bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LRG-BEASTS: Sodium absorption and Rayleigh scattering in the atmosphere of WASP-94A b using NTT/EFOSC2
Authors: Ahrer E , Wheatley P J , Kirk J , Gandhi S , King G W , Louden T
Published: January 2022

We present an optical transmission spectrum for WASP-94A b, the first atmospheric characterization of this highly-inflated hot Jupiter. The planet has a reported radius of $1.72^{+0.06}_{-0.05}$ RJup, a mass of only $0.456^{+0.032}_{-0.036}$ MJup, and an equilibrium temperature of 1508 ± 75 K. We observed the planet transit spectroscopically with the EFOSC2 instrument on the ESO New Technology Telescope (NTT) at La Silla, Chile: the first use of NTT/EFOSC2 for transmission spectroscopy. We achieved an average transit-depth precision of 128 ppm for bin widths of ∼200 Å. This high precision was achieved in part by linking Gaussian Process hyperparameters across all wavelength bins. The resulting transmission spectrum, spanning a wavelength range of 3800–7140 Å, exhibits a sodium absorption with a significance of 4.9σ, suggesting a relatively cloud-free atmosphere. The sodium signal may be broadened, with a best-fitting width of $78_{-32}^{+67}$ Å in contrast to the instrumental resolution of 27.2 ± 0.2 Å. We also detect a steep slope in the blue end of the transmission spectrum, indicating the presence of Rayleigh scattering in the atmosphere of WASP-94A b. Retrieval models show evidence for the observed slope to be super-Rayleigh and potential causes are discussed. Finally, we find narrow absorption cores in the CaII H&K lines of WASP-94A, suggesting the star is enshrouded in gas escaping the hot Jupiter.
Clump survival and migration in VDI galaxies: an analytical model versus simulations and observations
Authors: Dekel Avishai , Mandelker Nir , Bournaud Frederic , Ceverino Daniel , Guo Yicheng , Primack Joel
Published: January 2022

We address the nature of the giant clumps in high-z galaxies that undergo violent disc instability, distinguishing between long-lived and short-lived clumps. We study the evolution of long-lived clumps during migration through the disc via an analytical model tested by simulations and confront theory with CANDELS-HST observations. The clump ‘bathtub’ model, which considers gas and stellar gain and loss, involves four parameters: the accretion efficiency α, the star formation rate (SFR) efficiency ϵd, and the outflow mass-loading factors for gas and stars, η and ηs. The corresponding time-scales are comparable to the migration time, two-three orbital times. The accretion-rate dependence on clump mass, gas, and stars, allows an analytical solution involving exponential growing and decaying modes. For the fiducial parameter values there is a main evolution phase where the SFR and gas mass are constant and the stellar mass is rising linearly with time. This makes the inverse specific SFR an observable proxy for clump age. When η or ϵd are high, or α is low, the decaying mode induces a decline of SFR and gas mass till the migration ends. Later, the masses and SFR approach an hypothetical exponential growth with a constant specific SFR. The model matches simulations with different, moderate feedbacks, both in isolated and cosmological settings. The observed clumps agree with our predictions, indicating that the massive clumps are long-lived and migrating. A challenge is to model feedback that is non-disruptive in massive clumps but suppresses SFR to match the galactic stellar-to-halo mass ratio.
Patient Experience and Hospital Environment Measures at Military Treatment Facilities
Authors: Grifka Amanda , Dorris Joseph , Marshall-Aiyelawo Kimberley , Gliner Melissa , Frazier Chantell
Published: January 2022

Goal:

We examined the relationship of nine hospital environment measures (room cleanliness, room quietness, food temperature, food variety, mattress comfort, room temperature, room privacy, hospital signage, adequate parking) to two patient outcome measures (likelihood of recommending hospital, overall satisfaction with hospital) by type of services received (medical, obstetric, surgical) at all military medical treatment facilities globally. Our aim was to understand the impact of various hospital environment measures on the patient experience.

Methods:

We analyzed six logistic regression models, one for each patient satisfaction measure and each service line (medical, obstetric, surgical). The patient characteristic variables were gender, patient age group, and beneficiary category (active duty, active duty family member, retiree, retiree dependents). Results are based on 20,534 completed surveys representing inpatient care delivered October 2019 to March 2020. Data are from the Military Health System TRICARE Inpatient Satisfaction Survey, which is based on the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey with additional Department of Defense questions.

Principal Findings:

Across all models, nearly all hospital environment measures were found to be significantly related to patient satisfaction outcomes, aside from food variety in two models and room privacy and temperature in one model. The strongest environment impact factor was room cleanliness for both outcomes with odds ratios ranging from 2.1 to 2.7, p < .01 in all cases. The order of impact for the other eight environment factors varied across service lines with some playing dominant roles dependent on the type of care being received. Significant odds ratios (p < .05) ranged from 1.3 to 2.0 for room quietness, 1.5 to 1.9 for hospital signage, 1.3 to 1.5 for both food variety and food temperature, 1.3 to 1.8 for mattress comfort, 1.3 to 1.6 for room temperature, and 1.3 to 1.8 for adequate parking. Hospital environment measures represented a breadth of the patient experience and were significantly related to a patient’s overall satisfaction and likelihood to recommend military inpatient facilities.

Applications to Practice:

Healthcare leaders continuously focus on improving the overall patient experience. Fostering a positive experience includes many factors such as provider and nurse interactions and communications with patients. Moreover, the hospital environment should not be overlooked as also having an impact on patient satisfaction, and hospital leaders—both military and civilian—should continue to emphasize hospital amenities as well.
A prospective cohort study of catheter-related thrombosis in cancer patients treated with 1 month of anticoagulation after catheter removal
Authors: Baumann Kreuziger Lisa , Feng Mingen , Bartosic Abigail , Simpson Pippa , Wang Tzu-Fei
Published: January 2022

The duration of anticoagulation in patients with catheter- related thrombosis (CRT) is not standardized. This is a multiinstitutional prospective pilot study in patients with cancer and upper extremity CRT. Patients received therapeutic enoxaparin for 1 month after catheter removal. Incidence of recurrent thrombosis, hemorrhage, and postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) using the modified Villalta scale, and functional limitation using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire were assessed at months 1, 3, and 6 after catheter removal. Clopper–Pearson exact 95% confidence intervals (CI), Pearson correlations, and Skillings-Mack, and Wilcoxon signed ranks tests were done. Twenty-seven patients from three institutions were enrolled. Feasibility outcomes were not met. Seventy percent (n = 19) of the cohort had hematologic malignancies. Excluding two patients who were still on enoxaparin at study withdrawal, the median total duration of therapeutic enoxaparin was 32 [interquartile range (IQR) 30–52] days in the remaining 25 patients. During the 6 months after catheter removal, the incidence of recurrent thrombosis was 0% (n = 0/20, 95% CI 0–17%) and major hemorrhage was 5% (n = 1/20, 95% CI 0.13–25%). One patient (5%, 95% CI 0.13–25%) had PTS in the affected arm at any visit, and none had severe PTS. Higher PTS scores were associated with higher DASH scores. DASH scores at month 6 were significantly lower compared with month 1 (P = 0.0066). No deaths occurred. A multicenter pilot study of treatment with anticoagulation for 1 month after catheter removal did not meet feasibility outcomes but we found no recurrent thrombosis and a low incidence of PTS.
The Dura Split Technique in the Treatment of Craniosynostosis: Is It Still an Option?
Authors: Ripatti Liisi , Blair Richard , Serlo Willy
Published: January 2022

Background:

The aim of this study was to report the outcome and the complications for patients operated on for craniosynostosis using the dura split technique. Specifically, the authors aimed to evaluate the safety of this technique, which is currently not in use, and to determine whether it is still useable.

Methods:

The data was collected from the hospital patient records of all children surgically treated for craniosynostosis using the dura split technique in Turku University Hospital during the period 1975 to 2015. The data was analyzed to determine the clinical and radiological outcomes of the surgical procedure, the need for reoperations, and the rate of complications.

Results:

During the study period, the dura split technique was used in the surgery of 65 patients. The outcome was either good or acceptable in most patients and reoperation was needed in only 2 patients (3.1%). Surgical complications included significant blood loss (26.2%), lesions on the inner layer of the dura (21.5%), leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (13.8%), and persistent bone defects (15.4% on palpation and 63.1% radiologically).

Conclusions:

Although the outcome of surgery for craniosynostosis using the dura split technique was mostly acceptable and the need for reoperations rare, the technique cannot, however, be recommended in the future due to high rates of bone defects, frequent problems with lesions on the inner layer of the dura, and consequent perioperative leakage of cerebrospinal fluid.
Real-world Effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 and Oxford-AstraZeneca ChAdOx1-S Vaccines Against SARS-CoV-2 in Solid Organ and Islet Transplant Recipients
Authors: Callaghan Chris J. , Mumford Lisa , Curtis Rebecca M. K. , Williams Sarah V. , Whitaker Heather , Andrews Nick , Lopez Bernal Jamie , Ushiro-Lumb Ines , Pettigrew Gavin J. , Thorburn Douglas , Forsythe John L. R. , Ravanan Rommel ,   on behalf of the NHSBT Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Clinical Team
Published: January 2022

Background.

The clinical effectiveness of vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in immunosuppressed solid organ and islet transplant (SOT) recipients is unclear.

Methods.

We linked 4 national registries to retrospectively identify laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections and deaths within 28 d in England between September 1, 2020, and August 31, 2021, comparing unvaccinated adult SOT recipients and those who had received 2 doses of ChAdOx1-S or BNT162b2 vaccine. Infection incidence rate ratios were adjusted for recipient demographics and calendar month using a negative binomial regression model, with 95% confidence intervals. Case fatality rate ratios were adjusted using a Cox proportional hazards model to generate hazard ratio (95% confidence interval).

Results.

On August 31, 2021, it was found that 3080 (7.1%) were unvaccinated, 1141 (2.6%) had 1 vaccine dose, and 39 260 (90.3%) had 2 vaccine doses. There were 4147 SARS-CoV-2 infections and 407 deaths (unadjusted case fatality rate 9.8%). The risk-adjusted infection incidence rate ratio was 1.29 (1.03-1.61), implying that vaccination was not associated with reduction in risk of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Overall, the hazard ratio for death within 28 d of SARS-CoV-2 infection was 0.80 (0.63-1.00), a 20% reduction in risk of death in vaccinated patients (P = 0.05). Two doses of ChAdOx1-S were associated with a significantly reduced risk of death (hazard ratio, 0.69; 0.52-0.92), whereas vaccination with BNT162b2 was not (0.97; 0.71-1.31).

Conclusions.

Vaccination of SOT recipients confers some protection against SARS-CoV-2–related mortality, but this protection is inferior to that achieved in the general population. SOT recipients require additional protective measures, including further vaccine doses, antiviral drugs, and nonpharmaceutical interventions.
The evolution of sexual dichromatism in a large radiation of landfowl: Re-examining female-biased selection in Wallace's model
Authors: Li Zheng , Chen De , Dong Lu
Published: January 2022

Sexual dichromatism is generally thought to arise from sexual selection favouring elaborately coloured males, as proposed in Darwin's model. Wallace offers an expanded perspective, emphasising that the evolution of cryptic and dim female colouration to evade nest predation significantly contributed to the origin of sexual dichromatism. However, previous studies on the evolutionary forces of sexual dichromatism examining Darwin's and Wallace's models have produced mixed results. Here, we re-examined Wallace's model of female-biased selection using the largest and most ecologically diverse family of landfowl (Phasianidae), known for its wide-ranging distribution and striking plumage patterns. Our results demonstrate that the level of sexual dichromatism is negatively correlated with colour contrasts in females but not males, and the evolutionary rates of sexual dichromatism are positively correlated with the evolutionary rates of colour contrasts in both sexes. Furthermore, we show that species with lower nest safety have significantly reduced female colour contrasts and sexual dichromatism, supporting Wallace's model by highlighting the role of nest predation in driving evolutionary changes in sexual dichromatism within the Phasianidae family.
Structural insights into an evolutionary turning-point of photosystem I from prokaryotes to eukaryotes
Authors: Kato Koji , Nagao Ryo , Ueno Yoshifumi , Yokono Makio , Suzuki Takehiro , Jiang Tian-Yi , Dohmae Naoshi , Akita Fusamichi , Akimoto Seiji , Miyazaki Naoyuki , Shen Jian-Ren
Published: January 2022

Photosystem I (PSI) contributes to light-conversion reactions; however, its oligomerization state is variable among photosynthetic organisms. Herein we present a 3.8-Å resolution cryo-electron microscopic structure of tetrameric PSI isolated from a glaucophyte alga Cyanophora paradoxa. The PSI tetramer is organized in a dimer of dimers form with a C2 symmetry. Different from cyanobacterial PSI tetramer, two of the four monomers are rotated around 90°, resulting in a totally different pattern of monomer-monomer interactions. Excitation-energy transfer among chlorophylls differs significantly between Cyanophora and cyanobacterial PSI tetramers. These structural and spectroscopic features reveal characteristic interactions and energy transfer in the Cyanophora PSI tetramer, thus offering an attractive idea for the changes of PSI from prokaryotes to eukaryotes.
Hbxip (Lamtor5) is essential for embryogenesis and regulates embryonic stem cell differentiation through activating mTORC1
Authors: Qin Yan , Ni Peiling , Zhang Qingye , Wang Xiao , Du Xiaoling , Yin Zixi , Wang Lingling , Ye Lihong , Chen Lingyi
Published: January 2022

Hbxip, also named Lamtor5, has been well characterized as a transcriptional coactivator in various cancers. However, the role of Hbxip in normal development remains unexplored. Here, we demonstrated that homozygous knockout of Hbxip leads to embryonic lethality, with retarded growth around E7.5. Using Hbxip knockout embryonic stem cells (ESCs), we showed that depletion of Hbxip compromises the self-renewal of ESCs, with reduced expression of pluripotency genes, reduced cell proliferation, and decreased colony forming capacity. In addition, Hbxip-/- ESCs are defective in differentiation, particularly ectodermal and mesodermal differentiation. Consistently, Hbxip-/- epiblast fails to differentiate properly, indicated by sustained expression of Oct4 in E8.5 Hbxip-/- epiblast. Mechanistically, in ESCs, Hbxip interacts with other components of the Ragulator complex, which is required for mTORC1 activation by amino acids. Importantly, ESCs depleted of Ragulator subunits, Lamtor3 or Lamtor4, display differentiation defects similar to those of Hbxip-/- ESCs. Moreover, Hbxip-/-, p14-/-, and p18-/- mice, lacking subunits of the Ragulator complex, also share similar phenotypes, embryonic lethality and retarded growth around E7-8. Thus, we conclude that Hbxip plays a pivotal role in the development and differentiation of the epiblast, as well as the self-renewal and differentiation of ESCs, through activating mTORC1 signaling.
A Scribble/Cdep/Rac pathway regulates follower cell crawling and cluster cohesion during collective border cell migration
Authors: Campanale Joseph P. , Mondo James A. , Montell Denise J.
Published: January 2022

Collective cell movements drive normal development and metastasis.Drosophilaborder cells move as a cluster of 6-10 cells, where the role of the Rac GTPase in migration was first established. Rac stimulates leading edge protrusions in most migratory cells. Upstream Rac regulators in leading border cell protrusions have been identified; however the regulation and function of Rac in follower cells is unknown. Here we show that Rac is required in all cells of the cluster and promotes follower cell motility. We identify a Rac guanine nucleotide exchange factor, Cdep, that also regulates follower cell movement and cluster cohesion. The tumor suppressors Scribble, Discs Large, and Lethal Giant Larva localize Cdep basolaterally and share phenotypes with Cdep. Relocalization of Cdep::GFP partially rescues Scrib knockdown, suggesting that Cdep is a major downstream effector of basolateral proteins. Thus, a Scrib/Cdep/Rac pathway promotes cell crawling and coordinated, collective migrationin vivo.
Fast and numerically stable Mie solution of EM near field and absorption for stratified spheres
Authors: Csernyava Olivér , Horváth Bálint Péter , Badics Zsolt , Bilicz Sándor
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the development of an analytic computational model for electromagnetic (EM) wave scattering from spherical objects. The main application field is the modeling of electrically large objects, where the standard numerical techniques require huge computational resources. An example is full-wave modeling of the human head in the millimeter-wave regime. Hence, an approximate model or analytical approach is used.

Design/methodology/approach

The Mie–Debye theorem is used for calculating the EM scattering from a layered dielectric sphere. The evaluation of the analytical expressions involved in the infinite sum has several numerical instabilities, which makes the precise calculation a challenge. The model is validated through an application example with comparing results to numerical calculations (finite element method). The human head model is used with the approximation of a two-layer sphere, where the brain tissues and the cranial bones are represented by homogeneous materials.

Findings

A significant improvement is introduced for the stable calculation of the Mie coefficients of a core–shell stratified sphere illuminated by a linearly polarized EM plane wave. Using this technique, a semi-analytical expression is derived for the power loss in the sphere resulting in quick and accurate calculations.

Originality/value

Two methods are introduced in this work with the main objective of estimating the final precision of the results. This is an important aspect for potentially unstable calculations, and the existing implementations have not included this feature so far.
The impact of cross-border knowledge management on internationalizing Renminbi: lessons from the belt and road initiative
Authors: Yu Bin , Liu Huimin , Cheng Huifang , Gao Peng
Published: January 2022

Purpose

In the process of Renminbi (RMB) internationalization, the heterogeneity and complexity in knowledge under the multicultural contexts have been considered as important factors that can have profound impacts on the cross-border flow of the RMB currency. Moreover, COVID-19, an exogenous shock, also triggers more in-depth reflection on the relationship between cross-border knowledge management and the financial risk governance. In addition, the needs to effectively respond to global risks and crises prompt the necessity in systematically establishing an effective cross-border knowledge management mechanism and innovatively solidifying the knowledge bases needed for the further internationalization of the RMB.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the analysis on the current status of the RMB internationalization, this paper qualitatively explores some major challenges and difficulties encountered in the process of RMB internationalization from the perspectives of knowledge management and cross-cultural theories. To effectively mitigate these challenges and difficulties, discussions and recommendations centered on three main aspects: cross-cultural management; cognition; and innovation for the further development of the RMB internationalization are also presented in this paper.

Findings

Based on the analysis on the cross-border knowledge management and cross-cultural perspectives, this paper identifies three major challenges and difficulties that the RMB internationalization is encountering, including: cultural heterogeneity and its adverse impacts on the communication amongst economic entities; the existence of knowledge iceberg; and the difficulty it presents to cognition and financial innovation. Meanwhile, the authors also present recommendations on the development of the cross-border knowledge management mechanism for furthering the progress of internationalizing the RMB currency.

Research limitations/implications

From the perspective of cross-border knowledge management, this study not only elaborates on the recommendations aimed at further promoting the RMB internationalization but also provides reference and guidance for the state, central banks and commercial banks to play better roles in furthering the RMB internationalization.

Originality/value

This paper creatively integrates the micro knowledge management into the macro process of RMB internationalization, thoroughly discusses two main challenges and difficulties encountered in the process of RMB internationalization from the unique perspective of cross-border knowledge management under the multicultural contexts and provides relevant recommendations for RMB’s further internationalization. This study also enriches the exploration of knowledge management outcome variables and further expands the research field of knowledge management.
School psychologists’ supporting American Indian students on the path to academic success: a community cultural wealth approach
Authors: Rogers Margaret R. , Churchill Erin D. , Shahid Mehwish , Davis Teressa O. , Mandojana-Ducot Crassandra
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study involves a content analysis of research published from 2000 to 2018 about American Indian students with the principal aim to identify investigations addressing the supportive factors that contribute to student academic success. Secondary aims involved better understanding the parameters of the investigations, such as sample tribal affiliations and journal outlets.

Design/methodology/approach

Out of 6,341 total articles published in PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO and Education Resources Information Center over the time period, 86 articles covering the pre-school to college age years were identified, almost evenly distributed between pre-college (n = 42, 48.8%); and college age samples (n = 44, 51.2%). The 86 articles account for a mere 1.4% of all published articles over the 19 year period. A community cultural wealth approach (Yosso, 2005) was used as a framework for understanding the myriad of strengths students bring to their school experiences and was used as a lens for interpreting the study findings.

Findings

When disaggregated, the most common supports for pre-college age youth were culturally-sensitive schooling, personal/intrinsic qualities along with family and social support. For college age students, the most common supports were university personnel, community-based supports and student intrinsic factors. Further results, study limitations and implications are discussed.

Originality/value

This research is original.
Cotton treatment with methyl jasmonate at different growth stages reduces the population of sucking insect pests and marginally increases their associated predators
Authors: Tonğa Adil , Şeker Kadri , Çakmak Suna , Temiz Mefhar Gültekin , Bayram Ahmet
Published: January 2022

Methyl jasmonate (MEJA), a volatile organic compound, can induce plant defenses, thereby contributing to repelling insect pests and attracting their natural enemies. In 2013 and 2014, the influence of three exogenous MEJA doses (0.88, 1.76, and 3.55 mM) under field conditions was investigated on the abundance of the cotton pests Thrips tabaci Lindeman (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), Empoasca decipiens Paoli (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), and Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae), as well as of the predators Coccinella septempunctata L. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), Aeolothrips intermedius Bagnall (Thysanoptera: Aeolothripidae), and Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae). The MEJA treatments were performed at three cotton plant growth stages: 6–8 true leaves‐early squaring, square bud, and boll forming. The abundances of A. gossypii, T. tabaci, and E. decipiens varied considerably among strata and growing seasons and between experimental years, but overall they were lower on MEJA‐treated cotton plants than on control plants. The population density of A. intermedius and C. septempunctata did not differ between MEJA‐treated and control plants, whereas the intermediate MEJA concentration had an attractive but inconsistent effect on C. carnea. Most of the insect pests and predators showed a preference for specific plant strata. The abundance of T. tabaci was higher in earlier plant growth stages, whereas A. gossypii and E. decipiens were more abundant in later growth stages. Our results demonstrate the deterrent effects of MEJA‐induced cotton plants on sucking pests and suggest that MEJA could be exploited as a non‐toxic pest management tool. Possible mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of MEJA‐mediated cotton plant responses to insect pests are discussed.
At the Edge of the Sensible: Cultivating Doubt in Radically Engaged Anthropology and Spirituality
Authors: Smith Aja
Published: January 2022

Transformative experiences have long been a central interest for anthropologists studying spiritual phenomena. During fieldwork, many ethnographers have themselves undergone such experiences, caused by and fueling their confidence in radical participation as the soundest approach to understanding spiritual phenomena. These anthropologists inadvertently find themselves faced with the question of the ontological status of such phenomena, responses to which range from embracing them as ontologically real to steering clear of judgment. Arguments pertaining to the authority of the anthropologist follow a similar path, belief either framed as a precondition for understanding such matters or as undermining analytical validity. This article outlines the third position. Based on radically engaged fieldwork conducted with people dedicated to spiritual and mindfulness–meditation training in Denmark, I explore doubt as a transformative experience. Doubt, I hold, destabilizes both ontological certainty and the alleged analytical invalidity of engaged anthropology, making doubt, I argue, a valuable anthropological disposition. [Denmark mindfulness–meditation epistemologyand methodology]

Danish abstract Transformerende oplevelser har længe været et centralt emne for antropologer, der studerer spirituelle fænomener. Som radikalt‐deltagende oplever mange af disse antropologer selv at blive transformeret i løbet af feltarbejdet, hvilket forstærker deres vurdering af radikal‐deltagelse som den mest egnede måde at undersøge spirituelle fænomener på. Samtidig rejser oplevelserne spørgsmålet om spirituelle fænomeners ontologiske status, og her deler vandene sig mellem dem, der omfavner fænomenerne som ontologiske sandheder, og dem, der afviger fra at afgive vurdering. Denne splittelse forplantes ligeledes i diskussioner om antropologisk autoritet, hvor tro enten ses som afgørende for at forstå spirituelle fænomener eller som underminerende for analytisk validitet. Denne artikel skitserer en tredje position. Baseret på radikalt‐deltagende feltarbejde blandt mennesker i Danmark, som er dedikerede til spirituel og mindfulness‐meditations træning, udforsker jeg tvivl som en transformerende oplevelse, der destabiliserer både ontologisk vished og den angivelige analytiske invaliditet, og argumenterer for tvivl som værende en værdifuld antropologisk disposition.
Self‐directed learning with anime: A case of Japanese language and culture
Authors: Shintaku Kayo
Published: January 2022

Due to its accessibility and popularity, anime has been explored as a motivation for learning Japanese and as a pedagogical tool linking Japanese‐as‐a‐foreign‐language (JFL) literacy practices inside and outside of the classroom. However, JFL learners' actual practices in anime‐mediated self‐directed learning have not been fully investigated. Thus, this study examined JFL learners' digital literacy practices in their self‐directed learning via anime. The study's anime focus group (AFG) (n = 6) engaged in activities with three commercial anime titles throughout 10 consecutive weeks. Additionally, JFL learners from a Japanese language program (n = 191) and students from an anime class (n = 79) completed surveys, which illustrated the presence of anime in their lives, their purposes for learning Japanese, and exposure to Japanese in their literacy lifeworlds. The AFG's reflections also demonstrated anime's potential in digital literacies to present diverse linguistic and cultural information and links between in‐class and outside‐of‐classroom learning.
Impact of a temperature‐dependent stretching exponent on glass relaxation
Authors: Hauke Brittney M. , Mancini Matthew , Mauro John C.
Published: January 2022

The nonexponential relaxation behavior of glass is governed by the dimensionless stretching exponent, β, which is typically assumed to be a constant but is more accurately described as a function of temperature. Herein, relaxation calculations of glassy materials are undertaken via an iterative differential equation‐based algorithm to determine when the use of a temperature‐dependent (or dynamic) stretching exponent is required to capture the industrially relevant evolution of fictive temperature components, which is necessary for process engineering. Results reveal a range of liquid fragility index (m) in which a static β description is roughly equivalent to the behavior observed with a dynamic β. However, fast primary (α) relaxation modes demonstrate unique behavior in systems exhibiting excessively strong or fragile liquid behavior when a temperature‐dependent stretching exponent is considered. In this special issue dedicated to the International Year of Glass, we also provide broader perspectives regarding the importance and impact of a temperature‐dependent β.
High‐fat consumption alters the gut microbiome in retinitis pigmentosa mice and accelerates retinal degeneration
Authors: Kutsyr Oksana , Noailles Agustina , Martínez‐Gil Natalia , Maestre‐Carballa Lucía , Martínez‐García Manuel , Fernández‐Sánchez Laura , Maneu Victoria , Cuenca Nicolas , Lax Pedro
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Intestinal dysbiosis has been linked with the pathogenesis of several degenerative diseases. Moreover, the consumption of high‐fat diets (HFD) can drove to significant changes in the gut microbiome. Our purpose was to investigate changes in gut microbiome and retinal degeneration associated with the ingestion of HFD in a mice model of retinitis pigmentosa (RP).

Methods

C57BL/6J mice and rd10 mice were fed either with normal chow (5.5% fat kcal) or with a HFD (61.6% fat kcal) for two weeks since P19. Retinal function was analyzed by electroretinography and optomotor test. Immunohistochemistry was employed to evaluate the structure and integrity of the retinal tissue. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was made to evaluate the gut microbiome.

Results

We found a higher retinal degeneration in rd10 mice as compared to C57BL/6J mice, both fed with normal chow. Rd10 mice exhibited significantly reduced retinal responsiveness, as well as diminished visual acuity. This loss of retina function went with a decrease in the number of photoreceptor rows, and the remaining photoreceptors showed morphologic anomalies. The photoreceptor degeneration was accompanied by an inflammatory response of the retina, characterized by the proliferation of microglial cells and reactive gliosis of Müller cells. Likewise, the gut microbiome analysis revealed differences in alpha and beta diversity at the genera, species, and amplicon sequence variants levels. HFD generated a significant dysbiosis in the gut microbiome increasing potentially pro‐inflammatory bacteria as Bilophila sp., Alistipes sp. and Mucispirillum schaedleri, and drived the exacerbation of the retinal degeneration.

Conclusions

In retinitis pigmentosa, retinal dysfunction and degeneration are related to significant changes in the gut microbiome, which can be altered by diet, conducing to a worsening of the disease.

Support

MINECOFEDER‐BFU2015‐67139‐R, FEDER‐PID2019‐106230RB‐I00, RETICS‐FEDER RD16/0008/0016, IDIFEDER/2017/064.
Progressive changes in visual function after Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Campo Lorena Arias , Altabás María José Vicente , Tello Alvaro , Castro‐Roger Luisa , Ciordia Beatriz Cordón , Perié Manuel Subías , Rodrigo Maria Jesus , Garcia‐Martin Elena , Satue Maria
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To compare progressive changes in visual function parameters in patients with Fuchs entothelial dystrophy (FED) who underwent Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK). To compare visual results after DMEK with visual function parameters in healthy subjects without corneal pathology.

Methods

Thirty patients (30 eyes) with FED who underwent DMEK surgery were included in the study. All subjects underwent best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) evaluation using the ETDRS optotype in photopic and scotopic conditions, and contrast sensitivity (CS) assessment using the CSV 1000 and the Pelli Robson test in different lighting conditions, preoperatively, at 1 and 6 months after surgery. Thirty eyes of 30 healthy controls were evaluated using the same protocol and compared with the patients’ final postsurgery data.

Results

A significant improvement in all visual function parameters was observed in patients 1 month (p < 0.05) and 6 months (p < 0.05) after DMEK, compared with preoperative levels. No significant differences were observed between patients and healthy controls in the lowest spatial frequency of 3cpd (photopic, p = 0.891; mesopic, p = 0.064; mesopic with glare, p = 0.786). Healthy controls had significantly higher BCVA in photopic and scotopic conditions (p = 0.015, p = 0.03, respectively), better CS measured with the CSV 1000 test in the spatial frequencies of 6 cpd, 12 cpd and 18 cpd and with the Pelli Robson test (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

DMEK improves visual function parameters in patients with FED in the first month after surgery. Patients who underwent DMEK present similar contrast sensitivity to healthy subjects in lower frequencies. However, the rest of the values assessed were significantly lower in DMEK patients compared to healthy controls 6 months after surgery.
Surgical treatment of extensive symblepharon with oral mucosa autografting transplantation in two patients with ocular cicatricial pemphigoid
Authors: Mouriki Konstantina , Lafioniatis Nikos , Tsoutsoura Sofia , Panitsa Gerasimina , Kavroulaki Dimitra
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Tο present the surgical management of extensive symblepharon in two cases of advanced ocular cicatricial pemphigoid.

Methods

A 68‐year‐old male with ocular cicatricial pemphigoid treated with methotrexate was presenting trichiasis and extensive symblepharon in the left lower eyelid. The second case was a 70‐year‐old woman treated with dapsone and mycophenolate mofetil with extensive symblepharon in her left lower eyelid. In both cases, we harvested oral mucosa autograft and sutured it in the left lower tarsus after surgical dissection of the symblepharon.

Results

In both cases postoperatively the lower eyelid was mobile, the graft was in place and vivid, no signs of inflammation nor rejection, quiet eye. Three months later there was no scarring of the graft and fornix in the first patient, but some scarring in the second patient as the control of ocular cicatricial pemphigoid was inadequate.

Conclusions

Oral mucosa autografting transplantation for forniceal reconstruction is a surgical technique that should be considered in patients with symblepharon formation and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid when active disease is controlled.

Bibliography

Kheirkhah A, Blanco G, Casas V, Hayashida Y, Raju VK, Tseng SC. Surgical strategies for fornix reconstruction based on symblepharon severity. Am J Ophthalmol. 2008 Aug;146(2):266‐275. doi: 10.1016/j.ajo.2008.03.028. Epub 2008 Jun 2. PMID: 18514608.
Corneal wounds repair emergencies during COVID‐19: 10/0 absorbable polyglactin sutures as a valuable strategy
Authors: Abihaidar Nicolas , Gain Philippe , Thuret Gilles , Garcin Thibaud
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study is to report the use of Vicryl 10‐0 (polyglactin 910) resorbable monofilament in corneal trauma during COVID‐19 pandemic: structural and functional results, and follow‐up adaptation during health crisis.

Methods

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, nine patients were selected from the overall population of open or closed globe surgical emergencies (n = 37) in a french University Hospital. Selected patients were eligible for corneal sutures with Vicryl 10‐0, thus replacing the traditional 10‐0 nonabsorbable monofilament nylon suture. Postoperative treatment combined anti‐inflammatory drugs, topical antibiotics and lubricating drops. Outpatient visits were performed at D10, M2, M6 then every six month. Interim visits were performed if needed between D10 and M2 by teleconsultation. Patients received complete examination including different imaging. The main outcome was best corrected visual acuity. Secondary outcomes included average corneal astigmatism and the occurrence of complications.

Results

Mean distance and near acuity improved from 0.711 ± 0.805 & 0.556 ± 0.305 logMAR preoperatively to 0.056 ± 0.073 & 0.333 ± 0.100 logMAR postoperatively (p = 0.032 and p = 0.043 respectively). Mean astigmatism decreased from 4.91 ± 4.21 diopters preoperatively to 0.99 ± 0.57 after suture resorption (p = 0.020). There were no serious adverse events or repeated surgery.

Conclusions

Polyglactin 910 10‐0 could provide a maximum infectious risk reduction; a shorter topical treatment and antibiotic prophylaxis. The absorbable nature of the sutures simplifies logistics by reducing the number of early outpatient visits before M2. It avoids suture removal, especially for the pediatric population. Interim teleconsultation(s) on demand are interesting to evaluate the need for an additional face‐to‐face consultation. Vicryl 10‐0 sutures are ideally suited to the COVID‐19 pandemic logistical constraints, as a safe and effective alternative to nylon 10‐0 for the management of eligible corneal wounds.
Herpes simplex virus conjunctival dendritic ulcer as a primary infection in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Rivasés Guillermo Pérez , Barreda Maria Dolores Diaz , Murillo Ana Boned , El Bakkali Ismael Bakkali , Moscarda Eva Josefina Nuñez , De Rivas Marta Orejudo , Arias Pablo Cisneros , Del Buey Sayas Maria Ángeles , Puyuelo Javier Ascaso
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To describe an atypical case of conjunctival herpetic dendritic ulceration in an immunocompetent patient with no history of herpetic primary infection.

Methods

This is a single observational case report and a review of the literature. The patient was followed in successive appointments.

Results

Ocular involvement by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) in its recurrent form is characteristic for dendritic ulcers in the corneal epithelium, which are postulated to obtain this form due to the corneal nerve plexus. We describe the first case to date of an immunocompetent patient, age > 70 years and without prior immunosuppressive treatment, with a primary herpetic infection clinically diagnosed by presenting a dendritic ulcer in the bulbar conjunctiva. The patient had nonspecific corneal involvement, and the case was subsequently confirmed with polymerase chain reaction for HSV‐1.

Conclusions

The presentation of a dendritic ulcer in the bulbar conjunctiva in a case of ocular herpes infection is a rare finding, and the physiopathology is unknown. It casts doubt on the theory that corneal dendritic ulcer morphology is only formed because of the corneal sub‐basal nerve plexus involvement. This suggests that conjunctiva examination is of vital importance in herpetic ocular infection, and that it can used a diagnostic methodology if no other eye conditions are found.
Optimisation of descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty transplant quality assessment techniques
Authors: Goin Paul , Sagnial Tomy , Belameiri Lydia , Poinard Sylvain , Gauthier Anne Sophie , Gain Philippe , Thuret Gilles , He Zhiguo
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Quality of the endothelial transplant is a critical parameter in the success of Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) and in the graft survival. The peeling techniques, preservation methods and operator’s skill level need to be experimentally assessed and validated, as they are key elements influencing graft quality. The most reliable method of quality evaluation of the endothelial transplant is the triple staining with Hoechst‐Calcein AM‐Ethidium (HEC) allowing to determine the total number of viable endothelial cells. However, the test HEC has defects: (1) Unspecific fluorescence of the same filter than that Calcein AM prevents an accurate viability analysis; (2) Incompatibility with immunofluorescence (IF) which could provide additional information. The aim of this study is to develop technical tips to overcome these defects.

Methods

Two strategies were employed to improve Calcein AM staining: 1. Increase the specific fluorescence intensity by changing the concentration of Calcein AM and diluent; 2. Decrease unspecific fluorescence by adding the fluorescence quencher Trypan Blue (TB). In order to combine IF after the test HEC, an extensive wash in PBS was performed. In total, 19 human corneas had been used.

Results

Calcein AM at 4µM diluted in OptiMEM increased fluorescence intensity by 3‐fold (p = 0.0017, n = 5) compared to conventional staining at 2 µM in PBS. Trypan Blue visibly decreased the unspecific fluorescence of Calcein, reduced the inter‐operator (n = 6) variability of cell count by 42% (p = 0.0027, n = 10) and reduce analysis time by 40% (p = 0.0002, n = 10). To perform IF after HEC test, prolonged washing in PBS was an effective method to remove residual Calcein fluorescence and allow imaging using FITC/Alexa 488 filter.

Conclusions

This study provides effective technical tips for optimising assessment of the endothelial viability and for being able to perform IF after the test HEC.
Influence of pre‐adaptation time to background illumination on photopic negative response of the full‐field electroretinogram
Authors: Blum Maren‐Christina , Klee Sascha
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The photopic negative response (PhNR) is a negative wave (latency ~70ms) of the full‐field electroretinogram (ERG) which represents ganglion cell activity. The amplitude is most distinctive for a red stimulus on a blue background. In the literature different pre‐adaptation times (range from few seconds to 10min) to the blue background can be found. The aim of the study presented here was to verify whether the pre‐adaptation time to the blue background has an influence on the PhNR wave.

Methods

In total 12 subjects (25.4±2.0years, 4m, 8f) participated in the study. For visual stimulation, a full‐field stimulator with a red flash (wavelength: 625nm, flash strength: 1.5cds/m², duration: ≤ 5ms, inter‐flash interval: 1s) on blue background (wavelength: 455nm, luminance: 10cd/m²) was used. For ERG recording, Ag/AgCl ring‐shaped skin‐electrodes were placed at the lower eyelid, the ipsilateral earlobe, and the forehead. The subjects were light adapted before all measurements. Each ERG measurement consisted of a pre‐adaptation time (15s/1/2/5/10min, randomized order) followed by an ERG measurement, which includes 20 artifact‐free sweeps. The PhNR wave was defined as the minimum after the b‐wave in the latency range from 60 to 80ms and was measured from the baseline (BT) and from the b‐wave peak (PT). For statistical analysis, the Friedman‐test was applied between the pre‐adaptation times for both measured amplitudes and the latency (α=0.05).

Results

The PhNR could be measured and analyzed from all subjects. The Friedman‐test showed no significant difference between the pre‐adaption times for both amplitudes and the latency (*p ≤ 0.0167; pBT‐amplitude = 0.281, pPT‐amplitude = 0.797, platency = 0.448).

Conclusions

We found no influence of the pre‐adaption time to the blue background on the PhNR amplitude and latency. Therefore, for future work only a short pre‐adaptation time of a few seconds is sufficient for a stable PhNR wave measurement for light adapted subjects.
Oxygen exposure in inherited diseases of the retina
Authors: Türksever Cengiz , López Torres Lisette T. , Valmaggia Christophe , Todorova Margarita G.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Patients with inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) share altered retinal metabolic function. The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between retinal metabolic alterations (retinal vessel Oximetry, RO) and structural findings (central retinal thickness and retinal nerve fibre layer thickness, RNFL) in IRDs.

Methods

A total of 181 eyes of 92 subjects were examined: 121 eyes of 62 patients with IRDs were compared to 60 eyes of 30 healthy age‐matched controls. The retinal vessel oximetry was performed with the oxygen saturation measurement tool of the Retinal Vessel Analyser (RVA; IMEDOS Systems UG, Jena, Germany). The oxygen saturation in all four major peripapillary retinal arterioles (A‐SO2; %) and venules (V‐SO2; %) were measured and their difference (A‐V SO2; %) was calculated. In addition, we calculated the mean central retinal oxygen exposure (cO2‐E; %/µm) and the mean peripapillary oxygen exposure (pO2‐E; %/µm) per micron of central retinal thickness and nerve fibre layer thickness.

Results

Rod‐cone dystrophy patients had the highest V‐SO2 and A‐SO2, the lowest A‐V SO2, the narrower D‐A and D‐V and the thickest RNFL, when compared to controls (p≤0.040), but also to patients with other IRDs. Furthermore, in rod‐cone dystrophies, the cO2‐E and the pO2‐E were higher in comparison to controls and to patients with other IRDs (p≤0.005). Cone‐rod dystrophy patients had the lowest cO2‐E compared to controls and patients with other IRDs (p≤0.035). Evaluated in central zones, the cO2‐E was significantly different when comparing CRD‐ against RCD patients in all zones (p<0.001), whereas against controls and patients with inherited macular dystrophy only in zones 1 and 2 (p≤0.018). The oxygen exposure was also the highest in the RCD, for both the nasal and the temporal peripapillary area among evaluated groups (p ≤ 0.025)

Conclusions

Clearly demonstrated through the O2‐E comparisons, rod‐cone dystrophy eyes seem to be more exposed to oxygen, the later presumably leading to more pronounced oxidative damage‐related remodeling.