bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initial Results from a Survey of Two Cohorts of Religious Nonprofits
Authors: Dollhopf Erica J. , Scheitle Christopher P. , McCarthy John D.
Published: March 2015

Next to congregations, religious nonprofit organizations represent one of the most numerous categories of religious organizations in the United States. However, very few data exist that shed light on this sector. In this research note we introduce new data from a survey of two cohorts of religion‐related public charities, also known as 501(c)(3)s or simply as religious nonprofits. We also present initial findings from these data. Specifically, we provide a descriptive profile of religious nonprofits’ founders and how these individuals compare to leaders and founders of other organizations, including congregations. We also provide a descriptive profile of these organizations’ activities, staffing, and structure. This note serves as the first step in what we hope will be an expanding literature on religious nonprofit organizations.
Outreach and Exclusion: Jewish Denominational Marketing in the Early 20th Century
Authors: Ellis Rachel
Published: March 2015

How do religious denominations select potential adherents? Previous literature indicates that market niches direct this decision, yet few studies examine how religious groups determine their niche. Analyzing annual reports and periodicals of Reform and Conservative Jewish organizations from 1910 to 1955, I find that the two denominations responded differently to the mass influx of Jewish immigrants at the turn of the 20th century. Compared to the Conservative organization, which openly welcomed new immigrants, the Reform organization actively chose not to recruit them. Reform statements make it clear that this decision was a result of how working‐class, Eastern European immigrants threatened their American‐centered organizational identity. This finding suggests that religious institutions carefully consider their organizational identity based on nativity, ethnicity, and social class when determining whom to include in their market niche.
The Construction, Preliminary Validation, and Correlates of a Dream‐Specific Scale for Mystical Experience
Authors: Sears Robert E.
Published: March 2015

This study aimed to create and test a dream‐specific version of Hood's Mysticism (M) Scale for the purpose of studying dreaming mystical experience. Factor analysis of the Spiritual Dreams Scale (SDS), based on data collected from 289 adults affiliated with an American evangelical Christian school, clearly resulted in three factors in accordance with prior studies of the M Scale. However, the factor composition of the SDS did not identically resemble the findings of previous studies of the M Scale. Instead, the three‐factor solution suggested a Jamesian interpretation according to which the factors were labeled mystical psychology (passivity), perceived alternate reality (ineffability), and noesis. Scores on the SDS shared significant positive correlations with scores for absorption, dream beliefs, dream recall, and kataphatic prayer. A scale for apophatic prayer failed to share a significant correlation with the SDS.
Sense of Divine Involvement and Sense of Meaning in Life: Religious Tradition as a Contingency
Authors: Jung Jong Hyun
Published: March 2015

This study examines the association between sense of divine involvement and sense of meaning in life. Then it proceeds to assess how this association varies by religious tradition. Using a random and national sample from the 2007 Baylor Religion Survey, this study finds that sense of divine involvement is associated with greater odds of having a sense of meaning in life. In addition, religious affiliation modifies this association. Specifically, the positive association between sense of divine involvement and the odds of having a sense of meaning in life is observed only among evangelical Protestants, mainline Protestants, and Catholics, but not among other religionists and religious nones. I discuss how the results make contributions to knowledge about the link between religious beliefs, religious tradition, and mental health.
Religious Attendance Buffers the Impact of Unemployment on Life Satisfaction: Longitudinal Evidence from Germany
Authors: Lechner Clemens M. , Leopold Thomas
Published: March 2015

This research used longitudinal data from the German Socio‐Economic Panel Study (SOEP) to examine whether religious attendance buffers the impact of unemployment on life satisfaction. Fixed effects models following 5,446 individuals up to three years after the transition to unemployment yielded two central findings. First, higher frequency of religious attendance was associated with smaller drops in life satisfaction. Second, only those who attended religious services on a weekly basis adapted to unemployment. These results suggest that religious attendance on a weekly basis can mitigate the psychological impact of unemployment.
Global patterns of hepatocellular carcinoma management from diagnosis to death: the BRIDGE Study
Authors: Park Joong‐Won , Chen Minshan , Colombo Massimo , Roberts Lewis R. , Schwartz Myron , Chen Pei‐Jer , Kudo Masatoshi , Johnson Philip , Wagner Samuel , Orsini Lucinda S. , Sherman Morris
Published: March 2015

Background & Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The global HCC BRIDGE study was a multiregional, large‐scale, longitudinal cohort study undertaken to improve understanding of real‐life management of patients with HCC, from diagnosis to death.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively from January 2005 to September 2012 by chart reviews of eligible patients newly diagnosed with HCC at participating institutions.

Results

Forty‐two sites in 14 countries contributed final data for 18 031 patients. Asia accounted for 67% of patients, Europe for 20% and North America for 13%. As expected, the most common risk factor was hepatitis C virus in North America, Europe and Japan, and hepatitis B virus in China, South Korea and Taiwan. The most common Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage at diagnosis was C in North America, Europe, China and South Korea, and A in Taiwan and Japan. Across all stages, first HCC treatment was most frequently transarterial chemoembolization in North America, Europe, China and South Korea, percutaneous ethanol injection or radiofrequency ablation in Japan and resection in Taiwan. Survival from first HCC treatment varied significantly by region, with median overall survival not reached for Taiwan and 60, 33, 31, 24 and 23 months for Japan, North America, South Korea, Europe and China respectively (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Initial results from the BRIDGE study confirm previously reported regional trends in patient demographic characteristics and HCC risk factors, document the heterogeneity of treatment approaches across regions/countries and underscore the need for earlier HCC diagnosis worldwide.
Is the adiposity‐associated FTO gene variant related to all‐cause mortality independent of adiposity? Meta‐analysis of data from 169,551 Caucasian adults
Authors: Zimmermann E. , Ängquist L. H. , Mirza S. S. , Zhao J. H. , Chasman D. I. , Fischer K. , Qi Q. , Smith A. V. , Thinggaard M. , Jarczok M. N. , Nalls M. A. , Trompet S. , Timpson N. J. , Schmidt B. , Jackson A. U. , Lyytikäinen L. P. , Verweij N. , Mueller‐Nurasyid M. , Vikström M. , Marques‐Vidal P. , Wong A. , Meidtner K. , Middelberg R. P. , Strawbridge R. J. , Christiansen L. ,   The FTO‐Mortality Collaborating Group, Kyvik K. O. , Hamsten A. , Jääskeläinen T. , Tjønneland A. , Eriksson J. G. , Whitfield J. B. , Boeing H. , Hardy R. , Vollenweider P. , Leander K. , Peters A. , van der Harst P. , Kumari M. , Lehtimäki T. , Meirhaeghe A. , Tuomilehto J. , Jöckel K.‐H. , Ben‐Shlomo Y. , Sattar N. , Baumeister S. E. , Davey Smith G. , Casas J. P. , Houston D. K. , März W. , Christensen K. , Gudnason V. , Hu F. B. , Metspalu A. , Ridker P. M. , Wareham N. J. , Loos R. J. F. , Tiemeier H. , Sonestedt E. , Sørensen T. I. A.
Published: March 2015

Previously, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs9939609, in the FTO gene showed a much stronger association with all‐cause mortality than expected from its association with body mass index (BMI), body fat mass index (FMI) and waist circumference (WC). This finding implies that the SNP has strong pleiotropic effects on adiposity and adiposity‐independent pathological pathways that leads to increased mortality. To investigate this further, we conducted a meta‐analysis of similar data from 34 longitudinal studies including 169,551 adult Caucasians among whom 27,100 died during follow‐up. Linear regression showed that the minor allele of the FTO SNP was associated with greater BMI (n = 169,551; 0.32 kg m−2; 95% CI 0.28–0.32, P < 1 × 10−32), WC (n = 152,631; 0.76 cm; 0.68–0.84, P < 1 × 10−32) and FMI (n = 48,192; 0.17 kg m−2; 0.13–0.22, P = 1.0 × 10−13). Cox proportional hazard regression analyses for mortality showed that the hazards ratio (HR) for the minor allele of the FTO SNPs was 1.02 (1.00–1.04, P = 0.097), but the apparent excess risk was eliminated after adjustment for BMI and WC (HR: 1.00; 0.98–1.03, P = 0.662) and for FMI (HR: 1.00; 0.96–1.04, P = 0.932). In conclusion, this study does not support that the FTO SNP is associated with all‐cause mortality independently of the adiposity phenotypes.
Attentional biases for food cues in overweight and individuals with obesity: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Hendrikse J. J. , Cachia R. L. , Kothe E. J. , McPhie S. , Skouteris H. , Hayden M. J.
Published: March 2015

Obesity rates have increased dramatically in recent decades, and it has proven difficult to treat. An attentional bias towards food cues may be implicated in the aetiology of obesity and influence cravings and food consumption. This review systematically investigated whether attentional biases to food cues exist in overweight/obese compared with healthy weight individuals. Electronic database were searched for relevant papers from inception to October 2014. Only studies reporting food‐related attentional bias between either overweight (body mass index [BMI] 25.0–29.9 kg m−2) or obese (BMI ≥ 30) participants and healthy weight participants (BMI 18.5–24.9) were included. The findings of 19 studies were reported in this review. Results of the literature are suggestive of differences in attentional bias, with all but four studies supporting the notion of enhanced reactivity to food stimuli in overweight individuals and individuals with obesity. This support for attentional bias was observed primarily in studies that employed psychophysiological techniques (i.e. electroencephalogram, eye‐tracking and functional magnetic resonance imaging). Despite the heterogeneous methodology within the featured studies, all measures of attentional bias demonstrated altered cue‐reactivity in individuals with obesity. Considering the theorized implications of attentional biases on obesity pathology, researchers are encouraged to replicate flagship studies to strengthen these inferences.
Comparison of reducing epicardial fat by exercise, diet or bariatric surgery weight loss strategies: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rabkin S. W. , Campbell H.
Published: March 2015

The objectives were to determine whether epicardial fat (EAT) is subject to modification, and whether various strategies accomplish this end point and the relationship between weight loss and EAT. A systematic review of the literature following meta‐analysis guidelines was conducted using the search strategy ‘epicardial fat’ OR ‘epicardial adipose tissue’ AND ‘diet’ OR ‘exercise’ OR ‘bariatric surgery (BS)’ OR ‘change in body weight’ limited to humans. Eleven articles were identified with 12 intervention approaches of which eight studies showed a statistically significant reduction in EAT. A random‐effects meta‐analysis suggests an overall significant reduction of 1.12 standardized units (95% CI = [−1.71, −0.54], P value < 0.01). While there is a large amount of heterogeneity across study groups, a substantial amount of this variability can be accounted for by considering intervention type and change in body mass index (BMI). These variables were incorporated into a random‐effects meta‐regression model. Using this analysis, significant EAT reduction occurred with diet and BS but not with exercise. BMI reductions correlated significantly with EAT reductions for diet‐based interventions, i.e. for some but not all interventions. In conclusion, EAT, a factor that is significantly associated with coronary artery disease, can be modified. The type of intervention, in addition to the amount of weight loss achieved, is predictive of the amount of EAT reduction.
Competition for pollinators and intra‐communal spectral dissimilarity of flowers
Authors: van der Kooi C. J. , Pen I. , Staal M. , Stavenga D. G. , Elzenga J. T. M.
Published: March 2015

Competition for pollinators occurs when, in a community of flowering plants, several simultaneously flowering plant species depend on the same pollinator. Competition for pollinators increases interspecific pollen transfer rates, thereby reducing the number of viable offspring. In order to decrease interspecific pollen transfer, plant species can distinguish themselves from competitors by having a divergent phenotype. Floral colour is an important signalling cue to attract potential pollinators and thus a major aspect of the flower phenotype. In this study, we analysed the amount of spectral dissimilarity of flowers among pollinator‐competing plants in a Dutch nature reserve. We expected pollinator‐competing plants to exhibit more spectral dissimilarity than non‐competing plants. Using flower visitation data of 2 years, we determined the amount of competition for pollinators by different plant species. Plant species that were visited by the same pollinator were considered specialist and competing for that pollinator, whereas plant species visited by a broad array of pollinators were considered non‐competing generalists. We used principal components analysis to quantify floral reflectance, and found evidence for enhanced spectral dissimilarity among plant species within specialist pollinator guilds (i.e. groups of plant species competing for the same pollinator). This is the first study that examined intra‐communal dissimilarity in floral reflectance with a focus on the pollination system.
Time series assessment on landslide occurrences in an area undergoing development
Authors: Simon Norbert , Crozier Michael , de Roiste Mairead , Rafek Abdul Ghani , Roslee Rodeano
Published: March 2015

This study assesses the influence of development on landslide occurrences in a rapidly developing area, Kota Kinabalu in Sabah Malaysia, across three assessment years (1978, 1994 and 2010). Two development indicators, land use and road density, were used to measure the influence of development on landslide occurrence. Land use was classified into four categories (barren, forest, developed and other), and road density was classified into low (< 50 m/40 000 m2), moderate (50–150 m/40 000 m2) and high (> 150 m/40 000 m2). Landslide density analysis was used to calculate the concentration of landslide for the different land use and road density categories. The number of landslides in developed areas increased from 19 landslides/100 km2 in 1978, to 29 landslides/100 km2 in 1994 and to 50 landslides/100 km2 in 2010, mirroring an increase in land use for development purposes from 8 per cent in 1978 to 27 per cent in 2010. Landslide density also gradually increased in the high road density class from 10 landslides/100 km2 in 1978, to 30 landslides/100 km2 in 1994 and 62 landslides/100 km2 in 2010. These results show that road construction activities influence landslide occurrences.
Being Someone: The Integrated Self as a Neuropsychological System
Authors: Kuhl Julius , Quirin Markus , Koole Sander L.
Published: March 2015

Fully functioning persons are characterized by a unity in thought, emotion, and action that amounts to “being someone” or having “an integrated self.” Psychologists have typically treated the integrated self as merely a descriptive term that summarizes significant behavioral achievements. In the present article, the authors seek to place the integrated self on firmer theoretical grounds by relating the integrated self to a neurobiological system with distinct processing characteristics. Building on personality systems interactions theory (Kuhl, ), the authors suggest that the integrated self is supported by parallel‐distributed processing in the right anterior cortex and can be distinguished from simpler self‐related states of mind. From this neuropsychological model, the authors derive seven functions of the integrated self: emotional connectedness, broad vigilance, utilization of felt feedback, unconscious processing, integration of negative experiences, extended resilience, and extended trust. The authors discuss the seven functions and their mutual relations along with relevant behavioral and neurobiological evidence. Finally, the authors highlight the importance of positive relationships for optimal development of the integrated self and discuss how the integrated self might be further cultivated to improve self‐regulation and health.
Stability of co‐composted hydrochar and biochar under field conditions in a temperate soil
Authors: Busch D. , Glaser B.
Published: March 2015

Hydrothermally converted biomass (hydrochar) is evaluated as a carbon‐rich soil amendment in addition to pyrogenic biochar. After assessing the suitability of hydrochar for use in agriculture, its environmental safety and comparing its chemistry with that of biochar, we describe a field trial established at Halle (Germany) under natural conditions for a temperate climate and without further external management practices. The main objective of our study was to analyse the stability and hence the C sequestration potential of composted chars over a period of 2 years. Four treatments (no amendment control, compost, co‐composted hydrochar and co‐composted biochar) in fourfold field replication were chosen to make a direct comparison of biochar and hydrochar under field conditions. The total organic carbon and total N increased in all treatments in comparison with the control but only in biochar‐amended treatments were N concentrations more stable. Composted biochar showed significantly more black carbon content in topsoil, sampled some months after application, compared with all other treatments. We show that hydrochar is less suitable for long‐term C sequestration in comparison with biochar but has potential for soil amelioration because it delivers essential nutrients. On the other hand, biochar is richer in polyaromatic C than hydrochar and therefore is more stable in the long term. We assessed biochar stability using the black carbon analysis of the different soil samples.
Framing Spatial‐Religious Conflicts: The Case of Mormon Development in Jerusalem
Authors: Gal Michal Ben , Collins‐Kreiner Noga , Shmueli Deborah F.
Published: March 2015

The paper's aims are twofold: first to present framing methodology as an approach which provides insights into conflicts stemming from the construction of new religious sites. Second, to analyse theBrighamYoungUniversityJerusalemCenter, using framing in order to understand the spatial‐religious conflicts involved in its establishment. The findings fall within three frame categories (‘super‐frames’) identified in the research: ‘process’, ‘values’, and ‘issues’. The findings reveal that the discord surrounding theBYU Center had to do primarily with process and the values, and not around the issues themselves. The methodology provides a typology for understanding and analysing the different stories told by stakeholders involved in spatial‐religious conflicts where the decision adopted might be perceived as endangering identity and ‘sense of place’. The typology may be helpful in the analysis of similar disputes elsewhere, and shed light on ways to reframe conflicts over sacred place
The Internet and Desire to Move: The Role of Virtual Practices in the Inspiration Phase of Migration
Authors: Thulin Eva , Vilhelmson Bertil
Published: March 2015

This paper contributes to the understanding of non‐local migration in the digital age by investigating emerging virtual practices in the migration process. We focus on the initial inspiration phase that theoretically defines the attainable reach of individuals considering moving. Using a case‐based approach, we distinguish how online information and social contact influence an individual's early considerations and desires to move elsewhere. We draw on indepth interviews with young adults in Sweden. Our findings characterise how Internet‐based information influences the spatial, social, and temporal horizons of inspiration with potential implications for subsequent plans. We find that virtual practices spatially expand these horizons and promote a shift towards insider information. Results further suggest that a flow of information and background knowledge regarding opportunities in other places drives the inspiration phase, extending its duration until it is more or less continuous. Reduced information friction increases the scope for impulsiveness to spark migration inspiration and intentions.
Medical pluralism among indigenous peoples in northeast India ‐ implications for health policy
Authors: Albert Sandra , Nongrum Melari , Webb Emily L. , Porter John D.H. , Kharkongor Glenn C.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

The government of India is promoting and increasing investment in the traditional medicine systems of Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) in the northeast region of India. But there are few empirical data that support this policy decision. This study estimates the awareness and use of the different medical systems in rural Meghalaya, a state in north‐east India with a predominantly ethnic tribal population.

Method

We conducted a cross‐sectional multistage random sample household survey across all districts of Meghalaya. To enable appropriate estimates for the whole of rural Meghalaya, the data were weighted to allow for the probability of selection of households at each stage of the sampling process.

Results

Both local tribal medicine and biomedicine were widely accepted and used, but the majority (68.7%, 95% CI: 51.9–81.7) had not heard of AYUSH and even fewer had used it. Tribal medicine was used (79.1%, 95% CI 66.3–88.0), thought to be effective (87.5%, 95% CI: 74.2–94.1) and given in a variety of disorders, including both minor and major diseases. In the 3 months prior to the survey, 46.2% (95% CI: 30.5–62.8) had used tribal medicine. Only 10.5% (95% CI: 6.1–17.6) reported ever using any of the AYUSH systems.

Conclusion

Our comparative estimates of the awareness and use of tribal medicine, different systems of AYUSH and of biomedicine among indigenous populations of India question the basis on which AYUSH is promoted in the northeast region of India and in the state of Meghalaya in particular.
Hindlimb unweighting does not alter vasoconstrictor responsiveness and nitric oxide‐mediated inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstriction
Authors: Just Timothy P. , Jendzjowsky Nicholas G. , DeLorey Darren S.
Published: March 2015

Key points

Physical inactivity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and may alter sympathetic nervous system control of vascular resistance.

Hindlimb unweighting (HU), a rodent model of physical inactivity, has been shown to diminish sympathetic vasoconstrictor responsiveness and reduce NO synthase expression in isolated skeletal muscle blood vessels.

Our understanding of the effects of HU on sympathetic vascular regulation in vivo is very limited.

The present findings demonstrate that HU did not alter sympathetic vasoconstrictor responsiveness and NO‐mediated inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstriction in resting and contracting skeletal muscle.

This study suggests that short‐term physical inactivity does not alter in vivo sympathetic vascular control in the skeletal muscle vascular bed at rest and during contraction.

We tested the hypothesis that physical inactivity would increase sympathetic vasoconstrictor responsiveness and diminish NO‐mediated inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstriction in resting and contracting skeletal muscle. Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 33) were randomly assigned to sedentary time control (S) or hindlimb unweighted (HU) groups for 21 days. Following the intervention, rats were anaesthetized and instrumented for measurement of arterial blood pressure and femoral artery blood flow and stimulation of the lumbar sympathetic chain. The percentage change of femoral vascular conductance (%FVC) in response to sympathetic chain stimulation delivered at 2 and 5 Hz was determined at rest and during triceps surae muscle contraction before (control) and after NO synthase blockade with l‐NAME (5 mg kg i.v.). Sympathetic vasoconstrictor responsiveness was not different (P > 0.05) in S and HU rats at rest (S, 2 Hz, −26 ± 8% and 5 Hz, −46 ± 12%; and HU, 2 Hz, −29 ± 9% and 5 Hz, −51 ± 10%) and during contraction (S, 2 Hz, −10 ± 7% and 5 Hz, −23 ± 11%; and HU, 2 Hz, −9 ± 5% and 5 Hz, −22 ± 7%). Nitric oxide synthase blockade caused a similar increase (P > 0.05) in sympathetic vasoconstrictor responsiveness in HU and S rats at rest (S, 2 Hz, −41 ± 7% and 5 Hz, −58 ± 8%; and HU, 2 Hz, −43 ± 6% and 5 Hz, −63 ± 8%) and during muscle contraction (S, 2 Hz, −15 ± 6% and 5 Hz, −31 ± 11%; and HU, 2 Hz, −12 ± 5% and 5 Hz, −29 ± 8%). Skeletal muscle NO synthase expression and ACh‐mediated vasodilatation were also not different between HU and S rats. These data suggest that HU does not alter sympathetic vasoconstrictor responsiveness and NO‐mediated inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstriction in resting and contracting skeletal muscle.
Assessment of Coke Drum Materials Based on ASME Material Property Data
Authors: Nikic Milan , Xia Zihui , Plessis Pierre Du
Published: March 2015

Delayed coking as a part of heavy oil upgrading is characterized with severe thermal–mechanical operating conditions. Coke drums operating under such conditions require proper design and material selection in order to sustain the high stresses caused by the thermal–mechanical loading. This paper has the objective to explore alternative material selections for coke drum applications based on material property data provided in ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, Section II—Materials. The materials were compared based on the stress levels obtained by using finite element analyses (FEA) for two critical loading scenarios in the coke drum operation cycle, i.e., the heating up and quenching stages. The results show that closer matching in the coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) between clad and base materials reduce significantly the stress in the clad during heating up stage. Among other material properties, the results show that the variation in Young's modulus values of base materials plays an important role in the variation of maximum stress in the coke drum shell during the bending of the shell caused by quenching water. Among the considered 11 pairs of clad and base material combinations, the combination of SA302-C as the base material and nickel alloy N06625 as the cladding material is recommended for delayed coke drum application.
Inverse Relationship Between Physical Activity, Adiposity, and Arterial Stiffness in Healthy Middle-Aged Subjects
Authors: Ananey Oscar Mac , McLoughlin Brendan , Leonard Ann , Maher Lewena , Gaffney Peter , Boran Gerard , Maher Vincent
Published: March 2015

Background:

Several obesity related factors are reported to exacerbate premature arterial stiffening, including inactivity and metabolic disarray. The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between physical activity, arterial stiffness and adiposity using objective methods. To further explore the role of adiposity in this complex process, obesity associated anthropometric and humoral biomarkers were measured.

Methods:

Seventy-nine healthy, lifelong nonsmoking subjects were recruited. Habitual physical activity was measured using accelerometry. Arterial stiffness [augmentation index (AIx) and pulse wave velocity (PWV)] was measured using tonometry. Body composition was estimated using bioimpedence. Adipose associated biomarkers, leptin and adiponectin, were also measured.

Results:

Sedentary time was significantly associated with AIx (r = 0.38, P < .001), PWV (r = 0.33, P < .01), body fat composition (r = 0.40, P < .001) and age (r = 0.30, P < .01). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was inversely correlated with AIx (r = –0.28, P < .05), body fat composition (r = –0.30, P < .01), postprandial insulin (r = –0.35, P < .01), and leptin/adiponectin ratio (r = –0.28, P < .05). MVPA, body fat composition, and postprandial insulin remained independent predictors of AIx but not PWV.

Conclusion:

The more time healthy individuals spend being sedentary, the greater their body fat and arterial stiffness. Conversely higher activity levels are associated with reduced body fat and less arterial stiffness.
Experimental nutrient additions accelerate terrestrial carbon loss from stream ecosystems
Authors: Rosemond Amy D. , Benstead Jonathan P. , Bumpers Phillip M. , Gulis Vladislav , Kominoski John S. , Manning David W. P. , Suberkropp Keller , Wallace J. Bruce
Published: March 2015

Carbon kicked out by nutrients

Excess nutrients added to streams result in net carbon loss from aquatic ecosystems. Nitrogen and phosphorus are known to fuel increases in algal carbon. Now, Rosemond
et al.
show that nutrients stimulate losses of terrestrially derived carbon (e.g., from twigs and leaves). The authors monitored several multiyear experiments on headwater forest streams in the United States. Some of these streams had extra nitrogen and phosphorus added at levels that are now common in many streams and lakes. To successfully manage river ecosystems, we need to take into account nutrient pollution effects on multiple carbon pathways.

Science
, this issue p.
1142
Statistics requantitates the central dogma
Authors: Li Jingyi Jessica , Biggin Mark D.
Published: March 2015

Transcription, not translation, chiefly determines protein abundance in mammals

[Also see Research Article by

Jovanovic
et al.

]
Evaluation of the Characteristics of the Enzyme-Linked Immunospot Assay for Diagnosis of Active Tuberculosis in China
Authors: Wang Linchuan , Yu Yan , Chen Wei , Feng Jin , Wang Jinyuan , Zhao Heping , Ma Lietin , Yang Bo , Ma Yanfen , Dang Pei
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of the T-SPOT.TB test for the diagnosis of active tuberculosis (ATB) and to distinguish ATB from other diseases using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. A total of 535 patients with suspected active tuberculosis were enrolled in the study and divided into ATB and nonactive tuberculosis (NATB) groups, as well as pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) subgroups. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio of the T-SPOT.TB test for the diagnosis of ATB were 84.95%, 85.12%, 82.94%, 86.93%, 5.71, and 0.18, respectively. The median number of spot-forming cells (SFCs) in the ATB group was higher than that in the NATB group (71 versus 1;P< 0.0001). The sensitivities in the PTB and EPTB subgroups were 92.31% and 81.77%. The areas under the curve (AUC) for the diagnosis of ATB using the T-SPOT.TB, early secreted antigenic target 6 (ESAT-6), and culture filtrate protein 10 (CFP-10) were 0.906, 0.884, and 0.877, respectively. A cutoff of 42.5 SFCs for ATB yielded a positive predictive value of 100%. Our study shows that the T-SPOT.TB test is useful for the diagnosis of ATB. Utilizing an ROC curve to select an appropriate cutoff made it possible to discriminate ATB from NATB.
Seroprevalence of Antibody-Mediated, Complement-Dependent Opsonophagocytic Activity against Neisseria meningitidis Serogroup B in England
Authors: Humphries Holly E. , Brookes Charlotte , Allen Lauren , Kuisma Eeva , Gorringe Andrew , Taylor Stephen
Published: March 2015

The correlate of protection for the licensure of meningococcal vaccines is serum bactericidal activity. However, evidence indicates that a complex situation and other mechanisms, such as antibody-mediated, complement-dependent opsonophagocytosis (OP), may play a role in protection and should be investigated in order to understand immunity to this disease. In this study, a high-throughput flow cytometric opsonophagocytic assay (OPA) was optimized. The assay measures the presence of killed fluorescently labeledNeisseria meningitidiswithin human granulocytes (differentiated HL60 cells) by flow cytometry, using IgG-depleted pooled human plasma as an exogenous source of complement. This method was found to be reliable and correlated with the results of an opsonophagocytic killing assay. The OPA was used to measure OP activity in 1,878 serum samples from individuals ranging from 0 to 99 years of age againstN. meningitidisstrain NZ98/254 (B:4:P1.7-2,4). The levels of OP activity in individual serum samples varied greatly. OP activity showed an initial peak in the 6- to 12-month age group corresponding to a peak in disease incidence. The OP activity dropped in childhood until the late teenage years, although there was still a higher percentage of individuals with OP activity than with protective bactericidal antibody titers. OP activity reached a peak in the 30- to 39-year age group and then declined. This later peak in OP activity did not coincide with the young adults in whom peak serum bactericidal activity and disease incidence occurred. The demonstration of OP activity when disease incidence is low and when protective bactericidal antibody titers are not detected may indicate a role for OP in protection from meningococcal disease in these age groups.
Assessment of the Safety and Efficacy of an Attenuated Live Vaccine Based on Highly Pathogenic Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus
Authors: Yu Xiuling , Zhou Zhi , Cao Zhen , Wu Jiajun , Zhang Zhongqiu , Xu Baiwan , Wang Chuanbin , Hu Dongmei , Deng Xiaoyu , Han Wei , Gu Xiaoxue , Zhang Shuo , Li Xiaoxia , Wang Baoyue , Zhai Xinyan , Tian Kegong
Published: March 2015

The safety and efficacy of the JXA1-R vaccine, an attenuated strain of highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (HP-PRRSV), were examined using an intramuscular challenge model in piglets. The JXA1-R vaccine was obtained by passing HP-PRRSV JXA1 through Marc-145 cells (82nd passage). Genomic sequence comparisons showed that strain JXA1-R and its parental strain, JXA1, differ by 47 amino acids, and most of these differences are scattered throughout the PRRSV genome. Four-week-old PRRSV-free piglets were inoculated intramuscularly with JXA1-R vaccine (10
3.0
, 10
4.0
, 10
5.0
, 10
6.0
, and 10
7.0
50% tissue culture infective doses [TCID
50
]/ml for groups 1 to 5, respectively) and then challenged intramuscularly with the 5th passage virus of JXA1 virus (JXA1-F5, 3 ml × 10
4.5
TCID
50
/ml) 28 days after inoculation. The humoral immune response, swine growth, clinical signs, and differential organ lesions were monitored. The results showed that all vaccinated piglets had a perceptible humoral immune response to vaccination after day 7, which then promptly increased, almost reaching the maximum sample/positive (S/P) ratio value at 28 days postimmunization. Viremia detection indicated that the viral replication levels of the challenge virus in the immunized groups (immunization doses ≥10
4.0
/ml) were significantly lower than that of the virus-challenged unvaccinated control group. Piglets in groups 2 to 5 were effectively protected against lethal HP-PRRSV infection and did not show any obvious changes in body temperature or clinical signs of disease at any point during the experiment. However, two of five piglets in group 1 showed mild pathological lesions and transitory high fever. These results suggest that JXA1-R (TCID
50
/ml ≥10
4.0
) is sufficiently attenuated and can provide effective protection against the lethal wild-type HP-PRRSV.
Complementary Assays Reveal a Low Level of CA Associated with Viral Complexes in the Nuclei of HIV-1-Infected Cells
Authors: Hulme Amy E. , Kelley Z , Foley Deirdre , Hope Thomas J.
Published: March 2015

During uncoating, the conical capsid of HIV disassembles by dissociation of the p24 capsid protein (CA). Uncoating is known to be required for HIV replication, but the mechanism is poorly defined. Here, we examined the timing and effect of two capsid binding drugs (PF74 and BI2) on infectivity and capsid integrity in HIV-1-infected cells. The virus remained susceptible to the action of PF74 and BI2 for hours after uncoating as defined in parallel drug addition and cyclosporine (CsA) washout assays to detect the kinetics of drug susceptibility and uncoating, respectively. Resistance mutations in CA decreased the potency of these compounds, demonstrating that CA is the target of drug action. However, neither drug altered capsid integrity in a fluorescence microscopy-based assay. These data suggest that PF74 and BI2 do not alter HIV-1 uncoating but rather affect a later step in viral replication. Because both drugs bind CA, we hypothesized that a residual amount of CA associates with the viral complex after the loss of the conical capsid to serve as a target for these drugs. Superresolution structured illumination microscopy (SIM) revealed that CA localized to viral complexes in the nuclei of infected cells. Using image quantification, we determined that viral complexes localized in the nucleus displayed a smaller amount of CA than complexes at the nuclear membrane, in the cytoplasm, or in controls. Collectively, these data suggest that a subset of CA remains associated with the viral complex after uncoating and that this residual CA is the target of PF74 and BI2.

IMPORTANCE
The HIV-1 capsid is a target of interest for new antiviral therapies. This conical capsid is composed of monomers of the viral CA protein. During HIV-1 replication, the capsid must disassemble by a poorly defined process called uncoating. CA has also been implicated in later steps of replication, including nuclear import and integration. In this study, we used cell-based assays to examine the effect of two CA binding drugs (PF74 and BI2) on viral replication in infected cells. HIV-1 was susceptible to both drugs for hours after uncoating, suggesting that these drugs affect later steps of viral replication. High-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SIM) revealed that a subset of CA localized to viral complexes in the nuclei of cells. Collectively, these data suggest that a subset of CA remains associated with the viral complex after uncoating, which may facilitate later steps of viral replication and serve as a drug target.
Ebola Virus VP35 Interaction with Dynein LC8 Regulates Viral RNA Synthesis
Authors: Luthra Priya , Jordan David S. , Leung Daisy W. , Amarasinghe Gaya K. , Basler Christopher F.
Published: March 2015

Ebola virus VP35 inhibits alpha/beta interferon production and functions as a viral polymerase cofactor. Previously, the 8-kDa cytoplasmic dynein light chain (LC8) was demonstrated to interact with VP35, but the functional consequences were unclear. Here we demonstrate that the interaction is direct and of high affinity and that binding stabilizes the VP35 N-terminal oligomerization domain and enhances viral RNA synthesis. Mutational analysis demonstrates that VP35 interaction is required for the functional effects of LC8.
Role of EXT1 and Glycosaminoglycans in the Early Stage of Filovirus Entry
Authors: O'Hearn Aileen , Wang Minxiu , Cheng Han , Lear-Rooney Calli M. , Koning Katie , Rumschlag-Booms Emily , Varhegyi Elizabeth , Olinger Gene , Rong Lijun
Published: March 2015

Filoviruses, including both Ebola virus (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV), can infect humans and other animals, causing hemorrhagic fever with a high mortality rate. Entry of these viruses into the host is mediated by a single filoviral glycoprotein (GP). GP is composed of two subunits: GP1, which is responsible for attachment and binding to receptor(s) on susceptible cells, and GP2, which mediates viral and cell membrane fusion. Although numerous host factors have been implicated in the entry process, the initial attachment receptor(s) has not been well defined. In this report, we demonstrate that exostosin 1 (EXT1), which is involved in biosynthesis of heparan sulfate (HS), plays a role in filovirus entry. Expression knockdown of EXT1 by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) impairs GP-mediated pseudoviral entry and that of infectious EBOV and MARV in tissue cultured cells. Furthermore, HS, heparin, and other related glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), to different extents, can bind to and block GP-mediated viral entry and that of infectious filoviruses. These results strongly suggest that HS and other related GAGs are attachment receptors that are utilized by filoviruses for entry and infection. These GAGs may have therapeutic potential in treating EBOV- and MARV-infected patients.

IMPORTANCE
Infection by Ebola virus and Marburg virus can cause severe illness in humans, with a high mortality rate, and currently there is no FDA-approved vaccine or therapeutic treatment available. The ongoing 2014 outbreak in West Africa underscores a lack of our understanding in the infection and pathogenesis of these viruses and the urgency of drug discovery and development. In this study, we provide several pieces of evidence that demonstrate that heparan sulfate and other closely related glycosaminoglycans are the molecules that are used by filoviruses for initial attachment. Furthermore, we demonstrate that these glycosaminoglycans can block entry of and infection by filoviruses. Thus, this work provides mechanistic insights on the early step of filoviral infection and suggests a possible therapeutic option for diseases caused by filovirus infection.
Transmitted/Founder Viruses Rapidly Escape from CD8
+
T Cell Responses in Acute Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Bull Rowena A. , Leung Preston , Gaudieri Silvana , Deshpande Pooja , Cameron Barbara , Walker Melanie , Chopra Abha , Lloyd Andrew R. , Luciani Fabio
Published: March 2015

The interaction between hepatitis C virus (HCV) and cellular immune responses during very early infection is critical for disease outcome. To date, the impact of antigen-specific cellular immune responses on the evolution of the viral population establishing infection and on potential escape has not been studied. Understanding these early host-virus dynamics is important for the development of a preventative vaccine. Three subjects who were followed longitudinally from the detection of viremia preseroconversion until disease outcome were analyzed. The evolution of transmitted/founder (T/F) viruses was undertaken using deep sequencing. CD8
+
T cell responses were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISpot) assay using HLA class I-restricted T/F epitopes. T/F viruses were rapidly extinguished in all subjects associated with either viral clearance (
n
= 1) or replacement with viral variants leading to establishment of chronic infection (
n
= 2). CD8
+
T cell responses against 11 T/F epitopes were detectable by 33 to 44 days postinfection, and 5 of these epitopes had not previously been reported. These responses declined rapidly in those who became chronically infected and were maintained in the subject who cleared infection. Higher-magnitude CD8
+
T cell responses were associated with rapid development of immune escape variants at a rate of up to 0.1 per day. Rapid escape from CD8
+
T cell responses has been quantified for the first time in the early phase of primary HCV infection. These rapid escape dynamics were associated with higher-magnitude CD8
+
T cell responses. These findings raise questions regarding optimal selection of immunogens for HCV vaccine development and suggest that detailed analysis of individual epitopes may be required.

IMPORTANCE
A major limitation in our detailed understanding of the role of immune response in HCV clearance has been the lack of data on very early primary infection when the transmitted viral variants successfully establish the acute infection. This study was made possible through the availability of specimens from a unique cohort of asymptomatic primary infection cases in whom the first available viremic samples were collected approximately 3 weeks postinfection and at regular intervals thereafter. The study included detailed examination of both the evolution of the viral population and the host cellular immune responses against the T/F viruses. The findings here provide the first evidence of host cellular responses targeting T/F variants and imposing a strong selective force toward viral escape. The results of this study provide useful insight on how virus escapes the host response and consequently on future analysis of vaccine-induced immunity.
Difficulty with cuff deflation of reinforced tracheal tube caused by inflation line occlusion with silk thread ligation and fixation
Authors: Gotoh Sayoko , Sugiyama Daisuke , Imai Eriko , Kawamata Mikito
Published: March 2015

A reinforced tracheal tube, ligated with silk threads, was inserted into a tracheostomy orifice and fixed to the skin. The cuff inflation line of the reinforced tracheal tube became occluded. Reinforced ‘armoured’ tracheal tubes have a spiral of wire embedded into the wall of the tube to give strength and flexibility, and may be sharply bent without compromising the tube lumen. The tracheal cuff attached to the tube is inflated by injecting air through a narrow-diameter tube welded to the outside of the tracheal tube. When a reinforced tracheal tube is ligated and fixed with silk threads, it should be confirmed whether the tracheal tube cuff can be deflated and inflated after fixation. Moreover, because occlusion can be eliminated by removing all silk threads used to ligate a tracheal tube, they should be removed before extubation.
Dislocated trial femoral head during total hip arthroplasty: review of the literature and the new algorithm for treatment
Authors: Bicanic Goran , Crnogaca Kresimir , Simunovic Marko , Delimar Domagoj
Published: March 2015

Dislocation of the trial femoral head is a rare and unpleasant event that can compromise the success of the total hip arthroplasty. A 62-year-old Caucasian woman with osteoarthritis was admitted to our Department and underwent an elective total hip arthroplasty. While performing the dislocation manoeuver the trial femoral head dissociated from the taper in the superior and anterior direction in the soft tissue and could not be retrieved immediately. The operation was then executed and finished in an ordinary manner. Three months after discharge from our department patient presented with the pain in the hip and groin and periprosthetic joint infection was diagnosed. The successful second operation for the retrieval of the dislocated trial femoral head was conducted through ilioinguinal approach. In this paper we reviewed the published literature and developed the algorithm for the decision-making while dealing with the dislocated and lost trial femoral head.
Avian haematology and biochemistry 2. Biochemistry
Authors: Sabater Mikel , Forbes Neil
Published: March 2015

Birds typically hide signs of disease until pathogenesis is advanced. Haematology and biochemistry can help with diagnosis. This article, the second in a two‐part series, considers what can be learned from biochemistry, discussing each of the analytes in turn. The first article, published in the November/December issue of In Practice (Sabater and Forbes 2014), discussed haematology.