bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A case of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with lymphoid stroma originated in the ascending colon diagnosed as lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma
Authors: Kai Kengo , Hidaka Hideki , Nakamura Takeshi , Ueda Yuji , Marutsuka Kosuke , Ikeda Takuto , Nanashima Atsushi 
Published: December 2019

AbstractAn 86-year-old woman’s stool sample was positive for blood. Computed tomography (CT) showed wall thickening of the ascending colon at the hepatic flexure. Colonoscopy showed near-complete obturation by colon cancer. Since she was asymptomatic, elective surgery was planned. Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy was performed. Histopathological examination showed poorly differentiated carcinoma cells proliferating in a solid pattern with marked lymphocyte infiltration. The diagnosis was lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection; however, EBV-encoded small RNA–in situ hybridization was negative. Microsatellite instability was not assessed. The postoperative course was uneventful and she was discharged on the 15th postoperative day. She remains recurrence-free at 2 years after surgery. Past reports note that colorectal carcinomas with dense lymphoid stroma may be related to LELC or medullary carcinoma (MC). Gastrointestinal LELC is rare, with some reports on LELC of the esophagus and stomach. Reports on LELC of the large intestine are very rare. MC of the large intestine is relatively new concept, firstly described in the WHO Classification of Tumours of the Digestive System 3rd Edition in 2000. We herein present a case of lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the ascending colon and relevant case reports about LELC and MC of the large intestine.
Mycotoxins in blood and urine of Swedish adolescents—possible associations to food intake and other background characteristics
Authors: Warensjö Lemming Eva , Montano Montes Andrea , Schmidt Jessica , Cramer Benedikt , Humpf Hans-Ulrich , Moraeus Lotta , Olsen Monica 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe exposure to mycotoxins of Swedish adolescents is currently unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the exposure to mycotoxins and their association with food intake, and background characteristics in adolescents of a national dietary survey. About 3000 school students (1000 from the 5th, 8th and 11th school years) were recruited for the survey. The participants completed Web-based questionnaires on food propensity, sociodemography and health, and a Web-based dietary recall. Spot urine and blood samples were collected from 1105 of the participants for mycotoxin biomarker analysis. Mycotoxins were analysed with multibiomarker methods in urine (HPLC-MS/MS) and serum (HPLC-MS/MS). Of the 35 different analytes in urine, the frequency of positive samples were the following: deoxynivalenol (DON, 4.8%), DON-15-β-D-O-glucuronide (DON-15GlcA, 9.1%), dihydro-citrinone (DH-CIT, 0.5%), HT-2-glucuronide (HT-2-3-GlcA, 0.1%) and ochratoxin A (OTA, 0.1%). Of the 27 different analytes in serum, OTA was detected in all samples, while 2’R-ochratoxin A (2’R-OTA) was found in 8.3% and enniatin B (EnB) in 99.2% of the samples. Exposure assessment calculations were performed on OTA from the serum concentration and on DON equivalents (DON eqv) from the urine concentration. All probable daily intake (PDI) estimates were below tolerable daily intakes, except for 1.6% of the participants for DON. The maximum PDI was 4.3 μg DON eqv/kg body weight and day. Consumption of cereal grain commodities was associated with levels of DON, EnB or OTA in biofluids. Serum OTA was also associated with intakes of raisins and coffee. Furthermore, coffee consumption correlated well with 2’R-OTA concentration in serum. In conclusion, exposure to mycotoxins in Swedish adolescents is common, but fortunately, high exposure was rare.
Numerical investigation of a new structural configuration of a concrete barrier wall under the effect of blast loads
Authors: Taha Ahmed K. , Gao Zhengguo , Huang Dahai , Zahran M. S. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractIn this study, a non-linear three-dimensional hydrocode numerical simulation was carried out using AUTODYN-3D, which is an extensive code dealing with explosion problems. A high explosive material (comp-B) is blasted against several concrete wall barriers. The model was first validated using referenced experimental tests and has shown good results. Several numerical models were carried out to study the effect of changing the shape of wall barrier from flat to convex curve and concave curve, and also investigated the effect of changing the angle of curvature. The results showed that changing the shape of a wall barrier from flat to convex curve has the best performance in mitigating the effect of blast waves. It is also concluded that convex walls with 60° angle of curvature have the best performance compared to other barrier walls.
Tribology of Ti6Al4V: A review
Authors: Philip Jibin T , Mathew Jose , Kuriachen Basil 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe deleterious innate attribute of Ti6Al4V, the workhorse material among the alloy series of titanium is its incompetent tribo-behavior. Infinite surface modification techniques, viz., the accretion of adherent appendage layers, diffusion hardening, infusion of residual stresses, microstructural evolution, and phase transformations were attempted to enhance the wear resistance of the alloy. The need lies to establish a bridge between the indigenous material properties and the tribo-characteristics of Ti6Al4V so that the enforced improvement techniques can raise the barriers of its applicability. A critical review of the microstructural transitions, mechanisms governing tribo-behavior and the parametric conditions leading to material removal at dry sliding conditions of Ti6Al4V, falls under the scope of this manuscript. Hence, the prime focus of the approach is to impart a clear-cut perception of the minute variations in mechanical, metallurgical, and tribological characteristics of the alloy at interactive instances with distinct counter-body surfaces.
Investigation into Effects of System Design on Metro Drivers’ Safety-Related Performance: An Eye-Tracking Study
Authors: Rjabovs Aleksandrs , Palacin Roberto 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
This paper explores performance shaping factors associated with holistic design aspects of metro systems affecting driver’s behaviour based on a case study using eye-tracking techniques. Train driving is a highly visual task where the physical environment provides key visual instructions. Eye–mind theories suggest that eye movements closely follow cognitive processes when it comes to interaction with the visual world. The data for this study have been collected in a representative urban rail system serving a metropolitan area with circa 1.2 million inhabitants during 20 in-service trials. Participating drivers were asked to wear an eye-tracker while driving a train as they would normally do. The study focuses on four areas of interest at four consecutive stations. The stations have similar characteristics but differ in terms of certain design elements which are mirrors, platforms, stopping position markers and positions of a running signal. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of these elements to metro drivers. The paper assesses the usability of the system design elements through analysis of gaze fixations. Results suggest the importance of the positions of a mirror and a signal in relation to the cab, as well as the distance between a stopping point and a signal. Such factors as openness of stations, passenger loadings and informativeness of certain elements also demonstrated influence on drivers’ performance. It was also found that drivers sometimes do not check a signal before departing a station, which is a significant concern. The paper discusses factors potentially propagating such behaviour.
Aristotle and the Management Consultants: Shooting for Ethical Practice
Authors: Shaw David 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe academic literature on management consulting raises many questions about the ethics of management consulting. The uncertain, emergent, and often socially constructed nature of management consultancy knowledge limits the scope both for regulating the industry in the manner of the established professions, and for evaluating management consultants’ work objectively. The character of management consultants is therefore a central issue in how far clients and other stakeholders can trust them. This paper considers three questions, using Aristotle’sNicomachean Ethicsas a guide. These are, first, ‘What is the function of a management consultant?’, second, ‘How should a management consultant act in order to be a good management consultant?’, and third, ‘Where does the boundary lie between the ethical responsibilities of the management consultant and those of the client and other stakeholders?’ Aristotelian virtue ethics are valuable in answering these questions. Their focus on character is well suited to the distinct ethical problems of management consulting. Aristotle’s overarching concern with human flourishing, and an ethically balanced approach towards benefiting from the good things to which a virtuous person may aspire, has more promise as an influence on consultants’ behaviour than the lists of prohibitions that typify codes of ethical practice in the industry. Aristotle’s call for leaders to habituate their people to ethical behaviour should be heard by the leaders of management consultancy firms. In accordance with Aristotle’s philosophy, this paper proposes a positive target at which management consultants can aim in shooting for ethical practice.
On special extrema of polynomials with applications to Diophantine problems
Authors: Hajdu Lajos 
Published: December 2019

AbstractWe prove that apart from explicitly given cases, described in terms of Dickson polynomials, a polynomial$$f\in \mathbb {Q}[x]$$f∈Q[x]can have at most one shift$$f(x)-\lambda $$f(x)-λ$$(\lambda \in \mathbb {C})$$(λ∈C)of the form$$u(g(x))^q(h(x))^k$$u(g(x))q(h(x))kwith$$u\in \mathbb {C}$$u∈C,$$g,h\in \mathbb {C}[x]$$g,h∈C[x]and either$$\deg (g)=2$$deg(g)=2,kis even,$$q=k/2$$q=k/2or$$\deg (g)\le 1$$deg(g)≤1,$$k\ge 2$$k≥2,$$q\ge 1$$q≥1. This is shown by handling the case of two possible shifts, which was an open issue. As an application, we give a precise statement yielding a description of polynomialsfhaving infinitely many shifted power (S-integral) values, and a complete description of superelliptic equations having infinitely manyS-integral solutions when the polynomial involved is composite. In the case where there are finitely many solutions, our results yield effective bounds for them. Finally, as further applications, we give effective results for polynomial values in the solutions of Pell equations and in non-degenerate binary recurrence sequences.
Postpartum Female Sexual Function: Risk Factors for Postpartum Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Gutzeit Ola , Levy Gali , Lowenstein Lior 
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Introduction
Women's sexual health is a vital and important part of life at any age. In particular, pregnancy and childbirth bring biological, psychological, and social changes which may influence sexual health. It has been shown that sexual function declines during pregnancy and does not return to its baseline levels during the postpartum period. Despite the complexity and significance of this subject, health providers often neglect sexual aspects during pregnancy and postpartum.

Aim
We believe that clarifying the risk factors will help open conversations and improvements in sexual function.

Methods
In this review, we focus on how postpartum sexual function is affected by mode of delivery, perineal trauma during delivery, episiotomy, and lactation.

Concclusions
We conclude that the mode of delivery has no significant effect on short- and long-term postpartum sexual function. On the other hand, 3rd and 4th degree tears are strongly associated with postpartum sexual dysfunction. We found that episiotomy does not adversely affect sexual function, and lactation has a slightly negative effect. We believe that shedding light on this topic will lead to a better understanding for pregnant and postpartum women and the obstetrician. Further studies may elucidate more useful treatment approaches.
Female Sexual Orgasmic Dysfunction and Genital Sensation Deficiency
Authors: Gruenwald Ilan , Lauterbach Roy , Gartman Irena , Aharoni Saar , Lowenstein Lior 
Published: December 2019

AbstractIntroductionMost studies on female sexual dysfunction (FSD), and female sexual orgasmic disorder (FSOD) in particular, have qualitatively examined cultural and educational factors; only few have quantitatively examined physiological factors.AimThe aim of this study was to compare quantitative sensory testing (QST) between women for whom FSOD was their primary complaint and other women with FSD.MethodsIn this retrospective study of women who visited a sexual dysfunction clinic, the study group comprised women for whom FSOD was their primary complaint, and the control group comprised other women with FSD. Sexual dysfunction was assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). QST was performed with a thermal and vibration Genito-Sensory Analyzer (GSA; Medoc Ltd, Israel) aimed at the clitoral and vaginal areas.Main Outcome MeasureThe main outcome was clitoral and vibratory sensory thresholds in accordance with the presence of FSOD.ResultsThe study group comprised 89 (45%) women, with a mean age of 37.6 ± 1.9 years; and the control group comprised 110 (55%) women, with a mean age of 37.5 ± 11.3 years. Both mean FSFI-FSOD and total FSFI scores were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (0.97 ± 0.94 vs 1.91 ± 1.3, P &lt; 0.001) and (11.9 ± 3.2 vs 15.6 ± 3.6, P &lt; 0.001), respectively. Mean clitoral vibratory sensory thresholds were higher in the study group than in the control group: 2.02 confidence interval (CI) 1.12–2.64 vs 1.55 CI 1.12–2.41, P &lt; 0.001. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in vaginal vibratory thresholds: 3.7 CI 2.6–6.6 vs 3.4 CI 1.9–5.4, P = 0.14.Clinical ImplicationsThe findings support the role of the clitoris in obtaining sexual orgasm, thus inferring a possible physiologic cause of FSOD in otherwise healthy women, beyond established psychological causes.Strength & LimitationsAssessments using an objective quantitative measure (QST) and a subjective tool (FSFI) in both the FSOD and control groups are strengths of this study. The retrospective design is a limitation.ConclusionQST showed a direct correlation between vibratory clitoral stimulation and FSOD; Compared with the control group, women with FSOD are relatively insensitive to clitoral stimulation, but not to vaginal stimulation.
Pleading Guilty: A Voluntary or Coerced Decision?
Authors: Leclerc Chloé , Euvrard Elsa 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe empirical literature on plea decisions shows that rational motives and coercion may coexist, but there is uncertainty with regard to whether accused feel that their decision is voluntary or made under considerable pressure. However, in most jurisdictions, the legitimacy of the plea bargaining process rests on the Court’s obligation to ensure that the guilty plea is entered voluntarily and knowingly. This study proposes to understand how the accused interpret the rational or coercive elements of their decision-making process and the extent to which their decision to plead guilty is voluntary. Based on semi-structured interviews with twenty convicted individuals, we describe the different decision-making processes, from free and informed decisions to forced decisions to plead guilty while innocent.
Western Sahara as a Hybrid of a Parastate and a State-in-Exile: (Extra)territoriality and the Small Print of Sovereignty in a Context of Frozen Conflict
Authors: Fernández-Molina Irene , Ojeda-García Raquel 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThis article argues that the “declarative” parastate of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) claiming sovereignty over Western Sahara is better understood as a hybrid between a parastate and a state-in-exile. It relies more on external, “international legal sovereignty,” than on internal, “Westphalian” and “domestic” sovereignty. While its Algerian operational base in the Tindouf refugee camps makes it work as a primarily extraterritorial state-in-exile de facto, the SADR maintains control over one quarter of Western Sahara’s territory proper allowing it to at least partially meet the requirements for declarative statehood de jure. Many case-specific nuances surround the internal sovereignty of the SADR in relation to criteria for statehood: territory, population, and government. However, examining this case in a comparative light reveals similarities with other (secessionist) parastates. The SADR exists within the context of a frozen conflict, where the stalemate has been reinforced by an ineffective internationally brokered peace settlement and the indefinite presence of international peacekeeping forces. Global powers have played a major role in prolonging the conflict’s status quo while the specific resilience of the SADR as a parastate has been ensured by support from Algeria as an external sponsor. The path to sovereignty appears to be blocked in every possible way.
Identification of mixed and successive blood meals of mosquitoes using MALDI-TOF MS protein profiling
Authors: Tandina Fatalmoudou , Niare Sirama , Almeras Lionel , Davoust Bernard , Doumbo Ogobara K , Raoult Didier , Parola Philippe , Laroche Maureen 
Published: December 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe accurate and rapid identification of mosquito blood meals is critical to study the interactions between vectors and vertebrate hosts and, subsequently, to develop vector control strategies. Recently, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) profiling has been shown to be a reliable and effective tool for identifying single blood meals from mosquitoes.MethodsIn this study, we developed MALDI-TOF MS profiling protocols to identify Anopheles gambiae Giles, Anopheles coluzzii and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes’ mixed blood meals and the last of successive blood meals. The mosquitoes were either successively artificially fed with distinct host bloods or engorged with mixed bloods from distinct vertebrate hosts, such as humans, sheep and dogs.ResultsBlind test analyses revealed a correct identification of mixed blood meals from mosquitoes using MALDI-TOF MS profiling. The 353 MS spectra from mixed blood meals were identified using log score values >1.8. All MS spectra (n = 244) obtained from mosquitoes' successive blood meals were reproducible and specific to the last blood meal, suggesting that the previous blood meals do not have an impact on the identification of the last one.ConclusionMALDI-TOF MS profiling approach appears to be an effective and robust technique to identify the last and mixed blood meals during medical entomological surveys.
Bioinformatic analysis of eosinophil activity and its implications for model and target species
Authors: Jenvey C.J. , Alenizi D. , Almasi F. , Cairns C. , Holmes A. , Sloan S. , Stear M.J. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractEosinophils are important immune cells that have been implicated in resistance to gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections in both naturally and experimentally infected sheep. Proteins of particular importance appear to be IgA-Fc alpha receptor (FcαRI), C-C chemokine receptor type 3 (CCR3), proteoglycan 3 (PRG3, major basic protein 2) and EPX (eosinophil peroxidase). We used known human nucleotide sequences to search the ruminant genomes, followed by translation to protein and sequence alignments to visualize differences between sequences and species. Where a sequence was retrieved for cow, but not for sheep and goat, this was used additionally as a reference sequence. In this review, we show that eosinophil function varies among host species. Consequently, investigations into the mechanisms of ruminant immune responses to GIN should be conducted using the natural host. Specifically, we address differences in protein sequence and structure for eosinophil proteins.
Course and symptom and functional correlates of passivity symptoms in schizophrenia: an 18-year multi-follow-up longitudinal study
Authors: Herbener Ellen S. , Harrow Martin 
Published: December 2019

AbstractBackgroundChange in the experience of oneself may lay the groundwork for the development of additional hallucinations and delusions in individuals with schizophrenia. However, to date, the course and symptom and functioning correlates of passivity symptoms (cf. thought insertion, thought withdrawal) have not been measured consistently over long periods of time. Information on the course and correlates of passivity symptoms is essential for developing models of their contribution to schizophrenic illness.MethodEighty-two individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were recruited at an index hospitalization and reassessed at three or more follow-ups over the following 18 years.ResultsThe results indicate that a small group of participants report passivity symptoms at all follow-ups, many reported passivity symptoms at some follow-ups, and the majority of individuals never reported passivity symptoms. The prevalence of passivity symptoms was similar to that for delusions of reference and persecutory delusions. Notably, when individuals did experience passivity symptoms, they also had a greater number of additional psychotic symptoms than individuals without passivity symptoms. Further, the presence of passivity symptoms was associated with work impairment at some assessments.ConclusionsPassivity symptoms present episodically, at a similar rate as delusions of reference and persecutory delusions, and when present, they are associated with having a higher number of additional psychotic symptoms, as well as having some impact on work functioning. These results suggest that passivity symptoms may increase vulnerability to additional psychotic symptoms and greater work impairment.
CAPITAL IN A FRONTIER ECONOMY: PORTUGAL, 1230–1500
Authors: Henriques António 
Published: December 2019

ABSTRACTIn this paper we show that Portugal benefitted from comparatively low-interest rates from the 13thcentury onwards, well before the generalised drop in interest rates in Europe. Contrary to the thesis that frontier economies struggle with high-interest rates and scarcity of capital, we find that the country's low and stable interest rates can be explained by its wide availability of land, combined with monetary stability and a favourable institutional network. These conclusions are built upon an entirely new dataset of interest rates and returns on capital for Portugal in the period 1230–1500.