bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of baseline body mass index on the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib in patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Giles Jon T , Ogdie Alexis , Gomez-Reino Juan J , Helliwell Philip S , Germino Rebecca , Stockert Lori , Young Pamela , Joseph Wael , Mundayat Rajiv , Graham Daniela , Ritchlin Christopher
Published: January 2021

Objectives

This post-hoc analysis explored the impact of body mass index (BMI) on tofacitinib efficacy/safety in patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

Data were pooled from two phase 3 studies (NCT01877668;NCT01882439). Analyses included patients randomised to tofacitinib 5/10 mg two times a day or placebo, stratified by baseline BMI: <25 kg/m2, ≥25–<30 kg/m2, ≥30–<35 kg/m2or ≥35 kg/m2. Endpoints (month 3): American College of Rheumatology (ACR20/50/70), Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 response rates; dactylitis/enthesitis resolution rates; changes from baseline Short Form-36 Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2) Physical/Mental Component Summary (PCS/MCS) scores and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) total score. Safety was also reported.

Results

Analysis included 710 patients; 43.8% were obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). Tofacitinib demonstrated higher efficacy response rates at month 3, compared with placebo, regardless of baseline BMI. Generally, ACR20/50/70 and HAQ-DI response rates, enthesitis resolution rates and changes from baseline in SF-36v2 PCS score and FACIT-F total score (month 3) were reduced in patients with baseline BMI ≥35 kg/m2versus patients with lower BMIs. Elevated alanine aminotransferase/aspartate aminotransferase levels were reported in patients with baseline BMI ≥35 kg/m2receiving tofacitinib 5 mg but not 10 mg two times a day.

Conclusion

Tofacitinib demonstrated greater efficacy than placebo in patients with PsA, regardless of baseline BMI. For all treatment arms, reduced efficacy was observed in patients with baseline BMI ≥35 kg/m2. Safety was generally comparable across BMI categories, although the effect of tofacitinib on liver enzymes in patients with baseline BMI ≥35 kg/m2was inconclusive.
Developing a Global Data Breach Database and the Challenges Encountered
Authors: Neto Nelson Novaes , Madnick Stuart , Paula Anchises Moraes G. De , Borges Natasha Malara
Published: January 2021

If the mantra “data is the new oil” of our digital economy is correct, then data leak incidents are the critical disasters in the online society. The initial goal of our research was to present a comprehensive database of data breaches of personal information that took place in 2018 and 2019. This information was to be drawn from press reports, industry studies, and reports from regulatory agencies across the world. This article identified the top 430 largest data breach incidents among more than 10,000 data breach incidents.

In the process, we encountered many complications, especially regarding the lack of standardization of reporting. This article should be especially interesting to the readers of
JDIQ
because it describes both the range of data quality and consistency issues found as well as what was learned from the database created.

The database that was created, available at https://www.databreachdb.com, shows that the number of data records breached in those top 430 incidents increased from around 4B in 2018 to more than 22B in 2019. This increase occurred despite the strong efforts from regulatory agencies across the world to enforce strict rules on data protection and privacy, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) that went into effect in Europe in May 2018. Such regulatory effort could explain the reason why there is such a large number of data breach cases reported in the European Union when compared to the U.S. (more than 10,000 data breaches publicly reported in the U.S. since 2018, while the EU reported more than 160,000
1
data breaches since May 2018). However, we still face the problem of an excessive number of breach incidents around the world.

This research helps to understand the challenges of proper visibility of such incidents on a global scale. The results of this research can help government entities, regulatory bodies, security and data quality researchers, companies, and managers to improve the data quality of data breach reporting and increase the visibility of the data breach landscape around the world in the future.
Trait Activation Theory: A Review of the Literature and Applications to Five Lines of Personality Dynamics Research
Authors: Tett Robert P. , Toich Margaret J. , Ozkum S. Burak
Published: January 2021

Extending interactionist principles and targeting situational specificity of trait–performance linkages, trait activation theory (TAT) posits personality traits are expressed as valued work behavior in response to trait-relevant situational cues, subject to constraints and other factors, all operating at the task, social, and organizational levels. Review of 99 key sources citing TAT spanning 2011–2019 reveals diverse applications (e.g., bidirectionality, trait specificity, team building) and an overall 60% significance rate for 262 TAT-based moderator effects reported in 60 of 75 empirical studies. Applying five key aspects of TAT (e.g., behavior/performance distinction, need-based motivation) to five lines of personality dynamics research (e.g., personality states, self-regulation models of motivation) supports TAT as a vehicle for advancing understanding of within-person variability over brief and extended timelines. Critical research needs include personality-oriented work analysis, longitudinal study of trait-situation processes, trait activation in teams, within-job bidirectionality, and situation relevance as a unifying principle in advancing person–workplace fit.
Impedance Spectra Analysis of Glassy Carbon / (Polypyrrole + Polystyrene Sulfonate) Electrodes by Using a Modified Randles Equivalent Circuit with a Constant Phase Element
Authors: Torres Walter , Carabali Miguel Angel
Published: January 2021

Here we study the electrochemical impedance spectra of glassy carbon electrodes modified with a polypyrrole + sodium polystyrene sulfonate composite, GC/(PPy + PSS). This composite material was electrochemically deposited by using a potentiodynamic method, yielding ~120 nm-thick films. The impedance of the modified electrodes, in contact with two different electrolyte solutions, was studied in the range 10-1 to 105 Hz, at electrode potentials where the film is completely reduced and then at increasing levels of oxidation. The spectra were interpreted by using a modified version of the Randles equivalent circuit, where the Warburg impedance of the original circuit was replaced by a constant phase element. For a reduced or a slightly oxidized film, the impedance characteristics in the low frequency region is not consistent with charge transport within the film being controlled by diffusion but rather by either a mixed diffusion-migration control or anomalous diffusion, due to the internal structure of the material.
Effect of the AuNPs Biosynthesized Used as Anodes on the Performance of a Human Blood Paper-Based Microfluidic Fuel Cell
Authors: Gómez-Ramírez Marlene , Dector Andrés , Amaya-Cruz Diana M , Alamilla-Martínez Diana Grecia , Olivares-Ramírez Juan Manuel , Rojas-Avelizapa Norma Gabriela , Sosa-Domínguez Adrian , Morales Jimmy
Published: January 2021

In this paper, the biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was carried out from 4 different extracellular filtrates (EF): Extracellular Filtrate Czapek (EFC), Extracellular Filtrate Malt Dextrose (EFMD), Extracellular Filtrate Potato Dextrose (EFPD), and Extracellular Filtrate Saccharose (EFS). AuNPs were evaluated as anodes in paper-based microfluidic fuel cells for the oxidation of glucose in blood. In an innovative way and with the aim of having a more realistic application approach, the devices were tested with two different types of blood: one blood with glucose levels in the normal range and the other with glucose levels in the diabetes range. The power densities obtained for these kinds of blood were 0.54 and 0.85 mW cm-2, respectively.
Light-Induced Al Plating on Si for Fabrication of an Ag-Free All-Al Solar Cell
Authors: Ricci Lewis , Tseng Mao-Feng , Tao Meng , Liu Yunyu , Jiang Fangdan , Xing Guoqiang
Published: January 2021

Light-induced electroplating of Al as the front electrode on the n-type emitter of Si solar cells is proposed as a substitute for screen-printed Ag. The advantages and disadvantages of Al over Cu as the front electrode are discussed. The power of a green laser used for patterning of the SiNx antireflection coating is optimized. Conditions for removal of laser damage and contamination on the laser-patterned surface are identified. The effect of plating temperature and post-annealing temperature on Al morphology and resistivity are investigated. Several plating additives are explored to improve the morphology and resistivity of the Al film. Nicotinic acid produces the lowest resistivity of 3.1 μΩ-cm. However, the lowest contact resistivity between light-induced Al and Si is 69 mΩ-cm2 due to laser-induced damage to the emitter. The Al film spikes through the thin n-type emitter when annealed at 500 °C causing cell failure. The process reproducibility is also poor due to atmospheric moisture.
Mavacamten preserves length-dependent contractility and improves diastolic function in human engineered heart tissue
Authors: Sewanan Lorenzo R. , Shen Shi , Campbell Stuart G.
Published: January 2021

We applied innovative methods to comprehensively characterize the length and load-dependent behaviors of engineered human cardiac muscle when treated with the cardiac β-myosin specific inhibitor mavacamten, a drug on the verge of clinical implementation for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. We find mechanistic support for the role of mavacamten in improving diastolic function of cardiac tissue and note novel effects on work and power.
Digital Marking for Toric Intraocular Lenses in a Patient with Cyclodeviation
Authors: Seif Roland , Bleik Jamal , Jabbur Nada
Published: January 2021

Digital marking systems have been shown to be more accurate at positioning toric intraocular lenses and hence providing better visual outcomes. Patients with cyclodeviation and concomitant astigmatism undergoing toric intraocular lens placement present an extra challenge. We present a case of a patient with high astigmatism and a preexisting superior oblique palsy where using the Verion™ digital marking system proved to be an extremely valuable tool. We suggest that using this technology is especially helpful in patients with preexisting cyclodeviation and compensatory head tilt.
Energy-Saving and Sustainable Separation of Bioalcohols by Adsorption on Bone Char
Authors: Becerra-Pérez Oslery , Georgopoulos Stavros , Lanara Maria , Reynel-Ávila Hilda Elizabeth , Papadaki Maria , Bonilla-Petriciolet Adrián , Mendoza-Castillo Didilia Ileana
Published: January 2021

The separation of ethanol, propanol, and butanol from aqueous solutions was studied using adsorption on bone char. Adsorption kinetics and thermodynamic parameters of this separation method were studied at different conditions of pH and temperature. Results showed that the maximum adsorption capacities of these bioalcohols were obtained at pH 6 and 20°C. An exothermic separation was identified, which can be mainly associated to hydrophobic interactions between bone char surface and bioalcohols. Binary adsorption studies were also performed using mixtures of these bioalcohols. An antagonistic adsorption was observed for all bioalcohols where the ethanol and propanol separation was significantly affected by butanol. A model based on an artificial neural network was proposed to correlate both single and binary adsorption isotherms of these bioalcohols with bone char. It was concluded that the bone char could be an interesting adsorbent for the sustainable separation and recovery of bioalcohols from fermentation broths, which are actually considered emerging liquid biofuels and relevant industrial chemicals.
Experimental Study on Frost‐Heaving Force Development of Tibetan Clay Subjected to One‐Directional Freezing in an Open System
Authors: He Pengfei , Xiong Meng , Mu Yanhu , Dong Jianhua , Na Xinlei
Published: January 2021

Frost heave of soils involves complex coupled interactions among moisture, heat, and stress, which can cause serious damage to cold regions engineering. In this paper, a series of one‐directional freezing experiments were implemented for the Tibetan clay with rigid restraint in an open system. The varying characteristics of the temperature, frost‐heaving force, and water replenishment during the freezing process were analyzed under different freezing temperatures (−5, −7, and − 9°C), dry densities (1.65, 1.7, and 1.75 g cm−3), and initial moisture contents (11, 14, and 17%) of the soil samples. It was concluded that the freezing of soil samples mainly occurred within 10–25 hours from the beginning of the experiment; hereafter, the soil temperatures tended to be stable. The development of frost‐heaving force could be divided into three stages as slow increase, quick increase, and relative stable stages. Low freezing temperature, large dry density, and high moisture content were all the contributors to the frost‐heaving process of the soil, which could increase the freezing depth, magnitude of the frost‐heaving force, and amount of water replenishment. The variations in water replenishment from the open system corresponded to the three stages of the frost‐heaving force but had time lags. The moisture contents at different layers of soil samples were measured after the freezing experiment. The results showed that the freeze part of soil samples experienced a significant wetting, while the unfrozen part experienced drying during the experiment. The degrees of wetting and drying were related to the freezing temperature, dry density, and initial moisture content of the soil samples. The experiment results could provide data support for theoretical study on moisture, heat, and stress coupling in freezing soil.
Purification, Detoxification, and Incineration Methods of Minerals and Metals in Traditional Medicine Formulations of Sri Lanka
Authors: Sujatha Pushpakanthi Hewageegana Horadugoda Gamage , Hewageegana Ayuma Uththami , Ashanthi Menuka Arawwawala Liyanage Dona
Published: January 2021

Background. Herbo-mineral therapies are very popular in traditional medical systems and formulations consisting of specific minerals or metals or mixture of both and mixed with organic components derived from plants. Purification/detoxification or incineration procedures play an important role to detoxify these and metals and minerals. Objective. In the present review, an attempt was made to gather herbo-mineral formulations which are used commonly in traditional medicinal systems in Sri Lanka and recapitulate the purification/detoxification or incineration techniques. Method. Commonly used herbo-mineral formulations are collected from a text book of Vatikaaprakarana. However, the purification/detoxification and incineration techniques for all minerals/metals are not mentioned in Vatikaaprakarana, and these techniques were collected from journal articles published between 1st January 2000 and 1st June 2020 through searching PubMed (US National Library of Medicine, USA), Science Direct (RELX Group, Netherlands), and Semantic Scholar (Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence, USA). Results. Ten herbo-mineral formulations were selected, and purification/detoxification or incineration techniques were described in brief for copper sulphate, aluminum sulfate, borex powder, sulphur, sodium chloride, cinnabar, arsenicals, realgar, orpiment, ammonium chloride, magnesium silicate, zinc, and mercury. Conclusion. The review has demonstrated different types of purification/detoxification or incineration techniques of minerals used in herbo-mineral preparations. In addition, there is an urgent need for comprehensive survey or evaluation to check whether purification/detoxification or incineration techniques of metals/minerals are practiced properly in the country.
Stability Analysis on the Long‐Term Operation of the Horizontal Salt Rock Underground Storage
Authors: Zhang Chengzhong , Zhang Qiang , Li Weiwei , Song Zhanping , Wang Junbao
Published: January 2021

The construction of the vertical cavern in the salt dome deposit can meet the requirements of both storage capacity and tightness. However, if the vertical cavern is still used as the design shape of the salt rock underground storage in the layered salt rock deposit, the high design capacity cannot be guaranteed while the tightness is satisfied. In this case, the use of a large‐span horizontal cavern as the design shape of the salt rock storage can not only effectively increase the design capacity of the storage, but also solve the problems such as the stability and tightness of the storage during the operation period by improving the structural form and working mode. Based on this, the ellipsoid‐shaped horizontal salt rock underground storage is taken as an example, and a single‐cavern horizontal salt rock underground storage model with different diameter‐to‐height ratios is established by using FLAC3D software. The change law of vertical and horizontal displacements, volume loss rate, and plastic zone distribution of salt rock storage changing with the diameter‐to‐height ratio are studied, and the optimal diameter‐to‐height ratio is determined. And then the long‐term operation process of the double‐cavern horizontal salt rock underground storage under the optimal diameter‐to‐height ratio is simulated, and the optimal pillar width is obtained.
A CRISPR/Cas9-Engineered ARID1A-Deficient Human Gastric Cancer Organoid Model Reveals Essential and Nonessential Modes of Oncogenic Transformation
Authors: Lo Yuan-Hung , Kolahi Kevin S. , Du Yuhong , Chang Chiung-Ying , Krokhotin Andrey , Nair Ajay , Sobba Walter D. , Karlsson Kasper , Jones Sunny J. , Longacre Teri A. , Mah Amanda T. , Tercan Bahar , Sockell Alexandra , Xu Hang , Seoane Jose A. , Chen Jin , Shmulevich Ilya , Weissman Jonathan S. , Curtis Christina , Califano Andrea , Fu Haian , Crabtree Gerald R. , Kuo Calvin J.
Published: January 2021

Mutations in ARID1A rank among the most common molecular aberrations in human cancer. However, oncogenic consequences of ARID1A mutation in human cells remain poorly defined due to lack of forward genetic models. Here, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ARID1A knockout (KO) in primary TP53−/− human gastric organoids induced morphologic dysplasia, tumorigenicity, and mucinous differentiation. Genetic WNT/β-catenin activation rescued mucinous differentiation, but not hyperproliferation, suggesting alternative pathways of ARID1A KO-mediated transformation. ARID1A mutation induced transcriptional regulatory modules characteristic of microsatellite instability and Epstein–Barr virus–associated subtype human gastric cancer, including FOXM1-associated mitotic genes and BIRC5/survivin. Convergently, high-throughput compound screening indicated selective vulnerability of ARID1A-deficient organoids to inhibition of BIRC5/survivin, functionally implicating this pathway as an essential mediator of ARID1A KO-dependent early-stage gastric tumorigenesis. Overall, we define distinct pathways downstream of oncogenic ARID1A mutation, with nonessential WNT-inhibited mucinous differentiation in parallel with essential transcriptional FOXM1/BIRC5-stimulated proliferation, illustrating the general utility of organoid-based forward genetic cancer analysis in human cells.

Significance:

We establish the first human forward genetic modeling of a commonly mutated tumor suppressor gene, ARID1A. Our study integrates diverse modalities including CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, organoid culture, systems biology, and small-molecule screening to derive novel insights into early transformation mechanisms of ARID1A-deficient gastric cancers.

See related commentary by Zafra and Dow, p. 1327.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1307
At the Crossroads: COVID-19 and Immune-Checkpoint Blockade for Cancer
Authors: Garassino Marina Chiara , Ribas Antoni
Published: January 2021

The immunomodulatory effects of immune-checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy for cancer may act at the crossroads between the need to increase antiviral immune responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and to decrease the inflammatory responses in severe cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). There is evidence from preclinical models that blocking programmed death receptor 1 (PD1) protects against RNA virus infections, which suggests that patients with cancer receiving ICB may have lower rates of viral infection. However, given the heterogeneity of patient characteristics, this would be difficult to demonstrate using population-based registries or in clinical trials. Most studies of the impact of ICB therapy on the course of COVID-19 have centered on studying its potential detrimental impact on the course of the COVID-19 infection, in particular on the development of the most severe inflammatory complications. This is a logical concern as it is becoming clear that complications of COVID-19 such as severe respiratory distress syndrome are related to interferon signaling, which is the pathway that leads to expression of the PD1 ligand PD-L1. Therefore, PD1/PD-L1 ICB could potentially increase inflammatory processes, worsening the disease course for patients. However, review of the current evidence does not support the notion that ICB therapy worsens complications from COVID-19, and we conclude that it supports the continued use of ICB therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic provided that we now collect data on the effects of such therapy on COVID-19 vaccination.
Percutaneous Renal Biopsy Using an 18-Gauge Automated Needle Is Not Optimal
Authors: Sousanieh George , Whittier William L. , Rodby Roger A. , Peev Vasil , Korbet Stephen M.
Published: January 2021

Background: As percutaneous renal biopsies (PRBs) are increasingly performed by radiologists, an increase in the use of 18-gauge automated needle stands to compromise adequacy. We compare the adequacy and safety of PRB with 14-, 16-, and 18-gauge automated needles. Methods: PRB of native (N-592) and transplant (T-1,023) kidneys was performed from January 2002 to December 2019 using real-time ultrasound. Baseline clinical and laboratory data, biopsy data (number of cores, total glomeruli, and total glomeruli per core), and outcome (hematoma on renal US at 1-h, complications, and transfusion) were collected prospectively. PRB with N14g (337) versus N16g (255) and T16g (892) versus T18g (131) needles were compared. A p value of <0.05 was significant. Results: PRB with an 18-g needle yielded the lowest number of total glomeruli per biopsy (N14g vs. N16g: 33 ± 13 vs. 29 ± 12, p < 0.01 and T16g vs. T18g: 34 ± 16 vs. 21 ± 11, p < 0.0001), significantly fewer total glomeruli per core (T16g vs. T18g: 12.7 ± 6.4 vs. 9.6 ± 5.0, p < 0.001 and N16g vs. T18g: 14.2 ± 6.3 vs. 9.6 ± 5.0, p < 0.001). A hematoma by renal US 1-h post-PRB was similar for native (14g–35% vs. 16g–29%, p = 0.2), and transplant biopsies (16g–10% vs. 18g–9%, p = 0.9) and the complication rate for native (14g–8.9% vs. 16g–7.1%, p = 0.5), transplant biopsies (16g–4.6% vs. 18g–1.5%, p = 0.2) and transfusion rate for native (14g–7.7% vs. 16g–5.8%, p = 0.4), and transplant biopsies (16g–3.8% vs. 18g–0.8%, p = 0.1) were similar irrespective of needle size. Conclusions: PRB of native and transplant kidneys with the use of a 16-gauge needle provides an optimal sample. However, our experience in transplant biopsies suggests the use of an 18-gauge needle stands to jeopardize the diagnostic accuracy of the PRB while not improving safety.
Neuroprotective Factors of the Retina and Their Role in Promoting Survival of Retinal Ganglion Cells: A Review
Authors: Fudalej Ewa , Justyniarska Magdalena , Kasarełło Kaja , Dziedziak Jacek , Szaflik Jacek P. , Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska Agnieszka
Published: January 2021

Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) play a crucial role in the visual pathway. As their axons form the optic nerve, apoptosis of these cells causes neurodegenerative vision loss. RGC death could be triggered by increased intraocular pressure, advanced glycation end products, or mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we summarize the role of some neuroprotective factors in RGC injury: ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, pigment epithelium-derived factor, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, and Norrin. Each, in their own unique way, prevents RGC damage caused by glaucoma, ocular hypertension, ischemic neuropathy, and even oxygen-induced retinopathy. These factors are produced mainly by neurons, leukocytes, glial cells, and epithelial cells. Neuroprotective factors act via various signaling pathways, including JAK/STAT, MAPK, TrkA, and TrkB, which promotes RGC survival. Many attempts have been made to develop therapeutic strategies using these factors. There are ongoing clinical trials with CNTF and NGF, but they have not yet been accepted for clinical use.
Effect of concentration of DHA nutrient-enhanced Artemia on the growth and physiology of the ridgetail white prawn, Exopalaemon carinicauda (Decapoda, Caridea, Palaemonidae)
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Guangguang , Han Zhen , Hu Guangwei , Yan Binlun , Zhang Qingqi , Gao Huan
Published: January 2021

Prawns of the species Exopalaemon carinicauda were fed with Artemia that had been enriched by either 1, or 3, or 5 g/l DHA powder. The feeding dose of Artemia offered to E. carinicauda was calculated according to the water volume, and maintained at 1-3 individuals/ml. After nutritional enrichment, the ratio of DHA content to total fatty acid content in Artemia was the highest (3.32%) after being fed 3 g/l DHA powder. The ratio of DHA content to total fatty acid content in the muscle tissue of E. carinicauda prawns fed with Artemia enhanced with 3 g/l DHA powder was also the highest (4.40%) achieved. Furthermore, when the concentration of fish oil DHA powder was 3 g/l, the survival rate of the prawns was significantly higher than in the control group, with the specific growth rate and weight gain reaching 11.39%/day, and 95.74%, respectively. In addition, the DHA-enhanced Artemia, at different concentrations, increased the non-specific immunity of individuals. The enzyme activity of T-AOC, SOD and AKP in the respective feeding groups of prawns was significantly higher, compared to the control group. Thus, Artemia enriched by 3 g/l DHA powder is proposed as an optimal choice for the offspring breeding of E. carinicauda.
The Centrality and Interpretation of Psalms in Judaism prior to and during Medieval Times: Approaches, Authorship, Genre, and Polemics
Authors: Kalimi Isaac
Published: January 2021

This study discusses the centrality of the book of Psalms among the Jews and in Judaism. It outlines the seven most important and influential rabbinic exegetical works on Psalms, in the period before and during the medieval age: Targum Psalms and Midrash Psalms Shocher Tov, from some time in the Talmudic period; and five prominent medieval commentaries: Saadia Gaon, Moses haCohen ibn Gikatilla, Rashi, Abraham ibn Ezra, and David Kimchi. I briefly introduce each interpretative work and focus on selected aspects: The commentators’ distinct exegetical methods, their approaches to the questions of the authorship and genre of Psalms, and polemics with inside (e.g., Karaites) and outside (e.g., Christians) opponents. The result is to analysis and synthesis their approaches and to show the various trends that rabbinic Psalms interpretation took in these periods.
Reconsideration of Proper Remedies in Investment Arbitration in Light of Recent Cases: Should the Remedy Follow the Primary Obligation?
Authors: Demirkol Berk
Published: January 2021

Remedies available within a particular system are closely connected with the types and diversity of disputes brought to, and with the purpose and the structure of, the special dispute settlement mechanism. Investment arbitration is a mechanism for settlement of disputes between States and foreign investors who have made by definition mid- to long-term projects in the State concerned. Such claims are brought for the protection of private interests of investors, but they are mostly based on public international law obligations and subject to State responsibility principles. Institutional and procedural rules, as well as systemic features of investment arbitration play an important role in the determination of which remedies are available and provide suitable relief within this dispute settlement mechanism. The main argument of this article is that substantive characteristics of primary obligations should be taken into account, along with procedural considerations, in the determination of which remedies are available in investment treaty arbitration.
When Data Transformations are Appropriate or Even Necessary: A Response to Cohen-Shikora, Suh and Bugg (2019)
Authors: Schmidt James R.
Published: January 2021

In this paper, I argue that common data transformations used for statistical modelling are not inherently problematic. Depending on the research question, transformation can be appropriate or even necessary. The paper also discusses the often-overlooked impact of decision-related processes (e.g., rhythmic timing) on behaviour and how such biases can often unintentionally confound research designs. More narrowly, the current paper considers a recent debate about the list-level proportion congruent (llpc) effect, which is the finding that congruency effects (e.g., in the Stroop task) are reduced when most trials are incongruent relative to when most trials are congruent. The llpc effect is typically interpreted as evidence for conflict-driven attentional control (conflict monitoring). However, another view proposes that a rhythmic responding bias (temporal-learning) explains the effect. In a recent article, Cohen-Shikora, Suh, and Bugg (2019) challenged some of the evidence for the latter account. One key question they raise is whether it is appropriate to inverse transform (essentially: de-skew) response times when using linear mixed effect modelling. The authors argued that this transform is problematic and presented a series of analyses that they argued demonstrate both (a) that there are minimal concerns about temporal-learning confounds, and (b) that conflict monitoring clearly contributes to the llpc effect. The present article presents new analyses and demonstrates that neither of these two key conclusions of Cohen-Shikora and colleagues are justified. More global implications for linear mixed effect modelling are discussed, including an analysis of when data transformations should or should not be used.
An Absence of a Relationship between Overt Attention and Emotional Distortions to Time: an Eye Movement Study
Authors: Ogden Ruth S. , Turner Frederieke , Pawling Ralph
Published: January 2021

Emotional distortions to time are consistently reported in laboratory studies; however, their underlying causes remain unclear. One suggestion is that emotion-induced changes in attentional processes may contribute to emotional distortions to time. The current study tested this possibility by examining the relationship between eye movement and perceptions of the duration of emotional events. Participants completed a verbal estimation task in which they estimated the duration of positively, negatively and neutrally valenced images from the International Affective Picture System images. Time to first fixation and dwell time were recorded throughout. The results showed no significant relationships between measures of eye movement and measures of emotional distortion to time, despite the emotion manipulation successfully influencing the time before the participants first fixated on the to-be-timed stimulus. This suggests that for suprasecond intervals emotion-induced changes in overt attention processing do not contribute towards emotional distortions to time.
Taxonomic circumscription, new synonym and lectotypification of Saxifraga umbellulata (Saxifragaceae)
Authors: MIDDAY MRINMOY , GHOSH JAYANTA , MAITY DEBABRATA
Published: January 2021

Saxifraga umbellulata Hook & Thomson (1857:71), an Eastern Himalayan member of the genus Saxifraga Linnaeus (1753:398) (Saxifragaceae) was described based on specimens collected from the Sikkim Himalaya. The species was characterized by having a brown, densely glandular stem; many basal, very thick, fleshy (leathery), glabrous or sparsely setose-ciliate leaves, forming a rosette; few to several, erect, yellow flowers in a terminal subumbellate inflorescence. At present, the species is distributed in Nepal, India (Sikkim), Bhutan and China (Tibet) (Pan et al. 2001, Maity et al. 2018). Later Marquand and Airy Shaw described S. umbellulata f. pectinata Marquand & Airy Shaw in Marquand (1929:183) (Fig. 1) based on a few specimens, collected by F. Kingdon Ward from Pasum Lake in Tibet (Xizang), China, with cartilaginous setose-ciliate margin of basal leaves and yellow flowers. Pan (1992) raised this taxon to the rank of variety as S. umbellulata var. pectinata (C.Marquand & Airy Shaw) Pan (1992:165). Until now the variety has been accepted taxonomically.
Selliguea wusugongii (Polypodiaceae), a new fern species from southeastern Xizang, China based on morphological and molecular evidence

Authors: FAN XUE-PING , ZHANG LIN , ZHANG LI-BING , ZHANG LIANG
Published: January 2021

A new fern species, Selliguea wusugongii (Polypodiaceae), is described from southeastern Xizang, China. Morphologically, S. wusugongii is distinguished in the genus by having long need-like fronds with width of the lamina only 0.8–1.1 mm, and is the species with the narrowest laminae in selligueoid ferns. The new species is most similar to some Malay selligueoid ferns in morphology, S. bisulcata and S. subsparsa for example, by having simple fronds, narrow laminae and marginal rounded sori, but differs from them in having considerably more scattered scales, frond monomorphic and up to 40 cm long. A phylogenetic analysis based on five plastid markers supported the new species as most closely related to S. rhynchophylla. However, the two species are different from each other in quite a few morphological characteristics, such as the size of fronds and the visibility of venation, and the position of sori.
A new species of Aplectana (Nematoda: Cosmocercidae) in the Marsupial frog Gastrotheca microdiscus (Amphibia: Hemiphractidae) from Brazil
Authors: ALCANTARA EDNA P. , FERREIRA-SILVA CRISTIANA , FORTI LUCAS R. , MORAIS DRAUSIO H. , SILVA REINALDO J.
Published: January 2021

Aplectana longa n. sp. (Ascaridida: Cosmocercidae) from the small intestine of Gastrotheca microdiscus (Amphibia: Hemiphractidae) is described and illustrated. The new species is characterized by the combination of a unique set of morphological characters: 1) Large body size in both sexes; 2) Lateral alae absent; 3) Gubernaculum present, small, thin, weakly sclerotized, pointed at the distal end and curved proximally at the end, with a small and punctiform papilla-like dilation, and 4) Caudal papillae arrangement (9+1:0:6). The distribution pattern of caudal papillae is similar only to Aplectana chamaeleonsis. Nevertheless, Aplectana longa n. sp. is easily differentiated from this species by the arrangement of precloacal papillae. This is the 57th species of the Aplectana and the 16th species reported from Brazil.
Impact of 4D-Var Data Assimilation on Performance of the Coupled Land–Atmosphere Model WRF–TOPX: A Case Study of a Flood Event in the Wangjiaba Watershed, China
Authors: Yi Lu , Yong Bin , Chen Junxu , Zheng Ziyan , Li Ling
Published: January 2021

To assess the impact of four-dimensional variational (4D-Var) data assimilation on the performance of a land–atmosphere coupled model, the satellite precipitation of the Integrated Multisatellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG) was assimilated into the Weather Research Forecast (WRF) Model, and the WRF was coupled to the hydrological model TOPX. Precipitation and evaporation were both investigated as connecting elements in the coupled model WRF–TOPX. Differing in whether the 4D-Var data assimilation and evaporation were applied, one control experiment and four experiments were performed to simulate a historical flood event that happened in the Wangjiaba watershed in eastern China. The key hydrological variables of precipitation, potential evaporation, soil moisture, and discharge in the studied flood process were evaluated. The results showed that 1) the 4D-Var data assimilation with the IMERG could reduce both the overestimations of the WRF-predicted precipitation and potential evaporation; 2) the applied 4D-Var data assimilation could improve considerably the accuracy of the soil moisture and discharges from the coupled model WRF–TOPX; and 3) evaporation was also an important factor to influence the net precipitation to affect the performance of the coupled land–atmosphere model. With the two connecting elements of precipitation and evaporation, the 4D-Var assimilation based on IMERG could improve the Nash–Sutcliffe coefficient of the coupled model WRF–TOPX from 0.483 to 0.521 at the hourly scale. These investigations can provide important implications for the land–atmosphere coupling with both the precipitation and evaporation and using the 4D-Var data assimilation with IMERG for flood simulation at a large scale.
Moral Injury as a Mediator of the Associations Between Sexual Harassment and Mental Health Symptoms and Substance Use Among Women Veterans
Authors: Hamrick Hannah C. , Ehlke Sarah J. , Davies Rachel L. , Higgins Jennise M. , Naylor Jennifer , Kelley Michelle L.
Published: January 2021

Moral injury is an array of symptoms theorized to develop in response to morally injurious events, defined as events that challenge one’s core moral beliefs and expectations about the self, others, and world. Recent measures of moral injury have distinguished self-directed moral injury (e.g., moral injury symptoms that emerge following the perpetration of morally injurious events) from other-directed moral injury, the symptoms of which are believed to stem from one’s response to actions that others have committed (e.g., within-rank violence, failures of leadership, and acts of betrayal committed by trusted others or institutions). Using a convenience sample of 154 primarily former military women, the present study examined if other-directed moral injury symptoms (e.g., anger, betrayal, and mistrust) associated with military experience would mediate the association between military sexual harassment and mental health and substance abuse symptoms. Results demonstrated that 85.8% ( n = 127) of the of this sample of women veterans reported experiencing sexual harassment during their military service. Using a single mediation model, we further demonstrated that other-directed moral injury mediated the association between sexual harassment experience and mental health symptoms. Given the percentage of women veterans who reported sexual harassment, these results suggest that additional training for military members, and particularly, military leaders, is necessary to begin to reduce sexual harassment. In addition, mental health providers who work with current and former military members should consider how other-directed moral injury may be associated with mental health symptoms among women veterans who have experienced sexual harassment while in the military.
Inter-firm power relations and working conditions under new production models
Authors: Paz María J , Rísquez Mario , Ruiz-Gálvez María E
Published: January 2021

In investigating recent changes to the automotive industry production process, such as modularisation, our work emphasises the process of fragmentation of production as a configuring element of inter-firm power relationships, and as an explanatory element in working conditions. From a theoretical framework focused on power relations, we analyse by way of a selected case study how the capabilities of companies and their network positions, together with the agency of labour, shape the power relations that influence the evolution of working conditions. The study does indeed find relevant changes to inter-firm relationships, for example, within networks of assemblers and suppliers, but without a consequent re-balancing of power. This finding serves to explain differences in the evolution of working conditions between distinct companies, these conditions being fully functional to a strategy for profitability and thus difficult to reverse.
Improving the Measurement of Environmental Sensitivity in Children and Adolescents: The Highly Sensitive Child Scale–21 Item Version
Authors: Weyn Sofie , Van Leeuwen Karla , Pluess Michael , Lionetti Francesca , Goossens Luc , Bosmans Guy , Van Den Noortgate Wim , Debeer Dries , Bröhl Anne Sophie , Bijttebier Patricia
Published: January 2021

Children differ in their sensitivity to positive and negative environmental influences, which can be measured with the Highly Sensitive Child (HSC) scale. The present study introduces the HSC-21, an adaptation of the original 12 item scale with new items and factor structure that are meant to be more informative than the original ones. The psychometric properties of the HSC-21 were investigated in 1,088 children across Belgium and the Netherlands, including child and mother reports. Results showed evidence for (a) bifactor model with a general sensitivity factor and two specific factors (i.e., Ease of Excitation–Low Sensory Threshold and Aesthetic Sensitivity); (b) (partial) measurement invariance across gender, developmental stage, country, and informants; (c) moderate child–mother agreement; (d) good reliability; (e) normally distributed item scores; and (f) meaningful associations with personality and temperament across both samples. No evidence was found for HSC-21 as a moderator in the relationship between parenting and problem behaviors.
Variations of HCHO and BTX, human health risk and indoor renovation characteristics of newly renovated rental apartments in Beijing, China
Authors: Zhang Xianglan , Wang Zhichao , Li Xiaofeng , Xu Zhaowei
Published: January 2021

The popularity of decoration and refurbishment of rental apartments in China may give rise to indoor VOC levels, posing health threats to tenants. A questionnaire was conducted on the renovation characteristics and tenant information of rental apartments in Beijing. The study selected 143 rental bedrooms to study the characteristics of HCHO and BTX (benzene, toluene and xylene) and assessed the health risks of tenants. The results showed that the median of HCHO concentration was 0.07 mg/m3, within one to three months of renovation. The concentration declined to 0.03 mg/m3 after one year. However, BTX concentration was increased by four times after one year of renovation, probably due to tenants’ move-in. The mean of inhalation lifetime cancer risk for HCHO and benzene was calculated as 1.15–3.63 (10−5) and 2.46–7.9 (10−5), respectively, indicating probable risk. The tenants’ health risks were: infant > teenager > adult and male > female. Benzene in rental homes posed the greater health risk to humans than previous studies conducted in ordinary residences. The results show that 45.29% of rental apartments are renovated before the new tenants move in, and 86.27% of tenants have a lease length of less than three years. These behaviours may cause exacerbation of pollutant levels in rental apartments.
SIRT3 deficiency increases mitochondrial oxidative stress and promotes migration of retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Wang Jing-Xian , Yang Yuan , Li Wen-Ying
Published: January 2021

Retinal pigment epithelial cells are closely associated with the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. The mechanism by which diabetes impacts retinal pigment epithelial cell function is of significant interest. Sirtuins are an important class of proteins that primarily possess nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent deacetylases activity and involved in various cellular physiological and pathological processes. Here, we aimed to examine the role of sirtuins in the induction of diabetes-associated retinal pigment epithelial cell dysfunction. High glucose and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) treatment induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition and the migration of retinal pigment epithelial cells, and decreased sirtuin-3 expression. Sirtuin-3 knockdown using siRNA increased epithelial–mesenchymal transition and migration of retinal pigment epithelial cells. In contrast, sirtuin-3 overexpression attenuated the effects caused by high glucose and PDGF on epithelial–mesenchymal transition and migration of retinal pigment epithelial cells, suggesting that sirtuin-3 deficiency contributed to retinal pigment epithelial cell dysfunction induced by high glucose and PDGF. Mechanistically, sirtuin-3 deficiency induced retinal pigment epithelial cell dysfunction by the overproduction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. These results suggest that sirtuin-3 deficiency mediates the migration of retinal pigment epithelial cells, at least partially by increasing mitochondrial oxidative stress, and shed light on the importance of sirtuin-3 and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species as potential targets in diabetic retinopathy therapy.
Student outcomes of an international learning collaborative to develop patient safety and quality competencies in nursing
Authors: Sanford Julie , Argenbright Christine , Sherwood Gwen , Jordan Portia J , Jiménez-Herrera Maria F , Bengtsson Mariette , Moriyama Michiko , Peng Lui Lee , McDonald Maria
Published: January 2021

Background

Patient harm is a global crisis fueling negative outcomes for patients around the world. Working together in an international learning collaborative fostered learning with, from and about each other to develop evidence-based strategies for developing quality and safety competencies in nursing.

Aims

To report student outcomes from an international learning collaborative focused on patient safety using the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses competency framework.

Methods

A global consortium of nursing faculty created an international learning collaborative and designed educational strategies for an online pre-workshop and a 10-day in-person experience for 21 undergraduate and graduate nursing students from six countries. A retrospective pre-test post-test survey measured participants’ confidence levels of patient safety competence using the health professional education in patient safety survey and content analysis of daily reflective writings.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed student confidence levels improved across all eight areas of safe practice comparing-pre and post-education (significance, alpha of P < 0.05). Two overarching themes, reactions to shared learning experiences and shared areas of learning and development, reflected Quality and Safety Education for Nurses competencies and a new cultural understanding.

Conclusions

The international learning collaborative demonstrated that cross-border learning opportunities can foster global development of quality and safety outcome goals.