bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract B65: MetaTiME: meta-components of the tumor immune microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Yi , Xiang Guanjue , Jiang Yijia Alva , Lynch Allen , Zeng Zexian , Wang Chenfei , Zhang Wubing , Fan Jingyu , Kang Jiajinlong , Gu Shengqing , Wan Changxin , Zhang Boning , Liu Shirley , Brown Myles , Meyer Clifford
Published: December 2022

Recent advances in single-cell RNA sequencing have revealed heterogeneous cell types and gene expression states in the non-cancerous cells in tumors. The integration of multiple scRNA-seq datasets across tumors can reveal common cell types and states in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, tumor scRNA analysis relies on clustering cells and annotating with markers from experts. Subsequent challenges include inconsistent cell type and state definition, different marker usage among studies, and that clustering doesn’t find continuous cell states. We developed a data-driven framework, MetaTiME, to overcome the limitations in resolution and consistency that result from manual labeling using known gene markers. Using millions of TME single cells, MetaTiME learns meta-components that encode independent components of gene expression observed across cancer types. The meta-components are biologically interpretable as cell types, cell states, and signaling activities. For example, the T cell co-signaling meta-component reflects co-expressed gene modules of multiple immune checkpoint blockade targets. Also, the tumor-infiltrating macrophage meta-components found macrophage states in different metabolism preferences, rather than the pro-inflammatory versus anti-inflammatory classifications. We also observed certain macrophage states associated with tumor prognosis and cancer immunotherapy response. By projecting onto the MetaTiME space, we provide a tool to annotate cell states and signature continuums for TME scRNA-seq data. Lastly, leveraging epigenetics data, MetaTiME reveals critical transcriptional regulators for the cell states. Overall, MetaTiME learns data-driven meta-components that depict cellular states and gene regulators for tumor immunity and cancer immunotherapy.

Citation Format: Yi Zhang, Guanjue Xiang, Yijia Alva Jiang, Allen Lynch, Zexian Zeng, Chenfei Wang, Wubing Zhang, Jingyu Fan, Jiajinlong Kang, Shengqing Gu, Changxin Wan, Boning Zhang, Shirley Liu, Myles Brown, Clifford Meyer. MetaTiME: meta-components of the tumor immune microenvironment [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy; 2022 Oct 21-24; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2022;10(12 Suppl):Abstract nr B65.
Abstract IA16: The complexities of tumor associated macrophages and the key to effective targeting for anti-cancer therapy
Authors: Guerriero Jennifer L
Published: December 2022

Macrophages are an innate immune cell that play a critical role in host defense and maintaining tissue homeostasis, however their infiltration into tumors has been associated with disease progression and resistance to therapy. Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) represent a significant proportion of solid tumors, including breast cancer. TAMs play a major role in tumorigenesis as they can enhance tumor cell growth, angiogenesis and metastasis. In addition, TAMs can inhibit anti-tumor responses of T cells. Our recent work has shown that removal or conversion of TAMs to an anti-tumor phenotype enhances chemo- and immuno-therapy establishing TAMs as targets for anti-cancer therapy. We recently revealed that a Class II HDAC inhibitor can polarize TAMs to an anti-tumor phenotype to facilitate reduction in primary and metastatic tumor burden. In addition, we have found that some types of therapy such as poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibition (PARPi) can drive development of highly suppressive TAMs, restricting anti-tumor T cell function and survival. Murine models demonstrate that in the absence of TAMs, PARPi induce a robust recruitment of cytotoxic T cells and durable antitumor responses. Therefore, targeting TAMs is a promising strategy for improving PARPi treatment efficacy. However, while there is an urgent need to target TAMs during tumorigenesis and cancer therapy, to date, failure to fully characterize TAM biology and classify multiple subsets has hindered advancement in therapeutic targeting. Deep analysis of TAMs in solid tumors has revealed the complexity of TAMs and revealed major gaps in our knowledge of the functional and phenotypic characterization of TAM subsets associated with cancer, before and after treatment. Here we will discuss the complexity of TAMs in solid tumors including characterizing TAM subsets, location, and crosstalk with neighboring cells, as well as novel TAM-modulating strategies and combinations that are likely to enhance current therapies and overcome chemo- and immuno-therapy resistance.

Citation Format: Jennifer L Guerriero. The complexities of tumor associated macrophages and the key to effective targeting for anti-cancer therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy; 2022 Oct 21-24; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2022;10(12 Suppl):Abstract nr IA16.
Feasibility and Reaction Thresholds of Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Peanut and Nut Food Challenges Using Gingerbread Matrix
Authors: van de Vorst-van der Velde Kelly , Andela Pascalle , de Groot Hans , Verhoeven Dirk H.J.
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges are an important tool in diagnosing food allergies. PRACTALL recommends a dose-escalation schedule of 3–3,000 mg of food protein and a top dose of at least 2,000 mg to avoid false-negative results. This retrospective observational study tests the thresholds and feasibility using a previously published gingerbread matrix. Methods: Data of food provocations with peanuts and nuts in children from 2015 to 2019 in the Reinier de Graaf Hospital were analyzed. We performed the food challenge following a schedule of 1, 3, 10, 30, 100, 300, 1,000, and 3,000 mg allergen protein. The feasibility of ingestion of the gingerbread matrix was determined by analyzing the amount of consumed gingerbread. Results: 513 food challenges performed in 365 children (median age 6.9 years) were analyzed. Forty percent (204/513) of the food challenges were positive. Fifteen children already reacted at 1 mg protein (7%), 3 with a grade 3 reaction. The median cumulative amount of gingerbread matrix the children could eat on 1 day was 130.3 g. The median cumulative amount of allergen protein eaten was 2,585 mg; only 49% reached the minimum desired cumulative amount of 3,500 mg allergen protein. Despite that, there were no reported reactions at home in the 86% who introduced the allergen after a negative challenge. Conclusion: Seven percent of the children react on a starting dose of 1 mg of food protein. Therefore, when using the PRACTALL guidelines, early responders can be expected. Ingestion of a cumulative dose of 3,500 mg to reach a false-negative rate of maximum 5% is not feasible in most children using the gingerbread matrix. However, the cumulative dose may be reduced without increasing false-negative results, making challenges with the gingerbread matrix feasible for all age groups.
Novel Treatment Options in Metastatic Esophageal Carcinoma: Checkpoint Inhibitors in Combination Therapies
Authors: Casari Capucine , Novysedlak Rene , Vachtenheim Jr. Jiri , Lischke Robert , Strizova Zuzana
Published: December 2022

Background: Metastatic esophageal carcinoma (EC) has a poor prognosis and only limited treatment options. While immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have improved the treatment of a broad spectrum of cancers, patients with EC mostly fail to respond to this treatment. For that reason, it is crucial to understand the immune phenotype of each cancer patient and moreover, to understand how different therapies modulate the cancer microenvironment and sensitize the tumors to the treatment with ICIs. Summary: We have conducted a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the potential of ICI therapy in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or biologic therapy in EC patients. In our review, we have discussed the effects of diverse treatment approaches on the tumor microenvironment of EC. In addition, we have reviewed the current phase II and III clinical trials in EC patients to provide a rationale for immunotherapy application in combination settings with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or biologic therapy. Key Messages: A great effort is already underway in clinical trials evaluating the combinatorial administration of ICIs and other treatment modalities in metastatic EC patients. PD-L1 expression status was shown to be higher in the squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) as compared to adenocarcinoma. Thus, ICIs plus chemotherapy are being discussed as a particularly feasible option for patients with SCC. Radiation was shown to induce the expression of immune checkpoint molecules and to promote the priming and activation of cytotoxic T cells which provides a rationale for ICI administration in a combination with radiotherapy. The combination of ICIs with biologic therapy was shown to be safe; however, the impact on the clinical outcomes of EC patients varied among studies.
Fetal Endoscopic Tracheal Intubation: Modification of the Fetal Endoscopic Tracheal Intubation Procedure to Establish an Airway in a Fetus with a Congenital Cervical Teratoma
Authors: Flores Mendoza Homero , Campisi Paolo , Deshpande Poorva , Abbasi Nimrah , Van Mieghem Tim , Keunen Johannes , Ryan Greg
Published: December 2022

Introduction: FETI is a technique where the fetal airway is secured in-utero via intubation by percutaneous endoscopic fetal tracheoscopy under ultrasound guidance. FETI has been described in large fetal neck masses with anatomical airway compression as a feasible airway management strategy and a potential alternative to an EXIT procedure in select cases. Case Presentation: This report describes the use of a modified FETI procedure under continuous fetoscopic and ultrasound guidance, in a fetus with a large cervical teratoma causing airway displacement and compression. Following the FETI procedure, an uncomplicated caesarean section was performed. The endotracheal tube was in place at the time of birth, and a patent airway was confirmed. Conclusion: The modified FETI procedure described in this report represents another technique that can be used to establish an airway in fetuses with challenging upper airway anatomy, potentially mitigating the risks associated with an EXIT procedure.
“En Face” Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography versus Multifocal Electroretinogram in Hydroxychloroquine Retinopathy Screening
Authors: Mauget-Faÿsse Martine , Sukkarieh Georges , Jebrane Hajar , Lafolie Justine , Alonso Anne Sophie , Laumonier Elsa , Derrien Sabine , Le Guern Veronique , Behar Cohen Francine , Thevenin Sophie , Auge Emmanuel , Guillaume Jessica , Vasseur Vivien , Costedoat-Chalumean Nathalie
Published: December 2022

Introduction: The performance of “en face” optical coherence tomography (OCT) in screening for chloroquine (CQ) or hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinopathy has not been largely explored. The aim of this study was to determine the concordance of “en face” OCT with multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) in screening for CQ/HCQ retinopathy. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study conducted at the Rothschild Foundation Hospital, Paris, between August 2016 and February 2021. Patients taking HCQ were followed up over 2 consecutive years and received an “en face” OCT and a mfERG on each visit. Results: A total of 91 patients (182 eyes) were analyzed. mfERG and “en face” OCT were concordant in 147 eyes (86.3%). Cohen’s kappa coefficient for concordance between mfERG and “en face” OCT was considered weak with a value 0.61 (95% CI: 0.50–0.72). The sensitivity and specificity of “en face” OCT were 70% (95% CI: 59–79%) and 91% (95% CI: 83–96%), respectively, relatively to mfERG. Proportion of abnormal R2/R5 and R3/R5 ratios did not differ between patients with normal and abnormal “en face” OCT (p = 0.2). Discussion: “En face” OCT and mfERG have low concordance and cannot be used interchangeably as each investigation evaluates a different facet of CQ/HCQ retinopathy. “En face” OCT could be used as a complement in screening for CQ/HCQ retinal toxicity if the anomalies detected on “en face” OCT are confirmed by B-scan OCT sections.
Broad Antiviral Spectrum of Glycyrrhizic Acid for Human and Veterinary Medicine: Reality or Fiction?
Authors: García-Salazar Gilberto , Urbán-Morlán Zaida , Mendoza-Elvira Susana , Quintanar-Guerrero David , Mendoza Sandra
Published: December 2022

Background: Emerging virus infections provoke health problems in people and animals, which generate social and economic issues worldwide. This has spurred the search for new pharmacological strategies to confront them. Summary: The purpose of this review is to draw the reader’s attention to pharmacological evaluations of glycyrrhizic acid (GA) and its analogs on the broad range of viruses known in human and veterinary medicine. GA is the main water-soluble constituent extracted from the roots of plants from the genus Glycyrrhiza, commonly known as licorice root. It has long been used due to its broad spectrum of bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, and antitumor properties. It has also been proposed as an antiviral agent. Medicines derived from GA are currently being used to combat acute and chronic hepatitis and herpes viruses. Key Messages: This review suggests that GA could be a new broad-spectrum antiviral due to its ability to inhibit DNA or RNA viruses both in vitro and in vivo. GA could be a potential drug for preventing and/or treating various viral diseases.
The Prevalence and Factors That Impact Frailty in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Hospitalized in a Tertiary Hospital in China
Authors: You Lili , Bai Chenxiao , Wang Siyao , Yu Xiang , Wang Tiantian , Lu Min , Tan Chuyi , Guan Yuxia
Published: December 2022

Background: The prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is rapidly increasing in China. Beyond disease management, frailty is an important predictor of adverse outcomes in IBD patients, which has not been well investigated. This study aimed to assess frailty status and explore the impact factors in IBD inpatients. Methods: A total of 372 IBD inpatients were recruited from July 2021 to November 2021 at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. All the participants were surveyed by face-to-face questionnaires, including demographic characteristics, disease conditions, lifestyle, psychology, social support, and frailty. The impact factors of frailty were further assessed by multinomial logistic regression analysis. Results: The participants’ median age was 31.00 (Q1: 24.00, Q3: 40.00) years. The overall prevalence of prefrailty and frailty in IBD patients was 59.4% (n = 221) and 14% (n = 52), respectively, and was higher for frailty in females (17.2%) than in males (12.3%). Increased body mass index (odds ratio (OR) 0.917; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.860–0.978), increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (OR 1.039; 95% CI: 1.002–1.077), sleep impairment (OR 5.160; 95% CI: 2.394–11.119), and depression (OR 9.480; 95% CI: 3.602–24.949) were independently significantly correlated with prefrailty (p < 0.05). Increased body mass index (OR 0.744; 95% CI: 0.654–0.848), increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (OR 1.052; 95% CI: 1.011–1.096), sleep impairment (OR 5.832; 95% CI: 2.092–16.260), and depression (OR 10.041; 95% CI: 2.740–36.793) were independently significantly correlated with frailty. Among the factors, whether for frailty or prefrailty, the strongest impact factor was depression. Conclusions: IBD inpatients are prone to frailty. Comprehensive management focused on the prevention of frailty is warranted to improve the overall prognosis.
Prevalence of anemia among Indigenous children in Latin America: a systematic review
Authors: Rosas-Jiménez Carlos , Tercan Engin , Horstick Olaf , Igboegwu Ekeoma , Dambach Peter , Louis Valérie R. , Winkler Volker , Deckert Andreas
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence pattern of anemia among Indigenous children in Latin America. METHODS: PRISMA guidelines were followed. Records were identified from the databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and LILACS by two independent researchers between May and June 2021. Studies were included if the following criteria were met: a) studied Indigenous people b) was about children (from 0 to 12 years old); c) reported a prevalence estimate of anemia; d) had been conducted in any of the countries of Latin America; e) was published either in English, Portuguese, or Spanish; f) is a peer-reviewed article; and g) was published at any date. RESULTS: Out of 2,401 unique records retrieved, 42 articles met the inclusion criteria. A total of 39 different Indigenous communities were analyzed in the articles, and in 21 of them (54.0%) child anemia was a severe public health problem (prevalence ≥ 40%). Those communities were the Aymara (Bolivia); Aruak, Guaraní, Kamaiurá, Karapotó, Karibe, Kaxinanuá, Ma-cro-Jê, Suruí, Terena, Xavante (Brazil); Cabécar (Costa Rica), Achuar, Aguaruna, Awajún, Urarina, Yomybato (Peru); Piaroa and Yucpa (Venezuela); and Quechua (Peru and Bolivia). Children below two years had the highest prevalence of anemia (between 16.2% and 86.1%). Among Indigenous people, risk factors for anemia include nutrition, poor living conditions, access to health services, racism, and discrimination. Bolivia and Guatemala are scarcely studied, despite having the highest proportion of Indigenous communities in Latin America. CONCLUSIONS: Anemia constitutes a poorly documented public health problem among Indigenous children in 21 Indigenous communities in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, and Peru. In all Indigenous communities included in this study child anemia was an issue, especially in younger children.
Intracranial Carotid Arteriosclerosis Mediates the Association Between Blood Pressure and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Melgarejo Jesus D. , Vernooij Meike W. , Ikram M. Arfan , Zhang Zhen-Yu , Bos Daniel
Published: December 2022

Background:

Intracranial arteriosclerosis could explain the association between blood pressure (BP) and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). Therefore, we tested whether intracranial carotid artery calcification (ICAC) mediates the association between BP and CSVD and determined pathophysiological mechanisms based on ICAC subtypes.

Methods:

One thousand four hundred fifty-eight stroke-free participants from the Rotterdam Study (mean age, 68 years; 52% women) underwent nonenhanced computed tomography scans to quantify ICAC volume (mm
3
) between 2003 and 2015. ICAC was categorized into intimal and internal elastic lamina calcifications. CSVD included white matter hyperintensities volume, the presence of lacunes, and cerebral microbleeds visualized on magnetic resonance imaging. Office BP included systolic BP, diastolic BP, pulse pressure, and mean arterial pressure. Mediation analysis included a 2-way decomposition to determine the direct association between BP and CSVD and the indirect or mediated effect (negative or positive mediations expressed in %) of log-ICAC volume on such association.

Results:

BP and log-ICAC were correlated and were also associated with CSVD. In all participants, total log-ICAC volume mediated the association of diastolic BP (−14.5%) and pulse pressure (16.5%) with log-white matter hyperintensities. Internal elastic lamina log-ICAC volume mediated −19.5% of the association between diastolic BP and log-white matter hyperintensities; intimal log-ICAC volume did not mediate associations. For lacunes, total and internal elastic lamina log-ICAC volume mediated the association of diastolic BP (−40% and −45.8%) and pulse pressure (26.9% and 18.2%). We did not observe mediations for cerebral microbleeds.

Conclusions:

Intracranial arteriosclerosis mediates the association between BP and CSVD. Internal elastic lamina calcification, considered a proxy of arterial stiffness, is the leading mechanism explaining the link between BP and CSVD.
The debts owed by the Castilian court to an emigrant painter: Michel Sittow’s sojourns in Castile (1492-1502/1504)
Authors: Rojewski Oskar J.
Published: December 2022

This article focuses on two recently discovered documents from Spanish archives in Simancas and Zaragoza, which show a record of the relationship between the painter Michel Sittow (c. 1468-1525/6) and several members of the court of Isabella of Castile between 1492 and 1502. Further, it puts into context several formerly published documents that indicate significant debts were owed to the painter and give us clues about his artworks from 1494, as well as a visit he took to Zaragoza in 1498: one on Michel Sittow’s stay in Castile; an account of Fernando Gomes de Éçija from 1494; a notarial deed from Zaragoza dating from 1498; a list of court salaries, also from 1498; and an alphabetical list of court debts from 1497-1498.

Additionally, reconsideration is given to the period Sittow spent at the court of the Spanish king as both an artist and a courtier. Apparently, he had left the court because the full salary he was due was not transferred. Based on the newly discovered documents, the artist may have left in 1502, electing to serve Philip the Fair between 1502 and 1504. It is also now possible to identify 1494 as the year when the painter worked on the Santiago altarpiece in Toledo.

Only in 1515 did Sittow return to the Iberian Peninsula to collect the remaining sum, authorized by Charles V’s treasurer, Alonso de Arguello. The required amount was paid to him over the course of a year. Despite several uncertainties regarding his life and artistic practice, Michel Sittow’s career provides a significant insight into royal commissioning practices and the impact of fickle financial administration.
The Son of Man in the Similitudes of Enoch and 4 Ezra
Authors: Hong Soonyoung David
Published: December 2022

The Synoptic tradition, 4 Ezra, and Similitudes of Enoch all feature the Son of Man as a human yet divine eschatological judge, which is an innovative reinterpretation of the Danielic Son of Man. The question then becomes, who began this innovation? Given the generally monotheistic milieu of first-century Palestinian Judaism, the Synoptic tradition is most likely the source of this innovation. Why, however, would the Jewish/Jewish-Christian authors of 4 Ezra and Similitudes have taken their cue from the Synoptics in regards to this innovation? This article conjectures the possibility that Jesus’s own designation of the fall of the Jerusalem Temple as the beginning of the eschatological schema, at the end of which the Son of Man comes as an eschatological judge, may have inspired the authors of 4 Ezra and Similitudes for such adaptation of the Son of Man in the aftermath of the fall of the Temple.
Truth or Faithfulness?
Authors: Hallstrom Tyler
Published: December 2022

This article explores the semantic value of ἀλήθεια in Ephesians with special attention given to its polyvalent nature and its potentiality for communicating the notion of ‘faithfulness’ rather than ‘truth’. First, an examination of instances of where ἀλήθεια indicates faithfulness in the LXX and the NT provides a broad hermeneutical viability for this enterprise. Second, a study of ἀλήθεια in Eph. 1:13; 4:21, 24, 25; 5:9; and 6:14 reveals a semantic shift in 5:9 and 6:14 wherein the author’s exhortation centers not on doctrinal truth, but embodying faithfulness as a child of the light and as a defense against the Devil’s schemes.
Revision of Dimelaena Norman (Caliciaceae, Ascomycota) species containing usnic acid reveals a new species and a new combination from China
Authors: AI MIN , ZHONG QIUYI , SCHEIDEGGER CHRISTOPH , WANG LISONG , WANG XINYU
Published: December 2022

Dimelaena tibetica is described as a species new to science, characterized by a grayish yellow surface, usually with a covering of white pruina, a crustose thallus, areolate at center, radiate-plicate at margin, adnate apothecia and lacking gyrophoric acid. It differs from other usnic acid-containing Dimelaena species by its plane marginal lobes and adnate apothecia. Based on the study of fresh specimens from the environment of the type locality, Dimelaena altissima is proposed as a new combination. A fresh specimen of Dimelaena oreina (type species of the genus Dimelaena) was collected in the Swiss Alps, in the vicinity of the area where the type material of the species presumably was collected, and a sequence was generated to confirm the phylogenetic position of this genus. All three species share common characters: usnic acid content and a yellowish green upper surface. Descriptions of these species were based on a combination of morphological and phylogenetic analyses. A key and phylogram are provided for these three Dimelaena species which produce usnic acid.
A new Hedysarum L. species (Fabaceae) from Türkiye, Hedysarum dazkiriense
Authors: AYTAÇ ZEKİ , ERTUĞRUL TUĞBA , ERST ANDREY , FİŞNE AHTER
Published: December 2022

A new species, Hedysarum dazkiriense, in the genus Hedysarum (Fabaceae) was described and illustrated here and is only known from Dazkırı district in Afyonkarahisar Province in Türkiye. The species belongs to sect. Multicaulia and it is closely related to H. syriacum, but it is distinguished from it by having 5–8 pairs and smaller leaflets (3–7 × 1–2 mm, not 4–6 pairs and 15–22 × 5–12 mm); calyx 2–3 mm long (not 8–9 mm), standard 14–16 mm long (not 18–22 (–24) mm). Also, it is similar to H. pestalozzae, but distinctly different from it by having smaller leaflets (3–7 × 1–2 mm, not 5–14 × 2.5–4 mm), smaller calyx (2–3 mm long not 4–6 mm), lomentum sparsely hirsute and without setae (not densely tomentose, with or without setae). Taxonomic descriptions, images, the identification key, phenology, palinology and the IUCN threat category of the new species were presented. In addition, the geographical distribution of H. dazkiriense, H. syriacum and H. pestalozzae were mapped.
Characteristics of a Seasonal Front in the Southern Bay of Bengal: Dynamics, Mixing, and Water Mass Transport
Authors: Luecke C. A. , Wijesekera H. W. , Jarosz E. , Wang D. W. , Jensen T. G. , Jinadasa S. U. P. , Fernando H. J. S. , Teague W. J.
Published: December 2022

The formation of a sharp oceanic front located south-southeast of Sri Lanka during the southwest monsoon is examined through in situ and remote observations and high-resolution model output. Remote sensing and model output reveal that the front extends approximately 200 km eastward from the southeast coast of Sri Lanka toward the southern Bay of Bengal (BoB). This annually occurring front is associated with the boundary between the southwest monsoon current with high-salinity water to the south, and a weak flow field comprised of relatively fresh BoB water to the north. The front contains a line of high chlorophyll extending from the coastal upwelling zone, often for several hundred kilometers. Elevated turbulent diffusivities ∼10−2 m2 s−1 along with large diapycnal fluxes of heat and salt were found within the front. The formation of the front and vertical transports are linked to local wind stress curl. Large vertical velocities (∼50 m day−1) indicate the importance of ageostrophic, submesoscale processes. To examine these processes, the Ertel potential vorticity (PV) was computed using the observations and numerical model output. The model output shows a ribbon of negative PV along the front between the coastal upwelling zone and two eddies (Sri Lanka Dome and an anticyclonic eddy) typically found in the southern BoB. PV estimates support the view that the flow is susceptible to submesoscale instabilities, which in turn generate high vertical velocities within the front. Frontal upwelling and heightened mixing show that the seasonal front is regionally important to linking the fresh surface water of the BoB with the Arabian Sea.

Significance Statement

Within the ocean, motions span extraordinarily wide ranges of sizes and time scales. In this study we focus on a narrow, intensified feature called a front. This front occurs in the southern Bay of Bengal during the summer monsoon and forms a boundary between fresher water to the north and saltier water to the south. Features such as this are difficult to study, however, by combining observations made from ships and satellites with output from numerical models of the ocean, we are able to better understand the front. This is important because fronts like the one studied here play a role in determining the pathways of heat within the ocean, which, in turn, may feedback into the atmosphere and weather patterns.
Effects of a sexuality education programme on young people’s STI/HIV knowledge, attitudes and risk behaviour in Northeast Nigeria
Authors: Yohanna Wamanyi , Agbaje Olaoluwa Samson , Ene Osmond Chukwuemeka , Ofili Perpetua Chinyere , Umoke Prince Iheanachor Christian
Published: December 2022

Objective:

The high prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among Nigerian young people has been linked to poor knowledge, attitudes and risk behaviour. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a sexuality education programme (SEP) in improving adolescents’ STI/HIV knowledge and attitudes and reducing risk behaviour.

Design:

A quasi-experimental pre–post study was conducted. The experimental group ( n = 189) and comparison group ( n = 195) comprised senior secondary school students. Data were collected via a validated self-report questionnaire. A paired t-test, an independent t-test and a one-way between-group analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were used to analyse the data.

Setting:

Three hundred eighty-four young people aged 15–20 years at low and high risk for STI/HIV infection participated in the SEP in a school setting in Northeast Nigeria.

Results:

There were significant post-intervention improvements in students’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in the experimental group ( p < .001). A t-test showed that after the SEP, the mean scores of STI/HIV knowledge (11.25 ± 3.39 vs 8.23 ± 3.60) and attitudes (29.63 ± 6.21 vs 35.38 ± 7.86) were significantly higher in the experimental group than that in the control group. Similarly, the mean risk behaviour score (6.83 ± 2.10 vs 5.64 ± 2.27) was higher in the experimental group than that in the control group post-intervention.

Conclusion:

The school-based SEP increases STI/HIV knowledge, improves positive attitudes and reduces STI/HIV risk behaviour among school young people in Nigeria.
Effect of Arsenic on Health: Evidence from Indian Districts
Authors: Aggarwal Khushboo
Published: December 2022

It is well established that consuming groundwater contaminated with arsenic can lead to diseases of the heart, blood vessels, peripheral nervous systems and skin diseases such as pigmentation change. In this article, I focus on two health outcomes—skin diseases and still births—using district-level data from India, a country with widespread arsenic contamination. Arsenic may come into human contact via direct and/or indirect channel. I intend to examine these two channels of arsenic transmission. To analyse the two-fold objectives of this study, I have used repeated cross-section data from the two health rounds of National Sample Survey Organization (60th and 71st round survey). I find a positive and statistically significant relation between skin diseases and drinking water from arsenic contaminated tube well. Similar results are found for still birth in arsenic affected areas, even after controlling for state- and district-level factors. Using odds ratio, I also find positive effect of rice consumption on skin manifestations, robust to state-fixed effects, but not district-fixed effects. Individuals are more adversely affected in terms of skin lesions and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Drinking arsenic contaminated water is a more dominant pathway than consumption of food containing arsenic, particularly rice and wheat.

JEL Codes: I10, I12, Q25, Q53, Q54
How Does the Zambian Media Report China? Examining Episodic and Thematic Frames in the Zambian Newsrooms
Authors: Gondwe Gregory
Published: December 2022

This study examined Chinese news content in the Zambian media, classified as government, commercial, Community, and religiously owned. The purpose was to investigate how each media category frames stories about China (either as episodic or thematic) and the implications of such frames. By analyzing 1321 news items published between 2012 and 2020, we were able to show that in all the four media categories, stories about China mainly were routine/ready-made and culled from Chinese-owned organizations. Second, China’s dominance continued to grow over time as the reporting shifted from being treated as an object to the story’s subject. As a result, the majority of stories were episodic and positively framed in favor of China. When China was presented negatively, the frames were thematic, yet China still held a “subject” position in the narrative. In this view, negative cases mentioning China were attributed to individuals.
Personal Names, Naming and Identity (Re)negotiation among Zimbabweans in the Diaspora
Authors: Mangena Tendai
Published: December 2022

This article discusses how Zimbabweans in the diaspora name their children to think through the dynamics of diasporic identity negotiation. Using qualitative data gathered through virtual ethnography, I grapple with the question how names and naming strategies allow Zimbabweans in the diaspora to imagine and negotiate what it means to belong to home and being in the diaspora. I make two conclusions from this study. First, I argue that there is a tendency among first-generation Zimbabweans in the diaspora to name children in ways that are symbolic of how they remain attached to their homeland’s ways of knowing the world. Second, I observe that others negotiate the balance between retaining their naming cultures and working towards the integration of their children into host cultures. This they do through a bestowal of names that highlight the children’s intercultural and hyphenated identities – that is, a simultaneous connection to homeland and host country.
Asthma control in normal weight and overweight/obese asthmatic children following adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Josephson Gary D , Bradshaw Joshua B , Roohani Cheyenne , Hossain Jobayer , Andreoli Steven M , Lang Jason E
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Childhood adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) frequently occurs concomitant with asthma. Adenotonsillectomy and reduction in asthma severity association has been reported. We describe changes in asthma control in nonobese or normal weight and obese/overweight children undergoing adenotonsillectomy for SDB.

Methods

This prospective, nonrandomized cohort trial with 6-month follow-up at a tertiary children’s hospital enrolled 41 children with persistent asthma undergoing adenotonsillectomy for SDB. Children with significant chronic medical conditions, premature birth (< 28 weeks), or recent respiratory infection were excluded. Patients were stratified by baseline BMI into nonobese or normal weight (BMI < 85 percentile) and obese/overweight (BMI > 85%). The primary outcome was change in Childhood Asthma Control Test (cACT) scores 3 and 6 months following adenotonsillectomy. Secondary outcome examined improvement in Pediatric Asthma Caregiver’s Quality of Life Questionnaire (PACQLQ) 3 and 6 months following adenotonsillectomy.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar except for anthropometric measures and mean PACQLQ ( P = .03). Children with nonobese or normal weight (n = 26) had statistically significant improvement in change in cACT at 3 (22.80 ± 2.33 vs. 17.86 ± 3.53, P < .001) and 6 (20.71±3.29 vs. 18.24 ± 4.16, P = .044) months compared with baseline. PACQLQ scores also improved at 3 (6.20 ± 0.87 vs. 4.56 ± 1.12, P < .001) and 6 (6.36 ± 0.72 vs. 4.93 ± 0.96, P < .001) months. Obese/overweight children (n = 10) had significant improvement in cACT scores at 6 months (20.00 ± 3.90 vs. 15.00 ± 6.90, P = .048). Change of cACT scores at 3 months (17.86 ± 3.53 vs. 14.86 ± 6.31, P = .272) was not significantly different. PACQLQ scores improved at 3 (5.47 ± 1.09 vs. 3.70 ± 0.85, P < .001) and 6 (5.75 ± 2.19 vs. 3.67 ± 1.04, P = .016) months.

Conclusion

Nonobese or normal-weight children undergoing adenotonsillectomy demonstrated significant improvement in asthma control scores at 3 and 6 and obese/overweight children at 6 months. Using the PACQLQ, caregiver quality of life improved for all children at 3 and 6 months. Surgical management of ATH in children with comorbid SBD and asthma is a good treatment option.
Note on Du ‘temps’: Elements for a Philosophy of Living
Authors: Ricœur Paul
Published: December 2022

The author probes Jullien on the problem of time, which is at the heart of European philosophy, while allowing himself to embrace an intelligibility of the ‘infra-philosophical’ leading to a ‘living in philosophy’. The question is both intriguing and rewarding: ‘what the Chinese have thought because they have not thought time’. Yet the author wonders: does Jullien pay more attention to the Greeks than to the Hebrews vis-à-vis China with regard to the concept of time? Jullien’s text on time of course is a piece in a much larger set of texts that bring to the fore questions of life; the author offers, with generosity, much broader thoughts on the possibility of Jullien speaking French while thinking Chinese, and the enigma of living (say in Augustine and Montaigne) within a philosophy of transcendence in the West as opposed to the immanence of philosophy of living in China.
A mixed-methods study into the effect of a psycho-educational programme for children with cerebral visual impairment (CVI)
Authors: Overbeek Mathilde M , Stokla-Wulfse Mariska , Lievense Pieternel , Kruithof Yvonne , Pilon Florine , Kef Sabina
Published: December 2022

Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is one of the most common causes of visual impairment in children. CVI is a complex visual disorder to understand and explain to others. Understanding one’s diagnosis and being able to explain it to others may facilitate adaptive functioning. To educate children and young people on their CVI and accompanying needs, the computerized psycho-educational programme ‘My CVI’ has been developed.

A mixed-methods study was conducted to evaluate the effect of this programme. The aims of the programme are to increase participants’ knowledge of CVI, as well as self-esteem (SDQ), adaptive coping (SCQ), and well-being (Cantril, PERIK, HRQoL). Thirty-nine children (aged 7–16 years; 51% boys) participated in a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessment. Qualitative interviews were conducted for a subjective evaluation of the programme.

Participation in the psycho-educational programme resulted in increased knowledge of CVI, as well as a better teacher-reported social and academic self-concept and less self-reported feelings of social exclusion. No effects of participation were found on self-reported self-esteem, coping or other measures for well-being. An increase in knowledge of CVI was not associated with changes in psychosocial functioning. Qualitative data revealed that children enjoyed participating in the programme; they learned there are others with CVI, and gained more knowledge and practical tools on how to deal with their CVI.

The results provide preliminary evidence that participation in the psycho-educational programme ‘My CVI’ increases children’s knowledge of their visual impairment as well as improves social outcomes and feelings of inclusion. The highest gains may be achieved through a personalized approach, depending on a child’s (developmental) age and parental involvement.
When one partner can no longer see: Exploring the lived experiences of romantic partners in the context of vision loss
Authors: Bertrand Romain , Vrkljan Brenda , Kühne Nicolas , Charvoz Linda , Fournier Jennifer , Masse Manon , Veyre Aline , Vuillerme Nicolas
Published: December 2022

This qualitative descriptive study aims to explore the lived experience of the adjustment process of couples who face vision loss, investigating the impact of such loss on daily life and the adjustments and adaptations that ensue. To undertake such an exploration, the application of an occupational perspective is relevant where the meaning and purpose partners ascribe to their everyday activities can be investigated. A total of 16 couples living in Western Switzerland were interviewed between January and June 2020. Data collection was carried out with semi-structured face-to-face interview. Three themes emerge from the thematic analysis of transcripts. The first theme emphasizes that either separate or joint everyday activities of partners can be shared within couples, which all give sense to the partnership; the second one shows that vision loss disrupts the engagement of partners in such shared everyday activities. The third theme highlights partners’ efforts to reshape their engagement in their shared everyday activities in order to maintain a sense of couple’s we-ness. While navigating vision loss requires both partners to jointly engage in this process of reshaping, couples described tension that arises because of the partners with vision loss’ growing dependence on the other partner. One’s sense of control when navigating vision loss is critical to adjust to a changing and changed daily life. Further research is needed that focuses on how romantic partners ascribe a shared meaning and purpose to their engagement in everyday activities, separate or joint, and how such meaning and purpose are impacted by the onset or aggravation of one partner’s vision loss.
A qualitative investigation of influences on occupational therapists’ research involvement in Ireland
Authors: Dwyer Christopher P , Keane Alexandra , Casey Dympna , Rogers Fionnuala M , Hynes Sinéad M
Published: December 2022

Background:

To fulfil the desire for evidence-based practice, there is impetus for occupational therapy (OT) to make research a priority and to encourage research engagement.

Purpose:

This study’s aim was to explore occupational therapists’ reasons for and for not getting involved in research and to determine potential barriers and enablers to engaging in research.

Methods:

Three focus groups were conducted with five participants each. Data were thematically analysed.

Findings:

Occupational therapists’ reasons for expressing interest in getting involved in research were having an interest in the condition and/or the symptoms being studied; promoting client support and service development; and ‘upskilling’. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (1) motivation to get involved in research can be influenced; (2) ‘firefighting’: barriers and organisational culture; and (3) The nature of research needs consideration from an occupational therapist perspective.

Implications:

Findings suggest that though occupational therapists are able to get involved in research, it remains that there are difficulties in doing so (e.g., organisational culture); and such difficulties may outweigh both reasons and enablers to such involvement. Reasons for expressing interest, enablers, barriers and the relationships among them warrant further investigation and consideration with respect to involving occupational therapists in research.
De-Prescribing Inhaled Corticosteroids in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Schroeder Michelle N. , Sens Hailee M. , Shah Shaina K.
Published: December 2022

Objective: Combination therapy, including inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), is often prescribed as initial treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) despite limited evidence that ICS therapy is beneficial. Prescribing rates exceed the estimated number of candidates diagnosed with COPD who are eligible for ICS treatment per guideline-directed therapy. Therefore, some patients would benefit from ICS withdrawal due to potentially inappropriate prescribing. This review aims to highlight evidence evaluating ICS withdrawal approaches in COPD. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed between June 2021 and March 2022 with assistance from a reference librarian. Sources of literature review include PubMed and Embase. The authors selected randomized controlled trials and articles evaluating ICS withdrawal approaches in patients with COPD. Three clinical trials and one post-hoc analysis are discussed in this review. Pertinent safety, efficacy, and statistical and clinical outcomes are summarized. Conclusions: The most appropriate approach to de-prescribe ICS maintenance therapy in COPD without clear indication remains uncertain. Pharmacists can play a role in optimizing clinical outcomes by analyzing ICS use in practice and identifying potential candidates for ICS withdrawal. The withdrawal protocols discussed in this review offer options for clinicians to help guide therapy decisions.
The visualization of public information: Describing the use of narrative infographics by U.S. municipal governments
Authors: Dailey Stephanie , Gilmore Briana , Rangarajan Nandhini
Published: December 2022

Narrative infographics present information in a visual, easy-to-understand format and are organized such that the information conveys a story. Public administrators are increasingly using narrative infographics to disseminate information, yet research has yet to investigate exactly how this technological form of storytelling is being used. To fill this gap, we use narrative theory to guide our exploration to uncover how U.S. municipal governments are using narrative infographics. We analyzed 322 infographics using visual content analysis, coding each infographic by government function, policy area, usability factor, and narrative elements. Our research shows that narrative infographics are widely used at the municipal level, most notably for informing the public about various issues but more specifically for communicating information about planning, evaluation and risk. Public health and safety were most frequently addressed by municipal government infographics. Furthermore, we discuss implications of this research for public affairs research, education and practice.
Tocqueville and the Ostroms
Authors: Wilford Sarah J.
Published: December 2022

Although it is commonplace for political scientists to draw upon historical thinkers and the ‘great books’ of the past, the practice of using historical works as reference points for contemporary issues remains under-investigated. To address this practice, this article is positioned at the crossroads of social science and intellectual history. By examining the relationship of political economists Elinor and Vincent Ostrom with Alexis de Tocqueville, the article demonstrates some of the potential risks incurred by social scientists drawing on historical thinkers. After exploring the similarities between the Ostroms and Tocqueville, it identifies three key pitfalls of the Ostroms’ ‘Tocquevillian’ rhetoric. These pitfalls result in obscuring meaning and overlooking philosophical insights, both of which detract from the Ostroms’ project. Insights from the field of intellectual history are offered. A final section presents a key example of Vincent Ostrom overlooking Tocqueville's thought where Tocqueville's insights were directly applicable to his work. The article parses political science's relationship with the past and offers a critique that is applicable beyond Tocqueville and the Ostroms.