bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Support and Tinnitus Distress: The Importance of Developing Positive Psychological Qualities in Patients with Chronic Tinnitus
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Qi Min , Zeng Xiangli , Cai Weiwei , Yin Gendi , Zhang Shuqi , Cen Jintian , Gu Jing , Yuan Lianxiong , Fang Bixing , Lu Aitao , Li Zhicheng
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The role of social support in the relief of tinnitus distress and related mechanisms remains unclear. This study aimed to confirm a hypothesis that the influence of social support on tinnitus distress is mediated by resilience and self-esteem. Methods: The Social Support Rating Scale, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Positive Version of Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory were used to assess 296 patients who experience chronic subjective tinnitus. The collected data were subjected to correlational analysis, mediating effect testing, and structural equation model analysis using R 3.3.1 with the mediate and lavaan packages. Results: The result showed that social support had significant positive correlations with resilience and self-esteem, while resilience and self-esteem had significant negative correlations with tinnitus distress. Furthermore, social support indirectly affected tinnitus distress through the full mediating effects of resilience and self-esteem and could indirectly affect resilience through the partial mediating effects of self-esteem. Conclusion: These results suggested that the key to social support for alleviating tinnitus distress lies in the development of patients’ resilience and self-esteem. Promoting the development of positive psychological quality of tinnitus patients and improving their perception of social support may become the new approaches of clinical management of tinnitus.
Respiratory Distress Syndrome Associated with Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Authors: Noure Lamya , Küçük Kirley , Simeni Njonnou Sylvain Raoul , Del Marmol Véronique , White Jonathan M. , Bondue Benjamin
Published: February 2021

Erythrodermic psoriasis is an uncommon and severe variant of psoriasis which may be associated with rare and severe complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome. Early recognition of this life-threatening condition can allow prompt appropriate treatment. We report the case of a 69-year-old man with a long history of psoriasis who developed acute respiratory distress during a disease flare-up. There was no relevant past history (except for mild emphysema), known allergy, or recent treatment. Chest X-ray revealed new bilateral infiltrates, confirmed at chest computed tomography scan. Repeated cultures on aspirate of the bronchoalveolar lavage remained negative for viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Cardiac ultrasound was normal and high-dose corticosteroid therapy was initiated. Within a few days his clinical and radiological status improved significantly.
Primary Cutaneous Cryptococcosis due to Cryptococcus neoformans in an Immunocompetent Host Treated with Itraconazole and Drainage: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gaviria Morales Elizabeth , Guidi Marco , Peterka Tomas , Rabufetti Andrea , Blum Roland , Mainetti Carlo
Published: February 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic germ, usually causing infections in immunocompromised patients. The main sources of infection with C. neoformans are excrement from birds, decomposing wood, fruit, and vegetables. Primary cutaneous cryptococcosis (PCC) is a clinical entity, differing from secondary cutaneous cryptococcosis and systematic infection. We report the case of an immunocompetent 60-year-old woman with PCC due to C. neoformans in her right thumb. She reported an accidental injury caused by a rose thorn while she was gardening. Clinical examination showed the presence of an erythematous ulcerated nodule with elevated borders, suppuration, and central necrosis. Skin histology examination showed cutaneous and subcutaneous fibrinoid necrosis with bleeding, abscess, neutrophil-rich cellular infiltration, and the presence of PAS-, Grocott- and mucin-positive spores. The mycological culture showed milky and creamy colonies of C. neoformans after 3 days. As there was no previous history of pulmonary cryptococcosis, we diagnosed PPC. We treated the patient surgically with accurate debridement of nonvital tissues in the right thumb. In addition, we started itraconazole treatment 100 mg twice daily for 6 months, which led to rapid clinical improvement without relapse. PCC is a rare infection that can present with quite unspecific clinical pictures including acneiform lesions, purpura, vesicles, nodules, abscesses, ulcers, granulomas, pustules, draining sinuses, and cellulitis. Prolonged systemic antifungal therapy is necessary in order to get a healing result without relapse. We summarize all the cases of PCC in immunocompetent patients published so far in the literature.
Dramatic Deep and Durable Remission of Acute Fulminant Ulcerative Colitis Achieved with Cyclosporine in a Patient Who Failed the Induction Intravenous Phase of Cyclosporine
Authors: Philippou Alicia , Rizvi Anam , Steinlauf Adam
Published: February 2021

Medical rescue therapy for patients with severe steroid-refractory ulcerative colitis (UC) consists of intravenous (IV) cyclosporine or infliximab and remains limited. Cyclosporine is used by fewer medical facilities due to comfort and need for close drug level monitoring, despite evidence that it can have dramatic benefits. In many tertiary centers it is accepted that after 3–7 days of treatment with IV cyclosporine without response, a patient will not respond to the therapy, and other modalities, namely surgery, should be considered. We present the case of a 36-year-old man with acute severe UC refractory to steroids and multiple biologics, who “failed” IV cyclosporine for 2 weeks, much longer than the usually accepted induction phase, and achieved remission with continuation of oral cyclosporine. This case demonstrates the possibility that continued therapy with cyclosporine for a longer duration than the currently accepted timeline can lead to remission and avoidance of colectomy in properly selected and monitored patients.
Instructional Ribbing as a Cultural Practice for Guiding Children
Authors: Silva Katie G. , Rogoff Barbara
Published: February 2021

Valued cultural practices of marginalized communities are often critiqued by dominant cultural communities. In this study, US Mexican-heritage mothers who had experience in Indigenous ways (and limited schooling and parenting classes) espoused instructional ribbing –a cultural practice involving indirectly guiding children’s behavior through mock threats or lighthearted teasing to help them see how their misbehavior impacts others – as a positive, familiar practice that encourages active learning. However, European American mothers were very critical. Indications of cultural change came from US Mexican-heritage mothers with experience in two cultural systems – Western schooling/parenting classes and Indigenous ways. Half viewed instructional ribbing positively, and half were negative and often referred to what they learned in parenting classes as a source of their change from prior generations. The value of instructional ribbing in some communities may be undermined by experience in dominant cultural systems where its familial and communal value and supports are not understood.
Argon Plasma Coagulation: Elucidation of the Mechanism of Gas Embolism
Authors: Folch Erik E. , Oberg Catherine L. , Mehta Atul C. , Majid Adnan , Keyes Colleen , Fernandez-Bussy Sebastian
Published: February 2021

Background: Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is a tool used in the management of tracheobronchial obstruction or bleeding. Complications include gas embolism which can cause devastating effects including hemodynamic instability, cardiac arrest, and stroke. Multiple theories as to how gas embolism occurs with APC have been postulated; however, none have identified the exact mechanism. Objectives: To identify the mechanism by which APC causes gas embolism in the tracheobronchial tree. Methods: Using an explanted porcine tracheobronchial tree with lung parenchyma, the APC catheter was applied through noncontact and direct contact to the endobronchial airway mucosa via flexible bronchoscopy. This was done at multiple gas flow settings and pulse durations. Visual changes in the mucosa were photographed, videoed, and described. Results: Gross evidence of submucosal gas transfer occurred when the APC catheter was in direct contact with the mucosa at all gas flow settings in all applications, despite using shorter pulse durations. Whenever the catheter was not in contact with the mucosa, there was no transfer of gas at any gas flow setting or pulse duration. Conclusions: Direct mucosal contact with the APC probe leads to submucosal gas deposition and is a likely mechanism for gas entry into the intravascular space. In reported cases of APC-associated gas embolism, presence of a vascularized endobronchial tumor may have increased the risk of gas tracking into the intravascular space. Care should be taken when applying APC during brisk bleeding or limited vision, as inadvertent mucosal contact may occur and could increase the risk of gas embolism.
Managing the Journey of Patients under Chemotherapy in a Pandemic Era: A Nursing Perspective
Authors: Gualandi Raffaella , De Benedictis Anna , De Marinis Maria Grazia , Tartaglini Daniela
Published: February 2021

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, cancer patients’ care needs to be reconsidered by integrating the patient’s clinical pathway with the hospital patient journey and the family context in a safe and patient-centered way. So far, no systematic reports are available regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care. This work gives a first overview of patients’ care needs undergoing chemotherapy treatment from a nursing perspective.
Health Preference Measures in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Undergoing Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy: Data from a Randomized Trial
Authors: Huber Fabienne L. , Furian Michael , Kohler Malcolm , Latshang Tsogyal D. , Nussbaumer-Ochsner Yvonne , Turk Alexander , Schoch Otto D. , Laube Irene , Thurnheer Robert , Bloch Konrad E.
Published: February 2021

Background: In patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), the preference-based, health-related quality of life in terms of utility has not been extensively studied. Objective: To address this point, we compared the performance of different instruments assessing utility in patients with OSAS undergoing continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Materials and Methods: Data of 208 patients with OSAS (28 women, mean ± SE age 54.4 ± 0.7 years, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) 51.9 ± 1.8/h, Epworth sleepiness score 13.4 ± 0.2) participating in a randomized trial of different CPAP modalities over 2 years were analyzed. Evaluations included sleep studies, Epworth sleepiness scale, and several utility instruments that measure subjective health preference on a scale ranging from 1 (most preferred and perfect health) to 0 (least preferred and very poor health). Results: After 2 years of CPAP therapy, the mean ± SE AHI was 6.7 ± 1.5/h and Epworth score 7.9 ± 0.4, both p < 0.001 versus baseline. Baseline utilities and changes (95% confidence interval) after 2 years of CPAP therapy were EuroQol 5-dimensions 0.79 ± 0.01, 0.02 (0.00–0.05, p = 0.064); short-form 6-dimension medical outcome questionnaire 0.72 ± 0.01, 0.06 (0.04–0.08, p < 0.001); Euro-thermometer visual analog scale 0.70 ± 0.01, 0.09 (0.07–0.12, p < 0.001); time trade-off 0.82 ± 0.01, 0.03 (0.01–0.06, p = 0.002); and standard gamble 0.82 ± 0.01, −0.01 (−0.03 to 0.02, p = 0.712). Conclusion: The short-form 6-dimensions questionnaire, the Euro-thermometer, and the time trade-off instruments reflected the major clinical improvements in OSAS, while the EuroQoL 5-dimensions and standard gamble tests were not sensitive to CPAP effects. These results indicate that the evaluation of utility of a treatment for OSAS depends critically on the instrument used, which is important from an individual and societal perspective.
Rapid On-Site Cytologic Evaluation: A Feasibility Study Using Ancillary Interventional Pulmonary Personnel
Authors: Mathew Roshen , Meena Nikhil , Roy Winnie Elma , Chen Chien , Macchiraella Maggie , Bartter Thaddeus
Published: February 2021

Background: Ancillary health professionals helping in a procedural service is a common practice everywhere. Objectives: This was a proof-of-concept study to assess feasibility of using ancillary personnel for rapid on-site cytologic evaluation (ROSE) at interventional pulmonary procedures. Methods: After a training interval, a respiratory therapist (RT) performed ROSE on consecutive interventional pulmonary specimens. Sample sites included lymph nodes, lung, liver, and the left adrenal gland. RT findings were subsequently correlated with blinded cytopathology-performed ROSE and with final histopathology results, with primary foci of adequacy and the presence or absence of malignancy. Results: Seventy consecutive cases involved 163 separate sites for ROSE analysis. Adequacy: There was a high level of concordance between RT-performed ROSE (RT-ROSE) and cytopathology ROSE (CYTO-ROSE). They agreed upon the adequacy of 159 specimens. The Cohen’s κ coefficient ± asymptotic standard error (ASE) was 0.74 ± 0.175, with p < 0.0001. Malignancy: RT-ROSE concurred highly with CYTO-ROSE, with agreement on 150 (92%) of the 163 specimens. Cohen’s κ coefficient ± ASE was 0.83 ± 0.045, with p < 0.0001. When the comparison was for malignancy by case rather than individual site, Cohen’s κ coefficient ± ASE was 0.68 ± 0.08, with p < 0.0001. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that ancillary personnel supporting an interventional pulmonary service can be trained to perform initial ROSE. Cytopathology can be called after sampling and staining have produced adequate samples. This setup streamlines ROSE evaluation with regard to time and cost.
Progredienzangst entlang der Überlebensspanne: Ergebnisse einer Befragung erwachsener Langzeit-Krebsüberlebender
Authors: Fugmann Dominik , Karger André
Published: February 2021

Objective: Our study analysed fear of cancer recurrence (FoR) in long-term cancer survivors in relation to medical variables, depression, anxiety, and quality of life. Methods: We present data obtained from 1,002 cancer survivors (53% male, mean age = 68 years, 26% prostate cancer, 22% breast cancer) across all cancer types 5 (N = 660) and 10 (N = 342) years after diagnosis, who were recruited via a large Clinical Cancer Registry in Germany in a cross-sectional study. FoR, depression, and anxiety were measured using validated self-report questionnaires (12-item short version of the Fear of Progression Questionnaire [FoP-Q-SF], Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9[, and General Anxiety Disorder-7 [GAD-7]). Hierarchical regression models were carried out with FoR as dependent variable and time since diagnosis as control variable. Results: We found high FoR-values in 17% of the cancer survivors (FoP-Q-SF total score>33). FoR was higher in the 5-year cohort (P = .028, d = 0.153). Cancer survivors were most worried about the future of the family; they report being nervous prior to doctor’s appointment and being afraid of relying on strangers help. Higher FoR was related to female gender (Beta = .149, P<.001), younger age (Beta = -.103, P<.001), low social (Beta = -.129, P<.001) and emotional functioning (Beta = -.269, P<.001), received hormone therapy (P = .025, d = 0.056), and high anxiety levels (Beta = .227, P<.001). Conclusions: Even though FoR declines slightly over time, it is still a common mental health problem for long-term survivors even 10 years after cancer diagnosis. Since FoR is associated with reduced emotional and social quality of life, patients who are at greater risk of experiencing FoR must be identified and supported. Particularly at risk are younger women who received hormone therapy.
The Role of the Outer Lamellar Macular Hole in the Surgical Management of Myopic Traction Maculopathy
Authors: Palmieri Michele , Frisina Rino , Finzi Alessandro , Besozzi Gianluca , Parolini Barbara
Published: February 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the anatomical and functional surgical outcomes of eyes affected by myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) with and without an outer lamellar macular hole (O-LMH). Methods: Forty-eight eyes affected by MTM were included: a study group of 24 eyes with an O-LMH and a control group of 24 eyes without an O-LMH. All patients underwent spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and were staged according to the MTM staging system. The surgical techniques applied were pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), macular buckle (MB), or combined surgery. The follow-up visit was 12 months after the latest intervention. Results: Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved significantly in both groups after surgery (p < 0.05). A successful surgical result was obtained in both groups at the final follow-up. In the study group, 3 eyes underwent PPV, 14 eyes underwent MB, and 7 underwent a combined surgery. Six patients developed an iatrogenic full-thickness macular hole (FTMH). In the control group, 5 eyes underwent PPV, 16 underwent MB, and 3 had combined surgery. Four patients developed a FTMH. In both groups, all the eyes with an iatrogenic FTMH received PPV as first surgery (alone or combined). A topographical correspondence between the interruption of the ellipsoid zone (EZ) and the backscattering phenomenon was found on OCT. Conclusion: The O-LMH is an OCT sign that may occur in eyes affected by MTM. Its presence is correlated with a higher risk of developing an iatrogenic FTMH after PPV (alone or combined) probably due to the thinner residual retinal tissue. Postoperative BCVA is not limited in eyes with an O-LMH and this may be explained by the restoration of the EZ after surgery.
Ultrasound Cycloplasty in Chinese Glaucoma Patients: Results of a 6-Month Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Luo Qin , Xue Wenwen , Wang Yulan , Chen Bin , Wang Shuangshuang , Dong Yiping , Ru Yan , Ge Ling
Published: February 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term efficacy and safety of ultrasound cycloplasty (UCP) procedure in Chinese glaucoma patients. Methods: As a single-center, prospective, noncomparative study, 23 eyes of 23 patients suffering from glaucoma with uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥21 mm Hg underwent a multidose UCP treatment with the activations of 6, 8, or10 sectors. Types of glaucoma include primary open-angle glaucoma (7/23), primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) (9/23), and secondary glaucoma (SG) (7/23). A complete ophthalmic examination including intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements was performed before UCP procedure and at 1 day, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after the procedure. An IOP reduction of ≥20% and IOP >5 mm Hg without increasing hypotensive medication at the follow-up visit was defined as therapeutic success. The postoperative complications were also recorded and compared to baseline for safety evaluation. Results: The mean baseline IOP of 23 treated eyes was 37.2 ± 12.1 mm Hg. The IOP reduction after UCP procedure was 23, 49, 33, and 34% at 1 day, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months, respectively. Thus, the corresponding overall therapeutic success rates reached 61% (14/23), 83% (19/23), 65% (15/23), and 61% (14/23), respectively. Baseline IOPs of 8- and 10-sector groups (37.0 ± 9.9 mm Hg and 50.1 ± 12.2 mm Hg) were significantly higher than that of 6 sector groups (30.1 ± 8.2 mm Hg). Therapeutic success rates of 6-, 8-, and 10-sector groups reached 44% (4/9), 56% (5/9), and 100% (5/5), respectively. There were the highest percentage of IOP reduction (50 and 41%) and therapeutic success rate (6/7; 86% and 7/9; 78%) in the SG group and PACG group, respectively. In addition, preoperative ocular pain symptoms of 4 patients were all disappeared within 1 week after UCP. No serious intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. Conclusion: UCP procedure is an effective and well-tolerated treatment to reduce IOP in Chinese glaucoma patients, which offered a novel alternative for glaucoma treatment.
Redescription of the fish-parasitic isopod Cymothoa ianuarii Schioedte & Meinert, 1884 and further records of C. excisa Perty, 1833 and C. oestrum (Linnaeus, 1758) (Isopoda: Cymothoida: Cymothoidae) from Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Felipe Bezerra , Huber Augusto Frederico , Araujo Paula Beatriz
Published: February 2021

Cymothoa ianuarii Schioedte & Meinert, 1884 is rediscovered almost 136 years after its original description and redescribed from specimens collected in the state of São Paulo. This species is mainly characterized by adult females with cephalon with conspicuous eyes and not deeply immersed in pereonite 1, pereonites 5-6 much wider than 4, pleotelson twice as wide as long and pleopods 1-5 decreasing in size; Cymothoa excisa Perty, 1833 and C. oestrum (Linnaeus, 1758) are recorded from the state of Bahia. Illustrations and an updated distribution map for these species in Brazil are provided.
Illustrated catalogue of type specimens of Megalopodidae (Coleoptera) deposited at the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo
Authors: Biffi Gabriel , Defraia Marcia Marise , Campaner Carlos
Published: February 2021

The Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo (MZUSP) houses an important Megalopodidae collection representing 144 species, especially from Brazil and the Neotropical fauna. The type specimens of some species have never been accessed since their original descriptions, and are thus unknown to a major part of the Megalopodidae researchers. Presented here is an illustrated catalogue of the megalopodid type specimens of 32 species deposited at MZUSP, featuring photos of habitus and labels, and complete label data of all the specimens, which originally belonged to Jacintho Guérin’s personal collection. Conflicting and inconsistent data provided in the literature and in the specimens’ labels are addressed. Taxa originally proposed as species varieties are here reaffirmed as valid, with subspecific rank. Agathomerus varians Monrós, 1945 and Plesioagathomerus vittatus Monrós, 1945, originally described as junior synonyms, are considered unavailable names. The subspecific epithet ngriapex is emended into Agathomerus bifasciatus nigrapex Guérin, 1949. An overview of the MZUSP Megalopodidae collection is presented with a history of the arrival of Guérin’s specimens.
A comunicação através das cunhagens: a monumentalização da religiosidade
Authors: Carminati Luis Henrique
Published: February 2021

O presente trabalho tem como principal objetivo abordar como os elementos religiosos eram apresentados nas cunhagens da República romana durante o século I a.C. Para tal, utilizarei uma pequena seleção, composta por oito tipos monetários batidos no período. A religião na Antiguidade não era desassociada de outros estratos de vivência; ela se misturava no campo de experiência e expectativas dos sujeitos. As distintas divindades que compunham o panteão romano e suas qualidades divinas, como libertas e pietas, eram mobilizadas na elaboração dos repertórios imagéticos dos tipos monetários. Consequentemente, o uso destes elementos religiosos visava a monumentalização de certas noções e identidades.
Propaganda e resistência no Egito Romano: a estela de Cornélio Galo
Authors: Vasques Márcia Severina
Published: February 2021

O Egito romano era uma sociedade múltipla e heterogênea, que pode ser analisada tanto do ponto de vista de elementos de continuidade com uma tradição que remonta ao período faraônico quanto com transformações decorrentes das séries de conquistas estrangeiras que o país sofreu. Refletindo sobre a ideologia real no Egito Romano, temos por objetivo abordá-la considerando dois enfoques diversos: seu valor enquanto elemento de propaganda política pelos governantes romanos e o seu uso como forma de resistência egípcia ao domínio estrangeiro. Um elemento essencial à nossa interpretação é a estela de Cornélio Galo, primeiro prefeito de Alexandria e do Egito.
De Estados Unidos, Reino Unido e Islândia ao Brasil: Um estudo tradutológico da Prosa éddica ao português
Authors: Trindade Thais Gomes
Published: February 2021

A partir de análises tradutológicas de cinco traduções à luz da teoria desconstrutivista, esse trabalho visa preencher a lacuna informativa quanto à chegada da Edda em prosa de Snorri às línguas lusófonas, provendo o público acadêmico ou não de informações detalhadas. O público pode ser provido de informações estilísticas e de conteúdo, enquanto ainda pretende-se apresentar possíveis novos mares à pesquisa ou produção acadêmica sobre o tema.
Conexões sensíveis: seguindo a trilha etnobiográfica de um músico chaquenho
Authors: Domínguez María Eugenia
Published: February 2021

O texto trata da realização do vídeo etnobiográfico Pascual Toro, flautero. Refiro, em primeiro lugar, a proposta teórico-metodológica do cineasta e antropólogo argentino Jorge Prelorán (1933-2009) que inspirou o trabalho. Num segundo momento, descrevo as características do repertório e do gênero executado pelo protagonista do filme no ritual arete guasu para explicitar as razões que guiaram a organização do projeto de edição. Por sua vez, discorre-se sobre o valor da individualidade no âmbito da música de flautas do arete guasu argumentando que o método etnobiográfico é um caminho fecundo para compreender as conexões que sustentam as habilidades para ser um bom instrumentista nesse universo.
Desenhar com uma câmera? Filme etnográfico e antropologia transformadora
Authors: Grimshaw Anna , Ravetz Amanda
Published: February 2021

O desenho tem emergido como um foco recente de atenção antropológica. Escritores como Ingold e Taussig defenderam sua importância como um tipo especial de prática de conhecimento, ligando-o a uma reimaginação mais ampla do próprio projeto antropológico. Em respaldo a sua abordagem, está uma oposição entre o lápis e a câmera, entre “fazer” e “tirar”, entre modos de inquirição restritiva e produtiva. Este artigo desafia tal suposição, argumentando que tais elementos no desenho e na realização de filmes existem em uma relação dialética, em vez de polarizada. Destacam-se insights particulares desdobrados de um diálogo entre antropologias escritas e baseadas em filmes, relacionando-os a debates amplos no interior da disciplina – por exemplo, debates sobre modos de conhecer, sobre a prática qualificada [skilled practice], a improvisação e a imaginação, e a antropologia como um tipo de prática de fazer imagens.
Tradução do texto "Drawing with a camera? Ethnographic film and transformative anthropology", de Anna Grimshaw e Amanda Ravetz, feita por Tatiana Lotierzo e Luís Felipe Kojima Hirano.
Assessment of threat status of the holly fern Cyrtomium micropterum (Kunze) Ching (Polypodiopsida: Dryopteridaceae) in India using IUCN Regional guidelines
Authors: Bagathsingh C. , Benniamin A.
Published: February 2021

During the field survey in central Western Ghats of India, an interesting dryopteridoid fern species was collected from Nellikathrupodu Range of Billigiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve of Karnataka.  After a critical study of literature, the specimen was identified as Cyrtomium micropterum (Kunze) Ching.  In India, this species is known only from its type locality Nilgiri and Palani hills of Tamil Nadu.  The present collection from the BRT Tiger Reserve shows its extended distribution and forms the first report for the state of Karnataka.  The present paper deals with the assessment and conservation status of Cyrtomium micropterum (Kunze) Ching in India in accordance with IUCN guidelines for the application of Red List Criteria at regional and national Levels, 2012, Version 4.0.  Detailed descriptions, photographs, microphotographs are provided for easy identification of this species.
A note on the current distribution of reedtail damselfly Protosticta rufostigma Kimmins, 1958 (Odonata: Zygoptera: Platystictidae) from Western Ghats, and its addition to the odonate checklist of Kerala
Authors: Sadasivan Kalesh , Palot Muhamed Jafer
Published: February 2021

The genus  Protosticta (Odonata, Zygoptera, Platystictidae) is represented by nine species in the Western Ghats of peninsular India, of which seven are reported for the state of Kerala.  Our recent records of Protosticta rufostigma Kimmins, 1958 from the Western Ghats of Kerala State is discussed, and despite a thorough literature search no collection records or photographs of the species has been found after the original description from Tamil Nadu.  The species is, thus, added to the checklist of odonates of Kerala State. The description of the live insect, its ecology, status and distribution is discussed.
Risk-Based Approach for the Prediction and Prevention of Heart Failure
Authors: Sinha Arjun , Gupta Deepak K. , Yancy Clyde W. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Rasmussen-Torvik Laura J. , McNally Elizabeth M. , Greenland Philip , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Khan Sadiya S.
Published: February 2021

Targeted prevention of heart failure (HF) remains a critical need given the high prevalence of HF morbidity and mortality. Similar to risk-based prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, optimal HF prevention strategies should include quantification of risk in the individual patient. In this review, we discuss incorporation of a quantitative risk-based approach into the existing HF staging landscape and the clinical opportunity that exists to translate available data on risk estimation to help guide personalized decision making. We first summarize the recent development of key HF risk prediction tools that can be applied broadly at a population level to estimate risk of incident HF. Next, we provide an in-depth description of the clinical utility of biomarkers to personalize risk estimation in select patients at the highest risk of developing HF. We also discuss integration of genomics-enhanced approaches (eg,
Titin [TTN]
) and other risk-enhancing features to reclassify risk with a precision medicine approach to HF prevention. Although sequential testing is very likely to identify low and high-risk individuals with excellent accuracy, whether or not interventions based on these risk models prevent HF in clinical practice requires prompt attention including randomized placebo-controlled trials of candidate therapies in risk-enriched populations. We conclude with a summary of unanswered questions and gaps in evidence that must be addressed to move the field of HF risk assessment forward.
Incidence, Predictors, and Mortality in Patients With Liver Cancer After Fontan Operation
Authors: Ohuchi Hideo , Hayama Yohsuke , Nakajima Kimiko , Kurosaki Kenichi , Shiraishi Isao , Nakai Michikazu
Published: February 2021

Background

Liver cancer (LC) is a serious late complication after the Fontan operation. However, the incidence, predictors, and prognosis remain unknown. The purpose of our study was to determine these clinical characteristics.

Methods and Results

We assessed liver function in 339 consecutive patients who had undergone the Fontan procedure from 2005 to 2019. LC was histologically diagnosed in 10 patients after a median period of 2.9 years (range: 0.3–13.8; median age: 29.9 years [range: 14.4–41.5 years]; overall median post–Fontan procedure follow‐up: 25.6 years [range: 13–32.1 years]), and the annual incidence was 0.89%. Over the entire post‐Fontan follow‐up period, the annual incidences of new‐onset LC in the second, third, and fourth decades were 0.14%, 0.43%, and 8.83%, respectively. The patients with LC had longer follow‐up periods, higher levels of AFP (α‐fetoprotein), and higher values of liver fibrosis indices (
P
<0.01–0.0001). Moreover, all indices were predictive of new‐onset LC (
P
<0.01–0.0001). The LC treatments were surgical resection (n=3), transarterial chemoembolization (n=3), radiofrequency ablation (n=2), and hospice care (n=2). During a median follow‐up of 9.4 months, 4 patients died; the survival rate at 1 year was 60%, and it was better among asymptomatic patients (
P
<0.01).

Conclusions

The LC incidence rapidly increased ≥30 years after the Fontan procedure, and liver fibrosis indices and AFP were predictive of new‐onset LC. These LC‐predictive markers should be monitored closely and mandatorily for early LC detection and better prognosis.
Effect of Osteoporotic Condition on Ventriculomegaly and Shunt-Dependent Hydrocephalus After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Won Yu Deok , Kim Jae Min , Cheong Jin Hwan , Ryu Je Il , Yi Hyeong-Joong , Han Myung-Hoon
Published: February 2021

Background and Purpose:

Hydrocephalus is a common complication in aneurysmal rupture subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). As both the bone and arachnoid trabeculae are composed of type 1 collagen, we identified the possible relationship between bone mineral density and ventriculomegaly and shunt-dependent hydrocephalus (SDHC) development after aneurysmal rupture SAH in younger patients.

Methods:

We measured frontal skull Hounsfield unit (HU) values on brain computed tomography upon admission, and mean frontal skull HU values were used instead of T-score value. Hazard ratios were calculated using Cox regression analysis to identify whether osteoporotic condition is an independent predictor for ventriculomegaly and SDHC after surgical clipping for SAH in younger patients.

Results:

Altogether, 412 patients (≤65 years) who underwent surgical clipping for primary spontaneous SAH from a ruptured aneurysm were enrolled in this 11-year analysis in 2 hospitals. We observed that the first tertile group of skull HU was an independent predictor of SDHC after SAH compared with the third tertile of skull HU values (hazard ratio, 2.55 [95% CI, 1.25–5.20];
P
=0.010). There were no significant interactions between age and skull HU with respect to ventriculomegaly and SDHC in younger patients.

Conclusions:

Our study suggests a relationship between possible osteoporotic conditions and ventriculomegaly and SDHC development after SAH in younger patients. Our findings may be useful in predicting hydrocephalus in young SAH patients using a convenient method of measuring skull HU value on brain computed tomography upon admission.
Circulating Vimentin Is Associated With Future Incidence of Stroke in a Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Xiao Jun , Chen Liangwan , Melander Olle , Orho-Melander Marju , Nilsson Jan , Borné Yan , Engström Gunnar
Published: February 2021

Background and Purpose:

VIM (vimentin) is a cytoskeletal intermediate filament protein, which has been linked to atherosclerosis and thrombosis; both are important causes of stroke. We examined the relationship between circulating VIM and incidence of stroke, and if carotid plaque could modify the association in a prospective population-based cohort.

Methods:

This prospective study was based on the Malmö Diet and Cancer Cohort. A total of 4688 participants (39.7% men; mean age, 57.6 years) were examined and blood samples were collected between 1991 and 1994. Incidence of stroke was followed up to 2018. Cox’ proportional hazards regression was used to assess the relationship between VIM and stroke.

Results:

During a mean follow-up of 22.0 years, a total of 528 subjects were diagnosed with stroke, among which 434 were ischemic stroke. Participants in the highest quartile (vs 1
st
quartile) had 1.34× higher risk of total stroke (95% CI, 1.03–1.74) and 1.47× higher of ischemic stroke (95% CI, 1.10–1.98) after adjustment for potential confounders. A significant interaction was found between carotid plaque and VIM with respect to incidence of both total stroke and ischemic stroke (
P
=0.041 and 0.011, respectively). After stratifying by carotid plaque, high VIM had stronger association with stroke in participants with carotid plaque, especially for the risk of ischemic stroke (adjusted hazard ratio,1.66 [95% CI, 1.23–2.25] for quartile 4 versus quartile 1 to 3).

Conclusions:

VIM is positively associated with the incidence of stroke, especially in individuals with carotid plaque. Further studies are needed to confirm the observed associations.
EU-Citizen.Science: A Platform for Mainstreaming Citizen Science and Open Science in Europe
Authors: Wagenknecht Katherin , Woods Tim , Sanz Francisco García , Gold Margaret , Bowser Anne , Rüfenacht Simone , Ceccaroni Luigi , Piera Jaume
Published: February 2021

Citizen Science (CS) is a prominent field of application for Open Science (OS), and the two have strong synergies, such as: advocating for the data and metadata generated through science to be made publicly available [ 1 ]; supporting more equitable collaboration between different types of scientists and citizens; and facilitating knowledge transfer to a wider range of audiences [ 2 ]. While primarily targeted at CS, the EU-Citizen. Science platform can also support OS. One of its key functions is to act as a knowledge hub to aggregate, disseminate and promote experience and know-how; for example, by profiling CS projects and collecting tools, resources and training materials relevant to both fields. To do this, the platform has developed an information architecture that incorporates the public participation in scientific research (PPSR)—Common Conceptual Model ① . This model consists of the Project Metadata Model, the Dataset Metadata Model and the Observation Data Model, which were specifically developed for CS initiatives. By implementing these, the platform will strengthen the interoperating arrangements that exist between other, similar platforms (e.g., BioCollect and SciStarter) to ensure that CS and OS continue to grow globally in terms of participants, impact and fields of application.
De Erfenis van Mobutu
Authors: Vergaerde Geert
Published: February 2021

The Legacy of Mobutu

This article intends to give an explanation of the possible consequences for Zaire of 25 years of Mobutist regime. This is important, because during the second republic there was a constant growth of a regime sui generis with fundamental characteristics that, in the near future, will have an important influence on the political, social and economic events.

- The division of the enormous amount of power could result in heavy quarrels.

- For years, there has not been an independent political elite, so that the formation of such an elite in a short period of time will be very difficult.

- The patrimonialistic style of government has resulted in a political environment that is composed of informal networks and• dependent relations, with in the centre Mobutu.

- The continuing cycle of opposition and collaboration has brought severe damage to the image and credibility of the opposition. Besides, there is a big gap between the political elite and the population.

- The policy of ethnic mobilisation has increased the ethnic consciousness.

- Patrimonialism and parasitism have generated a pandemic corruption in all layers of the population.

- The policy of borrowing money has led to gigantic debts and the loans have not led to any development of the economic capacity.

- The insecure position of the political and economic executives has created a spiral of insecurity and corruption, which, on its turn, has created an dialectic of repression.
Wanjiru’s Search for self in Ngugi Wa Thiong’o’s “Minutes of Glory”
Authors: Mordaunt Owen G.
Published: February 2021

This paper deals with Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s portrayal of the protagonist in his short story “Minutes of Glory”. Wanjiru finds herself trapped in an urban setting and is a victim of her situation and low self-esteem. The story is a poignant and touching study of this young woman who is battling with an identity problem and is seeking acceptance in a post-independence setting where women are exploited by men of the New Africa elite. She is regarded as “a wounded bird in flight: a forced landing now and then but nevertheless wobbling from place to place …” The story affirms female self-realization rather than perpetual self-alienation, and that validates the persistence in attaining her desired goal.
De Oude Fotodokumentatie Over Rwanda in het Museum van Tervuren
Authors: Creemers-Palmers Magda
Published: February 2021

The ‘Ancient’ Rwanda Photo-Documentation in the Museum of Tervuren

In september 1989 the ‘Musée national du Rwanda’ was inaugurated in Butare (Rwanda). Construction and arrangement of the Museum were completed by the ‘Musée royal de l’Afrique centrale’ of Tervuren. For this occasion, Tervuren started to collect an ‘ancient’ photo-documentation of Rwanda, to supply the new Rwanda-Muséum with pictorial sources.

Public as well as some private collections were gathered so that a final selection could be done. Up till now this photo-documentation is still kept in the Muséwn of Tervuren. For the sake of the historical research about Rwanda, our final purpose is, in co-operation with the Rwanda-Muséum, to complete and to gather as much the photographic evidence as possible. Moreover, these sources need to be identified and described; only future and elaborated research will reveal more data about this important photographic documentation.
Namibië Drie Jaar Later: Politiek Ontvoogd Maar Economisch Wankel
Authors: Willemot Yves
Published: February 2021

Namibia, After Three Years : Political Independent but Economic Unstable

Namibia became independent on the 21st of March 1990, after seventy-five years of South African colonial and racial rule. SW APO fought a long war for liberation, but the independence was also gained thanks to the diplomatic pressure from the United Nations. The United Nations were actively involved in the organisation of the first free elections which were held on the 7th of November 1989.

The SW APO liberation movement became by far the most important political party in the Namibian Parliament. But from the beginning the SWAPO-leaders explained that the past should be forgotten. They promoted a constructive political and economic collaboration with all Namibians, African and European. Due to this atmosphere of reconciliation Namibia had a successful political independence. One of the world's most progressive constitutions was written. It ends all racial discrimination and guarantees an extensive review of the human rights. The rules for the organisation of the legislative, executive and judiciary power are respected by all political parties. Namibia is without any doubt an example for a lot of African countries, which are now making steps towards democracy and multi-partyism.

The Namibian government has still a lot of problems to deal with. The major ones are the social and economic inequalities that still exist between African and European Namibians. The conditions of life of the European Namibians are comparable to these in modern western societies, while African Namibians are living in poverty. The government will have to change this, because in the long term one cannot expect to build democracy on empty stomachs. But in order to realize the necessary economic growth, Namibians are also counting on the support and the investments from abroad. A member of government recently said: “Now we’ve installed democracy and the human rights are respected, where are the foreign investments and the international aid?”
Topnaar or Hottentot? The People on the Top Revisited
Authors: van Damme Patrick , van Den Eynden Veerle
Published: February 2021

The Topnaar which live in the Namib Desert have only been studied superficially. This article gives some sociological, historical and general interest information about these wonderful people.
Recent Dutch and Belgian Approaches to Ethnicity in Africa
Authors: Schilder Kees , Van Binsbergen Wim
Published: February 2021

The papers in the present special issue of Afrika Focus are discussed from a comparative and theoretical perspective, which highlights the shortcomings of current approaches to African ethnicity on two counts: the assumption that ethnicity is a colonial creation, and the over-emphasis on political manipulation. The papers here presented suggest that there is a case for a re-assessment of the limits to ethnic manipulation, and the exploration of the explanatory value of local cultures considered over considerable time periods.
Local Rulers in North Cameroon the Interplay of Politics and Conversion
Authors: Schilder Kees
Published: February 2021

This article analyses the conversion to Islam of indigenous chiefs in North Cameroon. The chiefs studied belong to the Mundang ethnic group. Their islamisation is interpreted as the outcome of the ambivalence brought about by their intermediary role between local society and the wider society. This approach offers insights in (a) the connection between conversion and political careers; (b) the relation between Islam and ethnic identities; and (c) the popular legitimacy of conversion.
Stagnatie en Groei van Een Plattelandskern in de Midden Atlas van Marokko: Een Macro-Perspectief
Authors: Venema Bernhard
Published: February 2021

Stagnation and Growth of a Rural Centre in the Middle Ailas of Morocco: A Macro-Perspective

This article describes the backgrounds of stagnation and growth of the rural centre Azrou in Morocco. Before the Protectorate (1912) this centre was the most important market-place for the Beni Mguild cattle-holders. Although it was connected with the international trading route between Tanger, Fez/Meknes and Tafilalt, it remained a secondary trading centre because in the Middle Atlas the central government was not always able to guarantee safe passage of the caravans. At the tum of last century, the growth of Azrou stagnated because trading and manufacturing became concentrated in the cities along the Atlantic coast.

Since the Protectorate, Azrou developed into an important rural centre due to the development of the primary sector and trade. This was encouraged by the ‘pacification’ of the Middle Atlas, the colonization of part of the area and the foundation of several public and semi-public institutions. Azrou’s growth continued in the post-colonial period with a spectacular rate just after independence because the new government admitted free circulation of men. From the new possibilities, migrants from the south (Ait Gheriss) and from the north (Rijfis) profited most and the Beni Guild the least.
Ideology and the De/Naturalization of Meaning in the Cameroonian Novel
Authors: Yewah Emmanuel
Published: February 2021

This article shifts the focus of the study of ideology from the question “what is ideology?” to how it is produced and reproduced. It deals with the process by which social subjects/characters, i.e., the dominant class and the subjugated, participate, through their interactions in the network of relationships, in the production and reproduction of ideologies and meanings once they have become educated, through their experiences and by other social activists, of their subjugating effects.