bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do ensino remoto emergencial ao ensino híbrido no curso de Ciências Biológicas: a nossa visão a partir do Instituto de Biociências da Universidade de São Paulo (IB-USP)
Authors: Chow Fungyi , Calixto Cristiane Paula Gomes , Mello Marco Aurelio Ribeiro
Published: September 2021

A formação de biólogos baseia-se fortemente em um currículo presencial, incluindo inúmeras atividades práticas de laboratório e campo. Essa estrutura foi abruptamente abalada pela pandemia em 2020, forçando-nos a uma mudança para o ensino remoto emergencial (ERE). Sobrevivemos e nos adaptamos. Agora é hora de refletirmos com calma sobre a nossa prática docente. Que tal aproveitar o que aprendemos no calor da batalha e pensar em uma futura evolução do ERE para o ensino híbrido no curso de Ciências Biológicas do IB-USP? Assim como ocorre evolução biológica e cultural, é natural que a nossa prática docente e o processo de ensino-aprendizagem também evoluam. Cometemos erros e acertos, e as nossas experiências oferecem uma oportunidade de abraçar o processo de adaptação e evoluir. É importante ressaltar que o hibridismo em um curso de Ciências Biológicas, por definição, não envolve abolir experiências práticas presenciais que fomentem habilidades e competências fundamentais para a atuação profissional de biólogos. Não defendemos aqui uma migração integral para a educação a distância (EAD) ou os cursos abertos online em massa (MOOC), mas a incorporação de aprendizados e ferramentas obtidos durante o ERE. O ensino híbrido, além de valorizar significado e contexto, pode facilitar que cada aluno estabeleça o seu próprio ritmo de estudo. Ele permite ao estudante um papel ativo na aprendizagem autônoma e na exploração de novos conteúdos, dentro de limites de organização e prazos de aprendizado. Isso pode ainda aumentar o aproveitamento das atividades práticas de laboratório e campo, e de outras que são mais produtivas em modo presencial. O ensino híbrido, com boa parte do conteúdo passada de forma remota, torna a experiência de aprendizagem mais agradável e possibilita a construção do conhecimento de forma mais colaborativa, ativa e integrativa. É notório que estamos enfrentando um dos maiores desafios da nossa era. Felizmente, temos a oportunidade de unir as nossas experiências e aumentar a eficiência do processo ensino- aprendizagem, assim como promover uma maior inclusão e acolhimento nas nossas turmas.
Prognostic Implications of Left Ventricular Myocardial Work Indices in Patients With Secondary Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Yedidya Idit , Lustosa Rodolfo P. , Fortuni Federico , van der Bijl Pieter , Namazi Farnaz , Vo Ngoc Mai , Meucci Maria Chiara , Ajmone Marsan Nina , Bax Jeroen J. , Delgado Victoria
Published: September 2021

Background:

Assessment of left ventricular (LV) function in patients with secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) remains challenging but is an important parameter for risk stratification. The association of LV myocardial work components (work index [GWI], constructive [GCW] and wasted [GWW] work, and work efficiency) derived from pressure-strain loops obtained with speckle tracking echocardiography, and all-cause mortality in patients with SMR was investigated.

Methods:

LV myocardial GWI, GCW, GWW, and global work efficiency were measured with speckle tracking strain echocardiography in 373 patients (72% men, median age 68 years) with various grades of SMR. All-cause mortality was the primary end point.

Results:

Mild SMR was observed in 143 patients, 128 had moderate SMR, and 102 had severe SMR. Patients with severe SMR had the largest LV volumes and the worst LV ejection fraction and LV global longitudinal strain. In patients with severe SMR, LV GWI and GCW were more impaired (500 mm Hg% versus 680 mm Hg%
P
=0.024 and 678 mm Hg% versus 851 mm Hg%
P
=0.006, respectively), while GWW was lower (130 mm Hg% versus 260 mm Hg%
P
<0.001, respectively) and global work efficiency was significantly higher (82% versus 76%,
P
=0.001) compared with patients with mild SMR. After a median follow-up of 56 months, 161 patients died. LV GWI≤500 mm Hg%, LV GCW≤750 mm Hg%, and LV GWW<300 mm Hg% were independently associated with excess mortality.

Conclusions:

Patients with severe SMR had the worst LV GWI and LV GCW but better LV GWW and global work efficiency reflecting the unloading of the LV in the low-pressure left atrial chamber. These parameters were independently associated with worse long-term survival in patients with SMR.
From Reprisals to Criminal Accountability: State Bias and the Prospects of Limiting War Through Law
Authors: Kalmanovitz Pablo
Published: September 2021

Over the past 25 years, criminal prosecutions for war crimes have become a central element in the long-standing project of governing hostilities in international law. According to many, the threat of criminal prosecutions can be a general deterrent against violations of the laws of war, and can contribute more broadly to the diffusion and domestic appropriation of humanitarian norms. This article discusses some unintended effects of this “anti-impunity turn” in the laws of war in the context of non-international armed conflicts. Specifically, it examines the consequences of the fact that states typically have a monopoly over the means of legitimate criminal investigation for alleged crimes committed in their territory. Far from operating on a level playing field, criminal investigations in war contexts must be undertaken under institutional conditions that tend to favor state agents over non-state opposition groups. The article spells out some implications of this form of state bias and argues that it can contribute to exacerbate conflict and prolong violence in war.
Introduction – Plausible, Norms of Warfare: Reducing the Gap Between the Normative and the Empirical
Authors: Colonomos Ariel , Beardsworth Richard
Published: September 2021

This special issue argues in favor of a new approach to the study of norms of warfare, which combines a normative analysis of ethical problems arising in war with an explanatory analysis of the use of force. Norms of warfare go as far back as Antiquity, and their study has followed a long historical path. In recent years, the ethics of war, mostly grounded in philosophy, has considerably expanded as a field. Notwithstanding such efforts to refine our normative knowledge of what should be just norms for the use of force, we argue that a more interdisciplinary approach is required to orient the study of the laws of war. In this Special Issue, proposals are made that, along with normative analysis, bring to the discussion not only disciplines such as political science and international relations, but also social theory, psychology and the neurosciences. We argue from a non-ideal perspective, that in order for norms to be just, they need to be ‘plausible’ for those who should abide by them. They also need to make sense in the context of democratic societies that favor a pluralistic debate on justice and ethics. Epistemically, we argue that, in order to understand if norms are plausible and just, reducing the gap between the normative and the empirical is required.
Redefining progress in Trinitarian theology: Stephen R. Holmes on the Trinity
Authors: Sanders Fred
Published: September 2021

This essay examines some of the implications for contemporary constructive work on the doctrine of the Trinity if Steve Holmes is correct in his judgments about the direction taken by the recent revival of interest in the doctrine. Holmes raises serious questions about the exegetical basis of the doctrine, and raises the question of what God has revealed in the sending of the Son and the Spirit. Some areas of maximal divergence between the classic tradition and the recent revival are probed, such as the recent lack of interest in the elaboration and defense of divinity unity, and also of the divine attributes as explored by classical theism. Finally, Holmes’s work raises questions about the proper relationships between systematic theology and allied theological disciplines such as historical theology and analytic theology.
Redaction Criticism on Trial: The Cases of A. B. Bruce and Robert Gundry
Authors: Strickland Michael
Published: September 2021

This article deals with the trials of two evangelical scholars, one from the late nineteenth century, Alexander B. Bruce, and the other from the late twentieth, Robert Gundry. Both faced accusation and judgment from their peers because of their redaction-critical remarks about the synoptic gospels. Bruce was tried by the Free Church of Scotland, while Gundry’s membership in the Evangelical Theological Society was challenged. After considering the cases of both, consideration is given to potential lessons that evangelical scholars who use redactioncritical methods may learn from the experiences of both men.
Hermeneutical Challenges for a Premillennial Interpretation of Revelation 20
Authors: Merkle Benjamin L. , Krug W. Tyler
Published: September 2021

The traditional premillennial view of Revelation has implications that are contradictory to the most straightforward interpretation of clearer passages in the New Testament. These implications include: (1) the present earth will endure far beyond the return of Christ; (2) the unrighteous will not be judged when Christ returns; (3) natural bodies will be present during the millennium; and (4) people will have the opportunity to receive salvation during the millennium. The most straightforward interpretation of texts surveyed to disprove these premillennial implications must be rejected by Premillennialists in favour of the more obscure and enigmatic text of Revelation 20. But in rejecting the straightforward reading of these texts, Premillennialists are also rejecting two key principles of hermeneutics: (1) the more obscure passages should be interpreted in light of clearer passages and (2) the interpretation that is consistent with the greater amount of biblical support should be favoured.
Alternaria guilanica sp. nov., a new fungal pathogen causing leaf spot and blight on eggplant in Iran
Authors: POURSAFAR ALIREZA , HASHEMLOU ESMAEIL , GHOSTA YOUBERT , SALIMI FATEMEH , JAVAN-NIKKHAH MOHAMMAD
Published: September 2021

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an economically important solanaceous crop in Iran with fruits used for food and traditional medicine. Despite the importance of Alternaria leaf spot and blight disease of solanaceous crops which is commonly seen in the fields, our knowledge about the causal agents on eggplant is limited. In this study, a set of large-spored Alternaria isolates was recovered from eggplant with leaf spot and blight symptoms in Somehsara region, Guilan province, Iran. All recovered isolates shared conspicuous morphological characteristics e.g. production of large, solitary conidia with several transverse disto- and eusepta and long tapering filamentous beak resemble those seen in the members of Alternaria section Porri. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses based on the internal transcribed spacer region of nrDNA (ITS-rDNA) and parts of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), second largest subunit of RNA Polymerase II (RPB2), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α) and Alternaria major allergen (Alt a 1) gene sequences provided further evidence supporting not only their exact placement in Alternaria sect. Porri, but also in a distinct lineage representing a new species. The new species was named, described and illustrated herein as Alternaria guilanica sp. nov.. The phylogenetic and morphological comaprisions of the new species with other closely related species were also provided. Pathogenicity test conducted for the new strains revealed that they were capable to induce disease symptoms on eggplant leaves under greenhouse conditions, and re-isolation of the inoculated isolates confirmed Koch’s postulates.
Hohenbergia densa (Bromeliaceae), a new species from Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Authors: CAVALCANTE BRAYAN PAIVA , SILVA MACIEL FLORÊNCIO DA
Published: September 2021

We describe a new species from Rio Grande do Norte (Brazil), Hohenbergia densa, that inhabits the dry vegetation of the state. This new species can be recognized by its short and robust habit, differing from other Caatinga-endemic species of the region, that commonly present a broader rosette with a long inflorescence axis. Additionally, we provide illustrations, habit, phenology, a map of occurrence, and a table of morphological comparisons with similar taxa.
Taxonomic notes on the genus Eucosia (Orchidaceae) in Japan and Taiwan
Authors: SUETSUGU KENJI , HSU TIAN CHUAN
Published: September 2021

N/A
Review of the cardinalfishes of the genus Cercamia (Percomorpha: Apogonidae) of the Red Sea and Indian Ocean with descriptions of three new species
Authors: FRASER THOMAS H. , BOGORODSKY SERGEY V. , MAL AHMAD O. , ALPERMANN TILMAN J.
Published: September 2021

The representatives of Cercamia from the Indian Ocean including Red Sea are reviewed and three new species are described: Cercamia spio n. sp., formerly known as C. eremia (Allen, 1987), is described from 14 specimens, 17–33 mm SL, collected in 10–15 meters from northern (Duba) to central (Jeddah) Saudi Arabia and from Jezirat Fara’un, Egypt. It also has been photographed from the Gulf of Aqaba (Dahab, Egypt) and El Quseir (Mangrove Bay, Egypt). The new species is distinguished from other Indian Ocean Cercamia in having fewer developed gill rakers on lower limb (usually 11 versus usually 12–13) and fewer anal-fin rays (11 versus usually 12–13). Another new species, Cercamia laamu, n. sp., is described only from the Maldives and Chagos Archipelago based on five specimens 16.0–30.5 mm SL. It differs from all Indian Ocean Cercamia in having more greater number of the second dorsal-fin rays (10 versus usually 9), and a translucent body devoid of reddish marks versus small reddish dots and crisscross lines. The third new species, Cercamia mascarene, n. sp., is described from 40 specimens 19–36 mm SL, from Rodrigues Island, Mauritius. It differs from Cercamia eremia in having a greater number of developed gill rakers on the lower limb of the first gill arch (usually 13 versus usually 12). Free neuromasts and cephalic pores are illustrated for Cercamia mascarene and free neuromasts on the body and caudal fin are illustrated for Japanese specimens of C. cf. eremia. New diagnoses are provided for Cercamia cladara, the type species of the genus, and C. eremia. A map of collection locations for species of Cercamia is presented to show the breath of known occurrences in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. A new morphologic diagnosis is provided for Cercamia. A phylogenetic analysis of the barcoding portion of the mitochondrial COI gene, including all available sequences from members of the genus Cercamia, displays a much higher species diversity than expected, with high levels of divergence among recognized and undescribed species. A key to the described Indian Ocean species is provided.
Morphological description of a new specimen of Herpetoreas burbrinki Guo et al 2014 (Serpentes: Colubridae)
Authors: PENG LIFANG , HUANG SONG , BURBRINK FRANK T. , ZHANG YONG , GUO PENG , WU HAILONG
Published: September 2021

The original description of Burbrink’s Keelback, Herpetoreas burbrinki was based on a sole damaged specimen collected from Zayu County, Xizang Autonomous Region, China in September 2007. On 16 August 2019, we collected a second live adult female specimen from the type locality. The identity of the species is established based on morphological and molecular comparison with the holotype. One mitochondrial gene (Cytb) and three nuclear genes (C-mos, Rag1, NT3) of the new specimen were sequenced. The four sequences all share the same haplotypes with the holotype. We describe the coloration in life, variation with the type and expand the morphological description of this species.
“A point that escapes Darwin”: Crises of colonial self in the nature essays of Edward Hamilton Aitken and Philip Robinson
Authors: Sandhar Jason
Published: September 2021

This article shows how the colonial nature essay both spoofs and affirms crises of the European self in British India’s post-Rebellion era (1857–1947). Authored by English civil servants who took to naturalism as a hobby, the nature essay’s exaggerated misadventures with quotidian animals such as ants, beetles, and mosquitos parody British accounts of the 1857 Rebellion, while dehumanizing caricatures of uncooperative servants reduce Indian society’s complex hierarchies of class, caste, gender, and race to buffoonery. Taking as a case study two of the genre’s exemplars, Edward Hamilton Aitken and Philip Robinson, I read the colonized animals and people in these texts as agents who destabilize the material and psychic life of empire. Historians and postcolonialists agree that censorship, paranoia, and violence defined British rule over India between 1857 and 1947, yet they overlook the everyday life of empire. The nature essay’s peculiar synthesis of humour and science grants surprising insights into how colonial agents understood themselves as Raj hegemony shifted into its final stages. As the nature essay’s colonized people and animals thwart the daily work of empire, they also reveal the colonial class’ failure to confront its anxieties about the sahib’s political and epistemic stability as a rational, post-Enlightenment agent destined to master the colony.
Uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery and perioperative pirfenidone for lung cancer and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a case report
Authors: Saiki Ayae , Mizobuchi Teruaki , Nagato Kaoru , Ishibashi Fumihiro , Tsuyusaki Junichi , Sugano Isamu
Published: September 2021

Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) occasionally experience acute exacerbations after surgery for lung cancer. Several recent studies have revealed a prophylactic effect of perioperative pirfenidone treatment on postoperative acute exacerbations of IPF in patients with lung cancer. A 75-year-old woman consulted with her pulmonologist because of an IPF shadow detected by follow-up chest computed tomography 2 months after surgical treatment of biliary cancer. Another 7 months later, chest computed tomography showed a 23- × 14-mm nodule located in the right lower lobe with high accumulation of fluorodeoxyglucose detected by positron emission tomography, resulting in a radiological diagnosis of primary lung cancer with IPF. We administered perioperative pirfenidone treatment followed by right lower lobectomy using uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery after attaining a pathological diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. The patient developed no acute exacerbations of IPF during the postoperative period, and she had no recurrence of lung cancer for 15 months after surgery. We successfully used a combination of perioperative antifibrotic medication and minimally invasive surgery after lung cancer surgery in a patient with IPF.
How does community-managed infrastructure scale up from rural to urban? An example of co-production in community water projects in Northern Pakistan
Authors: Birkinshaw Matt , Grieser Anna , Tan Jeff
Published: September 2021

This paper examines the role of participation, co-production and community management in a random sample of 50 rural and urban water systems under the Water and Sanitation Extension Programme (WASEP) in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It looks at the role of an NGO (the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat) in co-production, and how this model of community-based water management (CBWM) contributes to the discussion in the literature. Specifically, the paper considers whether the largely rural WASEP model can be successfully scaled up and scaled out to urban centres, drawing on evidence from a survey of over 2,500 rural and urban households. The findings illustrate the importance of participation in the successful delivery of water systems. However, higher levels of rural participation are related to specifically rural features, including the smaller size and more limited diversity of communities. The paper concludes that new methods may be required for the transfer of CBWM to urban centres with much larger, more diverse and growing populations.
Characterization of gas turbine ingested sand particles based on electrostatic signal
Authors: Sun Jianzhong , Jiang Heng , Yang Caiqiong , Liu Ruochen
Published: September 2021

Particle ingestion into a gas turbine can have serious effects on both performance and engine in-service reliability. Thus there exists a need for in situ monitoring and characterizing particulate matter entering an aircraft engine inlet for the purposes of engine damages estimation and prognosis. This paper presents the initial development of Ingested Debris Monitoring System (IDMS) signal processing method of characterizing the ingested particles. A theoretical analysis and simulation study were carried out to study the relationships between the characteristics of the ingested sand particles and the features of the IDMS signal both in frequency- and time-domain. A Finite-Element Modeling (FEM) for the IDMS Sensor was developed, then the validated FEM modeling was used for simulation experiments of particles ingestion under various conditions of different particle moving speeds, concentrations and charge-to-mass ratios. Results of the theoretical analysis and simulation study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method to provide real time information characterizing the size and concentration of ingested sand particles, and will serve as an impetus to carry out further research.
Detecting cadmium contamination in loessal soils using near-infrared spectroscopy in the Xiaoqinling gold area
Authors: Yang Min , Xu Youning , Shang Haixing , Abdullah Abdullah , Zhang Wen
Published: September 2021

Loess is an important soil type that is widespread in the Loess Plateau of northwest China. However, mining exploitation, beneficiation, and metallurgy have led to inorganic contamination of soils that threatens the health of residents. The regular absorption peak shift of near-infrared (NIR) spectra in loessal soils represents a new method of soil environmental assessment based on field reflectance spectroscopy and hyperspectral remote sensing. Specifically, the NIR features of loessal soil will shift in response to changes in the soil composition and microstructure induced by heavy metal pollution. This study collected 27 samples from notable regions in the study area. Mid-infrared (MIR) spectral analysis, NIR spectral analysis, modified seven-step Tessier sequential extraction, and X-ray diffraction were used to analyze the band shift phenomenon of MIR and NIR features. The alignment of NIR bands was determined via the correlation between NIR and MIR bands associated with the vibration variations of the hydroxyl group. The correlations established by NIR band positions and exchangeable Cd cations were also analyzed. The results were then discussed according to the mineralogical characteristics of the heavy metal cations adsorbed on the surface and interlayer sites of clay minerals. These results can be used as a reference for the application of NIR technology to detecting heavy metal contamination in the soil of mining regions.
Nature, Culture and Oriental Heritage: Ethnographic Explorations on Patua and Chhau Communities of Bengal
Authors: Chatterjee Archita , Bhattacharya Shreyashi , Mukherjee Jenia
Published: September 2021

A culturally vibrant country like India has multiple embedded forms of folk traditions accompanied by an essentially rich history that is constituted by a cultural–ecological heritage. West Bengal, one of the eastern states of India, is inhabited by numerous ecosystem-dependent communities. Nature, culture, and livelihoods remain deeply entangled in the indigenous practices, blurring concrete boundaries that separate tangible from intangible heritage. In mainstream “ecological” and “heritage” discourses, the folk performative customs and their architects are often projected as harbingers of ecological wisdom—relying on nature and, at the same time, giving back to her. Shedding light on Patuas of Naya Pingla, West Medinipur, and Chhau mask makers from Charida, Purulia, we complicate this line of argument by exploring complex interactions between material and cultural variables influencing these “living heritage” traditions. We have been “immersed” in dense ethnographic realms of the field to unpack complexities determining complex human–nature intersections that concurrently offer livelihood provisions and cultural sustenance among folk communities of rural South Asia. By weaving multilayered web of information and exploring the nonlinear ecology–economy–culture correlation along the two case studies, we have brought to the fore the significance of place-based narratives to inform overarching theories on heritage and ecological sustainability beyond mainstream perspectives. The case studies, though in geographical proximity, are neither meant to complement each other or to present a comparative narrative of ecological–cultural connect, but to highlight the importance of unmappable micro-realities and nonlinearities in shaping a community’s resilience.
Enhancement of Immunity and Health in Neonates and Infants
Authors: Singh Anita , Kaur Harkirat , Gupta Girish , Naranje Kirti , Verma Akanksha , Roy Abhijeet , Gautam Arun , Pandey Anupama , Gupta Ashok , Jaiswal Rahul , Bajpai Shivani , Dwivedi Manish , Birthare Arjun
Published: September 2021

Immunity is protective mechanism of the body against infection, diseases, and cancers. The stronger the immunity is the healthier we are. With increasing environmental change worldwide, increase of new emerging diseases and infection over last few decades, it has become imperative to move toward prevention more than the treatment. The immune mechanism in pediatric population especially neonates and infants is much different than adults and is yet evolving. The development of immunity starts in utero and is dependent on several factors. The various efforts to improve immunity and health should start from antenatal period focusing on overall health and nutrition of mother. Maternal nutrition, antenatal steroids, and delayed cord clamping are helpful in decreasing various neonatal morbidities which include respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage, and mortality. After birth during initial 6 months, exclusive breastfeeding, growth monitoring, primary immunization, developmentally supportive care, and care of infections are of utmost importance. After 6 months of age, a balanced approach toward introduction of complementary feeding, care of micronutrients, optimal environment, and inclusion of immunity enhancing foods in diet may have considerable benefits.
Trade union community membership: exploring what people who are not in paid employment could contribute to union activism
Authors: Holgate Jane , Alberti Gabriella , Byford Iona , Greenwood Ian
Published: September 2021

The industrial relations literature tends to argue that workers join trade unions primarily for instrumental reasons, for example, to obtain assistance if there is a problem at work. But this clearly does not apply to people who are not in work. It is in many ways counterintuitive to join a trade union when one is not an employee or in paid employment, looking for a job, or retired. Generally, there is little material benefit in doing so. Others have noted, however, that personal values, particularly associated with the ideological left, can cultivate a predisposition toward joining a union that is not based on a purely material calculus. Nevertheless, this analysis is usually applied to workers. The research reflected in this article aims to understand the motivation of people who are not in paid employment, such as jobseekers/unemployed, students and retirees, to join labour unions and become active within them. It does so through a case study of the United Kingdom’s largest private sector union, Unite, and considers the contribution to, or rationale for, union activism within community membership and the possibilities for rethinking trade unionism beyond its traditional workplace base.
Prospective evaluation of optical coherence tomography for disease detection in the Casey mobile eye clinic
Authors: Tan Ou , Chen Aiyin , Li Yan , Bailey Steven , Hwang Thomas S , Lauer Andreas K , Chiang Michael F , Huang David
Published: September 2021

This study was designed to evaluate iVue Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) effectiveness in screening for eye disease compared to clinical examination. Subjects were recruited from the Casey Eye Community Outreach Program Mobile Clinic during its routinely scheduled outreach clinics to indigent, underserved populations throughout Oregon. Macular optical coherence tomography interpretation and automated optical coherence tomography analysis were compared to the clinical examination, with specific attention to findings indicative of retinal abnormalities, risks for glaucoma, and narrow angles. As a result, a total of 114 subjects were included in this study. In diabetics, optical coherence tomography and clinical exam were in fair agreement (kappa = 0.39), with 22% of eyes having abnormal findings on macular optical coherence tomography and 26% of eyes having diabetic retinopathy or diabetic macular edema on fundus exam. In non-diabetics, optical coherence tomography and clinical exam were in fair agreement (kappa = 0.28), with 11% of eyes having abnormal findings on macular optical coherence tomography and 9% on fundus exam. Using optical coherence tomography ganglion cell complex and retinal nerve fiber layer analysis, 18% of eyes were found to be glaucoma suspects, whereas clinical exam of cup-to-disc ratio detected 8% and intraocular pressure 5%. Agreements between optical coherence tomography and other methods were poor (kappa < 0.11) for glaucoma suspect. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography of the angle found 8% of eyes to have occludable angles, whereas slit lamp and gonioscopy found 5% of eyes to have narrow angles, with moderate agreement (kappa = 0.57). In summary, optical coherence tomography detected additional retinal abnormalities, glaucoma suspects, and narrow angles compared to clinical exam alone and may serve as a useful adjunct to the clinical exam in screening for eye disease in a low-risk, medically underserved, ethnically diverse population.
Reshaping the review of consent so we might improve participant choice
Authors: Davies Hugh
Published: September 2021

Consent is one necessary foundation for ethical research and it’s one of the research ethics committee’s major roles to ensure that the consent process meets acceptable standards. Although on Oxford ‘A’ REC (an NHS Research Ethics Committee based in the UK) we’ve been impressed by the thought and work put into this aspect of research ethics, we’ve continued to have concerns about the suitability and effectiveness of consent processes in supporting decision making, particularly for clinical trials. There’s poor understanding of what people want to help them decide; current processes don’t provide the best grounding for informed consent and there’s inadequate public involvement. We’ve also found a lack of proportionality with researchers failing to adapt consent procedures in proportion to the burdens and consequences of the study. As a result, people are often not best helped to make an informed choice when asked to join a research study. To address these concerns, we considered how we might improve this aspect of research ethics review. Recognising the central importance of the dialogue between the volunteer and researcher, we’ve drawn up a model or flowchart of what we deem good consent practice, proposing consent should be built around four simple steps:

Step 1: Introducing the study and the choices: helping the potential participants get an overview of the proposal and introducing the key issues.

Step 2: Explaining all the details of the study using the detailed Participant Information Sheet.

Step 3: After a gap, if necessary, reviewing and checking understanding.

Step 4: Reaching agreement and recording consent.

These steps, we believe, could help all involved and this article lays out ways we might improve participant choice while complying with accepted principles and current regulations.
Glenohumeral abduction contractures after residual neonatal brachial plexus injury
Authors: Alabau-Rodriguez Sergi , Romero-Larrauri Pablo , Soldado Francisco
Published: September 2021

Glenohumeral abduction contractures are common in patients with neonatal brachial plexus injury, but little has been previously published about them. We conducted a retrospective analysis of data prospectively collected from 205 consecutive children (108 female) of mean age 9.6 years with neonatal brachial plexus injury (C5-C6, 58%; C5-C7, 29%; C5-T1, 14%). Most children (69%) showed a glenohumeral abduction contracture, it being more common in those with upper neonatal brachial plexus injury.

Level of evidence: III
Naringenin Regulates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Abnormal Airway Surface Liquid Secretion
Authors: Shi Rui , Guan Min-Yi , Fan Wei-Yang , Li Pei-Bo , Yang Zhong-Yi , Wu Hao , Su Wei-Wei
Published: September 2021

Airway surface liquid (ASL) is one of the key factors affecting the respiratory system's physiological function. Abnormal ASL secretion can increase the incidence of various respiratory diseases. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation can damage the airway epithelial barrier, affect the concentration of ASL contents, and down-regulate ion channel expression, which in turn causes abnormal ASL secretion. Naringenin, which exists in many Citrus foods, has the ability to promote airway surface liquid secretion. This work is designed to investigate the regulatory mechanism of naringenin on LPS-induced abnormal ASL secretion. The effects of naringenin and LPS on the viability of Calu-3 cells were measured by CellTiter 96® AQueous One Solution Cell Proliferation Assay (MTS). ASL secretion volume was measured by a micropipette on air–liquid interface cultured cells. The concentration of Cl−, Na+, lysozyme, and total protein in ASL were respectively measured by assay kits. The mRNA expressions were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and proteins were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results indicated that LPS could affect ASL secretion and regulate cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), aquaporin 1 (AQP1) and aquaporin 5 (AQP5) expression. Naringenin had the ability to regulate the ASL secretion by increasing secretion volume, and Cl− and Na+ concentrations, reducing lysozyme and total protein content, and regulating CFTR, AQP1, and AQP5 expression. This study indicated that naringenin had regulating effects to attenuate LPS-induced abnormal ASL secretion.
Voices from the Street: What Homeless Youth Think We Need to Know
Authors: Dyck Marilyn , Rosenbaum Jill Leslie , O’Grady Kaitlin
Published: September 2021

While social scientists have attempted to become informed about the needs and realities of marginalized youth, rarely do they include their voices in these discussions. Yet, research suggests that listening to young people results in the development of more successful programming. The authors examined 30 years of youth writing to understand what program participants think they need. Focusing on youth experiencing homelessness narratives regarding “leaving the street,” the article identifies three themes to guide government officials and program staff in program improvement: (1) the process of becoming ready to leave street life, (2) the factors that cause setbacks to occur, and (3) the recognition of young people’s need for independence and concerns that impact program effectiveness. Finally, using their words, we present suggestions for policy changes perceived to be most beneficial.
A view from anthropology: Should anthropologists fear the data machines?
Authors: Albris Kristoffer , Otto Eva I , Astrupgaard Sofie L , Gregersen Emilie Munch , Jørgensen Laura Skousgaard , Jørgensen Olivia , Sandbye Clara Rosa , Schønning Signe
Published: September 2021

If you are an anthropologist wanting to use digital methods or programming as part of your research, where do you start? In this commentary, we discuss three ways in which anthropologists can use computational tools to enhance, support, and complement ethnographic methods. By presenting our reflections, we hope to contribute to the stirring conversations about the potential future role(s) of (social) data science vis-a-vis anthropology and ethnography, and to inspire other anthropologists to take up the use of digital methods, programming, and computational tools in their own research.
Lived Experiences of Low-Income, African American Males in a High School STEAM Academy: Implications for School Counselors
Authors: Fletcher Edward C. , Moore James L.
Published: September 2021

Using a qualitative case study approach, this investigation focused specifically on the school and home experiences of low-income, African American males who had attended a career academy focused on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. With semistructured interviews of individuals and focus groups, we investigated the school and home experiences of African American male former high school students and how these experiences influenced their overall educational pursuit. This study concentrated on the specific research question: What are the unique identities, school experiences, and life challenges of low-income, African American males? Data analysis revealed three salient themes: (a) missing critical school and home supports, (b) searching for significant relationships and role models, and (c) desiring to earn money to provide for their families. Based on these qualitative themes, we offer specific strategies that school personnel, such as school counselors, can use to increase school engagement and success among low-income, African American males.
A Qualitative Assessment of the Determinants of Faculty Engagement in Internationalization: A Chinese Perspective
Authors: Li Hui , Khattak Shoukat Iqbal , Jiang Qingquan
Published: September 2021

Faculty is the key agent for internationalization. This interview-based study explored faculty views about the internationalization understanding, rationales, roles, engagement, and motivation in a research-centric, double-first class university in China. Faculty motivation was analyzed using the lens of the motivation systems theory (MST). The main findings concerning the five main themes emerging from the analysis of documents and interviews of twenty-eight faculty members are as follows. First, Chinese faculty’s understanding, rationales, roles, engagement, and motivation were significantly influenced by the national and university policies. Second, they mainly understood internationalization as activities, openness, and cross-cultural exchange. Third, unlike other countries, Chinese faculty espoused a broader scope of internationalization in their rationales, spanning from personal to university, higher education, China, and world development. Fourth, faculty perceived roles in internationalization included main drivers, role models, liaisons, and coordinators. Fifth, faculty motivation comprised goals, beliefs, and emotions. Faculty, among other goals, aspired to improve teaching content and expand students and self-abilities, yet they had mixed context and capacity beliefs. For example, they appreciated the university and national support for international travel, funding, and research but criticized complex travel procedures and teaching evaluation methods. They also felt concerned about their teaching, research, and communicating in a foreign language with students and international peers, except those with foreign backgrounds and experience. Faculty experienced different emotions when undertaking international activities, for example, joy, interest, and excitement to explore and learn. Finally, there was a high-medium level of faculty engagement in teaching and research than service internationalization (low or no engagement).
Secundum Atrial Septal Defect Closure via the Transhepatic Approach in a Patient With Situs Ambiguus and a Left-Sided Inferior Vena Cava
Authors: Olagunju Abdulbaril , Mihyawi Nawfal , Moazez Carmel , Roy Ranjini Raina , Mehdizadeh Azar , Saririan Mehrdad
Published: September 2021

Secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) is the most common type of ASD. Symptoms including dyspnea on exertion usually manifest in the third and fourth decade of life. The transcatheter closure is the treatment of choice for secundum ASD. The transfemoral venous approach has been the mainstay. However, this approach can be challenging or impossible in patients with congenital absence or interruption of the inferior vena cava (IVC). The latter has been reported in patients with situs ambiguus and inversus. In this patient population, other forms of venous access such as the transjugular or transhepatic approach are used. We present a unique case of symptomatic secundum ASD in a patient who was incidentally found to have situs ambiguus with a left-sided intact IVC. An initial attempt at the ASD closure via the transfemoral approach was unsuccessful due to acute angulation. A repeat attempt was successful via the transhepatic approach with the guidance of real-time ultrasound, transesophageal echocardiogram, and the involvement of an interventional radiologist. The procedure was well tolerated without any complications. Repeat transthoracic echocardiogram with agitated saline the day after the procedure was negative for interatrial shunting.
Family Perspectives on Clinical Research for Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis: Enhancing Equity
Authors: Mandel Leslie A , O’Donnell Ellen , Canenguez Katia , Castro-Mendoza Paola B , Lotze Tim , Waubant Emmanuelle , Weinstock-Guttmann Bianca , Chitnis Tanuja
Published: September 2021

Pediatric new drug trials are federally mandated, but family perspectives in multiple sclerosis (MS) research are limited. Due to MS chronicity and long-term medical system involvement, we obtained family views on research priorities and optimized methods for future studies. Focus groups were convened with families impacted by pediatric-onset MS. Recruitment included those followed by the Network of Pediatric MS Centers, geographically disparate locations, and centers’ voluntary election. Study questions included: healthcare experiences, clinical trials perspectives, cognitive/psychosocial/educational outcomes, disease course and disability accrual. All subjects supported future clinical studies. Patients highlighted contribution to knowledge base but were wary of experimental medication and disease-course impeding activities. Parents underscored medication delivery modalities, side-effects, and limiting children’s discomfort. All wanted study relevance made explicit. Suggested future study design elements included: providing compensation, limiting assumptions regarding outcome linkages, understanding study-related psychological impacts, and reducing participation burdens. Rare disease research can assist general medicine diagnosis and referral. Variable study designs and explicit rationale may augment participation. Closing the pediatric research gap requires family engagement in the research process.
In-depth time-dependent analysis of the benefit of allo-HSCT for elderly patients with CR1 AML: a FILO study
Authors: Devillier Raynier , Forcade Edouard , Garnier Alice , Guenounou Sarah , Thepot Sylvian , Guillerm Gaelle , Ceballos Patrice , Hicheri Yosr , Dumas Pierre-Yves , Peterlin Pierre , Hunault-Berger Mathilde , Béné Marie-Christine , Bouvier Anne , Chevallier Patrice , Blaise Didier , Vey Norbert , Pigneux Arnaud , Récher Christian , Huynh Anne
Published: September 2021

The benefit of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) aged >60 years remains a matter of debate, notably when performed in first complete remission (CR1). To clarify this issue, the French Innovative Leukemia Organization (FILO) performed a 10-year real-world time-dependent analysis. The study enrolled patients between 60 and 70 years of age with AML in CR1 after intensive chemotherapy with intermediate (IR) or unfavorable (UR) risk according to the European LeukemiaNet (ELN) 2010 classification. The impact of allo-HSCT was analyzed through three models: (1) time-dependent Cox; (2) multistate for dynamic prediction; and (3) super landmark. The study enrolled 369 (73%) IR and 138 (27%) UR patients with AML, 203 of whom received an allo-HSCT. Classical multivariate analysis showed that allo-HSCT significantly improved relapse-free survival (RFS; hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval (CI)], 0.47 [0.35-0.62]; P < .001) and overall survival (OS; HR [95% CI], 0.56 [0.42-0.76]; P < .001), independently of the ELN risk group. With the multistate model, the predicted 5-year probability for IR and UR patients to remain in CR1 without allo-HSCT was 8% and 1%, respectively. Dynamic predictions confirmed that patients without allo-HSCT continue to relapse over time. Finally, the super landmark model showed that allo-HSCT significantly improved RFS (HR [95% CI], 0.47 [0.36-0.62]; P < .001) and OS (HR [95% CI], 0.54 [0.40-0.72]; P < .001). allo-HSCT in CR1 is reported here as significantly improving the outcome of fit older patients with AML. Long-term RFS without allo-HSCT is very low (<10%), supporting allo-HSCT as being the best curative option for these patients.
Saline and alkaline stresses alter soil properties and composition and structure of gene-based nitrifier and denitrifier communities in a calcareous desert soil
Authors: Guo Jiaxin , Zhou Yongxue , Guo Huijuan , Min Wei
Published: September 2021

Background

Saline and alkaline stresses damages the health of soil systems. Meanwhile, little is known about how saline or alkaline stress affects soil nitrifier and denitrifier communities. Therefore, we compared the responses of gene-based nitrifier and denitrifier communities to chloride (CS), sulfate (SS), and alkaline (AS) stresses with those in a no-stress control (CK) in pots with a calcareous desert soil.

Results

Compared with CK, saline and alkaline stress decreased potential nitrification rate (PNR) and NO3-N; increased pH, salinity, water content, and NH4-N; and decreased copy numbers of amoA-AOA and amoA-AOB genes but increased those of denitrifier nirS and nosZ genes. Copies of nirK increased in SS and AS but decreased in CS. There were more copies of amoA-AOB than of amoA-AOA and of nirS than of nirK or nosZ. Compared with CK, SS and AS decreased operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of amoA-AOB but increased those of nirS and nosZ, whereas CS decreased nirK OTUs but increased those of nosZ. The numbers of OTUs and amoA-AOB genes were greater than those of amoA-AOA. There were positive linear relations between PNR and amoA-AOA and amoA-AOB copies. Compared with CK, the Chao 1 index of amoA-AOA and amoA-AOB decreased in AS, that of nirK increased in CS and SS, but that of nirS and nosZ increased in all treatments. The Shannon index of amoA-AOB decreased but that of nirS increased in CS and SS, whereas the index of nirK decreased in all treatments. Saline and alkaline stress greatly affected the structure of nitrifier and denitrifier communities and decreased potential biomarkers of nirS-type; however, AS increased those of nirK- and nosZ-type, and SS decreased those of nosZ-type. Soil water content, pH, and salinity were important in shaping amoA-AOA and denitrifier communities, whereas soil water and pH were important to amoA-AOB communities.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the nitrifier and denitrifier communities respond to saline and alkaline stresses conditions. Communities of amoA-AOA and amoA-AOB contribute to nitrification in alluvial gray desert soil, and those of nirS are more important in denitrification than those of nirK or nosZ.