bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic and Epigenetic Constructs of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Debnath Monojit , Dey Saikat , Sreenivas Nikhitha , Pal Pramod Kumar , Yadav Ravi
Published: April 2022

Background:

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rapidly progressive primary tauopathy characterized by vertical gaze palsy, postural instability, and mild dementia. PSP shows high clinical and pathologic heterogeneity. Although a few risk factors exist, such as advanced age and environmental toxins, the precise etiology remains largely elusive. Compelling evidence now suggests that genetic background plays a pivotal role in the pathogenetic pathways of PSP. Notably, PSP is genetically and phenotypically a complex disorder. Given the tau pathology, several studies in the past have identified microtubule-associated protein tau ( MAPT) gene mutations/variations and its haplotype as the major genetic risk factor of PSP, both in the sporadic and the familial forms. Subsequently, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) also identified several novel risk variants. However, these genetic risk determinants fail to explain the pathogenetic basis of PSP and its phenotypic spectrum in majority of the cases. Some genetic variants are known to confer the risk, while others seem to act as modifier genes.

Besides the complex genetic basis of PSP, the pathobiological mechanisms, differential diagnosis, and management of patients with PSP have further been complicated by genetic conditions that mimic the phenotypes of PSP. This is now becoming increasingly apparent that interactions between genetic and environmental factors significantly contribute to PSP development. Further, the effect of environmental factors seems to be mediated through epigenetic modifications.

Key message:

Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the genetic and epigenetic constructs of PSP and highlight the relevance of genetic and epigenetic findings in the pathobiology of PSP.
Myositis Ossificans Mimicking Soft Tissue Infection in a Neonate—A Case Report
Authors: Krivec Jana Lozar , Vuković Maja , Ključevšek Damjana , Paro-Panjan Darja
Published: April 2022

Myositis ossificans is characterized by heterotopic bone formation in skeletal muscle that may present as a tender, warm, palpable swelling, and mimicking soft tissue infection. We present the clinical and imaging evolution of the disease with a favorable outcome in a preterm baby with complicated postnatal course.
Mental Imagery, Product Involvement and Presence at Virtual Reality Supermarket
Authors: Loureiro Sandra Maria Correia , Correia Carolina , Guerreiro João
Published: April 2022

Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that creates fully immersive and virtual experiences and have been used to create virtual supermarkets and explore consumer behaviour on such alternate reality. The current study uses a VR scenario to analyse the effects of mental imagery, product involvement and presence on customer’s emotions and on the customers purchase intention, during a virtual shopping experience. The proposed model was tested with 108 participants in the laundry detergent category on a VR scenario. Findings reveal that on a virtual setting, mental imagery has the most significant impact on emotions, whereas presence has a strong influence on the purchase decision. Yet product involvement has any effect only on emotions. Moreover, the obsession for laundry products highly decreased the effect of product involvement on purchase intention.
Labour agency in the future of work: Shenzhen’s maker community
Authors: Xia Bingqing
Published: April 2022

Since emerging around 2010, maker culture and the maker movement have drawn little attention from digital labour research. This article fills the gap by exploring sociocultural dynamics that have emerged in maker culture, such as how makers in China mobilise their agency to struggle for a path forward to achieve decent work and a better society. The article first reviews research on the Chinese maker community as well as digital labour, in particular the dualism of exploitation and workplace resistance in current digital labour research. It argues that makers, in the case studied, mobilise certain agency initiating from sociocultural dynamics beyond the framework of exploitation. The article then explicates the argument with cases collected from our fieldwork in Shenzhen’s maker community in July–August 2017. It shows makers’ practices originating from the open-source ethos, such as an awareness of sharing and mutual support in moulding a ‘micro-innovation’ model, and in creating products that aim to benefit vulnerable communities and build up a sustainable ecosystem. The article thus turns the current economic discussion on maker culture in a new direction: the sociocultural impact of the maker movement. Furthermore, it suggests that this research on the sociocultural impact fills the gap between existing digital labour research and maker studies.
Neck Extension and Intraocular Pressure Elevation During Palatoplasty in a Patient with Patau Syndrome and Congenital Glaucoma: A Case Report
Authors: Yu Jihion , Kim Jae Yong , Lee Jiwoong , Park Jun-Young , Hwang Jai-Hyun , Oh Tae Suk , Jeong Woo Shik , Kim Young-Kug
Published: April 2022

Patau syndrome (trisomy 13) is a severe disorder associated with multiple systemic defects. Patau syndrome is commonly associated with ocular abnormalities but rarely associated with congenital glaucoma. To obtain a better surgical view, palatoplasty requires neck extension during surgery. The intraocular pressure (IOP) of patients with Patau syndrome can increase owing to the neck extension position while undergoing palatoplasty, particularly in those with congenital glaucoma. Here, we describe a case with increased IOP measured using a rebound tonometer during palatoplasty in a pediatric patient with Patau syndrome and congenital glaucoma. This case shows that it may be important to reduce the degree of neck extension and shorten the operation time to minimize any increase in the IOP during palatoplasty in pediatric patients with Patau syndrome accompanied by congenital glaucoma.
Illuminating the Dark Side of Values: A Framework for Institutional Research
Authors: Risi David , Marti Emilio
Published: April 2022

Values are pivotal to institutions. Although prior research has mostly highlighted their positive effects, values also have a “dark” side, which we illuminate by looking at cases in which values perpetuate societal grand challenges, such as corruption or climate change. Societal deliberation plays an important role in efforts to change such values. In this essay, we explore how institutional scholars can produce insights that support societal deliberation on values that perpetuate grand challenges. We develop a framework on how institutional scholars can support such deliberation by analyzing (1) which alternative values are attainable and (2) how dominant values create trade-offs. By using this framework, institutional researchers can take a middle position between activist research on values, which jeopardizes the independence of research, and detached research on values, which loses the connection to practical concerns.
Mobile Brain/Body Imaging: Challenges and opportunities for the implementation of research programs based on the 4E perspective to cognition
Authors: Grasso-Cladera Aitana , Costa-Cordella Stefanella , Rossi Alejandra , Fuchs Nikolas F , Parada Francisco J
Published: April 2022

Cognitive dynamics are multimodal, and they need to integrate real-time feedback to be adaptive and appropriate. However, cognition research still relies on mostly unimodal paradigms using simple motor tasks in laboratory-based static situations. This paper addresses this limitation by presenting the Mobile Brain/Body Imaging approach based on the Embodied, Embedded, Extended, and Enactive perspective, which complements traditional laboratory work while also facilitating ecologically valid applications. First, we briefly review Mobile Brain/Body Imaging technologies used to obtain functional and structural images of the Brain/Body System during natural cognition. Specifically: mobile cognitive electrophysiology, mobile functional neurovascular dynamics, and mobile behavioral measurements. Second, we review the development of Mobile Brain/Body Imaging/4E in Chile. Finally, we discuss challenges and opportunities. We conclude that although this new epistemic/methodological approach is promising, there is a need for greater portability, robust equipment, and data-analysis tools that can integrate signals from the brain/body-in-the-world system. Future experimental designs need to re-consider their underlying logic and increase their ecological validity by-perhaps-modifying the physical spaces in which experiments are conducted.
Reintervention rate in glaucoma filtering surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Marolo Paola , Reibaldi Michele , Fallico Matteo , Maugeri Andrea , Barchitta Martina , Agodi Antonella , Parisi Guglielmo , Caselgrandi Paolo , Ventre Luca , Ahmed Iqbal Ike K.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Reintervention rate is an important factor impacting on patients, surgeons, and society. To date, only a few studies have focused on this topic. For this reason, a systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to assess the reintervention rate after glaucoma filtering surgery.

Materials and Methods

Prospective studies reporting the reintervention rate after glaucoma filtering surgery and with at least 12 months of follow-up were systematically searched on PubMed, Medline and Embase databases. The primary outcome was the total reintervention rate following surgery. Secondary outcomes were: the rate of manipulation, in-clinic and in-operating room reintervention; the reintervention rate for intraocular pressure (IOP) control and for complications; demographic, clinical and surgical variables associated with reintervention rate.

Results

Ninety-three studies with a total of 8345 eyes were eligible. The total reintervention rate was 1.84 (95% CI 1.57–2.13), with a lower rate for Baerveldt (0.53, 95% CI 0.29–0.83) and Preserflo (0.60, 95% CI 0.15–1.29), and a higher rate for Xen (4.26, 95% CI 2.59–6.31). The manipulation rate was 0.99 (95% CI 0.77–1.23), the in-clinic reintervention rate was 0.08 (95% CI 0.05–0.12) and the in-operating room reintervention rate was 0.28 (95% CI 0.22–0.35). The reintervention rate for IOP control was 1.26 (95% CI 1.04–1.51) and the reintervention rate for complications was 0.27 (95% CI 0.21–0.35).

Conclusions

All types of surgery presented a total reintervention rate similar to the overall findings, except studies on Baerveldt and Preserflo Microshunt, with a lower rate, and Xen, with a higher rate. None of the variables evaluated were found to be directly associated with the explored outcomes.
Pleasuring bodies: Performativity and sexual play
Authors: Clay Simon
Published: April 2022

This article explores the ways gay and queer men employ the concept of ‘play’ in relation to sex. Using Judith Butler’s theory of performativity to analyse the experiences of 16 individuals from Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia who identified as a gay and/or queer man or a member of the gay community, I present how my participants used ‘play’ to refer to casual and/or kinky sexual encounters, describe certain safer sex practices, and delineate the difference between queer and straight sexual identities. ‘Playing’ also involved a range of personally cultivated rules connected to the pursuit of well-being. When these rules were broken, the activity no longer felt ‘playful’ and became risky for some. ‘Play’ was ultimately a way for my participants to discuss how risk, pleasure, desire, identity, relationships, and personal well-being related to sexual practices.
Pride, belonging and community: What does this mean if you are Aboriginal and LGBT+ and living in Western Australia?
Authors: Hill Braden , Dodd Jennifer , Uink Bep , Bonson Dameyon , Bennett Sian
Published: April 2022

The lived experience of being LGBT+ and an Aboriginal person was a major focus of the mixed methods Breaking the Silence research project led by Aboriginal LGBT+ researchers. Aboriginal LGBT+ participants were invited to respond to a survey that canvassed how they were included and accepted within their own families, on social media, dating apps and the wider community. The analysis and discussion of the findings from the survey examine the issues of discrimination, racism, homophobia and what belonging to a community means for intersectional identities. The findings show that while participants do experience microaggressions and queer-phobia, they also describe agency and positive experiences. The question is how these instances of resistance and disruption can be enabled to proliferate and (if appropriate) be supported collectively, to enable Aboriginal LGBT+ individuals to experience a sense of pride and belonging to communities at times and in spaces of their own choosing.
Co-producing industrial public goods on GitHub: Selective firm cooperation, volunteer-employee labour and participation inequality
Authors: O’Neil Mathieu , Muselli Laure , Cai Xiaolan , Zacchiroli Stefano
Published: April 2022

The global economy’s digital infrastructure is based on free and open source software. To analyse how firms indirectly collaborate via employee contributions to developer-run projects, we propose a formal definition of ‘industrial public goods’ – inter-firm cooperation, volunteer and paid labour overlap, and participation inequality. We verify its empirical robustness by collecting networks of commits made by firm employees to active GitHub software repositories. Despite paid workers making more contributions, volunteers play a significant role. We find which firms contribute most, which projects benefit from firm investments, and identify distinct ‘contribution territories’ since the two central firms never co-contribute to top-20 repositories. We highlight the challenge posed by ‘Big Tech’ to the non-rival status of industrial public goods, thanks to cloud-based systems which resist sharing, and suggest there may be ‘contribution deserts’ neglected by large information technology firms, despite their importance for the open source ecosystem’s sustainability and diversity.
A side-by-side methodological approach: Shared experience, informality and adaptation
Authors: Lepp Eric
Published: April 2022

In shifting environments common to peace and conflict research, methodological grounding is rooted in the fluctuating roles undertaken by the researcher through time and space as one seeks a worldview that is experienced by research participants. This article introduces a side-by-side methodological approach, which developed through research of cross-community interaction amongst ice hockey supporters in Belfast. Influenced by qualitative research that sought to access local voices, this article moves from conceptual guidance and planning into the stands of the SSE Arena, where interviews were conducted with the person in the seat beside the researcher during ice hockey games. In doing so, this immersive methodology offers a contribution to unearthing unheard voices in this oft-studied region through the opportunity to make connection that was unscripted, aided by the informality of the research setting and the limited face-to-face interaction.
‘Through no fault of their own’: Social work students’ use of language to construct ‘service user’ identities
Authors: Skoura-Kirk Eleni
Published: April 2022

The way social workers discursively construct ‘service user’ identities in everyday interactions (interviews, conversations and text) can affect quality of relationships and practice outcomes. Even though research has focused on the construction of ‘service user’ identities by professionals and service users, little has been done to explore such discursive formulations by pre-qualifying social work students. This is especially relevant, given the strengthening of the ‘expert by experience’ identity in social work education. This paper seeks to make visible mechanisms of student identity constructions as to ‘who a service user is’, and implications for practice through the examination of student written work pre- and post- a module focussing on lived experience. A critical discursive psychology approach was followed, recognising the interplay between localised professional encounters and wider contexts of power relations. The findings show a shift in the ‘service user’ identities employed by the students mainly based on individualistic discourses and deserving/undeserving themes (substance misuse the result of vulnerability, rather than selfishness, domestic abuse narratives denoting resilience rather than victimhood). The effect to practice showed shifts between the reflective, expert, person-centred and critical/radical practitioner, mainly stressing the need for professional growth at an individual level, with less emphasis on addressing social inequality. The paper argues that predominantly individualistic discourses can perpetuate de-politicised or oppressive categorisations of ‘service users’ and calls for further critical engagement with the discursive micro-practises enacted and developed in the social work classroom, if we are to unveil and challenge narrow, or stigmatising categorisations early on.
A Trait-Based Consumer Segmentation for Food Waste Reduction Campaigns
Authors: Kutlu Mustafa Bilgehan
Published: April 2022

Background:

While there is still hunger in the world, a significant amount of food is wasted, which harms the environment. This study focuses on food waste at the consumer level and investigates the role of personality traits on food-waste-aversion.

Focus of the Article:

Segmentation with personality traits for food waste reduction campaigns.

Research Question:

Is there a link between personality traits and food-waste-aversion? Are there any associations among consumers’ levels of food-waste-aversion, frugality, conscientiousness, and religiosity?

Importance to the Social Marketing Field:

Segmentation is a neglected marketing tool in designing campaigns against food waste. This study identifies possible market segments of social marketing campaigns against food waste. In addition, associations among food-waste-aversion and personality traits of conscientiousness, frugality, and religiosity are shown in this study.

Methods:

This study adopts a cross-sectional research design. A convenience sample of 301 consumers in Turkey is surveyed via an online questionnaire.

Results:

Results of Chi-Square Automatic Interaction Detector (CHAID) analysis indicate five distinct consumer segments, namely frugal believers, frugal seculars, conscientious individuals, casual females, and casual males. Moreover, positive associations ( p < 0.001) among food-waste-aversion and personality traits of conscientiousness, frugality, and religiosity are shown.

Recommendations for Research or Practice:

This study provides a segmentation procedure with the trait perspective. Frugality, conscientiousness, and religiosity traits can play an essential role in food waste reduction. Targeting individuals with communications fit with their personality is likely to increase the success of food waste reduction interventions.

Limitations:

Due to a lack of behavioral data, this study investigates food waste at the attitudinal level. Further study could use behavioral measures. In addition, the majority of participants in the survey are Muslim. In order to validate research findings across different cultures, it should be carried out in other countries.
COVID-19 active case findings based on self-collected saliva samples with CRISPR-Cas12a detection
Authors: Chantaravisoot Naphat , Kaewsapsak Pornchai , Mayuramart Oraphan , Nimsamer Pattaraporn , Mankhong Suwanan , Chomta Nantinee , Bootsri Rungnapa , Alee Isara , Wongkongkathep Piriya , Treeprasertsuk Sombat , Payungporn Sunchai
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus affecting the world population. Early detection has become one of the most successful strategies to alleviate the epidemic and pandemic of this contagious coronavirus. Surveillance testing programs have been initiated in many countries worldwide to prevent the outbreak of COVID-19. In this study, we demonstrated that our previously established clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas12a-based assay could detect variants of concern during 2021 in Thailand, including Alpha, Beta, and Delta strains as well as Omicron strain in early 2022. In combination with the newly designed saliva collection funnel, we established a safe, simple, economical, and efficient self-collection protocol for the COVID-19 screening process. We successfully utilized the assay in an active case finding with a total number of 578 asymptomatic participants to detect the SARS-CoV-2 in saliva samples. We finally demonstrated that the validation and evaluation in a large-scale setting could provide valuable information and elaborate the practicality of the test in real-world settings. Our optimized protocol yielded effective results with high sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy (96.86%). In addition, this study demonstrates COVID-19 active case findings in low-resource settings, which would be feasible and attractive for surveillance and outbreak prevention in the future.
The antifibrotic role of natural killer cells in liver fibrosis
Authors: Wei Yuan , Bingyu Wang , Lei Yang , Xingxing Yuan
Published: April 2022

Liver fibrosis is the common pathological change of chronic liver diseases characterized by increased deposition of extracellular matrix and reduced matrix degradation. In response to liver injury caused by a variety of pathogenic agents, such as virus and alcohol, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are differentiated into myofibroblast-like cells and produce excessive collagens, thus resulting in fibrogenesis. Natural killer (NK) cells are the essential innate immune cells in the liver and generally control fibrosis by killing activated HSCs. This review briefly describes the fibrogenesis process and the phenotypic features of hepatic NK cells. Besides, it focuses on the antifibrotic mechanisms of NK cells and explores the potential of activating NK cells as a therapeutic strategy for the disease.
Stimulus Induced Rhythmic, Periodic, or Ictal Discharges (SIRPIDs) and its Association with Non-convulsive Status Epilepticus in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Capecchi Francesco , di Giacopo Andrea , Keller Emanuela , Mothershill Ian , Imbach Lukas L.
Published: April 2022

Stimulus induced repetitive periodic or ictal discharges (SIRPIDs) are a commonly observed EEG pattern in critically ill patients. However, the epileptic significance of SIRPIDs remain unclear. We identified and reviewed 55 cases with SIRPIDs according to the ACNS criteria. SIRPIDs occurred after standardized painful stimuli during a standard 20-minute EEG. These cases were investigated regarding their relation to non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) according to Salzburg Consensus Criteria and in-hospital mortality. In 37/55 patients (67.3%), SIRPIDs were associated with NCSE. In most patients (26/37 cases, 70.3%) with concurrent status epilepticus, SIRPIDs occurred after status epilepticus (on average 4.8 days later), but in 3/37 patients (8.1%) they were observed before a later status epilepticus. In four cases (4/37 cases, 10.8%), SIRPIDs appeared both before and after an episode of NCSE and in other four cases the two patterns coexisted in the same EEG. In 50% of the patients, status epilepticus was refractory, super-refractory or the patient died before its resolution. The overall mortality in the cohort was high at 58.2%. These findings corroborate the hypothesis that SIRPIDs might represent a state with increased epileptogenic potential, commonly co-occurring with NCSE. Furthermore, SIRPIDs are associated with therapy-refractory course of status epilepticus and high mortality.
Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant, and Inhibition Activity of Picrorhiza kurroa Against α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase
Authors: Nisar Jaweria , Shah Syed Muhammad A. , Akram Muhammad , Ayaz Sultan , Rashid Abid
Published: April 2022

Picrorhiza kurroa (P.K) usually familiar as kutki is a well-known plant in the Ayurvedic system of medicine due to its reported activities including antidiabetic, antibacterial, antioxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective. The current research was intended to evaluate the antioxidant, inhibition activity of the ethanolic, methanolic, and aqueous extracts of P.K roots against α-amylase and α-glucosidase in vitro, after the phytochemical analysis . For this purpose, P.K roots were extracted with ethanol (EthPk), methanol (MthPk), and distilled water (AqPk) and phytochemical study of the extracts were performed to recognize the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoids content (TFC). Antioxidant capability of the extracts was assessed by FRAP, ABTS, and DPPH assay. α-amylase inhibitory and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities were also determined. Software SPSS-23 was used to statistically analyze with One Way ANOVA and results were stated as mean standard deviation. Result of the study showed that MthPk contained the maximum concentration of TPC and TFC than EthPk and AqEh. Antioxidants in terms of DPPH (lowest IC50 = .894 ± .57), FRAP (612.54 ± 11.73) and ABTS (406.42 ± 4.02) assay was also maximum in MthPk. MthPk was also showed maximum inhibition activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase with lowest IC50 (.39 ± .41; .61 ± .24), respectively. The extracts α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities order was as MthPk > EthPk> AqPk. Results clearly specified that the methanolic extract of Picrorhiza kurroa have the maximum antioxidant, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. A positive correlation of TPC, TFC with antioxidant, and α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition activities of the P.K roots were also shown. The plant has capability to diminish the oxidative stress and can be used to treat diabetes by inhibiting α-amylase and α-glucosidase actions.
The Social Scientist as Security Actor
Authors: Krüger Christine G.
Published: April 2022

Recent historiography has been more positive about the Wilhelmine German Empire, which long had a poor reputation. This might be partly due to the trend towards transnational history with a specific focus on transfer and exchange. This article argues that from such a perspective the re-evaluation of the German Empire may easily overshoot the mark. Focusing on a comparative study of Hamburg and London, it analyses a classic topic of transnational history—the field of science and social reform. However, by approaching it in the context of a history of security, the article provides a valuable corrective in the debate on the German Empire. It thereby also opens a new path for the history of security. Although security and knowledge are closely interrelated, this relationship has been rather neglected in the historiography. It is argued here that security concerns related to social unrest were a major factor that gave rise to the emergence of the social sciences at the turn of the 20th century. Social reformers and social scientists believed that supposedly neutral scientific knowledge was a prerequisite for resolving social conflicts. However, public acceptance of their expert status in security matters was far from self-evident. While they met fierce opposition in Hamburg, liberal and democratic traditions facilitated its acceptance in London.
An investigation on the dynamic characteristics of a two-dimensional piston flowmeter
Authors: Ding Chuan , Chen Hao-qi , Zhang Li-chao , Xia Ning , Ruan Jian
Published: April 2022

The immediate measurement of dynamic flow rate is of importance in the modern hydraulic system. Following a brief review and analysis on measuring methods of dynamic flow rate, authors introduced the structure and working principle of a two-dimensional piston dynamic flowmeter. Consequently, a mathematical model was carefully established based on its unique mechanical properties due to the two degrees of working freedom. Meanwhile, the transform function is obtained to describe the dynamic characteristics and used to discuss influences from various design parameters. Finally, a 3D printed prototype was designed and fabricated to measure the sinusoidal flow rate with the frequency range of 1–7 Hz on a calibration test rig. The discrepancy between the experimental and the simulated date is quite foreseeable considering the major influence of low oil bulk modulus due to air bubbles. Although the magnitude reaches −3 dB at 4 Hz, the dynamic characteristics are acceptable and can verify the feasibility of applying the two-dimensional piston flowmeter on the dynamic measurement field. The shortcomings of this prototype are well discussed in the conclusion part to provide guidance to enhance the design ability of next-generation prototypes.
Review of multiple unmanned surface vessels collaborative search and hunting based on swarm intelligence
Authors: Wu Gongxing , Xu Taotao , Sun Yushan , Zhang Jiawei
Published: April 2022

In recent years, the research of multiple unmanned surface vessels collaboration has received great attention. More and more researchers have proposed different methods of multiple unmanned surface vessels collaboration, such as cooperative collision avoidance, formation, and rendezvous. Based on the significant advantages of biological swarm intelligence applications in these collaborative methods, this article summarizes the research methods of multiple unmanned surface vessels collaborative search and hunting from the perspective of swarm intelligence. First of all, this article summarizes the key technologies of multiple unmanned surface vessels collaborative search and hunting from the aspects of the multi-robot system, group communication, environment modeling, collaboration mechanism, and path planning. Then, it reviews some classic swarm intelligence algorithms, analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of these algorithms, and proposes optimization directions for existing disadvantages based on relevant literature. Finally, the article points out some existing problems in every stage and suggestions for future research.
Tablet-Supported Self-Assessment in a Class for Students with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Räty Lauri M. O. , Vehkakoski Tanja , Pirttimaa Raija A.
Published: April 2022

Self-assessment has been shown to have positive effects on students’ self-regulated learning strategies and academic achievement. However, self-assessment and self-assessment instruction are under-researched areas among students with intellectual disability. This data-driven qualitative study aimed at examining the self-assessment expressions students with intellectual disability documented in their learning diaries and how the teacher and teaching assistants used video recordings to facilitate students’ self-assessments in one Finnish special needs education class. The naturally occurring research data consisted of both students’ tablet-based learning diaries ( N = 6) and video recordings of students’ self-assessment situations ( N = 17). The results show that students’ self-assessment expressions varied from short and vague expressions to argumentative and reflective assessments. The use of video recordings served various functions, such as directing and instructing students, demonstrating assessment and providing feedback. The outcomes of this study demonstrate how the self-assessment practices of students with intellectual disabilities can be facilitated by using video.
Time-course analysis following initial warm-up to inform pre-pitch entry preparations of soccer substitutes
Authors: Swinton Paul A. , Symon Kevin , Maughan Patrick , Burgess Katherine E. , Dolan Eimear
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the time-course of decrements in physical performance following a pre-match warm-up in soccer players. Knowledge of this information could be used to inform re-warm-ups and pre-pitch entry practices of soccer substitutes. Data were collected over five sessions with 12 male youth professionals (15–17 yrs). Across the five sessions each player performed countermovement jumps (CMJ) and drop jumps (30 and 40 cm), pre-warm-up, immediately post-warm-up, and following 10-, 20-, 30-, 40-, and 50-min of inactivity. Physical performance was assessed by jump height and calculation of reactive strength index (RSI). Hierarchical generalised linear models (HGLMs) were fitted within a Bayesian framework to identify plausible time to achieve 10 to 50% decrements of the initial pre to post warm-up improvement. Mean improvements of 5.4 cm (95%CrI: 4.8 to 6.0), 0.24 ms−1 (95%CrI: 0.19 to 0.29), and 0.32 ms−1 (0.27 to 0.36) were obtained for the CMJ, and RSI measured from the 30 and 45 cm box, respectively. Decrements for all assessments were non-linear with the steepest rates of decline measured in the initial periods following warm-up. High probabilities were calculated ( p ≥ 0.979) that up to 50% of the initial warm-up improvement for the CMJ would be lost between 20 and 30 min. The results of this study provide a guide for future research and practitioners managing the pre-pitch entry of soccer substitutes. It is suggested that practitioners consider and assess the effectiveness of exposing players to a re-warm-up between 20- and 30-min prior to pitch entry to maintain performance capabilities.
Assessment of the patient with syncope
Authors: Gill Harjeevan
Published: April 2022

Syncope is a transient loss of consciousness due to cerebral hypoperfusion, characterised by rapid onset, short duration and spontaneous complete recovery. The causes range from self-limiting episodes of reflex syncope to conditions that can precede severe illness or death. GPs often provide the first assessment of patients with syncope and this article aims to guide the assessment of these patients to help identify the cause. This will include exploring the common causes of syncope, history taking, examination, investigations, red flags in syncope and management.
The End of the “Golden Era”? The Conundrum of Britain's China Policy Amidst Sino-American Relations
Authors: Leoni Zeno
Published: April 2022

This analysis contributes to a fast-growing body of literature on Sino-Western relations and the tension between economic and security interests. It takes Britain's China policy as a case study considering the Integrated Review 2021. It argues that London's stance towards Beijing has shifted – officially – from the so-called “golden era” to a complex phase of diplomatic–military tensions and scrutinised economic relations, principally because of US pressure. However, this shift de facto has not had a structural impact on the economic side of the relationship between London and Beijing. The article reaches this conclusion by framing its narrative through the lens of the economy-security conundrum at the heart of the Liberal International Order and through the lens of the New Cold War between the US and China. These two factors are crucial for understanding the change between Britain's China policy pre- and post-2016.
Strychnovanosides A - C, Three New Lignan Glycosides from Strychnos vanprukii
Authors: Mai Nguyen Chi , Ban Ninh Khac , Trung Truong Quang , Hoang Dinh Thien , Van Thanh Bui , Trang Do Thi , Tai Bui Huu , Van Kiem Phan
Published: April 2022

Phytochemical study of the methanolic extract of the stems and leaves of Strychnos vanprukii led to the isolation of three new (1-3) and four known (4-7) compounds. Their chemical structures were elucidated to be (+)-lyoniresinol 3 α-O- β-D-allopyranoside (1), (-)-lyoniresinol 3 α-O- β-D-allopyranoside (2), 2 α-[(3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxy)-benzoyl]-(-)-lyoniresinol-3 α-O- β-D-glucopyranoside (3), (+)-lyoniresinol 3 α-O- β-D-glucopyranoside (4), (-)-lyoniresinol 3 α-O- β-D-glucopyranoside (5), palicoside (6), and rutin (7) by means of detailed HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis. In addition, the absolute configurations of 1–3 were determined by experimental Circular Dichroism (CD) spectra. This is the first report of compounds 5 and 7 from S. vanprukii. Compounds 1 - 7 showed inhibitory effects on NO production in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells with IC50 values of 58.50 ± 2.30, 67.70 ± 2.23, 54.44 ± 1.26, 71.58 ± 3.59, 74.47 ± 2.61, 83.62 ± 2.25, and 47.57 ± 4.01 µM, respectively, compared to a value of 43.24 ± 2.41 µM for the positive control compound, NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA).
Online and Offline Battles: Usage of Different Political Conflict Frames
Authors: van der Goot Emma , Kruikemeier Sanne , de Ridder Jeroen , Vliegenthart Rens
Published: April 2022

Conflict framing is key in political communication. Politicians use conflict framing in their online messages (e.g., criticizing other politicians) and journalists in their political coverage (e.g., reporting on political tensions). Conflicts can take a variety of forms and can provoke different reactions. However, the literature still lacks a systematic and theoretically-grounded conceptual framework that accounts for the multi-dimensionality of political conflict frames. Based on literature from political epistemology, political communication, and related fields such as psychology, we present four conceptual dimensions of political conflicts: (1) the style (civil/uncivil); (2) the subject (personal/substantive); (3) whether it is about underlying moral/epistemic principles or not (deep/superficial conflict); and (4) whether it concerns a normative or factual issue. Results of a content analysis of newspaper articles and politicians’ tweets confirm the usage of these conflict dimensions in the Netherlands during a non-election period. Interestingly, most of the conflicts are civil, substantive, and do not highlight deep fundamental clashes. In light of the current societal concerns about the lack of respect in political debates and the deepening of our political divides, these findings can be considered encouraging.
Microscopic testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) for azoospermia at a large tertiary referral centre: Male and female factors and outcomes
Authors: Abu Yousif Mohamed , Kwok Abigail , Jones Richard , Chong Daphne , Russell Richard , Drakeley Andrew , Baird Andrew , Lucky Marc
Published: April 2022

Objectives:

To report on the outcomes and demographics of azoospermic couples undergoing microscopic testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) in a large tertiary referral centre.

Subjects and methods:

A retrospective study of patients undergoing micro-TESE in a tertiary referral centre from March 2015 to August 2019 was undertaken. Histopathology, patient demographics, comorbidities, patient factors and live birth outcomes were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 102 micro-TESEs were performed with a sperm retrieval rate (SRR) of 30.3%. The successful group had a mean age of 32.7 years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 26.8 kg/m2. Female partners in the successful group had a mean age of 32.2 years. Twenty percent of female partners had infertility factors, 86.7% had no previous pregnancy and 13.3% had a previous miscarriage. The successful group had 15 live births (50%), while 20% had frozen their sperm. 93.3% achieved live birth from single embryo transfer and currently have unutilised embryos in cryostorage to possibly create siblings in the future. Twenty percent had more than one live birth from a single micro-TESE. Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) was identified in 57.5% of all cases. This was bilateral in 80% of these cases (four cases only sampled unilaterally due to previous orchidectomies). Of the SCOS group, six men went on to have successful sperm extraction (10%). The presence of previous urologic history/surgery increased the risk of azoospermia by 13%.

Conclusion:

Men with previous urological conditions have an increased risk of azoospermia. SCOS was identified in 57.5% of cases making it the most common histopathological diagnosis in azoospermic men. Based on our cohort, micro-TESE offers potential sperm retrieval in azoospermic men with SCOS. Successful sperm extraction in patients was associated with 50% live births and appeared to be unaffected by the presence of male/female factors. The number of live births could be higher as 20% had frozen their sperm. Concurrent female issues did not appear to affect successful outcome after micro-TESE, although numbers are small.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
The vagaries of variables: Towards a standardised approach for variable selection in spatial crime research
Authors: Groeneveld Gretha , Breetzke Gregory D
Published: April 2022

Studies using the social disorganisation theory as a framework to explain crime are commonplace globally. There are numerous inconsistencies however in the operationalisation of the theory with researchers using a plethora of different variables to represent the central tenets of the theory namely socio-economic deprivation, family disruption, residential mobility and ethnic heterogeneity. These inconsistencies bring into question the validity and reliability of the results especially when the selection of variables varies so considerably across local and international contexts. In this study we show how the use of different variables to operationalise these tenets can produce vastly different results when examining the causes of crime in the township of Khayelitsha in South Africa. We conclude by arguing for the potential standardisation of variable selection in spatial crime research using the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) global indicators as a guiding framework. We believe this is particularly pertinent if researchers are interested in undertaking cross-national comparative studies of crime.
Orbital Complications of Acute Sinusitis in Pediatric Patients: Management of Chandler III Patients
Authors: Saltagi Mohamad Z. , Rabbani Cyrus C. , Patel Kunal S. , Wannemuehler Todd J. , Chundury Rao V. , Illing Elisa A. , Ting Jonathan Y.
Published: April 2022

Background

Surgery is often avoided in the setting of pediatric orbital complications from acute sinusitis unless necessitated by alarming ophthalmological signs. Criteria for surgical intervention are not well-defined.

Objective

We aim to review our experiences, management practices and patient outcomes over a ten-year period for Chandler III patients.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed from January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2016 of patients treated for orbital symptoms secondary to acute sinusitis at a free-standing tertiary-care pediatric hospital.

Results

Of the 186 patients reviewed, 42 Chandler III patients were included. Average age was 82.6 months (SD 50.6) with a slight male predominance (M to F, 1.8 to 1). 27 patients (64.3%) underwent intervention including endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) with or without orbitotomy. Late surgical intervention (>48hrs from admission) demonstrated significant increase in overall length of stay (LOS) when compared with early surgical intervention and/or medical management (median, 6.9 vs 3.6 vs 3.7 days; p < 0.01). Postoperative LOS was also higher in the late surgery group compared with patients who had surgery within 48 hours of admission, but this did not reach statistical significance [median, 3.8 vs 2.8 days, p= 0.12]. There was no significant difference in overall abscess volume between patients who underwent intervention and those who did not (1019 mm3 vs 805 mm3, p = 0.5), but abscess width ≥ 1.2 cm was associated with higher rates of intervention. An alarming extraocular exam was the most common factor associated with surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Pediatric subperiosteal orbital abscess may prompt surgical intervention by ESS. An alarming ophthalmologic exam should prompt consideration of early intervention, which may lead to decreased overall and post-operative length of hospital stay.

Level of Evidence

4

Meeting Information

American Rhinologic Society, Fall National Meeting. Chicago, IL, USA. September 8–9, 2017.
Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy for Entrepreneurial Readiness in a Developing Context: A Survey of Exit Level Students at TVET Institutions in Nigeria
Authors: Adeniyi Adeshina Olushola , Derera Evelyn , Gamede Vangeli
Published: April 2022

Entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) has been described as the cognitive element that can stimulate entrepreneurial readiness. There is a paucity of research on whether graduates of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Nigeria are entrepreneurially ready for future work, particularly in the field of entrepreneurship. Previous studies have noted that individuals will not take entrepreneurial action until certain personality traits are triggered. This study investigated the entrepreneurial readiness of exit level students using ESE task phases at three selected TVET institutions in Nigeria. It will assist policymakers in identifying the specific cognitive traits that can stimulate entrepreneurial behavior in students. A sample of 301 exit level students was selected from a target population of 1,212 using a convenience sampling technique. Only 289 students participated in the study. The quantitative data was analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation to test the relationships among variables, and regression analysis was conducted to determine the level of influence between ESE and entrepreneurial readiness. The study found that, while other components of ESE positively impact students’ entrepreneurial readiness, ESE marshaling does not have a significant impact. While all the other pairs of ESE show significant relationships with the male students’ entrepreneurial readiness, only ESE implementing has a significant relationship with the female students’ entrepreneurial readiness. We thus conclude that the entrepreneurship education curriculum at the selected TVET institutions is not adequately addressing training in ESE marshaling skills. The implication for practice is that entrepreneurship training should focus on building economic resources skills for business start-ups.
Review of Checkpoint Inhibitor Immunotherapy in Neuroendocrine Tumor of Prostate and Our Experience in 2 Cases
Authors: Pokhrel Akriti , Nair Kiron , Jaswani Vijay , Salyana Muhammad , Mooppan Unni , Wang Jen C.
Published: April 2022

Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is a rare entity. De novo NEPC is extremely rare; other cases are usually adenocarcinoma previously treated with hormonal therapies transforming to NEPC. Most of the cases are metastatic at diagnosis and regardless of the histology types, the prognosis is poor. In this report, we reviewed the checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) immunotherapies used for neuroendocrine tumors of the prostate. Very limited data with only a few cases were published which showed a limited activity by immunotherapy; therefore, we present our experience of 2 cases: (1) adenocarcinoma with foci of NEPC and (2) adenocarcinoma transforming to NEPC after treatment with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT); both of which were initially managed with ADT, chemotherapy followed by immunotherapy with durvalumab, a programmed death ligand 1 inhibitor. In these 2 cases, CPI therapy showed limited efficacy, suggesting that neuroendocrine histology is not very responsive to CPI treatment, regardless if onset is early or late. Other therapies need to be explored for the treatment of NEPC.