bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibrating validation samples when accounting for measurement error in intervention studies
Authors: Ackerman Benjamin , Siddique Juned , Stuart Elizabeth A
Published: February 2021

Many lifestyle intervention trials depend on collecting self-reported outcomes, such as dietary intake, to assess the intervention’s effectiveness. Self-reported outcomes are subject to measurement error, which impacts treatment effect estimation. External validation studies measure both self-reported outcomes and accompanying biomarkers, and can be used to account for measurement error. However, in order to account for measurement error using an external validation sample, an assumption must be made that the inferences are transportable from the validation sample to the intervention trial of interest. This assumption does not always hold. In this paper, we propose an approach that adjusts the validation sample to better resemble the trial sample, and we also formally investigate when bias due to poor transportability may arise. Lastly, we examine the performance of the methods using simulation, and illustrate them using PREMIER, a lifestyle intervention trial measuring self-reported sodium intake as an outcome, and OPEN, a validation study measuring both self-reported diet and urinary biomarkers.
Book review: Manisha Chaudhary, Kasturba Gandhi: A Bio-Fiction
Authors: Ladda Nitika
Published: February 2021

Manisha Chaudhary, Kasturba Gandhi: A Bio-Fiction. New Delhi, India: Niyogi Books, 2018. 424 pages, ₹795.
Prevalence and Demographic Differences in Work as a Calling in the United States: Results From a Nationally Representative Sample
Authors: White Micah J. , Marsh Dylan R. , Dik Bryan J. , Beseler Cheryl L.
Published: February 2021

Within the last two decades, social science research on work as a calling has rapidly grown. To date, knowledge regarding prevalence and demographic differences of calling in the United States derives from data collected mainly from regionally limited and/or occupationally homogenous samples. The present study used data from the Portraits of American Life Study, a nationally stratified panel study of religion in the United States (U.S.), to estimate calling’s prevalence in the U.S. Our findings represent the first known population estimates of seeking, perceiving, and living a calling in the U.S. Results revealed that calling is a relevant concept for many U.S. adults, with 43% endorsing “mostly true” or “totally true” to the statement “I have a calling to a particular kind of work.” Small differences for presence of and search for a calling emerged across age groups, employment statuses, and levels of importance of God or spirituality. For living a calling, significant differences were identified only for importance of God or spirituality, contrasting with previous findings that suggested that living a calling varies as a function of income and social status. Implications for research and practice are explored.
The Fear of COVID-19 Scale: A Reliability Generalization Meta-Analysis
Authors: Blázquez-Rincón Desirée , Durán Juan I. , Botella Juan
Published: February 2021

A reliability generalization meta-analysis was carried out to estimate the average reliability of the seven-item, 5-point Likert-type Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), one of the most widespread scales developed around the COVID-19 pandemic. Different reliability coefficients from classical test theory and the Rasch Measurement Model were meta-analyzed, heterogeneity among the most reported reliability estimates was examined by searching for moderators, and a predictive model to estimate the expected reliability was proposed. At least one reliability estimate was available for a total of 44 independent samples out of 42 studies, being that Cronbach’s alpha was most frequently reported. The coefficients exhibited pooled estimates ranging from .85 to .90. The moderator analyses led to a predictive model in which the standard deviation of scores explained 36.7% of the total variability among alpha coefficients. The FCV-19S has been shown to be consistently reliable regardless of the moderator variables examined.
Kainga (families) experiences of a Tongan-Indigenous faith-based violence-prevention programme
Authors: Havea Sesimani , Alefaio-Tugia Siautu , Hodgetts Darrin
Published: February 2021

Christianity is an embedded value system within Pacific cultures that is now being employed to inform efforts to address social issues such as family violence. This article chronicles a Tongan woman’s cultural immersion with 49 Tongan church kainga (families) who participated in the Tongan faith-based Kainga Tu’umalie (Prosperous families) family violence programme. Talanoa (Pacific-Indigenous way of engaging families in research) with three kainga is drawn upon to highlight the impact of the programme in re-awakening the need to rebuild positive familial relationships based on core Tongan Christian values. More broadly, accounts from the kainga foreground the importance of interweaving spiritual faith and Indigenous knowledge in efforts to address family violence. This research also speaks to the importance of leveraging collaborative partnerships between community-based agencies and faith-based communities in addressing social issues.
A New Sensibility towards Unfinished Ruins: Affective Knowledge Translation through Experimental Video
Authors: Arboleda Pablo
Published: February 2021

In the last 50 years, and due to a dilapidation of funds, hundreds of public works have remained unfinished in Italy, most especially in Sicily. In 2007, the group of artists Alterazioni Video declared these modern ruins a formal architectural style—so-called Incompiuto Siciliano— through which they aim to change the buildings’ negative perception, turning it into something positive. In September 2015, I carried out an urban exploration journey during which I visited a dozen Incompiuto Siciliano works all across Sicily in one week. Based on that journey, this paper argues that a renewed sensibility towards incompletion necessarily requires original and creative methods to translate the affective knowledge gained in these sites. Therefore, through the use of personal narratives and the creation of three different experimental videos, the aim is to advance the way we translate embodied encounters with these spaces. This is relevant not only in the context of modern ruins but in further unruly spaces where aesthetic experiences emerge.
Persistent severe lymphopenia 5 years after dimethyl fumarate discontinuation
Authors: Caldito Natalia Gonzalez , O’Leary Shirley , Stuve Olaf
Published: February 2021

One known adverse event associated with dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is grade III lymphopenia which usually resolves within 2–3 months upon DMF discontinuation. Here, we report a case of a 50-year-old woman with MS who developed grade III lymphopenia within 6 months of DMF initiation, and despite treatment cessation within the next 6 months, she has continued to have severe persistent lymphopenia for over 5 years. Our observation suggests prolonged and possibly irreversible lymphopenia as a possible adverse event of DMF, and it emphasizes the need for monitoring lymphocyte numbers, and to cease dosing promptly after onset of grade III lymphopenia.
Persisting lymphopenia and dimethyl fumarate: A clinical commentary
Authors: Diem Lara , Chan Andrew
Published: February 2021

Severe prolonged lymphopenia as rare side-effect of dimethyl fumarate is mostly reversible. Caldito et al. report a case of persistent severe lymphopenia over 5 years after discontinuation of dimethyl fumarate. We discuss several clinical implications. Safe withdrawal of disease modifying therapies in terms of reoccurrence of disease activity and drug related adverse events need further attention as our treatment armamentarium continues to grow.
Antidepressant use in Sweden: an intersectional multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (MAIHDA)
Authors: Ljungman Hanna , Wemrell Maria , Khalaf Kani , Perez-Vicente Raquel , Leckie George , Merlo Juan
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

Antidepressants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in Sweden. However, we lack detailed knowledge on the socioeconomic and demographic distribution of antidepressant use in the population. To fill this gap, we performed an intersectional multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy.

Methods:

Analysing all Swedish residents older than 10 years ( n=8,190,990), we measured the absolute risk of antidepressant use across 144 intersectional strata defined by combinations of age, gender, income, country of birth and psychiatric diagnosis. We calculated the strata-specific absolute risk of antidepressant use in a series of multilevel logistic regression models. By means of the variance partitioning coefficient and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, we quantified the discriminatory accuracy of the intersectional contexts (i.e. strata) for discerning those who use antidepressants from those who do not.

Results:

The absolute risk of antidepressant use ranged between 0.93% and 24.78% among those without a psychiatric diagnosis, and between 21.41% and 77.56% among those with a psychiatric diagnosis. Both the variance partitioning coefficient of 41.88% and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.81 were considerable.

Conclusions:

Besides overt psychiatric diagnoses, our study shows that antidepressant use is mainly conditioned by age, which might express the embodiment of socioeconomic conditions across the individual life course. Our analysis provides a detailed and highly discriminatory mapping of the heterogeneous distribution of antidepressant use in the Swedish population, which may be useful in public health management.
The Danish National Youth Study 2019: study design and participant characteristics
Authors: Pisinger Veronica Sofie Clara , Thorsted Anne , Jezek Andrea Huber , Jørgensen Andreas , Christensen Anne Illemann , Tolstrup Janne Schurmann , Thygesen Lau Caspar
Published: February 2021

Aim:

To present the study design, study population and questionnaire content of the Danish National Youth Study 2019, and to describe the differences between participants and non-participants regarding demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.

Method:

The Danish National Youth Study 2019 is a nationwide web-survey among high school students in Denmark. Data was collected from January to April 2019 through a self-administered questionnaire in the classroom. The questionnaire included 120 questions on, for example, physical and mental health, health behaviour and well-being. Data collection took place at 50 general high schools, 32 preparatory high schools, 15 commercial high school and 19 technical high schools.

Results:

A total of 29,086 students participated (20,287 general high school students, 2,113 preparatory higher school students, 4027 commercial high school students and 2659 technical high school students) corresponding to 66% of the students in the 88 participating schools (31% of invited schools). Among students, 55% were female and the mean age was 17.8 years. Participants were more likely to be female, to be younger, to be of Danish origin, and have family disposable income in the highest quartile compared to non-participants.

Conclusions:

The Danish National Youth Study 2019 contributes to knowledge on high school students’ health, health behaviour and well-being that can support health planning and prioritizing, through identification of specific risk groups at both local and national level. The study also offers great opportunities for future research as it provides possibility of linkage to various Danish national registers.
Quantitative investigation on the impact of injection timing on soot formation in a GDI engine with a customized sectional method
Authors: Fontanesi Stefano , Del Pecchia Marco , Pessina Valentina , Sparacino Simone , Di Iorio Silvana
Published: February 2021

Soot engine-out emissions are no longer a prerogative of Diesel engines. Emission regulations related to Gasoline units aim to curb the soot emissions along with other pollutants. In this scenario, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a very promising research and development tool to explore the influence of engine design and operational parameters, as well as of the fuel chemical nature, on the particulate matter formation. Among the soot models, the Sectional Method is an advanced resource to provide information on Particle Number, Particulate Mass and Particle Size Distribution. In this study, the Sectional Method is applied in conjunction with a customized soot library, where the source terms governing the soot sections transport equations are stored. The library is computed via chemical kinetics simulation of a 0D constant pressure reactor, which provides fuel-related coefficients for each individual source term over the entire range of conditions experienced by the 3D-CFD model. 3D-CFD simulations are then carried out for three different injection timings without case-by-case tuning. Numerical results are then compared to the experimental dataset by using a consistent methodology. A satisfactory agreement between 3D-CFD results and experimental measurements is reached for soot mass and particle numbers, while the particle size distribution function is only partially reproduced. Soot-related quantities are thoroughly analyzed for each of the examined injection strategies to understand the mechanisms leading to soot formation and emissions.
Numerical simulation and experimental validation of cavitating flow in a multi-hole diesel fuel injector
Authors: Kumar Aishvarya , Ghobadian Ali , Nouri Jamshid
Published: February 2021

This study assesses the predictive capability of the ZGB (Zwart-Gerber-Belamri) cavitation model with the RANS (Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes), the realizable k-epsilon turbulence model, and compressibility of gas/liquid models for cavitation simulation in a multi-hole fuel injector at different cavitation numbers (CN) for diesel and biodiesel fuels. The prediction results were assessed quantitatively by comparison of predicted velocity profiles with those of measured LDV (Laser Doppler Velocimetry) data. Subsequently, predictions were assessed qualitatively by visual comparison of the predicted void fraction with experimental CCD (Charged Couple Device) recorded images. Both comparisons showed that the model could predict fluid behavior in such a condition with a high level of confidence. Additionally, flow field analysis of numerical results showed the formation of vortices in the injector sac volume. The analysis showed two main types of vortex structures formed. The first kind appeared connecting two adjacent holes and is known as “hole-to-hole” connecting vortices. The second type structure appeared as double “counter-rotating” vortices emerging from the needle wall and entering the injector hole facing it. The use of RANS proved to save significant computational cost and time in predicting the cavitating flow with good accuracy.
Patterns of actorship in legitimation of educational changes: The role of transnational and local knowledge
Authors: Wirthová Jitka
Published: February 2021

This paper examines how different meanings of knowledge (transnational, comparative, statistical, local, and personal) relationally stabilise the agential position for the legitimation of educational reform across state and non-state actors. Analysing the materiality and systems of reason of proposals to reform education in the pre-election debates in the Czech Republic, the focus is placed on different patterns of legitimate and legitimating actorship, assembled from global and local relations. Through an ecological conceptualisation the research identifies the problematisation and decomposition of actorship into contradictory assemblages of both traditional actors (teachers and politicians) and relatively new ones (NGOs). The relationship of the civil sector and the state structures allowed the emergence of new non-state, non-professional actors (NGOs) who aggregate their expertise from transnational data and legitimate both their position as experts and the particular educational change. This has consequences for non-experts as politicians and teachers. The transnational and European context penetrated into the Czech educational sphere not through an elite class of system actors but through the representatives of NGOs. Rhetorically saving education from degradation, NGOs engage in spreading the transnational data and externalise the legitimation of educational reform and thus become the bearers (although agentially limited) of the European space.
Long-Term Survival of a Patient with Recurrent Dedifferentiated High-Grade Liposarcoma of the Retroperitoneum Under Adjuvant Treatment with Viscum album L. Extract: A Case Report
Authors: Reynel María , Villegas Yván , Werthmann Paul G. , Kiene Helmut , Kienle Gunver S.
Published: February 2021

Retroperitoneal sarcomas are rare. Dedifferentiated liposarcomas (DDLs) are high-grade tumors with a high propensity for local recurrence and metastasis and are associated with reduced survival. Radical resection remains the standard treatment of sarcomas. Meanwhile, Viscum album L. extract (VAE) is used in cancer patients owing to its cytostatic and immunomodulating effects and to its ability to improve patients’ quality of life.

Case Presentation:

A 68-year-old male patient underwent a resection of a DDL (T2 N0 M0, FNCLCC grade 2, stage IIIA) in the retroperitoneum. Three months after this first surgery, a recurrence occurred, and was treated with neoadjuvant and adjuvant doxorubicin plus ifosfamide and surgery (resection). A second recurrence—11 months after the second surgery—was treated with surgery and radiotherapy. The patient then began to undergo VAE treatment (0.2 mg-2 mg, subcutaneously, thrice a week). After the VAE treatment was initiated, the patient reported improved quality of life. A third recurrence—12 months after the third surgery—was treated with surgery, radiotherapy, and with an increased dose of VAE (20 mg). Sixty-nine months (5.8 years) after the fourth surgery a fourth recurrence occurred. It was again treated with surgery, along with a month of intravenous VAE infusions and subsequent subcutaneous VAE (20 mg) treatment. Finally, a fifth recurrence—5 months after the fifth surgery—was treated with subcutaneous and intravenous VAE applications and eribulin. The patient died 11 months after the last recurrence; he received a total of 103 months (8.6 years) of VAE treatment and achieved 10.5 years of survival.

Conclusion:

The case presented herein shows a long-time survival and a prolonged recurrence-free interval in a patient with retroperitoneal DDL treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and VAE injections. On the basis of the antitumoral and immunomodulating effects of VAE and on the reported prolonged survival of VAE-treated patients with other types of tumors, the adjunct VAE treatment is presumed to have contributed to the favorable outcome. Regarding the clinical relevance of VAE treatment, further investigations are needed.
Sounds and acoustic emission-based early fault diagnosis of induction motor: A review study
Authors: AlShorman Omar , Alkahatni Fahad , Masadeh Mahmoud , Irfan Muhammad , Glowacz Adam , Althobiani Faisal , Kozik Jaroslaw , Glowacz Witold
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, condition-based maintenance (CBM) and fault diagnosis (FD) of rotating machinery (RM) has a vital role in the modern industrial world. However, the remaining useful life (RUL) of machinery is crucial for continuous monitoring and timely maintenance. Moreover, reduced maintenance costs, enhanced safety, efficiency, reliability, and availability are the main important industrial issues to maintain valuable and high-cost machinery. Undoubtedly, induction motor (IM) is considered to be a pivotal component in industrial machines. Recently, acoustic emission (AE) becomes a very accurate and efficient method for fault, leaks and fatigue detection and monitoring techniques. Moreover, CM and FD based on the AE of IM have been growing over recent years. The proposed research study aims to review condition monitoring (CM) and fault diagnosis (FD) studies based on sound and AE for four types of faults: bearings, rotor, stator, and compound. The study also points out the advantages and limitations of using sound and AE analysis in CM and FD. Existing public datasets for AE based analysis for CM and FD of IM are also mentioned. Finally, challenges facing AE based CM and FD for RM, especially for IM, and possible future works are addressed in this study.
Burden of pulmonary arterial hypertension in England: retrospective HES database analysis
Authors: Exposto Fernando , Hermans Ruben , Nordgren Åsa , Taylor Luke , Sikander Rehman Sanam , Ogley Robert , Davies Evan , Yesufu-Udechuku Amina , Beaudet Amélie
Published: February 2021

Background:

The clinical and economic burden of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is poorly understood outside the United States. This retrospective database study describes the characteristics of patients with PAH in England, including their healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU) and associated costs.

Methods:

Data from 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2018 were obtained from the National Health Service (NHS) Digital Hospital Episode Statistics database, which provides full coverage of patient events occurring in NHS England hospitals. An adult patient cohort was defined using an algorithm incorporating pulmonary hypertension (PH) diagnosis codes, PAH-associated procedures, PH specialist centre visits and PAH-specific medications. HCRU included inpatient admissions, outpatient visits and Accident and Emergency (A&E) attendances. Associated costs, calculated using national tariffs inflation-adjusted to 2017, did not include PAH-specific drugs on the High Cost Drugs list.

Results:

The analysis cohort included 2527 patients (68.4% female; 63.6% aged ⩾50 years). Mean annual HCRU rates ranged from 2.9 to 3.2 for admissions (21–25% of patients had ⩾5 admissions), 9.4–10.3 for outpatient visits and 0.8–0.9 for A&E attendances. Costs from 2013 to 2017 totalled £43.2M (£33.9M admissions, £8.3M outpatient visits and £0.9M A&E attendances). From 2013 to 2017, mean cost per patient decreased 13% (from £4400 to £3833) for admissions and 13% (from £1031 to £896) for outpatient visits, but increased 52% (from £81 to £123) for A&E attendances.

Conclusion:

PAH incurs a heavy economic burden on a per-patient basis, highlighting the need for improved treatment strategies able to reduce disease progression and hospitalisations. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
Preparing for a School-Located COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic
Authors: Park Katherine , Cartmill Rebecca , Johnson-Gordon Belinda , Landes Mary , Malik Karen , Sinnott Jane , Wallace Kathy , Wallin Robin
Published: February 2021

School-located vaccination events (SLVE) have a long history in the United States and have successfully contributed to lower morbidity and mortality due to vaccine-preventable diseases. The school is an ideal place to reach children from all cultures, socioeconomic groups, and age-groups and is conveniently situated in communities for ease of accessibility for students, parents, and staff alike. School nurses play an important role in planning for SLVE and are ideally positioned to initiate this process and provide accurate information, dispelling myths about vaccines. Because school nurses are considered a trusted source of health information by the school community, they can provide valuable education on the impact of vaccination on student and staff attendance. Conducting a successful SLVE requires research, planning, and partnerships, and these partnerships are needed both within the school setting and outside this setting, within the community at large. The proliferation of the current COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent vaccine production has caused school nurses to take the lead in preparing for mass vaccination clinics in order to help mitigate this serious public health threat. This manuscript describes the process a group of school nurses used to develop SLVE plans in response to a pandemic.
En bloc transurethral resection of bladder tumor: A review of the literature
Authors: Kopel Jonathan , Sharma Pranav
Published: February 2021

Bladder cancer remains one of the most common malignancies of the genitourinary tract. Transurethral resection of the bladder tumor (TURBT) via cystoscopy with examination under anesthesia remains the primary method for determining the diagnosis and clinical stage of bladder cancer. Given the substantial cost of treatment and risk of bladder cancer recurrence after TURBT, novel approaches to transurethral resection, such as the en bloc technique, have been developed in an attempt to address these limitations. In this review, we examined the postoperative and oncological outcomes of en bloc TURBT compared to traditional resection techniques. Further prospective clinical studies, however, are still necessary to determine whether these alternative technologies or surgical techniques may improve treatment in bladder cancer patients.

Level of evidence: Not applicable.
Health-related quality of life and associated factors among patients with type II diabetes mellitus: A study in the family medicine center (FMC) of Agricultural General Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Tran Kien Nguyen , Phuong Hoa Nguyen , Minh Duc Duong , Wens Johan
Published: February 2021

The current study aimed to examine the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and to identify its related factors amongst adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This cross-sectional study recruited randomly 519 patients diagnosed with T2DM for at least 6 months in the Family medicine center (FMC) of Agricultural General Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam. The Short Form 36 (SF-36) health survey was used to measure their HRQoL. The female patients had lower physical and mental scores than the male patients. Patients with older age, comorbidity, and insulin treatment were more likely to have lower HRQoL. Meanwhile, educational attainment and having frequent exercise were positively associated with HRQoL.
Oligarchy in the Jokowi government and its influence on the implementation of legislative function in Indonesia
Authors: Asrinaldi  , Yusoff Mohammad Agus , Karim dan Zamzami Abdul
Published: February 2021

The weak implementation of the House of Representatives’, or Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat’s (DPR), function indicates stagnation in Indonesia’s democracy. This fact is due to the party oligarchy’s stronghold in the Jokowi government, which ignores the nature of public representation that should be carried out. The oligarchy controls the government and DPR’s performance in establishing political compromises for every legislative policy with the government to facilitate the affairs of party oligarchs, who are also the members of the Jokowi government coalition. In addition, they engage in cartel politics to secure their respective power and material interests. This article examines the roles of party oligarchs in influencing the implementation of political functions in the DPR. Ironically, the coalition formed by the party oligarchy has helped the Jokowi government and the DPR to secure government policies and the economic and political interests of the oligarchic group.
Engaging with Uncertainty and Complexity: A Secondary Analysis of Primary Care Responses to Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Gear Claire , Koziol-McLain Jane , Eppel Elizabeth
Published: February 2021

Complex problems generate uncertainty. The number and diversity of interactions between different health professionals, perspectives, and components of the problem makes predicting an outcome impossible. In effort to reduce the uncertainty of intimate partner violence interventions, health systems have developed standardized guidelines and protocols. This paper presents a secondary analysis of 17 New Zealand primary care professional narratives on intimate partner violence as a health issue. We conducted a complexity-informed content analysis of participant narratives to explore uncertainty in greater depth. This paper describes three ways primary care professionals interact with uncertainty: reducing uncertainty, realizing inherent uncertainty, and engaging with uncertainty. We found dynamic patterns of interaction between context and the experience of uncertainty shape possible response options. Primary care professionals that probed into uncertainty generated new understanding and opportunities to respond to intimate partner violence.
An Ethnographic Study of the Moral Experiences of Children with Cancer in New Delhi, India
Authors: Behan Justine M. , Arora Ramandeep Singh , Carnevale Franco A. , Bakhshi Sameer , Bhattacharjee Bani , Tsimicalis Argerie
Published: February 2021

There is a paucity of research examining children’s experiences with cancer in India. Childhood ethics is an emerging field, focusing on the moral dimension of children’s experiences, to promote children’s participation in their health care. A focused ethnography, using a moral experience framework, was conducted to better understand children’s participation in decisions, discussions, and actions in three oncology settings in New Delhi, India. We interviewed key informants, retrieved key documents, and conducted semi-structured interviews and participant observations with children. All 22 children demonstrated interest in varying aspects of their cancer care. Certain factors facilitated or impeded their participation. Some children became distressed when they lacked information about their treatment or were not given opportunities to enhance their understanding. The results advance our understanding of the moral experiences of children with cancer in India for healthcare professionals, policy makers, families, and interested others.
A study of the cognitive function of Chinese characters based on the semiotics of  writing
Authors: Shim Hyounjoo
Published: February 2021

This paper attempts to critique phonocentrism based on linguistic signs and explores the cognitive functions of Chinese characters through semiotic concepts and approaches. From the semiotics of writing, this paper suggests a model of Chinese characters’ perceptive cognition which works on schema of character codes and signification. This model logically demonstrates the process by which consumers recognize Chinese orthographic signs and associate with certain meanings. This paper also analyzes the process of signification performed by consumers in the Sinosphere. Specifically examining some cases of branding strategies by Chinese and Korean companies, it endeavors to test the efficacy of the model by applying it to the model for perception cognitive of Chinese character. This study aims at expanding the discursive space for the incorporation of convergence theory and methodology. Presenting a semiotic model of sensory perception, the paper attempts to contribute to the establishment of semiotics based on Chinese characters which display eminent iconic, symbolic and cognitive functions.
Young Male with Bilateral ICA Dissection: Beyond CADISS Trial
Authors: Bhatia Vikas , Jain Chirag , Ray Sucharita , Kumar jay
Published: February 2021

Objective:

To report a case of young male with stroke and bilateral internal carotid artery (ICA) dissection.

Background:

Cervical Artery Dissection in Stroke Study trial has provided some insight on management of patients with ICA dissection. However, there is a need to modify the management strategies as per specific clinical scenario.

Design/Methods:

Case report and literature review.

Results:

A 45-year-old male presented with 1 month old history of acute onset numbness of right half of the body with slurring of speech. Computed tomography angiography showed complete occlusion of left cervical ICA just beyond origin with presence of fusiform dilatation and spiral flap in right extracranial cervical ICA. The patient was started on antiplatelets and taken for endovascular procedure using 2-mesh-based carotid stents. Patient was discharged after 3 days on antiplatelet therapy. At 1-year follow-up, there were no fresh symptoms.

Conclusion:

This case emphasizes the role of successful endovascular management of carotid dissection in a young male. These clinical situations may not be fully represented in trials, and a case-based approach is required.
Reconstruction of the Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament of the Elbow: The Docking Technique
Authors: Camp Christopher L. , Song Bryant M. , Wilbur Ryan R.
Published: February 2021

Background:

The medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) is the primary restraint to valgus force on the elbow. Since the first description of MUCL reconstruction by Jobe et al in 1986, many technical advancements have been implemented to improve outcomes and reduce complications. The docking technique has emerged as one of the most commonly used techniques.

Indications:

Following repetitive stress on the elbow during the overhead throwing motion, the MUCL may become attenuated, insufficient, or rupture completely. Although nonoperative treatment with rest and therapy is often the initial treatment of choice, individuals who fail conservative measures may require MUCL reconstruction.

Technique Description:

The major steps of the procedure are (1) harvesting of palmaris longus autograft, (2) incision and exposure, (3) preparation of ulnar tunnel, (4) preparation of docking site on medial epicondyle, (5) graft passage, (6) graft tensioning and length determination, (7) final fixation, and (8) closure.

Results:

This procedure allows for reconstruction of the MUCL, restoration of valgus stability to the elbow, and return to play rates of 80% to 95%. The docking technique has advantages over previously described MUCL reconstruction techniques in that it minimizes injury to the flexor pronator mass, avoids the ulnar nerve, allows for robust graft tensioning, and reduces the amount of bone removed from the medial epicondyle.

Discussion/Conclusion:

The docking technique, as described in this video demonstration, is the most common MUCL reconstruction technique used today. When precise surgical steps are followed, complication rates are low and patient outcomes are favorable.
HIF2α is a direct regulator of neutrophil motility
Authors: Sormendi Sundary , Deygas Mathieu , Sinha Anupam , Bernard Mathilde , Krüger Anja , Kourtzelis Ioannis , Le Lay Gregoire , Sáez Pablo J. , Gerlach Michael , Franke Kristin , Meneses Ana , Kräter Martin , Palladini Alessandra , Guck Jochen , Coskun Ünal , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Vargas Pablo , Wielockx Ben
Published: February 2021

Orchestrated recruitment of neutrophils to inflamed tissue is essential during the initiation of inflammation. Inflamed areas are usually hypoxic, and adaptation to reduced oxygen pressure is typically mediated by hypoxia pathway proteins. However, it remains unclear how these factors influence the migration of neutrophils to and at the site of inflammation during their transmigration through the blood-endothelial cell barrier, as well as their motility in the interstitial space. Here, we reveal that activation of hypoxia-inducible factor 2 (HIF2α) as a result of a deficiency in HIF prolyl hydroxylase domain protein 2 (PHD2) boosts neutrophil migration specifically through highly confined microenvironments. In vivo, the increased migratory capacity of PHD2-deficient neutrophils resulted in massive tissue accumulation in models of acute local inflammation. Using systematic RNA sequencing analyses and mechanistic approaches, we identified RhoA, a cytoskeleton organizer, as the central downstream factor that mediates HIF2α-dependent neutrophil motility. Thus, we propose that the novel PHD2-HIF2α-RhoA axis is vital to the initial stages of inflammation because it promotes neutrophil movement through highly confined tissue landscapes.
EBF1 and PAX5 control pro-B cell expansion via opposing regulation of the Myc gene
Authors: Somasundaram Rajesh , Jensen Christina T. , Tingvall-Gustafsson Johanna , Åhsberg Josefine , Okuyama Kazuki , Prasad Mahadesh , Hagman James R. , Wang Xun , Soneji Shamit , Strid Tobias , Ungerbäck Jonas , Sigvardsson Mikael
Published: February 2021

Genes encoding B lineage–restricted transcription factors are frequently mutated in B-lymphoid leukemias, suggesting a close link between normal and malignant B-cell development. One of these transcription factors is early B-cell factor 1 (EBF1), a protein of critical importance for lineage specification and survival of B-lymphoid progenitors. Here, we report that impaired EBF1 function in mouse B-cell progenitors results in reduced expression of Myc. Ectopic expression of MYC partially rescued B-cell expansion in the absence of EBF1 both in vivo and in vitro. Using chromosome conformation analysis in combination with ATAC-sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation–sequencing, and reporter gene assays, six EBF1-responsive enhancer elements were identified within the Myc locus. CRISPR-Cas9–mediated targeting of EBF1-binding sites identified one element of key importance for Myc expression and pro-B cell expansion. These data provide evidence that Myc is a direct target of EBF1. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation–sequencing analysis revealed that several regulatory elements in the Myc locus are targets of PAX5. However, ectopic expression of PAX5 in EBF1-deficient cells inhibits the cell cycle and reduces Myc expression, suggesting that EBF1 and PAX5 act in an opposing manner to regulate Myc levels. This hypothesis is further substantiated by the finding that Pax5 inactivation reduces requirements for EBF1 in pro–B-cell expansion. The binding of EBF1 and PAX5 to regulatory elements in the human MYC gene in a B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line indicates that the EBF1:PAX5:MYC regulatory loop is conserved and may control both normal and malignant B-cell development.
P-selectin deficiency promotes liver senescence in sickle cell disease mice
Authors: Vats Ravi , Kaminski Tomasz W. , Ju Eun-Mi , Brozska Tomasz , Tutuncuoglu Egemen , Tejero Jesús , Novelli Enrico M. , Sundd Prithu , Pradhan-Sundd Tirthadipa
Published: February 2021

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is caused by a homozygous mutation in the β-globin gene, which leads to erythrocyte sickling, vasoocclusion, and intense hemolysis. P-selectin inhibition has been shown to prevent vasoocclusive events in patients with SCD; however, the chronic effect of P-selectin inhibition in SCD remains to be determined. Here, we used quantitative liver intravital microscopy in our recently generated P-selectin–deficient SCD mice to show that chronic P-selectin deficiency attenuates liver ischemia but fails to prevent hepatobiliary injury. Remarkably, we find that this failure in resolution of hepatobiliary injury in P-selectin–deficient SCD mice is associated with the increase in cellular senescence and reduced epithelial cell proliferation in the liver. These findings highlight the importance of investigating the long-term effects of chronic P-selectin inhibition therapy on liver pathophysiology in patients with SCD.
ZAP-70 constitutively regulates gene expression and protein synthesis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Chen Jingyu , Sathiaseelan Vijitha , Moore Andrew , Tan Shengjiang , Chilamakuri Chandra Sekkar Reddy , Roamio Franklin Valar Nila , Shahsavari Arash , Jakwerth Constanze A. , Hake Sandra B. , Warren Alan J. , Mohorianu Irina , D’Santos Clive , Ringshausen Ingo
Published: February 2021

The expression of ZAP-70 in a subset of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients strongly correlates with a more aggressive clinical course, although the exact underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The ability of ZAP-70 to enhance B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling, independently of its kinase function, is considered to contribute. We used RNA-sequencing and proteomic analyses of primary cells differing only in their expression of ZAP-70 to further define how ZAP-70 increases the aggressiveness of CLL. We identified that ZAP-70 is directly required for cell survival in the absence of an overt BCR signal, which can compensate for ZAP-70 deficiency as an antiapoptotic signal. In addition, the expression of ZAP-70 regulates the transcription of factors regulating the recruitment and activation of T cells, such as CCL3, CCL4, and IL4I1. Quantitative mass spectrometry of double–cross-linked ZAP-70 complexes further demonstrated constitutive and direct protein-protein interactions between ZAP-70 and BCR-signaling components. Unexpectedly, ZAP-70 also binds to ribosomal proteins, which is not dependent on, but is further increased by, BCR stimulation. Importantly, decreased expression of ZAP-70 significantly reduced MYC expression and global protein synthesis, providing evidence that ZAP-70 contributes to translational dysregulation in CLL. In conclusion, ZAP-70 constitutively promotes cell survival, microenvironment interactions, and protein synthesis in CLL cells, likely to improve cellular fitness and to further drive disease progression.
CHARTS: a web application for characterizing and comparing tumor subpopulations in publicly available single-cell RNA-seq data sets
Authors: Bernstein Matthew N. , Ni Zijian , Collins Michael , Burkard Mark E. , Kendziorski Christina , Stewart Ron
Published: February 2021

Background

Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) enables the profiling of genome-wide gene expression at the single-cell level and in so doing facilitates insight into and information about cellular heterogeneity within a tissue. This is especially important in cancer, where tumor and tumor microenvironment heterogeneity directly impact development, maintenance, and progression of disease. While publicly available scRNA-seq cancer data sets offer unprecedented opportunity to better understand the mechanisms underlying tumor progression, metastasis, drug resistance, and immune evasion, much of the available information has been underutilized, in part, due to the lack of tools available for aggregating and analysing these data.

Results

We present CHARacterizing Tumor Subpopulations (CHARTS), a web application for exploring publicly available scRNA-seq cancer data sets in the NCBI’s Gene Expression Omnibus. More specifically, CHARTS enables the exploration of individual gene expression, cell type, malignancy-status, differentially expressed genes, and gene set enrichment results in subpopulations of cells across tumors and data sets. Along with the web application, we also make available the backend computational pipeline that was used to produce the analyses that are available for exploration in the web application.

Conclusion

CHARTS is an easy to use, comprehensive platform for exploring single-cell subpopulations within tumors across the ever-growing collection of public scRNA-seq cancer data sets. CHARTS is freely available at charts.morgridge.org.
Neural basis underlying the trait of attachment anxiety and avoidance revealed by the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations and resting-state functional connectivity
Authors: Deng Min , Zhang Xing , Bi Xiaoyan , Gao Chunhai
Published: February 2021

Background

Attachment theory demonstrates that early attachment experience shapes internal working models with mental representations of self and close relationships, which affects personality traits and interpersonal relationships in adulthood. Although research has focused on brain structural and functional underpinnings to disentangle attachment styles in healthy individuals, little is known about the spontaneous brain activity associated with self-reported attachment anxiety and avoidance during the resting state.

Methods

One hundred and nineteen individuals participated in the study, completing the Experience in Close Relationship scale immediately after an 8-min fMRI scanning. We used the resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) signal of the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation and resting-state functional connectivity to identify attachment-related regions and networks.

Results

Consequently, attachment anxiety is closely associated with the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations in the right posterior cingulate cortex, over-estimating emotional intensity and exaggerating outcomes. Moreover, the functional connectivity between the posterior cingulate cortex and fusiform gyrus increases detection ability for potential threat or separation information, facilitating behavior motivation. The attachment avoidance is positively correlated with the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation in the bilateral lingual gyrus and right postcentral and negatively correlated with the bilateral orbital frontal cortex and inferior temporal gyrus. Functional connection with attachment avoidance contains critical nodes in the medial temporal lobe memory system, frontal-parietal network, social cognition, and default mode network necessary to deactivate the attachment system and inhibit attachment-related behavior.

Conclusion and implications

These findings clarify the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation and resting-state functional connectivity neural signature of attachment style, associated with attachment strategies in attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance individuals. These findings may improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of the attachment-related disorder.
Omic analysis of the endangered Taxaceae species Pseudotaxus chienii revealed the differences in taxol biosynthesis pathway between Pseudotaxus and Taxus yunnanensis trees
Authors: Yu Chunna , Zhang Chengchao , Xu Xinyun , Huang Jiefang , Chen Yueyue , Luo Xiujun , Wang Huizhong , Shen Chenjia
Published: February 2021

Background

Taxol is an efficient anticancer drug accumulated in Taxus species. Pseudotaxus chienii is an important member of Taxaceae, however, the level of six taxoids in P. chienii is largely unknown.

Results

High accumulation of 10-DAB, taxol, and 7-E-PTX suggested that P. chienii is a good taxol-yielding species for large-scale cultivation. By the omics approaches, a total of 3,387 metabolites and 61,146 unigenes were detected and annotated. Compared with a representative Taxus tree (Taxus yunnanensis), most of the differentially accumulated metabolites and differential expressed genes were assigned into 10 primary and secondary metabolism pathways. Comparative analyses revealed the variations in the precursors and intermediate products of taxol biosynthesis between P. chienii and T. yunnanensis. Taxusin-like metabolites highly accumulated in P. chienii, suggesting a wider value of P. chienii in pharmaceutical industry.

Conclusions

In our study, the occurrence of taxoids in P. chienii was determined. The differential expression of key genes involved in the taxol biosynthesis pathway is the major cause of the differential accumulation of taxoids. Moreover, identification of a number of differentially expressed transcription factors provided more candidate regulators of taxol biosynthesis. Our study may help to reveal the differences between Pseudotaxus and Taxus trees, and promote resource utilization of the endangered and rarely studied P. chienii.