bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of Forecast Uncertainty to Different Microphysics Schemes within a Convection-Allowing Ensemble during SoWMEX-IOP8
Authors: Chen Chin-Hung , Chung Kao-Shen , Yang Shu-Chih , Chen Li-Hsin , Lin Pay-Liam , Torn Ryan D.
Published: November 2021

A mesoscale convective system that occurred in southwestern Taiwan on 15 June 2008 is simulated using convection-allowing ensemble forecasts to investigate the forecast uncertainty associated with four microphysics schemes—the Goddard Cumulus Ensemble (GCE), Morrison (MOR), WRF single-moment 6-class (WSM6), and WRF double-moment 6-class (WDM6) schemes. First, the essential features of the convective structure, hydrometeor distribution, and microphysical tendencies for the different microphysics schemes are presented through deterministic forecasts. Second, ensemble forecasts with the same initial conditions are employed to estimate the forecast uncertainty produced by the different ensembles with the fixed microphysics scheme. GCE has the largest spread in most state variables due to its most efficient phase conversion between water species. By contrast, MOR results in the least spread. WSM6 and WDM6 have similar vertical spread structures due to their similar ice-phase formulas. However, WDM6 produces more ensemble spread than WSM6 does below the melting layer, resulting from its double-moment treatment of warm rain processes. The model simulations with the four microphysics schemes demonstrate upscale error growth through spectrum analysis of the root-mean difference total energy (RMDTE). The RMDTE results reveal that the GCE and WDM6 schemes are more sensitive to initial condition uncertainty, whereas the MOR and WSM6 schemes are relatively less sensitive to that for this event. Overall, the diabatic heating–cooling processes connect the convective-scale cloud microphysical processes to the large-scale dynamical and thermodynamical fields, and they significantly affect the forecast error signatures in the multiscale weather system.
Do Oncologic Outcomes From Head and Neck Versus Truncal and Extremity Melanoma Differ? A Single-Institution Single-Subspecialty Experience
Authors: Baecher Kirsten M , Turgeon Michael K , Medin Caroline R , Mahendran Geetha , Flakes Terrill M , Delman Keith A , Lowe Michael C
Published: November 2021

Background

Outcomes are thought to be worse in head and neck (H&N) melanoma patients. However, definitive evidence of inferior outcomes in H&N melanoma in the modern era is lacking. We sought to ascertain whether H&N melanomas carry a worse prognosis than melanomas of other sites.

Methods

All patients who underwent excision for primary melanoma by fellowship-trained surgical oncologists at a single institution from 2014 to 2020 were queried from the electronic medical record. Patients who had AJCC eighth edition stage I-III disease were included.

Results

Of 1127 patients, 28.7% had primary H&N melanoma. H&N patients were more likely to be male, older, and present with more advanced AJCC stage. Median follow-up was 20.0 months (IQR 26.4). On multivariable analyses controlling for other variables, H&N melanoma was associated with worse RFS. Notably, H&N melanoma was not associated with worse MSS, DMFS, or OS on univariate or multivariable analyses. Among patients who recurred, H&N patients were significantly more likely to recur locally compared to non-H&N patients. On subgroup analysis, scalp melanoma was also associated with worse RFS compared to patients with melanoma in locations other than the scalp. When patients with scalp melanoma were excluded from analysis, non-scalp H&N RFS was not significantly different from the non-H&N group on univariate or multivariable analyses.

Discussion

In this series from a high-volume tertiary referral center, the differences in rates and sites of recurrence between H&N and non-H&N melanoma do not impact melanoma-specific or overall survival, suggesting that H&N melanoma patients should be treated similarly with respect to regional and systemic therapies.
Utilization and Efficacy of Resuscitation Endpoints in Trauma and Burn Patients: A Review Article
Authors: Belaunzaran Miguel , Raslan Shahm , Ali Aleeza , Newsome Kevin , McKenney Mark , Elkbuli Adel
Published: November 2021

Shock is a sequelae in trauma and burn patients that substantially increases the risk for morbidity and mortality. The use of resuscitation endpoints allows for improved management of these patients, with the potential to prevent further morbidity/mortality. We conducted a review of the current literature on the efficacy of hemodynamic, metabolic, and regional resuscitation endpoints for use in trauma and burn patients. Hemodynamic endpoints included mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), urinary output (UO), compensatory reserve index (CRI), intrathoracic blood volume, and stroke volume variation (SVV). Metabolic endpoints measure cellular responses to decreased oxygen delivery and include serum lactic acid (LA), base deficit (BD), bicarbonate, anion gap, apparent strong ion difference, and serum pH. Mean arterial pressure, HR, UO, and LA are the most established markers of trauma and burn resuscitation. The evidence suggests LA is a superior metabolic endpoint marker. Newer resuscitation endpoint technologies such as point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS), thromboelastography (TEG), and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) may improve patient outcomes; however, additional research is needed to establish the efficacy in trauma and burn patients. The endpoints discussed have situational strengths and weaknesses and no single universal resuscitation endpoint has yet emerged. This review may increase knowledge and aid in guideline development. We recommend clinicians continue to integrate multiple endpoints with emphasis on MAP, HR, UO, LA, and BD. Future investigation should aim to standardize endpoints for each clinical presentation. The search for universal and novel resuscitation parameters in trauma and burns should also continue.
Predatory Pricing Under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act of 2019 of Nigeria: An Unfinished Business
Authors: Ubochioma Wiseman
Published: November 2021

Predatory pricing is one of the market practices that are prohibited in competition law. It occurs when a dominant firm sells its product at an unreasonably low price in order to eliminate competitors from the market. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2019 of Nigeria prohibits this practice. This article, therefore, examines predatory pricing under the Act. It argues that the prescription of the cost-based principles of marginal and average cost as sole determinants of predatory pricing under the Act would not provide the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and courts with the appropriate legal standard in determining predatory pricing. It suggests that the provision of the law should be reformed to include the principle of recoupment as a legal standard for imposing liability for the practice against defaulting firms. This will assist the FCCPC and courts to distinguish pro-competitive predatory pricing from anticompetitive predatory pricing.
Quasi-static perforation response of inter-ply hybrid polypropylene composites at various temperatures
Authors: Öztoprak Nahit , Özdemir Okan , Kandaş Halis
Published: November 2021

This study is motivated by the lack of knowledge in the research of mechanical characterization of thermoplastic composites (TPCs) with additional fiber hybridization. To enhance the mechanical properties of long glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene (PP) composite, hybridization via alkaline-treated aramid and carbon fabrics is performed. High performance fabrics modified with 10 wt.% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) aqueous solution are incorporated into the PP composite as reinforcements. Herewith, four arrangements (hybrid composites) for two different reinforcements and two different stacking configurations and the monolithic composite are separately investigated in terms of quasi-static perforation behavior. Failure mechanisms are also evaluated at macro level by visual observations and micro scales through a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental results provide a basis for selecting fiber-enabled hybridization and lay-up configuration with improved perforation resistance. Moreover, the influence of test temperature is reported for three different values as 20°C, 60°C, and 100°C. Based upon the results, the maximum penetration force of hybrid configuration with single-layered aramid fabric reinforcements is approximately 15.5% higher than that of single-layered carbon fabric reinforcements at 60°C test temperature. It is further observed that the absorbed energy improves as the number of fabrics is increased in both aramid and carbon reinforcements. The test temperatures significantly affect the failure mechanisms of TPCs. A smaller damaged area at the penetrated faces of the hybrid structures is obtained by comparison with the monolithic TPCs.
Effect of temperature, time, and shear force on the morphology and size of dendrites in A356-Al2O3 composites
Authors: Ostad Shabani Mohsen , Baghani Amir , Rahimipour Mohammad Reza , Razavi Mansour , Zakeri Mohammad , Heydari Fatemeh
Published: November 2021

Dendrite arm spacing (DAS) plays a vital role in determining mechanical properties of aluminum casting composites. In this study, the effects of three different methods of gravity sand casting, squeeze casting, and semi-solid compo-casting with different electromagnetic stirring currents and times on the microstructural morphology of A356-Al2O3 composites were investigated. In order to investigate effects of shear forces on the formation of the globular-like structure, samples with different stirring electric current and times were produced by compo-casting in semi-solid state and analyzed. Optical emission microscopy was used to study the microstructure and DAS of nanocomposites. Quantitative analysis of microstructure was performed by utilizing an image analysis system. In this study, the optimum temperature for composite fabrication for this type of composite was calculated to obtain the most appropriate morphology and size of the microstructure. Also, the appropriate time to keep this composite at this temperature was obtained, and finally the relevant microstructures were fully discussed.
Numerical and digital image correlation analysis of tensile behavior of thin-ply hybrid laminates with discontinuous carbon sandwiched by continuous glass and carbon
Authors: Ichenihi Amos , Li Wei , Zhe Li
Published: November 2021

Thin-ply hybrid laminates of glass and carbon fibers have been widely adopted in engineering pseudo-ductility. In this study, a Finite Element model is proposed using Abaqus to predict pseudo-ductility in thin-ply laminates consisting of three materials. These materials comprise continuous carbon (CC) and continuous glass sandwiching partial discontinuous carbon (DC). The model adopts the Hashin criterion for damage initiation in the fibers and the mixed-mode Benzeggagh-Kenane criterion on cohesive surfaces for delamination initiation and propagation. Numerically predicted stress–strain results are verified with experimental results under tensile loading. Results show pseudo-ductility increases with the increase in DC layers, and pseudo-yield strength and strain increase with the increase in CC layers. 3D-Digital Image Correlation results indicate delamination growth on pseudo-ductile laminates, and the calculated Poisson’s ratios show pseudo-ductility occurs below 0.27. Moreover, Poisson’s ratio decreases with an increase in pseudo-ductility.
A Presidential Bromance: How Meme Culture Upsets Race, Gender, and Political Power Dynamics
Authors: Erlichman Sara , Pluretti Roseann
Published: November 2021

The fictional interactions created between Obama and Biden in the BROTUS internet memes, a collection of memes highlighting a imagined bromance between President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, may be entertaining, but academic literature on internet memes contends that they also serve as a form of political rhetoric. Internet users create memes to communicate political discourse in the form of visual enthymemes. This article takes a qualitative analysis approach to break down internet user's rhetoric in the BROTUS memes to understand the implications of fictional portrayals of the presidential pair and other political figures. The BROTUS memes in this study exemplified humorous fictional narratives crafted by internet users that shaped the duo to be bromantic, heroic, and even familial. These narrative themes help internet users expresses their approval of an inversion of preexisting political and social power structures.
A CIO-centric local government data-sharing leadership ecosystem in China
Authors: Mao Zijun , Wu Jingyi , Liu Mixia
Published: November 2021

The digital transformation of local government brings about massive change in IT leadership. As the strategic designer and process developer for government data sharing, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) needs to build self-centered leadership systems with strong coordination capabilities and adaptable mechanisms. Through a qualitative multi-case comparative study of three provinces in China, we applied IS innovation ecosystem theory to construct a CIO-centric local government data-sharing leadership ecosystem. The competencies, behaviors, and mechanisms of leadership roles are analyzed in five dimensions (personal, interpersonal, organizational, inter-organizational, and socio-economic and generation). Results show that a CIO-centric local government data sharing ecosystem can be resilient to administrative structure change, facilitating data sharing across levels, regions, and departments through collaborative networks and rotation approach. It provides useful insights into similar practices for constructing data sharing leadership ecosystem in local government, and can bring public value to citizens.
One hundred years of neuroradiology in Acta Radiologica: a Swedish perspective
Authors: Hindmarsh Tomas , Kaijser Magnus
Published: November 2021

This year, Acta Radiologica marks its 100th anniversary. In this article, the authors present some of the highlights from the close collaboration between Swedish neuroradiology and Acta Radiologica over the last 100 years.
Clinical heterogeneity and reduced penetrance in DICER1 syndrome: a report of three families
Authors: Azzollini Jacopo , Ferrari Andrea , Stracuzzi Alessandra , Chiaravalli Stefano , Terenziani Monica , Spreafico Filippo , Grasso Maurizia , Collini Paola , Pensotti Valeria , Massimino Maura , Arbustini Eloisa , Manoukian Siranoush
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

DICER1 syndrome is characterized by increased susceptibility to malignancies, mostly occurring in childhood. The range of phenotypic effects of DICER1 variants is under investigation, and the syndrome’s phenotypic spectrum is steadily widening. We report on three Italian families showing heterogeneous clinical presentation and reduced penetrance in family members.

Case descriptions:

Patient 1 is a 10-year-old girl with a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor. Although family history was unremarkable, genetic testing identified a DICER1 germline variant, inherited from her healthy father. Benign thyroid nodules were subsequently diagnosed in both the proband and her father. Patient 2 is an 8-month-old boy with type 1 pleuropulmonary blastoma. His sister developed a nephroblastoma at age 2 years. A DICER1 novel variant was identified in both siblings and their healthy father. Patient 3 is a 22-year-old man who developed a spinal extramedullary intradural mass diagnosed as rhabdomyosarcoma with a peculiar tubular, gland-like component. Tumor testing revealed two pathogenic DICER1 variants, one of which was confirmed to be germline and identified in his 17-year-old healthy brother and in his father, who showed multiple thyroid nodules.

Conclusions:

Among our patients, three developed tumors most frequently associated with DICER1 syndrome (i.e. pleuropulmonary blastoma, nephroblastoma, and Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor). One developed a peculiar sarcoma of the spinal cord not previously described in DICER1 syndrome. Genetic testing in relatives highlighted the paternal origin and reduced penetrance in all families, with thyroid benign lesions as the most common features in otherwise unaffected individuals.
Frontiers of cosmopolitanism: Educational enclaves and the extractive roots of international schools
Authors: Bolay Matthieu , Rey Jeanne
Published: November 2021

This article situates international expatriate schools in their cultural and political economy by drawing attention to the tensions between a cosmopolitan educational ethos and processes of social, economic and legal enclavement. Based on extensive multi-sited ethnographic research in the international school sector, we show how cosmopolitan claims of openness mirror a relative closure and ‘offshore-like’ enclavement. To do so, we build upon the notions of modularity and extractivism, which we use as heuristics to analyse social and spatial practices of defining boundaries. Gazing beyond the main foundational myth of international schools, we first outline their concomitant extractive roots. Second, we shed light on the conditions of international teachers’ circulation worldwide. Third, we examine the territorial entanglements and disentanglements that characterise international schools. Finally, we investigate the tensions induced by a cosmopolitan educational ethos whose discourse of inclusion is inevitably paired with practices of exclusion.
Representativeness of the PDOPPS cohort compared to the Australian PD population
Authors: Ethier Isabelle , Boudville Neil , McDonald Stephen , Brown Fiona , Kerr Peter G , Walker Rowan , Holt Stephen Geoffroy , Badve Sunil V , Cho Yeoungjee , Hawley Carmel , Robison Laura , Reidlinger Donna , Milanzi Elasma , Bieber Brian , McCullough Keith , Johnson David W
Published: November 2021

Background:

The Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (PDOPPS) is an international, prospective study following persons treated by peritoneal dialysis (PD) to identify modifiable practices associated with improvements in PD technique and person survival. The aim of this study was to assess the representativeness of the Australian cohort included in PDOPPS compared to the complete Australian PD population, as reported to the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant (ANZDATA) Registry.

Methods:

Adults with at least one PD treatment reported to ANZDATA Registry during the census period of PDOPPS Phase I (November 2014 to April 2018) were compared to the Australian PDOPPS cohort. The primary outcomes were the representativeness of centres and persons. Secondary outcomes explored the association of person characteristics with consent to study participation.

Results:

After data linkage, 511 PDOPPS participants were compared to 5616 Australians treated with PD. Within centres eligible for PDOPPS, selected centres were similar to other Australian centres. The PDOPPS participants’ cohort tended to include older persons, more males, a higher proportion of Caucasians and more persons with higher socioeconomic advantage compared to the Australian PD population. Differences in distribution across sex and ethnicities between the PDOPPS cohort and the overall PD population were in part due to the selection and consent processes, during which females and non-Caucasians were more likely to not consent to PDOPPS participation.

Conclusion:

Sampling methods used in PDOPPS allowed for good national representativeness of the included centres. However, representativeness of the unweighted PDOPPS sample was suboptimal in regard to some participant characteristics.
Thursday Night and a Sing-along ‘Sung Alone’: The Experiences of a Self-employed Performer During the Pandemic
Authors: Hancock Philip , Tyler Melissa , Godiva Mark
Published: November 2021

COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on those working in the UK’s creative economy, and particularly its entertainment sector. This article explores the experiences of Mark Godiva, a self-employed musician whose livelihood has been radically threatened by the virus and its associated restrictions. Mark’s story highlights both the continuities and challenges that have been created for those working on the front line of what is a dramatically altered cultural landscape. It illustrates the continuing precarity of his work, and how the need for additional entrepreneurial skills, beyond simply being a performer, have become more important than ever. At the same time, it considers some of the technical, affective, spatial, and even existential challenges associated with working over a range of social media platforms that performers such as Mark have experienced.
Telling Lies, Telling Tales and Telling (and Doing) the Truth: Racism, Moral Repair and the Case for Reparations
Authors: Banner Michael
Published: November 2021

First, in the section ‘Telling Lies’, this article attempts to illustrate recent everyday racism. Racism has a history and takes many different forms. I describe a particular practice of racism (found in Britain, circa 1970), which relied, for its doctrine, on supposedly scientific assumptions about biology and breeding—and received a confirming fillip through the celebration of monarchy, empire and rose-tinted history. Second, in ‘Telling Tales’, the story of Zacchaeus is taken as exemplifying a form of moral repair in which telling and doing the truth are intimately related. Third, in ‘Telling and Doing the Truth’, I contend that telling and doing the truth in relation to racism requires not only a clear naming of racism’s lies but also the making of reparations, for the reason that the lies of racism subtended manifold injustices, of which Atlantic slavery and the exploitation of colonies are notable instances. I take the history of the West Indies as providing a clear case where moral repair is (over)due, and I consider the form that reparations might take.
Comparative effect of dense-and-disperse versus non-repetitive and non-sequential frequencies in electroacupuncture-induced analgesia in a rodent model of peripheral neuropathic pain
Authors: Chao Liaw , Gonçalves Alexandre SR , Campos Ana Carolina P , Assis Daniele V , Jerônimo Rodrigo , Kuroki Mayra A , Sant’Anna Fernando M , Meas Yunsan , Rouxeville Yves , Hsing Wu , Pagano Rosana L
Published: November 2021

Background:

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a complex disease that remains challenging to treat. Low-frequency dense-and-disperse (DD) electroacupuncture (EA) has been used as adjuvant therapy for neuropathic pain; however, its analgesic effect decreases as stimulation time increases, or when it is repeatedly used. We hypothesized that a new frequency parameter could improve the effectiveness of EA, and aimed to compare the efficacy and duration of the analgesic effect between classic DD-EA and non-repetitive and non-sequential frequency (random frequency (RF)-EA) in neuropathic rats. Furthermore, the effect of RF-EA at local traditional acupuncture point locations versus auricular vagus nerve stimulation (aVNS) was evaluated.

Methods:

Male Wistar rats with peripheral neuropathy were subjected to a single session of DD-EA or RF-EA for 20 or 40 min at ST36 + GB34. An additional group of rats was treated with RF-EA for 20 min using aVNS at the appropriate ear point locations. Paw pressure test, von Frey filaments and spontaneous pain scores were evaluated. Sham-operated rats were used as controls.

Results:

In all, 20 min of RF-EA reversed hyperalgesia (for 24 h) and allodynia (for 8 h), showing a longer analgesic effect than DD-EA. Both RF-EA and DD-EA induced partial inhibition of spontaneous pain for 8 h. Forty minutes of DD-EA did not interfere with the NP phenomena; however, RF-EA induced significant long-term analgesia. aVNS induced an analgesic effect similar to local stimulation.

Conclusion:

This pilot study shows that RF-EA at both local traditional acupuncture point and auriculotherapy point locations induces long-lasting analgesia in neuropathic rats, and more effectively so than classical DD-EA.
The Service-Profit Chain: Reflections, Revisions, and Reimaginations
Authors: Hogreve Jens , Iseke Anja , Derfuss Klaus
Published: November 2021

Over the past 25 years, the service–profit chain (SPC) has become a prominent guidepost for service managers and researchers. In this article, we reflect on and synthesize published research to clarify what researchers have learned about the SPC and what remains less well understood. Based on an in-depth discussion of the field, we present a revised SPC and propose multiple areas in which further research would be worthwhile, such as internal service quality as specific systems of human resource management practices, both employee and customer well-being as additional mediators, different targets of employee and customer loyalty, contingencies, and non-linear and feedback effects. We conclude by reimagining the SPC, and we discuss digital and artificial-intelligence–driven changes to the SPC’s structure. Finally, based on the insights we discuss, we inform scholars of the current state of SPC research and provide a detailed agenda for future research.
Comparison between the change in total corneal astigmatism and actual change in refractive astigmatism in transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (tPRK), laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and femtosecond laser assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FsLASIK)
Authors: Bohac Maja , Biscevic Alma , Shijakova Violeta , Gabric Ivan , Gabric Kresimir , Patel Sudi
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To compare changes in astigmatism by refraction and total corneal astigmatism after tPRK, LASIK and FsLASIK.

Setting

Specialty Eye Hospital Svjetlost, Zagreb, Croatia.

Design

Partially masked, semi-randomized, prospective, case-by-case, interventional, clinical study.

Methods

Patients with a stable refraction (-0.75DS to −8.00DS, astigmatism ≤1.00DC) underwent tPRK, LASIK or FsLASIK without complication. Astigmatism was measured at both corneal surfaces over the central 3.2 mm zone (approximately using Pentacam HRTM) preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. Pentacam and refraction data were subjected to vector analysis to calculate the surgically induced changes in i) total corneal astigmatism (SIATCA) ii) any astigmatism by refraction (SIAR) and the vectorial difference (DV) between SIATCA and SIAR.

Results

Reporting key findings (p < .01), there was a significant difference between mean SIATCA and SIAR powers after tPRK (75eyes) but not after LASIK (100eyes) or FsLASIK (100eyes). Mean (±sd,95% CIs) values for DV powers were, tPRK −1.13DC(±0.71, −1.29 to −0.97), LASIK −0.39DC(±0.23,-0.44 to −0.34), FsLASIK −0.55DC(±0.38,-0.62 to −0.47). The differences were significant. For the tPRK and FsLASIK cases, linear regression revealed significant associations between I) SIATCA (x) &DV (z) powers (tPRK z = 1.586x-0.179, r  =  0.767, p < .01; FsLASIK z  =  0.442x-0.303, r  =  .484,p < .01), II) sines of SIATCA (x1) &DV (z1) axes (tPRK, z1 = 0.523 × 1 + 0.394, r = .650,p < .01; FsLASIK z1 = 0.460 × 1-0.308, r = .465,p < .01).

Conclusions

tPRK is more prone to unintended changes in astigmatism. The difference between SIATCA & SIAR after tPRK or FsLASIK is mediated by SIATCA. Photoablating deeper regions of the cornea reduces the gap between SIATCA & SIAR.
A painful red eye in an intravenous drug abuser: When not everything is what it seems
Authors: Leuzinger-Dias Mariana , Godinho Gonçalo , Lima-Fontes Mário , Oliveira-Ferreira Cláudia , Camisa Elisa , Falcão-Reis Fernando , Silva Marta , Figueira Luís
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Endogenous endophthalmitis is a rare but devastating ocular infection, resulting from microbial seeding of the eye during bacteremia or fungemia. Among other sources of septicemia, intravenous drug abuse is a significant risk factor, and endogenous endophthalmitis should always be thought of in any patient with a history of injectable drug use, presenting with a painful vision loss and a red inflamed eye.

Case Description

We report the case of a 47-year-old male, with a history of injectable drug consumption, who presented to our emergency department complaining of a painful red eye and recent deterioration of visual acuity. After the first clinical hypothesis of endogenous endophthalmitis being considered, the final diagnosis of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) B27-associated acute anterior uveitis was established.

Conclusion

Ocular inflammation is one of the most challenging fields in all ophthalmology. Several inflammatory disorders, ranging from a wide variety of infectious and non-infectious conditions, can present themselves with the same clinical signs and symptoms, making their diagnosis extremely defiant.
Parapapillary atrophy in optic neuropathies: Histology and clinical relevance
Authors: Banc Ana , Bianchi Marzoli Stefania
Published: November 2021

Parapapillary atrophy is one of the parameters of the optic nerve head area which are assessed during the ophthalmoscopic examination particularly useful to characterize glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Optical coherence tomography evaluation provides high-resolution images of the optic nerve head and surrounding area, and can be used to study parapapillary atrophy. Different parapapillary atrophy zones were described depending on their histological features and research has been conducted to investigate the possible association between the presence and/ or size of parapapillary atrophy zones and several optic nerve disorders. In this review we discuss the histology and the clinical findings related to parapapillary atrophy in patients with glaucomatous optic neuropathy, non-glaucomatous optic neuropathies (e.g. arteritic and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathies; suprasellar and parasellar tumors), and other ocular conditions (e.g. high myopia; age-related macular degeneration). Two different histologic classifications were identified. Parapapillary atrophy was demonstrated in glaucoma and glaucoma-like neuropathies, but not in other types of optic nerve disorders.
A study of using back-propagation neural model in automatic lubrication installation for the feeding system of computer numerical control machine tool
Authors: Chen Shao-Hsien , Haung Zih-Jing
Published: November 2021

Nowadays, the feeding systems of computer numerical control machine tools are lubricated by periodic oil supply or fixed stroke, the lubrication is insufficient in the case of high load and high-speed movement, and the lubrication is excessive during finishing and low feed rate. This study discusses the optimum lubrication timing of the feeding system. When the feeding system is moving, the servomotor torque value and current, accuracy, and oil film thickness are measured by sensors. Moreover, the lubrication characteristic model is validated and built by using the sensor values, and the optimal lubrication state estimation is obtained by using the back-propagation neural model. Then analyzed and feedback to the machine tool controller, to intelligent the lubrication system. According to the test, when the feed rate is increased by 5 m/min, the friction coefficient increases with rate, increasing the output of the frictional value of the work table by 6.90%. When the load is increased by 175 kg, the friction coefficient decreases with load, reducing the frictional value output of table movement by 6.71%. In the relationship between oil film thickness and current, the accuracy difference between the prediction and actual test results is less than 10%; in the case of the same accuracy, the oil supply frequency is reduced by 80%, and environmentally friendly machine tool has been achieved.
Cricket and the Beechworth Asylum, 1910–1915: A collective biography
Authors: Clark Eileen , Munday Jennifer , Watts Alison
Published: November 2021

Prosopography, otherwise known as collective biography, is a method that has been widely used by historians but is less well known as a sociological research technique. In this article, we review definitions and uses of prosopography, its advantages and limitations. We describe steps in the method with reference to a study of the Beechworth Asylum cricket team in rural Victoria, Australia, and show the extent of members’ involvement with activities in the town. Prosopography is shown to be a useful tool for sociological research, while findings of the study add to the limited literature about staff in Australian asylums.
Following a straight path? The social locations and sexual identity trajectories of emerging adult women
Authors: Campbell Alice
Published: November 2021

The sexual identities of today's young women are more fluid and less consistently heterosexual than those of their predecessors – a trend that can be attributed to shifts in the socio-cultural context over time. However, this cannot explain within-cohort differences in women's identity trajectories. In this article, I draw from critical heterosexuality studies and test how young women's social locations are associated with their propensities to change towards or away from claiming a straight identity. Consistent with expectations, I find that women who occupy a position on the sexual landscape characterised by lower levels of heteronormativity, or who indicate a willingness to break with heteronormative expectations in the future, are more likely to change away from claiming a straight identity over time. My findings suggest that heteronormative ideology continues to structure women's lives to degrees that vary according to their social locations.
Speculating on the liberal arts: Exploring possible futures for humanities education
Authors: Steele Sean
Published: November 2021

The article draws on concepts from speculative design to explore an alternative educational group existing outside the boundaries of an accredited university. Inspired by the imaginative approach of speculative design, I propose a small-scale reading and discussion group as a pathway to explore possible futures open to aspects of humanities education. The concept aims to reposition elements of the humanities from within the degree-granting Canadian university space to engage the wider public through a network meant to ideally foster an interconnected community of learners. This rhizomatic network would provide avenues for those without the means, access, or desire to pursue post-secondary education in the humanities to engage in questions that are relevant to their lived experience. I use an inquiry-based model of learning to explore probable, plausible, and preferable futures for liberal arts education as a way to challenge some current modes of thinking and provoke further discussion and research.
The basic liberties: An essay on analytical specification
Authors: McLeod Stephen K , Tanyi Attila
Published: November 2021

We characterize, more precisely than before, what Rawls calls the ‘analytical’ method of drawing up a list of basic liberties. This method employs one or more general conditions that, under any just social order whatever, putative entitlements must meet for them to be among the basic liberties encompassed, within some just social order, by Rawls’s first principle of justice (i.e. the liberty principle). We argue that the general conditions that feature in Rawls’s own account of the analytical method, which employ the notion of necessity, are too stringent. They ultimately fail to deliver as basic certain particular liberties that should be encompassed within any fully adequate scheme of liberties. To address this under-generation problem, we provide an amended general condition. This replaces Rawls’s necessity condition with a probabilistic condition and it appeals to the standard liberal prohibition on arbitrary coercion by the state. We defend our new approach both as apt to feature in applications of the analytical method and as adequately grounded in justice as fairness as Rawls articulates the theory’s fundamental ideas.
Unbefriended, Uninvited: How End-of-Life Doulas Can Address Ethical and Procedural Gaps for Unrepresented Patients and Ensure Equal Access to the “Good Death”
Authors: Flaherty Adele , Meurer Anna
Published: November 2021

In response to a global population with increasingly complex issues at the end of life, a movement in the U.S. has emerged incorporating doulas into end-of-life care. These end-of-life (EOL) doulas are not just focused on the quality of life, but also the quality of death. Like birth doulas, who provide support for pregnant patients and their families, EOL doulas help alleviate physical and mental discomfort in those who are dying. In this paper, we explore the role of EOL doulas in improving the care of unrepresented patients, who lack decision-making capacity and have no surrogates or documents to guide their healthcare decisions. We argue that EOL doulas may help this traditionally underserved population experience a “good death” by answering several ethical and procedural challenges. As quasi-independent, non-medical members of the healthcare team, they provide a balancing, advocating voice on behalf of the patient, and may also help reduce inappropriate treatment, delays in care, and the overburdening of the public guardianship system. As such, attention should be given to formally defining their place within the healthcare infrastructure. Ultimately, we contend that EOL doulas are key to ensuring optimal, ethical care for unrepresented patient populations.
MXD1 is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Correlated With Specific Molecular Change and Tumor Microenvironment Feature in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Du Feng , Dong Dezuo , Zhang Xiaodong , Jia Jun
Published: November 2021

Background: Identification of novel biomarkers is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This study aimed to reveal the clinical significance and molecular characteristics of MYC-associated factor X dimerization protein 1 (MXD1) in ESCC. Patients and methods: We collected 3 ESCC cohorts to investigate the effect of MXD1 on clinical outcomes. In addition, we compared and analyzed the possible transcription changes between MXD1-low and MXD1-high ESCC patients using bioinformatics. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis was conducted to confirm the potential impact of MXD1 on the prognosis and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Results: MXD1 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was significantly lower in tumors than in normal tissues. Low expression of MXD1 in ESCC was associated with a more aggressive tumor stage and worse prognosis at both the mRNA and protein levels. Moreover, MXD1-low ESCC showed upregulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition and extracellular matrix-related gene sets, and significantly higher NFE2L2 and KIAA1324L mutation frequencies. In contrast, MXD1-high ESCC showed upregulation of tumor differentiation and immune-related gene sets. Furthermore, the CIBERSORT approach showed that high expression of MXD1 was associated with a higher proportion of neutrophils but a lower proportion of M2 macrophages. At the protein level, MXD1 expression was positively correlated with programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PDL1) and CD8 expression. In silico analysis predicted that MXD1-high ESCC was more likely to benefit from immunotherapy. Conclusion: This study suggests that MXD1 is a crucial prognostic factor in ESCC patients and is closely associated with specific transcriptional changes and TIME features.
Longitudinal perspective of autonomy support on habitual physical activity of adolescents
Authors: Moreno-Murcia Juan Antonio , Ramis-Claver Jaime , Ruiz-González Lorena , Rodrigues Filipe , Hernández Elisa Huéscar
Published: November 2021

The evidence collected in the area of physical education indicates the need to continue to delve into the relationships and models that satisfy the basic psychological needs of the students and their consequences, in order to promote a high rate of physical activity. The aim of this study was to test the relationship between autonomy support, basic psychological needs and self-determined motivation with respect to enjoyment, intention towards practice and habitual physical activity. A sample of 717 students, aged between 13 and 19 years old was used. A longitudinal design was carried out with two measurement time points. The results indicated positive relationships for all model variables between the two measurement times. The results obtained are discussed with respect to the use of an interpersonal style to support autonomy in the academic context of physical education classes for the promotion of greater commitment and adherence to physical activity.
The association between an oral glucose tolerance test performed at term pregnancy and obstetric outcomes
Authors: Barak Oren , Yoles Israel , Wainstock Tamar , Gadassi Noa , Schiller Tal , Vaisbuch Edi
Published: November 2021

Aims

Assessing the value of oral glucose tolerance test performed at term pregnancy in identifying obstetric complications.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of women with a normal 50 g glucose challenge test who also had an oral glucose tolerance test at term (defined as at or after 37 weeks of gestation). Comparison between the pathological and normal oral glucose tolerance test groups was performed.

Results

The mean glucose in the glucose challenge test of women in the normal oral glucose tolerance test ( n = 256) group was lower than that in the pathological oral glucose tolerance test ( N = 16) group (105 ± 17 mg/dl (5.8 ± 0.9 mmol/l) vs 117 ± 13 mg/dl (6.5 ± 0.7 mmol/l), p = 0.007). Relevant obstetrical complications did not differ significantly between the groups. Of note, in the pathological oral glucose tolerance test group only one woman delivered a macrosomic infant.

Conclusions

A pathological oral glucose tolerance test performed at term was unable to identify women at risk for impaired glucose metabolism-related obstetric complications and is therefore of limited clinical value and seems to be unjustified.
Right to parental leave must not require employment at the time of birth (C-129/20)
Authors: Hrdlicka Marianne
Published: November 2021

In the recent case XI v Caisse pour l’avenir des enfants (C-129/20), the CJEU was asked to rule on three issues regarding parental leave. First, whether the Directive in force at the time of the submission of the application to take parental leave (96/34) or the one in force at the time of birth or adoption (2010/18) was to be applied. Second, a question was raised on the condition of access to said leave, more specifically, a continuous minimum length of service. Third, the most intriguing problem was whether employment at the time of birth may be a condition for the right to parental leave under Directive 2010/18/EU.
Association of Elmiron (pentosanpolysulphate sodium) with pigmented maculopathy: An update for urologists and patients
Authors: Kailavasan Mithun , Goddard Jonathan Charles
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a difficult disorder to diagnose and manage with a limited number of treatment options that have a good evidence base. Elmiron (pentosanpolysulphate sodium (PPS)) is recognised as a main second-line treatment option in many international guidelines. Recently published retrospective studies suggest that there is an association between Elmiron and pigmented maculopathy, a rare disease associated with visual impairment.

Objectives:

To review the known literature on Elmiron and pigmented maculopathy and alternative oral pharmacotherapy options for BPS. To promote awareness on this topic and aid urologists in managing Elmiron prescription.

Methods:

We reviewed the most commonly used oral treatments for BPS, in particular Elmiron, the current evidence to support this association with eye disease and its position in the management pathway of this complex condition.

Conclusions:

Recent retrospective longitudinal studies have demonstrated an association of Elmiron with pigmented maculopathy. However, as yet the exact nature of this relationship is unknown. Nevertheless, Elmiron remains an important part of the treatment pathway for BPS. We suggest clinicians should fully inform patients of this association, including patients who have been previously comenced on Elmiron. There should be ongoing and continuing reviews of all treatments to review its efficacy in indiviual patients.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
Steady-state visual evoked potentials are unchanged following physical and cognitive exertion paradigms
Authors: Salazar Sophia , Oyewole Femi , Obi Ted , Baron Rebecca , Mahony Dylan , Kropelnicki Anna , Cohen Adrian , Putrino David , Fry Adam
Published: November 2021

Background

There is a need for objective biomarkers of sports-related concussion that are unaffected by physical and cognitive exertion. Electroencephalography-based biomarkers such as steady-state visually evoked potentials (SSVEPs) have been proposed as one such biomarker. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cognitive and physical exertion on SSVEP signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).

Methods

This study involved two experiments. The first experiment was performed in a controlled laboratory environment and involved a treadmill run designed to induce physical fatigue and a Stroop task designed to induce mental fatigue, completed in a randomized order on two separate visits. SSVEPs were evoked using a 15-Hz strobe using a Nurochek headset before and after each task. Changes in the 15-Hz SSVEP SNR and self-reported fatigue (visual analog scales) were assessed. In the second experiment, SSVEP SNR was measured before and after real-world boxing matches. Paired t-tests compared pre- and post-task SSVEP SNR and fatigue scores.

Results

Eighteen participants were recruited for experiment 1. Following the treadmill run, participants reported higher physical fatigue, mental fatigue, and overall fatigue ( p ≤ 0.005; d ≥ 0.90). Following the Stroop task, participants reported higher mental fatigue and overall fatigue ( p < 0.001; d ≥ 1.16), but not physical fatigue. SSVEP SNR scores were unchanged following either the Stroop task ( p = 0.059) or the treadmill task ( p = 0.590). Seven participants were recruited for experiment 2. SSVEP SNR scores were unchanged following the boxing matches ( p = 0.967).

Conclusions

The results of both experiments demonstrate that SSVEP SNR scores were not different following the treadmill run, Stroop task or amateur boxing match. These findings provide preliminary evidence that SSVEP fidelity may not be significantly affected by physical and cognitive exertion paradigms.
Introducing the Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teaching and Learning Companion (The TLC)
Authors: Griffith Gemma , Crane Rebecca
Published: November 2021

Background:

Reflective practice is a key skill which can enable the development of teaching competence among Mindfulness-Based Program (MBP) teachers.

Purpose:

In this article, the Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teaching and Learning Companion (TLC) is introduced. This new tool is based upon the established teaching competence assessment tool, the Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teaching Assessment Criteria (MBI:TAC). The MBI:TAC has enabled benchmarking of international standards of MBP teaching which helps ensure high fidelity to MBP curricula and contributes to the overall integrity of the field. This in turn, underpins the potential of MBPs to be effective interventions for the enhancement of participants’ mental health and wellbeing.

Conclusions:

The TLC aims to facilitate MBP teachers’ development by enabling active reflection focused on the key features of MBP teaching skills.