bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing selenium supply during the close‐up dry period improves nutrient metabolism and attenuates inflammatory response after calving in dairy cows
Authors: Gong Jian , Xiao Min
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate whether feeding selenium (Se)‐replete cows a Se‐yeast supplement in late pregnancy affects nutrient metabolism and inflammatory response during the periparturient period. Twenty cows were randomly assigned to two groups with 10 cows each. Cows in one group received Se‐yeast at 0.3 mg Se/kg DM during the last 4 weeks before calving in addition to fed a TMR containing supplemented sodium selenite at 0.3 mg Se/kg DM (Se‐yeast), while cows in another group were only fed a TMR containing supplemented sodium selenite at 0.3 mg Se/kg DM (Control). Blood samples were collected and analyzed for nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), glucose, insulin, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), and albumin. In control cows, plasma NEFA, IL‐1β, IL‐6, SAA, and Hp levels increased after calving, but glucose, insulin, and albumin levels decreased after parturition. Se‐yeast supplemental cows had lower postpartum concentrations of NEFA, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, SAA, and Hp, and higher postpartum levels of glucose, insulin, and albumin compared with control cows. The results indicate that feeding Se‐replete cows a Se‐yeast supplement in late pregnancy improves nutrient metabolism and attenuates the inflammatory response after calving.
Gross morphology of the African lion (Pantheraleo) heart
Authors: Marais Carmen Alicia , Crole Martina Rachel
Published: April 2021

The anatomy of the African lion heart is not well documented, and assumptions are made that the anatomy is comparable to that of the domestic cat. The increasing demand for veterinary intervention in the African lion warrants sound anatomical knowledge of the heart. The heart is situated caudal to the thoracic limbs between ribs 4 and 6. It is covered by the left cranial lung lobe, and cranial and middle lobe of the right lung, respectively, with a prominent cardiac incisure present on the right. Two pericardial ligaments are present, the A. coronaria dextra is dominant, and the Atrium dextrum and Auricula dextra possess a vast network of Mm. pectinati. The massive thoracic limbs, adapted to bring down prey, appear to restrict the cranial thoracic cavity, and as a trade‐off, the thoracic viscera are situated more caudally. During intense activity, the heart and lungs compete against each other for space, thus limiting physical activity to short, intense periods. Capacity for sudden increase of cardiac output is facilitated by the extensive Mm. pectinati of the Atrium dextrum. Intracardiac injection is recommended on the right, ventrally in intercostal space 5. The two pericardial ligaments may help to stabilize the heart during intense activity.
Don't move a mussel? Parasite and disease risk in conservation action
Authors: Brian Joshua I. , Ollard Isobel S. , Aldridge David C.
Published: April 2021

Freshwater mussels are one of the most endangered animal groups globally, making them a high conservation priority. Conservationists increasingly employ translocation or captive breeding procedures to support ailing populations, and the ecosystem engineering capabilities of mussels are being increasingly harnessed in bioremediation projects. However, there is little consideration of the risk of pathogen transmission when moving mussels from hatcheries or wild donor populations into new habitats. This is of significant concern as recent developments suggest parasites and diseases are highly prevalent and have contributed to several mass population‐level die‐offs. Here, we explicitly highlight the risks of pathogen spread in mussel translocations, explore how these risks are mediated, and provide recommendations for both research and action to avoid the inadvertent spread of virulent pathogens when conserving vulnerable mussel populations. While targeted at freshwater conservationists, this perspective has relevance for considering translocation‐mediated disease and parasite spread in any study system.
Serum alkaline phosphatase is associated with arterial stiffness and 10‐year cardiovascular disease risk in a Chinese population
Authors: Guo Wen , Li Xiaona , Wu Juan , Zhu Wenfang , Lu Jing , Qin Pei , Diao Qingqing , Xu Nainzhen , Zhang Qun
Published: April 2021

Background

Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) has been recognized as a biomarker of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, recently. This study aimed to explore the association of ALP with arterial stiffness and 10‐year CVD risk.

Methods

A total of 12 539 participants without CVD who underwent health examinations including serum ALP level were retrospectively analysed. Arterial stiffness was measured by brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), and 10‐year CVD risk was evaluated by Framingham risk score.

Results

All participants were stratified into four groups according to the quartile of serum ALP. Participants with high ALP quartiles had higher cardiovascular parameters and baPWV, as well as an increase 10‐year CVD risk. There was a dose‐response relationship between serum ALP level and baPWV (OR = 1.134, 95% CI 1.103‐1.165, P < .001). Logistic regression analysis showed that serum ALP was positively associated with elevated baPWV and 10‐year CVD risk after adjustment for traditional CVD risk factors in both women and men. In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the optimal cut‐off point of serum ALP for elevated baPWV was 84U/L and the area under the ROC curve (AUROC) was 0.740 (95% CI 0.726‐0.754, P < .001), with 71.2% and 63.4% sensitivity and specificity, respectively, in women. The AUROC of serum ALP in women was larger than that in men [0.575 (95% CI 0.559‐0.590), P < .001].

Conclusions

Serum ALP is independently associated with arterial stiffness and 10‐year CVD risk. Our results imply that serum ALP may be a promising marker to identify an increased risk for subclinical atherosclerosis in women needing further evaluation.
Prevalence and risk factors of hypertonic dehydration among older patients admitted to the emergency department: A prospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Buaprasert Phudit , Piyapaisarn Sawangwarach , Vanichkulbodee Alissara , Kamsom Anucha , Sri‐on Jiraporn
Published: April 2021

Aim

The prevalence of hypertonic dehydration (HD) among community‐dwelling and hospitalized populations has been evaluated. However, to our knowledge, no study had previously focused on older patients admitted to the emergency department (ED). The present study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, risk factors and short‐term outcomes of HD among Thai older patients admitted to the ED.

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional study at one urban ED in Thailand. Patients aged ≥65 years who were admitted to the ED were enrolled into the study. Data including clinical hydration status, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score, activities of daily living score, current use of medications, laboratory examination results and serum osmolarity level were collected. HD was defined as a serum osmolarity level of >300 mOsm/kg. The short‐term outcomes were a 30‐day ED revisit, hospital readmission and mortality rates.

Results

In total, 80 (21.6%) of 370 patients presented with HD. A CCI score of ≥5 was found associated with HD among older patients (adjusted odds ratio: 1.82; 95% confidence interval: 1.03–3.21). The ED revisit rates were 18.1% in the dehydrated group and 10.9% in the non‐dehydrated group. The hospital readmission rates were 8.3% in the dehydrated group and 10.6% in the non‐dehydrated group. Furthermore, the 30‐day mortality rates were 6.9% and 5.3% in the dehydrated and non‐dehydrated groups, respectively.

Conclusions

One‐fifth of older patients admitted to the ED presented with HD. A CCI score of ≥5 was considered a risk factor of HD. Moreover, further studies should focus on the long‐term outcomes of HD and risk reduction. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 485–491.
SUCCEEDING BY FAILING: THE BERNAUER STRASSE WALL MEMORIAL AS PERFORMATIVE MEMORIAL
Authors: Bertens Laura M. F.
Published: April 2021

The Berlin street Bernauer Straße has played an important role in the history of the Berlin Wall, from its initial construction to its demolition. Nowadays it contains the longest remaining stretch of the border zone and an elaborate memorial has been constructed on the site. The memorial is a complex space: it seamlessly blends in with its surroundings, uses a range of media and serves multiple purposes at once. It is this apparent failure to represent a coherent whole that is paradoxically its main strength. A closer look at the workings of the memorial explains its success. The article presents an analysis of the memorial from three different perspectives: a discussion of the eclectic nature of the original Wall and the ways in which the memorial represents this, a look at the memorial as an archaeological site and, finally, an exploration of the performative nature of the memorial.

   

Die Bernauer Straße in Berlin spielte eine wichtige Rolle in der Geschichte der Berliner Mauer, von ihrer Entstehung bis zu ihrem Abriss. Heutzutage befindet sich hier der längste noch bestehende Abschnitt des ehemaligen Grenzstreifens und eine umfassende Gedenkstätte wurde dort errichtet. Die Gedenkstätte ist ein komplexer Ort: sie fügt sich scheinbar nahtlos in ihre Umgebung ein, bedient sich diverser Medien und erfüllt mehrere Zwecke zugleich. Es ist dieses augenscheinliche Scheitern ein kohärentes Ganzes darzustellen, das paradoxerweise die eigentliche Stärke dieses Ortes ausmacht. Eine nähere Betrachtung der Funktionsweise der Gedenkstätte erklärt ihren Erfolg. Dieser Artikel bietet eine Analyse aus drei verschiedenen Blickwinkeln: eine Diskussion über den eklektischen Charakter der Originalmauer und die Art und Weise wie diese dargestellt wird, ein Blick auf die Gedenkstätte als archäologische Fundstätte und zuletzt eine Betrachtung ihrer performativen Eigenschaften.
Pathological coagulation parameters in as many as 54 patients with autoimmune acquired factor XIII deficiency due to anti–factor XIII autoantibodies
Authors: Ichinose Akitada , Osaki Tsukasa , Souri Masayoshi
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Autoimmune factor XIII (FXIII) deficiency (AiF13D) due to anti‐FXIII autoantibodies is an extremely rare, life‐threatening bleeding disorder that mostly occurs in the elderly. The number of patients diagnosed with AiF13D has been increasing in Japan, probably because of the nationwide survey on AiF13D supported by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

Aim

To explore the pathologic characteristics of coagulation parameters in AiF13D.

Methods

AiF13D‐suspected cases were consulted, and underwent unified/integrated coagulation screening and were definitively diagnosed as AiF13D separately.

Results

AiF13D patients had lower FXIII antigen levels than non‐AiF13D patients, but their values overlapped. Among a series of 22‐item screening tests and their resulting parameters, the ‘FXIII inhibitory potential’ yielded by a 1:1 mixing test of the patient's and healthy control's plasma and its ‘residual FXIII activity’ in 54 AiF13D cases were most distinguishable from 139 non‐AiF13D cases, followed by FXIII activity per se and FXIII‐specific activity. While the cross‐linked α2‐plasmin inhibitor level reduced, the levels of D‐dimer, fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products and plasmin‐plasmin inhibitor complex increased, probably because the patients’ haematoma nonspecifically induced secondary fibrinolysis in both AiF13D and non‐AiF13D patients.

Conclusion

AiF13D appears to induce a hypocoagulopathy combined with a hyper‐fibrinolytic state secondary to severe FXIII deficiency caused by anti‐FXIII autoantibodies, and the consequent bleeding further modifies its pathological conditions. In addition, the 1:1 mixing test of FXIII activity was confirmed to be a reliable screening method for AiF13D, especially when its derivative parameter, such as the ‘FXIII inhibitory potential’ or ‘FXIII inhibitory potential ratio’, is employed.
Oral multivalent epitope vaccine, based on UreB, HpaA, CAT, and LTB, for prevention and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in C57BL / 6 mice
Authors: Xie Wenwei , Zhao Wenfeng , Zou Ziling , Kong Lingyi , Yang Lei
Published: April 2021

Background

As the resistance of Helicobacter pylori to traditional triple therapy is gradually revealed, an increasing number of people are focusing on vaccine treatments for H. pylori infection. Epitope vaccines are a promising strategy for the treatment of H. pylori infection, and multivalent vaccines will be more effective than monovalent vaccines.

Materials and methods

In this study, we designed a multivalent vaccine named LHUC, which consists of the adjuvant LTB as well as three Th cell epitopes (HpaA154‐171, UreB237‐251, and UreB546‐561) and five B‐cell epitopes (UreB349‐363, UreB327‐334, CAT394‐405, CAT387‐397, and HpaA132‐141) from UreB, HpaA, and catalase. In BALB/c mice, the specificity and immunogenicity of the fusion peptide LHUC and the neutralization of H. pylori urease and catalase by the specific IgG elicited by LHUC were evaluated. The preventive and therapeutic effects of LHUC were evaluated in C57BL/6 mice infected with H. pylori.

Results

The results showed that compared with LTB and PBS, LHUC induced specific IgG and IgA antibody production in mice, and IgG antibodies significantly inhibited the H. pylori urease and catalase activities in vitro. Additionally, by detecting the levels of IFN‐γ, IL‐4, and IL‐17 in lymphocyte supernatants, we proved that LHUC could activate Th1, Th2, and Th17 mixed T‐cell immune responses in vivo. Finally, a C57BL/6 mouse model of gastric infection with H. pylori was established. The results showed that compared with the effects of LTB and PBS, the prevention and treatment effects of oral inoculation with LHUC significantly inhibited bacterial colonization.

Conclusions

In conclusion, LHUC, a multivalent vaccine based on multiple H. pylori antigens, is a promising and safe vaccine that can effectively reduce the colonization of H. pylori in the stomach.
Meta‐analysis of the effect of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on hepatic fibrosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Song Tiantian , Chen Shuchun , Zhao Hang , Wang Fei , Song Huan , Tian Dongliang , Yang Qiwen , Qi Licui
Published: April 2021

Aim

This study aimed to analyze the effects of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on the indexes of liver fibrosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, and also to observe the effects on liver enzymes and liver fat.

Methods

This meta‐analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 statistical software.

Results

SGLT2 inhibitors could significantly reduce the level of hepatic fibrosis index: fibrosis‐4 (mean difference [MD] 0.25, 95% CI −0.39 to −0.11, p = 0.0007); serum type Ⅳ collagen 7s (MD 0.32, 95% CI −0.59 to −0.04, p = 0.02); and ferritin (MD 26.7, 95% CI 50.64, 2.76, p = 0.03). SGLT2 inhibitors could significantly reduce the level of liver enzymes: alanine aminotransferase (MD 3.49, 95% CI −5.1 to 1.58, p < 0.0001); aspartate aminotransferase (MD 3.64, 95% CI −5.10 to −2.18, p < 0.00001); and glutamate aminotransferase (MD 7.13, 95% CI −12.95 to −1.32, p = 0.02). SGLT2 inhibitors could significantly reduce the level of liver fat: liver‐to‐spleen attenuation ratio (MD 0.16, 95% CI 0.10–0.22, p < 0.00001); magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction (MD 1.97, 95% CI −3.49 to −0.45, p = 0.01); liver controlled attenuation parameter (MD 0.29, 95% CI −26.95 to −13.64, p < 0.00001); liver fat score (MD 0.55, 95% CI 1.04 to −0.05, p = 0.03); and liver fat index (MD 11.21, 95% CI −16.53 to −5.89, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

SGLT2 inhibitors could improve liver fibrosis, liver enzymes, liver fat, and metabolic indexes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Racial and socioeconomic disparities in the efficacy of a family‐based treatment programme for paediatric obesity
Authors: Davison Genevieve M. , Fowler Lauren A. , Ramel Melissa , Stein Richard I. , Conlon Rachel P.K. , Saelens Brian E. , Welch R. Robinson , Perri Michael G. , Epstein Leonard H. , Wilfley Denise E.
Published: April 2021

Background

Family‐based behavioural weight loss treatment (FBT) is an evidence‐based intervention for paediatric overweight/obesity (OV/OB), but little research has examined the relative efficacy of FBT across socioeconomic status (SES), and racial groups.

Method

A total of 172 youth (7‐11 years; 61.6% female; 70.1% White, 15.7% Black; child percent OV = 64.2 ± 25.2; 14.5% low‐income) completed 4 months of FBT and 8 months of additional intervention (either active social facilitation‐based weight management or an education control condition). Parents reported family income, social status (Barratt simplified measure of social status) and child race at baseline. Household income was dichotomized into < or >50% of the area median family income. Race was classified into White, Black or other/multi‐race. Treatment efficacy was assessed by change in child % OV (BMI % above median BMI for age and sex) and change in child BMI % of 95th percentile (BMI % of the 95th percentile of weight for age and sex). Latent change score models examined differences in weight change between 0 and 4 months, 4 and 12 months and 0 and 12 months by income, social status and race.

Results

Black children had, on average, less weight loss by 4 months compared to White children. Low‐income was associated with less weight loss at 4 months when assessed independent of race. No differences by race, social status or income were detected from 4 to 12‐months or from 0 to 12 months.

Conclusions

FBT is effective at producing child weight loss across different SES and racial groups, but more work is needed to understand observed differences in initial efficacy and optimize treatment across all groups.
Cognitive Load and Occupational Injuries
Authors: Bonsang Eric , Caroli Eve
Published: April 2021

We investigate the relationship between cognitive load and occupational injuries. Cognitive load is defined in the literature as a tax on bandwidth which reduces cognitive resources. We proxy cognitive load with the number of nonprofessional tasks that individuals perform during weekdays. The underlying assumption is that when individuals perform many of those tasks, this requires mental organization which reduces available cognitive resources. We show that being cognitively loaded is associated with an increase in the risk of occupational injury for both males and females. The effect is stronger for individuals in high‐risk occupations and, among those, for low‐educated workers.
What Explains Differences in Finance Research Productivity during the Pandemic?
Authors: BARBER BRAD M. , JIANG WEI , MORSE ADAIR , PURI MANJU , TOOKES HEATHER , WERNER INGRID M.
Published: April 2021

Based on a survey of American Finance Association members, we analyze how demographics, time allocation, production mechanisms, and institutional factors affect research production during the pandemic. Consistent with the literature, research productivity falls more for women and faculty with young children. Independently, and novel, extra time spent on teaching (much more likely for women) negatively affects research productivity. Also novel, concerns about feedback, isolation, and health have large negative research effects, which disproportionately affect junior faculty and PhD students. Finally, faculty who express greater concerns about employers’ finances report larger negative research effects and more concerns about feedback, isolation, and health.
The role of social meaning in contact‐induced variation among new speakers of Basque
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ordóñez Itxaso
Published: April 2021

This study examines the variable use and the social meaning of a contact‐induced phenomenon in Basque, Differential Object Marking, to explain the emergence of new variation in a minoritized language situation. The spontaneous speech of 77 Basque–Spanish bilinguals was analyzed and compared to the perception results obtained from a matched‐guise experiment. I situate this analysis using emergent participant self‐identification categories that lie along a continuum of Basque speaker authenticity. Production results show that DOM use increases according to a speaker's self‐ascribed authenticity, but the matched‐guise analyses indicate that some DOM uses may undermine the speaker's perceived authenticity. I discuss the ideological multiplicity of DOM within its semiotic landscape and consider practice‐based approaches to variation in explaining this paradox. The evidence lends support for social meaning‐based accounts of variation that also consider speakerhood as an agentive process, and it additionally challenges models that directly correlate language use to acts of identity.
Nursing Home Adaptation in Visually Impaired Older Adults Using a Narrative Approach1,2
Authors: Toyoshima Aya
Published: April 2021

This study used a narrative approach to examine the difficulties that older visually impaired people experience when adapting to life in a nursing home. The interview data were collected from one blind aged person (n = 1), focusing on the adaptation process from moving into the nursing home to the present and maintaining context of narrative that included the life history. Subcategories were extracted based on a framework of temporal coherence, causal coherence, thematic coherence, and situational coherence. This study revealed three factors related to adaptation to life in a nursing home for a visually impaired person, including psychological adaptation: becoming accustomed to life in the facility after changes in the living environment, having gratitude and maintaining “moderating human relationships,” and participating in activities connected to one's purpose in life. He was able to psychologically adapt and came to accept his death through an awareness of aging.
Self‐Regulation, Co‐Regulation, and Socially Shared Regulation of Motivation for Collaborative Activity: Comparison Between University Students and Working Adults1
Authors: Ito Takamichi , Umemoto Takatoyo
Published: April 2021

Self‐regulated learning theory assumes that self‐regulated learning appears as a socially shared phenomenon with collaborative processes, but there is little research focused on self‐regulation, co‐regulation, and socially shared regulation of “motivation for collaborative activity.” This study aimed to examine how previous performance level and motivational antecedent factors (i.e., self‐efficacy, task values) influence the three modes of regulation of intrinsic motivation, by comparing university students with working adults. Participants—397 university students and 380 working adults—completed questionnaires. Multigroup structural equation modeling revealed that previous performance level, self‐efficacy, and utility value positively predicted the three modes of regulation in both groups. In addition, previous performance level positively influenced self‐efficacy and task values. Interest value, which refers to the belief about interest in the task, positively predicted all three modes of regulation in working adults. In addition, the path coefficient of previous performance level to self‐regulation in university students was significantly higher than in working adults. We discuss possible reasons for the significant differences in regulation of motivation for collaborative activity between university students and working adults.
Longitudinal qualitative research in medical education: Time to conceptualise time
Authors: Balmer Dorene F. , Varpio Lara , Bennett Deirdre , Teunissen Pim W.
Published: April 2021

Context

Longitudinal qualitative research is an approach to research that entails generating qualitative data with the same participants over extended periods of time to understand their lived experiences as those experiences unfold. Knowing about dynamic lived experiences in medical education, that is, learning journeys with stops and starts, detours, transitions and reversals, enriches understanding of events and accomplishments along the way. The purpose of this paper is to create access points to longitudinal qualitative research in support of increasing its use in medical education.

Methods

The authors explore and argue for different conceptualisations of time: analysing lived experiences through time versus analysing lived experiences cross‐sectional or via 2‐point follow‐up studies and considering time as subjective and fluid as well as objective and fixed. They introduce applications of longitudinal qualitative research from several academic domains: investigating development and formal education; building longitudinal research relationship; and exploring interconnections between individual journeys and social structures. They provide an illustrative overview of longitudinal qualitative research in medical education, and end with practical advice, or pearls, for medical education investigators interested in using this research approach: collecting data recursively; analysing longitudinal data in three strands; addressing mutual reflexivity; using theory to illuminate time; and making a long‐term commitment to longitudinal qualitative research.

Conclusions

Longitudinal qualitative research stretches investigators to think differently about time and undertake more complex analyses to understand dynamic lived experiences. Research in medical education will likely be impoverished if the focus remains on time as fixed. Seeing things qualitatively through time, where time is fluid and the past, present and future interpenetrate, produces a rich understanding that can move the field forward.
Cardiovascular safety of naltrexone and bupropion therapy: Systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Sposito Andrei C. , Bonilha Isabella , Luchiari Beatriz , Benchimol Alexander , Hohl Alexandre , Moura Fabio , Cercato Cíntia , Geloneze Bruno , Nadruz Wilson , Aguilar‐Salinas Carlos , Carvalho Luiz Sergio F.
Published: April 2021

Despite being approved for clinical use, evidence of cardiovascular safety (CV) is lacking for treatment with bupropion, naltrexone, or their combination (B‐N). The purpose of the study is to determine the relationship between these treatments and the risk of major cardiovascular adverse events (MACE). Phase 3 randomized clinical trials (RCT) evaluating bupropion, naltrexone, or B‐N versus control with reported incidence of MACE. The meta‐analysis included 12 RCTs, 69% for weight loss and 29% for smoking cessation, with 19,176 patients and 7354 patient‐years who were randomized to an active treatment (bupropion [n = 2965] or B‐N [n = 6980] or naltrexone [n = 249]) versus control (placebo [n = 6968] or nicotine patch [n = 2014]). The mean age was 54 ± 8 years (55% female), and the baseline BMI was 32 ± 5 kg/m2. The additive network meta‐analysis model for random effects showed no association between bupropion, B‐N, or naltrexone and MACE (odds ratio [OR] = 0.90 [95%CI 0.65–1.25], p = 0.52; OR = 0.97 [95%CI 0.75–1.24], p = 0.79; OR = 1.08 [95%CI 0.71–1.63], p = 0.73, respectively; I2 = 0%, p = 0.86). Meta‐regression analyses showed no significant association between MACE and potential confounders from RCT demographic disparities (p = 0.58). The statistical power (post hoc two‐tailed) for non‐inferiority was 91%, giving a strong probability of validity. Naltrexone, bupropion, or B‐N is not associated with the incidence of MACE as compared with placebo.
Beyond government size: Types of government intervention and corruption
Authors: Bel Germà
Published: April 2021

Evidence on the relationship between government size and corruption is mixed, and might be misleading, as government size is usually measured by fiscal size. The core hypothesis in this research is that the type of government intervention in the economy – rather than the size of government – is a key explanatory factor for corruption. The empirical analysis disentangles the effects of the two main government tools for intervention: fiscal and regulatory. The main result is that fiscal burden does not present any significant relationship with corruption. In contrast, a consistent and significant positive association is found between regulatory burden and corruption. Furthermore, legal origins and democratic experience contribute to explaining differences in corruption. [Correction added on 22 April 2021, after first online publication: In the Abstract, the word ‘quality’ has been replaced with ‘burden’.]
Exploring the Victimization of Syrian Refugees through the Human Security Model: An Ethnographic Approach
Authors: Akgul Arif , Gurer Cuneyt , Aydin Hasan
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the human security aspect of the Syrian refugee crisis and to analyse the vulnerability and victimization of Syrian refugees in Turkey. Among the several categories within the human security model (i.e. economic, food, health, environmental, personal, community, and political) as conceptualized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the study analysed the personal (i.e. individual) security of Syrian refugees in Turkey. A qualitative research design was employed with an applied ethnographic approach which included semi‐structured interviews, observations, document analysis, and field notes. Five main themes were identified regarding the personal security of Syrians: violence, homelessness, prostitution and early marriage, child labour, and deadly journeys. The results of the study indicate that Syrian refugees are exposed to several human insecurity parameters at the individual level, which are largely neglected by the Turkish state. Consequently, Turkey’s failure to promote the human security of the Syrian refugees contributes to their forced migration to Western countries, where ‘freedom from fear’, ‘freedom from want’, and ‘freedom from indignity’ are relatively assured.
Mediated Islamophobia and Local Coexistence: A Case Study of Two Muslim‐Concentration Suburbs in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Colic‐Peisker Val , Mikola Masa
Published: April 2021

This article introduces the conceptual distinctions between “mediated” and “immediate” Islamophobia. “Mediated” Islamophobia refers to the fact that most people who express Islamophobic sentiment do not know (m)any Muslims and know little about Islam; their knowledge about Islam and Muslims, and any Islamophobic sentiment they may have, come from the exposure to traditional and/or social media. Given the documented Islamophobic bias of many “Western” media, “mediated” Islamophobia may be on the rise. On the other hand, research has shown that what we call “immediate” Islamophobia is less of a problem: People who know Muslims personally, live close to them and are better informed about Islam, are less likely to be Islamophobic. This article uses empirical data to contribute to the discussion of immediate, face‐to‐face experiences of residents in two Muslim‐concentration areas in Melbourne, Australia, with a reference to the “contact theory.” We analyze residents’ perceptions of Muslims and Islam based on everyday encounters with their (Muslim) neighbors, and Muslims’ perceptions and direct experiences of Islamophobia. We use data collected through a survey and follow‐up interviews to support our conceptual argument.
Beyond trigger warnings: Toward a trauma‐informed andragogy for the graduate theological classroom*
Authors: Davidson Jennifer W.
Published: April 2021

Although development of trauma‐informed pedagogy for elementary and secondary classrooms has developed significantly, a dearth of resources for trauma‐informed andragogy in graduate theological classrooms remains. Theological classrooms are a unique context in which many students and professors carry experiences of trauma with them. This article makes the case for the need for a trauma‐informed andragogical model for the graduate theological classroom by: discussing the pervasiveness of trauma; providing definitions of key terms that need to be understood for elaborating a trauma‐informed andragogy; recommending trauma‐informed principles for course design and class‐session planning based in safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment; and identifying a few next steps for cultivating trauma‐informed classrooms and institutions at the graduate level.
Universal Skills Framework for Migrants, Asylum Seekers and Refugees – A Mapping on the Required Skills While Entering the European Labour Market
Authors: Tountopoulou Maria , Vlachaki Fotini , Triantafillopoulou Maria-Eirini
Published: April 2021

Migration flows are steadily increasing worldwide. Especially in Europe, the percentage of immigrants from third countries generally ranges from 9% to 17%. As one of the main factors that plays an important role in the overall integration of migrant groups in host countries is their ability to work, there is an emerging need for effective policies and mechanisms to identify and certify skills and qualifications of migrants, asylum seekers and refugees in order to enable them to integrate effectively into the labor market.Many existing skills frameworks at European and international level emphasize the importance of cognitive skills as well as non-cognitive skills, attitudes and also the crucial role of personality traits that determine the success and employability of the workforce. A framework for universal skills is proposed based on a thorough literature review of the existing international frameworks and of the skills and competencies required to integrate into the labor market. In addition, a field survey with a structured questionnaire was conducted with both employers and migrant groups, to capture the views of both on the selected skills included in the framework and to confirm the extent to which those skills are considered important towards the labor market integration of migrant groups in the host countries.The results of the research highlighted on one hand the importance of hard skills required to perform a task and on the other hand the soft skills that are of particular importance regardless of the profession. Moreover, a high majority of both groups stated that skills profiling and online assessment tools that matches skills with labour market needs would be valuable in recruiting procedures.
Los cardones en los tijerales. El uso de la madera de cactus columnares en el patrimonio arquitectónico de la Puna de Atacama (Susques, Jujuy, Argentina)
Authors: Barbarich María Florencia , Tomasi Jorge
Published: April 2021

Trichocereus atacamensis es una de las especies vegetales utilizadas en la construcción tradicional en el altiplano. Considerando que los materiales, las técnicas y saberes constructivos se constituyen como prácticas sociales y tienen valor simbólico e implicancias en la definición de los grupos domésticos, se propuso estudiar el uso de la madera del cardón en la estructura de los techos en la arquitectura doméstica en la comunidad de Susques (Jujuy, Argentina). El trabajo se realizó con los aportes y análisis conjuntos de la etnobotánica y la arquitectura, con un intensivo trabajo de campo con enfoque etnográfico, realizando relevamiento de construcciones, entrevistas a constructores, recorridos y observación participante. Los resultados presentan detalles sobre las distintas estrategias para la selección, extracción y procesamiento de la materia prima, donde sobresalen los aspectos botánicos que convierten al cardón en un material destacado y apropiado. Dentro de la arquitectura doméstica, se estudió principalmente su uso en techos, poniendo énfasis en las piezas y estructuras. Como conclusión, se observa que más allá de la posibilidad de acceso y de uso del recurso como material, el rol vigente de la madera de cardón en el ámbito doméstico se da por su significación.
Los museos como herramienta de activación del patrimonio portuario de la localidad de Ingeniero White (Argentina)
Authors: Leonardi Viviana , Elías Silvina , Audino Patricia
Published: April 2021

A partir de la incorporación definitiva de la Argentina a la división internacional del trabajo hacia 1880, el capital británico ocupará un lugar destacado en la creación de una extensa red ferroviaria. En este contexto, Ingeniero White, fundado como localidad portuaria, está íntimamente ligada a la empresa de capitales británicos del Ferrocarril del Sud, que en septiembre de 1885 habilitó un muelle de hierro al cual llegaban las vías del ferrocarril. También recibió el primer contingente de inmigrantes en 1911, cuando se intentaba encauzar su localización en el interior del país. Este proceso de desarrollo posibilitó que el puerto de Bahía Blanca y la localidad de Ingeniero White presenten una diversidad de componentes culturales de significancia histórica para la sociedad local.

Sin embargo, el avance de una dinámica apática patrimonial por parte de actores políticos y económicos (Pinassi, 2018) ha derivado en un proceso de degradación que activó reclamos y proyectos que aspiran a preservar este patrimonio cultural asociado a la actividad ferroportuaria. Por ello, a fin de preservar el patrimonio, y de contrarrestar aquellos acontecimientos que lo pusieron en peligro, en el año 1987, por iniciativa de un grupo de vecinos, se crea el Museo del Puerto, primer museo portuario de la localidad de Ingeniero White. Posteriormente, en el año 2003 nace Ferrowhite, instalado en el edificio que fuera taller de la usina General San Martín.

Este trabajo pretende analizar el rol que cumplen los museos de la localidad de Ingeniero White en la preservación del patrimonio portuario. Para ello, se examinarán las diferentes estrategias que llevan a cabo dichos museos a los fines de posibilitar la puesta en escena del testimonio histórico de cada bien cultural, sensibilizando la opinión pública, contribuyendo a la educación cultural de la comunidad local y al fortalecimiento de la identidad.
CenterTrack3D: Improved CenterTrack More Suitable for Three-Dimensional Objects
Authors: Gu Lipeng , Sun Shaoyuan , Liu Xunhua , Li Xiang
Published: April 2021

Compared with two-dimensional (2D) multi-object tracking (MOT) algorithms, three-dimensional (3D) multi-object tracking algorithms have more research significance and broad application prospects in the unmanned vehicles research field. Aiming at the problem of 3D multi-object detection and tracking, in this paper, the multi-object tracker CenterTrack, which focuses on 2D multi-object tracking task while ignoring object 3D information, is improved mainly from two aspects of detection and tracking, and the improved network is called CenterTrack3D. In terms of detection, CenterTrack3D uses the idea of attention mechanism to optimize the way that the previous-frame image and the heatmap of previous-frame tracklets are added to the current-frame image as input, and second convolutional layer of the hm output head is replaced by dynamic convolution layer, which further improves the ability to detect occluded objects. In terms of tracking, a cascaded data association algorithm based on 3D Kalman filter is proposed to make full use of the 3D information of objects in the image and increase the robustness of the 3D multi-object tracker. The experimental results show that, compared with the original CenterTrack and the existing 3D multi-object tracking methods, CenterTrack3D achieves 88.75% MOTA for cars and 59.40% MOTA for pedestrians and is very competitive on the KITTI tracking benchmark test set.
On Quantitative Assessment of Effective Cement Bonding to Guarantee Wellbore Integrity
Authors: Santos Livio , Dahi Taleghani Arash
Published: April 2021

Methane leakage due to compromised wellbore cement integrity may result in operational complications and environmental contaminations in oil and gas wells. In this work, the problem of fluid-driven fracture propagation at the cement interfaces is revisited by a thorough and comprehensive consideration of the non-uniform cement bonding to the formation along the wellbore. While previous works were mainly focused on discharge without attention to mechanical failure or mechanical failure without ties to seepage rate; here, we couple these two analyses to provide a practical aspect of this approach. As revealed by cement evaluation logs, the quality of the cement behind the casing varies and may include flaws in the form of channels or pockets of mud residuals. A novel methodology, initiated with laboratory-scale cement bonding properties using the push-out test, is introduced to estimate the cohesive properties of the cement interface, considering mud removal and mud residuals in the rock. Then, the measured cohesive properties are applied to a field-scale numerical model with an embedded cohesive layer between cement and formation to evaluate the susceptibility of the wellbore to develop cement debonding. The excessive fluid pressure at the casing shoe is assumed to be the source for the fracture initiation. The proposed numerical model has been tested against actual sustained casing pressure (SCP) field tests for validation purposes. This model may estimate the geometry of leakage pathways and predict leakage flowrate within acceptable ranges. The effect of several key factors in the development of SCP due to the cement debonding is investigated. The results show that the early stage of SCP buildup is controlled by the cohesive properties of the cement interfaces (i.e., cement properties), but the cohesive properties have minor effects on the stabilized pressure. The method proposed herein presents a method to evaluate the cement bond quantitatively to be further integrated into cement design.
Peak Blood Lactate Concentration and Its Arrival Time Following Different Track Running Events in Under-20 Male Track Athletes
Authors: Gupta Subir , Stanula Arkadiusz , Goswami Asis
Published: April 2021

Purpose: To determine (1) the time of arrival of peak blood lactate concentration ([BLa]peak) followed by various track events and (2) significant correlation, if any, between average velocity and [BLa]peak in these events. Methods: In 58 under-20 male track athletes, heart rate was recorded continuously and blood lactate concentration was determined at various intervals following 100-m (n = 9), 200-m (n = 8), 400-m (flat) (n = 9), 400-m hurdles (n = 8), 800-m (n = 9), 1500-m (n = 8), 3000-m steeplechase (n = 7), and 5000-m (n = 10) runs. Results: The [BLa]peak, in mmol/L, was recorded highest following the 400-m run (18.27 [3.65]) followed by 400-m hurdles (16.25 [3.14]), 800-m (15.53 [3.25]), 1500-m (14.71 [3.00]), 200-m (14.42 [3.40]), 3000-m steeplechase (11.87 [1.48]), 100-m (11.05 [2.36]), and 5000-m runs (8.65 [1.60]). The average velocity of only the 400-m run was found to be significantly correlated (r = .877, p < 0.05) with [BLa]peak. The arrival time of [BLa]peak following 100-m, 200-m, 400-m, 400-m hurdles, 800-m, 1500-m, 3000-m steeplechase, and 5000-m runs was 4.44 (0.83), 4.13 (0.93), 4.22 (0.63), 3.75 (0.83), 3.34 (1.20), 2.06 (1.21), 1.71 (1.44), and 1.06 (1.04) minutes, respectively, of the recovery period. Conclusion: In under-20 runners, (1) [BLa]peak is highest after the 400-m run, (2) the time of appearance of [BLa]peak varies from one event to another but arrives later after sprint events than longer distances, and (3) the 400-m (flat) run is the only event wherein the performance is significantly correlated with the [BLa]peak.
Aerobic and Anaerobic Power Distribution During Cross-Country Mountain Bike Racing
Authors: Prinz Bernhard , Simon Dieter , Tschan Harald , Nimmerichter Alfred
Published: April 2021

Purpose: To determine aerobic and anaerobic demands of mountain bike cross-country racing. Methods: Twelve elite cyclists (7 males;  = 73.8 [2.6] mL·min-1·kg−1, maximal aerobic power [MAP] = 370 [26] W, 5.7 [0.4] W·kg−1, and 5 females;  = 67.3 [2.9] mL·min−1·kg−1, MAP = 261 [17] W, 5.0 [0.1] W·kg−1) participated over 4 seasons at several (119) international and national races and performed laboratory tests regularly to assess their aerobic and anaerobic performance. Power output, heart rate, and cadence were recorded throughout the races. Results: The mean race time was 79 (12) minutes performed at a mean power output of 3.8 (0.4) W·kg−1; 70% (7%) MAP (3.9 [0.4] W·kg−1 and 3.6 [0.4] W·kg−1 for males and females, respectively) with a cadence of 64 (5) rev·min−1 (including nonpedaling periods). Time spent in intensity zones 1 to 4 (below MAP) were 28% (4%), 18% (8%), 12% (2%), and 13% (3%), respectively; 30% (9%) was spent in zone 5 (above MAP). The number of efforts above MAP was 334 (84), which had a mean duration of 4.3 (1.1) seconds, separated by 10.9 (3) seconds with a mean power output of 7.3 (0.6) W·kg−1 (135% [9%] MAP). Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of the anaerobic energy system and the interaction between anaerobic and aerobic energy systems. Therefore, the ability to perform numerous efforts above MAP and a high aerobic capacity are essential to be competitive in mountain bike cross-country.
mSphere of Influence: Role of IRGM1 in Disease Control
Authors: Naik Sumanta Kumar
Published: April 2021

Sumanta K. Naik works in the tuberculosis field, with a specific interest in the host immune response to
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
infection. In this mSphere of Influence article, he reflects on how the paper “IRGM1 links mitochondrial quality control to autoimmunity” by Prashant Rai et al. (Nat Immunol, 22:312–321, 2021,
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41590-020-00859-0
) impacted his research by revealing new roles for Irgm1 in immune responses.
The role of Namibia Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme in strengthening the public health workforce in Namibia, 2012–2019
Authors: Nyarko Kofi Mensah , Miller Leigh Ann , Baughman Andrew L , Katjiuanjo Puumue , Evering-Watley Michele , Antara Simon , Angula Penehafo , Mitonga Honore K , Prybylski Dimitri , Dziuban Eric J , Ndevaetela Emmy-Else
Published: April 2021

Namibia faces a critical shortage of skilled public health workers to perform emergency response operations, preparedness activities and real-time surveillance. The Namibia Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (NamFELTP) increases the number of skilled public health professionals and strengthens the public health system in Namibia. We describe the NamFELTP during its first 7 years, assess its impact on the public health workforce and provide recommendations to further strengthen the workforce. We reviewed disease outbreak investigations and response reports, field projects and epidemiological investigations conducted during 2012–2019. The data were analysed using descriptive methods such as frequencies and rates. Maps representing the geographical distribution of NamFELTP workforce were produced using QGIS software V.3.2. There were no formally trained field epidemiologists working in Namibia before the NamFELTP. In its 7 years of operation, the programme graduated 189 field epidemiologists, of which 28 have completed the Advanced FELTP. The graduates increased epidemiological capacity for surveillance and response in Namibia at the national and provincial levels, and enhanced epidemiologist-led outbreak responses on 35 occasions, including responses to outbreaks of human and zoonotic diseases. Trainees analysed data from 51 surveillance systems and completed 31 epidemiological studies. The NamFELTP improved outcomes in the Namibia’s public health systems; including functional and robust public health surveillance systems that timely and effectively respond to public health emergencies. However, the current epidemiological capacity is insufficient and there is a need to continue training and mentorship to fill key leadership and strategic roles in the public health system.