bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Figure S6 from Identification of MUC1-C as a Target for Suppressing Progression of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Nakashoji Ayako , Haratake Naoki , Bhattacharya Atrayee , Mao Weipu , Xu Kangjie , Wang Keyi , Daimon Tatsuaki , Ozawa Hiroki , Shigeta Keisuke , Fushimi Atsushi , Yamashita Nami , Morimoto Yoshihiro , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Saito Shin , Egloff Ann Marie , Uppaluri Ravindra , Long Mark D. , Kufe Donald
Published: May 2024

Effects of targeting MUC1-C with the GO-203 inhibitor.
Figure S2 from Identification of MUC1-C as a Target for Suppressing Progression of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Nakashoji Ayako , Haratake Naoki , Bhattacharya Atrayee , Mao Weipu , Xu Kangjie , Wang Keyi , Daimon Tatsuaki , Ozawa Hiroki , Shigeta Keisuke , Fushimi Atsushi , Yamashita Nami , Morimoto Yoshihiro , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Saito Shin , Egloff Ann Marie , Uppaluri Ravindra , Long Mark D. , Kufe Donald
Published: May 2024

MUC1-C regulates the type I and IFN pathways in CAL27 and HSC3 cells.
Indirect Markers of Intestinal Damage in IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Pohjonen Jussi , Kaukinen Katri , Huhtala Heini , Pörsti Ilkka , Lindfors Katri , Mustonen Jukka , Mäkelä Satu
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Presence of subclinical intestinal inflammation has repeatedly been shown in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) and the degree of histological inflammation has correlated with abnormal urinary findings. There is lack of noninvasive biomarkers evaluating the presence of subclinical intestinal damage in IgAN. We conducted this study hypothesizing that selected biomarkers regarded as indirect markers of intestinal damage could be elevated in IgAN. Methods: Eighty-five primary IgAN patients (median age 55 years, 54% men) participated in this single-center study in Tampere, Finland. None had end-stage kidney disease or previously diagnosed enteropathies. Celiac disease was excluded with serum transglutaminase 2 antibody (TG2Ab) and endomysial antibody tests and inflammatory bowel disease with fecal calprotectin. Intestinal damage was evaluated from sera with analyses of intestinal fatty-acid binding protein (I-FABP), soluble cluster of differentiation molecule 14 (sCD14), and lipopolysaccharide binding protein. Fourteen people suffering from dyspepsia and 15 healthy people served as controls. Results: I-FABP levels among IgAN patients were higher than in the healthy controls (median 830 pg/mL vs. 289 pg/mL, p < 0.001). Also, sCD14 was increased in IgAN patients compared to dyspepsia controls. Although TG2Ab levels were within the normal range among IgAN patients, they were higher than in the healthy controls (median 1.3 U/mL vs. 0.6 U/mL, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Elevated serum levels of I-FABP were present in primary IgAN patients without known enteropathies. Serum I-FABP may indicate the presence of subclinical intestinal damage. These findings encourage further investigation into the role of the intestine in the pathophysiology of IgAN.
Detection of Clarithromycin Resistance in Helicobacter pylori Using MmaxSure™ H. pylori & ClaR Assay
Authors: Kim Ilsoo , Shin Yu Ri , Kim Joon Sung , Kim Byung-Wook , Maeng Lee-So , Kim Jung Min
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Clarithromycin resistance is a crucial factor in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of MmaxSure™ H. pylori & ClaR Assay (MmaxSure™) in the diagnosis and detection of clarithromycin resistance in H. pylori. Methods: Subjects who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy between April 2020 and October 2022 were enrolled. The diagnostic performances of MmaxSure™ and dual priming oligonucleotide (DPO)-based multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were compared with the rapid urease test and culture. Secondary gene sequencing analysis was performed in discordant cases of PCR tests. Results: A total of 156 gastric biopsy samples were analyzed. In H. pylori detection, MmaxSure™ showed a 95.9% sensitivity (95% CI: 90.6–98.6), a 42.7% specificity (95% CI: 26.3–60.7), and a kappa value of 0.457. For the detection of A2143G mutation samples, MmaxSure™ showed a 91.2% sensitivity (95% CI: 76.3–98.1), a 93.4% specificity (95% CI: 87.5–97.1), and a kappa value of 0.804. There were a total of 10 discordant cases compared to gene sequencing in A2143G mutation detection for MmaxSure™. Conclusion: In this study, MmaxSure™ showed comparable diagnostic performance to DPO-PCR in the detection of the H. pylori and A2143G mutation. Further research is needed to confirm the clinical effectiveness of the MmaxSure™ assay in H. pylori eradication.
Prognostic Implications of Circulating Plasma Cell Percentage in Multiple Myeloma and Primary Plasma Cell Leukemia Defined by New Criteria
Authors: Jin Xianghong , Jiang Xianyong , Li Hui , Shen Kaini , Liu Shuangjiao , Chen Miao , Yang Chen , Han Bing , Zhuang Junling
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The definition of primary plasma cell leukemia (pPCL) has been revised from ≥20% to ≥5% circulating plasma cells (CPC). However, the precise prognosis associated with CPC remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate prognostic biomarkers for myeloma patients based on CPC presence. Methods: A comprehensive analysis was conducted on 309 consecutive patients diagnosed with either multiple myeloma or pPCL, utilizing peripheral blood smears stained with Wright-Giemsa. Results: Patients were grouped by CPC percentage: 0% (221, 71.5%), 1–4% (49, 15.9%), 5–19% (16, 5.2%), ≥20% (23, 7.4%). CPC >5% correlated with unfavorable characteristics, including anemia, renal dysfunction, and advanced International Staging System. Common cytogenetic abnormalities such as 1q21 amplification, 17p deletion, and Myc rearrangement were prevalent among CPC-positive patients. Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were shorter in patients with CPC ≥5% (29.47 vs. 10.03 months; 64.10 vs. 12.30 months). Additionally, PFS and OS were shorter in CPC-positive patients without autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT) and those with response < partial remission to the first-line regimen. Furthermore, an association emerged between soft tissue-related extramedullary disease and inferior PFS, while Myc rearrangement correlated with abbreviated OS. Conclusion: Biological characteristics displayed greater aggressiveness in patients with positive CPC, leading to significantly shorter PFS and OS. The presence of CPC, ASCT, and overall response rate were independent prognostic factors. While no new threshold for pPCL with CPCs is proposed, Myc rearrangements and CPC positivity could serve as ultra-high-risk factors for multiple myeloma.
Subretinal Exudation: The First Presentation of Untreated Choroidal Melanomas
Authors: Diafas Asterios , Williams Harriet , Ajanaku Ayodeji , Heimann Heinrich , Hussain Rumana
Published: May 2024

Introduction: This case series aims to present the unusual clinical manifestation of subretinal exudation in patients diagnosed with untreated choroidal melanoma. A total of 886 patients were diagnosed and treated for primary choroidal melanoma between November 2017 and June 2023 at St. Paul’s Eye Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, UK. The fundus photographs were screened for lipid exudates by two independent clinical experts. The patients’ demographics, clinical manifestations, and imaging features were analysed, whereas the location of exudation was documented with fundus photographs and optical coherence tomography (OCT). The histopathological and genetic results were also analysed in cases with tumour biopsy available. Case Presentations: Eight cases with subretinal exudates were identified (n = 8/886, 0.90%). No gender predilection was noticed (male/female 1:1), whereas the mean age was 51 years (range 39–79). Four patients were asymptomatic at presentation, 2 patients reported reduced visual acuity, and 2 patients presented with photopsia. OCT scans revealed the presence of subretinal fluid and subretinal exudates, while the ultrasound showed medium or low internal reflectivity in 7 out of 8 cases. The biopsy analysis was available in 4 cases, all showing low-risk spindle cell choroidal melanoma with disomy 3. Conclusion: Lipid exudates are an atypical fundoscopic finding in patients with untreated choroidal melanoma. The subretinal location could differentiate them from other retinal vascular conditions and facilitate early diagnosis and intervention. Interestingly, all cases tested cytogenetically were of low metastatic risk; these exudates may, therefore, be a positive clinical prognostic sign.
Analysis of Postoperative Urinary Incontinence and Influencing Factors of Transurethral Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate
Authors: Huang Hui-ning , Sun Yi-hai , Liu Xin , Tao Wei-qi
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Aims of the study were to investigate the related factors of urinary incontinence after transurethral holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and to provide guidance for clinical urinary control of HoLEP. Methods: The clinical data of 548 patients who underwent HoLEP were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were followed up for the occurrence of urinary incontinence in the short term (2 weeks), medium term (3 months), and long term (6 months) after HoLEP. Results: Among the 548 benign prostatic hyperplasia patients, 79 cases (14.42%) had urinary incontinence at 2 weeks, 19 cases (3.47%) at 3 months, and 2 cases (0.36%) at 6 months after surgery. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, prostate volume, diabetes mellitus, operation time, prostate tissue weight, and histological prostatitis were risk factors for recent urinary incontinence (p < 0.05). Age, diabetes, and operation time were risk factors for mid-term urinary incontinence (p < 0.05). The incidence of long-term urinary incontinence was low and no risk factor analysis was performed. Conclusions: For good urinary control after HoLEP, in addition to surgery-related factors such as surgical skills, proficiency, and precise anatomy, patients’ risk factors should also be paid attention to in order to improve postoperative urinary control more effectively and reduce the incidence of urinary incontinence.
Long-Term Neurologic Consequences following Fetal Growth Restriction: The Impact on Brain Reserve
Authors: Shah Divyen K. , Pereira Susana , Lodygensky Gregory A.
Published: May 2024

Background: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) corresponds to the fetus’s inability to achieve an adequate weight gain based on genetic potential and gestational age. It is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Summary: In this review, we address the challenges of diagnosis and classification of FGR. We review how chronic fetal hypoxia impacts brain development. We describe recent advances on placental and fetal brain imaging using magnetic resonance imaging and how they offer new noninvasive means to study growth restriction in humans. We go on to review the impact of FGR on brain integrity in the neonatal period, later childhood, and adulthood and review available therapies. Key Messages: FGR consequences are not limited to the perinatal period. We hypothesize that impaired brain reserve, as defined by structure and size, may predict some concerning epidemiological data of impaired cognitive outcomes and dementia with aging in this group of patients.
Efficacy of Cricoid Pressure Application during Esophagogastroduodenoscopy in Patients with Poor Gastric Wall Extension
Authors: Horii Toshiki , Ikehara Hisatomo , Arata Suguru , Domen Takahiro , Kusano Chika
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) requires adequate air infusion. However, cases of poor gastrointestinal wall extension due to frequent eructation have been reported. Sufficient gastrointestinal wall extension can be achieved by applying cricoid pressure during EGD. Herein, we evaluated the frequency of cases with poor gastrointestinal wall extension and the efficacy and safety of applying cricoid pressure during EGD. Methods: This interventional study included patients who underwent EGD between January 2020 and December 2020 at the JA Akita Koseiren Yuri Kumiai General Hospital. Cases wherein folds of the greater curvature of the upper gastric body were not sufficiently extended during EGD were considered to have poor gastrointestinal wall extension. In such cases, air infusion was performed while applying cricoid pressure. This procedure was considered effective when gastric wall extension was achieved. Results: A total of 2,000 patients were enrolled and underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy; however, five were excluded because of upper gastrointestinal tract stenosis. Observation of gastric wall extension of the greater curvature in the upper gastric body with normal air insufflation was difficult in 113 (5.7%) cases. Applying cricoid pressure was effective in 93 (82.3%) patients with poor gastric wall extension. Sufficient gastric wall extension was achieved within an average of 12.8 s in cases where cricoid pressure application was effective. No adverse events were associated with cricoid pressure application. Conclusions: Cricoid pressure application for patients with poor gastric wall extension during EGD is useful for ensuring a sufficient field of view during observation of the gastric body.
First Karyotypic Insights into Potamotrygon schroederi Fernández-Yépez, 1958: Association of Different Classes of Repetitive DNA
Authors: Ferreira Alex M.V. , Viana Patrik F. , Marajó Leandro , Feldberg Eliana
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Currently, there are 38 valid species of freshwater stingrays, and these belong to the subfamily Potamotrygoninae. However, cytogenetic information about this group is limited, with studies mainly using classical techniques, Giemsa, and C-banding. Methods: In this study, we used classical and molecular cytogenetic techniques – mapping of 18S and 5S rDNA and simple sequence repeats (SSRs) – in order to investigate the karyotypic composition of Potamotrygon schroederi and reveal the karyoevolutionary trends of this group. Results: The species presented 2n = 66 chromosomes with 18m + 12sm + 16st + 20a, heterochromatic blocks distributed in the centromeric regions of all the chromosomes, and terminal blocks in the q arm of pairs 2 and 3. Mapping of 18S rDNA regions revealed multiple clusters on pairs 2 and 7 and a homolog of pair 24. The 5S rDNA region was found in the pericentromeric portion of the subtelocentric pair 16. Furthermore, dinucleotide SSRs sequences were found in the centromeric and terminal regions of different chromosomal pairs, with preferential accumulation in pair 17. In addition, we identified conspicuous blocks of (GATA)n and (GACA)n sequences colocalized with the 5S rDNA (pair 16). Conclusion: In general, this study corroborates the general trend of a reduction in 2n in the species of Potamotrygoninae subfamily. Moreover, we found that the location of rDNA regions is very similar among Potamotrygon species, and the SSRs accumulation in the second subtelocentric pair (17) seems to be a common trait in this genus.
L’analyse des pratiques professionnelles: un dispositif clinique en mouvement
Authors: Pechberty Bernard Gérard
Published: May 2024

Michael Balint fundó un dispositivo clínico dedicado a la relación médico-paciente. Los grupos de análisis de prácticas profesionales que se desarrollaron posteriormente acogen otras profesiones con otros saberes: adaptan la orientación psicoanalítica al estudio, en grupo, del self profesional de los participantes, formadores, educadores y profesores. Aparecen nuevos datos, como la relación de los participantes con el conocimiento o la dimensión narcisista que lo sustenta y que parece tener un papel muy importante: de hecho, el narcisismo está presente en la historia profesional propuesta y en el grupo en dos vertientes, positiva y negativa, de apoyo creativo o de cierre. Este artículo también desarrolla cómo este sistema de trabajo, abierto a las variaciones del marco y a las sorpresas, se conjuga con el aporte de los psicoanalistas de grupo.
Maria Antônia: história e crítica do presente
Authors: Silva Anderson Lima da
Published: May 2024

Partindo das reflexões de Franklin Leopoldo e Silva, procuraremos recuperar alguns fragmentos da experiência da Maria Antônia de modo a compreendê-la em sua densidade histórica, qual seja, enquanto vivência concreta marcada pela experiência de pertencimento ao tempo presente e como transgressão dos limites do estabelecido. Num segundo momento, buscaremos refletir sobre a ambiguidade dessa experiência como “abertura de possíveis” e “perda do irrealizado”. Isso nos levará à necessidade de questionar o “presentismo” e o fenômeno de adaptação que lhe é inerente, propondo assim uma reelaboração crítica das relações entre passado e presente, isto é, da experiência histórica, a partir da qual o acontecimento Maria Antônia pode ser atualizado sob a perspectiva de uma crítica do presente.
Berkeley, Bergson e William James: o empirismo concreto de Franklin Leopoldo e Silva
Authors: Zunino Pablo Enrique Abraham
Published: May 2024

Este texto propõe uma interpretação da obra de Franklin Leopoldo e Silva com base na leitura de alguns dos seus inúmeros artigos e livros publicados, sem deixar de lado as aulas e orientações recebidas desde a etapa da Iniciação Científica até o Pós-doutorado. Justamente, ao destacar a importância de três pensadores amplamente estudados pelo professor Franklin – Berkeley, Bergson e William James –, sugerimos que no âmago dessa experiência filosófica haveria uma constante: o empirismo. Seja na versão clássica ou radical, a linha que traçamos nesta multiplicidade revela uma abertura para o empirismo concreto.
Habitar o tempo: percursos proustianos na produção bibliográfica de Franklin Leopoldo e Silva
Authors: Barbosa Antônia Faro Agostinelli Peixoto
Published: May 2024

Procura-se neste artigo realizar uma revisão bibliográfica do texto “Proust e a compreensão da dor”, de Franklin Leopoldo e Silva, publicado originalmente na Revista Discurso, 03 (1972). No texto em questão aparecem os principais temas do romance proustiano, como tempo, memória voluntária e involuntária e esquecimento, à luz de uma temática nuclear do ponto de vista da narrativa: a dor. Procura-se responder à questão: “reencontrar o tempo é o mesmo que recuperá-lo?”, sob a interpretação do tempo que passa e em face à passagem do tempo, e esclarecer as relações entre temporalidade e o papel da arte.
Hölderlin na sala de aula: lições de Rubens Rodrigues Torres Filho sobre Juízo e ser
Authors: Codato Luciano
Published: May 2024

Resenha
Generalizable Approach to Quantifying Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy
Authors: Khan Mirza S. , Chan Paul S. , Sherrod Charles F. , Ikemura Nobuhiro , Sauer Andrew J. , Jones Philip G. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Butler Javed , DeVore Adam D. , Lund Lars H. , Spertus John A.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Quantifying guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) intensity is foundational for improving heart failure (HF) care. Existing measures discount dose intensity or use inconsistent weighting.

Methods:

The Kansas City Medical Optimization (KCMO) score is the average of total daily to target dose percentages for eligible GDMT, reflecting the percentage of optimal GDMT prescribed (range, 0–100). In Change the Management of Patients With HF, we computed KCMO, HF collaboratory (0–7), and modified HF Collaboratory (0–100) scores for each patient at baseline and for 1-year change in established GDMT at the time (mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, β-blocker, ACE [angiotensin-converting enzyme] inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker/angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor). We compared baseline and 1-year change distributions and the coefficient of variation (SD/mean) across scores.

Results:

Among 4532 patients at baseline, mean KCMO, HF collaboratory, and modified HF Collaboratory scores were 38.8 (SD, 25.7), 3.4 (1.7), and 42.2 (22.2), respectively. The mean 1-year change (n=4061) for KCMO was −1.94 (17.8); HF collaborator, −0.11 (1.32); and modified HF Collaboratory, −1.35 (19.8). KCMO had the highest coefficient of variation (0.66), indicating greater variability around the mean than the HF collaboratory (0.49) and modified HF Collaboratory (0.53) scores, reflecting higher resolution of the variability in GDMT intensity across patients.

Conclusions:

KCMO measures GDMT intensity by incorporating dosing and treatment eligibility, provides more granularity than existing methods, is easily interpretable (percentage of ideal GDMT), and can be adapted as performance measures evolve. Further study of its association with outcomes and its usefulness for quality assessment and improvement is needed.
Impact of Left Ventricular Unloading on Outcome of Heart Transplant Bridging With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support in New Allocation Policy
Authors: Gregory Vasiliki , Okumura Kenji , Isath Ameesh , Levine Avi , De La Pena Corazon , Shimamura Junichi , Spielvogel David , Kai Masashi , Ohira Suguru
Published: May 2024

Background

The new heart allocation policy places veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO)‐supported heart transplant (HT) candidates at the highest priority status. Despite increasing evidence supporting left ventricular (LV) unloading during VA‐ECMO, the effect of LV unloading on transplant outcomes following bridging to HT with VA‐ECMO remains unknown.

Methods and Results

From October 18, 2018 to March 21, 2023, 624 patients on VA‐ECMO at the time of HT were identified in the United Network for Organ Sharing database and were divided into 2 groups: VA‐ECMO alone (N=384) versus VA‐ECMO with LV unloading (N=240). Subanalysis was performed in the LV unloading group: Impella (N=106) versus intra‐aortic balloon pump (N=134). Recipient age was younger in the VA‐ECMO alone group (48 versus 53 years,
P
=0.018), as was donor age (VA‐ECMO alone, 29 years versus LV unloading, 32 years,
P
=0.041). One‐year survival was comparable between groups (VA‐ECMO alone, 88.0±1.8% versus LV unloading, 90.4±2.1%;
P
=0.92). Multivariable Cox hazard model showed LV unloading was not associated with posttransplant mortality after HT (hazard ratio, 0.92;
P
=0.70). Different LV unloading methods had similar 1‐year survival (intra‐aortic balloon pump, 89.2±3.0% versus Impella, 92.4±2.8%;
P
=0.65). Posttransplant survival was comparable between different Impella versions (Impella 2.5, versus Impella CP, versus Impella 5.0, versus Impella 5.5).

Conclusions

Under the current allocation policy, LV unloading did not impact waitlist outcome and posttransplant survival in patients bridged to HT with VA‐ECMO, nor did mode of LV unloading. This highlights the importance of a tailored approach in HT candidates on VA‐ECMO, where routine LV unloading may not be universally necessary.
Taxonomy of epilithic diatoms and teratological forms under the presence of metals in surface sediment
Authors: AMARAL MAILOR WELLINTON WEDIG , MEDEIROS GABRIELA , DAUFENBACH VANESSA , SAMPAIO SILVIO CESAR , REIS RALPHO RINALDO DOS , LUDWIG THELMA ALVIM VEIGA , BUENO NORMA CATARINA
Published: May 2024

Epilithic diatom species in eight sampling sites of the Cascavel River, Southern Brazil, were taxonomically analyzed. The studied streams are located in a predominantly urban micro-watershed, with distroferric red latosol (rich in Fe and Al), being characterized by distinct metals, predominantly acidic pH, and high conductivity. Overall, 221 diatom species were identified at infrageneric level. Pinnularia was the most representative genus in number of species (28 spp.), followed by Eunotia (25 spp.), Gomphonema (17 spp.), Nitzschia (14 spp.), and Navicula (11 spp.). This is the first record of Fragilaria spectra, Fragilaria tenera var. nanana and Humidophila arcuatoides for the state of Paraná, and the first record of Pinnularia laucensis in Brazil. We found teratological valves in 34 taxa, containing modified outline, changes in the striae pattern, and doubled central area. The genus Eunotia showed the highest number of altered taxa (8 spp.). Mixed teratologies (deformed valve outline + unusual striae pattern) were found only in Ulnaria ulna, Encyonema neomesianum, and Gomphonema graciledictum. The metals and environmental variables in the Cascavel River micro-watershed likely contributed to the diatom teratologies. Our work contributes to the taxonomic knowledge of epilithic diatoms in the region, as well as extending the record of teratological taxa in the literature.
Climatological Aspects of Notable Tornado Events in Chile
Authors: Marín Julio C. , Gutiérrez Felipe , Gensini Vittorio A. , Barrett Bradford S. , Pozo Diana , Jacques-Coper Martín , Veloso-Aguila Daniel
Published: May 2024

Tornadoes in Chile seem to develop in what are called “high-shear, low-CAPE” (HSLC) environments. An analysis of convective parameters from the ERA5 reanalysis during 16 notable tornadoes in Chile showed that several increased markedly before the time of the reports. The significant tornado parameter (STP) was able to discriminate the timing and location of the tornadoes, even though it was not created with that goal. We established thresholds for the severe hazards in environments with reduced buoyancy (SHERBE) parameter (≥1) and the STP (≤−0.3) to further identify days favorable for tornado activity in Chile. The SHERBE and STP parameters were then used to conduct a climatological analysis from 1959 to 2021 of the seasonal, interannual, and latitudinal variations of the environments that might favor tornadoes. Both parameters were found to have a strong annual cycle. The largest magnitudes of STP were found to be generally confined to south-central Chile, in agreement with the (sparse) tornado record. The probability of a day with both SHERBE and STP values beyond their thresholds was greatest between May and August, which aligns with the months with the most tornado reports. The number of days with both SHERBE and STP beyond their respective thresholds was found to fluctuate interannually. This result warrants further study given the known interannual variability of synoptic and mesoscale weather in Chile. The results of this study extend our understanding of tornado environments in Chile and provide insight into their spatiotemporal variability.
Education Policies and Systems Across Modern History: A Global Dataset
Authors: del Río Adrián , Knutsen Carl Henrik , Lutscher Philipp M.
Published: May 2024

We introduce a global dataset on education policies and systems across modern history (EPSM), which includes measures on compulsory education, ideological guidance and content of education, governmental intervention and level of education centralization, and teacher training. EPSM covers 157 countries with populations exceeding 1 million people, and time series extend from 1789 to the present. The new dataset opens up for studying several questions concerning political control and the politicized nature of education systems. In addition to describing the measures, we detail how the data were collected and discuss validity and reliability issues. Thereafter, we describe historical trends in various education system characteristics. Finally, we illustrate how our data can be used to address key questions about education and politics, replicating and extending recent analyses on the (reciprocal) relationship between education and democratization, the impact of education on political attitudes, and how rural inequality interacts with regime type in influencing education systems.
Motivation for Physical Activity as a Key Determinant of Sedentary Behavior Among Postsecondary Students
Authors: Surprenant Rachel , Cabot Isabelle , Fitzpatrick Caroline
Published: May 2024

It is known that the transition to adulthood represents a critical period of life when acquiring healthy behaviors can influence lifestyle and health throughout adulthood. Given the importance of the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle, identifying influence factors is key to improving healthy behaviors. The objective of this study is to explore the role of postsecondary students’ motivation toward physical activity in the association with their screen time and out-of-school physical activity practice. A total of 1522 postsecondary students (90% were aged 17-20 years) recruited from 17 postsecondary institutions completed the self-reported questionnaire during course time. Multivariate linear regression was used to assess the association between motivation to move including additional predictors of behavior such as intention and tendency to self-activate and self-reported screen time and physical activity controlling for age and sex. Motivation including all 3 motivational variables (interest, utility, competence) was negatively associated with screen time, b = −0.498 (95% CI between −0.635 and −0.361) and positively associated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, b = 133.986, (95% CI between 102.129 and 165.843). Of the 3 motivational variables, interest had the strongest negative association with screen time, b = −0.434 (95% CI between −0.551 and −0.317), and the strongest positive association with physical activity, b = 113.671, (95% CI between 86.396 and 140.946). These findings indicate that the motivation of postsecondary students toward physical activity significantly influences their behaviors, including screen time and physical activity engagement.
Therapeutic Management of Primary Atrophic Rhinitis (Ozene): About 4 Cases
Authors: Maalej Firas , Chaabouni Mohamed Amin , Ayadi Sirine , Sellami Moncef , Charfeddine Ilhem
Published: May 2024

Objective: To study the clinical characteristics and therapeutic means of primary atrophic rhinitis. Method: We present 4 cases of atrophic rhinitis caused by Klebsiella ozaenae observed in our hospital over a period of 5 years. Results: All patients presented the clinical triad: mucosal atrophy, presence of crusts, and cacosmia. Treatment was medical in 3 patients and surgical in 1 patient. We used rifampicin and sulfamethoxazole as antibiotics as well as trimethoprim for a period of 4 months. The surgical treatment consisted of recalibration of the nasal cavities by placing 2 silicone sticks in the subperiosteum. The evolution was marked by obstruction and cacosmia in 3 out of 4 patients. Conclusion: The treatment of primary atrophic rhinitis poses a problem for the clinician in terms of means and therapeutic effectiveness given that it is a chronic pathology requiring regular monitoring.
Between Open Deliberation and the Capturing of Public Opinion: Producing Opinions in Public Engagement
Authors: Breuer Svenja , Penkler Michael
Published: May 2024

The past decades have seen increasing calls to actively involve publics in the governance of science and technology. Many public engagement initiatives aim to facilitate the formation of public opinion. But what is an opinion? While the notion is often taken as self-evident, different imaginaries of what opinions are and how they should be formed are highly consequential for shaping relations between technoscience and society. Based on participant observations and interviews, we analyze how “opinion” is enacted as an emergent object and category with specific properties and uses in a series of public engagement events on genome editing. By identifying two prevalent goals tied to partially conflicting imaginaries of opinion—open deliberation and “capturing” public opinion—our analysis contributes to a more reflective understanding of the tensions that participation facilitators navigate when making opinions their central points of intervention in the coevolving relationship between technologies and their publics.
Formal, informal, and non-formal learning as analytic categories for research in music education
Authors: Storsve Gaute
Published: May 2024

Using a deductive approach, this article explores how synthesizing existing theoretical frameworks—UNESCO’s domains of education encompassing formal, informal, and nonformal learning, Folkestad’s dimensions of learning (the situation, learning style, ownership, and intentionality), and Green’s characterizations of informal learning—can enhance our understanding of students’ experiences of music-making across diverse contexts. It explores previous theoretical perspectives and empirical research on music education across these domains, incorporating a global perspective and discussing the varied interpretations of “non-formal” learning. The article highlights how a continuum between formal and informal learning is challenged by more fluid and nuanced understandings presented here. Drawing on empirical material from an ongoing study in Norwegian upper secondary schools, this work demonstrates the practical implications of a nuanced approach to understanding music learning contexts. Observations and interviews from collaborative learning settings offer insights into the interconnectedness of formal, informal, and non-formal learning domains. By offering a critical examination and synthesis of existing theoretical perspectives, this article contributes to broadening the discourse on music education. It underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to research and education practices that fully acknowledges the complexity of learning experiences across various contexts.
What does capital consume? Racial capitalism and the social reproduction of surplus people
Authors: Goffe Rachel , Luke Nikki
Published: May 2024

This intervention considers uneven development and social reproduction within racial capitalism. Social reproduction refers to the range of practices that form the conditions of possibility for the life of capital, as well as life and death within racial capitalism. This spans a range of institutions and networks within households, communities, states and across national borders as well as the labour practices, relations and organization that reproduce racial capitalism. Here, we examine the extraction of time, taking up theorizations across carceral geographies, postcolonial theory and Caribbean studies to demonstrate how coercive relations of social reproduction contribute to uneven development. In particular, we look at the role of the state in racial capital’s capture of reproductive activities across our work on electric utilities in Atlanta, Georgia and extralegal land tenure on Jamaica’s north coast. In bringing these distinct sites into conversation, we re-affirm the need to study uneven development by understanding how the circulation and accumulation of capital is imbricated with the production of hierarchies of all kinds of difference. We show how a conjunctural countertopography can reveal how state practices advance accumulation under conditions of widespread surplus lives, as capital wagers on captive life and premature death.
Breaking invisible walls: American Corners' programmes and strategies for strengthening interreligious dialogue and inclusive peace
Authors: Flores Roana Marie , Morales Mark Johnyrec
Published: May 2024

The main agenda of this study is to explore the various programmes and strategies of American Corners in Mindanao to amplify interreligious dialogue and peacebuilding within their communities. The researchers utilized the virtual focus group discussion approach, and the data collected was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase reflexive thematic analysis model. The researchers uncovered the creative efforts of each American Corner, integrating themes of interreligious dialogue, peace, mental health and animal welfare. The communities’ evolving needs greatly influence programming, with strong partnerships and immersive learning sessions cited as key programme highlights among the American Corners. However, poor infrastructure – particularly poor Internet access and power interruptions – poses significant challenges, prompting a focus on in-person over hybrid and virtual events. The recommendations include improving information accessibility and dissemination, fostering strategic partnerships, and deepening community engagement to sustain peace efforts in Mindanao.
Novel tubing connectors reduce ECMO circuit thrombosis
Authors: Bresette Christopher A , Shea Susan M , Wagoner Scott , Bakshi Saagar , Deshpande Shriprasad R , Maher Kevin O , Ku David N
Published: May 2024

Background:

Thrombosis within extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuits is a common complication that dominates clinical management of patients receiving mechanical circulatory support. Prior studies have identified that over 80% of circuit thrombosis can be attributed to tubing-connector junctions.

Methods:

A novel connector was designed that reduces local regions of flow stagnation at the tubing-connector junction to eliminate a primary source of ECMO circuit thrombi. To compare clotting between the novel connectors and the traditional connectors, both in vitro loops and an in vivo caprine model of long-term (48 h) ECMO were used to generate tubing-connector junction clots.

Results:

In vitro, the traditional connectors uniformly (9/9) formed large thrombi, while novel connectors formed a small thrombus in only one of nine ( p < 0.0001). In the long-term goat ECMO circuits, the traditional connectors exhibited more thrombi ( p < 0.04), and these thrombi were more likely to protrude into the lumen of the tubing ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Both in vitro and in vivo validation experiments successfully recreated circuit thrombosis and demonstrate that the adoption of novel connectors can reduce the burden of circuit thrombosis.
Growing the group: Neophyte conductors’ thinking on a group’s readiness for new members
Authors: Butler Jacqueline
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to determine what might be behind the many recommendations in the literature to pay heed to a group’s readiness and preparation for new members. Specifically, it investigates whether there is potential for a criteria-based approach to assessment of a group’s readiness that can orientate a trainee conductor. It explores some of the literature on the topic from a number of perspectives such as the group’s culture, cycles of maturation, boundaries and unconscious processes. The research method used was a qualitative case study involving trainees and qualified group analysts. The purpose of the focus group was to explore and reflect on the conductor’s understanding of a group’s readiness in the advent of the first new member/s to a trainee’s therapy group. The findings indicate that the motivations and reservations of the neophyte conductor can play a significant role in assessment of the readiness of a group for new members. They also indicate that a criteria-based approach to assessment involving the readiness of the conductor, the group and the new member holds potential for the trainee conductor as a basis for the ongoing growth of their group. Further research might explore how a more mature group can be assessed for readiness for new members including the influence of the location of authority and what the conductor hopes a new member can provide for their group.
Blood biomarkers for occupational hand-arm vibration exposure
Authors: Vihlborg Per , Lundberg Oscar , Pettersson-Pablo Paul , Johansson Niclas , Bryngelsson Ing-Liss , Stjernbrandt Albin , Graff Pål
Published: May 2024

Hand-arm vibration is a common occupational exposure that causes neurological impairment, myalgia, and vibration-induced Raynaud’s phenomena or vibration white fingers (VWF). The pathological mechanism is largely unknown, though several mechanisms have been proposed, involving both immunological vascular damage and defective neural responses. The aim of this study was to test whether the substances interleukin-33 (IL-33), macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), interleukin-10 (IL-10), endothelin-1 (ET-1), C-C motif chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20), calcitonin, and thromboxane (TXA2) changed before and after occupational hand-arm vibration exposure. 38 full-time shift workers exposed to hand-arm vibration were recruited. All the participants underwent medical examinations regarding symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomena. In 29 of the participants, the concentration of IL-33, MDC, IL-10, ET-1, CCL20, calcitonin, and TXA2 was measured before and after a workday. There was a significant increase in ET-1 and calcitonin concentration and a decrease in the CCL20 concentration after the work shift in all participants. In the group suffering from VWF, but not in the non-VWF group, MDC was statistically significantly lower before the work shift ( p = .023). The VWF group also showed a significant increase in MDC after the work shift. Exposure to occupational hand-arm vibration is associated with changes in ET-1, calcitonin, and MDC concentration in subjects suffering from vibration white fingers, suggesting a role of these biomarkers in the pathophysiology of this condition.
Intimate Partner Violence and Attachment Styles as Factors Associated with Coping Stress Styles Among Iranian Women
Authors: Sadegh Mohammadi Fatemeh , Spencer Chelsea M.
Published: May 2024

The current study sought to examine attachment styles as mediators between intimate partner violence (IPV) and stress coping styles among Iranian women. Data were collected from September to December 2020. The study population was composed of 102 women who were referred to Social Emergency Centers in Isfahan and affected by domestic violence. They were given self-report questionnaires to measure IPV (the Haj-Yahia Violence Questionnaire), Stress Coping Styles (CISS), and Attachment Styles (AAQ). Structural Equation Modeling was used to test the hypothesized relationships. Sexual IPV victimization was related to both avoidant attachment (β = .229, p = .015) and anxious attachment (β = .245, p = .008). Anxious attachment style was related to emotion-oriented coping (β = .437, p = .000). There was a negative relationship between avoidant attachment and anxious attachment (β = −.237, p = .032) with avoidance-oriented coping. Sexual IPV victimization and economic IPV victimization were associated with avoidance-oriented coping (β = −.225, t = 0.816, p = .015; β = .188, t = 0.816, p = .044). Women who had experienced IPV and had an insecure attachment style were more likely to utilize avoidance and emotional coping strategies. For women who had a secure attachment style, there was no association was found between IPV victimization and coping styles. Attachment styles may influence the relationship between IPV and coping strategies in Iranian women who have experienced violence.
Dequalinium chloride vaginal tablets for recalcitrant Trichomonas vaginalis: A case report
Authors: Wilson Janet D , Goode Deborah S , Wrench Emma , Astill Natasha M
Published: May 2024

Treatment options for recalcitrant Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), when very high dose systemic 5-nitroimidazole plus intravaginal therapy for over 14 days has failed, are very limited. They have poor efficacy, unpleasant side effects, and are difficult and expensive to acquire. We report successful treatment with 24 weeks of daily dequalinium chloride vaginal tablets. Dequalinium is licensed in Europe where it is readily available and cheap. It offers a safe and pragmatic alternative for recalcitrant TV.
People Have Systematically Different Ownership Intuitions in Seemingly Simple Cases
Authors: Zhang Xiuyuan , Bloom Paul , Jara-Ettinger Julian
Published: May 2024

Our understanding of ownership influences how we interact with objects and with each other. Here, we studied people’s intuitions about ownership transfer using a set of simple, parametrically varied events. We found that people ( N = 120 U.S. adults) had similar intuitions about ownership for some events but sharply opposing intuitions for others (Experiment 1). People ( N = 120 U.S. adults) were unaware of these conflicts and overestimated ownership consensus (Experiment 2). Moreover, differences in people’s ownership intuitions predicted their intuitions about the acceptability of using, altering, controlling, and destroying the owned object ( N = 130 U.S. adults; Experiment 3), even when ownership was not explicitly mentioned ( N = 130 U.S. adults; Experiment 4). Subject-level analyses suggest that these disagreements reflect at least two underlying intuitive theories, one in which intentions are central to ownership and another in which physical possession is prioritized.
Human radiation for medicine, spiritism and hypnosis in Argentina: scientific controversies around vital radiations (1880–1930)
Authors: Parra Alejandro
Published: May 2024

In the mid-nineteenth century, magnetic theories penetrated other recognized medical practices in Argentina in order to rationalize their procedures, in a culture that accepted and validated magnetism as a positive science. At the start of the twentieth century, mesmerists created a society, published books and journals, and carried out a large welfare programme; there were public lectures, and magnetic treatment for spiritualists and the general public, emphasizing the therapeutic properties of mesmerism. Magnetologists/mesmerists measured vital radiation and built devices using sensitive objects as ‘physical’ evidence of it. There was an interest in acquiring and using artefacts to measure human radiation useful in medicine. Magnetic practices survived until the end of the 1920s, when they lost importance.
Information type and format, and copyright infringement in academic libraries
Authors: Adu Theresa L. , van der Walt Thomas B.
Published: May 2024

Concerns on copyright infringement in HEIs are not only due to its deprivation of the potential economic earnings to rightsholders, and its role in hindering academic innovativeness and creativity, but mainly it being viewed as a criminal act with perceived violators subjected to lawsuits. However, the copyright protection regimes put in place by HEIs have been excoriated as ‘a one size (extra-large) fits all mode of protection’. There is therefore the need to understand, so as to enable the design of appropriate strategies that will respond to different acts of copyright infringement. Data was generated from 530 postgraduate students and 38 library staff to investigate how information type and/or format influence copyright infringement in academic libraries using the sequential mixed methods approach. Textbooks were the topmost materials whose copyright were ‘infringed’ upon whilst theses and dissertations on the one hand, and lecture notes, and sermons and essays on the other hand, topped the list of materials with the ‘most infringed’ and ‘extremely infringed’ copyright respectively. Digitalized information formats were adjudged as ‘sometimes infringed’ upon. The copyright on print formatted materials (33.6%) was indicated as ‘often infringed’ followed by audio formatted information (28.7%). Video formatted information was ‘always infringed’ upon (29.8%). Among the reasons for infringing the copyright on textbooks were: (i) affordability and (ii) credibility of the information they contain. Reasons for infringing the copyright on print materials included the fact that they afford one the ability to underline portions as well as make notes in them for easy reference.
Impact of Government Funded Health Insurance Scheme on OOP and Quality of Health Care: A Study of Maternal Health Care in Rajasthan
Authors: Sehgal Anmol , Sangita Seema
Published: May 2024

There has been a gradual shift of India’s health policies in favour of government-funded health insurance schemes rather than investment in public health facilities. The impact of this shift on quality of health care, especially for the poor and vulnerable population, is yet to be fully understood. The current study has been undertaken to study the effectiveness of one such state government-funded health insurance scheme, known as Bhamashah Swasthya Bima Yojana (BSBY), on out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure and quality of health care services for the child delivery cases in a low-income community in the capital city of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India. While this study contributes to knowledge on the impact of access to health insurance on OOP expenditure, it covers a critical gap in the literature regarding its effect on quality of health care. The empirical analysis, conducted using log-linear and logit models, indicates that BSBY has a positive impact on reduction of OOP and improvement in quality of treatment in the study area.