bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of RNase J leads to multi-drug tolerance and accumulation of highly structured mRNA fragments in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Martini Maria Carla , Hicks Nathan D. , Xiao Junpei , Barbier Thibault , Sixsmith Jaimie , Fortune Sarah M. , Shell Scarlet S.
Published: February 2022

Despite the existence of well-characterized, canonical mutations that confer high-level drug resistance to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), there is evidence that drug resistance mechanisms are more complex than simple acquisition of such mutations. Recent studies have shown that Mtb can acquire non-canonical resistance-associated mutations that confer survival advantages in the presence of certain drugs, likely acting as stepping-stones for acquisition of high-level resistance. Rv2752c/rnj, encoding RNase J, is disproportionately mutated in drug-resistant clinical Mtb isolates. Here we show that deletion of rnj confers increased tolerance to lethal concentrations of several drugs. RNAseq revealed that RNase J affects expression of a subset of genes enriched for PE/PPE genes and stable RNAs and is key for proper 23S rRNA maturation. Gene expression differences implicated two sRNAs and ppe50-ppe51 as important contributors to the drug tolerance phenotype. In addition, we found that in the absence of RNase J, many short RNA fragments accumulate because they are degraded at slower rates. We show that the accumulated transcript fragments are targets of RNase J and are characterized by strong secondary structure and high G+C content, indicating that RNase J has a rate-limiting role in degradation of highly structured RNAs. Taken together, our results demonstrate that RNase J indirectly affects drug tolerance, as well as reveal the endogenous roles of RNase J in mycobacterial RNA metabolism.
The Yeast Lifespan Machine: a microfluidic platform for automated replicative lifespan measurements
Authors: Thayer Nathaniel H. , Robles Michael , Xu Jun , Schinski Elizabeth L. , Hotz Manuel , Keyser Robert , Millett-Sikking Alfred , Okreglak Voytek , Rogers Jason V. , Waite Adam J. , Wranik Bernd J. , York Andrew G. , McIsaac R. Scott , Gottschling Daniel E.
Published: February 2022

The budding yeast,Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has emerged as a model system for studying the aging processes in eukaryotic cells. However, the full complement of tools available in this organism has not been fully applied, in part because of limitations in throughput that restrict the ability to carry out detailed analyses. Recent advances in microfluidics have provided direct longitudinal observation of entire yeast lifespans, but have not yet achieved the normal scale of operation possible in this model system. Here we present a microfluidic platform, called the Yeast Lifespan Machine, where we combine improvements in microfluidics, image acquisition, and image analysis tools to increase robustness and throughput of lifespan measurements in aging yeast cells. We demonstrate the platform’s ability to measure the lifespan of large populations of cells and distinguish long- and short-lived mutants, all with minimal involvement of the experimenter. We also show that environmental pH is capable of significantly modulating lifespan depending on the growth media, highlighting how microfluidic technologies reveal determinants of lifespan that are otherwise difficult to ascertain.
Insights on structure and interactions of 2-amino-4-methoxy-6-methylpyrimidinium salts with 4-aminosalicylate and 5-chlorosalicylate: a combined experimental and theoretical charge–density analysis
Authors: Suresh Suganya , Kandasamy Saravanan , Balasubramanian Hemalatha , Ramakrishnan Jaganathan , Poomani Kumaradhas
Published: February 2022

The proton-transfer complexes 2-amino-4-methoxy-6-methylpyrimidinium (2A4M6MP) 4-aminosalicylate (4AMSA), C6H10N3O+·C7H6NO3
−, I, and 5-chlorosalicylate (5ClSA), C6H10N3O+·C7H4ClO3
−, II, were synthesized by slow evaporation and crystallized. The crystal structures of both I and II were determined by single-crystal X-ray structure analysis. The crystal structures of both salts exhibit O—H...O, N—H...O, N—H...N and C—H...O interactions in their crystals. The 4AMSA and 5ClSA anions in combination with the 2A4M6MP cations form distinct synthons, which are represented by the graph-set notations R
2
2(8), R
4
2(8) and R
2
2(8). Furthermore, the ΔpK

a
values were calculated and clearly demonstrate that 2A4M6MP is a good salt former when combined with carboxylic acids. Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to quantify the weak and strong interactions in the solid state, and energy framework calculations showed the stability of the hydrogen-bonding interactions. QTAIM (quantum theory of atoms in molecules) analysis revealed the nature of the chemical bonding in I and II, and the charge–density distribution in the intermolecular interactions in the crystal structures.
The stereotype of accountants: using a personality approach to assess the perspectives of laypeople
Authors: Leão Fernanda , Gomes Delfina
Published: February 2022

Purpose

In the context of Portugal, this study examines the stereotypes of accountants held by laypeople and how they are influenced by financial crises and accounting scandals.

Design/methodology/approach

To better understand the social images of accountants, the authors adopt a structural approach based on the big five model (BFM) of personality. The authors test this approach on a Portuguese community sample (N = 727) using a questionnaire survey. The results are analyzed considering the socioanalytic theory.

Findings

The results suggest the existence of a stereotype dominated by features of conscientiousness, which is related to the superior performance of work tasks across job types. This feature comprises the core characteristics of the traditional accountant stereotype, which survives in a context challenged by financial scandals and crises. The findings highlight the social acceptance of accountants as an occupational group but do not suggest the possibility of accountants benefiting from the highest levels of social status when considered in relation to the traditional accountant stereotype.

Originality/value

By combining the BFM and the socioanalytic theory, this study provides a unique theoretical approach to better understand the social images of accountants. The findings demonstrate the suitability of using the BFM to study the social perceptions of accountants. They also indicate a paradox based on the survival of the traditional stereotype. This stereotype appears to be resistant to scandals and financial crisis, instead of being impaired, giving rise to another prototype with concerns about integrity.
Pemex: oil price and financial management in the context of elevated fiscal burden
Authors: Tacuba Angélica
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The article analyzes how oil price fluctuations are reflected in the management of Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) based on its balance sheet (BS) and particularly how oil price fluctuations affect Pemex's corporate income.

Design/methodology/approach

The author uses a vector auto-regressive (VAR) model with seven variables for the period 1977–2019. The first variable is the oil price and the others belong to Pemex's BS: total income, sales revenue, operating costs, investment, payment of taxes, duties and contributions (TDC) and the payment of interest on debt.

Findings

The results show that in an environment of elevated fiscal burden that is of an excessive payment of tax by Pemex to the state, the price increases positively affected the income obtained from sales, but that surplus is used primarily to finance the fiscal expenses coming from the TDC, which is associated with the production and commercialization of hydrocarbons; physical and financial investment is disconnected from the evolution of price. Under a fiscal scheme that extracts, on average, 98.46% of Pemex's income, investment is not a priority.

Practical implications

The findings of the research have important implications for Mexico's energy policy because of affecting the long-term financial and productive sustainability of Pemex.

Originality/value

First, the study contributes to the literature on oil prices in Mexico by analyzing Pemex's fiscal burden from a corporate finance perspective, an area in which there are few rigorous studies. Second, the study contributes by providing quantitative support for the relationship between oil prices and BS variables through the VAR model.
Teaching for Social Mathematics: Exploring the Collaborative Roles of Social Studies and Mathematics Educators
Authors: Thompson Tony
Published: February 2022

Citizens today are inundated with quantitative information in an information-rich world. However, students rarely get the opportunity to use mathematics to explore social issues— a concept known as Social Mathematics. Social Mathematics should be an important part of students’ K-12 experiences and is fundamental in preparing our students for active citizenship in a democratic society. This feature makes the case that social mathematics is an important but often neglected area of social studies and mathematics education, and improving students’ knowledge in this area requires the collaborative efforts of both social studies and mathematics teachers. A variety of strategies and resources for interdisciplinary collaboration between social studies and mathematics teachers is provided.
Why Vote? Whose Voice Is Viable, and Who Is Vulnerable?
Authors: Christensen Lois McFadyen
Published: February 2022

Just as the fall of the year itself undergoes a transformation, frequently the season conjures up the notion of new beginnings—of change. Besides the detaching, accumulating, and blowing of autumn’s multi-colored leaves, the ripe and over-ripe bounty of summer’s growth is ready to harvest. A shift of the November wind’s flow, too, stirs a sense of readiness for change. November evokes a time for deliberation about voting that sometimes signifies change and new beginnings or perhaps signals transformation. A desire for change is often the catalyst for casting a ballot. Voting is repeatedly upheld as a privilege and a right of people living in freedom within a democracy. Is it really? What is freedom exactly? Where did the idea of voting begin?
MoveAhead: lessons in pragmatism for an idealistic social-entrepreneur
Authors: Lakshminarayanan Sambhavi , Best Simon , Maggio Evelyn
Published: February 2022

Theoretical basis

There is little published information available in the area of youth programs and social entrepreneurship in underrepresented communities. However, there are many idealistic entrepreneurs in the community; the case describes the experience of one such individual. Case analysis and the Instructor’s Manual are based on standard theories and techniques in organizational environmental and strategy analysis, as well as information and approaches regarding nonprofit functioning.

Research methodology

This case was prepared from primary sources, based on interviews with the founder. The name of the organization was disguised but the location and the founder’s name were not.

Case overview/synopsis

Growing up in a rough neighborhood, Darnell found refuge in an after-school program, which he credited for several positive values. As an adult, he felt a strong desire to give back to the community he had grown up, and still lived in. Thus, was launched MoveAhead, a fitness-based after-school program similar to the one he had participated in. However, as was common for many social entrepreneurs, Darnell struggled to overcome severe lack of capital and to deal with operational issues. Now, MoveAhead had reached a critical and existentially important point, when a strategic decision had to be made.

Complexity academic level

This is a decision case. It discusses the difficulties faced by a social entrepreneur who had a strong drive and conviction but little capital. The case describes a strategic turning point for one such organization. It can be used in business and management courses at the undergraduate level. It would also be relevant to a course on (social) entrepreneurship. The level and analysis required of students and discussion questions used can be adjusted depending on whether the course is introductory or more advanced, such as strategy.
Keeping Fit in Later Medieval England: Exercise for Man and Beast
Authors: Rawcliffe Carole
Published: February 2022

This article begins by exploring ideas about physical exercise as outlined in the advice literature that circulated widely in late medieval and early sixteenth‐century England. Whereas other aspects of these popular guides to health have attracted considerable interest on the part of medical and cultural historians, recommendations about exercise have been largely neglected. Yet it was deemed essential for both physical and mental wellbeing. Its principal function was to augment and redistribute the body's innate heat, which functioned as ‘Nature's primary instrument’, while improving digestion and the elimination of waste, encouraging restorative sleep, and combatting stress. These ideas spread rapidly throughout society, being harnessed to suit the practical needs of many classes of people, especially after the Black Death when keeping fit became a priority. Not even animals could escape current assumptions about the importance of remaining active, while political theorists emphasised the need to purge idle and unproductive elements from the communal body.
Obstetric capacity strengthening in Ghana results in wide geographic distribution and retention of certified Obstetrician/Gynaecologists: A quantitative analysis
Authors: Kekulawala Melani , Samba Ali , Braunschweig Yael , Plange‐Rhule Jacob , Turpin Cornelius , Johnson Timothy R. B. , Anderson Frank W. J.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To determine the cumulative retention of Obstetricians/Gynaecologists (Ob/Gyns) since the inception of the Ghana postgraduate Ob/Gyn programmes, to determine the demographic and practice characteristics of all Ob/Gyns who have been trained, and to compare the geographic distribution of Ob/Gyns throughout Ghana between 2010, when a previous study was conducted, and the current practice locations of all graduates in 2017.

Design

Cross‐sectional, quantitative investigation.

Setting

Fieldwork for this study was conducted in Ghana between 21 June 2017 and 20 August 2017.

Methods

A roster of certified Ob/Gyns, year certified and email contact information was obtained from the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, a roster of practice locations was obtained from Ghana Medical Board.

Main outcome measures

Retention of Ob/Gyns, geographic distribution of providers and comparison of geographic spread between 2010 and 2017 practice locations.

Results

Significant geographic spread and increase in in‐country medical programmes have occurred over the 7‐year period. In recent years, Ob/Gyn certifications through the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons have significantly increased.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons created a national certification opportunity that made Ob/Gyn certification more accessible. This provides a cadre of certified Ob/Gyns that can be trained and retained in low‐income settings, and allows for long‐term commitment in multiple relevant sectors that may serve to establish a comprehensive obstetric and gynaecology capacity beyond urban centres.
Risk Assessment of the Water Resources Carrying Capacity: A Case Study in North China
Authors: Han Yan , Zhang Shifeng , Lv Aifeng , Zeng Huiping
Published: February 2022

Evaluating the water resources carrying capacity (WRCC) is the prerequisite and foundation for the planning and management of water resources. In this paper, according to risk theory, a framework for the risk assessment of WRCC was proposed based on the fragility of damage‐affected bodies and the damage posed by disaster‐inducing factors. Then, based on water quantity, water quality, water area, and water flow, a fragility index system was constructed from the water resources, economy, and society category. Additionally, the damage was analyzed in terms of climate change, urbanization, and industrialization. Finally, a model for the risk assessment of the WRCC was established by combining the fragility of the water resources carrying system with the compound damage posed by climate change, urbanization, and industrialization. The developed model was then applied to assess the risk of the WRCC in North China in 2017. The results indicate that the fragility of the WRCC was the highest in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, and the compound damage showed an increasing trend from the southeast to the northwest in North China. Meanwhile, the risk of the WRCC decreased from the southeast to the northwest, the highest risk was observed in Hebei Province, and the lowest risk was observed in Inner Mongolia. This research provides an important technical guideline for the sustainable utilization of water resources and the coordinated development of the economy and society.
Saving the face of the Arabah
Authors: KAMINER MATAN
Published: February 2022

Since the 1990s, Israeli agricultural settlements in the remote Central Arabah region have relied heavily on the cheap labor power of Thai migrant workers. Yet the agrarian settler‐colonial movement to which these settlers belong has historically rejected such “foreign labor” as a moral threat to the collective. Thai employees are thus enjoined not only to plant and pick vegetables in sweltering greenhouses, but also to enlist their own cultural resources to perform the tactful, implicit work of maintaining the settlement's public “face” as a pioneering, self‐supported Jewish community. The result, both at work and in public spaces, is a fragile, asymmetrical cultural intimacy, subtended by a convenient one‐sided misunderstanding which reflects the racial‐capitalist world‐system in which it is embedded. [agriculture,cultural intimacy,colonialism,community,facework,labor,migration,Thailand,Israel]
Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii in pig‐hunting dogs from north Queensland, Australia
Authors: Orr B , Malik R , Westman ME , Norris JM
Published: February 2022

The causative agent of Q fever, Coxiella burnetii, is endemic to Queensland and is one of the most important notifiable zoonotic diseases in Australia. The reservoir species for C. burnetii are classically ruminants, including sheep, cattle and goats. There is increasing evidence of C. burnetii exposure in dogs across eastern and central Australia. The present study aimed to determine if pig‐hunting dogs above the Tropic of Capricorn in Queensland had similar rates of C. burnetii exposure to previous serosurveys of companion dogs in rural north‐west New South Wales. A total of 104 pig‐hunting dogs had serum IgG antibody titres to phase I and phase 2 C. burnetii determined using an indirect immunofluorescence assay test. Almost one in five dogs (18.3%; 19/104; 95% confidence interval 9.6%–35.5%) were seropositive to C. burnetii, with neutered dogs more likely to test positive compared to entire dogs (P = 0.0497). Seropositivity of the sampled pig‐hunting dogs was one of the highest recorded in Australia. Thirty‐nine owners of the pig‐hunting dogs completed a survey, revealing 12.8% (5/39) had been vaccinated against Q fever and 90% (35/39) were aware that both feral pigs and dogs could potentially be sources of C. burnetii. Our findings indicate that pig hunters should be aware of the risk of exposure to Q fever during hunts and the sentinel role their dogs may play in C. burnetii exposure.
Functional extracellular matrix hydrogel modified with MSC‐derived small extracellular vesicles for chronic wound healing
Authors: Ma Shiqing , Hu Han , Wu Jinzhe , Li Xuewen , Ma Xinying , Zhao Zhezhe , Liu Zihao , Wu Chenxuan , Zhao Bo , Wang Yonglan , Jing Wei
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Diabetic wound healing remains a global challenge in the clinic and in research. However, the current medical dressings are difficult to meet the demands. The primary goal of this study was to fabricate a functional hydrogel wound dressing that can provide an appropriate microenvironment and supplementation with growth factors to promote skin regeneration and functional restoration in diabetic wounds.

Materials and Methods

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) were bound to the porcine small intestinal submucosa‐based hydrogel material through peptides (SC‐Ps‐sEVs) to increase the content and achieve a sustained release. NIH3T3 cell was used to evaluate the biocompatibility and the promoting proliferation, migration and adhesion abilities of the SC‐Ps‐sEVs. EA.hy926 cell was used to evaluate the stimulating angiogenesis of SC‐Ps‐sEVs. The diabetic wound model was used to investigate the function/role of SC‐Ps‐sEVs hydrogel in promoting wound healing.

Results

A functional hydrogel wound dressing with good mechanical properties, excellent biocompatibility and superior stimulating angiogenesis capacity was designed and facilely fabricated, which could effectively enable full‐thickness skin wounds healing in diabetic rat model.

Conclusions

This work led to the development of SIS, which shows an unprecedented combination of mechanical, biological and wound healing properties. This functional hydrogel wound dressing may find broad utility in the field of regenerative medicine and may be similarly useful in the treatment of wounds in epithelial tissues, such as the intestine, lung and liver.
Phase I and scintigraphy studies to evaluate safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and lung deposition of inhaled GDC‐0214 in healthy volunteers
Authors: Zhu Rui , Chen Hubert , Galanter Joshua , She Gaohong , Cai Fang , Durk Matthew R. , Zou Yixuan , Chen Liuxi , Kenny Jane R. , Vadhavkar Shweta , Warren Simon , Taylor Glyn , Hwang Olivia , Eliahu Avi , Wynne Chris , Owen Ryan
Published: February 2022

Several inflammatory cytokines that promote inflammation and pathogenesis in asthma signal through the Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) pathway. This phase I, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial assessed the pharmacokinetics and safety of single and multiple ascending doses up to 15 mg twice daily for 14 days of a JAK1 inhibitor, GDC‐0214, in healthy volunteers (HVs; n = 66). Doses were administered with a dry powder, capsule‐based inhaler. An accompanying open‐label gamma scintigraphy study in HVs examined the lung deposition of a single dose of inhaled Technetium‐99m (99mTc)‐radiolabeled GDC‐0214. GDC‐0214 plasma concentrations were linear and approximately dose‐proportional after both single and multiple doses. Peak plasma concentrations occurred at 15–30 min after dosing. The mean apparent elimination half‐life ranged from 32 to 56 h across all single and multiple dose cohorts. After single and multiple doses, all adverse events were mild or moderate, and none led to treatment withdrawal. There was no clear evidence of systemic toxicity due to JAK1 inhibition, and systemic exposure was low, with plasma concentrations at least 15‐fold less than the plasma protein binding‐corrected IC50 of JAK1 at the highest dose. Scintigraphy showed that approximately 50% of the emitted dose of radiolabeled GDC‐0214 was deposited in the lungs and was distributed well to the peripheral airways. 99mTc‐radiolabeled GDC‐0214 (1 mg) exhibited a mean plasma Cmax similar to that observed in phase I at the same dose level. Overall, inhaled GDC‐0214 exhibited pharmacokinetic properties favorable for inhaled administration.
In vitro activities of N-acetyl cysteine and levofloxacin as a catheter lock therapy against catheter-associated infections
Authors: Mansouri M. David , Ramanthan Venkat , Mansouri Dena L. , Hull Richard A.
Published: February 2022

Aims

Since management of catheter-associated infections, which are generally biofilm-based, is attempted in certain patients such as older and frail patients by using a catheter lock solution (CLS), we examined the combination of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), an antibiofilm agent, and levofloxacin, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, for this purpose.

Methods and Results

Intravascular catheters were colonized with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis, levofloxacin-sensitive/methicillin-resistant Staph. aureus, levofloxacin-resistant/methicillin-resistant Staph. aureus, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae or Pseudomonas aeruginosa and treated with a CLS containing normal saline, NAC, levofloxacin or NAC plus levofloxacin (NACLEV) and then cultured to assess their antimicrobial activities. We also examined antibiofilm and antimicrobial activities of each CLS by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the mechanical integrity of catheters exposed to CLS. Treatment of colonized catheters with NACLEV-CLS significantly reduced colonization (p < 0.005) against all pathogens. SEM images also indicate reduction in colonization with NACLEV-CLS with considerable reduction in both visible bacteria and the associated biofilm. Mean tensile strength of catheters exposed to CLS was not significantly different compared to controls (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

These in vitro results suggest that NACLEV-CLS can significantly reduce all bacterial colonization and potentially help salvage infected catheters without affecting the catheter’s mechanical integrity.

Significance and Impact of Study

This study presents a novel CLS with a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against catheter-associated infections, particularly in long-term catheters.
Evaluation of the association between platelet tests and thyroid‐stimulating hormone levels in patients with vitiligo
Authors: Aksoy Saraç Gülhan , İbiş Saadet , Akdağ Turan
Published: February 2022

Objective

Vitiligo is a common dermatological disease of unknown cause and progressing with depigmentation and affects approximately 1% of the world population. In the study, we aimed to compare plateletcrit (PCT), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet (PLT), and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) values in vitiligo patients.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the medical data of 100 patients who were admitted to the dermatology outpatient clinic between January 2020 and December 2021 with a diagnosis of vitiligo. The control group was retrospectively constituted from medical records of 90 healthy individuals. PCT, MPV, PLT, and TSH levels of both groups were compared statistically.

Results

A total of 190 participants (100 vitiligo patients and 90 healthy volunteers) were included in the study. The mean age of the patient group was 38.62 ± 1.62, while the mean age of the control group was 41.52 ± 1.54. There were no differences between the two groups in terms of age and gender. It was found that the mean MPV value in the patient group was lower than the control group (p = 0.00). PLT and PCT values were significantly higher in the patient group than the control group (p = 0.00, p = 0.01, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of TSH (p > 0.05). A negative correlation between MPV and PLT values in the patient group (r = −0.218, p = 0.029), and a negative correlation between MPV and TSH (r = −0.218, p = 0.029), (−0.230, p = 0.021).

Conclusion

In the study, a comparison of the PCT, MPV, and PLT levels showed a difference between both groups, but no differences in TSH levels. To clarify these results, comprehensive studies with more samples are needed.
Psychiatric injury and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Authors: FANNING JOHN
Published: February 2022

The rules by which a claimant establishes whether a defendant owed her/him a duty of care vary depending on the type of injury that she/he has suffered. In cases involving physical injuries, the rules are relatively straightforward; in psychiatric injury cases, the claimant must go to greater lengths to establish a duty. It is therefore harder for claimants with psychiatric injuries to recover damages from the careless defendants who wronged them. This discriminatory effect has long been a subject of criticism. This article employs the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) to add another voice to the critical chorus. The CRPD, which the United Kingdom has ratified, prohibits discrimination on the basis of ‘psychosocial disability’ – that is, mental impairment. Since the special rules are engaged by, and applicable to, such disabilities, the law of negligence conflicts with the CRPD. The article concludes that the CRPD strengthens the case for reform.
Kadijustiz in the ecclesiastical courts: Naming, blaming, reclaiming
Authors: Shahar Ido , Yefet Karin Carmit
Published: February 2022

The article analyzes Israel's ecclesiastical court system through the prism of Weberian theory to both empirical and theoretical ends. On the empirical level, it aims to illuminate a grossly understudied socio-legal arena—the communal Christian courts in the Middle-East. On the theoretical level, it seeks to reclaim the Weberian concept of kadijustiz, which refers to “formally irrational” legal systems. In recent decades, scholars have engaged in a process of “blaming” that discredited the conceptualization of Islamic law as kadijustiz and resulted in the concept's erasure from socio-legal theory. After renaming it to the more neutral and non-Orientalist richterjustiz, we employ this new-old concept to analyze Israel's ecclesiastical courts and demonstrate its theoretical and analytical merits. The article concludes with several theoretical propositions, which draw on the empirical case study and contribute to the refinement of Weberian theory.
Decision-making in an inquisitorial system: Lessons from Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Ludmila , A. Diniz Alexandre M. , Bastos Lages Lívia
Published: February 2022

This paper seeks to understand how decision-making works at the first appearance hearings (Custody Hearings) in Brazil, an initiative that intends to make the Brazilian criminal justice system more accusatorial. We used primary data gathered in the hearings between April and December 2018 in nine Brazilian states. Binary logistic regression models were applied to identify the variables that affect the odds ratios of pretrial detention. Results indicated a high level of homology between the prosecutors' requests and the judges' decisions, even when controlling for the characteristics of offense and offender, which precludes any direct openness to the defense. Decision-making in the Custody Hearing reinforces the inquisitorial characteristics and the institutional features of the Brazilian Criminal Justice System, suggesting that the reforms carried out over the last years were not able to change how actors operate on a daily basis.
Mucus from the Pulmonate Sea Slug Onchidium typhae: Biochemical composition and ecological implications for the intertidal community
Authors: Techawongstien Kannapoj , Lirdwitayaprasit Thaithaworn , Pairohakul Supanut
Published: February 2022

Many marine organisms, especially molluscs, produce mucus, which can be used in several physiological processes, such as locomotion and defence. In addition to utilization for themselves, mollusc mucus may influence intertidal community dynamics. Therefore, the biochemical composition of Onchidium typhae Buchannan, 1800 mucus was investigated. The effects of mucus on the microphytobenthos growth rate, representing the ecological functions of the mucus, were also tested. The results showed that the mucus was mainly composed of water (82.5%), and a large proportion of the organic content in mucus consisted of proteins (40%), followed by carbohydrates (13.33%) and lipids (0.19%). The effects of mucus on microphytobenthos growth were conditional and genus‐specific. Growth of Navicular sp. and Nitzschia sp. significantly responded to different concentrations and incubation times of the slug mucus. Fresh and concentrated mucus inhibited the growth of both species; low mucus concentration and longer incubation time showed a significant increase in the growth rates of both species. However, no effect of mucus on the Thalassiosira sp. growth rate was observed. These effects of mucus on diatom growth are discussed. Moreover, our findings suggested that the intertidal slug O. typhae may act as an intertidal ecosystem engineer, which can facilitate and influence benthic phytoplankton community dynamics.
Expanding the discourse on emotion in health professions education
Authors: Mills Lynnea M.
Published: February 2022

Mills argues that discourses on emotion in health professions education deserve to expand into more nuanced realms, including the reflexive and sociocultural outlined by Ajjawi and co‐authors.
What are the causes of non‐tolerance to new spectacles and how can they be avoided?
Authors: Beesley Jeremy , Davey Christopher J , Elliott David B
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To investigate non‐tolerance cases from several UK practices to determine their likely causes and how they might have been avoided.

Methods

Patient complaint and refraction data were collected from non‐tolerance recheck examinations. For one practice, clinical data were also collected retrospectively to investigate the quality of the eye examinations.

Results

Data for 279 rechecks were gathered from 10 practices and a recheck frequency of 2.3% was found. The mean patient age was 60 (SD 16) years, with cylinder changes responsible for 38% of prescription‐related causes of rechecks, overplusing or underminusing 26%, and underplusing or overminusing just 11%. An assessment of 242 recheck corrections found that 40% were unsatisfactory (e.g., failed to address initial or recheck symptoms, N = 45) and retrospective analysis of 217 case records showed many limitations (e.g., 61% or 28% recorded no uncorrected or habitual visual acuity (VA) at either initial examination or recheck).

Conclusions

Given that overplus‐underminus was a much bigger proportion of prescription‐related cases than overminus‐underplus (26% vs. 11%), the refraction mantra of “maximum plus for maximum VA” should be balanced by increased teaching of the problems of overplusing and underminusing, and the use of prescribing guidelines. In addition, continuing professional development regarding the basics of the recheck examination, refraction, visual acuity and prism determination is needed. Changes of oblique cylinders should be carefully considered in older patients as this is a common cause of non‐tolerance. In addition, if the “if it ain't broke, don't fix it” and related maxims had been applied to all patients who were asymptomatic at the original examination, one third of all non‐tolerance cases could have been avoided. Finally, it would seem appropriate for practices to develop a system to deal better with non‐tolerance cases. Perhaps an experienced clinician should examine all patients with non‐tolerance and provide feedback to the original clinician.
Down syndrome and the autonomic nervous system, an educational review for the anesthesiologist
Authors: Sinton Jamie W. , Cooper David S. , Wiley Susan
Published: February 2022

Approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, or 0.14%. Children with Down syndrome have cognitive impairment and congenital malformations necessitating frequent occurrences of general anesthesia and surgery. The thoughtful perioperative care of children with Down syndrome is relevant and acutely complex for the pediatric anesthesiologist. Behavior, sedation, hypotonia, upper airway obstruction, venous access, and bradycardia are omnipresent concerns apart from the surgical pathology. Down syndrome is also associated with autonomic nervous system dysfunction, a comorbidity that is overlooked in discussions of perioperative care and is described thus far in adults. Autonomic nervous system function or dysfunction may explain the phenotypical features of the perioperative challenges listed above. For this reason, understanding the development and measurement of autonomic nervous system function is important for the pediatric anesthesiologist. Definition and quantification of sympathetic and parasympathetic function will be reviewed.
A metalinguistic and computational approach to the problem of mathematical omniscience
Authors: Soysal Zeynep
Published: February 2022

In this paper, I defend the metalinguistic solution to the problem of mathematical omniscience for the possible‐worlds account of propositions by combining it with a computational model of knowledge and belief. The metalinguistic solution states that the objects of belief and ignorance in mathematics are relations between mathematical sentences and what they express. The most pressing problem for the metalinguistic strategy is that it still ascribes too much mathematical knowledge under the standard possible‐worlds model of knowledge and belief on which these are closed under entailment. I first argue that Stalnaker's fragmentation strategy is insufficient to solve this problem. I then develop an alternative, computational strategy: I propose a model of mathematical knowledge and belief adapted from the algorithmic model of Halpern et al. which, when combined with the metalinguistic strategy, entails that mathematical knowledge and belief require computational abilities to access metalinguistic information, and thus aren't closed under entailment. As I explain, the computational model generalizes beyond mathematics to a version of the functionalist theory of knowledge and belief that motivates the possible‐worlds account in the first place. I conclude that the metalinguistic and computational strategies yield an attractive functionalist, possible‐worlds account of mathematical content, knowledge, and inquiry.
Advocacy coalitions, beliefs, and learning: An analysis of stability, change, and reinforcement
Authors: Weible Christopher M. , Olofsson Kristin L. , Heikkila Tanya
Published: February 2022

Policy processes are ongoing phenomena without beginning or end. Accordingly, a major focus of research has been on questions of stability and change. This paper continues in this tradition by examining advocacy coalition stability, belief change, and learning. This paper draws on three waves of policy actor surveys that compare panel and non‐panel samples. The data were collected in 2013, 2015, and 2017 in the context of oil and gas development in Colorado, USA. The findings mostly confirm that coalitions and beliefs tend to be stable and that learning leans toward reinforcement rather than change in beliefs. However, although rare, some instances of belief change, change in coalition membership, and changing policy positions occur. This paper makes theoretical and empirical contributions to the study of stability, change, and reinforcement of advocacy coalitions and their beliefs and charges policy scholars to look more at the exceptions to the evidence rather than the confirmations.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*44:544N allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Wojciechowski Elodie , Milhes Jean , Ralazamahaleo Mamy , Cargou Marine , Visentin Jonathan
Published: February 2022

HLA‐B*44:544N differs from HLA‐B*44:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 147 in exon 3.
Multiscale model of the physiological control of myocardial perfusion to delineate putative metabolic feedback mechanisms
Authors: Gharahi Hamidreza , Figueroa C. Alberto , Tune Johnathan D. , Beard Daniel A.
Published: February 2022

Coronary blood flow is tightly regulated to ensure that myocardial oxygen delivery meets local metabolic demand via the concurrent action of myogenic, neural and metabolic mechanisms. Although several competing hypotheses exist, the specific nature of the local metabolic mechanism(s) remains poorly defined. To gain insights into the viability of putative metabolic feedback mechanisms and into the co‐ordinated action of parallel regulatory mechanisms, we applied a multiscale modelling framework to analyse experimental data on coronary pressure, flow and myocardial oxygen delivery in the porcine heart in vivo. The modelling framework integrates a previously established lumped‐parameter model of myocardial perfusion used to account for transmural haemodynamic variations and a simple vessel mechanics model used to simulate the vascular tone in each of three myocardial layers. Vascular tone in the resistance vessel mechanics model is governed by input stimuli from the myogenic, metabolic and autonomic control mechanisms. Seven competing formulations of the metabolic feedback mechanism are implemented in the modelling framework, and associated model simulations are compared with experimental data on coronary pressures and flows under a range of experimental conditions designed to interrogate the governing control mechanisms. Analysis identifies a maximally probable metabolic mechanism among the seven tested models, in which production of a metabolic signalling factor is proportional to myocardial oxygen consumption and delivery is proportional to flow. Finally, the identified model is validated based on comparisons of simulations with data on the myocardial perfusion response to conscious exercise that were not used for model identification.

Key points

Although several competing hypotheses exist, we lack knowledge of specific nature of the metabolic mechanism(s) governing regional myocardial perfusion.

Moreover, we lack an understanding of how parallel myogenic, adrenergic/autonomic and metabolic mechanisms work together to regulatory oxygen delivery in the beating heart.

We have developed a multiscale modelling framework to test competing hypotheses against experimental data on coronary pressure, flow and myocardial oxygen delivery in the porcine heart in vivo.

The analysis identifies a maximally probable metabolic mechanism among seven tested models, in which the production of a metabolic signalling factor is proportional to myocardial oxygen consumption and delivery is proportional to flow.
Residual Stresses in Cold Extruded Aluminum
Authors: Frisch J. , Thomsen E. G.
Published: February 2022

A 1.5-in-diam cylindrical bar was extruded at room temperature from an 1100-0 (2S-O) aluminum 4.3-in-diam billet. Residual compressive stresses in the longitudinal direction were found to exist on the surface of the extruded bar. These stresses, as determined from the axially relaxed stresses in the billet during extruding, were found to be in qualitative agreement with the experimentally determined residual stresses as found by Sachs’ boring-out method. The severeness of work hardening at the edge of the die, found from the hardness pattern on the sectioned partially extruded billet, was in close agreement with the distribution of natural strains obtained under the same conditions of extrusion.
Flow Sampling and Discharge Measurement in Geothermal Bores
Authors: Banwell C. J.
Published: February 2022

The development of a sampler for measuring the heat and mass discharges of steam bores is described, and the results obtained in a number of test runs are compared with those given by full-scale separating and metering equipment. The sampler also has been used to investigate the flow distribution across a free steam-water jet, and the results are shown in graphical form and some of their implications discussed.
How to Obtain Describing Functions for Nonlinear Feedback Systems
Authors: Klotter Karl
Published: February 2022

A method is presented by which Describing Functions for nonlinear elements, whose behavior is defined by nonlinear differential equations (as contrasted with nonlinear relationships between the input and output variables themselves), can be obtained immediately (without first solving the differential equations). The method is applied to feedback systems containing one linear and one nonlinear element each described by a second-order differential equation.
Effect of Axial Fluid Conduction on Heat Transfer in the Entrance Regions of Parallel Plates and Tubes
Authors: Schneider P. J.
Published: February 2022

The laminar heat transfer in thermal-entry regions of parallel plates and tubes is investigated for special conditions under which the contribution of axial fluid conduction is comparable to or greater than the axial convection (low Peclet numbers). Zero and finite axial-conduction solutions for the local and mean fluid temperature and the local total Nusselt number are presented for uniform-velocity flow, finite wall resistance, and for both a uniform ambient temperature and step discontinuity in the ambient temperature. Calculated mean fluid temperatures, local total Nusselt numbers, and thermal-entry lengths are compared with corresponding predictions for the conventional case of zero axial conduction.
Experimental Studies of Free Convection Heat Transfer in a Vertical Tube With Uniform Wall Heat Flux
Authors: Hartnett J. P. , Welsh W. E.
Published: February 2022

The heat-transfer performance of water in a vertical tube closed at the bottom, with a length-radius ratio of 21 was experimentally determined for the case of uniform heat flux. The average performance was found to agree with the uniform wall-temperature results of Martin. This suggests that the uniform wall-temperature results of Martin for other fluids and other length-radius ratios may be utilized to predict the average performance for the uniform heat-flux boundary conditions.
An Investigation of Thermal-Stress Fatigue as Related to High-Temperature Piping Flexibility
Authors: Coffin L. F.
Published: February 2022

This paper is a summary report of a co-operative research investigation extending earlier work on the thermal-stress-fatigue resistance of AISI Type 347 stainless steel. The investigation was to provide additional qualitative experimental support of the concept of fatigue design based on an allowable stress range which is embodied in the ASA-B31.1 Code Rules for Piping Flexibility Design. Two specific objectives were established, together with the findings of this research: (a) Investigation of the effect of cycling which produces tensile rather than compressive stress under the hot condition. It was found that there was no significant difference. (b) Investigation of the effect of reducing the net mechanical strain range for a given temperature range to a point approaching the design strains for a piping system. While the temperature range was held constant, the trend of reducing the net mechanical strain range was to increase the number of cycles to failure similar to that obtained when the net mechanical strain range was reduced by lowering the temperature range under full constraint. In addition, for the same mechanical strain range, widening the temperature range decreased the number of cycles to failure.
Adjustment of cue weighting in speech by speakers and listeners: Evidence from amplitude and duration modifications of Mandarin Chinese tone
Authors: Zhang Hui , Wiener Seth , Holt Lori L.
Published: February 2022

Speech contrasts are signaled by multiple acoustic dimensions, but these dimensions are not equally diagnostic. Moreover, the relative diagnosticity, or weight, of acoustic dimensions in speech can shift in different communicative contexts for both speech perception and speech production. However, the literature remains unclear on whether, and if so how, talkers adjust speech to emphasize different acoustic dimensions in the context of changing communicative demands. Here, we examine the interplay of flexible cue weights in speech production and perception across amplitude and duration, secondary non-spectral acoustic dimensions for phonated Mandarin Chinese lexical tone, across natural speech and whispering, which eliminates fundamental frequency contour, the primary acoustic dimension. Phonated and whispered Mandarin productions from native talkers revealed enhancement of both duration and amplitude cues in whispered, compared to phonated speech. When nonspeech amplitude-modulated noises modeled these patterns of enhancement, identification of the noises as Mandarin lexical tone categories was more accurate than identification of noises modeling phonated speech amplitude and duration cues. Thus, speakers exaggerate secondary cues in whispered speech and listeners make use of this information. Yet, enhancement is not symmetric among the four Mandarin lexical tones, indicating possible constraints on the realization of this enhancement.