alphaproteobacterial GSR signaling pathway have been determined using genetic and biochemical work on a diverse set of species distributed throughout the clade. Fiebig and co‐workers establish Erythrobacter litoralis DSM 8509 as a genetically tractable lab strain and use it to both directly and indirectly delineate photoresponsive GSR pathways mediated by multiple HWE/HisKA_2 histidine kinases. The existence of a new phototrophic lab strain allows researchers to compare the GSR across different Alphaproteobacteria, as well as study the interplay between the GSR and phototrophy. Additionally, the discovery of new HWE/HisKA_2 kinases regulating the GSR poses new questions about how different stimuli feed into this widespread stress pathway.
Down‐regulation of HTR1A‐modulated ACC activation contributes to stress‐induced visceral hyperalgesia in rats
Authors: Yi Lisha , Sun Huihui , Zhang Haiqin , Chen Ying , Zhou Lu , Xuan Liqian , Zhan Tingting , Jiang Yuanxi , Xu Shuchang
Published: May 2019

Background

Long‐term stress was suggested to cause visceral hypersensitivity and promote functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). Some brain regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) may play an important role for generating visceral hypersensitivity; however, its molecular mechanisms are not clear. This study aimed to explore the role of 5‐HT1A receptors (HTR1As) in activating ACC and corresponding mechanism, in stress‐induced visceral hyperalgesia rats.

Methods

The VH rat model was established by chronic water avoidance stress (WAS), and the visceral sensitivity was measured by electromyogram. Rat's anxiety‐like behaviors were evaluated by the open field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze (EPM). To overexpress or down‐regulate HTR1A expression, HTR1A‐specific lentivirus expressing the green fluorescent protein was administered into the ACC. Protein expression levels were observed by Western blot.

Results

The protein expression of HTR1A in bilateral ACC in WAS group was significantly lower than that in normal control (NC) and Sham‐WAS groups, while the levels of c‐fos in the ACC of WAS rats were significantly higher. Down‐regulation of HTR1As could induce VH in control rats with the increased expression of c‐fos, p‐ERK, and p‐Akt in ACC, while up‐regulation of HTR1As in the ACC could partly inhibit ACC sensitization and stress‐induced visceral hyperalgesia.

Conclusions & Inferences

Down‐regulation of HTR1As modulates ACC activation probably through activating ERK and Akt pathways, thus contributes to the formation of stress‐induced visceral hyperalgesia.
PI 3‐kinase‐ and ERK‐MAPK‐dependent mechanisms underlie Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1‐mediated activation of Sprague Dawley colonic myenteric neurons
Authors: O'Brien Rebecca , Buckley Maria M. , Kelliher Amy , O'Malley Dervla
Published: May 2019

Background

Glucagon‐like peptide (GLP‐1) can modify colonic function, with beneficial effects reported in the functional bowel disorder, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS pathophysiology is characterized by hyper‐activation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal stress axis and altered microbial profiles. This study aims to characterize the neuronal and functional effects of GLP‐1 in healthy rat colons to aid understanding of its beneficial effects in moderating bowel dysfunction.

Methods

Immunofluorescent and calcium imaging of myenteric neurons prepared from Sprague Dawley rat colons was carried out to elucidate the neuromodulatory actions of the GLP‐1 receptor agonist, exendin‐4 (Ex‐4). Colonic contractile activity was assessed using organ bath physiological recordings.

Key results

Ex‐4 induced an elevation of intracellular calcium arising from store release and influx via voltage‐gated calcium channels. Ex‐4 activated both ERK‐MAPK and PI 3‐kinase signaling cascades. Neuronal activation was found to underlie suppression of contractile activity in colonic circular muscle. Although the stress hormone, corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) potentiated the neuronal response to Ex‐4, and the functional effects of Ex‐4 on colonic circular muscle activity were not altered.

Conclusions and inferences

Ex‐4 evoked neurally regulated suppression of rat colonic circular muscle activity. In myenteric neurons, the neurostimulatory effects of Ex‐4 were dependent upon activation of PI 3‐kinase and ERK‐MAPK signaling cascades. No further change in circular muscle function was noted in the presence of CRF suggesting that stress does not impact on colonic function in health. Further studies in a model of IBS are needed to determine whether mechanisms are modified in the context of bowel dysfunction.
Correlation between the motility of the proximal antrum and the high‐frequency power of heart rate variability in freely moving rats
Authors: Meister Alissa L. , Jiang Yanyan , Doheny Kim K. , Travagli R. Alberto
Published: May 2019

Background

Cardiac vagal tone can be monitored non‐invasively via electrocardiogram measurements of the high‐frequency power spectrum of heart rate variability (HF‐HRV). Vagal inputs to the upper GI tract are cumbersome to measure non‐invasively. Although cardiac and GI vagal outputs arise from distinct brainstem nuclei, the nucleus ambiguus, and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, respectively, we aim to test the hypotheses that in freely moving rats HF‐HRV power is correlated to proximal antral motility and can be altered by high levels of circulating estrogen and vagal‐selective treatments known to affect antral motility.

Methods

Male and female Sprague‐Dawley rats were implanted with a miniaturized strain gauge on the proximal gastric antrum and ECG electrodes to collect simultaneous antral motility and electrocardiogram. After recovery, male rats underwent baseline recordings before and after administration of saline (N = 8), cholecystokinin (CCK; N = 7), ghrelin (N = 6), or food (N = 6). Female rats (N = 6) underwent twice‐daily recordings to determine baseline correlations during estrous cycle stages.

Key Results

There was a significant positive correlation between HF‐HRV and proximal antral motility at baseline in males and females with low, but not high, estrogen levels. In male rats, the significant positive correlation was maintained following CCK, but not ghrelin or food administration.

Conclusions and Inferences

Our data suggest that in rodents, HF‐HRV positively correlates to proximal antral motility at baseline conditions in males and low‐estrogen females or following interventions, such as CCK, known to affect vagal tone. This correlation is not observed when antral motility is influenced by more complex events.
Parts greater than their sum: randomized controlled trial testing partitioned incentives to increase cancer screening
Authors: Nisa Claudia F. , Bélanger Jocelyn J. , Schumpe Birga M.
Published: May 2019

Promoting healthy behavior is a challenge for public health officials, especially in the context of asking patients to participate in preventive cancer screenings. Small financial incentives are sometimes used, but there is a little scientific basis to support a compelling description of the best‐practice implementation of such incentives. We present a simple behavioral strategy based on mental accounting from prospect theory that maximizes the impact of incentives with no additional cost. We show how the partition of one incentive into two smaller incentives of equivalent total amount produces substantial behavioral changes, demonstrated in the context of colorectal cancer screening. In a randomized controlled trial, eligible patients aged 50−74 (n = 1652 patients) were allocated to receive either one €10 incentive (upon completion of screening) or two €5 incentives (at the beginning and at the end of screening). We show that cancer screening rates were dramatically increased by partitioning the financial incentive (61.1%), compared with a single installment at the end (41.4%). These results support the hedonic editing hypothesis from prospect theory, and underline the importance of implementing theoretically grounded healthcare interventions. Our results suggest that, when patient incentives are feasible, healthcare procedures should be framed as multistage events with smaller incentives offered at multiple points in time.
Exploring compassionate attributes and skills among individuals participating in compassion‐focused therapy for enhancing well‐being
Authors: Sommers‐Spijkerman Marion , Elfrink Teuntje R. , Drossaert Constance H. C. , Schreurs Karlein M. G. , Bohlmeijer Ernst T.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

The conceptual approach of compassion underlying compassion‐focused therapy (CFT) is based on theoretical rather than empirical grounds. The aim of the present study was to seek empirical support for components of compassion as outlined in the theoretical model underpinningCFT, and to explore which components, if any, matter most for improving well‐being.

Design

A sequential exploratory mixed methods design was employed.

Methods

Alongside a randomized controlled trial (RCT), we systematically examined 625 emails sent by 87RCTparticipants to five counsellors during the course of a well‐being enhancingCFTself‐help intervention, to identify theoretically based compassionate attributes and skills. Next, in a quantitative analysis, we compared participants who did and did not show clinically relevant improvement on well‐being with regard to the occurrence of compassionate attributes and skills.

Results

Although the theoretical model of compassion integral toCFTwas largely supported by the emails, it was slightly simplified so as to better fit the data. The adjusted model comprises five compassionate attributes (i.e., care for well‐being, sensitivity, empathy, distress tolerance, and common humanity) and four compassionate skills (i.e., compassionate attention, reasoning, behaviour, and feeling/sensation). Three illustrative cases are presented to contribute to a better understanding of fundamental components of compassion. Quantitative analyses indicate that participants showing clinically relevant improvement on well‐being expressed significantly more compassionate feeling/sensation compared to those who did not.

Conclusions

We found preliminary evidence for the conceptualization of compassion underlyingCFT. Compassionate feeling/sensation bears particular interest when well‐being is the intended outcome ofCFT.

Practitioner points

Individuals participating in compassion‐focused therapy for enhancing well‐being experience a wide range of compassionate attributes and skills.

Compassion‐focused therapy may instigate well‐being if a client is able to experience compassionate feeling/sensation.
Immunophenotype of pediatric‐onset mastocytosis does not correlate with clinical course
Authors: Greenberger Shoshana , Landov Hagai , Confino Yitzhak , Vaknine Hananya , Avivi Camila , Baum Sharon , Barzilai Aviv
Published: May 2019

Background

Pediatric mastocytosis differs from adult mastocytosis in its presentation and clinical course. However, the data regarding the immunophenotypic characterization of mast cells in children are limited. Our objective was to evaluate the immunophenotype of mast cells in pediatric mastocytosis and correlate it with the clinical course.

Methods

Biopsy specimens of children with cutaneous mastocytosis were retrieved from the institutions of pathology and were stained for CD25, CD2, and CD30. The percentage of mast cells and the staining intensity were correlated with the clinical data.

Results

Twenty‐five biopsy specimens were included in the study. Patients’ average age was 15.4 at presentation and 37.5 months at biopsy performance. Clinical presentations included maculopapular cutaneous mastocytosis in 79% and mastocytoma in 21% of cases. CD25, CD2, and CD30 were positive in 60%, 44%, and 84% of the biopsy specimens, respectively. The staining score was significantly higher for CD30 as compared to those for CD25 and CD2 (P = 0.02). No correlation was found between the immunophenotype and the clinical form or course of disease.

Conclusions

Our results confirm that CD30 is a sensitive marker for pediatric‐onset mastocytosis. Nevertheless, its expression does not correlate with clinical subtype or clinical course. The sensitivity of CD25 is higher than that of CD2 in skin lesions.
God Regulates the Church, Even If He Doesn't – Wittgensteinian Philosophy of Religion and Realism
Authors: Kroesbergen Hermen
Published: May 2019

Far from being non‐realism or antirealism, Wittgensteinian philosophy of religion shows the meaning of practices within which the whole weight is in the picture that God speaks. ‘The authority of the community of believers determines what is the word of God’ does not contradict ‘God himself determines what is the word of God.’ As is shown by an example of Peter Winch, the distinction between inside and outside perspectives on religious practices is already given in those practices themselves. Wittgensteinian philosophy of religion does justice to the independent reality of God, without the adjustments proposed by Stephen Mulhall and Andrew Moore.
Abnormal neural responses to harmonic syntactic structures in congenital amusia
Authors: Zhou Linshu , Liu Fang , Jiang Jun , Jiang Hanyuan , Jiang Cunmei
Published: May 2019

In music, harmonic syntactic structures are organized hierarchically through local and long‐distance dependencies. This study investigated whether congenital amusia, a neurodevelopmental disorder of pitch perception, is associated with impaired processing of harmonic syntactic structures. For stimuli, we used harmonic sequences containing two phrases, where the first phrase ended with a half cadence and the second with an authentic cadence. In Experiment 1, we manipulated the ending chord of the authentic cadence to be either syntactically regular or irregular based on local dependencies. Sixteen amusics and 16 controls judged the expectedness of these chords while their EEG waveforms were recorded. In comparison to the regular endings, irregular endings elicited an ERAN, an N5, and a late positive component in controls but not in amusics, indicating that amusics were impaired in processing local syntactic dependencies. In Experiment 2, we manipulated the half cadence of the harmonic sequences to either adhere to or violate long‐distance syntactic dependencies. In response to irregular harmonic sequences, an ERAN‐like component and an N5 were elicited in controls but not in amusics, suggesting that amusics were impaired in processing long‐distance syntactic dependencies. Furthermore, for controls, the neural processing of local and long‐distance syntactic dependencies was correlated at the later integration stage but not at the early detection stage. These findings indicate that amusia is associated with impairment in the detection and integration of local and long‐distance syntactic violations. The implications of these findings in terms of hierarchical music‐syntactic processing are discussed.
The Babylonian Talmud in its cultural context
Authors: Goldstone Matthew
Published: May 2019

The Babylonian Talmud is a foundational work for the development of Jewish law and a centerpiece for the study of rabbinic literature. One of the fastest growing trends in the academic study of the Talmud is the contextualization of this text against the background of Greco–Roman, Sasaniageneration of Talmudic studiesn Persian, and Zoroastrian, as well as Syriac and Christian works. This article surveys the history of the study of the Babylonian Talmud in light of a variety of cultural contexts and provides a close look at some of the major products of this line of research.
Auto‐titration of EPAP during NIV: A better night's sleep?
Authors: Suh Eui‐Sik , Murphy Patrick Brian
Published: May 2019

See related Article
Intraoperative and major postoperative complications and survival of dogs undergoing surgical management of epiglottic retroversion: 50 dogs (2003‐2017)
Authors: Mullins Ronan A. , Stanley Bryden J. , Flanders James A. , López Pablo Pérez , Collivignarelli Francesco , Doyle Ronan S. , Schuenemann Riccarda , Oechtering Gerhard , Steffey Michele A. , Lipscomb Victoria J. , Hardie Robert J. , Kirby Barbara M. , McAlinden Aidan B.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To report intraoperative and major postoperative complications in dogs treated surgically for epiglottic retroversion (ER), compare the incidence of major postoperative complications between procedures, and report survival of surgically treated dogs.

Study design

Multi‐institutional retrospective study.

Sample population

Fifty dogs treated with 78 procedures.

Methods

Medical records of dogs diagnosed and surgically treated for ER from 2003 to 2017 at 11 institutions were reviewed. Complications were divided into intraoperative and major postoperative complications.

Results

Intraoperative complications occurred during 2 of 78 (2.6%) procedures. Thirty‐six major postoperative complications were documented in 22 dogs after 36 of 74 (48.7%) procedures. Postoperative complications occurred after 7 of 12 (58.3%) nonincisional epiglottopexy, 23 of 43 (53.5%) incisional epiglottopexy, 2 of 4 (50%) partial epiglottectomy, 2 of 12 (16.7%) subtotal epiglottectomy, and 2 of 3 (66.7%) other surgical procedures. Epiglottopexy failure was the most common major postoperative complication. The incidence of major postoperative complications did not differ between procedures (P = .1239), although, when combined, epiglottopexy procedures (30/55) had a higher incidence of complications than epiglottectomy procedures (4/16; P = .048). Thirty (60%) dogs were alive at a median of 928 days (range, 114‐2805), 8 (16%) were lost to follow‐up after 411 days (range, 43‐1158), and 12 (24%) were dead/euthanized after 301.5 days (range, 3‐1212). Median survival time was not reached after a median of 716 days.

Conclusion

Although intraoperative complications were uncommon, major postoperative complications were common, especially after epiglottopexy procedures.

Clinical significance

Although surgical treatment of ER is associated with a high rate of major postoperative complications, especially epiglottopexy procedures, long‐term survival can be achieved.
Feasibility of open‐chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation through a transdiaphragmatic approach in dogs
Authors: Jack Malcolm W. , Wierenga Janelle R. , Bridges Janis P. , Baltzer Wendy I. , Crosse Katherine R.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To describe and evaluate the feasibility of a transdiaphragmatic (TD) approach for open‐chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation (OCCPR) as an alternative to a traditional lateral thoracotomy (LT) in a canine cadaver model.

Study design

Randomized noninferiority ex vivo study.

Animals

Fourteen canine cadavers weighing 17.4–30.2 kg.

Methods

An LT and a TD approach to the heart were performed in each cadaver. The order of procedures as well as an assignment to specific operators were randomized before starting the study. Data recorded included the time between incision and initiation of cardiac compressions; time between initiation of the first suture placement and closure of the intrapleural space; time between initiation of the first suture placement and final skin suture; trauma to pulmonary, cardiac, hepatic and neurovascular structures; distance between the caval foramen and diaphragmatic incision; the intercostal space entered during LT; and appropriate closure.

Results

The mean time between incision and initiation of cardiac compressions for the TD approach (85 ± 35 seconds) was noninferior to the LT (84 ± 28 seconds). The pleural space was closed faster after the TD approach (531 ± 276 seconds) than after the lateral approach (817 ± 294 seconds, P = .03). Total duration of closure did not differ between techniques (P = .11). There was no difference between the complication rates of each approach.

Conclusion

The TD approach did not prolong the procedure or increase the complication rate compared with an LT.

Clinical significance

This study provides evidence to support additional investigation of the TD approach for OCCPR to determine its efficacy and safety in live animals.
The Iranian Political Sphere
Authors: Sternfeld Lior B.
Published: May 2019

Chapter 2 examines the politicization of Jews in Iran during World War II and through the early 1950s. Traditional historiography distances Jews from politics in Iran. When mentioned at all, Jewish political activity usually references support of the Shah, especially in relation to his close alliance with Israel. However, this chapter argues that political activism became a means for Iranian Jews to impact their future role and sociopolitical position in Iran. Many Jews were adamant supporters and members of the Tudeh, the Iranian Communist Party, and later engaged in many other political initiatives (such as student movements and intellectual associations). The Tudeh was the most vocal opponent of fascism in the 1940s and arguably the most popular political force in Iran. The Tudeh’s enduring defense of the Jewish community, combined with its message of equality, attracted many young Jews from the Iranian middle and lower middle classes.
Citizenship Across the Life Course
Authors: Ho Elaine Lynn-Ee
Published: May 2019

Analyzing emigration, immigration, and re-migration concurrently, under the framework of contemporaneous migration, directs us toward evaluating what it means to stake claims to different components of citizenship in more than one political community across a migrant’s life course. This chapter examines the way the Mainland Chinese migrants negotiate social reproduction concerns that extend across international borders, their multiple national affiliations, and aspirations for recognition and rights as they journey between China and Canada across the life course. Patterns of re-migration are transforming the social relations of citizenship, re-spatializing rights, obligations, and belonging. Source and destination countries are also reversed during repeated re-migration or transnational sojourning. Transnational sojourning forges citizenship constellations that interlink how migrants understand and experience citizenship across different migration sites.
Multiple Diasporas
Authors: Ho Elaine Lynn-Ee
Published: May 2019

This chapter examines how fraternity and alterity operate in contradictory ways under conditions of contemporaneous migration. While fraternity connotes membership in a national community, alterity refers to the state of being different or the process of “Othering.” The chapter focuses on Singapore as a hub, where concurrent immigration and emigration flows are creating new postcolonial nation-building challenges. Contemporary immigration from China is juxtaposed against past migration from the same ancestral land, generating both co-ethnic and inter-ethnic tensions in a multicultural society. With growing numbers of Singaporeans now moving abroad, Singapore has also become a country that seeks to assert an extraterritorial reach over its emigrants. The multidirectional migration flows evinced in Singapore exemplify how states and national societies invoke temporal framings to prioritize natal ties that are based on selected versions of territorial belonging, memory, and culture.