bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posthumanism and Digital Religion
Authors: Krüger Oliver
Published: January 2023

In recent years, ideas of posthumanism and transhumanism have been popularized by novels, TV series, and Hollywood movies. According to this radical perspective, humankind and all biological life have become obsolete. Traditional forms of life are inefficient at processing information and inept at crossing the high frontier: outer space. While humankind can expect to be replaced by their own artificial progeny, posthumanists assume that they will become an immortal part of a transcendent superintelligence that will be realized by the so-called singularity. In contrast to the main focus of digital religion studies, the analysis of posthumanism aims not to examine the actual use of media in a specific religious context but the interpretations of media that posthumanists expect to come. By considering the history and the larger cultural context of posthumanism, the close entanglement between religion, technology, and science from the 19th to the 21st centuries can be illuminated.
Intersectionality of Gender and Sexuality in African Cultures
Authors: Mkhize Gabi
Published: January 2023

This chapter applies an intersectional feminist lens to unpack a social perspective on the role played by gender and sexuality in African cultures. Placing heterosexual dominance and heteropatriarchal sexual desire at the center of African cultures, the chapter reveals complex interlocking forms of gender and sexual oppression and privileges. This chapter presents some examples of African cultures, and exhibits a radical form of cultural resistance against the gendered African cultural systems that dictate heterosexuality and patriarchy as cultural and social norms. Using secondary data as a part of qualitative research, the chapter applies a textual and narrative analysis from various sources, broader epistemologies, and experience-centered observations to understand the intersectionality of gender and sexuality in African cultures, including the meanings attached to the social and cultural construction and socialization of gender and sexuality. The chapter also applies intersectionality theoretical thinking based on feminist and sociological perspectives to unpack how the intersectionality of gender and sexuality is part of African cultures.
The Historical Political Economy of Political Parties
Authors: Jenkins Jeffery A. , Kam Christopher
Published: January 2023

Classical theorists disapproved of political parties, but over time parties proved to be indispensable elements of representative democracy. This chapter explores how and why parties emerged, and in doing so highlights three important revolutions in the historical development of political parties: an intellectual revolution, a legislative revolution, and an electoral revolution. Once parties became viable enterprises intellectually—that is, accepted as legitimate vehicles of constitutional opposition—ambitious politicians saw them as solutions to various problems that arose over time in conducting legislative business and contesting mass elections. Our focus is primarily on the world’s two oldest party systems—in the United Kingdom and United States—but we also discuss the French and German systems.
Market and Government Provision of Safety Nets and Social Welfare Spending in Historical Political Economy
Authors: Fishback Price
Published: January 2023

The safety nets in high-income countries before 1900 and in low-income countries today were based on savings and aid from extended family, friends, charities, churches, and small amounts from local governments. Mutual societies and eventually insurance companies offered insurance against lost earnings from sickness, injury, death, and old age. Germany led the way in mandating that employers provide benefits. Since 1900, higher-income nations have sharply increased public and private social welfare expenditures to well over 20 percent relative to GDP. A large share of this rise has come in increases in aid to the elderly and healthcare expenses, often in the form of contributory social insurance financed by payroll taxes on workers and employers. Meanwhile, noncontributory transfer programs for the poor have risen relatively little. In most countries, the employer’s share of payroll taxes is higher than the worker’s share. Some major countries have followed a path of reliance on private programs, which are largely financed by employers. Probably the most striking feature of social welfare programs worldwide is the very large variation in expenditures relative to GDP, in the categories of spending, and in the mix of taxation, private programs, and government programs.
Historical Persistence
Authors: Acharya Avidit , Blackwell Matthew , Sen Maya
Published: January 2023

Historical persistence refers to the idea that historical causes can have effects that persist long into the future. This chapter provides an overview of the literature on historical persistence, focusing on key substantive themes. It lays out a discussion of the theories behind historical persistence. It also considers some methodological issues that emerge in establishing causality and interpreting the empirical findings of the literature. Finally, the chapter concludes with a discussion of how the persistence literature could now benefit from a reorientation that seeks to answer the main open question in the literature: under what conditions does historical persistence take place, and under what conditions does it not?
The Relationship Between Marketing and Fundraising for Arts and Cultural Organizations
Authors: Lee Hyunjung , Ha Kyoungnam , Kim Youngseon
Published: January 2023

This chapter outlines the relationship between marketing and fundraising to extend our understanding of this topic and suggest future research directions. Arts and cultural organizations (ACOs) have adopted marketing concepts to enhance their financial viability and organizational performance. Fundraising is an essential part of the activities of ACOs, and understanding the role of marketing in fundraising is vital for practitioners and scholars. It is assumed that marketing plays a crucial role in helping with fundraising outcomes; however, research examining the relationship between marketing and fundraising has been scant. This chapter finds that ACOs have practiced marketing as a task-specific function rather than a holistic strategy, and that a marketing orientation and relationship marketing have been employed for fundraising. Based on these extensive research findings, the analysis suggests ways to take advantage of relationship marketing to emphasize donor retention and diversify the donor base. Finally, the conclusion proposes future research to investigate the effects of marketing strategies on fundraising performance.
A Social Value Judgment Model of Corporate Governance in Performing Arts Organizations
Authors: Suddaby Roy , Sherer Peter , Coraiola Diego , Schwonik Karl
Published: January 2023

This chapter theorizes the importance of social value judgments as a primary framework for understanding effective governance in performing arts organizations. Social value judgments are assessments of worth or value based on a specific set of assumptions contained within the value system that defines the status order in a given community. Status, reputation, legitimacy, and authenticity are each different categories of social value judgments. Prior theoretical approaches to corporate governance—agency theory, resource dependence theory, stakeholder theory, and institutional theory—show how governance practices in arts organizations help signal economic accountability through legitimacy. However, these theories fail to show how arts organizations signal artistic excellence through authenticity. The article reviews prior research on governance practices and strategic decision-making in performing arts organizations through the lens of social value judgment theory and offer a set of summary propositions that demonstrate the importance of adopting governance practices that effectively manage the essential tension between conflicting demands of legitimacy and authenticity.
Photosynthetic-Product–Dependent Activation of Plasma Membrane H+-ATPase and Nitrate Uptake inArabidopsisLeaves
Authors: Kinoshita Satoru N , Suzuki Takamasa , Kiba Takatoshi , Sakakibara Hitoshi , Kinoshita Toshinori
Published: January 2023

Plasma membrane (PM) proton-translocating adenosine triphosphatase (H+-ATPase) is a pivotal enzyme for plant growth and development that acts as a primary transporter and is activated by phosphorylation of the penultimate residue, threonine, at the C-terminus. Small Auxin-Up RNA family proteins maintain the phosphorylation level via inhibiting dephosphorylation of the residue by protein phosphatase 2C-D clade. Photosynthetically active radiation activates PM H+-ATPase via phosphorylation in mesophyll cells of Arabidopsis thaliana, and phosphorylation of PM H+-ATPase depends on photosynthesis and photosynthesis-related sugar supplementation, such as sucrose, fructose and glucose. However, the molecular mechanism and physiological role of photosynthesis-dependent PM H+-ATPase activation are still unknown. Analysis using sugar analogs, such as palatinose, turanose and 2-deoxy glucose, revealed that sucrose metabolites and products of glycolysis such as pyruvate induce phosphorylation of PM H+-ATPase. Transcriptome analysis showed that the novel isoform of the Small Auxin-Up RNA genes, SAUR30, is upregulated in a light- and sucrose-dependent manner. Time-course analyses of sucrose supplementation showed that the phosphorylation level of PM H+-ATPase increased within 10 min, but the expression level of SAUR30 increased later than 10 min. The results suggest that two temporal regulations may participate in the regulation of PM H+-ATPase. Interestingly, a 15NO3− uptake assay in leaves showed that light increases 15NO3− uptake and that increment of 15NO3− uptake depends on PM H+-ATPase activity. The results opened the possibility of the physiological role of photosynthesis-dependent PM H+-ATPase activation in the uptake of NO3−. We speculate that PM H+-ATPase may connect photosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism in leaves.
Formalizing tenure of Indigenous lands improved forest outcomes in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil
Authors: Benzeev Rayna , Zhang Sam , Rauber Marcelo Artur , Vance Eric A , Newton Peter
Published: January 2023

Across the globe, the legal land rights and tenure of many Indigenous peoples are yet to be recognized. A growing body of research demonstrates that tenure of Indigenous lands improves livelihoods and protects forests in addition to inherently recognizing human rights. However, the effect of tenure on environmental outcomes has scarcely been tested in regions with high development pressure, such as those with persisting forest–agriculture conflicts. In this paper, we conduct an event study and a difference-in-differences analysis to estimate the average treatment effect of land tenure on forest cover change for 129 Indigenous lands in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil from 1985 to 2019. We found that forest outcomes in Indigenous lands improved following tenure compared to pretenure and that forest outcomes improved in tenured compared to nontenured lands. We also found that formalized tenure, rather than incomplete tenure, was necessary to improve forest outcomes. Our study is the first rigorous analysis of the effect of tenure on Indigenous lands in the globally important Atlantic Forest biome and contributes to a growing body of literature on the role of rights-based approaches to conservation. The evidence presented in this study may support efforts to secure the legal rights and autonomy of Indigenous peoples.
Inhibition of Ehrlichia chaffeensis infection by cell-permeable macrocyclic peptides that bind type IV secretion effector Etf-1
Authors: Lin Mingqun , Koley Amritendu , Zhang Wenqing , Pei Dehua , Rikihisa Yasuko
Published: January 2023

Ehrlichia chaffeensis is an obligatory intracellular bacterium that infects monocytes and macrophages, and causes human monocytic ehrlichiosis, an emerging life-threatening infectious disease. Ehrlichia translocated factor-1 (Etf-1), a type IV secretion system effector, is essential for Ehrlichia infection of host cells. Etf-1 translocates to mitochondria to block host apoptosis; furthermore, it can bind Beclin 1 (ATG6) to induce cellular autophagy and localize to E. chaffeensis-inclusion membrane to obtain host-cell cytoplasmic nutrients. In this study, we screened a synthetic library of over 320,000 cell-permeable macrocyclic peptides, which consist of an ensemble of random peptide sequences in the first ring and a small family of cell-penetrating peptides in the second ring, for Etf-1 binding. Library screening followed by hit optimization identified multiple Etf-1-binding peptides (with KD values of 1–10 μM) that efficiently enter the cytosol of mammalian cells. Peptides B7, C8, B7-131-5, B7-133-3, and B7-133-8 significantly inhibited Ehrlichia infection of THP-1 cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that peptide B7 and its derivatives inhibited the binding of Etf-1 to Beclin 1, and Etf-1 localization to E. chaffeensis-inclusion membranes, but not Etf-1 localization to the mitochondria. Our results not only affirm the critical role of Etf-1 functions in E. chaffeensis infection, but also demonstrate the feasibility of developing macrocyclic peptides as powerful chemical probes and potential treatment of diseases caused by Ehrlichia and other intracellular pathogens.
Extracellular HSP90 promotes differentiation of lens epithelial cells to fiber cells by activating LRP1‐YAP‐PROX1 axis
Authors: Li Jing , Yu Jingjing , Huang Weikang , Sang Fan , Li Junmin , Ren Yanzhu , Huang Huili , Wang Mingli , Li Kejia , Zhang Jun , Li Hui , Cui Xiukun , Zhang Jing , Hu Mengyue , Yuan Fengling , Guo Weikai , Zhang Fengyan , Mu Hongmei , Hu Yanzhong
Published: January 2023

Capsular residual lens epithelial cells (CRLEC) undergo differentiation to fiber cells for lens regeneration or tansdifferentiation to myofibroblasts leading to posterior capsular opacification (PCO) after cataract surgery. The underlying regulatory mechanism remains unclear. Using human lens epithelial cell lines and the ex vivo cultured rat lens capsular bag model, we found that the lens epithelial cells secrete HSP90α extracellularly (eHSP90) through an autophagy‐associated pathway. Administration of recombinant GST‐HSP90α protein or its M‐domain induces the elongation of rat CRLEC cells with concomitant upregulation of the crucial fiber cell transcriptional factor PROX1and its downstream targets, β‐ and γ‐crystallins and structure proteins. This regulation is abolished by PROX1 siRNA. GST‐HSP90α upregulates PROX1 by binding to LRP1 and activating LRP1‐AKT mediated YAP degradation. The upregulation of GST‐HSP90α on PROX1 expression and CRLEC cell elongation is inhibited by LRP1 and AKT inhibitors, but activated by YAP‐1 inhibitor (VP). These data demonstrated that the capsular residue epithelial cells upregulate and secrete eHSP90α, which in turn drive the differentiation of lens epithelial cell to fiber cells. The recombinant HSP90α protein is a potential novel differentiation regulator during lens regeneration.
The road to pandemic recovery: Tracking COVID-19’s impact on cirrhosis care and outcomes among 111,558 Veterans
Authors: Adejumo Adeyinka C. , Yakovchenko Vera , Morgan Timothy R. , Spoutz Patrick , Chia Linda , Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Chang Michael F. , Dominitz Jason A. , Rogal Shari S.
Published: January 2023

Background & Aims:

This study aimed to evaluate quarterly trends in process and health outcomes among Veterans with cirrhosis and assess the factors associated with cirrhosis outcomes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Approach & Results:

US Veterans with cirrhosis were identified using the Veterans Health Administration Corporate Data Warehouse. Quarterly measures were evaluated from September 30, 2018, through March 31, 2022, including twice yearly screening for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC-6), new HCC, surveillance for or treatment of esophageal varices, variceal bleeding, all-cause hospitalization, and mortality. Joinpoint analyses were used to assess the changes in trends over time. Logistic regression models were used to identify the demographic and medical factors associated with each outcome over time. Among 111,558 Veterans with cirrhosis with a mean Model for End-stage Liver Disease-Sodium of 11±5, rates of HCC-6 sharply declined from a prepandemic peak of 41%, to a nadir of 28%, and rebounded to 36% by March 2022. All-cause mortality did not significantly change over the pandemic, but new HCC diagnosis, EVST, variceal bleeding, and all-cause hospitalization significantly declined over follow-up. Quarterly HCC diagnosis declined from 0.49% to 0.38%, EVST from 50% to 41%, variceal bleeding from 0.15% to 0.11%, and hospitalization from 9% to 5%. Rurality became newly, significantly associated with nonscreening over the pandemic (aOR for HCC−6=0.80, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.86; aOR for EVST=0.95, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.997).

Conclusions:

The pandemic continues to impact cirrhosis care. Identifying populations at the highest risk of care disruptions may help to address ongoing areas of need.
The Gap in Insurance Liability for Blood and Research Gamma Irradiators
Authors: Kamen Jacob , Abraham Elana , Perricelli Duane , Price Sarah , Golduber Robert
Published: January 2023

In 2019, a federal contractor accidently breached a 2,900 Ci 137Cs sealed source while decommissioning it from a University of Washington research building, releasing a single digit curie of its contents. This event contaminated 13 people as well as all seven floors of the research building, which housed the radiation source. Estimates for clean-up costs and lost revenue exceeded $150 million. The magnitude of this cost prompted licensees in possession of such radioactive sources to question whether their insurance coverage is adequate to cover a large-scale incident and if coverage for such exposure even exists. In this article, we identify potential gaps in commercially available insurance policies by evaluating and assessing associated risks, damages, and accountability. While insurance can mitigate the expense associated with remediation, it is unlikely that sufficient limits would exist to fully protect healthcare institutions from direct financial liability in the event that their radioactive sources are implicated in a nuclear, chemical, biological, or radiological (NCBR) (sometimes called CBRN in other literature) mass contamination event. This paper seeks to outline how the risks and liability to healthcare institutions having such gamma irradiators can be reduced significantly by removing them rather than seeking to insure against the cost of remediation in the event of a leak and/or mass contamination. As such, licensees are encouraged to check their policies for the correct coverage and make sure any coverage restriction is removed from their policies. In addition, licensees are also encouraged to explore financial incentives offered by the US government programs to not only dispose of their present gamma irradiator sources at no cost but also to provide financial support to replace them with alternative technologies.
Does Bupropion Increase Anxiety?
Authors: Poliacoff Zachary , Belanger Heather G. , Winsberg Mirène
Published: January 2023

Purpose/Background

There has long been a clinical belief that bupropion exacerbates anxiety. The purpose of the current retrospective study is to compare anxiety severity over time in those prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) versus bupropion.

Methods/Procedures

Archival data (N = 8457) from patients receiving psychiatric care from a national tele-mental health company were used. Propensity matching was used to create SSRI and bupropion groups using 17 covariates. These samples were then compared using repeated measures analysis of variance on Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale 7 scores at start of treatment, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks.

Findings/Results

The SSRI and bupropion groups were significantly different across a number of variables. In the entire sample, the bupropion group had significantly greater anxiety levels. However, for propensity-matched comparisons, there were no significant interactions between group and time (ie, groups did not differ and improved comparably over time).

Implications/Conclusions

Using propensity matching, there were no differences in anxiety outcome between those prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor versus bupropion across 12 weeks of treatment.
Gender-Affirming Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Care
Authors: Mackler Camille D. , Williams Jessica R. , Sharpe Leslie
Published: January 2023

Background

Transgender and non-binary (trans*) individuals face disproportionately high rates of sexual violence yet experience discrimination at rape crisis centers (RCCs). Sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) who receive targeted education are better equipped to care for the trans* community.

Aims

This quality improvement project aimed to increase SANEs' self-perceived competence in caring for trans* assault survivors. The secondary purpose was to promote a trans*-inclusive environment at an RCC based on an environmental assessment.

Methods

The project involved creating and implementing a virtual continuing education course on providing gender-affirming and trans*-specific care for sexual assault survivors and an environmental evaluation at an RCC. A questionnaire measured SANEs' perceived competency pretraining and posttraining, and paired t tests were conducted to examine the change in competencies. A modified assessment tool was used to evaluate the RCC's capacity for addressing trans* survivors needs.

Results

The training increased self-perceived competency in all four components measured (p < 0.005). More than one third of participants (36.4%, n = 22) indicated having no expertise, and 63.7% reported having some expertise in caring for trans* clients. Two thirds (66.7%) had prior trans*-specific training; however, only 18.2% received trans*-specific content in their SANE training. Most strongly agreed (68.2%) they would benefit from additional training. The organizational assessment identified key areas for improvement.

Conclusions

Trans*-specific training can significantly impact SANEs' self-perceived competency in caring for trans* assault survivors and is feasible and acceptable. This training could have a global impact on SANEs if disseminated more widely, particularly with inclusion in SANE curriculum guidelines.
Growth After Menarche in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Salguero Maria V. , Deplewski Dianne , Gokhale Ranjana , Wroblewski Kristen , Sentongo Timothy , Jan Aseel , Kirschner Barbara S.
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

Growth impairment in pediatric patients with pediatric onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is multifactorial. Reports on the effect of age at menarche on adult stature in this population are limited. This study investigated the impact of age at menarche, disease-associated factors, and mid-parental height on growth from menarche to final height (FHt) in pediatric patients with Crohn disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) and IBD unclassified (IBD-U).

Methods:

Subjects were enrolled from a prospectively maintained pediatric IBD database when IBD preceded menarche and dates of menarche and FHt measurements were recorded.

Results:

One hundred forty-six patients: CD 112 and UC 30/IBD-U 4. Mean age (years) at diagnosis (10.9 vs 10.1), menarche (14.4 vs 14.0), and FHt (19.6 vs 19.7). CD and UC/IBD-U patients showed significant association between Chronological age (CA) at menarche and FHt (cm, P < 0.001) but not FHt z score (FHt-Z) < −1.0 (P = 0.42). FHt-Z < −2.0 occurred in only 5 patients. Growth impairment (FHt-Z < −1.0) was associated with surgery before menarche (P = 0.03), jejunal disease (P = 0.003), low mid-parental height z score (MPH-Z) (P < 0.001), hospitalization for CD (P = 0.03) but not UC, recurrent corticosteroid, or anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNFα) therapy.

Conclusions:

Early age of menarche was associated with greater potential for linear growth to FHt but not FHt-Z (P < 0.05). Surgery before menarche, jejunal disease, hospitalization for CD, low MPH, and weight z score were associated with FHt-Z < −1.0.
Impact of Routine Gastric Aspirate Monitoring on Very Low Birth Weight Early Preterm Infants
Authors: Mangalapally Nikitha , Patel Shruti , Schofield Erin M. , Capriolo Christine , Davis Natalie L.
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

Routine gastric aspirate (RGA) monitoring is a common yet controversial practice intended for early identification of gastrointestinal pathology in infants receiving gavage feeds. Our objectives were to evaluate the association of ceasing RGA monitoring on the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) as well as nutritional outcomes in a large population of very low birth weight (VLBW) and very preterm neonates.

Methods:

Retrospective record review of neonates born ≤32 weeks and/or VLBW from 2 cohorts: (1) during pre-feed RGA monitoring (September 2015 to June 2018) and (2) after cessation of RGA (“non-RGA”) monitoring (July 2018 to December 2020). We compared incidence of NEC, time-to-full enteral feeds, central line duration, and duration of parenteral nutrition (PN) in bivariate and multivariable models accounting for changes in feeding protocols over time.

Results:

We identified 617 subjects, 53% in the RGA monitoring cohort (n = 327) and 47% in non-RGA cohort (n = 290). The non-RGA cohort had feeds initiated earlier (P < 0.0001), achieved full enteral feeds more rapidly (P < 0.0001), received a shorter duration of PN (P = 0.0003), and had shorter central access duration (P < 0.0001) without increasing NEC risk. In fact, the non-RGA cohort had a lower incidence of NEC (P = 0.0345) compared to the RGA cohort. Even after adjusting for changes in feeding protocols over time in a multivariable model, the RGA cohort had significantly higher odds of NEC.

Conclusions:

Pre-feed RGA monitoring in the absence of concerning clinical exam findings is not indicated for neonates receiving gavage feeds as it does not improve NEC incidence but instead may delay important nutritional outcomes such as feed initiation and central line removal.
Response of Central Giant Cell Granuloma of the Jaw to Imatinib
Authors: Tallent Brian , Padilla Ricardo J. , McKay Charles , Foreman Ann Katherine M. , Fan Zheng , Blatt Julie
Published: January 2023

Central giant cell granuloma of the jaw (CGCJ) can be locally aggressive and result in facial and dental deformity. A child with CGCJ was treated surgically and with denosumab with a response but life-threatening toxicity. Imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, was prescribed based on clinical similarities between CGCJ and cherubism, for which Imatinib has been effective. Within 2 months, a computed tomographic scan showed significant ossification, which increased over the following 8 months. This case suggests that tyrosine kinase inhibitors may be an effective option, and one with limited toxicity, for CGCJ.
Topical Review: Studies on Management of Myopia Progression from 2019 to 2021
Authors: Lanca Carla , Repka Michael X. , Grzybowski Andrzej
Published: January 2023

SIGNIFICANCE

Myopia is a common eye condition that increases the risk of sight-threatening complications. Each additional diopter increases the chance of complications. The purpose of this review was to make an overview of myopia control treatment options for children with myopia progression.

In this nonsystematic review, we searched PubMed and Cochrane databases for English-language studies published from 2019 to September 2021. Emphasis was given to selection of randomized controlled trials. Nineteen randomized controlled trials and two retrospective studies were included. Topical atropine and orthokeratology remain the most used treatments, whereas lenses with novel designs are emerging treatments. Overall myopia progression in the treatment groups for low-dose atropine and orthokeratology was lower than in the control groups, and their efficacy was reported in several randomized controlled trials and confirmed by various systematic reviews and meta-analysis. The findings of myopia progression and axial elongation for the MiSight, defocus incorporated multiple segment spectacle lens, highly aspherical lenslets, and diffusion optics technology spectacle lens were comparable. Public health interventions to optimize environmental influences may also be important strategies to control myopia. Optimal choice of management of myopia depends on treatment availability, acceptability to child and parents, and specific patient features such as age, baseline myopia, and lifestyle. Eye care providers need to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each therapy to best counsel parents of children with myopia.
Clinical Outcomes of a Randomized Trial with Contact Lenses for Astigmatic Myopia Management
Authors: Tomiyama Erin S. , Richdale Kathryn
Published: January 2023

SIGNIFICANCE

There are limited treatment options for myopia management of patients with moderate to high astigmatism. This work directly compares toric orthokeratology and soft toric multifocal lenses to show differences in visual acuity and patient satisfaction that could impact clinical care. Toric orthokeratology caused reduced visual acuity but was preferred subjectively for vision and overall.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to quantify objective and subjective clinical differences between toric orthokeratology and soft toric multifocal contact lenses in the same cohort of myopic wearers with moderate to high astigmatism.

METHODS

Thirty adults with refractive myopia (plano to −5.00 D) and astigmatism (1.25 to 3.50 D) were fitted empirically with both toric orthokeratology and soft toric multifocal contact lenses. Participants wore lenses for 10 days in random order, separated by a 14-day washout period. High-contrast visual acuity, low-contrast visual acuity, and glare logMAR visual acuity were measured. Surveys ascertained subject preference for comfort, vision, handling, and cost. Friedman, Wilcoxon signed rank, and χ
2 tests were performed.

RESULTS

A subset of participants (n = 17) who achieved good vision with both lens types was analyzed. High-contrast and glare acuity with toric orthokeratology were reduced by one line compared with soft toric multifocal lenses (both 0.00 vs. −0.10, P ≤ .003). Participants preferred toric orthokeratology for vision (P ≤ .03) but soft toric multifocal lenses for handling (P ≤ .006). When forced to choose between lens types, participants preferred toric orthokeratology for vision and overall (both P ≤ .007).

CONCLUSIONS

Participants who achieved good vision with both lens types preferred toric orthokeratology over soft toric multifocal lenses, despite reduced high-contrast and glare visual acuity. Further research is needed to understand the relationship between visual performance and patient satisfaction.
Choroidal Thickness Profiles and Associated Factors in Myopic Children
Authors: Kobia-Acquah Emmanuel , Flitcroft Daniel Ian , Lingham Gareth , Paudel Nabin , Loughman James
Published: January 2023

SIGNIFICANCE

This study addresses the lack of choroidal thickness (ChT) profile information available in European children and provides a baseline for further evaluation of longitudinal changes in ChT profiles in myopic children as a potential biomarker for myopia treatment and identifying children at risk of myopic progression.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate ChT profiles and associated factors in myopic children.

METHODS

Baseline data of 250 myopic children aged 6 to 16 years in the Myopia Outcome Study of Atropine in Children clinical trial were analyzed. Choroidal thickness images were obtained using swept-source optical coherence tomography (DRI-OCT Triton Plus; Topcon Corporation, Tokyo, Japan). The macula was divided into nine Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study locations with diameters of 1, 3, and 6 mm corresponding to the central fovea, parafoveal, and perifoveal regions. Multiple linear regression models were used to investigate determinants of ChT.

RESULTS

Choroidal thickness varied across the macular Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study locations (P < .001): thickest in the perifoveal superior region (mean ± standard deviation, 249.0 ± 60.8 μm) and thinnest in the perifoveal nasal region (155.1 ± 50.3 μm). On average, ChT was greater in all parafoveal (231.8 ± 57.8 μm) compared with perifoveal (218.1 ± 49.1 μm) regions except superiorly where the ChT was greater in the perifoveal region. Longer axial length and higher myopic spherical equivalent refraction were consistently associated with thinner ChT at all locations in the multiple linear regression models. Asian race was significantly associated with thinner ChT only at parafoveal and perifoveal superior regions after Bonferroni correction (P = .004 and P = .001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Choroidal thickness was thinnest in the nasal macular region and varied systematically across all macular locations, with axial length and spherical equivalent refraction being the strongest determinants of ChT. Longitudinal evidence will need to evaluate whether any differences in ChT profiles are predictive of myopic progression and to determine the role of ChT measurements in identifying myopic children most in need of myopia control treatment.
Pharmacotherapeutic Interventions in People Living With HIV Undergoing Solid Organ Transplantation: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lam Cindy , Landry Sébastien , Moussa Ghina , Sakr Dania , Varinot Gabriel , Mousseau Katherine , Martel Dominic , Frenette Anne Julie , Ambaraghassi Georges , Rouleau Danielle , Cantarovich Marcelo , Klein Marina B. , Sheehan Nancy L. , Lemire Benoît
Published: January 2023

Background.

The pharmacotherapeutic management of people living with HIV (PLWHIV) undergoing solid organ transplantation (SOT) is clinically challenging, mainly due to the frequent occurrence of complex drug–drug interactions. Although various strategies have been proposed to improve treatment outcomes in these patients, several uncertainties remain, and consensus practice guidelines are just beginning to emerge. The main objective of this scoping review was to map the extent of the literature on the pharmacotherapeutic interventions performed by healthcare professionals for PLWHIV undergoing SOT.

Methods.

We searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane databases as well as gray literature for articles published between January 2010 and February 2020. Study selection was performed by at least 2 independent reviewers. Articles describing pharmacotherapeutic interventions in PLWHIV considered for or undergoing SOT were included in the study.

Results.

Of the 12 599 references identified through our search strategy, 209 articles met the inclusion criteria. Results showed that the vast majority of reported pharmacotherapeutic interventions concerned the management of immunosuppressive and antimicrobial therapy, including antiretrovirals. Analysis of the data demonstrated that for several aspects of the pharmacotherapeutic management of PLWHIV undergoing SOT, there were differing practices, such as the choice of immunosuppressive induction and maintenance therapy. Other important aspects of patient management, such as patient counseling, were rarely reported.

Conclusions.

Our results constitute an extensive overview of current practices in the pharmacotherapeutic management of SOT in PLWHIV and identify knowledge gaps that should be addressed to help improve patient care in this specific population.
Interventions for generalized anxiety disorder
Authors: Byrne Gerard J.
Published: January 2023

Purpose of review

To provide an overview of recently published work on anxiety, focusing on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and its treatment.

Recent findings

Self-reported anxiety symptoms were highly prevalent during the COVID-19 global pandemic in both the general population and in selected groups. There remains divided opinion about whether internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is noninferior to face-to-face CBT for GAD. A systematic review of drug treatment for GAD showed efficacy for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), agomelatine, and quetiapine. There may be a place for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of GAD. There was some evidence of efficacy for complementary therapies, including physical exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha). However, a systematic review of cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol found insufficient evidence of efficacy in anxiety disorders.

Antidepressants and quetiapine show efficacy in the treatment of GAD. Internet-based psychological interventions have a place in the treatment of GAD when face-to-face treatment is inaccessible. There is increasing evidence for the use of physical exercise in the management of GAD. Some other complementary therapies, including cannabinoids, require further, methodologically sound, research.
Immunoreactivity against SLC3A2 in high grade gliomas displays positive correlation with glioblastoma patient survival: Potential target for glioma diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Karakaş Nihal , Topcu Ozan , Tüzün Erdem , Kahraman Özlem Timirci , Sabancı Pulat Akın , Aras Yavuz , Yetimler Berrak , Ünverengil Gökçen , Bilgiç Mebrure Bilge , Shah Khalid , Körkaya Hasan
Published: January 2023

Immunity against cancer cells is at the forefront of fight against highly malignant tumors like glioblastomas (GBM). Autoantibodies and their autoantigen cooperators are one of the promising biomarkers linked to the immune responses and have been reported as having an initiative or prognostic role for certain types of paraneoplastic disorders. Nevertheless, immunoreactivity against antigens expressed in GBM are poorly studied. To date, autoantibodies were identified by pursuing targeted approaches. By contrast, in this study, we collected human GBM tissue and sera samples and by applying proteomics analysis, we determined autoantigen candidates for GBM. Subsequent immunohistochemistry and immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that a solute carrier; SLC3A2 is widely overexpressed in GBMs and therefore, immunoreactivity against SLC3A2 is present in high grade GBM, and SLC3A2 expression is altered in GBMs. No antibody interaction was detected in SLC3A2 expressors of low grade gliomas. Furthermore, autoantibody presence was correlated with prolonged survival of GBM patients. Taken together, for the first time, we reported that the SLC3A2 immunoreaction exists in high grade gliomas with a distinct GBM profile. In conclusion, our findings may open up new avenues for our understanding of glioma prognosis in the context of autoimmunity. This may eventually lead to diagnostic and therapeutic inventions that can be utilized for prevention of the disease progression.
Photon-shot-noise-limited transient absorption soft X-ray spectroscopy at the European XFEL
Authors: Le Guyader Loïc , Eschenlohr Andrea , Beye Martin , Schlotter William , Döring Florian , Carinan Cammille , Hickin David , Agarwal Naman , Boeglin Christine , Bovensiepen Uwe , Buck Jens , Carley Robert , Castoldi Andrea , D'Elia Alessandro , Delitz Jan-Torben , Ehsan Wajid , Engel Robin , Erdinger Florian , Fangohr Hans , Fischer Peter , Fiorini Carlo , Föhlisch Alexander , Gelisio Luca , Gensch Michael , Gerasimova Natalia , Gort Rafael , Hansen Karsten , Hauf Steffen , Izquierdo Manuel , Jal Emmanuelle , Kamil Ebad , Kämmerer Lea , Karabekyan Suren , Kluyver Thomas , Laarmann Tim , Lojewski Tobias , Lomidze David , Maffessanti Stefano , Mamyrbayev Talgat , Marcelli Augusto , Mercadier Laurent , Mercurio Giuseppe , Miedema Piter S. , Ollefs Katharina , Rossnagel Kai , Rösner Benedikt , Rothenbach Nico , Samartsev Andrey , Schlappa Justine , Setoodehnia Kiana , Sorin Chiuzbaian Gheorghe , Stamm Christian , Stellato Francesco , Techert Simone , Teichmann Martin , Turcato Monica , Van Kuiken Benjamin , Wende Heiko , Yaroslavtsev Alexander , Zhu Jun , Molodtsov Serguei , David Christian , Porro Matteo , Scherz Andreas
Published: January 2023

Femtosecond transient soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is a very promising technique that can be employed at X-ray free-electron lasers (FELs) to investigate out-of-equilibrium dynamics for material and energy research. Here, a dedicated setup for soft X-rays available at the Spectroscopy and Coherent Scattering (SCS) instrument at the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser (European XFEL) is presented. It consists of a beam-splitting off-axis zone plate (BOZ) used in transmission to create three copies of the incoming beam, which are used to measure the transmitted intensity through the excited and unexcited sample, as well as to monitor the incoming intensity. Since these three intensity signals are detected shot by shot and simultaneously, this setup allows normalized shot-by-shot analysis of the transmission. For photon detection, an imaging detector capable of recording up to 800 images at 4.5 MHz frame rate during the FEL burst is employed, and allows a photon-shot-noise-limited sensitivity to be approached. The setup and its capabilities are reviewed as well as the online and offline analysis tools provided to users.
Comparison of heat transfer enhancement between open and closed cell porous metal structures for solid–liquid phase change
Authors: Wang Chunyang , Sugiura Takuma , Mobedi Moghtada , Chen Haisheng
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze heat transfer for solid–liquid phase change in two inclined cavities assisted with open cell and closed cell porous structures for enhancement of heat transfer and compare them.

Design/methodology/approach

The heat transfer analysis is done numerically. The set of conservation equations for mass, momentum and energy for phase change material (PCM) and conduction heat transfer equation for metal frame are solved. Furthermore, temperature and solid–liquid fraction distributions for a cavity filled only with PCM are also obtained for comparison. The porosity is 0.9 for both porous structures. Rayleigh number and inclination angle change from 1 to 108, and from −90° to 90°, respectively.

Findings

The present study reveals that the use of closed cell structures not only can make phase change faster than open cell structure (except for Ra = 108 and = 90°) but also provide more stable process. The use of a closed cell porous structure in a cavity with PCM can reduce melting period up to 55% more than a cavity with an open cell porous structure. The rate of this additional enhancement depends on Rayleigh number and inclination angle.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that the comparison between closed cell and open cell porous structures for heat transfer enhancement in a solid/liquid phase change process is reported. Authors believe that the present study will lead more attentions on the use of closed cell porous structures.
Tackling wicked problems in performance management and governance of public health: an empirical analysis of COVID-19 vaccination strategies
Authors: Noto Guido , Prenestini Anna , Cosenz Federico , Barresi Gustavo
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Public health strategies and activities are intrinsically complex. According to the literature, this “wickedness” depends on the different interests and expectations of the stakeholders and the community, the fragmented governance of the related services and the challenges in measuring and assessing public health outcomes. Existent performance measures and management systems for public health are not designed to cope with wickedness since they are mainly focused on inputs and outputs, neglecting broader outcomes because of their long-term impact and the poor accountability of results. This research aims to tackle this shortfall by adopting a dynamic performance management (DPM) approach.

Design/methodology/approach

This research explores the case of the vaccination campaign of a Regional Health System. Through the analysis of an illustrative case study, the research discusses both opportunities and limits of the proposed approach.

Findings

This research highlights that DPM supports performance management (PM) in wicked contexts, thanks to the adoption of a system-wide perspective and the possibility of using simulation to experiment with alternative strategies and benchmarking performance results with simulated trends.

Originality/value

This article tackles a gap related to the management of wicked problems both from a theory and a practical perspective. In particular, this research suggests the adoption of DPM as an approach that may support policymakers in tackling social pluralism, institutional complexity and scientific uncertainty all at once.
Reproducing in hot water: Experimental heatwaves deteriorate multiple reproductive traits in a freshwater ectotherm
Authors: Breedveld Merel C. , Devigili Alessandro , Borgheresi Oliviero , Gasparini Clelia
Published: January 2023

Heatwaves are occurring at an increasing frequency and intensity under ongoing climate change. As many reproductive traits—including mating behaviour and gamete traits—are sensitive even to small temperature changes, the impact of heatwaves on reproduction and sexual selection processes is likely to be vast. Also, evaluating whether the sexes respond differently to these extreme events is crucial to understand the impact on fecundity and the consequences at the population level. Nonetheless, our knowledge of the effects of heatwaves on these key aspects of animal life is still limited.

Here, we expose recently mated male and female guppies Poecilia reticulata to an experimental heatwave (32°C, 6°C above the control, for 5 days) to determine its effects on several traits, including sexual behaviour, condition, ornamentation and fertility. Using this design, in contrast to alternative experimental setups, we had the possibility to attribute the effects of the heatwave to males' and females' reproductive traits independently.

Overall, our results indicate that heatwaves can drastically affect key reproductive traits and unravel sex‐specific responses. In males, there was no effect of the heatwave on survival, but both pre‐ and postcopulatory reproductive traits were affected. After the heatwave, we detected a decrease in orange colouration (the most important ornament on which female choice is based) and the overall level of sexual activity, and a shift in the preferred mating tactic towards forced copulation attempts. The latter suggests implications in sexual conflict dynamics, as forced copulations override female mate choice. Also, after the heatwave, males had more sperm but of lower quality, and, in addition, an increased variance in sperm number. Overall, heatwaves may thus result in a compromised ability to secure matings and fertilizations. In females, the heatwave significantly affected survival, with increased mortality in the short term, and impaired fecundity, with many females from the heatwave treatment not reproducing at all.

The negative effects of heatwaves on key reproductive traits unravelled by our study could have major implications for population dynamics and persistence. It highlights the need for further studies on how these extreme events affect reproduction, to improve our understanding of the impacts of climate change.

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