bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why are auditors blamed when something goes wrong? Experimental evidence
Authors: Hoos Florian , Saad Emna Ben , Lesage Cedric
Published: July 2018

Audit firms claim that they are used as the whipping boy when something goes wrong, either because of the public's poor knowledge of the auditing function or because financial incentives exist to blame the audit firm. An alternative explanation is that audit firms' active communication of their assurance provider role causes blaming behavior. We investigate these different explanations based on a 2 × 2 between‐subjects experiment in which we manipulate financial incentives to blame the audit firm and the audit firm's communication strategy. Three weeks in advance of the experiment we administered an auditing knowledge questionnaire to the participants to include their auditing knowledge levels into our study. We find that audit firms with “deep pockets” and an active assurance provider communication strategy receive significantly higher blame, and that poor knowledge of auditing is associated with higher blame. Furthermore, when a firm uses an assurance provider communication strategy, then it receives higher blame from participants with high (relative to low) auditing knowledge.
HLA‐B gene somatic insertion/deletion mutations in patients with acute myelogenous leukaemia
Authors: Königova Nikola , Skoumalova Ivana , Onderkova Jana , Ambruzova Zuzana , Szotkowski Tomas , Koristek Zdenek , Maluskova Alena , Raida Ludek , Mrazek Frantisek
Published: July 2018

Loss of heterozygosity is considered to be the most common type of tumour‐specific somatic mutation of the human leucocyte antigens (HLA) genes in patients with haematological malignancies. Nevertheless, subtle DNA sequence changes, namely short insertions/deletions, may also abolish the expression of HLA molecules and interfere with routine HLA typing. Two male patients with acute myelogenous leukaemia (AML) were indicated for the search of a suitable donor for allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT). The patients and their relatives were initially HLA typed by serological and DNA techniques at a low‐resolution level. The HLA high‐resolution (HR) type was obtained by means of sequencing‐based typing (SBT). In both cases, anomalous frameshifts in the sequence were observed in the HLA‐B gene, namely in exon 3 (Case 1, heterozygous deletion of two bases) and exon 4 (Case 2, heterozygous insertion of two bases). In the second case, the insertion variant was associated with a loss of HLA‐B8 expression. To reveal whether these sequence patterns may be caused by somatic mutations in the malignant cells, blood sample in remission (Case 1) and buccal swab sample (Case 2) were collected from the patients. In an important manner, the SBT in these germline samples revealed common HLA‐B*07:02,*15:01 (Case 1) and HLA‐B*08:01,*35:02 (Case 2) types with no evidence for the sequence alteration observed in the initial samples. In conclusion, the insertion/deletion sequence variants of the HLA‐B gene in two patients were limited to the initial blood samples with a substantial proportion of AML cells and thus may be attributed to the somatic mutation in the malignant cells. HLA somatic mutations should be taken into account in patients with haematological malignancies to prevent HLA mistyping and inappropriate selection of an aHSCT donor.
Kinetic analysis and thermodynamic simulation of alkali‐silica reaction in cementitious materials
Authors: Guo Shuaicheng , Dai Qingli , Chang Liang , Hu Yunhang , Xie Xinfeng , Si Ruizhe , Wang Jiaqing
Published: July 2018

This work aims to study the alkali‐silica reaction (ASR) with incorporated kinetic‐thermodynamic analysis. The model reactant tests were first conducted to study the silica dissolution in the simulated pore solution under different temperatures. Then, the kinetic model for silica dissolution was further improved by considering the influence of effective surface area. The improved kinetic model was also incorporated into the GEMS thermodynamic simulation. The model analysis demonstrated the silica dissolution rate is decreased mainly caused by reduced hydroxyl activity with increased saturation degree. The dissolved silica first reacted with the portlandite phase and formed the Calcium–Silicate–Hydrate (CSH) gel. The ASR gel can only be generated under high silicate ion concentration after the consumption of portlandite.
Growth and food consumption of whiting Merlangius merlangus
Authors: Ross Stine D. , Nielsen J. Rasmus , Gislason Henrik , Nielsen Anders , Andersen Niels G.
Published: July 2018

In the western Baltic Sea (WBS), whiting Merlangius merlangus is the main piscivorous fish together with cod Gadus morhua. In the present study, we investigate the growth and food consumption rates of WBS M. merlangus and compare the growth rates of males and females with those of M. merlangus in the North Sea (NS). Food consumption rates are estimated directly from sampled stomach contents in the WBS using a gastric evacuation rate model and indirectly by using a static energy‐budget model together with the growth rates. The results indicate that male and female M. merlangus in the WBS have similar feeding and growth strategies, while in the NS M. merlangus show more pronounced differences in food consumption and growth dynamics between the sexes. Female WBS M. merlangus grow significantly slower than their conspecifics in the NS, but there is no significant difference for males. Sexual size dimorphism is seen in both areas, but for M. merlangus in the WBS the difference is less pronounced. Food consumption rates in the WBS differ between seasons, with the lowest food intake in the first 2 quarters of the year and the highest in the 3rd quarter. No differences in consumption rates were seen between males and females, which could be related to the more similar growth pattern seen for M. merlangus in the WBS.
Successful treatment of a giant ovarian cyst by levothyroxin in a young adult woman: A case report
Authors: Xie Zhongjian , Li Lusha , Liu Wei , Liu Shiping , Luo Jianguang , Liao Eryuan
Published: July 2018

Ovarian cysts are one of the most common gynecologic affections for females. The most effective therapy is surgery, but not for all conditions. An 18‐year‐old woman was referred to our hospital because of menstruation disorder and abdominal distension. Ultrasound and computer tomography of the abdomen revealed a giant ovarian cyst. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed profound pituitary enlargement. Laboratory studies showed severe hypothyroidism, mild anemia, hyperlipidemia, hyperprolactinemia and an elevated level of cancer antigen‐125. Regression of the giant ovarian cyst and pituitary enlargement was observed after a 5‐month levothyroxine replacement therapy. Thus, for patients with ovarian cysts, hypothyroidism should be taken into account. Making correct diagnosis would avoid unnecessary surgery.
Sunlight, Disease, and Institutions
Authors: Ang James B. , Fredriksson Per G. , Nurhakim Aqil Luqman bin , Tay Emerlyn Huiwen
Published: July 2018

Higher exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV‐R) is associated with greater prevalence of eye disease such as cataracts. We hypothesize that the variation in the intensity of UV‐R can help explain the differences in institutional quality observed across countries. The long‐term incentive and ability to improve the quality of institutions decline when the probability of blindness increases. Our reduced‐form cross‐country results support this hypothesis. We then propose that the mechanism works from the impact of UV‐R on the prevalence of eye disease, which in turn shapes institutions. Our empirical evidence lends considerable support to this hypothesis.
The Effect of Changes in Border Regimes on Border Regions Crime Rates: Evidence from the Schengen Treaty
Authors: Sandner Malte , Wassmann Pia
Published: July 2018

In recent years, many countries have increased border controls, partly in response to public concerns that open borders favor cross‐border crime. Despite these widespread concerns, empirical research on whether public fears are justified is still scarce. This article evaluates whether the abolition of border controls at the eastern German and Austrian borders accompanying the implementation of the Schengen Treaty in December 2007 increased crime rates in the border areas of these countries. Based on official crime statistics, conditional difference‐in‐differences estimation allows the evaluation of border controls in a causal way. Results show that in Germany and Austria, a significant positive effect can only be observed for burglaries, suggesting that public concerns proved to be justified for this type of criminal offense. In contrast, no significant effect can be observed for overall crime rates or for other common types of crime against property, indicating that there is little empirical evidence for the widespread concerns about public security.
The risk of hepatocellular carcinoma within and beyond the first 5 years of entecavir in Korean patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Kim Byung Gyu , Park Neung Hwa , Lee Seung Bum , Jeon Soyoung , Park Jae Ho , Jung Seok Won , Jeong In Du , Bang Sung‐Jo , Shin Jung Woo
Published: July 2018

Background & Aims

The development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) has decreased due to potent antiviral agents. However, it remains uncertain whether the risk of HCC will diminish after long‐term antiviral therapy in Asia, where CHB is endemic and vertical transmission is common. This study aimed to compare the incidence of HCC within and beyond the first 5 years of entecavir (ETV) in treatment‐naïve Korean patients with CHB.

Methods

We performed a retrospective observational analysis of data from 894 consecutive, adult patients with CHB undergoing ETV treatment at a tertiary referral hospital in Ulsan, Korea from January 1, 2007 through April 31, 2017. We compared the HCC incidence rates per 100 person‐years within and beyond the first 5 years. Univariate and multivariate analyses for factors predictive of HCC were performed.

Results

The incidence rate of HCC in patients with CHB did not differ statistically when we compared within and beyond the first 5 years of ETV therapy (2.29% vs 1.66% per person‐year, P = 0.217). Failure to achieve maintained virological response (MVR) was a major independent risk factor for HCC in patients at a follow‐up of <5 years. In contrast, in patients with a follow‐up of ≥5 years, achieving MVR was not significantly associated with HCC development.

Conclusions

The incidence rate of HCC may not change significantly before and after 5 years of ETV therapy in Korean CHB patients. The risk of HCC in Asian CHB patients may remain in the long‐term.
Optimal trade execution in order books with stochastic liquidity
Authors: Fruth Antje , Schöneborn Torsten , Urusov Mikhail
Published: July 2018

In financial markets, liquidity changes randomly over time. We consider such random variations of the depth of the order book and evaluate their influence on optimal trade execution strategies. If the stochastic structure of liquidity changes satisfies certain conditions, then the unique optimal trading strategy exhibits a conventional structure with a single wait region and a single buy region, and profitable round‐trip strategies do not exist. In other cases, optimal strategies can feature multiple wait regions and optimal trade sizes that can be decreasing in the size of the position to be liquidated. Furthermore, round‐trip strategies can be profitable depending on bid–ask spread assumptions. We illustrate our findings with several examples including the Cox–Ingersoll–Ross model for the evolution of liquidity.
Prospective associations between parental feeding practices and children's oral processing behaviours
Authors: Fogel Anna , Fries Lisa R. , McCrickerd Keri , Goh Ai Ting , Chan Mei Jun , Toh Jia Ying , Chong Yap‐Seng , Tan Kok Hian , Yap Fabian , Shek Lynette P. , Meaney Michael J. , Broekman Birit F.P. , Lee Yung Seng , Godfrey Keith M. , Chong Mary Foong Fong , Forde Ciarán G.
Published: July 2018

Previous research demonstrated that faster eating rates are linked with increased intake of energy during a meal. Here, we examined whether within‐meal parental feeding practices show cross‐sectional and prospective associations with children's oral processing behaviours and whether the previously demonstrated association between faster eating rates and higher energy intakes varies by parental feeding practices. A subset (n = 155) of children and their mothers from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes cohort participated in an ad libitum meal at age 4.5 years. Children's oral processing behaviours (eating rate, bite size, chews per gram, oral exposure time, and meal duration) and parental feeding practices (autonomy‐supporting and coercive prompts, restrictions, hurrying, and slowing) were recorded during the meal. Subsequently, 94 of the children participated in a follow‐up meal without their mothers at age 6 years. Parental feeding practices were not consistently associated with child oral processing behaviours overall. However, exploratory post hoc analyses revealed some sex differences. The mothers of girls with faster eating rates, larger bite sizes, and fewer chews were more likely to use hurrying, slowing, and restrictions, but similar associations were not observed among boys. Children who had the most problematic eating style and were eating fast and for long experienced more restrictions, instructions to slow down, and prompts. Faster eating rates were linked with the highest energy intakes if children were additionally prompted to eat. Prospective analyses showed that children who were more often prompted using coercive techniques and less frequently hurried at age 4.5 years had faster eating rates at 6 years and a larger increase in eating rates between ages 4.5 and 6 years but did not consume more energy. Although the direction of these associations cannot be assumed, these exploratory analyses suggest sex differences in the associations between feeding practices and oral processing behaviours and highlight the potential role of parents in the development of children's oral processing behaviours.
Experimental study of the susceptibility of a European Aedes albopictus strain to dengue virus under a simulated Mediterranean temperature regime
Authors: Brustolin M. , Santamaria C. , Napp S. , Verdún M. , Rivas R. , Pujol N. , Talavera S. , Busquets N.
Published: July 2018

Dengue virus (DENV) has re‐emerged in Europe driven by the geographic expansion of the mosquito species Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) and the introduction of the virus by viraemic travellers. In the present study, the vector competence (VC) of Ae. albopictus collected in Catalonia (northeast Spain) was evaluated for two different DENV strains, DENV‐1 and DENV‐2, the serotypes responsible for all outbreaks of dengue that have occurred in Europe. Mosquitoes were reared under environmental conditions mimicking the mean temperature and humidity recorded in July on the Mediterranean coast of Catalonia. Mosquitoes were fed on an artificial infectious bloodmeal and, at 14 days post‐exposure, infection, disseminated infection and transmission rates (IR, DIR, TR) and transmission efficiency (TE) were determined by testing the virus in the body, legs and saliva. The tested Ae. albopictus strain was found to be susceptible to both DENV‐1 and DENV‐2 and to be able to transmit DENV‐1. This is the first time that the VC of Ae. albopictus for DENV has been tested in Europe in this specific context (i.e. mimicking the Mediterranean temperature and humidity recorded in Catalonia in July). This study confirms the potential of Ae. albopictus to start autochthonous DENV transmission cycles in the Mediterranean basin.
Subtle changes in diabetic retinas localised in 3D using OCT
Authors: Arthur Edmund , Papay Joel A. , Haggerty Bryan P. , Clark Christopher A. , Elsner Ann E.
Published: July 2018

Purpose

To detect and localise subtle changes in retinas of diabetic patients who clinically have no diabetic retinopathy (DR) or non‐proliferative DR (NPDR) as compared to age‐ and sex‐ matched controls. Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD‐OCT) and software to examine all retinal layers, including deeper layers, were used to quantify foveal avascular zone size and inner and outer retinal layer thicknesses, as well as to detect axial location of prominent lesions.

Methods

Diabetic subjects, 19 total with 16 having no DR and three having non‐proliferative retinopathy, were matched with 19 controls with respect to age and sex. Macular‐centred SD‐OCT grids of 20 × 15° were taken with the Spectralis. En face or transverse images were generated from the SD‐OCT data by automatically segmenting all retinal layers. The transverse images were investigated for foveal avascular zone (FAZ) size, retinal vessel calibre, and structural changes. The size of the FAZ was compared for diabetics vs controls using vendor software and manual marking in Photoshop. Inner retinal layer (IRLFAZ) and outer nuclear layer (ONLFAZ) thicknesses at the margins of the FAZ were measured using vendor software.

Results

The FAZ area was larger for diabetics (mean ± S.D. = 0.388 ± 0.074 mm2) than controls (0.243 ± 0.113 mm2), t18 = 5.27, p < 0.0001, using vendor software. The mean IRLFAZ was thicker for the diabetics (86.8 ± 14.5 μm) than controls (65.2 ± 16.3 μm), t18 = 4.59, p = 0.00023, despite lack of exudation by clinical exam. There was no significant association between FAZ area and mean IRLFAZ for the diabetics, r = 0.099, p = 0.69. Vessels not clinically detected were visible in the NFL transverse image of most diabetics, especially for a mild NPDR patient. A prominent lesion found in the en face infra‐red image of a mild NPDR subject was localised in the photoreceptor layer by SD‐OCT, as well as additional outer retinal changes in other subjects.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate changes in inner and outer diabetic retinas not readily detectable by clinical exam. IRLFAZ had not thinned at the margins of the large FAZs, indicating neural mass did not yet decrease despite potential ischemia.
The youngest ophiocistioid: a first Palaeozoic‐type echinoderm group representative from the Mesozoic
Authors: Reich Mike , Stegemann Tanja R. , Hausmann Imelda M. , Roden Vanessa J. , Nützel Alexander
Published: July 2018

Articulated ophiocistioids are rare as fossils, enigmatic in terms of their phylogenetic position, and have been considered to be an exclusively Palaeozoic echinoderm group. Apart from articulated body fossils, the fossil record of Ophiocistioidea is otherwise dependent on isolated microfossils. However, it has been demonstrated that disarticulated jaw elements (goniodonts) of ophiocistioids can be diagnostic at genus and species level and can be used to fill gaps in the non‐articulated fossil record. The Late Triassic Cassian Formation of Italy is regarded as one of the most important strata of early Mesozoic invertebrates worldwide. A fossil assemblage from a locality near Misurina, South Tyrol, yielded various echinoderms, including a stem group echinoid representative and a new ophiocistioid, Linguaserra triassica sp. nov. The new taxon is described and placed within linguaserrid ophiocistioids. The evolutionary history of the group is briefly discussed in relation to other taxa of the Ophiocistioidea and Echinoidea. Linguaserra triassica not only represents the first documented occurrence of this ‘Palaeozoic’ echinoderm class from Mesozoic strata but also establishes the stratigraphically youngest record of goniodonts or ophiocistioid teeth in the world.
Transcriptome and metabolome reveal distinct carbon allocation patterns during internode sugar accumulation in different sorghum genotypes
Authors: Li Yin , Wang Wenqin , Feng Yaping , Tu Min , Wittich Peter E. , Bate Nicholas J. , Messing Joachim
Published: July 2018

Sweet sorghum accumulates large amounts of soluble sugar in its stem. However, a system‐based understanding of this carbohydrate allocation process is lacking. Here, we compared the dynamic transcriptome and metabolome between the conversion line R9188 and its two parents, sweet sorghum RIO and grain sorghum BTx406 that have contrasting sugar‐accumulating phenotypes. We identified two features of sucrose metabolism, stable concentrations of sugar phosphates in RIO and opposite trend of trehalose‐6‐phosphate (T6P) between RIO vs R9188/BTx406. Integration of transcriptome and metabolome revealed R9188 is partially active in starch metabolism together with medium sucrose level, whereas sweet sorghum had the highest sucrose concentration and remained highly active in sucrose, starch, and cell wall metabolism post‐anthesis. Similar expression pattern of genes involved in sucrose degradation decreased the pool of sugar phosphates for precursors of starch and cell wall synthesis in R9188 and BTx406. Differential T6P signal between RIO vs R9188/BTx406 is associated with introgression of T6P regulators from BTx406 into R9188, including C‐group bZIP and trehalose 6‐phosphate phosphatase (TPP). The inverted T6P signalling in R9188 appears to down‐regulate sucrose and starch metabolism partly through transcriptome reprogramming, whereas introgressed metabolic genes could be related to reduced cell wall metabolism. Our results show that coordinated primary metabolic pathways lead to high sucrose demand and accumulation in sweet sorghum, providing us with targets for genetic improvements of carbohydrate allocation in bioenergy crops.
LcFIN2, a novel chloroplast protein gene from sheepgrass, enhances tolerance to low temperature in Arabidopsis and rice
Authors: Li Xiaoxia , Yang Weiguang , Liu Shu , Li Xiu‐Qing , Jia Junting , Zhao Pincang , Cheng Liqin , Qi Dongmei , Chen Shuangyan , Liu Gongshe
Published: July 2018

Adverse environmental stresses affect plant growth and crop yields. Sheepgrass (Leymus chinensis (Trin.) Tzvel), an important forage grass that is widely distributed in the east of Eurasia steppe, has high tolerance to extreme low temperature. Many genes that respond to cold stress were identified in sheepgrass by RNA‐sequencing, but more detailed studies are needed to dissect the function of those genes. Here, we found that LcFIN2, a sheepgrass freezing‐induced protein 2, encoded a chloroplast‐targeted protein. Expression of LcFIN2 was upregulated by freezing, chilling, NaCl and abscisic acid (ABA) treatments. Overexpression of LcFIN2 enhanced the survival rate of transgenic Arabidopsis after freezing stress. Importantly, heterologous expression of LcFIN2 in rice exhibited not only higher survival rate but also accumulated various soluble substances and reduced membrane damage in rice under chilling stress. Furthermore, the chlorophyll content, the quantum photochemistry efficiency of photosystem II (ΦPSII), the non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ), the net photosynthesis rate (Pn) and the expression of some chloroplast ribosomal‐related and photosynthesis‐related genes were higher in the transgenic rice under chilling stress. These findings suggested that the LcFIN2 gene could potentially be used to improve low‐temperature tolerance in crops.
Four chemotypes of the terrestrial cyanobacterium Nostoc commune characterized by differences in the mycosporine‐like amino acids
Authors: Sakamoto Toshio , Hashimoto Akane , Yamaba Minami , Wada Naoki , Yoshida Takayuki , Inoue‐Sakamoto Kaori , Nishiuchi Takumi , Matsugo Seiichi
Published: July 2018

The cyanobacterium Nostoc commune is adapted to terrestrial environments and has a cosmopolitan distribution. Four genotypes of N. commune can be identified based on differences in their 16S rRNA genes, and these genotypes are distributed throughout Japan without regional specificity. Mycosporine‐like amino acids (MAAs) are UV‐absorbing pigments, and novel glycosylated MAA derivatives with radical scavenging activities have been identified in N. commune. In this study, we investigated the consistency of the relationship between MAA compositions and N. commune genotypes. The MAA compositions were different in a genotype‐specific manner, suggesting that the types of MAA derivatives can feasibly be used as chemotaxonomic markers to characterize N. commune. The novel 756‐Da MAA, which was identified as an aglycone of the 1050‐Da MAA and named nostoc‐756, occurred in genotype C of N. commune. Nostoc‐756 functioned as a radical scavenger in vitro. In conclusion, N. commune is classified into four groups representing genetically different chemotypes, namely, the arabinose‐bound porphyra‐334 producer (chemotype A), the glycosylated nostoc‐756 producer (chemotype B), the nostoc‐756 producer (chemotype C) and the glycosylated palythine‐threonine producer (chemotype D). Either the molecular taxonomical method or chemical analysis of a characteristic secondary metabolite is sufficient to identify the types of N. commune; however, there are no obvious ecophysiological differences that allow us to distinguish them.
Delirium associated with only one dose of zopiclone in an older adult
Authors: Kalan Ugur , Soysal Pinar , Isik Ahmet Turan
Published: July 2018

Both insomnia and its treatment can lead to the development of delirium in older adults. In the present case, delirium occurred after a single dose of zopiclone was given for insomnia treatment in an 84‐year‐old patient. Considering the case, patients and caregivers should be informed about the rare complication when zopiclone is prescribed.
Working and supporting people with dementia when you are a student: a qualitative research
Authors: Korukcu Oznur , Kukulu Kamile , Tufan Ismail
Published: July 2018

Background

Participation of young people in the care of older people will provide important contributions to improving older people's health.

Methods

This qualitative case study was conducted to clarify the possible difficulties and experiences of student interns at the Blue House Alzheimer's Center for Alzheimer's Patients and Families. Data were collected by focus group interview.

Results

It was seen that all students who practice at the Blue House Alzheimer's Patient and Patient Relatives Center willingly choose the gerontology profession. Gerontology is a new field in Turkey and the increasing number of older people leads students to gravitate towards this profession. Students who participated in the present study stated that internship at the nursing home is different to internship at the Alzheimer's care center, and it is much more difficult to empower individuals with dementia. Students stated that they had difficulty constantly meeting patients suffering from dementia, teaching an activity over and over again, caring for patients who constantly talk about their memories of past professional life, the theoretical and practical differences in caring for Alzheimer's disease patients, and the fear of one day suffering from dementia themselves.

Conclusion

In the most energetic years of their life, incorporating students into the care of Alzheimer's disease patients increased their knowledge and care skills.
Communication in Theory and Research on Transactive Memory Systems: A Literature Review
Authors: Peltokorpi Vesa , Hood Anthony C.
Published: July 2018

Transactive memory systems (TMS) theory has attracted considerable attention in the scholarly fields of cognitive, organizational, and social psychology; communication; information science; and management. A central theme underlying and connecting these scholarly fields has been the role of interpersonal communication in explaining how members of dyads, groups, and teams learn “who knows what,” specialize in different information domains, and retrieve information from domain experts. However, because theoretical and empirical evidence is scattered across related, yet distinct scholarly fields, it is difficult to determine how and why communication influences TMS and related outcomes. Thus, this paper reviews literature on the relationships between communication, TMS, and outcomes in dyads, groups, and teams, and proposes avenues for future research.
Factors associated with early tibial tuberosity fracture after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy
Authors: Mehrkens Lea R. , Hudson Caleb C. , Cole Grayson L.
Published: July 2018

Objective

To determine factors contributing to tibial tuberosity fracture (TTF) after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO).

Study design

Retrospective case‐control study.

Animals

Dogs (n = 2490) with cranial cruciate ligament rupture that underwent 3000 TPLO surgeries.

Methods

Radiographs of 3000 stifles from dogs that underwent TPLO were reviewed for evidence of TTF. Two ratios were generated: (1) the height of the tuberosity over the width of the tibia at the most distal extent of the osteotomy (TW) and (2) the width of the narrowest point of the tuberosity over TW.

Results

Twenty‐three (0.77%) cases of fracture were identified. Factors that correlated with increased odds of fracture were placement of antirotational pins distal to the insertion of the patellar ligament (PL), tuberosities with the narrowest point below the insertion of PL, placement of multiple pins distal to the PL, and bilateral simultaneous TPLO. Tuberosities that fractured were significantly taller and narrower than those that did not fracture. Rotation past the “safe point” and presence of a gap at the osteotomy were not correlated with fracture.

Conclusion

Placement of multiple pins, pin placement distal to the insertion of the PL, location of the narrowest point of the tibial tuberosity distal to the insertion of the PL, and simultaneous bilateral TPLO were all associated with TTF in this study

Clinical significance

Preoperative planning and postoperative assessment of TPLO should take into consideration the predisposing factors identified in this study to prevent TTF.
Myths and Methodologies: Reducing scientific design ambiguity in studies comparing sexes and/or menstrual cycle phases
Authors: Sims Stacy T. , Heather Alison K.
Published: July 2018

New Findings

What is the topic of this review?

We review methodological considerations for the inclusion of women in sex and menstrual cycle phase comparison studies.

What advances does it highlight?

Improving the methodological design for studies exploring sex differences, menstrual cycle phase differences and/or endogenous versus exogenous female sex hormones will help to close the gap in our understanding of the effects of endogenous and exogenous hormones on exercise science and sports medicine outcomes.

In recent years, the increase in scientific literature exploring sex differences has been beneficial to both clinicians and allied health science professionals, although female athletes are still significantly under‐represented in sport and exercise science research. Women have faced exclusion throughout history though the complexities of sociocultural marginalization and biomedical disinterest in women's health. These complexities have contributed to challenges of studying women and examining sex differences. One underlying complexity to methodological design may be hormonal perturbations of the menstrual cycle. The biphasic responses of oestrogen and progesterone across the menstrual cycle significantly influence physiological responses, which contribute to exercise capacity and adaptation in women. Moreover, oral contraceptives add complexity through the introduction of varying concentrations of circulating exogenous oestrogen and progesterone, which may moderate physiological adaptations to exercise in a different manner to endogenous ovarian hormones. Thus, applied sport and exercise science research focusing on women remains limited, in part, by poor methodological design that does not define reproductive status. By highlighting specific differences between phases with regard to hormone perturbations and the systems that are affected, methodological inconsistencies can be reduced, thereby improving scientific design that will enable focused research on female athletes in sports science and evaluation of sex differences in responses to exercise. The aims of this review are to highlight the differences between endogenous and exogenous hormone profiles across a standard 28–32 day menstrual cycle, with the goal to improve methodological design for studies exploring sex differences, menstrual cycle phase differences and/or endogenous versus exogenous female sex hormones.
Acompañamiento a enfermos de difícil cura a partir de Lc 23,39-43
Authors: Tenjo Cogollo Manuel
Published: July 2018

A partir del análisis de Lc 23,39-43 –donde se observan tres maneras de enfrentar el sufrimiento y la muerte– y del dialogo con algunos autores de bioética se presenta la investigación que apunta a la reflexión sobre el sufrimiento y la muerte, encaminada a ayudar a quienes realizan el seguimiento integral a las personas que viven con enfermedades terminales o de difícil cura. Se une el aporte bíblico con el bioético para generar reflexiones de apoyo y crecimiento en medio de situaciones límite, encaminadas a hacer productivo, con un sentido redentor, el sufrimiento y la muerte.
Implicaciones pragmáticas del discurso teológico
Authors: Escalante, S. D. S. Luis Alfredo
Published: July 2018

Al ser existencial, el discurso teológico posee unas implicancias sobre los modos de ser y de vivir y, por tanto, sobre las prácticas cristianas. Este artículo pretende abordar el asunto de la relevancia pragmática como condición de posibilidad para la significación del discurso teológico. Primero plantea las exigencias prácticas que recibe la teología en el debate público actual. En segundo lugar plasma las bases de esta comprensión teológica, que se hallan en el Dios revelado como palabra y como acto. En tercer lugar, desarrolla las características discursivas y prácticas de la teología. Finalmente, esboza los desafíos que surgen de la reflexión teológica sobre la fe como práctica cotidiana dirigida a un Dios que es amor misericordioso, liberador, transformador.
Pregnant versus non-pregnant healthy subjects – a prospective longitudinal musculoskeletal ultrasound study concerning the spectrum of normality
Authors: Micu Mihaela Cosmina , Fodor Daniela , Micu Romeo , Bolboacă Sorana Dana , Ionescu Ruxandra
Published: July 2018

Pregnancy induces profound changes in the maternal body and the normality spectrum may differ compared to non-pregnant subjects.Aims: The main objective was to establish the presence, frequency and distribution of articular and peri-articular abnormal findings in healthy women, pregnant and non-pregnant, using clinical examination (CE) and musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS). Second objective was to identify which joint/tendon set would show fewer modifications in both groups of healthy subjects and would remain stable throughout pregnancy.Material and methods: A prospective cross-sectional and longitudinal study on healthy pregnant (case group, 5 evaluations – 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimester of pregnancy and 2 postpartum visits) and non-pregnant female volunteers (control group, one evaluation), consisting in CE vs MSUS joint and tendon evaluation, was conducted. MSUS elementary lesions such as synovial hypertrophy, effusion, Power Doppler (PD) signal, erosions and osteophytes were quantified.Results: The case group (20 pregnant women) and 75 age- matched controls were evaluated on 46 joints and 24 tendon units. The highest frequency of grey scale pathologic–like imaging abnormalities was detected at metatarsophalangeal joints and wrist level in both groups. No pathologic-like abnormalities throughout pregnancy and postpartum were detected on flexor tendons (F1-F5), metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPj), extensor carpi ulnaris tendon (EUC) and large joints (glenohumeral, elbow, tibiotalar). Very low frequency of PD signal, erosions and osteophytes was identified in both groups. The highest longitudinal change was detected in the effusion on joint and tendon level only.Conclusion: MSUS inflammation-like abnormalities can be detected in healthy subjects and pregnancy may modify baseline findings. The identification of a joint/tendon set with less abnormalities (hand flexor tendons F1-F5, MCPj 2-5 and EUC) in healthy subjects would help in selecting target structures, important for identifying the disease onset and for further monitoring.
The Role of Knowledge and Understanding in Fostering Physical Literacy
Authors: Cale Lorraine , Harris Jo
Published: July 2018

This article explores the role of knowledge and understanding in fostering physical literacy, which is considered fundamental to successful participation in physical activity, and to valuing and taking responsibility for engaging in physical activities for life. First, it highlights the place and importance of knowledge and understanding within the broad concept, cognitive domain, and attributes of physical literacy. The type, scope, and progression of knowledge and understanding deemed necessary to foster physical literacy are then explored, with attention paid to knowledge of health within the school context in particular. To conclude, the article outlines selected pedagogical approaches and practical strategies for developing and monitoring such knowledge and understanding.
Ultrafast dissolution and creation of bonds in IrTe
2
induced by photodoping
Authors: Ideta Shin-ichiro , Zhang Dongfang , Dijkstra Arend G. , Artyukhin Sergey , Keskin Sercan , Cingolani Roberto , Shimojima Takahiro , Ishizaka Kyoko , Ishii Hiroyuki , Kudo Kazutaka , Nohara Minoru , Miller R. J. Dwayne
Published: July 2018

Photoinduced bonding instability of IrTe
2
studied with ultrafast electron diffraction and density functional theory.
Nanowire network–based multifunctional all-optical logic gates
Authors: Yang He , Khayrudinov Vladislav , Dhaka Veer , Jiang Hua , Autere Anton , Lipsanen Harri , Sun Zhipei , Jussila Henri
Published: July 2018

Authors develop nanowire-based multifunctional logic gates for all-optical computation used in future nanophotonic devices.
Transition metal–assisted carbonization of small organic molecules toward functional carbon materials
Authors: Wu Zhen-Yu , Xu Shi-Long , Yan Qiang-Qiang , Chen Zhi-Qin , Ding Yan-Wei , Li Chao , Liang Hai-Wei , Yu Shu-Hong
Published: July 2018

A transition metal–assisted carbonization process can convert small organic molecules to functional carbon materials directly.
Engineering stable interfaces for three-dimensional lithium metal anodes
Authors: Xie Jin , Wang Jiangyan , Lee Hye Ryoung , Yan Kai , Li Yuzhang , Shi Feifei , Huang William , Pei Allen , Chen Gilbert , Subbaraman Ram , Christensen Jake , Cui Yi
Published: July 2018

Atomic layer deposition enables stable cycling of Li metal in a three-dimensional lithium host.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Artemether, Dihydroartemisinin, and Lumefantrine in Rwandese Pregnant Women Treated for Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum Malaria
Authors: Lohy Das Jesmin , Rulisa Stephen , de Vries Peter J. , Mens Petra F. , Kaligirwa Nadine , Agaba Steven , Tarning Joel , Karlsson Mats O. , Dorlo Thomas P. C.
Published: July 2018

The artemisinin-based combination therapy artemether-lumefantrine is commonly used in pregnant malaria patients. However, the effect of pregnancy-related changes on exposure is unclear, and pregnancy has been associated with decreased efficacy in previous studies.
Antibiotic-Induced Dysbiosis Predicts Mortality in an Animal Model of Clostridium difficile Infection
Authors: Burdet Charles , Sayah-Jeanne Sakina , Nguyen Thu Thuy , Hugon Perrine , Sablier-Gallis Frédérique , Saint-Lu Nathalie , Corbel Tanguy , Ferreira Stéphanie , Pulse Mark , Weiss William , Andremont Antoine , Mentré France , de Gunzburg Jean
Published: July 2018

Antibiotic disruption of the intestinal microbiota favors colonization by
Clostridium difficile
. Using a charcoal-based adsorbent to decrease intestinal antibiotic concentrations, we studied the relationship between antibiotic concentrations in feces and the intensity of dysbiosis and quantified the link between this intensity and mortality.
Antimicrobial Resistance inEnterococcusspp. of animal origin
Authors: Torres Carmen , Alonso Carla Andrea , Ruiz-Ripa Laura , León-Sampedro Ricardo , Del Campo Rosa , Coque Teresa M.
Published: July 2018

Enterococci are natural inhabitants of the intestinal tract in humans and many animals, including food-producing and companion animals. They can easily contaminate the food and the environment, entering the food chain. Moreover,Enterococcusis an important opportunistic pathogen, especially the speciesE. faecalisandE. faecium, causing a wide variety of infections. This microorganism not only contains intrinsic resistance mechanisms to several antimicrobial agents, but also has the capacity to acquire new mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance. In this review we analyze the diversity of enterococcal species and their distribution in the intestinal tract of animals. Moreover, resistance mechanisms for different classes of antimicrobials of clinical relevance are reviewed, as well as the epidemiology of multidrug-resistant enterococci of animal origin, with special attention given to beta-lactams, glycopeptides, and linezolid. The emergence of new antimicrobial resistance genes in enterococci of animal origin, such asoptrAandcfr, is highlighted. The molecular epidemiology and the population structure ofE. faecalisandE. faeciumisolates in farm and companion animals is presented. Moreover, the types of plasmids that carry the antimicrobial resistance genes in enterococci of animal origin are reviewed.
Proteins That Chaperone RNA Regulation
Authors: Woodson Sarah A. , Panja Subrata , Santiago-Frangos Andrew
Published: July 2018

RNA-binding proteins chaperone the biological functions of noncoding RNA by reducing RNA misfolding, improving matchmaking between regulatory RNA and targets, and exerting quality control over RNP biogenesis. Recent studies of
Escherichia coli
CspA, HIV NCp, and
E. coli
Hfq are beginning to show how RNA-binding proteins remodel RNA structures. These different protein families use common strategies for disrupting or annealing RNA double helices, which can be used to understand the mechanisms by which proteins chaperone RNA-dependent regulation in bacteria.
Type I Toxin-Antitoxin Systems: Regulating Toxin Expression via Shine-Dalgarno Sequence Sequestration and Small RNA Binding
Authors: Masachis Sara , Darfeuille Fabien
Published: July 2018

Toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems are small genetic loci composed of two adjacent genes: a toxin and an antitoxin that prevents toxin action. Despite their wide distribution in bacterial genomes, the reasons for TA systems being on chromosomes remain enigmatic. In this review, we focus on type I TA systems, composed of a small antisense RNA that plays the role of an antitoxin to control the expression of its toxin counterpart. It does so by direct base-pairing to the toxin-encoding mRNA, thereby inhibiting its translation and/or promoting its degradation. However, in many cases, antitoxin binding is not sufficient to avoid toxicity. Several
cis
-encoded mRNA elements are also required for repression, acting to uncouple transcription and translation via the sequestration of the ribosome binding site. Therefore, both antisense RNA binding and compact mRNA folding are necessary to tightly control toxin synthesis and allow the presence of these toxin-encoding systems on bacterial chromosomes.
Lessons from limestone: How to teach all sciences with limestone
Authors: Gibson Michael A. , Byerly Don W.
Published: July 2018

Limestone provides many lessons about Earth’s systems (geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere) through the geochemical, hydrologic, ­tectonic, and rock cycles. Limestone is ideal for teaching cross-disciplinary STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) subjects of biology, chemistry, and physics, along with history and culture through its uses in society as a valuable economic resource. Carbon and calcium chemistry is part of the everyday environment, and limestone deposits around the world are important archives of biotic and abiotic Earth history. Limestones provide data for reconstructing global climate change and provide important “documents” for recreating Earth’s changing biodiversity throughout geologic time, including human history. Limestone precipitation is Earth’s antidote to global warming. Limestone is volumetrically one of our most valuable natural resources with a variety of uses, as well as frequently involved with natural and human-induced environmental hazards. Limestone is a common commodity readily available to all teachers and students, thus it is the ideal material for ­budget-strapped STEM educators to use to address Next Generation Science Standards. Some uses include: using fossils to develop concepts of paleoecology and evolution; using limestones to reconstruct ancient geography (including plate tectonics); and addressing the relevance of limestone to our society as a building stone, for its medical uses, and as a potential hazard associated with karst (caves and sinkholes). Five cross-disciplinary content concepts are addressed to aid teachers in preparing limestone-centric instruction: (1) enhancement of the understanding of chemical reactions and geochemical cycles, (2) biological evolution, (3) physics applications, (4) economic and environmental impacts, and (5) historical and fine arts’ use of limestone.
Nutrient hotspots through time: A field guide to modern and fossil taphonomy in east Tennessee
Authors: Keenan Sarah W. , Widga Christopher , DeBruyn Jennifer M. , Schaeffer Sean M.
Published: July 2018

Hotspots represent the ephemeral introduction of nutrients into an environment, and occur in both the modern and geologic past. The annual deposition of deciduous leaves in temperate forests, tree falls, animal excrement, and vertebrate carcass deposition all result in the pulsed introduction of nutrients to an ecosystem. Hotspots are critical for providing limiting nutrients, including nitrogen and carbon, to be incorporated into soil microbial biomass and plant biomass. For vertebrate ­carcasses, following the release of labile compounds from soft tissues, bones are often left behind, and provide a more recalcitrant reservoir of organic carbon and nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, and, in some environments, water, for micro- and macro-fauna. Taphonomy—the physical, chemical, and biological processes following plant or animal death—studied in modern systems can be used to interpret hotspot processes operating in the past. East Tennessee is a region where studies of modern and fossil vertebrate hotspots have provided new insights into taphonomy. This guide describes two hotspot localities in east Tennessee—the Miocene-aged Gray Fossil Site in Gray, Tennessee, and the Anthropology Research Facility (“the Body Farm”) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, a human decomposition experimental site. The goal of this interdisciplinary field guide is to provide a view of nutrient hotspots from their formation in the modern to their preservation over geologic time.
Revisiting the Flynn Creek impact structure, Jackson County, Tennessee
Authors: Jaret Steven J. , King David T.
Published: July 2018

The Flynn Creek impact structure was originally recognized in 1968 by David Roddy as one of the original six confirmed impact structures on Earth. The Flynn Creek impact structure is also the first recognized marine-target impact structure. Exposure at Flynn Creek varies, as there is no obvious rim and the geological map of the area does not look like a crater. But, there is an impact breccia unit dominated by two classes of breccia—the lower, chaotic, slump breccia and the upper graded resurge breccia. The post-impact unit is Chattanooga Shale, of which one facies is present only in the crater itself. Participants will visit historical outcrops identified by Roddy, including both the breccia units and the central uplift. New results from ongoing reinvestigations of a drill core from Flynn Creek, as well as insight from other marine-target impact structures in the southeast, will add to lively discussions.