bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influência dos traços de personalidade no ceticismo profissional de auditores independentes
Authors: Cunha Paulo Roberto da , Silva Crisiane Teixeira da , Peyerl Danrlei Anderson , Haveroth Juçara
Published: December 2019

Esta pesquisa teve por objetivo verificar a influência dos traços de personalidade no ceticismo profissional de auditores no Brasil. A amostra corresponde a 321 auditores cadastrados no Conselho Federal de Contabilidade (CFC), com perfis ativos no LinkedIn®. O ceticismo profissional contempla as dimensões: mente questionadora, suspensão do julgamento, busca pelo conhecimento, conhecimento interpessoal, autoestima e autonomia (Hurtt, 2010) e o traço de personalidade é engloba as dimensões abertura à experiência, consciência, extroversão, amabilidade e neuroticismo (Gosling et al., 2003). Os resultados demonstram que os traços de personalidade explicam 22% do ceticismo profissional dos auditores, e que a abertura à experiência e a consciência possuem uma relação positiva com o ceticismo profissional, enquanto a amabilidade demonstrou uma relação negativa. O estudo sinaliza aos órgãos reguladores, auditores e firmas de auditoria que os traços de personalidade influenciam na formação do traço cético dos auditores. Assim, observar essas características pode contribuir para entender este comportamento durante o processo de auditoria.
Adenosine 2A Receptor Activation Contributes to Ang II–Induced Aortic Remodeling by Promoting Macrophage Retention
Authors: He Zuowen , Xu Xizhen , Chen Chen , Li Huaping , Wang Dao Wen
Published: December 2019

The A
2A
R (adenosine 2A receptor) plays a crucial role in the pathophysiological process of cardiovascular diseases, yet its effect on aortic remodeling remains unclear. We observed elevated adenosine and A
2A
R levels following infusion of mice with Ang II (angiotensin II), suggesting a potential role for the adenosine-A
2A
R system in macrophage accumulation and subsequent aortic remodeling. The effects and mechanisms of A
2A
R on macrophage dynamics during aortic remodeling were further investigated using mice with macrophage knockout of A
2A
R and by transplantation of A
2A
R
−/−
bone marrow. We demonstrated that macrophage knockout of A
2A
R inhibited macrophage accumulation and subsequent aortic remodeling by inhibiting macrophage retention. This was shown to occur via promotion of macrophage emigration to the draining lymph node. These effects correlated with restoration of the expression and surface content of CCR7 (CC chemokine receptor 7). Consistently, A
2A
R
−/−
bone marrow transplantation relieved Ang II–induced aortic remodeling, macrophage retention, and CCR7 downregulation and internalization, all of which were rescued by A
2A
R
+
/
+
bone marrow transplantation. In addition, CCR7 antibody treatment blocked all the protective effects observed in A
2A
R-cKO mice, including attenuation of aortic remodeling and decreased macrophage retention. In in vitro studies, A
2A
R activation induced by Ang II suppressed macrophage migration to CCL19 (CC-chemokine ligand) 19 through downregulation and internalization of CCR7. In summary, A
2A
R activation contributes to Ang II–induced macrophage retention and subsequent aortic remodeling by inhibiting migration of macrophages to the draining lymph node through regulating CCR7 expression and internalization.
Bruno Latour and the Secularization of Science
Authors: Simons Massimiliano
Published: December 2019

Many young dreamers who want to be modern up to the tips of their toes, and who think they have gotten rid of these barely imaginable old-fashioned ideas, are, without realizing it, mystics in search of a spiritual experience. (Gauchet 2003 , p. 311)

Several sociologists of science have mobilized secularization metaphors to describe developments in the study of science. Similar to how secularization refers to a decreasing status of religion and God as a transcendent factor in society, the secularization of science refers to an abandonment of Science as something “sacred” and Nature as transcendent. This article aims to explore these secularization metaphors, by arguing for a parallel between how sociologists and philosophers of religion differ and how similar disagreements between sociologists of science and the work of Bruno Latour exist, whose work should rather be linked with that of other philosophers, such as Michel Serres and Isabelle Stengers.
Ut fidem dictis adhibeant
Authors: Abele Andreas
Published: December 2019

Sulpicius Severus’ account of St Martin sharing his cloak with the beggar at the gate of Amiens is still one of the most prominent and best-known episodes of late antique Christian hagiography. This deed is considered above all as the epitome of Martin’s charity and will to follow Christ. Furthermore, this episode also serves to apologize Martin’s military service in the Roman army. The latter was a heavy burden for Sulpicius’ saint, which the author of his Vita had to get rid of in the most credible way possible. Sulpicius asserts that Martin’s compulsory military service was dominated by Christian virtues. A narratological close reading focusing on the categories of ‘distance’ and ‘focalization’ and applying linguistic analysis tools as well shows that eventually it is the narrative disposition of the ‘Amiens episode’ that makes the narrator’s earlier apologetic authorial statements credible.
New species of gall fly (Diptera: Fergusoninidae) from Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Myrtaceae) in southern Australia and its associated parasitoids and inquilines
Authors: TAYLOR GARY S. , HYDER BRITTANY K. , DAVIES KERRIE A.
Published: December 2019

A new species of gall fly, Fergusonina nodulosa sp. nov. (Diptera: Fergusoninidae) is described from Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. (Myrtaceae) in southern Australia. The adult fly is yellow with dark brown to black markings, the male postgonites have one large distal tooth and an ovoid subapical lobe with two lateral setae, the female postabdomen is short and sparsely setose, and the wing has a posterior cross vein. The larva possesses a dorsal shield comprising rows of raised spicules on thoracic segments 1–3 and abdominal segments 1–7, and the puparium is heavily sclerotised dark brown, barrel-shaped, bearing the dorsal shield. Fergusonina nodulosa sp. nov. forms nodular ‘stem’ galls initiating from the axial shoot buds. The galls are 2–8 mm in diameter with an average volume of 123 (range 25–480) mm3. Thirteen species of Hymenoptera, comprising primary parasitoids and hyperparasitoids of the gall fly and associated lepidopteran inquilines, and three species of Lepidoptera inquilines were reared from galls of this new species. Fergusonina nodulosa sp. nov. is associated with the obligate mutualist nematode, Fergusobia camaldulensae Davies.
Cladocera (Crustacea, Branchiopoda) in coastal temporary environments in southern Brazil
Authors: MARTINS KAROLINE PEREIRA , DA SILVA BANDEIRA MAIBY GLORIZE , PALMA-SILVA CLEBER , ALBERTONI EDÉLTI FARIA
Published: December 2019

The coastal plain of Rio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil, presents as characteristic large expanses of wetlands. Some of these environments are of a temporary nature, and thus have a community adapted to periods with water and periods of drought. Among these communities we can highlight the Cladocera, which have the capacity to form structures of dormancy, and due to this adaptation are effective at colonizing these environments. This study aims to identify the Cladocera species present in the temporary aquatic environments of the southern coastal region of Brazil. Samples were collected in 14 temporary aquatic environments using a classical filtering methodology. As results we obtained 64 Cladocera taxa, representing 54% of the total number of species described in Brazil. The number of taxa was high, the species accumulation curve showed a tendency to stabilization, demonstrating that this region possesses a greater richness.
Pervaporation Performance of Polydimethylsiloxane-Polyvinylidene Fluoride Composite Membrane for Butanol Recovery from Model Solutions and Acetone-Butanol-Ethanol Fermentation Broth
Authors: Li Yonghong , Shi Jiping , Liu Xiaojie , Yu Qiang , Qiu Weihua , Liu Li
Published: December 2019

Pervaporation has been identified as the most promising separation technology for butanol recovery in acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation, to overcome two main obstacles, low yield and high separation cost in the industrial-scale butanol production. In this work, we investigated
the pervaporation performance of a thin flat polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composite membrane for butanol recovery from model solutions and ABE fermentation broth. The PDMS-PVDF composite membrane exhibited a high total flux of 1330 g m–2 h–1,
and relatively higher separation factors of 21.2, 17.2, and 4.5 for acetone, butanol, and ethanol, respectively, with ABE-water solution. Compared to ABE-water solution, the total flux decreased by 3.25% and separation factors increased by 1.40%, 3.21%, and 3.92% for acetone, butanol, and
ethanol in ABE fermentation broth, indicating that the negative effect of impermeable components present in the ABE fermentation broth was negligible. The excellent pervaporation performance and long-term operational stability of PDMS-PVDF composite membrane can enhance the efficacy of butanol
recovery, thus it has potential to be used as a competitive pervaporation membrane in ABE fermentation process.
Conserving Land–Atmosphere Synthesis Suite (CLASS)
Authors: Hobeichi Sanaa , Abramowitz Gab , Evans Jason
Published: December 2019

Accurate estimates of terrestrial water and energy cycle components are needed to better understand climate processes and improve models’ ability to simulate future change. Various observational estimates are available for the individual budget terms; however, these typically show inconsistencies when combined in a budget. In this work, a Conserving Land–Atmosphere Synthesis Suite (CLASS) of estimates of simultaneously balanced surface water and energy budget components is developed. Individual CLASS variable datasets, where possible, 1) combine a range of existing variable product estimates, and hence overcome the limitations of estimates from a single source; 2) are observationally constrained with in situ measurements; 3) have uncertainty estimates that are consistent with their agreement with in situ observations; and 4) are consistent with each other by being able to solve the water and energy budgets simultaneously. First, available datasets of a budget variable are merged by implementing a weighting method that accounts both for the ability of datasets to match in situ measurements and the error covariance between datasets. Then, the budget terms are adjusted by applying an objective variational data assimilation technique (DAT) that enforces the simultaneous closure of the surface water and energy budgets linked through the equivalence of evapotranspiration and latent heat. Comparing component estimates before and after applying the DAT against in situ measurements of energy fluxes and streamflow showed that modified estimates agree better with in situ observations across various metrics, but also revealed some inconsistencies between water budget terms in June over the higher latitudes. CLASS variable estimates are freely available viahttps://doi.org/10.25914/5c872258dc183.
Splenic infarct with scrub typhus: a rare presentation
Authors: Goyal Manjeet K , Porwal Yogesh C , Gogna Arun , Gulati Sameer
Published: December 2019

Scrub typhus has a variety of clinical presentations ranging from asymptomatic to fever with chills, myalgias, hepatitis, gastric ulcerations and pancreatitis, all being attributed to disseminated vasculitis, with splenic infarction being a rare presentation. A 26-year man, a resident of north India, presented with an acute febrile illness and abdominal pain, computed tomography scan of the abdomen was suggestive of a splenic infarct. After ruling out other aetiology, a positive IgM (ELISA) for scrub typhus led to treatment with oral doxycycline, following which the patient was discharged symptom-free. Rarely can splenic infarction be attributable to scrub typhus; so far, five such cases have been reported in the published literature.
A re-examination of pair dynamics and L2 learning opportunities in collaborative writing
Authors: Zhang Meixiu
Published: December 2019

Pair dynamics has received much attention in collaborative writing (CW) research. Prior research on the link between pair dynamics and L2 learning opportunities (often operationalized as language related episodes; LREs) in CW has primarily focused on the quantity, length, and outcome of LREs, but rarely considered the quality of the LREs. Also, scarce research has considered the fluctuating nature of pair dynamics and its impact on the L2 learning opportunities. This study employs an approach of detecting pair dynamics that accounts for its fluid nature to investigate how learners’ collaboration in various aspects of CW may influence the quantity, quality, focus, and outcome of the LREs in CW tasks by intermediate L2 learners. Results indicated that while discussion on task management and organization generally took up a limited portion of dyadic interaction, unbalanced contribution to these aspects, especially when coupled with an unequal involvement in content elicitation, greatly affected the quantity and quality of L2 learning opportunities in CW. Also, pairs who participated unequally in discussing language use might still generate many LREs. However, a moderate portion of these LREs represented one learner’s externalized private speech, and thus might not be very beneficial for the other pair member.
Long-term study on the effect of temperature on composite action and variation of neutral axis in slab on girder bridges
Authors: Algohi B , Svecova D , Mufti A , Bakht B , Thomson D
Published: December 2019

Composite action between steel girders and concrete slab is an important mechanical feature that needs to be maintained so that bridges can carry the applied load safely. This mechanical feature is maintained through the shear studs installed at the top flange of the steel girders. These shear studs keep the steel girders and the concrete slab working as one unit, resulting in a stronger section than if each element works separately. The composite action can be investigated using several methods of which one is the study of the position of the neutral axis (NA). The variation of the position of the NA over time gives an indication about the structural performance of the composite section. In this study, the variation of the position of the NA over time is investigated. Two bridges located in Manitoba were investigated in this study. The variation of the NA is observed as a result of variation of ambient temperature (temperature). Regression models are suggested to relate variation of the NA to the temperature that was measured beside the web of one of the bridge girders. Repeatability analysis over 4 years was conducted, confirming that the NA varies cyclically over years. It is suggested that this variation indicates that there is a change in the degree of composite action assuming that cold temperatures will induce more connection between the steel girders and the concrete slab as a result of thermal contraction of the shear studs. In addition, the stiffness of the material could be affected due to change of temperature. The other possibility is that an axial force develops in the beam as a result of the bearing restraint during the passing of vehicles on the bridge. The results found in this study will eventually lead to enhancements of the design procedures that currently assume a fixed position of the NA over time of composite sections of bridges, similar to the bridges presented in this study.
Reciprocal actions of constrictor prostanoids and superoxide in chronic hypoxia‐induced pulmonary hypertension: roles of EETs
Authors: Kandhi Sharath , Alruwaili Norah , Wolin Michael S , Sun Dong , Huang An
Published: December 2019

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) are synthesized from arachidonic acid by CYP/epoxygenase and metabolized by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). Roles of EETs in hypoxia‐induced pulmonary hypertension (HPH) remain elusive. The present study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms, by which EETs potentiate HPH. Experiments were conducted on sEH knockout (sEH‐KO) and wild type (WT) mice after exposure to hypoxia (10% oxygen) for three weeks. In normal/normoxic conditions, WT and sEH‐KO mice exhibited comparable pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAAT), ejection time (ET), PAAT/ET ratio, and velocity time integral (VTI), along with similar right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP). Chronic hypoxia significantly reduced PAAT, ET, and VTI, coincided with an increase in RVSP; these impairments were more severe in sEH‐KO than WT mice. Hypoxia elicited downregulation of sEH and upregulation of CYP2C9 accompanied with elevation of CYP‐sourced superoxide, leading to enhanced pulmonary EETs in hypoxic mice with significantly higher levels in sEH‐KO mice. Isometric tension of isolated pulmonary arteries was recorded. In addition to downregulation of eNOS‐induced impairment of vasorelaxation to ACh, HPH mice displayed upregulation of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) receptor, paralleled with enhanced pulmonary vasocontraction to a TXA2 analog (U46619) in an sEH‐KO predominant manner. Inhibition of COX‐1 or COX‐2 significantly prevented the enhancement by ∼50% in both groups of vessels, and the remaining incremental components were eliminated by scavenging of superoxide with Tiron. In conclusion, hypoxia‐driven increases in EETs, intensified COXs/TXA2 signaling, great superoxide sourced from activated CYP2C9, and impaired NO bioavailability work in concert, to potentiate HPH development.
The relation between baseline PSA and symptomatic progression in Egyptian BPH patients receiving tamsulosin monotherapy: an exploratory multicentric prospective study
Authors: El-Adawy Mahmoud S. , Abdelaziz Ahmed Y. , Zanaty Fouad , Hodhod Amr , Moussa Ayman S. , Shaker Hossam A. , Aldaqadossi Hussien , Abdelhamid Mohamed H.
Published: December 2019

Background

To examine the relation of baseline serum prostatic-specific antigen (PSA) to symptomatic changes in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) receiving tamsulosin through its relation to changes in international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) and the occurrence of acute urine retention (AUR).

Results

We conducted a multicentric prospective cohort study. BPH patients were included from May 2015 till January 2018. We collected IPSS recording, prostate volume (PV) Qmax. After 2 years of medical treatment with tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily, full initial evaluation was repeated for all patients. Improvement in IPSS and Qmax was recorded and compared to initial PSA levels. Follow-up was aborted for patients who developed AUR. Moreover, the data of AUR patients were recorded and compared to initial PSA levels. The study included 437 Egyptian patients, and 414 patients (94.7%) had symptomatic improvement through the 2 years of follow-up on tamsulosin monotherapy. In total, 23 patients (5.3%) developed AUR during follow-up. There was a significant association between AUR and higher baseline PSA level (p < 0.001). On the other hand, statistical analysis showed that there was no significant correlation between baseline serum PSA and the improvement in IPSS (r = − 0.02, p = 0.684) or Qmax (r = − 0.06, p = 0.267). The multivariate analysis showed that baseline PSA and PV were independent predictors for AUR (p < 0.001 for both).

Conclusions

There was a significant relation between baseline PSA and incidence of AUR. However, there was no significant relationship between the serum PSA level and symptoms improvement in BPH.
Indications for extrahepatic bile duct resection due to perineural invasion in patients with gallbladder cancer
Authors: Maruyama Suguru , Kawaida Hiromichi , Hosomura Naohiro , Amemiya Hidetake , Saito Ryo , Shimizu Hiroki , Furuya Shinji , Akaike Hidenori , Kawaguchi Yoshihiko , Sudo Makoto , Inoue Shingo , Kono Hiroshi , Ichikawa Daisuke
Published: December 2019

Background

The indications for extrahepatic bile duct (EHBD) resection remain a major controversy in the surgical management of patients with gallbladder cancer. On the other hand, perineural invasion (PNI) was reported as an important factor in patients with gallbladder cancer because gallbladder cancer cells frequently spread to the tissues surrounding the EHBD via perineural routes. We assessed the correlation of PNI with clinicopathological factors in patients with gallbladder cancer to elucidate EHBD resection indications specifically in patients with PNI.

Methods

This retrospective study assessed the PNI status of 50 patients with gallbladder cancer who underwent curative resection and examined the correlation between the presence of PNI and clinicopathological factors.

Results

Thirteen patients (26%) were PNI positive. PNI was significantly correlated with male sex, proximal-type tumor, lymphatic and vascular invasion, and advanced T stage. Multivariate analysis found that PNI positivity (p< 0.001), lymphatic invasion (p= 0.007), and nodal stage (p< 0.001) were independent prognostic factors. PNI was never observed in patients with stage T1 cancer. Conversely, PNI was detected rarely in distal-type tumors, all of whom developed various types of recurrences.

Conclusions

These results clearly demonstrated the prognostic impact of PNI in patients with gallbladder cancer. We suggest that EHBD resection in combination with cholecystectomy may not be useful for distal-type tumors from a perspective of PNI.
DNA methylation profiles in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients treated with chemoimmunotherapy
Authors: Tsagiopoulou Maria , Papakonstantinou Nikos , Moysiadis Theodoros , Mansouri Larry , Ljungström Viktor , Duran-Ferrer Martí , Malousi Andigoni , Queirós Ana C. , Plevova Karla , Bhoi Sujata , Kollia Panagoula , Oscier David , Anagnostopoulos Achilles , Trentin Livio , Ritgen Matthias , Pospisilova Sarka , Stavroyianni Niki , Ghia Paolo , Martin-Subero Jose I. , Pott Christiane , Rosenquist Richard , Stamatopoulos Kostas
Published: December 2019

Background

In order to gain insight into the contribution of DNA methylation to disease progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), using 450K Illumina arrays, we determined the DNA methylation profiles in paired pre-treatment/relapse samples from 34 CLL patients treated with chemoimmunotherapy, mostly (n= 31) with the fludarabine-cyclophosphamide-rituximab (FCR) regimen.

Results

The extent of identified changes in CLL cells versus memory B cells from healthy donors was termed “epigenetic burden” (EB) whereas the number of changes between the pre-treatment versus the relapse sample was termed “relapse changes” (RC). Significant (p< 0.05) associations were identified between (i) high EB and short time-to-first-treatment (TTFT); and, (ii) few RCs and short time-to-relapse. Both the EB and the RC clustered in specific genomic regions and chromatin states, including regulatory regions containing binding sites of transcription factors implicated in B cell and CLL biology.

Conclusions

Overall, we show that DNA methylation in CLL follows different dynamics in response to chemoimmunotherapy. These epigenetic alterations were linked with specific clinical and biological features.
Fetal growth outcomes following peri-implantation exposure of Long-Evans rats to noise and ozone differ by sex
Authors: Miller Colette N. , Kodavanti Urmila P. , Stewart Erica J. , Schladweiler Mette C. , Richards Judy H. , Snow Samantha J. , Henriquez Andres R. , Oshiro Wendy M. , Farraj Aimen K. , Hazari Mehdi S. , Dye Janice A.
Published: December 2019

Background

Exposure to air pollution and high levels of noise have both been independently associated with the development of adverse pregnancy outcomes including low birth weight. However, exposure to such environmental stressors rarely occurs in isolation and is often co-localized, especially in large urban areas.

Methods

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of combined exposure to noise (N) or ozone (O3), compared to either exposure alone. Long-Evans dams were exposed to air or 0.4 ppm ozone for 4 h on gestation day (GD) 5 and 6, coinciding with implantation receptivity. A subset of dams from each exposure group was further exposed to intermittent white noise (~ 85 dB) throughout the dark cycle following each inhalation exposure (n = 14 − 16/group). Uterine artery ultrasound was performed on GD 15 and 21. Fetal growth characteristics and indicators of placental nutrient status were measured at GD 21.

Results

Exposure to ozone + quiet (O3 + Q) conditions reduced uterine arterial resistance at GD 15 compared to air + quiet (A + Q) exposure, with no further reduction by GD 21. By contrast, exposure to air + noise (A + N) significantly increased uterine arterial resistance at both GD 15 and 21. Notably, while peri-implantation exposure to O3 + Q conditions reduced male fetal weight at GD 21, this effect was not observed in the air + noise (A + N) or the ozone + noise (O3 + N) exposure groups. Fetal weight in female offspring was not reduced by ozone exposure alone (O3 + Q), nor was it affected by air + noise (A + N) or by combined ozone + noise (O3 + N) exposure.

Conclusions

These data indicate that exposure to ozone and noise differentially impact uterine blood flow, particularly at mid-gestation, with only ozone exposure being associated with sex-dependent fetal growth retardation in male offspring.
Sex-specific association between the cortisol awakening response and obsessive-compulsive symptoms in healthy individuals
Authors: Melia Cristian Sebastian , Soria Virginia , Salvat-Pujol Neus , Cabezas Ángel , Nadal Roser , Urretavizcaya Mikel , Gutiérrez-Zotes Alfonso , Monreal José Antonio , Crespo José Manuel , Alonso Pino , Vilella Elisabet , Palao Diego , Menchón José Manuel , Labad Javier
Published: December 2019

Background

Previous studies have shown associations between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity (HPA). We aimed to investigate the association between obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms and HPA axis functionality in a non-clinical sample and to explore whether there are sex differences in this relationship.

Methods

One hundred eighty-three healthy individuals without any psychiatric diagnosis (80 men, 103 women; mean age 41.3 ± 17.9 years) were recruited from the general population. The Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory Revised (OCI-R) was used to assess OC symptoms. State-trait anxiety, perceived stress, and stressful life events were also assessed. Saliva cortisol levels were determined at 6 time points (awakening, 30 and 60 min post-awakening, 10:00 a.m., 23:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. the following day of 0.25 mg dexamethasone intake [that occurred at 23:00 p.m.]). Three HPA axis measures were calculated: cortisol awakening response (CAR), cortisol diurnal slope, and cortisol suppression ratio after dexamethasone (DSTR). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to explore the association between OC symptoms and HPA axis measures while adjusting for covariates. Our main analyses were focused on OCI-R total score, but we also explored associations with specific OC symptom dimensions.

Results

No significant differences were observed between males and females in OC symptoms, anxiety measures, stress, or cortisol measures. In the multiple linear regression analyses between overall OC symptoms and HPA axis measures, a female sex by OC symptoms significant interaction (standardized beta = − 0.322; p = 0.023) for the CAR (but not cortisol diurnal slope nor DSTR) was found. Regarding specific symptom dimensions, two other sex interactions were found: a blunted CAR was associated with obsessing symptoms in women, whereas a more flattened diurnal cortisol slope was associated with ordering symptoms in men.

Conclusions

There are sex differences in the association between OC symptoms and HPA axis measures in healthy individuals.
miR-1/206 downregulates splicing factor Srsf9 to promote C2C12 differentiation
Authors: Bjorkman Kristen K. , Buvoli Massimo , Pugach Emily K. , Polmear Michael M. , Leinwand Leslie A.
Published: December 2019

Background

Myogenesis is driven by specific changes in the transcriptome that occur during the different stages of muscle differentiation. In addition to controlled transcriptional transitions, several other post-transcriptional mechanisms direct muscle differentiation. Both alternative splicing and miRNA activity regulate gene expression and production of specialized protein isoforms. Importantly, disruption of either process often results in severe phenotypes as reported for several muscle diseases. Thus, broadening our understanding of the post-transcriptional pathways that operate in muscles will lay the foundation for future therapeutic interventions.

Methods

We employed bioinformatics analysis in concert with the well-established C2C12 cell system for predicting and validating novel miR-1 and miR-206 targets engaged in muscle differentiation. We used reporter gene assays to test direct miRNA targeting and studied C2C12 cells stably expressing one of the cDNA candidates fused to a heterologous, miRNA-resistant 3′ UTR. We monitored effects on differentiation by measuring fusion index, myotube area, and myogenic gene expression during time course differentiation experiments.

Results

Gene ontology analysis revealed a strongly enriched set of putative miR-1 and miR-206 targets associated with RNA metabolism. Notably, the expression levels of several candidates decreased during C2C12 differentiation. We discovered that the splicing factor Srsf9 is a direct target of both miRNAs during myogenesis. Persistent Srsf9 expression during differentiation impaired myotube formation and blunted induction of the early pro-differentiation factor myogenin as well as the late differentiation marker sarcomeric myosin, Myh8.

Conclusions

Our data uncover novel miR-1 and miR-206 cellular targets and establish a functional link between the splicing factor Srsf9 and myoblast differentiation. The finding that miRNA-mediated clearance of Srsf9 is a key myogenic event illustrates the coordinated and sophisticated interplay between the diverse components of the gene regulatory network.
Analysis of preferences of agro-pastoralists for the attributes of traction dromedaries in harness cultivation: A case study of the Koro district of Mali
Authors: Traoré Bakary , Govoeyi Benoit , Hamadou Issa , Geda Fikremariam , Touré Abdoulaye , Ouologuem Bara , Leroy Pascal , Antoine-Moussiaux Nicolas , Moula Nassim
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to characterize agro-pastoralists’ preferences in dromedary rearing in the Koro district of Mali, which has experienced a decade of spontaneous development in using dromedaries for harnessed cultivation. Five criteria for assessment of dromedary types used for traction were identified through nine focus group discussions. The assessment criteria developed and estimated rates were the morphological characteristics (23.2%), disease resistance (14.1%), work attitude (26.3%), colour of the coat (25.3%) and docility (11.1%). A multi-attribute analysis method was applied with 115 dromedary owners. Conditional logit was used to estimate utility function and willingness to pay (WTP) for different attributes. Work attitude seems to be an important parameter for decision-making with a WTP amounting to 558.94 euros (614.94 USD). Disease resistance comes second position in decision-making for the selection of dromedaries, with a WTP of 348.77 euros (383.40 USD). To a lesser extent, the white coat with a WTP in the order of 54.45 euros (59.86 USD) intervenes in agro-pastoral decision-making. The agro-pastoralists have a strong reluctance for the dark brown coat. In conclusion, the present results showed that further studies should be conducted on materials and traction technologies to promote harnessed cultivation by dromedaries to preserve and strengthen the multi-functional nature of the dromedary.
Rhinovirus species and tonsillar immune responses
Authors: Mikola Emilia , Palomares Oscar , Turunen Riitta , Waris Matti , Ivaska Lotta E. , Silvoniemi Antti , Puhakka Tuomo , Rückert Beate , Vuorinen Tytti , Akdis Mübeccel , Akdis Cezmi A. , Jartti Tuomas
Published: December 2019

Background

Rhinovirus A and C infections are important contributors to asthma induction and exacerbations. No data exist on the interaction of local immune responses in rhinovirus infection. Therefore, we aimed to determine the tonsillar immune responses according to rhinovirus A, B and C infections.

Methods

We collected tonsillar samples, nasopharyngeal aspirates and peripheral blood from 42 rhinovirus positive tonsillectomy patients. Fifteen respiratory viruses or their types were investigated from nasopharynx and tonsil tissue, and rhinovirus species were typed. The expression of 10 cytokines and 4 transcription factors (IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17, IL-28, IL-29, IL-37, TGF-β, FOXP3, GATA3, RORC2 and Tbet) were studied from tonsil tissue by quantitative PCR. A standard questionnaire of respiratory symptoms and health was filled by the patient or his/her guardian. The patients were divided into three groups by the determination of rhinovirus species.

Results

Overall, 16 patients had rhinovirus A, 12 rhinovirus B and 14 rhinovirus C infection. In rhinovirus B positive group there were significantly less men (P = 0.0072), less operated in spring (P = 0.0096) and more operated in fall (P = 0.030) than in rhinovirus A or C groups. Rhinovirus A positive patients had more respiratory symptoms (P = 0.0074) and particularly rhinitis (P = 0.036) on the operation day. There were no significant differences between the groups in virus codetection. In adjusted analysis, rhinovirus C infections were associated with increased IFN-α (P = 0.045) and decreased RORC2 expression (P = 0.025).

Conclusions

Rhinovirus species associated differently with clinical characteristics and tonsillar cytokine responses.
Nine types of recommendations, guidelines and policies: an exploratory test of a proposed typology of physical activity promotion documents
Authors: Gelius Peter , Messing Sven , Abu-Omar Karim
Published: December 2019

Background

The field of physical activity abounds with recommendations, guidelines, action plans and other documents published by experts, organizations and institutions at the national and international level. However, working with these documents is difficult since similar names (e.g. “recommendations”) may be used to label substantially different contents, while identical topics may hide behind different monikers (e.g. “guidelines” and “strategy”).

Methods

We built on an existing framework conceptualizing categories of physical activity evidence and on the Doern continuum for policy instruments to develop a nine-field matrix that classifies physical activity-related publications based on their evidence type and degree of coercion. We used a selection of eleven physical activity documents to perform an exploratory test of the functions and utility of the typology.

Results

Placing central physical activity documents into the typology shows that recommendations, guidelines, and policies are found across the entire matrix, regardless of their denomination. It also suggests that some documents transcend boundaries between types by falling into more than one category, and that some categories may be underrepresented in current physical activity promotion.

Conclusions

A typology to classify physical activity guidelines, recommendations, and policies can help us acquire a better overview of the landscape of existing physical activity documents than simple distinctions based on document names. It may guide both current initiatives and future development work in the field. It could also serve as a point of departure for future research, as conducting systematic overviews of the literature based on this typology may help reveal important gaps in current physical activity promotion.
Predictors for vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecium transforming from colonization to infection: a case control study
Authors: Chen Pao-Yu , Chuang Yu-Chung , Wang Jann-Tay , Sheng Wang-Huei , Chen Yee-Chun , Chang Shan-Chwen
Published: December 2019

Background

Little is known about risk factors for subsequent infections among vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) colonizers, especially characterized by concordant pulsotypes (CP) of paired colonization and infection-related isolates.

Methods

This case-control study was conducted at a teaching hospital between 2011 and 2014. Targeted patients received active surveillance culture for VREfm by anal swabs at admission. Cases were those who developed VREfm infection within 180 days after colonization of VREfm. Controls were those colonized with VREfm without subsequent VREfm infection. CP were defined by similarities ≥86.7% using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis between paired colonization and infection-related isolates.

Results

Ninety-seven cases and 194 controls were enrolled. By conditional multivariable logistic regression analysis, the risk factors for subsequent infection among VREfm colonizers were intensive care unit (ICU) admission (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 9.32; 95% CI, 3.61–24.02), receipt of central venous catheters (CVC) (aOR, 3.38; 95% CI, 1.30–8.82), and utilization of third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins (aOR, 4.06; 95% CI, 1.79–9.20, and aOR, 5.32; 95% CI, 1.85– 10.29, respectively) (all P ≤ 0.01). Fifty-six (57.7%) of case patients belonged to the CP group, which were associated with ICU admission (aOR, 3.74; 95% CI, 1.38–10.13), and infection developing within 30 days after colonization (aOR, 3.34; 95% CI, 1.25–8.91).

Conclusions

Among VREfm colonizers, being admitted to ICU and receiving CVC or broad spectrum cephalosporins, were the risk factors for subsequent infections. These findings highlight the importance of conducting more strict infection control measures on specific groups of VREfm colonizers.
Quantifying the links between geochemical and geophysical properties of organic-rich carbonate mudrocks
Authors: Sengupta Mita , Jacobi David , Altowairqi Yazeed , Al-Sinan Salma
Published: December 2019

Source rocks possess complex heterogeneous matrices with soft organic matter, consisting mainly of kerogen, interspersed within a stiff inorganic mineral framework that varies in composition. There is not a clear understanding nor adequate knowledge of how geochemical properties influence the rock physics, especially when predicting a seismic response. While many attempts have been made to use seismic to empirically quantify these properties for the purpose of exploration, those attempts have often failed due to the complexity of the elastic properties of kerogen and the laminated geometry of the rock. This is due primarily to uncertainty over how these properties change with maturity as a result of burial and subsequent uplift. Therefore, knowledge of (1) the elastic properties of kerogen, (2) the amount and geometric distribution of organic matter within the rock matrix, and (3) the impact of kerogen maturity on its elastic properties is needed to predict a seismic response. An elastic property modeling method has been developed to address this challenge based on the integration of high-resolution microscopy, geochemical analysis, and velocity measurements. Using this approach, endmembers are obtained that allow for building rock-physics models that can predict elastic uncertainty from mineral heterogeneity and estimate the elastic properties of organic matter. Digital images, geochemical data, and velocity measurements coupled with maturity modeling suggest that bulk and shear softening of kerogen can help distinguish between maturity-induced seismic responses.
Memorial
Authors: Ebrom Dan , Gumble Jason
Published: December 2019

Robert Haines Tatham (1943–2019)
Unpacking Trial Offers and Low Accrual Rates: A Qualitative Analysis of Clinic Visits With Physicians and Patients Potentially Eligible for a Prostate Cancer Clinical Trial
Authors: Hamel Lauren M. , Dougherty David W. , Albrecht Terrance L. , Wojda Mark , Jordan Alice , Moore Tanina F. , Senft Nicole , Carducci Michael , Heath Elisabeth I. , Manning Mark A. , Penner Louis A. , Kim Seongho , Eggly Susan
Published: December 2019

PURPOSE:

Cancer clinical trial accrual rates are low, and information about contributing factors is needed. We examined video-recorded clinical interactions to identify circumstances under which patients potentially eligible for a trial at a major cancer center were offered a trial.

METHODS:

We conducted a qualitative directed content analysis of 62 recorded interactions with physicians (n = 13) and patients with intermediate- or high-risk prostate cancer (n = 43). Patients were screened and potentially eligible for a trial. We observed and coded the interactions in 3 steps: (1) classification of all interactions as explicit offer, offer pending, trial discussed/not offered, or trial not discussed; (2) in interactions with no explicit offer, classification of whether the cancer had progressed; (3) in interactions classified as progression but no trial offered, identification of factors discussed that may explain the lack of an offer.

RESULTS:

Of the 62 interactions, 29% were classified as explicit offer, 12% as offer pending, 18% as trial discussed/not offered, and 39% as trial not discussed. Of those with no offer, 57% included information that the cancer had not progressed. In 68% of the remaining interactions with patients whose cancer had progressed but did not receive an offer, reasons for the lack of offer were identified, but in 32%, no explanation was provided.

CONCLUSION:

Even in optimal circumstances, few patients were offered a trial, often because their cancer had not progressed. Findings support professional recommendations to broaden trial inclusion criteria. Findings suggest accrual rates should reflect the proportion of eligible patients who enroll.
Dialectic ofIjtihad
Authors: Landry Jean-Michel
Published: December 2019

In recent years, the problem of gender-based custody allocation has sparked intense mobilization across the Middle East. In Lebanon, Sunni and Shi‘i citizens led two parallel campaigns to modify the sharia-derived norms enforced in custody disputes. Their efforts produced perplexing results: while Sunnis extended the duration of maternal custody, the Shi‘a failed to bring about even a modicum of change to judiciary practice. This essay argues that understanding this difference in outcomes requires shifting the analytical focus away from religious doctrines and codification issues and toward the political apparatuses in which Islamic jurisprudences are embedded. Drawing on ethnographic research, Landry asks how the secular state helps construct the religious laws applied in its family courts. In pursuing this question, he shows that under current conditions, judges' practice of ijtihad (scripture-based reasoning) often hinders legal change instead of facilitating it.
Drivers across the Desert
Authors: Koyagi Mikiya
Published: December 2019

This article examines the making and unmaking of an infrastructural system in the Indo-Iranian borderlands, an area that is often overlooked in an area studies paradigm. In particular, it focuses on the infrastructural network that developed following World War I with the Iranian border town of Dozdab/Zahedan as a nodal point. The article explores two interrelated issues. First, it looks at the role of British strategic interests in shaping infrastructural development, which significantly influenced the direction and kind of movement promoted in the borderlands. Second, through the case of the rise and decline of Sikh migrant communities in eastern Iran, it examines how the borderlands came into being in the absence of strong state authorities. It argues that the prosperity of Sikh migrants depended on the new infrastructural system, which in turn depended on the precarious codependency between the Iranian state, the British authorities, and Sikh drivers and traders. During the 1920s, despite the British and Iranian ambivalence toward border crossers, Sikhs thrived while participating in global networks of Indian anticolonialists. Albeit temporarily, they managed to invite the interventions of competing state authorities as they saw fit, illustrating how erratic narratives marked the emergence of territorialized nation-states in the borderlands.
Atypical appearance of elastofibroma dorsi at thoracotomy sites: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Girvin Francis , Hoda Syed , Kim Stacy
Published: December 2019

Thus far, only a single case describing an atypical appearance of elastofibroma dorsi at a prior thoracotomy site has been published in the literature. We describe a series of three cases recently imaged at our institution with the same atypical appearance, in order to highlight and increase recognition of this more unusual morphology in post-operative patients.
Outcomes following total elbow arthroplasty for rheumatoid arthritis versus post-traumatic conditions
Authors: Wang Jou-Hua , Ma Hsuan-Hsiao , Chou Te-Feng A. , Tsai Shang-Wen , Chen Cheng-Fong , Wu Po-Kuei , Chen Wei-Ming
Published: December 2019

Aims

The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the outcome of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) undertaken for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with TEA performed for post-traumatic conditions with regard to implant failure, functional outcome, and perioperative complications.

Materials and Methods

We completed a comprehensive literature search on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library and conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nine cohort studies investigated the outcome of TEA between RA and post-traumatic conditions. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)) guidelines and Newcastle-Ottawa scale were applied to assess the quality of the included studies. We assessed three major outcome domains: implant failures (including aseptic loosening, septic loosening, bushing wear, axle failure, component disassembly, or component fracture); functional outcomes (including arc of range of movement, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire), and perioperative complications (including deep infection, intraoperative fracture, postoperative fracture, and ulnar neuropathy).

Results

This study included a total of 679 TEAs for RA (n = 482) or post-traumatic conditions (n = 197). After exclusion, all of the TEAs included in this meta-analysis were cemented with linked components. Our analysis demonstrated that the RA group was associated with a higher risk of septic loosening after TEA (odds ratio (OR) 3.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11 to 14.12), while there was an increased risk of bushing wear, axle failure, component disassembly, or component fracture in the post-traumatic group (OR 4.72, 95% CI 2.37 to 9.35). A higher MEPS (standardized mean difference 0.634, 95% CI 0.379 to 0.890) was found in the RA group. There were no significant differences in arc of range of movement, DASH questionnaire, and risk of aseptic loosening, deep infection, perioperative fracture, or ulnar neuropathy.

Conclusion

The aetiology of TEA surgery appears to have an impact on the outcome in terms of specific modes of implant failures. RA patients might have a better functional outcome after TEA surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1489–1497