bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Christian Bioethics:Reflections on a Quarter-Century with the Journal
Authors: Lustig B Andrew 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThis essay reflects on 25 years since Christian Bioethics began publication and, in somewhat autobiographical fashion, engages two core concerns. First, although “non-ecumenism” may often appear a pretext for contention and division, I suggest that a respectful non-ecumenism may provide the opportunity for dialogue and the occasion for employing certain tools from religious studies. Second, although many are skeptical about the possibilities of identifying a “common morality,” a defense of that notion provides a plausible explanation for the development of limited consensus on some issues in bioethics.
Rethinking the Public Sphere in an Age of Radical-Right Populism: A Case for Building an Empathetic Public Sphere
Authors: Korstenbroek Timo 
Published: May 2021

AbstractWith right-wing populist movements gaining ever more traction worldwide, great attention is paid to addressing their exclusionary rhetoric. In this article, I focus on the question how to deal with these radical-right sentiments in our public debates. Believing that both exclusion and inclusion of right-wing populist voices wield counter-productive effects, I juxtapose Habermas’s public sphere theory to Mouffe’s model of agonistic pluralism and posit that both are ultimately insufficient to tackle the populist danger, albeit for different reasons. However, by synthesizing Mouffe’s model with the ideas of Zygmunt Bauman and Iris Marion Young, I introduce the concept of an empathetic public sphere as a model for creating minimal common grounds between right-wing populist “selves” and the “others” they oppose. Finally, I then move this normative model into the realm of media and communication studies and assess how empathetic storytelling might be given shape in today’s fragmented media ecology.
ReMeDy: a platform for integrating and sharing published stem cell research data with a focus on iPSC trials
Authors: Borziak Kirill , Parvanova Irena , Finkelstein Joseph 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Abstract
Recent regenerative medicine studies have emphasized the need for increased standardization, harmonization and sharing of information related to stem cell product characterization, to help drive these innovative interventions toward public availability and to increase collaboration in the scientific community. Although numerous attempts and numerous databases have been made to manage these data, a platform that incorporates all the heterogeneous data collected from stem cell projects into a harmonized project-based framework is still lacking. The aim of the database, which is described in this study, is to provide an intelligent informatics solution that integrates comprehensive characterization of diverse stem cell product characteristics with research subject and project outcome information. In the resulting platform, heterogeneous data are validated using predefined ontologies and stored in a relational database, to ensure data quality and ease of access. Testing was performed using 51 published, publically available induced pluripotent stem cell projects conducted in clinical, preclinical and in-vitro evaluations. Future aims of this project include further increasing the database size to include all published stem cell trials and develop additional data visualization tools to improve usability. Our testing demonstrated the robustness of the proposed platform, by seamlessly harmonizing diverse common data elements, and the potential of this platform for driving knowledge generation from the aggregation and harmonization of these diverse data.

Database URL
https://remedy.mssm.edu/
P325 Real-World Effectiveness And Safety Of Ustekinumab In Patients With Ulcerative Colitis: A Multi-Centre Study
Authors: Parakkal D , Johnson A , Fenster M , Ramos G , Zulqarnain M , Ullman T , Huang L , Gutierrez A , Bruss A , Ungaro R , Cohen B , Gaurav S , Anish P , Sasankan P , Costable N , Pekow J , Wang W , Rubin D , Ciorba M , Beniwal-Patel P , Loftus E , Yarur A 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Pivotal trials have shown that ustekinumab (UST) is effective in ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the population included in these trials do not always represent the cohort of patients treated in the “real world”. In this study, we aimed to describe the effectiveness and safety of UST in a clinical cohort of patients with UC

Methods
We performed a multi-center cohort study and included patients with active UC starting UST. Variables collected included demographics, previous and current UC medications, disease activity (measured using partial and endoscopic Mayo score [PMS and EMS]) at 8 weeks, 6 months and end of follow-up. We also abstracted UST drug level and anti-UST antibodies (AUA), albumin and C-reactive protein levels. Primary outcomes were clinical response at week 8 defined as a reduction of 3 points in the PMS or PMS&lt;2. Secondary outcomes were clinical remission defined as a PMS &lt;2 and endoscopic remission defined as a MES ≤1, and the development of an adverse event (AE) attributed to UST.

Results
Ninety-five patients were included with a median age of 42 years (IQR:32-57) and 53 (56%) were female. Median follow-up was 5 months (IQR:2.2-7.4). Only 4 (4.3%) were naïve to biologics or tofacitinib and 62 (66%) had previous exposure to at least 2 other biologics. No variables were found to be associated with response at week 8 (Figure 2). Those patients who responded at week 8 had higher median albumin levels vs those who did not (median of 4.4 [IQR: 4.1-4.6] vs 4.1 g/dL [IQR:3.8-4.3]; p=0.02). There were no differences in baseline CRP levels (1mg/dL [IQR:0.6-2.8] vs 0.6 mg/dL [0.3-1.5]; p=0.06). Among the 33 patients who had follow-up endoscopic assessment, 7 (21.2%) had achieved endoscopic remission and 4 (12%) achieved histologic remission. Median UST level was 4.1 mcg/ml (IQR:2.5-5.1) and no patients had detectable AUA. Five patients underwent colectomy (5.3%). Only 6 patients (6.6%) presented with an AE (all minor that included, rash, headaches, arthralgias and infection).

Conclusion
In a population enriched with refractory UC, UST was well tolerated and induce response and remission in a significant number of patients. The rate of response was lower in obese patients and those with extensive colitis but was not associated with previous exposure to biologics and/or tofacitinib. Larger studies with a longer follow-up are warranted.

Figure 1: Rates of clinical response and remission in patients with UC receiving ustekinumab

Figure 2: Association between several baseline characteristics and response to ustekinumab in UC
Case report on the importance of longitudinal analysis of left ventricular end-systolic volume, rather than ejection fraction, in a heart transplant patient
Authors: Kerkhof Peter L M , Heyndrickx Guy R 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Sequential determinations of left ventricular (LV) volume constitute a cornerstone in the mechanical performance evaluation of any heart transplant (HTX) patient. A comprehensive analysis of volumetric data offers unique insight into adaptation and pathophysiology.

Case summary
With a focus on eight sequential biplane angiocardiographic LV end-systolic volume (ESV) determinations, we evaluate the clinical course of a male patient following HTX (female donor) at the age of 61 years. This former smoker had a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, and hypercholesterolaemia refractory to treatment, and presented with multivessel coronary artery disease. The later course was complicated by pulmonary hypertension, an abdominal aortic aneurysm, and secondary chronic kidney disease. After an additional episode of pulmonary embolism, the patient died at the age of 79. At one point, the ESV was &gt; 700% higher than the starting value, and actually by far exceeded the relative change of any other volume-based metric evaluated, including ejection fraction (EF).

Discussion
The longitudinal study of LV volumetric data in HTX patients offers a unique window to the pathophysiology of remodelling and sex-specific adaptation processes. The present case documents that proper analysis of serial findings form a rich source of clinically relevant information regarding disease progression. End-systolic volume is the primary indicator, in contrast to the popular metric EF. This finding is supported by population-based studies reported in the literature. We conclude that comprehensive analysis of volumetric data, particularly ESV, contributes to personalized medicine and enhances insight into LV (reverse) remodelling, while also informing about prognosis.
The softer they fall: a natural experiment examining the health effects of job loss before and after Fornero’s unemployment benefit reforms in Italy
Authors: Koltai Jonathan , Varchetta Francesco Maria , McKee Martin , Stuckler David 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Job loss is a well-established social determinant of health. Recent research has taken an ‘institutional turn’, asking whether unemployment support could buffer the health consequences of job loss. Here, we exploit a quasi-natural experiment based on the Fornero reforms in Italy, which increased wage replacement rates from 60% to 75% on 1 January 2013.

Methods
We employed difference-in-difference models using longitudinal data covering 202 incidents of job loss from the EU-Survey on Income and Living Conditions to quantify the impact of job loss on changes in self-reported health prior to and after the Fornero reforms (2011–14).

Results
Job loss pre-Fornero was associated with health declines −0.342 [95% confidence interval (CI): −0.588 to −0.096] but did not significantly influence health post-Fornero 0.031 (95% CI: −0.101 to 0.164). The difference-in-difference estimate was 0.373 (95% CI: 0.107–0.639), or a −0.51 standard deviation in self-reported health, consistent with the buffering hypothesis. To put the magnitude of this estimate in perspective, the incidence of a chronic illness, such as diabetes, results in a similar magnitude decline in self-reported health.

Conclusions
Our analysis contributes to a growing body of evidence that the impact of job loss on health depends critically on the strength of social protection systems and, in some cases, could be eliminated completely.
Synthetic biology approaches to actinomycete strain improvement
Authors: Breitling Rainer , Avbelj Martina , Bilyk Oksana , Carratore Francesco Del , Filisetti Alessandro , Hanko Erik K R , Iorio Marianna , Redondo Rosario Pérez , Reyes Fernando , Rudden Michelle , Severi Emmanuele , Slemc Lucija , Schmidt Kamila , Whittall Dominic R , Donadio Stefano , García Antonio Rodríguez , Genilloud Olga , Kosec Gregor , De Lucrezia Davide , Petković Hrvoje , Thomas Gavin , Takano Eriko 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT
Their biochemical versatility and biotechnological importance make actinomycete bacteria attractive targets for ambitious genetic engineering using the toolkit of synthetic biology. But their complex biology also poses unique challenges. This mini review discusses some of the recent advances in synthetic biology approaches from an actinomycete perspective and presents examples of their application to the rational improvement of industrially relevant strains.
A cross-species approach for the identification of Drosophila male sterility genes
Authors: Ibaraki Kimihide , Nakatsuka Mihoko , Ohsako Takashi , Watanabe Masahide , Miyazaki Yu , Shirakami Machi , Karr Timothy L , Sanuki Rikako , Tomaru Masatoshi , Takano-Shimizu-Kouno Toshiyuki 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Male reproduction encompasses many essential cellular processes and interactions. As a focal point for these events, sperm offer opportunities for advancing our understanding of sexual reproduction at multiple levels during development. Using male sterility genes identified in human, mouse, and fruit fly databases as a starting point, 103 Drosophila melanogaster genes were screened for their association with male sterility by tissue-specific RNAi knockdown and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis. This list included 56 genes associated with male infertility in the human databases, but not found in the Drosophila database, resulting in the discovery of 63 new genes associated with male fertility in Drosophila. The phenotypes identified were categorized into six distinct classes affecting sperm development. Interestingly, the second largest class (Class VI) caused sterility despite apparently normal testis and sperm morphology suggesting that these proteins may have functions in the mature sperm following spermatogenesis. We focused on one such gene, Rack 1, and found that it plays an important role in two developmental periods, in early germline cells or germline stem cells and in spermatogenic cells or sperm. Taken together, many genes are yet to be identified and their role in male reproduction, especially after ejaculation, remains to be elucidated in Drosophila, where a wealth of data from human and other model organisms would be useful.
Abortion quality of care from the client perspective: a qualitative study in India and Kenya
Authors: Baum Sarah E , Wilkins Rebecca , Wachira Muthoni , Gupta Deepesh , Dupte Shamala , Ngugi Peter , Makleff Shelly 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Quality healthcare is a key part of people’s right to health and dignity, yet access to high-quality care can be limited by legal, social and economic contexts. There is limited consensus on what domains constitute quality in abortion care and the opinions of people seeking abortion have little representation in current abortion quality measures. In this qualitative study, we conducted 45 interviews with abortion clients in Mumbai, India, and in Eldoret and Thika, Kenya, to assess experiences with abortion care, definitions of quality and priorities for high-quality abortion care. Among the many aspects of care that mattered to clients, the client–provider relationships emerged as essential. Clients prioritized being treated with kindness, respect and dignity; receiving information and counselling that was personalized to their individual situation and reassurance and support from their provider throughout the entire abortion process, including follow-up after the abortion. Many clients also noted the importance of skilled providers and appropriate care. There were similarities across the two country contexts, yet there were some differences in how clients defined high-quality care; therefore, specific political and cultural influences must be considered when implementing measurement and improving person-centred quality of care. These domains, particularly interpersonal interactions, should be prioritized in India and Kenya when health systems, facilities and providers design person-centred measures for quality in abortion care.
‘Fitting in the pharmacist’ – a qualitative analysis of the perceived relationship between community pharmacists and older adults with complex care needs
Authors: Davenport Huyer Larkin , Desveaux Laura , Nakhla Nardine , Maxwell Colleen , Tadrous Mina 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Objectives
To explore the current perceived relationship between older adults with varying levels of frailty and healthcare needs and community pharmacists.

Methods
This qualitative study conducted a thematic analysis of focus groups with older adults and older adult caregivers and community pharmacist participants. Participants were recruited following a maximum variation sampling technique. Verbatim transcripts were inductively coded using NVivo to develop key findings.

Key findings
Four major themes emerged: (i) Pharmacy Landscape, (ii) Prescription and Non-Prescription Drug Safety, (iii) Patient–Pharmacist Relationship and (iv) Recommendations for Pharmacy Practice. Themes demonstrate three key findings: (1) older adults approach drug information with a key focus on safety and cost of both prescription and non-prescription drugs, (2) there is a demonstrated opportunity, recognized by older adults and practitioners, for community pharmacists to expand their role in the care of older adults, (3) community pharmacists are able, interested and/or have already incorporated frailty assessments into their practice to better support their care of the older adult population with varying levels of frailty.

Conclusions
The results demonstrate a reason for the community pharmacist role to shift. The unique knowledge and skills of community pharmacists, coupled with their accessibility and strong patient–clinician relationship, have the potential to better support older adults with varying levels of frailty.
H
1-stability of the L2-projection onto finite element spaces on adaptively refined quadrilateral meshes
Authors: Ali Mazen , Funken Stefan A , Schmidt Anja 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The $L^2$-orthogonal projection $ {\varPi }_h:L^2(\varOmega )\rightarrow {\mathbb{V}}_h$ onto a finite element (FE) space $ {\mathbb{V}}_h$ is called $H^1$-stable iff $ \|{ {\varPi }_h u}\|_{H^{1}}(\varOmega )\leq C\|{u}\|_{H^{1}}(\varOmega ) $ for any $u\in H^1(\varOmega )$ with a positive constant $C\neq C(h)$ independent of the mesh size $h&gt;0$. Stability of this projection in the $H^1$-norm is an important component in the numerical analysis of FE methods, and it has been extensively studied before for triangular meshes in two dimensions and tetrahedral meshes in three dimensions. In this work, we analyse $H^1$-stability of adaptively refined quadrilateral meshes in two dimensions. We show that the refinement strategies Q-RG and Q-RB, introduced originally in Bank et al. (1983, Some refinement algorithms and data structures for regular local mesh refinement. Sci. Comput., 1, 3–17) and Kobbelt (1996, Interpolatory subdivision on open quadrilateral nets with arbitrary topology. Comput. Graph Forum, 15, 409–420), are $H^1$-stable for FE spaces of polynomial degree $p=2,\ldots ,9$.
Occupation, Sight, Landscape: Visibility and the Normalization of Israeli Settlements
Authors: Zahora Jakub 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThis article contributes toward the understanding of social and political mechanisms that work to normalize and naturalize contested political conditions on the part of privileged segments of the public. I engage these issues via an ethnographic study of Israel's so-called non-ideological settlements in the occupied West Bank, which attract Israelis due to socioeconomic advantages rather than a nationalistic and/or religious appeal. Nonetheless, the settlers’ suburban experiences are in stark contrast to the geopolitical status of their communities as well as the local and international resistance they generate. I draw empirically on interviews and observations conducted in the settlement of Ariel to make sense of this dynamic. Utilizing insights from critical investigations of visuality and landscape, I argue that the normalization of everyday life in the settlements is achieved through the operation of a particular scopic regime linked to the landscape formations in the West Bank. Employing these concepts to investigate the everyday politics of seeing, I show how they channel the settlers’ sight in a way that makes the Israeli rule seem uncontested, naturalized, and even aesthetic in three registers: the depth of visual field, the surroundings, and the people who inhabit the settlements’ landscape.
Feasibility of capturing real-world data from health information technology systems at multiple centers to assess cardiac ablation device outcomes: A fit-for-purpose informatics analysis report
Authors: Jiang Guoqian , Dhruva Sanket S , Chen Jiajing , Schulz Wade L , Doshi Amit A , Noseworthy Peter A , Zhang Shumin , Yu Yue , Patrick Young H , Brandt Eric , Ervin Keondae R , Shah Nilay D , Ross Joseph S , Coplan Paul , Drozda Joseph P 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Objective
The study sought to conduct an informatics analysis on the National Evaluation System for Health Technology Coordinating Center test case of cardiac ablation catheters and to demonstrate the role of informatics approaches in the feasibility assessment of capturing real-world data using unique device identifiers (UDIs) that are fit for purpose for label extensions for 2 cardiac ablation catheters from the electronic health records and other health information technology systems in a multicenter evaluation.

Materials and Methods
We focused on data capture and transformation and data quality maturity model specified in the National Evaluation System for Health Technology Coordinating Center data quality framework. The informatics analysis included 4 elements: the use of UDIs for identifying device exposure data, the use of standardized codes for defining computable phenotypes, the use of natural language processing for capturing unstructured data elements from clinical data systems, and the use of common data models for standardizing data collection and analyses.

Results
We found that, with the UDI implementation at 3 health systems, the target device exposure data could be effectively identified, particularly for brand-specific devices. Computable phenotypes for study outcomes could be defined using codes; however, ablation registries, natural language processing tools, and chart reviews were required for validating data quality of the phenotypes. The common data model implementation status varied across sites. The maturity level of the key informatics technologies was highly aligned with the data quality maturity model.

Conclusions
We demonstrated that the informatics approaches can be feasibly used to capture safety and effectiveness outcomes in real-world data for use in medical device studies supporting label extensions.
Lift the Ban? Initial Employment Restrictions and Refugee Labour Market Outcomes
Authors: Fasani Francesco , Frattini Tommaso , Minale Luigi 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThis paper investigates the medium- to long-term effects on refugee labour market outcomes of the temporary employment bans being imposed on asylum seekers in many countries. Using a newly collected data set on employment restrictions together with individual data for refugees entering European countries between 1985 and 2012, our empirical strategy exploits the geographical and temporal variation in employment bans generated by their staggered introduction and removal coupled with frequent changes at the intensive margin. We find that exposure to a ban at arrival reduces refugee employment probability in post-ban years by 15%, an impact driven primarily by lower labour market participation. These effects are not mechanical, increase non-linearly in ban length, and last up to 10 years post arrival. The detrimental effects of employment bans are concentrated among less educated refugees, translate into lower occupational quality, and seem not to be driven by selective migration. Our causal estimates are robust to several identification tests accounting for the potential endogeneity of employment ban policies, including placebo analysis of non-refugee migrants and an instrumental variable strategy. We estimate a €37.6 billion output loss from the bans imposed on asylum seekers who arrived in Europe during the so-called 2015 refugee crisis.