bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
lnc RNA LOC102163816 Promotes Proliferation of Porcine Follicular Granulosa Cells Via miR-455-3p/PTK2B/PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Shen Caomeihui , Chen Tong , He Guitian , Liu Kening , Cao Maosheng , Yuan Chenfeng , Zhang Boqi , Chen Xue , Chen Lu , Luo Yuxin , Wang Yueying , Zhou Xu , Li Chunjin
Published: January 2024

The proliferation and differentiation of granulosa cells (GCs) is a crucial process in follicular development. However, the molecular regulatory mechanism of follicular proliferation and differentiation of GCs needs further research. Studies have reported that follicular fluid exosomes are involved in regulation of proliferation of GCs, but the specific mechanism is unclear. This study demonstrated that LOC102163816 is upregulated in porcine GCs treated with follicular fluid exosomes. Further study defined LOC102163816 to be a novel long noncoding RNA that is highly homologous to human metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) and enriched in porcine follicular fluid exosomes. We have speculated that LOC102163816 might have a cell-proliferative effect similar to that of MALAT1. We found that overexpression of LOC102163816 promoted transition from the G1 phase to the S phase of the cell cycle, thereby promoting proliferation of GCs. To explore the specific mechanism underlying this promotion of proliferation, miRNA sequencing was performed after overexpression of LOC102163816. Our results showed that LOC102163816 sponged miR-455-3p, promoting expression of protein tyrosine kinase 2 beta (PTK2B), thereby activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to regulate proliferation of porcine follicular GCs. These findings provide useful insights into follicular development.
A Novel Approach for Free, Affordable, and Sustainable Microsurgery Laboratory Training for Low- and Middle-Income Countries: University of Wisconsin-Madison Microneurosurgery Laboratory Experience
Authors: Keles Abdullah , Cancela Alberto Acitores , Moussalem Charbel K. , Kessely Yannick Canton , Malazonia Zviad , Shah Jayunkumar M. , Gurbuz Mehmet Sabri , Gasimov Turab , Adekanmbi Adefisayo , Bari Mohammad Shahnawaz , Dumot Chloe , Oriola Guillermo Garcia , Golidtum Jared Paul U. , Bin Mohd Nor Mohd Aidil , Omar Ahmed Hussein , Ozaydin Burak , Patel Nirav J. , Dempsey Robert J. , Baskaya Mustafa K.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), approximately 5 million essential neurosurgical operations per year remain unaddressed. When compared with high-income countries, one of the reasons for this disparity is the lack of microsurgery training laboratories and neurosurgeons trained in microsurgical techniques. In 2020, we founded the Madison Microneurosurgery Initiative to provide no-cost, accessible, and sustainable microsurgery training opportunities to health care professionals from LMICs in their respective countries.

METHODS:

We initially focused on enhancing our expertise in microsurgery laboratory training requirements. Subsequently, we procured a wide range of stereo microscopes, light sources, and surgical instrument sets, aiming to develop affordable, high-quality, and long-lasting microsurgery training kits. We then donated those kits to neurosurgeons across LMICs. After successfully delivering the kits to designated locations in LMICs, we have planned to initiate microsurgery laboratory training in these centers by providing a combination of live-streamed, offline, and in-person training assistance in their institutions.

RESULTS:

We established basic microsurgery laboratory training centers in 28 institutions across 18 LMICs. This was made possible through donations of 57 microsurgery training kits, including 57 stereo microscopes, 2 surgical microscopes, and several advanced surgical instrument sets. Thereafter, we organized 10 live-streamed microanastomosis training sessions in 4 countries: Lebanon, Paraguay, Türkiye, and Bangladesh. Along with distributing the recordings from our live-streamed training sessions with these centers, we also granted them access to our microsurgery training resource library. We thus equipped these institutions with the necessary resources to enable continued learning and hands-on training. Moreover, we organized 7 in-person no-cost hands-on microanastomosis courses in different institutions across Türkiye, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Paraguay. A total of 113 surgical specialists successfully completed these courses.

CONCLUSION:

Our novel approach of providing microsurgery training kits in combination with live-streamed, offline, and in-person training assistance enables sustainable microsurgery laboratory training in LMICs.
Admitting Hospital Influences on Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Treatment Decision for Patients With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Malhotra Armaan K , Shakil Husain , Smith Christopher W. , Mathieu Francois , Merali Zamir , Jaffe Rachael H. , Harrington Erin M. , He Yingshi , Wijeysundera Duminda N. , Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Ladha Karim , Wilson Jefferson R. , Nathens Avery B. , Witiw Christopher D.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment (WLST) in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is complex, with a paucity of standardized guidelines. We aimed to assess the variability in WLST practices between trauma centers in North America.

METHODS:

This retrospective study used data from trauma centers through the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program between 2017 and 2020. We included adult patients (>16 years) with severe TBI and a documented decision for WLST. We constructed a series of hierarchical logistic regression models to adjust for patient, injury, and hospital attributes influencing WLST; residual between-center variability was characterized using the median odds ratio. The impact of disparate WLST practices was further assessed by ranking centers by their conditional random intercept and assessing mortality, length of stay, and WLST between quartiles.

RESULTS:

We identified a total of 85 511 subjects with severe TBI treated across 510 trauma centers, of whom 20 300 (24%) had WLST. Patient-level factors associated with increased likelihood of WLST were advanced age, White race, self-pay, or Medicare insurance status (compared with private insurance). Black race was associated with reduced tendency for WLST. Treatment in nonprofit centers and higher-severity intracranial and extracranial injuries, midline shift, and pupil asymmetry also increased the likelihood for WLST. After adjustment for patient and hospital attributes, the median odds ratio was 1.45 (1.41-1.49 95% CI), suggesting residual variation in WLST between centers. When centers were grouped into quartiles by their propensity for WLST, there was increased adjusted mortality and shorter length of stay in fourth compared with first quartile centers.

CONCLUSION:

We highlighted the presence of contextual phenomena associated with disparate WLST practice patterns between trauma centers after adjustment for case-mix and hospital attributes. These findings highlight a need for standardized WLST guidelines to improve equity of care provision for patients with severe TBI.
Clinical and Pathological Features of Pit1/SF1 Multilineage Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Wang Xingchao , Tang Hanlu , Bie Zhixu , Wang Ying , Yuan Ruofei , Zhang Zhe , Xiong Zhixia , Yang Zhijun , Bi Zhiyong , Wang Bo , Liu Pinan
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Lineage-based classification has critical clinical implications in pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET). As the most prevalent subtype of multilineage PitNET, PitNET originating from both pituitary-specific positive transcription factor 1 (Pit1) and steroidogenic factor-1 (SF1) lineages (Pit1/SF1-adenoma) is expected to exhibit rich and varied clinical behaviors. A comprehensive understanding of the clinical and pathological characteristics of Pit1/SF1-adenoma will provide mechanistic insight and influence the prognosis and treatment of PitNET.

METHODS:

A retrospective study was conducted by reviewing 57 cases of Pit1/SF1-adenoma between 2018 and 2022. We also included 88 cases of PitNET arising from Pit1 cell lineage (Pit1-adenoma) and 70 cases of PitNET arising from SF1 cell lineage (SF1-adenoma) as controls. Comprehensive data, including demographic, symptom, endocrinal, radiological, surgical, pathological, and prognostic information, were systematically collected. All specimens were immunostained for pituitary transcription factors (PTFs) and pituitary hormones.

RESULTS:

The detection rate was 8.0% for Pit1/SF1-adenoma within PitNET surgical specimens. Pit1/SF1-adenoma displayed a male predominance, with the mean diagnosis age falling between Pit1-adenoma and SF1-adenoma. The endocrine activity of Pit1/SF1-adenoma was lower than Pit1-adenoma but higher than SF1-adenoma. Pit1/SF1-adenoma had a higher incidence of cavernous sinus invasion (56.1%) than both Pit1-adenoma (38.6%, P = .039) and SF1-adenoma (27.1%, P = .001). Furthermore, Pit1/SF1-adenoma showed more postoperative complications than Pit1-adenoma (29.8% vs 8.0%, P = .001). Nonfunctional Pit1/SF1-adenoma had a higher radiological tumor recurrence rate than nonfunctional SF1-adenoma (34.8% vs 10.9%, P = .021). Notably, the immunostaining pattern was diverse in Pit1/SF1-adenoma, with various combinations of staining intensity for PTFs and 15 combinations for 6 pituitary hormones. Intriguingly, various PTFs combinations had no different impact on the outcome of Pit1/SF1-adenoma.

CONCLUSION:

Pit1/SF1-adenoma represents a unique pathological subtype of PitNET, characterized by distinctive clinical behaviors. Identifying Pit1/SF1-adenoma can facilitate more precise management of PitNET by the practical use of Pit1/SF1 immunostaining.
Tailored Intraoperative MRI Strategies in High-Grade Glioma Surgery: A Machine Learning–Based Radiomics Model Highlights Selective Benefits
Authors: Aichholzer Martin , Rauch Philip , Kastler Lucia , Pichler Josef , Aufschnaiter-Hiessböck Kathrin , Ruiz-Navarro Francisco , Aspalter Stefan , Hartl Saskia , Schimetta Wolfgang , Böhm Petra , Manakov Ilja , Thomae Wolfgang , Gmeiner Matthias , Gruber Andreas , Stefanits Harald
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

In high-grade glioma (HGG) surgery, intraoperative MRI (iMRI) has traditionally been the gold standard for maximizing tumor resection and improving patient outcomes. However, recent Level 1 evidence juxtaposes the efficacy of iMRI and 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), questioning the continued justification of iMRI because of its associated costs and extended surgical duration. Nonetheless, drawing from our clinical observations, we postulated that a subset of intricate HGGs may continue to benefit from the adjunctive application of iMRI.

METHODS:

In a prospective study of 73 patients with HGG, 5-ALA was the primary technique for tumor delineation, complemented by iMRI to detect residual contrast-enhanced regions. Suboptimal 5-ALA efficacy was defined when (1) iMRI detected contrast-enhanced remnants despite 5-ALA's indication of a gross total resection or (2) surgeons observed residual fluorescence, contrary to iMRI findings. Radiomic features from preoperative MRIs were extracted using a U2-Net deep learning algorithm. Binary logistic regression was then used to predict compromised 5-ALA performance.

RESULTS:

Resections guided solely by 5-ALA achieved an average removal of 93.14% of contrast-enhancing tumors. This efficacy increased to 97% with iMRI integration, albeit not statistically significant. Notably, for tumors with suboptimal 5-ALA performance, iMRI's inclusion significantly improved resection outcomes (P-value: .00013). The developed deep learning–based model accurately pinpointed these scenarios, and when enriched with radiomic parameters, showcased high predictive accuracy, as indicated by a Nagelkerke R2 of 0.565 and a receiver operating characteristic of 0.901.

CONCLUSION:

Our machine learning–driven radiomics approach predicts scenarios where 5-ALA alone may be suboptimal in HGG surgery compared with its combined use with iMRI. Although 5-ALA typically yields favorable results, our analyses reveal that HGGs characterized by significant volume, complex morphology, and left-sided location compromise the effectiveness of resections relying exclusively on 5-ALA. For these intricate cases, we advocate for the continued relevance of iMRI.
Preoperative Ultrasound-Guided Localization of the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve: From Guide Wire to Novel Clip
Authors: Koueik Joyce , Bethel Jacob A. , Lee Kenneth S. , Tuite Michael J. , Hanna Amgad S.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) decompression and transposition are surgical treatment options for meralgia paresthetica. Identifying the LFCN during surgery may be challenging, and preoperative localization is a valuable adjunct in this case. The objective of this study was to explore a new technique using preoperative ultrasound-guided clip localization (USCL) of the LFCN.

METHODS:

After Institutional Review Board approval, data were collected on patients who underwent both preoperative ultrasound-guided wire localization (USWL) and USCL over the past 13 years. Skin-to-nerve time was calculated prospectively.

RESULTS:

Fifty-six patients were identified, 51 had USWL and 5 had USCL; the skin-to-nerve median time was 7.5 and 6 minutes, respectively. Six wires were misplaced, and this was at the beginning of utilization of the USWL technique. There were no nerve injury, infection, or bleeding complications related to either wire or clip placement.

CONCLUSION:

USWL or USCL is safe and time-efficient in LFCN surgeries.
Exit Dilemma: The Role of Private Learning on Firm Survival
Authors: Cetemen Doruk , Margaria Chiara
Published: January 2024

We study the exit of duopolists from a stochastically declining market. Firms privately learn about the market conditions from observing the stochastic arrival of customers, while exit decisions are publicly observed. A larger firm is more likely to have customers and hence has better information about the market conditions. We provide sufficient conditions for either the smaller or the larger firm to be the first to exit in the unique equilibrium. Because of observational learning, exiting may be a firm's dominant action since continuing operation would bring too optimistic news to the rival, leading it to further postpone its exit. (JEL D21, D43, D83, L21, L25)
A Random Reference Model
Authors: Kibris Özgür , Masatlioglu Yusufcan , Suleymanov Elchin
Published: January 2024

We provide two nested models of random reference-dependent choice in which the reference point is endogenously determined by random processes. Random choice behavior is due to random reference points, even though, from the decision-maker’s viewpoint, choices are deterministic. Through a revealed preference exercise, we establish when and how one can identify the reference-dependent preferences and the random reference rule from observed choice data. We also present behavioral postulates that characterize the empirical content of our models. Lastly, we investigate an application of our model to Bertrand competition with differentiated products. (JEL D11, D91)
Dynamic chemical transformations of trace elements in the sediment - water interface, the case of Saronikos Gulf
Authors: Πρίφτη Ελένη
Published: January 2024

Ο Σαρωνικός Κόλπος αντιμετωπίζει σημαντικό περιβαλλοντικό πρόβλημα λόγω της ανθρωπογενούς πίεσης από διάφορες δραστηριότητες, όπως η αστική επέκταση, οι βιομηχανικές δραστηριότητες και ο τουρισμός. Ένα από τα σημαντικότερα περιβαλλοντικά προβλήματα της περιοχής είναι η ρύπανση από βαρέα μέταλλα, η οποία επικρατεί εδώ και δεκαετίες. Οι πυρήνες ιζήματος έχουν χρησιμοποιηθεί ως σημαντικό εργαλείο για τη διερεύνηση της ρύπανσης από βαρέα μέταλλα, καθώς μπορούν να παρέχουν πολύτιμες πληροφορίες σχετικά με το ιστορικό και την εξέλιξη της ρύπανσης στην πάροδο του χρόνου. Στην παρούσα μελέτη, η συγγραφέας εξέτασε τη διαχρονική εξέλιξη, τη χημική σύσταση και τη δυναμική μεταξύ ιζήματος και υδάτινης στήλης των μετάλλων σε πυρήνες ιζημάτων από τον Σαρωνικό Κόλπο, με έμφαση σε αναδυόμενους ρύπους όπως το V, ο Ag και οι Σπάνιες Γαίες (REEs).Τα αποτελέσματα της μελέτης αποκάλυψαν εκτεταμένη ρύπανση των ιζημάτων στον ανατολικό και δυτικό κόλπο της Ελευσίνας από Ni, Cr, Cu, Zn, As, Mo, Cd και Pb από τη δεκαετία του 1910 και τη δεκαετία του 1960, αντίστοιχα. Επιπλέον, αποκαλύφθηκε ένας αξιοσημείωτος εμπλουτισμός σε REEs στον ανατολικό κόλπο της Ελευσίνας από τα τέλη της δεκαετίας του 1990. Η μελέτη διαπίστωσε επίσης σημαντική μείωση του εμπλουτισμού των ιζημάτων σε διάφορα μέταλλα από το 2000 στον Εσωτερικό Σαρωνικό Κόλπο, ο οποίος επηρεάζεται κυρίως από το Κέντρο Επεξεργασίας Λυμάτων της Αθήνας. Ωστόσο, παρά τη μείωση αυτή, η αξιολόγηση της τοξικότητας με βάση την περιεκτικότητα των επιφανειακών ιζημάτων σε μέταλλα έδειξε ότι τα περισσότερα από τα ιχνοστοιχεία που μελετήθηκαν εξακολουθούν να αποτελούν μέτριο έως υψηλό κίνδυνο τοξικότητας για τα βενθικά οικοσυστήματα. Επιπλέον, η μελέτη της δυναμικής ιζήματος – νερού αποκάλυψε ότι τα ιζήματα έχουν αυξημένη πιθανότητα να λειτουργήσουν ως πηγή μετάλλων για τη στήλη του νερού, επιβεβαιώνοντας περαιτέρω τον υψηλό οικολογικό κίνδυνο αυτών των ιζημάτων. Συμπερασματικά, η συγγραφέας της μελέτης προτείνει ότι η ρύπανση από μέταλλα στον Σαρωνικό Κόλπο παραμένει ένα σημαντικό οικολογικό πρόβλημα και ότι απαιτείται επειγόντως εστιασμένη έρευνα για τους αναδυόμενους ρύπους, ιδιαίτερα για τον Ag στον Εσωτερικό Σαρωνικό Κόλπο.
The benefit of tissue sealant on urethroplasty in hypospadias patients – A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Siregar Safendra , Steven Steven , Mustafa Akhmad
Published: January 2024

Background Hypospadias was ranked second after undescended testis as the most prevalent congenital abnormality in newborn males. Hypospadias can be successfully repaired through multiple surgeries in the majority of children. Postoperative complications were not rarely seen after surgeries, such as urethrocutaneous fistula (UCF), meatal stenosis, and glans breakdown. Tissue sealant application in hypospadias repair serves as additional suture line coverage and reduces the post surgery complications. However, the effects of sealants usage during urethroplasty are still uncertain. This review aimed to know the effects of tissue sealant usage on patients with hypospadias who undergo urethroplasty. Methods The study was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Literature was searched on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus following PRISMA guidelines. The search was conducted on October 12th, 2021, using the search term (“glue” OR “sealants” OR “tissue glue” OR “tissue sealant” OR “tissue adhesive”) AND (“hypospadias” OR “urethrocutaneous fistula” OR “urethral repair” OR “urethroplasty” OR “hypospadiology”). Result Systematic searching from all databases resulted in 160 potential articles. After a full-text review, eight articles were included in this study. Urethrocytaneous fistula complication was reported in all studies. The occurrence of complication reported by all studies was urethrocutaneous fistula. Several studies also reported tissue edema and flap-related complications. Tissue sealant had no significant effect in reducing meatal stenosis. Conclusions This systematic review revealed additional benefits from several types of tissue sealant in hypospadias repair surgery. Fibrin sealant application over the urethroplasty suture line in hypospadias repair offers a water-proof coverage and may enhance the outcome from the surgery.
COVID-19 infection with serial bilateral pneumothoraces
Authors: Ragozzino Rosa , Risoli Antonella , Martone Anna Maria , Brandi Vincenzo , Liperoti Rosa , Landi Francesco
Published: January 2024

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is most frequently associated with a mild presentation of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Typical radiographic findings in severe                 COVID-19 infection are bilateral ground-glass opacities on computed tomography (CT) scans. Bilateral pneumothorax is a rare complication of COVID-19. Among observational studies, the incidence of pneumothorax is low at 0.3% in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. However, the incidence of pneumothorax increases to 12.8-23.8% in patients requiring invasive mechanical ventilation.
Case: This case report describes a previously healthy 52-year-old man who had recurrent pneumothoraces. He had five separate episodes of bilateral pneumothoraces during a two-month infection with SARS-CoV-2 during which he required mechanical ventilation. Chest x-rays revealed pneumothoraces, and bilateral chest tubes were inserted into the intrathoracic      space for drainage five times. This case highlights the potential atypical clinical course in a COVID-19 infection and is the first reported case, to our knowledge, that features five bilateral spontaneous recurring pneumothoraces.
Conclusion: COVID-19-related pneumothorax is likely a sequela of COVID-19 disease progression due to the inflammatory insult from COVID-19 infection and the increased respiratory effort needed to maintain gas exchange. COVID-19- related pneumothoraces are associated with mechanical ventilation and resolved in prolonged hospitalization. The treatment of COVID-19 and its long-term consequences represents a relatively new challenge for clinicians and health care providers. A multidisciplinary approach during the posthospitalization management of COVID-19 survivors is strongly advised.
 
Keywords: SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-19 lung complications, pneumothorax
W stronę metafizyki Leszka Kołakowskiego
Authors: Biegalska Agnieszka , Stachewicz Krzysztof
Published: January 2024

Leszek Kołakowski był jednym z tych polskich filozofów, który wytrwale i z pasją oddawał się myśleniu metafizycznemu przez całe swoje życie. Niezaprzeczalną jego zasługą jest, na co zwraca uwagę Barbara Skarga, że jak mało kto dokonał „głębokiej destrukcji metafizyki, obnażając wszystkie jej nieuprawnione uroszczenia” (B. Skarga, Sceptycyzm metafizyką podszyty, „Tygodnik Powszechny” 43/2002.). Ostateczne stanowisko Kołakowskiego w kwestii metafizyki jest trudne do rekonstrukcji. Po pierwsze, reprezentuje on „niekonsekwentny sceptycyzm”, który nie jest metodą badawczą prowadzącą do jednoznacznych konkluzji. Po wtóre, znaczącą trudność odnajdujemy w jego sposobie pisania – eseistyce. Jednak czytelnik pism Kołakowskiego dostrzeże, że zawsze kierowała nim uczciwość intelektualna, a rozległość prowadzonych przez niego analiz i zachwyca i wydobywa interesujące implikacje. Tak też jest w przypadku jego refleksji na temat metafizyki. W niniejszym artykule podjęta zostanie próba prześledzenia dróg namysłu o charakterze metafizycznym Leszka Kołakowskiego ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem tez zawartych w jego dwóch pracach: Horror metaphysicus i Obecność mitu.
Dziennik Janki Goldstein – zagadnienia i kierunki badawcze
Authors: Wencel Anna
Published: January 2024

In 2017, the Galicia Jewish Museum received a thick notebook in black cover, tightly written in small but very legible handwriting. It was brought by Mrs. Ewa Czekaj. She explained that it was the diary of Janina Goldstein, the daughter of Julian Goldstein, who ran the Artistic and Locksmith Workshop in Krakow at Dajwor Street, where the museum rooms and offices are located today. Ewa Czekaj's grandparents, Alicja and Andrzej Łach, knew the Goldstein family: Julian, his wife Sara and three children – Róża, Janina and Stefan. Andrzej Łach worked for Julian Goldstein. Mrs. Ewa Czekaj wanted Janka's diary to be published, and so in the autumn of 2018, Janka Goldstein's Diary was published in a small edition by the Galicia Jewish Museum with the support of the City of Krakow.
Źródła i opracowania do genealogii galicyjskich emigrantów w Księstwie Cieszyńskim
Authors: Morys-Twarowski Michael
Published: January 2024

The article discusses the issues of genealogical research in the area of the former Duchy of Cieszyn, part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, directly adjacent to the area of Galicia. It is also an extensive answer to the questions of where and what sources and publications should be used if we want to complete the lineage of the Galician family about the representatives of the Cieszyn line (“Cieszyn” in the sense inhabiting the Duchy of Cieszyn, not only Cieszyn itself ). A large part of immigrants in Cieszyn in the 19th century were newcomers from Galicia.
Improving South Korea’s Crystal Ball for Baseball Postseason Clinching and Elimination
Authors: Kim Sam Sung Ho , Husted Mark A. , Olinick Eli V. , Newman Alexandra M.
Published: January 2024

We develop mathematical programming models to calculate enhanced “magic numbers” for determining playoff elimination and clinches in the Korean Baseball Organization. These magic numbers are disseminated on a website for fans seeking accurate updates on their team’s postseason prospects. The website has received attention from Korean sports writers and fans alike.
Das páginas às telas – Ensaio sobre a cegueira: o romance de José Saramago para o cinema
Authors: Malta Francisco Carlos
Published: January 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo investigar as diversas estruturas narrativas utilizadas no processo de desenvolvimento de um roteiro cinematográfico, especialmente quando se trata da adaptação de uma obra literária do ponto de vista da protagonista feminina. Para tal análise, será utilizado como corpus o romance Ensaio sobre a cegueira (1995), de José Saramago, adaptado pelo roteirista Don McKellar e dirigido por Fernando Meirelles em filme lançado em 2008. A finalidade deste estudo é apresentar o processo de construção narrativa no contexto audiovisual, tendo como base a obra literária. Para isso, serão utilizados conceitos de especialistas em roteiros cinematográficos, tais como Linda Hutcheon (2010), Robert McKee (2006) e Christopher Vogler (2006). A criação do roteiro será dividida em quatro categorias: narrativa, estrutura e ensaio sobre imagens.
PRINCÍPIOS TEÓRICOS DA LITERATURA ESCREVIVENTE
Authors: Fanuel Xavier Rodrigues Felipe
Published: January 2024

O presente artigo propõe uma avaliação crítica das articulações teóricas emergentes na literatura afro-brasileira, com ênfase na perspectiva seminal que caracteriza a originalidade intelectual de Conceição Evaristo. A partir de uma leitura genealógica do conceito de escrita comprometida com a vida, são exploradas as implicações teóricas das produções literárias de mulheres negras. Em seus desdobramentos, como revela a análise da contribuição teórica de Lívia Natália para o entendimento da intelectualidade escrevivente, o conceito de escrevivência institui os fundamentos para se pensar os princípios teóricos de uma literatura marcada pela intersecção entre a arte escrita e as facetas variadas inerentes à experiência de ser negro no Brasil.
Exploring the Integration of the Happy School Model in Vietnamese Higher Education: Insights and Implications from the Perspectives of Tertiary EFL Teachers
Authors: Thi Nguyen Anh , Thao Le Thanh , Yen Phuong Hoang , Thuy Pham Trut , Thu Huynh Thi Anh , Tra Nguyen Huong
Published: January 2024

This qualitative study explored the possibility of implementing the happy school model (HSM) in the context of Vietnamese higher education, with a focus on the socio-cultural perspectives of nine tertiary English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers at different career stages. Through semi-structured interviews, thematic analysis, and theoretical underpinning by constructivist paradigm and humanistic education theory, the study illuminated multifaceted insights. Key themes emerged, including aligning the HSM with holistic student development, recognizing challenges and potential benefits, balancing traditional Confucian values, and adapting the model to Vietnam’s unique socio-cultural and economic landscape. The findings provide valuable guidance for educational innovation in Vietnam, highlighting complexities of aligning a new educational paradigm with existing practices and cultural norms. While the study’s focus on a specific cultural context and limited participant pool presents certain limitations, the insights offer rich contributions to the broader global dialogue on education and human development. Future research directions and practical implications are also discussed, making this study a valuable resource for educators, policymakers, and researchers interested in the intersection of universal educational principles and specific cultural contexts like Vietnam.
Bibliometric Analysis of Environmental Literacy in Sustainable Development: A Comprehensive Review Based on Scopus Data From 2013 to 2023
Authors: Ariyatun Ariyatun , Sudarmin Sudarmin , Wardani Sri , Saptono Sigit , Winarto Winarto
Published: January 2024

The review article presents an analysis of the literature on environmental literacy in sustainable development. By utilizing techniques to examine multiple documents published between 2013 and 2023, including citation analysis, co-authorship analysis, subject area analysis, and keyword analysis, this study aims to provide valuable information and insights into the research landscape surrounding environmental literacy and its contribution to promoting sustainable development. A systematic search was conducted to gather several scientific articles, conference papers, and publications from the Scopus database from 2013 to 2023. The findings of this analysis shed light on authors, influential institutions, and active research groups that contributed to the study of environmental literacy and sustainable development. This comprehensive review offers an understanding of the state of research in this field while identifying areas for further exploration and research gaps. The insights gained from this study can be highly beneficial for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to advance knowledge and take action toward promoting literacy's role in sustainable development. This analysis is a foundation for advancing our understanding of literacy's significance while emphasizing its vital role in sustainable development efforts.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Alterations Choice for Aquatic Organism Anatomy and Morphology Analysis: A Case Study of A Giant River Prawn (Macrobrachium Rosenbergii)
Authors:   Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Surin Campus, Surin 32000 Thailand, Thanomsit Chutima , Saowakoon Samnao ,   Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Surin Campus, Surin 32000 Thailand, Prasatkaew Witchuda ,   Department of Environmental Management, Faculty of Science and Technology, Dhonburi Rajabhat University Samutprakan, Samutprakan 10540, Thailand, Ruttanakorn Sawipa ,   Department of Fisheries Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Kalasin University, Kalasin 46000, Thailand, Nanuam Jakkaphun ,   Office of Educational Affairs, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chonburi, 20131, Thailand, Kangpanich Chanpim ,   Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan Ok, Chonburi 20110, Thailand, Sreeputhorn Kosit ,   Fishery programme Faculty of Natural Resources Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Sakonnakhon Campus, Sakon Nakhon 47160, Thailand, Meemon Panomsak ,   School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand,   Center of Excellent in Advanced Functional Material, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30000, Thailand
Published: January 2024

In this study, a Frequency Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (FD-OCT) system was utilized for non-invasive imaging of the giant river prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) to analyze its anatomy and physiology. Seven tissue parts were examined: both stalked eyes (compound eyes), both sides of the carapace, the middle and lower ventral abdominal segments, and the uropod. The results indicated that FD-OCT was effective in detecting all the tissues studied. The deepest area detected was the eyestalks, with a range of approximately 930-1000 μm, while the shallowest detected areas were the ventral and dorsal segments, ranging from approximately 0-100 μm to 300-500 μm. This variance in detection range may be attributed to the dense exoskeleton and muscle bundles, which result in lower penetration in the ventral and dorsal segments compared to the eyestalks. Overall, this study demonstrated that FD-OCT can provide valuable insights into the tissue structure of giant river prawns and other crustaceans, offering significant benefits for further anatomical and physiological research.
Introduction: Problematising the dilemmas of UK airport expansion – puzzles and research strategies
Authors: Griggs Steven , Howarth David
Published: January 2024

This chapter outlines the core arguments and contributions of the book. It first demonstrates how aviation and its attendant infrastructure needs is a paradigmatic issue of our time – an intractable policy controversy, which highlights a number of economic, political and symbolic contradictions of contemporary societies. Secondly, the chapter traces out the strategies of successive UK governments to devise and implement their desired plans to expand airport capacity in South East England since the 1940s. It contextualises the core arguments of the book by focusing on the increasing politicisation of airport expansion and the failed efforts of government to depoliticise aviation policy, secure a policy consensus and execute its plans. In so doing, it presents seven critical problematisations of airports policy in different historical conjunctures, arguing that the technologies and techniques deployed by government to implement the logic of ‘predict and provide’ in aviation only served to politicise the expansions and infrastructure projects, which were proposed or decided upon. Finally, the chapter sets out the theoretical and methodological approach that is used – poststructuralist discourse theory and genealogical inquiry – before presenting the organisation of the book and how its arguments unfold.
Repoliticising aviation policy: law, planning and persistent activism
Authors: Griggs Steven , Howarth David
Published: January 2024

This chapter analyses the complex and messy dynamics of politicisation, depoliticisation and repoliticisation, which punctuated the aftermath of the AC in 2015, as rival discourse coalitions competed for policy hegemony. In the post-Brexit context, it argues that successive Conservative governments struggled to perpetuate the dominant social logic of ‘predict and provide’, as they sought to deliver airport expansion in the face of sustained political opposition by depoliticising aviation’s contribution to climate change, air pollution and noise. Importantly, it analyses how the opponents of expansion exploited and re-politicised the novel arenas and technologies, which were designed and developed by government to remove the issue of aviation expansion from the political domain. Here we explore how the February 2020 ruling of the Court of Appeal, and the successful legal challenge to the third runway, transformed the 2008 Planning Act and Climate Change Act and the 2015 Paris agreement into ‘counter-technologies’, effectively redefining the courts as a sphere of resistance in which campaigners could challenge government and open-up new spaces for citizen protest and political resistance. It concludes by exposing the messy dialectics of politicisation and depoliticisation in this case, while underlining the role of strategic agency in seizing such opportunities.
Escaping ageism
Authors: Repetti Marion , Calasanti Toni
Published: January 2024

This chapter uses fieldwork data to discuss retirement migration in relation to the social precarity that can result from age-based discrimination. We show how the ageism in our interviewees’ home countries led them to feel excluded or to anticipate this, and how they found that they were valued in their new countries, rather than burdens. Avoiding ageism and social exclusion was not their primary motivation for migrating, but finding that they were not marginalised in their new countries based on their age emerged as an important aspect of their happiness. Further, the apparent absence of ageism mattered regardless of our respondents’ class. We begin the chapter with our respondents’ accounts of being considered burdens in their home countries, which they contrast to their perception of being valued as contributors in their host countries. We highlight the experiences of older women, who feel more visible and safer than they had felt at home. Then, we discuss the advantages retirement migrants have found in residing among age peers. We discuss the internalised ageism that many respondents demonstrate, which we take to suggest that their avoidance of social precarity is, at best, incomplete.
Exploring Digital Technology in Education
Authors: Hammond Michael
Published: January 2024

This book is about theorising technology and education and how we can theorise better. It is organised around seven chapters. The book begins by tying the idea of theory to that of providing an explanation. However, explanations come in different shapes and sizes and theoretical explanations draw on subject knowledge – of course subject knowledge of technology in education, but also of education and social research in general. Theory is an outcome of theorising and Chapter 2 looks at the move from descriptive to more explanatory reporting when theorising. Chapters 3, 4 and 5 look at theories in the context of learning theory, technology take-up and technology itself. Well-established learning theories are covered in Chapter 3 but so are newer social theories of learning, and examples of distributed learning specific to technology mediation. Theories concerning technology acceptance and general take-up are next explored. In different ways they are addressing the question ‘Why does the take up of digital tools seem to be under-used when so much has been claimed for them?’. In Chapter 5, the theorisation of technology itself is covered. Here a persistent technocentric tradition is identified and alternatives to that tradition are offered. Chapter 6 shifts tone by looking at wider narratives about technology itself. There is both excessive optimism and pessimism about the impact of technology and these polarising positions are getting in the way of a more balanced approach to theorising. Chapter 7 looks back at the key arguments made in the book and it is suggested that we need a research community which values different kinds of theoretical contribution, while maintaining a distinctive focus on education. Theory need not be so mystifying a concept if we think about it in broad and inclusive ways.
COVID-19 and Community Sanctions
Authors: Ainslie Sam , Fowler Andrew , Phillips Jake , Westaby Chalen
Published: January 2024

This chapter explores the ways probation providers in England and Wales adapted to the coronavirus pandemic and considers what this meant for providers, probation staff and people on probation. It draws on research evidence and policy to consider how the pandemic shaped the way the service met official aims and objectives, and the impact on people under probation supervision and staff. As with many of the changes that occurred during the pandemic, both positive developments and tensions (some previously hidden) were exposed in ways that starkly illustrate the pressures service users and staff have been facing for many years. The chapter concludes, therefore, with some reflections on how probation providers can take some positives from the pandemic and the exceptional delivery model and consider any implications for the future.
Creating an Ecosocial Welfare Future
Authors: Murphy Mary P.
Published: January 2024

The book integrates ecological and social arguments in identifying the problems and solutions to issues of contemporary sustainability. Intentionally light in its presentation of theory, key concepts discussed include commodification, globalisation, sustainability, institutions, services, income, participation, imaginaries, transformation, and power. The book focuses on the problem; the cojoined realities of increasing inequality and environmental destruction, and part of the solution; a recast welfare system as an ecosocial welfare system capable of enabling society to meet the challenges of achieving sustainability and equality. Ecosocial welfare reflects the transformational potential of social policy. It is mapped, in this book, as specific reform proposals combining enabling institutions, universal basic services and income support (Participation Income). The intention is to enable different outcomes for work, income, time and care, and facilitate socially useful work and flourishing lives.
Containing the radicals and regulating the ‘other’: a history of the strange case of social work
Authors: Parker Jonathan
Published: January 2024

Chapter 9 examines the features of formalised welfare shown through the development of social work as an accepted function of capitalist societies but also as a potential irritant to the status quo. The history of the personal social services, of which social work is key, sports diverse beginnings within Britain’s turbulent socio-political systems. Social work remains part of the social and regulatory functions of society, soft policing, but it also champions radical political and community change and places an increasing emphasis on human relations and sustainability. Its ambivalent status in formal social welfare systems, and in the minds of political power and the general public, underpins the arguments of this chapter.
W(h)ither welfare after Brexit and COVID-19?
Authors: Parker Jonathan
Published: January 2024

The concluding chapter debates where welfare might go if, indeed, it survives as a formal citizen entitlement in post-Brexit Britain, following the global COVID-19 pandemic and the rippling effects of the war in Ukraine. Rather than suggest likely ways for the development of welfare which is notoriously problematic, the final chapter considers a variety of possible futures and draws upon Merton’s theory of unintended consequences and Urry’s anticipation of multiple futures. The chapter concludes the book by bringing together the debates developed throughout. The question of whether or not we want a state welfare system, a marketised, individual responsibility system, a ‘Third Way’, an anarchic system of compassion or something else is posed. These questions draw on psychosocial understandings of the regulatory selves we are and the compassionate selves we may be, and how these are developed and reinforced by the underpinning discourses and mindsets that social welfare practices and experiences.
Introduction: risk as a key feature of late modern societies
Authors: Alaszewski Andy
Published: January 2024

All societies need to manage the uncertainties of the future and account for the misfortunes of the past. In pre-modern societies, religious and supernatural beliefs provided the basis for prediction of the future and allocation of blame for misfortunes. In modern high-income countries with developed health-care systems, such beliefs have been (partially) replaced by the use of rationality, especially risk, making it possible for human actions to be based on reason and evidence. In the late 20th century, social scientists have developed more critical awareness of the ways in which risk is embedded in key social processes and influences social relations and interactions. This more critical approach is evident in Beck and Giddens’s analyses of the key features of late modern societies or the so-called Risk Society; it is also an important element in Douglas’s cultural theory and forms part of Foucault’s analysis of power or governmentality in modern societies. The COVID-19 pandemic is an opportunity for us to examine the ways in which policy makers use risk to make sense of and manage the uncertainties created by the new virus and to reflect on the ways in which gauging risk provides insights into the development of contemporary societies.
The risks of COVID-19: probability, categorisation and outcomes
Authors: Alaszewski Andy
Published: January 2024

One way of thinking about risk is in terms of the probability of one or more outcomes. Probability provides a way of using knowledge derived from the observation of past events to predict the likelihood of similar outcomes in the future. There is a strong technical and objective reality to probability: it is often expressed numerically. In contrast, outcomes are more subjective and relate to personal and collective values. When choices are made on behalf of others and the outcomes affect different social groups, the choices made are shaped by the collective values attributed to different outcomes and different social groups. In high-income countries, policy makers were unwilling to explicitly identify and own the value systems that underpinned decisions related to the allocation of limited resources during the pandemic. The use of risk as an apparently technical neutral concept effectively masked and concealed implicit value decisions. Policy makers were willing to accept, without public debate or ethical scrutiny, expert advice about the allocation of resources, such as the categorisation of at-risk groups and priorities for COVID-19 vaccinations.
Contesting risk: conspiracy theories
Authors: Alaszewski Andy
Published: January 2024

The development of different forms of media enables individuals to access a range of competing sources of information. Individuals have to decide which sources they trust. Social media can provide forums within which ‘networked publics’ can interact. While such forums can be open, interactive and egalitarian, they can also be dominated by individuals who accumulate a substantial following, so-called influencers. When such influencers are politicians, social media take on some of the characteristics of a social movement in which a charismatic leader communicates with his or her followers. In the US, Donald Trump used social media, especially Twitter, to create and connect with his supporters. Conspiracy theorists take some of the reasonable doubts about contemporary science and technology, extend them and weave them into theories that deny the benevolent motives of governments and experts or express the view that conventional therapies such as vaccination are harmful, for example. In seeking to refute conspiracy theories, government agencies seldom address the reasonable doubts raised about science and technology. During the pandemic, social media facilitated the spread of conspiracy theories. Individuals were cut off from their normal social networks and sources of reality, and as many experienced increased anxiety and uncertainty, pursuing conspiracies could be a satisfying pastime.
Improving public policy and administration: exploring the potential of design
Authors: van Buuren Arwin , Lewis Jenny M. , Peters B. Guy , Voorberg William
Published: January 2024

In recent years, design approaches to policy-making have gained popularity among policy-makers. However, a critical reflection on their added value and on how contemporary ‘design-thinking’ approaches relates to the classical idea of public administration as a design science is still lacking. This introductory chapter reflects upon the use of design approaches in public administration. We delve into the more traditional ideas of design, as launched by Simon, and policy design, but also into the present-day design wave, stemming from traditional design sciences. Based upon this we distinguish between three ideal-type approaches of design currently characterizing the discipline: design as optimization; design as exploration; and design as co-creation. More rigorous empirical analyses of applications of these approaches is necessary to further develop public administration as a design science. We reflect upon the question how a more designerly way of thinking can help to improve public administration and public policy.