bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curating #AanaJaana [#ComingGoing]: gendered authorship in the ‘contact zone’ of Delhi’s digital and urban margins
Authors: Datta Ayona , Thomas Arya
Published: March 2021

This paper examines the curation of a month-long public exhibition titled #AanaJaana [#ComingGoing] in one of New Delhi’s busiest metro stations, as a form of self-authorship by young women from its digital and urban margins. #AanaJaana [#ComingGoing] is a metaphor for journeys, communications, connections, associations, interceptions, social networks and individual/collective behaviours, that is curated as women ‘see’ and ‘speak’ with/through their mobile phones. Using Marie Louise Pratt’s notion of ‘contact zone’, we examine #AanaJaana as a space of encounters that emerges by visually ‘composing-with’ as well as ‘learning-with’ the realities and constraints of space, technology and power. Based on self-authorship over a period of 6 months within a ‘safe space’ of a WhatsApp group of young women living in the urban margins, we draw attention to #AanaJaana as a set of crosscutting networks of power dynamics over women’s bodies across the home, mobile phone and the city. #AanaJaana refers to how young women in the margins negotiate the ‘freedoms’ of moving (aana) in online space with the ‘dangers’ of going out (jaana) into the city, or the restrictions of entering (aana) online space with the freedom of leaving (jaana) home. We argue first, that #AanaJaana is a space of confinement because of the infrastructural paralysis in the peripheries. Second that it is also at the same time translocally produced by referencing several textual, digital and material spaces of self-realisation. Finally, we argue that #AanaJaana is a space of intertextuality through encounters between emojis, shorthand, voice notes on the mobile phone, with parody and dark humour of their gendered experiences that can transform shame, humiliation and fear into reflection, resistance and agency. The paper concludes that as a polycentric practice, #AanaJaana offers an appropriate metaphor to expand the ‘contact zone’ in order to decolonise gendered knowledge and power across digital-analogue margins.
Do we need an anti-oligarchic constitution?
Authors: Bagg Samuel
Published: March 2021

Camila Vergara’s Systemic Corruption is an extraordinarily rich, provocative and original work of political theory, which makes several compelling interventions in the normative literature. It develops a forceful critique of overly narrow definitions of corruption, insisting that a more ‘systemic’ conception is required in order to grasp the scale of oligarchic domination in contemporary democracies. It also points out the limitations of the ‘proceduralist’ model of contestation adopted by neo-republicans, and outlines a persuasive conception of the people as a partisan actor with specific interests to defend. Yet Vergara’s alternative vision of how popular power might be institutionalized is less convincing. Though she rightly insists on the importance of organized countervailing power and plebeian solidarity, the system of nested local assemblies that she proposes is not well-suited to foster the development of either.
Explaining post-prison rehabilitation through music from the Good Lives Model perspective
Authors: Bensimon Moshe
Published: March 2021

Whereas many research studies have discussed the impact of music programmes in a prison setting, few studies have investigated the impact of music programmes that take place outside the prison and are intended for formerly incarcerated individuals. The current study aims to fill this void by examining the experience of formerly incarcerated individuals who participated in a group music programme intended to assist them on their journey towards rehabilitation. Five formerly incarcerated individuals who participated in the Sounding Out Programme (SOP), a group music programme funded by the Irene Taylor Trust in London, were interviewed for this research. In addition, three programme staff members were interviewed in order to gain further perspective on the process. Content analysis of the interviews indicated the emergence of four central themes: improved social bonding, a sense of hope and life purpose, a sense of achievement, and transformation. These findings are discussed in light of the Good Lives Model (GLM). Accordingly, the SOP assisted both formerly incarcerated individuals and programme staff members in attaining the following GLM primary goods in life: community, relatedness, knowledge, spirituality, excellence in work and play, excellence in agency, and creativity.
Sense-making Analysis: A Framework for Multi-Strategy and Cross-Country Research
Authors: Wibeck Victoria , Linnér Björn-Ola
Published: March 2021

While sense-making is a frequently used concept in everyday discourse and in several social science research areas, discussions about how the concept translates into methodology are currently scarce. This paper introduces a framework for analyzing how actors in different cultural contexts make sense of global concepts. By this we refer to expressions that are used and expected to find a common ground worldwide, yet are equivocal in their multiple meanings and connotations. The paper discusses methodological considerations of such a sense-making analysis. The paper cites examples from a mixed-methods, cross-country, sense-making analysis of societal transformations toward sustainability—a concept promoted by the United Nations 2030 Agenda. We identify three steps in a comprehensive sense-making analysis: 1) mapping relevant societal arenas for sense-making; 2) vertical analyses; and 3) horizontal analyses. We outline how different datasets can be approached vertically, focusing on the use of framing, metaphors, categorizations, and stories. This forms the basis for the horizontal analysis of societal narratives and recurrent themes across the different data sources. By presenting comprehensive vertical and horizontal analyses, researchers and state and non-state actors can gain insight into the broader varieties of sense-making that can enrich scientific analysis, enhance transparency and effectiveness in international relations, and support transnational governance and civil society collaborations.
Importance measure-based resilience analysis of a wind power generation system
Authors: Dui Hongyan , Zheng Xiaoqian , Guo Jianjun , Xiao Hui
Published: March 2021

Different from other forms of power generation, wind power generation has the characteristics of randomness, intermittentness, and volatility. Therefore, the wind power generation system (WPGS) is more prone to failures caused by external impacts during the operation. The reliability of the WPGS has a significant influence on the safety of large-scale power grid systems. Thus, how to accurately evaluate the reliability of the WPGS that is integrated into large-scale power grid systems has become a new challenge. Implementing effective resilience management in WPGSs can improve their ability to handle interruptions and increase the safety of the grid-connected system. This research proposes a new method of resilience management based on importance measure for the WPGS after multi-node failures due to natural disasters or man-made accidents. Firstly, both the performance of the WPGS before multi-node failures and the performance of the WPGS after multiple nodes failures are analyzed. Then, the performance loss and the performance recovery of the WPGS are evaluated. Finally, a new method for judging the loss importance measure of node, the recovery importance measure of node, and the resilience importance measure are proposed. The objective of this research is to analyze the restoration sequence of failed nodes in the WPGS with multi-node failures such that the system recover can be faster and more effective. The proposed method is proven to be effective by introducing the WPGS into the IEEE five-machine 14-node system.
Blood pressure variability and outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy based on the recanalization and collateral status
Authors: Huang Xianjun , Guo Hongquan , Yuan Lili , Cai Qiankun , Zhang Min , Zhang Yi , Zhu Wusheng , Li Zibao , Yang Qian , Zhou Zhiming , Sun Wen , Liu Xinfeng
Published: March 2021

Background:

Blood pressure (BP), recanalization status, and collateral circulation are important factors for cerebral autoregulation after stroke. We aimed to investigate the association of various BP variability (BPV) parameters with clinical outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) according to recanalization and collateral status.

Methods:

We included 502 consecutive patients who underwent MT due to anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke at three comprehensive stroke centers. BPV parameters were standard deviation (SD), maximum/minimum BP, coefficient of variation (CV) and successive variation (SV). The clinical outcomes included 90-day functional outcome assessed by modified Rankin Scale score and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH).

Results:

Among the included patients, 219 (43.6%) achieved good functional outcomes and 59 (11.8%) developed sICH. After adjusting for confounders, higher systolic BP (SBP) variability [CV (odds ratio (OR), 1.089, p = 0.035), SV (OR, 1.082, p = 0.004). and SD (OR, 1.074, p = 0.027)] was associated with a lower likelihood of a favorable outcome. In addition, higher SBP [CV (OR, 1.156, p = 0.001) and SD (OR, 1.118, p = 0.001)] were significantly associated with increased odds of sICH. Moreover, the relationship between BPV and the outcomes depended on recanalization status. However, regardless of collateral status, a higher BPV after MT was associated with worse outcomes.

Conclusions:

Higher SBP SD and CV during the first 24 h after MT was a powerful predictor of worse clinical outcomes, regardless of the collateral status. However, the effects of BPV on outcomes were more substantial among patients with successful reperfusion.
Treatment satisfaction in 5q-spinal muscular atrophy under nusinersen therapy
Authors: Osmanovic Alma , Ranxha Gresa , Kumpe Mareike , Wurster Claudia D. , Stolte Benjamin , Cordts Isabell , Günther René , Freigang Maren , Müschen Lars H. , Binz Camilla , Hermann Andreas , Deschauer Marcus , Lingor Paul , Ludolph Albert C. , Hagenacker Tim , Schreiber-Katz Olivia , Petri Susanne
Published: March 2021

Background:

Nusinersen was the first approved disease-modifying therapy for all 5q-spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients regardless of age or disease severity. Its efficacy in adults has recently been demonstrated in a large cohort by motor outcome measures, which were only partially suitable to detect changes in very mildly or severely affected patients. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROs) have been suggested as a valuable addition. Here, we aimed to assess treatment satisfaction and investigate whether it may be a useful PRO to monitor SMA patients.

Methods:

We enrolled 91 mainly adult 5q-SMA patients treated with nusinersen in a national, multicenter, cross-sectional observational study. 21 patients underwent longitudinal follow up. Patients’ satisfaction with treatment in four dimensions (global, effectiveness, convenience, side effects) was assessed by the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication German version 1.4 (TSQM-1.4©) and related to clinical parameters, motor scores, and treatment duration.

Results:

More than 90% of SMA patients were consistently satisfied over a median treatment duration of 10 months. Highest mean scores were observed in the dimensions ‘side effects,’ ‘global satisfaction,’ and ‘effectiveness’ (93.5 ± 14.8 versus 73.1 ± 21.0 and 64.8 ± 20.6, respectively). Patients’ satisfaction with the convenience of treatment was considerably lower (43.6 ± 20.2). Interestingly, satisfaction with the effectiveness was higher in ambulatory ( p = 0.014) compared with non-ambulatory patients and directly correlated to motor outcome measures. Five non-ambulatory patients withdrew from therapy. All of them presented with a deterioration of motor outcome measures and reported dissatisfaction with treatment effectiveness and convenience.

Conclusion:

Most patients were satisfied with nusinersen treatment effectiveness. Less severely affected patients indicated higher satisfaction. The TSQM-1.4© helped to identify therapy non-responders, who mainly addressed dissatisfaction with effectiveness and convenience. We suggest introducing the TSQM-1.4© as an additional PRO in SMA into clinical practice.
Adherence and Persistence to Insulin Therapy in People with Diabetes: Impact of Connected Insulin Pen Delivery Ecosystem
Authors: Steenkamp Devin , Eby Elizabeth L , Gulati Nany , Liao Birong
Published: March 2021

Diabetes is an increasing public health problem, and insulin is the mainstay for treatment of type 1 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes treatment, insulin therapy is used after oral or other injectable agents become inadequate to achieve glycemic control. Despite the advances in insulin therapy, management of diabetes remains challenging. Numerous studies have reported low adherence and persistence to insulin therapy, which acts as a barrier to successful glycemic control and diabetes management. The aim of this targeted review article is to provide an overview of adherence and persistence to insulin therapy in people with diabetes and to discuss the impact of the emergence of a new connected ecosystem of increasingly sophisticated insulin pens, glucose monitoring systems, telemedicine, and mHealth on diabetes management. With the emergence of a connected diabetes ecosystem, we have entered an era of advanced personalized insulin delivery, which will have the potential to enhance diabetes self-management and clinical management. Early systems promise to unlock the potential to address missed or late bolus insulin delivery, which should help to address non-adherence and non-persistence. Over time, improvements in this ecosystem have the potential to combine insulin data with previously missing contextualized patient data, including meal, glucose, and activity data to support personalized clinical decisions and ultimately revolutionize insulin therapy.
The Origins of Religious Disbelief: A Dual Inheritance Approach
Authors: Gervais Will M. , Najle Maxine B. , Caluori Nava
Published: March 2021

Widespread religious disbelief represents a key testing ground for theories of religion. We evaluated the predictions of three prominent theoretical approaches—secularization, cognitive byproduct, and dual inheritance—in a nationally representative (United States, N = 1,417) data set with preregistered analyses and found considerable support for the dual inheritance perspective. Of key predictors of religious disbelief, witnessing fewer credible cultural cues of religious commitment was the most potent, β = .28, followed distantly by reflective cognitive style, β = .13, and less advanced mentalizing, β = .05. Low cultural exposure predicted about 90% higher odds of atheism than did peak cognitive reflection, and cognitive reflection only predicted disbelief among those relatively low in cultural exposure to religion. This highlights the utility of considering both evolved intuitions and transmitted culture and emphasizes the dual roles of content- and context-biased social learning in the cultural transmission of disbelief (preprint https://psyarxiv.com/e29rt/ ).
heART space: Curating community grief from overdose
Authors: Selfridge Marion , Robinson Jennifer Claire , Mitchell Lisa M
Published: March 2021

This article details the transformation of an empty store into a gallery honouring youth and others who have passed away from overdoses, and the creation of extensive harm reduction and grief support programming that accompanied the display of artwork. The outpouring of community interest, participation, and emotion that surfaced around heART space clearly shows how art, exhibitions and creative programming can help foster communities of care during times of crisis. Drawing from research into practices of care from harm reduction work, grief studies and participatory arts and curatorial studies, the authors explore how heART space comforted youth and others with direct experiences with overdose and disenfranchised grief while creating dialogues with visitors about the stigma of drug use and homelessness. The authors argue curating heART space produced an opportunity for community healing while nuancing and humanizing the way we see people who use drugs. As such, this youth-driven community project created a safe space to share stories, collaborate, honour trauma and transform grief into action.
Attributes of Senior-Friendly Tourism Destinations for Current and Future Senior Tourists: An Importance-Performance Analysis Approach
Authors: Liew Sien Leong , Hussin Siti Rahayu , Abdullah Nawal Hanim
Published: March 2021

This study aims to identify the tourists’ expectation and satisfaction of destination attributes from the perspective of senior tourists in Malaysia. Two groups of tourists were chosen as the study sample, that is, future seniors (40–54 years old) and seniors (55 years old and above). It is hoped that, through recognizing and raising awareness on the need for equal traveling opportunities, senior tourists and future senior tourists will be encouraged to undertake more tourism activities. An importance-performance analysis (IPA) and paired sample t tests were employed to investigate senior tourists’ perceptions of senior-friendly destination attributes. Measures of destination attributes included the “4As” (i.e., attractions, accessibility, amenities, and ancillary services). The findings from a survey of 227 respondents revealed that the most important attributes for a senior-friendly destination are safety and cleanliness. Other attributes deemed important by senior tourists include the availability of leisure facilities and barrier-free public transportation. The findings also highlight attributes that tourism industry practitioners may use to improve tourists’ satisfaction and develop into competitive advantages against other tourist destinations. Both theoretical and practical implications of these important findings are discussed.
How VA Whole Health Coaching Can Impact Veterans’ Health and Quality of Life: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Program Evaluation
Authors: Purcell Natalie , Zamora Kara , Bertenthal Daniel , Abadjian Linda , Tighe Jennifer , Seal Karen H
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To examine the impact of a pilot VA Whole Health Coaching program, including whether and how the program helps veterans improve their health and quality of life.

Intervention

Whole Health Coaching is a structured program to support veterans in making healthy behavior changes to promote holistic well-being.

Design

This mixed-methods quality-improvement evaluation combined surveys (pre- and post-coaching) with follow-up qualitative interviews.

Setting

The setting was a large VA healthcare system, encompassing a medical center and six community-based clinics in Northern California.

Participants

65 veterans completed surveys at both time points; 42 completed qualitative interviews.

Method

Telephone surveys administered at baseline and 3 months assessed global health (PROMIS-10), perceived stress (PSS-4), and perceived health competency (PHCS-2). Pre- and post-scores were compared using t-tests. A subsample of participants completed a qualitative interview evaluating program experience, goal attainment, and the coaching relationship.

Results

Surveys showed significant improvements over baseline in mental health (p = 0.006; d = 0.36), stress (p = 0.003; d = –0.38), and perceived health competence (p = 0.01; d = 0.35). Interviewees were highly satisfied with their coaching experience, describing both effective program components and improvement opportunities.

Conclusion

Whole Health Coaching can help participants make meaningful progress toward health goals, reduce stress, and improve quality of life. The Whole Health model’s emphasis on holistic self-assessment; patient-driven goal-setting; supportive, non-judgmental inquiry; and mindful awareness contributed to program success and enhanced participants’ experience.
Individualized blood pressure management during endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke under procedural sedation (INDIVIDUATE) – An explorative randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Min , Kronsteiner Dorothea , Möhlenbruch Markus A , Kieser Meinhard , Bendszus Martin , Wick Wolfgang , Nagel Simon , Ringleb Peter A , Schönenberger Silvia
Published: March 2021

Background

Optimal blood pressure is not well established during endovascular therapy of acute ischemic stroke. Applying standardized blood pressure target values for every stroke patient might be a suboptimal approach.

Aim

To assess whether an individualized intraprocedural blood pressure management with individualized blood pressure target ranges might pose a better strategy for the outcome of the patients than standardized blood pressure targets. Sample size: Randomization of 250 patients 1:1 to receive either standard or individualized blood pressure management approach.

Methods and design

We conduct an explorative single-center randomized controlled trial with a PROBE (parallel-group, open-label randomized controlled trial with blinded endpoint evaluation) design. In the control group, intraprocedural systolic blood pressure target range is 140–180 mmHg. The intervention group is the individualized approach, which is maintaining the intraprocedural systolic blood pressure at the level on presentation (±10 mmHg). Study outcomes: The primary endpoint is the modified Rankin scale assessed 90 days +/− 2 weeks after stroke onset, dichotomized by 0–2 (favorable outcome) to 3–6 (unfavorable outcome). Secondary endpoints include early neurological improvement, infarction size, and systemic physiology monitor parameters.

Discussion

An individualized approach for blood pressure management during thrombectomy could lead to a better outcome for stroke patients. The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov as ‘Individualized Blood Pressure Management During Endovascular Stroke Treatment (INDIVIDUATE)’ under NCT04578288.
Early Outcomes of an Anterior Ankle Fusion Plating System with rhPDGF-BB Beta Tricalcium Phosphate Graft
Authors: Covell Donald J. , McMillen Ryan
Published: March 2021

Category:

Ankle; Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

Ankle fusion offers a reliable and effective treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. Biomechanical studies have shown that plating systems may offer an advantage to ankle fusion patients with significant bone loss, bone deformity, or osteoporotic bone by providing a stiffer construct. One potential downside to plating systems is that they have been associated with soft tissue irritation due to their profile height. The objective of this case series was to assess the early patient clinical and radiographic outcomes of an anatomically designed, lower profile anterior ankle fusion plate used in combination with an autograft alternative, recombinant human protein derived growth factor (rhPDGF-BB).

Methods:

All ankle fusions performed between May 2018 and August 2019 at two centers were retrospectively evaluated. All patients received an anatomically designed, low profile anterior ankle fusion plate (ORTHOLOC 3Di, Wright Medical Group, Memphis, Tennessee, USA) through an anterior surgical approach. All patients also received rhPDGF-BB as part of the surgical procedure. Patients were non-weight bearing for 6 to 8 weeks in a splint or short leg cast, before transitioning to protected partial weight bearing for another 6 to 8 weeks. Patient demographics, time to radiographic fusion, length of follow-up, and adverse events were collected as part of the review.

Results:

There were 20 patients (12 male, 8 female) included in the analysis. The average age was 60.9 years (range, 42-90) and the average BMI was 31.6 kg/m2 (range, 21-52). There were eight diabetics, four smokers, and two patients who had preoperative ulcers. The average follow-up time was 7.8 months (range, 3-18). The fusion rate was 90%, with two nonunions. One nonunion patient was an obese, diabetic, neuropathic, smoker with a preoperative ulcer and a previous ankle fracture. She was treated with a bone stimulator and showed increased bony consolidation. The second nonunion patient was a neuropathic, diabetic who had previous hindfoot Charcot reconstruction. Her nonunion was stable and fibrous, which allowed her to ambulate pain free without bracing or assistive devices.

Conclusion:

This case series presents the first clinical results for this anatomically designed anterior ankle fusion plate. Outcomes were positive with a 90% fusion rate despite being used in a series of patients with a high incidence of risk factors and comorbidities. Additional complications were minor as related to wound healing. Further study is needed to confirm these promising initial results.
Arthroscopic Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus in Old Age Patient
Authors: Lee Hong S. , Young Kiwon , Park Tae-Hoon , Lee Hong Seop
Published: March 2021

Category:

Ankle; Arthroscopy

Introduction/Purpose:

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the outcomes of arthroscopic microfracture for osteochondral lesions of the talus, in patients of older than 60 years old.

Methods:

Sixteen patients (16 ankles) with osteochondral lesions of the talus were treated by arthroscopic microfracture from October 2012 to June 2019. As two patients were lost to follow-up, Fourteen patients (14 ankles) participated in the study. There were 6 men (42.9%) and 8 women (57.1%) of average age 67.4years (range 60-77) at the time of surgery. Clinical outcome evaluations were performed using Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and patient’s satisfaction after surgery at a mean follow-up of 50.8 months.

Results:

Mean FAOS scores improved from SYMPTOM 68.2 points (range 39-86), PAIN 65.1 points (range 36-94), ADL 69.4 points (range 32-99), SPORTS 45.4 points (range 25-80), QOL 47.1 points (range 13-94) preoperatively to SYMPTOM 94.8 points (range 68-100), PAIN 91.1 points (range 48-100), ADL 93.3 points (range 59-100), SPORTS 71.8 points (range 30-100), QOL 79.8 points (range 25-100) at final follow up. Very satisfaction in 4 (29%), Satisfaction in 7 (50%), Fair in 2 (14%), Dissatisfaction in 1 (7%), and reason for dissatisfaction was persistent pain after surgery.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic microfracture for osteochondral lesions of the talus is a safe and effective procedure for old age patient.
Salvage Arthrodesis with Femoral Head Allograft for Failed Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Lee Hong S. , Young Kiwon , Park Tae-Hoon , Lee Hong Seop
Published: March 2021

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Failed total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) often results in significant bone loss and requires salvage arthrodesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of Salvage arthrodesis with allo-bone block for failed TAA.

Methods:

This study included 8 patients who underwent salvage arthrodesis with femoral head allograft for failed TAA from August 2012 to March 2018 because of loosing of TAA implant. The mean age of the patients was 71 years (range, 54-81 years), and the mean follow-up period was 32 months (range, 12 to 84 months). Allograft problem and alignment of joint were evaluated radiographically. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), and visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores were recorded preoperatively and at the time of final followup. Functional questionnaires were used to assess the duration for which the patient could walk continuously, use of walking aids, consumption of pain medication, and the patient’s subjective assessment of the percentage of overall improvement compared with before the salvage arthrodesis.

Results:

The allograft was retained without collapse for a mean of 24 months (range, 12 to 36 months) in four patients. Collapse of the allograft was observed in four patients at a mean of 11 months (range, 9 to 16 months), 1 of 4 patients were conserved to retrograde intramedullary nail at postoperative 12 months because of with implant failure and nonunion. The mean AOFAS and VAS pain scores improved from 12 (range, 8 to 40) preoperatively to 63 (range, 38 to 75) postoperatively (p = 0.001) and from 7 (range, 6 to 10 to 3 (range, 2 to 8) (p = 0.001), respectively. At the final follow-up evaluation, 6 of 8 patients were able to walk continuously at least 30 minutes with walking aid.

Conclusion:

The successful rate of salvage arthrodesis with femoral head allograft was 75% (Six of total 8 patients). The incidence rate of allograft collapse was 50% (Four of total 8 patients).
A comparison of the changes in the patterns of the usage and categorization of the classifier ‘ben 本’ in Korean, Chinese, and Japanese
Authors: Jo Jeong-A
Published: March 2021

This study aims to examine the common features and differences in how the Chinese-character classifier ‘ ben 本’ is used in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese, and will explore the factors that have affected the categorization processes and patterns of the classifier ‘ ben 本.’ Consideration of the differences in the patterns of usage and categorization of the same Chinese classifier in different languages enables us to look into the perception of the world and the socio cultural differences inherent in each language, the differences in the perception of Chinese characters, and the relationship between classifiers.
JAK2-V617F and interferon-α induce megakaryocyte-biased stem cells characterized by decreased long-term functionality
Authors: Rao Tata Nageswara , Hansen Nils , Stetka Jan , Luque Paz Damien , Kalmer Milena , Hilfiker Julian , Endele Max , Ahmed Nouraiz , Kubovcakova Lucia , Rybarikova Margareta , Hao-Shen Hui , Geier Florian , Beisel Christian , Dirnhofer Stefan , Schroeder Timm , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Wolf Dominik , Koschmieder Steffen , Skoda Radek C.
Published: March 2021

We studied a subset of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that are defined by elevated expression of CD41 (CD41hi) and showed bias for differentiation toward megakaryocytes (Mks). Mouse models of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) expressing JAK2-V617F (VF) displayed increased frequencies and percentages of the CD41hi vs CD41lo HSCs compared with wild-type controls. An increase in CD41hi HSCs that correlated with JAK2-V617F mutant allele burden was also found in bone marrow from patients with MPN. CD41hi HSCs produced a higher number of Mk-colonies of HSCs in single-cell cultures in vitro, but showed reduced long-term reconstitution potential compared with CD41lo HSCs in competitive transplantations in vivo. RNA expression profiling showed an upregulated cell cycle, Myc, and oxidative phosphorylation gene signatures in CD41hi HSCs, whereas CD41lo HSCs showed higher gene expression of interferon and the JAK/STAT and TNFα/NFκB signaling pathways. Higher cell cycle activity and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species were confirmed in CD41hi HSCs by flow cytometry. Expression of Epcr, a marker for quiescent HSCs inversely correlated with expression of CD41 in mice, but did not show such reciprocal expression pattern in patients with MPN. Treatment with interferon-α further increased the frequency and percentage of CD41hi HSCs and reduced the number of JAK2-V617F+ HSCs in mice and patients with MPN. The shift toward the CD41hi subset of HSCs by interferon-α provides a possible mechanism of how interferon-α preferentially targets the JAK2 mutant clone.
A randomised trial of
Mycobacterium w
in critically ill patients with COVID-19: ARMY-1
Authors: Sehgal Inderpaul Singh , Guleria Randeep , Singh Sarman , Siddiqui Mohammad Sabah , Agarwal Ritesh
Published: March 2021

Purpose

We investigated whether
Mycobacterium w
(
Mw
), an immunomodulator, would improve clinical outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods

We conducted an exploratory, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of hospitalised subjects with severe COVID-19 (pulmonary infiltrates and oxygen saturation =94% on room air) conducted at four tertiary care centres in India. Patients were randomised 1:1 to receive either 0.3 mL�day
-1
of
Mw
intradermally or a matching placebo for three consecutive days. The primary outcome of the study was the distribution of clinical status assessed on a seven-point ordinal scale ranging from discharged (category 1) to death (category 7) on study days 14, 21, and 28. The co-primary outcome was a change in SOFA (sequential organ failure assessment) score on days 7 and 14 compared to the baseline. The secondary outcomes were 28-day mortality, time to clinical recovery, time to reverse transcription PCR negativity, adverse events, and others.

Results

We included 42 subjects (22
Mw
, 20 placebo). On days 14 (OR 30.4 (95% CI 3.3�276.4)) and 21 (OR 14.9 (95% CI 1.8�128.4)), subjects in the
Mw
arm had a better clinical status distribution than placebo. There was no difference in the SOFA score change on days 7 and 14 between the two groups. We did not find any difference in the mortality, or other secondary outcomes. We observed no adverse events related to the use of
Mw
.

Conclusions

The use of
Mw
results in better clinical status distribution on days 14 and 21 compared to placebo in critically ill patients with COVID-19.
Phenomes: the current frontier in animal breeding
Authors: Pérez-Enciso Miguel , Steibel Juan P.
Published: March 2021

Improvements in genomic technologies have outpaced the most optimistic predictions, allowing industry-scale application of genomic selection. However, only marginal gains in genetic prediction accuracy can now be expected by increasing marker density up to sequence, unless causative mutations are identified. We argue that some of the most scientifically disrupting and industry-relevant challenges relate to ‘phenomics’ instead of ‘genomics’. Thanks to developments in sensor technology and artificial intelligence, there is a wide range of analytical tools that are already available and many more will be developed. We can now address some of the pressing societal demands on the industry, such as animal welfare concerns or efficiency in the use of resources. From the statistical and computational point of view, phenomics raises two important issues that require further work: penalization and dimension reduction. This will be complicated by the inherent heterogeneity and ‘missingness’ of the data. Overall, we can expect that precision livestock technologies will make it possible to collect hundreds of traits on a continuous basis from large numbers of animals. Perhaps the main revolution will come from redesigning animal breeding schemes to explicitly allow for high-dimensional phenomics. In the meantime, phenomics data will definitely enlighten our knowledge on the biological basis of phenotypes.
Gut microbiota composition and functional prediction in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Mei Lijun , Zhou Jiaoli , Su Yimo , Mao Kunhong , Wu Jing , Zhu Caicai , He Ling , Cui Ying
Published: March 2021

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is common and difficult to treat and its pathogenesis is closely related to gut microbiota. However, differences in gut microbiota of patients in different regions make it more difficult to elucidate the mechanism of IBS. We performed an analysis of gut microbiota composition and functional prediction in Chinese patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D).

Methods

Fecal samples were obtained from 30 IBS-D patients and 30 healthy controls (HCs) in Nanchang, China. Using 16S gene sequence profiles, we analyzed the abundance of dominant microbiota at different taxonomy levels. Based on 16S information, Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt) was used to predicting the function of gut microbiota.

Results

Compared to HCs, gut microbiota richness but not diversity was decreased in IBS-D patients. The abundant phyla Firmicutes, Fusobacteria and Actinobacteria decreased significantly, and Proteobacteria increased significantly in IBS-D patients. PICRUSt indicated that function expression of gut microbiota in IBS-D patients was up-regulated in metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism, and down-regulated in environmental adaptation, cell growth and death.

Conclusions

Compared with the normal population in China, IBS-D patients are characterized by complex and unstable gut microbiota, which may influence inflammation and metabolism of the host.
Vaping-associated esophagitis
Authors: Pasricha Trisha Satya , Kochar Bharati
Published: March 2021

Background

Vaping, or e-cigarettes, heat nicotine and other chemicals to create a vapor that is inhaled. The practice has gained rapid popularity with 41 million people globally reporting regular or occasional use. Although tobacco smoking is well-known to increase esophageal acid exposure by augmenting the number of reflux events, the effects of vaping on the gastrointestinal tract have not yet been elucidated. Our objective is to report a case of severe esophagitis associated with vaping, which is the first in the literature to our knowledge.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old male with a history of well-controlled gastro-esophageal reflux disease presented to the emergency room for evaluation of one week of severe odynophagia. He had been treated with a proton-pump inhibitor for several years with good effect. Approximately two months prior to presentation, he started vaping tetrahydrocannabinol and nicotine with recent heavy daily use. He denied any alcohol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. We performed esophagogastroduodenoscopy that revealed Los Angeles Grade C esophagitis (involving ≥ 1 mucosal breaks continuous between tops of ≥ 2 mucosal folds, < 75% circumferential). Histopathological analysis of esophageal biopsies demonstrated granulation tissue with acute and chronic inflammation. Periodic acid-Schiff-diastase staining was negative and immunohistochemical stains for herpes simplex virus and cytomegalovirus were negative. There was no evidence of eosinophilic esophagitis. We treated him with intravenous PPI and analgesics until he was able to tolerate oral intake. He was counseled extensively on vaping cessation and reported complete resolution of symptoms after 2 months.

Conclusion

This patient’s presentation illustrates a serious gastrointestinal consequence of vaping, the long-term consequences of which warrant additional studies. Like smoking, the mechanism of injury in vaping may be, at least in part, due to the effects of nicotine. As prevalence of vaping continues to rise, clinicians should be aware of this complication and carefully solicit a patient’s vaping history as a simple denial of “smoking” can be misleading.
Integrating human‐centred design into the development of an intervention to improve the mental wellbeing of young women in the perinatal period: the Catalyst project
Authors: Taylor Salisbury Tatiana , Atmore Katie H , Nhambongo Inocencia , Mintade Muanacha , Massinga Luciana , Spencer Jak , West Jonathan , Mandlate Flavio
Published: March 2021

Background

Mental wellbeing during pregnancy and the year after birth is critical to a range of maternal and infant outcomes. Many mental health interventions fail to incorporate stakeholder perspectives. The Catalyst Project aimed to work with key stakeholders in Mozambique to develop interventions and delivery strategies which were in-line with existing evidence and the needs, goals, and priorities of those both directly and indirectly involved in its success.

Methods

A qualitative, human-centred design approach was utilised. Focus-group discussions, individual interviews, and observations with young women (aged 16–24 years), their families, community leaders, service providers and government were used to better understand the needs, priorities and challenges to mental wellbeing of young women. These findings were triangulated with the literature to determine priority challenges to be addressed by an intervention. Stakeholder workshops were held to identify potential solutions and co-develop an intervention and delivery strategy.

Results

The 65 participants comprised 23 young pregnant women or new mothers, 12 family members, 19 service providers and 11 staff from the Ministry of Health. Participants highlighted significant uncertainty related to living situations, financial status, education, social support, and limited knowledge of what to expect of the impact of pregnancy and parenting. Family and community support were identified as an important need among this group. The Mama Felíz (Happy Mama) programme was developed with stakeholders as a course to strengthen pregnancy, childbirth and child development knowledge, and build positive relationships, problem-solving and parenting skills. In addition, family sessions address wider cultural and gender issues which impact adolescent maternal wellbeing.

Conclusions

We have developed an intervention to reduce the risk of poor maternal mental health and gives young mothers hope and skills to make a better life for them and their children by packaging information about the risk and protective factors for maternal mental disorders in a way that appeals to them, their families and service providers. By using human-centred design to understand the needs and priorities of young mothers and the health and community systems in which they live, the resulting intervention and delivery strategy is one that stakeholders view as appropriate and acceptable.
Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on youth sport in Australia and consequences for future participation and retention
Authors: Elliott Sam , Drummond M. J. , Prichard I. , Eime R. , Drummond C. , Mason R.
Published: March 2021

Background

COVID-19 continues to represent the single biggest challenge to contemporary community sport globally. Compliance with social distancing policies, strict return-to-play protocols, and COVID-19 specific training has, perhaps, forever changed the way that children and young people engage in organised sport. Within this context, and while many children and families seek to re-engage with community sport, we (researchers and sport practitioners) have an obligation to ask questions about how the pandemic has impacted youth sport, understand the short- and long-term consequences, and explore what (if any) opportunities can be seized to assist and improve future participation and retention. The aim of this paper was to present an in-depth exploration of the impact of COVID-19 on youth sport in South Australia.

Methods

Within an interpretive descriptive methodology, this qualitative investigation draws on rich, individual interview and focus group data with 39 youth (ages 15–18), parents, coaches, and sport administrators. A reflexive thematic analysis was undertaken, leading to the development of four substantive themes.

Results

We conceptualised the ‘4 Rs’ to advance theoretical understandings about the pandemic’s impact on youth sport, including the themes ‘recognising struggle’, ‘reconnection’, ‘re-engaging after restrictions, and ‘reimagining sport’. The themes captured insights about a decline in mental wellbeing and physical activity, an increase in family connectedness, the challenge for sports to attract volunteers and participants back into sport, and the opportunities to reset values and philosophies underpinning the provision of youth sport.

Conclusion

The findings provide valuable insight into the youth sport setting as a result of the global pandemic and suggest that families, sporting clubs and sporting organisations require additional resources and tools (for example, support for parents to facilitate their children’s training at home during lockdown) to aid recovery efforts and to ensure the survival and prosperity of youth sport into the future.
Transvaginal strangulated bowel evisceration through uterine perforation due to unsafe abortion: a case report and literature review
Authors: Tchuenkam Landry Wakheu , Mbonda Aimé Noula , Tochie Joel Noutakdie , Mbem-Ngos Patrick P. , Noah-Ndzie Hugues G. , Bang Guy Aristide
Published: March 2021

Background

Induced abortion, whether therapeutic or elective, is a surgical procedure frequently practiced worldwide. It is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. When the procedure is performed in precarious conditions, by unqualified personnel, it leads to serious consequences, including uterine perforation and its associated lesions. Its management remains a medico-surgical emergency.

Case presentation

We present two cases of unsafe abortions performed by cervical dilatation and intrauterine curettage which resulted in uterine perforation and intestinal evisceration through the vagina leading to acute intestinal obstruction. Both patients underwent intensive resuscitation followed by an emergency laparotomy. The first case was a 26-year-old woman living in rural Cameroon. Following a procedure of termination of her pregnancy, the patient noted the presence of bowel at the vaginal introitus associated with signs of intestinal obstruction. She was transferred to a specialized center was after 4 days later of the onset of the evisceration. Considering the gangrened eviscerated terminal ileum, a right hemicolectomy with anastomosis was performed, as well as a suture of the uterine perforation. The second patient was an 18-year-old African living as a refugee in Cameroon. She was referred for abdominal pain in the context of intestinal obstruction with a viable jejunal loop extruding through the vagina. A simple jejunal resection was performed with end-to-end anastomosis and suture of the uterine perforation. In both cases, the postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusions

Uterine perforation is a serious complication of intrauterine gynecological procedures and instrumental abortion in particular. It can lead to evisceration of the intra-abdominal viscera through the uterine perforation. It is therefore a real surgical emergency with multiple and fatal consequences.