bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of moral explanations and structural inequalities in experiences of mental illness stigma in Northern Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Guimarães Patrícia Neves , Pedersen Duncan
Published: December 2021

The process of stigmatization within different cultural contexts has long been viewed as essential in understanding the course and outcomes of mental illness. However, little research has examined which cultural constructs and categories are used to explain mental illness, and how they contribute to the way people with mental illness experience stigma and social exclusion, as well as how these beliefs affect healthcare practices. This study examines meanings ascribed to mental illness and experiences of stigma among four groups in urban settings of Minas Gerais, Brazil: persons with mental illness; their families; members of the lay public; and health professionals working at an alternative community-based psychosocial treatment service or a local university hospital. Qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and participant observation, were conducted with a purposive sample of 72 participants. Data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings suggest that stigma and discrimination are intrinsically rooted in a systemic process of social exclusion generated by meanings ascribed to mental illness and the structural vulnerabilities of the mental healthcare system. The findings further suggest that structural inequality is a powerful factor behind lay concepts of mental illness and that this is particularly harmful because it reinforces personal blame attributions instead of addressing the hidden structural forces that contribute to mental illness. The study highlights the subtle interrelations between cultural beliefs and structural vulnerabilities that should be addressed in mental health policy in order to diminish the effects of stigma on people with mental illnesses.
Understandings of depression among community members and primary healthcare attendees in rural Ethiopia: A qualitative study
Authors: Tekola Bethlehem , Mayston Rosie , Eshetu Tigist , Birhane Rahel , Milkias Barkot , Hanlon Charlotte , Fekadu Abebaw
Published: December 2021

Available evidence in Africa suggests that the prevalence of depression in primary care settings is high but it often goes unrecognized. In this study, we explored how depression is conceptualized and communicated among community members and primary care attendees diagnosed with depression in rural Ethiopia with the view to informing the development of interventions to improve detection. We conducted individual interviews with purposively selected primary care attendees with depression (n = 28; 16 females and 12 males) and focus group discussions (FGDs) with males, females, and priests (n = 21) selected based on their knowledge of their community. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. None of the community members identified depression as a mental illness. They considered depressive symptoms presented in a vignette as part of a normal reaction to the stresses of life. They considered medical intervention only when the woman's condition in the vignette deteriorated and “affected her mind.” In contrast, participants with depression talked about their condition as illness. Symptoms spontaneously reported by these participants only partially matched symptoms listed in the current diagnostic criteria for depressive disorders. In all participants’ accounts, spiritual explanations and traditional healing were prominent. The severity of symptoms mediates the decision to seek medical help. Improved detection may require an understanding of local conceptualizations in order to negotiate an intervention that is acceptable to affected people.
Theoretical study on the phase sensitivity of condenser type acoustic transducers at low frequencies
Authors: Liu Aibing , Liu Di , Zhang Fan , Wang Huiheng , Wu Jixing , Chen Feng , Feng Xiujuan
Published: December 2021

The phase sensitivity of the condenser type acoustic transducers at low frequencies is crucial for locating large-scale natural and manmade activities, but is now commonly calibrated based on comparison methods. Although the primary method, which traces its sensitivity back to the international standard unit is few studied. Recently, the explicit sensitivity models of the condenser type acoustic transducers based on the laser-pistonphone technique are built, and can be used to study the phase responses of acoustic transducers at infrasonic frequencies. So that, in this paper, the phase sensitivities of acoustic transducers when its rear vent connected to the calibrating sound field or outside atmosphere are studied in detail. Secondly, time domain analysis of generated sound pressures by displacement excitation are derived to reveal the mechanism of phase variation. Calculations show two distinct sensitivities with 90° phase lead and −10° phase lag limits for vent in field and vent out field calibrations, which are dominated by the pressure leakage and heat conduction effects at infrasonic frequencies.
Consideration of the effects of increasing spray cone angle and turbulence intensity on heavy-duty diesel engine pollution and specific outputs using CFD
Authors: Farajollahi Amir Hamzeh , Firuzi Reza , Rostami Mohsen , Bagherpor Farid
Published: December 2021

In this article, the effects of increasing spray cone angle and turbulence intensity on the performance and emission of heavy-duty diesel engine has been examined in two separate stages using AVL-Fire CFD code. First, the injector and its spray have been simulated with various geometries. In this step, the Eulerian-Eulerian model has been applied for injector simulation and the Eulerian -Lagrangian model has been applied for spray simulation. The numerical results of this step indicate that creating swirly flow inside the nozzle decreasing penetration length while, fuel spray cone angle increasing during the injection process. In the subsequent step, the heavy-duty diesel engine has been simulated with its conventional and different nozzle hole geometries. In this step, the Eulerian-Lagrangian model has been applied to simulate the engine cycle. The numerical results of this step show that the nozzle with spiral rifling like guides has better performance and lower emission compared to other nozzle geometries. In this case, the fuel consumption is decreasing 32% than cylindrical nozzle hole, while the engine power and its torque increasing 63%. In addition, the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) for the spiral convergent conical nozzle geometry reducing 15% and 30% respectively than cylindrical nozzle hole while engine has no soot emission problem. Diesel injector and engine CFD results and experimental data have been validated from previous researches.
At the intersection of existence, events, and milestones: A response to “Existence theory”
Authors: Wagner-Pacifici Robin
Published: December 2021

This paper responds to Baert, Morgan, and Ushiyama’s article, “Existence theory: Outline for a theory of social behaviour,” by drawing out and examining the paper’s identification of the importance of existential milestones and the dangers of their elusiveness for some leading to a sense of incomplete lives. Alternative perspectives on frustrated existential milestones are proposed via a focus on the relationship between existence and events.
Existence as a predicament
Authors: Outhwaite William
Published: December 2021

This short critical commentary on the article raises some questions about the authors’ model of temporality and the linear conception of ‘milestones’, while endorsing this conception in cases where people feel deprived of something they might have expected to obtain.
Critical remarks on existence theory: Between existentialism and phenomenology
Authors: Susen Simon
Published: December 2021

The main purpose of this paper is to examine the ‘existence theory’ proposed by Patrick Baert, Marcus Morgan, and Rin Ushiyama. To this end, it focuses on some key issues that could, and arguably should, be explored in more detail, especially if the authors decide to develop their project further, permitting them to establish a new interdisciplinary branch of inquiry. The comments and suggestions made in this paper are meant to be constructive, supporting the idea that Baert, Morgan, and Ushiyama’s outline could, and should, be turned into a bold, systematic, and long-term research programme. More specifically, the in-depth analysis of Baert, Morgan, and Ushiyama’s theoretical framework demonstrates that their undertaking, which draws on central insights from both existentialism and phenomenology, contributes to bridging the disciplinary gap between philosophy and sociology. The paper concludes by asserting that Baert, Morgan, and Ushiyama’s model provides a solid foundation for an ambitious, but viable, project that may result in the creation of a new current of research, capable of generating valuable insights into the tension-laden confluence of existential milestones, existential ladders, and existential urgencies in the theatre of human life.
Existence theory revisited: A reply to our critics
Authors: Baert Patrick , Morgan Marcus , Ushiyama Rin
Published: December 2021

In this essay, we provide a comprehensive reply to the critical commentaries by David Inglis, Thomas Kemple, William Outhwaite, Simon Susen, Bryan S. Turner, and Robin Wagner-Pacifici. Our reply is structured along three main pillars. Firstly, we clarify what we aim to achieve with existence theory. Drawing on neo-pragmatist philosophy, our aim is to present a new and useful perspective on a wide range of social phenomena; we do not attempt to tackle or resolve broad philosophical issues. Secondly, we demonstrate that we do not subscribe to an algorithmic notion of society which posits that people’s trajectories have to fit a neat, linear pathway. Related, we do not wish to impose a normative model that endorses the existential milestones that are dominant in any particular society. Thirdly, building on various helpful pointers from our critics, we elaborate on various ways in which the theory could be enriched and further developed: for instance, by bringing in insights from the sociology of generations, critical theory, and sociological studies of the body.
Excavating Europe’s last fascist monument: The Valley of the Fallen (Spain)
Authors: González-Ruibal Alfredo
Published: December 2021

Since 1945, most fascist monuments have disappeared or been deactivated in Western Europe. There is one in Spain, however, that remains fully operative: the Valley of the Fallen. The complex, devised by the dictator Francisco Franco, celebrates the Nationalist victory in the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), keeps the bodies of thousands of victims of the conflict, as well as the leading fascist ideologue and the dictator himself, and provides a material narrative that exalts the dictatorship. With the advent of democracy in 1978, the Valley remained unchanged, untouchable, and an important focus for fascist and extreme right celebrations, both national and international. However, with the new progressive government that came to power in 2018, it has become the object of an ambitious program of resignification in which archaeology has an important role to play. In this article, I describe how archaeological work undertaken at the Valley of the Fallen is contributing toward destabilizing the dictatorial narrative by opposing the monumental assemblage of fascism to the subaltern assemblage of those who built it.
Tempo and Mode in Cultural Macroevolution
Authors: Turchin Peter , Gavrilets Sergey
Published: December 2021

Evolutionary scientists studying social and cultural evolution have proposed a multitude of mechanisms by which cultural change can be effected. In this article we discuss two influential ideas from the theory of biological evolution that can inform this debate: the contrast between the micro- and macro-evolution, and the distinction between the tempo and mode of evolution. We add the empirical depth to these ideas by summarizing recent results from the analyses of data on past societies in Seshat: Global History Databank. Our review of these results suggests that the tempo (rates of change, including their acceleration and deceleration) of cultural macroevolution is characterized by periods of apparent stasis interspersed by rapid change. Furthermore, when we focus on large-scale changes in cultural traits of whole groups, the most important macroevolutionary mode involves inter-polity interactions, including competition and warfare, but also cultural exchange and selective imitation; mechanisms that are key components of cultural multilevel selection (CMLS) theory.
A Note on Religion
Authors: Betzig Laura
Published: December 2021

At the beginning of our era, after a battle on the Ionian Sea, Antony and Cleopatra took their own lives in Egypt, and Augustus was made an imperator by his senators . Roman emperors had sexual access to those senators’ daughters and wives, and to thousands of slaves. But they ran governments with help from their cubicularii, castrated civil servants. And they enforced an Imperial Cult: subjects made sacrifices to the emperor's genius, or procreative spirit; or they got disemboweled by wild animals, or decapitated. Then Constantine moved off from the Tiber to the Bosporus, and Europe was ruled over by a few. Lords covered the countryside with bastards, but passed on estates on to their oldest sons. Daughters and younger sons were put away in the Church, where some became parents, but most were reproductively suppressed: they were ἄνανδρος or anandros, or without a husband, and ἄγαμος or agamos, or without a wife. Heretics who objected got burned at the stake. Then the Crusaders expanded Europe to the East, and Columbus went off to the West, and politics, sex and religion became more democratic. Power was more widely distributed; more men and women had families if they wanted them, and monasteries emptied out. The Reformation followed the Roman Church, which had followed the Imperial Cult.
Recent progress in aircraft smart skin for structural health monitoring
Authors: Wang Yu , Hu Shuguang , Xiong Tao , Huang Yongan , Qiu Lei
Published: December 2021

Through the integration of advanced sensors, actuators, and micro-processors, aircraft smart skin technology can improve the structural performance of aircraft and make them self-perception, self-diagnosis, self-adaptation, self-learning, and self-repair. Aircraft smart skin for structural health monitoring (SHM) is an important type of aircraft smart skin and has received extensive attention in recent years. Large-scale, lightweight, and low-power consumption are three key problems hindering the realization and engineering applications of aircraft smart skin for SHM. In view of these problems and restrictions of practical aircraft onboard applications, this article reviews the current research progress on aircraft smart skin for SHM, introduces their design, materials, manufacturing process, and monitoring principles in detail, and discusses how they study above problems from these aspects. Finally, perspectives are proposed on the opportunities and future developments of aircraft smart skin for SHM.
‘I feel like I can’t do a lot’: Affectivity, reflection and action in ‘Transformative’ genocide education
Authors: Sadique Kim , Tangen James
Published: December 2021

Guided tours of memorial museums have sought to have an impact on visitors through an affective learning environment and critical reflection leading to ‘action’. However, there is limited work investigating the pedagogical underpinnings of such guided tours in order to understand whether they can facilitate action. This paper presents reflections of 21 students’ experiences of educational visits to the former Nazi extermination and concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau, Poland between 2017 and 2018. Students identified the guided tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau as having an affective dimension that enhanced understanding and brought about a perspective transformation but action was ill-defined. In considering ill-defined action, this paper attempts to frame understanding of the guided tour of the memorial museum within the context of Transformative Learning. It concludes that guiding practices should incorporate space for reflection and provide examples of potential ‘action’ so that visitors can mobilise their deeper understanding and experience long-term personal ‘change’.
Social Construction of Target Populations: A Theoretical Framework for Understanding Policy Approaches to Perinatal Illicit Substance Screening
Authors: Cooper Norlissa M. , Lyndon Audrey , McLemore Monica R. , Asiodu Ifeyinwa V.
Published: December 2021

Perinatal illicit substance use is a nursing and public health issue. Current screening policies have significant consequences for birthing individuals and their families. Racial disparities exist in spite of targeted and universal screening policies and practices. Thus, new theoretical approaches are needed to investigate perinatal illicit substance use screening in hospital settings. The purpose of this analysis is to evaluate the social construction of target populations theory in the context of perinatal illicit substance use screening. Using the theoretical insights of this theory to interrogate the approaches taken by policy makers to address perinatal illicit substance use and screening provides the contextual framework needed to understand why specific policy tools were selected when designing public policy to address these issues. The analysis and evaluation of this theory was conducted using the theory description and critical reflection model.
Human papillomavirus16 E6 but not E7 upregulates GLUT1 expression in lung cancer cells by upregulating thioredoxin expression
Authors: Gao Zi-Yu , Gu Na-Jin , Wu Ming-Zhe , Wang Shi-Yu , Xu Hong-Tao , Li Qing-Chang , Wu Guang-Ping
Published: December 2021

Background and objective: E6 and E7 proteins in human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 are major oncogenes in several types of tumors, including lung cancer. Previous studies have demonstrated that both E6 and E7 oncoproteins can upregulate GLUT1 protein and mRNA expression levels in lung cancer cells. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the main differences in the molecular mechanisms of GLUT1 expression regulated by E6 and E7. Methods: The double directional genetic manipulation and immunofluorescence were performed to explore the molecular mechanism of E6 or E7 upregulating the expression of GLUT1 in H1299 and A549 cell lines. Results: The overexpression of E6 in well-established lung cancer cell lines upregulated thioredoxin (Trx) protein expression. Notably, plasmid transfection or small interfering RNA transfection with E7 had no regulatory effect on Trx expression. As an important disulfide reductase of the intracellular antioxidant system, Trx plays important role in maintaining oxidative stress balance and protecting cells from oxidative damage. The overexpression of Trx increased the activation of NF-κB by upregulating p65 expression and promoting p65 nuclear translocation, and further upregulated GLUT1 protein and mRNA expression levels. The results of the present study demonstrated that E6, but not E7, upregulated GLUT1 expression in lung cancer cells by activating NF-κB due to the participation of Trx. Conclusion: These results suggest that Trx plays an important role in the pathogenesis of HPV-associated lung cancer, and propose a novel therapeutic target for HPV-associated lung cancer.
Next Generation Sequencing Reveals Pathogenic and Actionable Genetic Alterations of Soft Tissue Sarcoma in Chinese Patients: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Jin Gu , Wang Chunyang , Jia Dongdong , Qian Wenkang , Yin Chunming , Wang Danhua , Yang Quanyu , Li Tao , Zheng Aiwen
Published: December 2021

Background: Next generation sequencing (NGS) has systematically investigated the genomic landscape of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) in Western patients, but few reports have described the utility of NGS in identifying pathogenic and targetable mutations in Asian patients. Methods: We review our single center experience of identifying the genomic profile and feasible genetic mutations in 65 Chinese patients with STS by NGS. Results: On average, 3.35 mutations were identified per patient (range, 0-28), and at least one mutation could be detected in 95.4% (62/65) of patients. TP53, MDM2, CDK4, KDR, and NF1 were the most frequent mutation genes in Chinese STS patients. Actionable mutations were discovered in 36.9% (24/65) of patients, and clinical benefit was achieved in 4 patients treated with corresponding molecular targeted therapies. Conclusions: Our study describes the mutation profile of Chinese STS patients by a single center experience. Some patients have achieved improved clinical outcomes by adopting treatment based on the results of genetic testing. NGS may affect clinical decision-making as a routine clinical test for patients with STS.
Reward During Arm Training Improves Impairment and Activity After Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Widmer Mario , Held Jeremia P. O. , Wittmann Frieder , Valladares Belen , Lambercy Olivier , Sturzenegger Christian , Palla Antonella , Lutz Kai , Luft Andreas R.
Published: December 2021

Background

Learning and learning-related neuroplasticity in motor cortex are potential mechanisms mediating recovery of movement abilities after stroke. These mechanisms depend on dopaminergic projections from midbrain that may encode reward information. Likewise, therapist experience confirms the role of feedback/reward for training efficacy after stroke.

Objective

To test the hypothesis that rehabilitative training can be enhanced by adding performance feedback and monetary rewards.

Methods

This multicentric, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial used the ArmeoSenso virtual reality rehabilitation system to train 37 first-ever subacute stroke patients in arm-reaching to moving targets. The rewarded group (n = 19) trained with performance feedback (gameplay) and contingent monetary reward. The control group (n = 18) used the same system without monetary reward and with graphically minimized performance feedback. Primary outcome was the change in the two-dimensional reaching space until the end of the intervention period. Secondary clinical assessments were performed at baseline, after 3 weeks of training (15 1-hour sessions), and at 3 month follow-up. Duration and intensity of the interventions as well as concomitant therapy were comparable between groups.

Results

The two-dimensional reaching space showed an overall improvement but no difference between groups. The rewarded group, however, showed significantly greater improvements from baseline in secondary outcomes assessing arm activity (Box and Block Test at post-training: 6.03±2.95, P = .046 and 3 months: 9.66±3.11, P = .003; Wolf Motor Function Test [Score] at 3 months: .63±.22, P = .007) and arm impairment (Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity at 3 months: 8.22±3.11, P = .011).

Conclusions

Although neutral in its primary outcome, the trial signals a potential facilitating effect of reward on training-mediated improvement of arm paresis.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT02257125).
Transvenous embolization of vein of galen aneurysmal malformations using the “Chapot pressure cooker” technique
Authors: Shigematsu Tomoyoshi , Bazil Maximilian J , Matsoukas Stavros , Chapot Rene , Sorscher Michelle , Fifi Johanna T , Berenstein Alejandro
Published: December 2021

In some vein of galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) patients, transvenous embolization (TVE) is an attractive option, but its safety is unclear. Here we report the first two VGAM patients treated using the Chapot “pressure cooker” technique (ChPC).

Methods

Two patients, one 5-year-old and one 7-year-old, both presented with congestive heart failure in the newborn period and were subsequently treated in the newborn period with multiple, staged TAEs with n-BCA for choroidal VGAMs.

Results

We achieved progressive reduction in shunting and flow but were unable to accomplish complete closure of the malformation: in both patients, a small residual with numerous perforators persisted. The decision was made to perform TVE using the CHPC. In this technique, a guiding catheter is placed transjugular into the straight sinus (SS). One or two detachable tip microcatheters are advanced to the origin of the SS. Another microcatheter is advanced and the tip placed between the distal marker and the detachment zone of the former. Coils and n-BCA are used to prevent reflux of Onyx.

Conclusions

In this study, we recognized two important factors of traditional VGAM treatment that may cause interventionalists to consider the ChPC to treat VGAM: (1) without liquid embolic, deployed coils may not occlude the fistula entirely. (2) There is the concern of causing delayed bleeding should the arterial component of the fistula rupture. ChPC ameliorates these issues by offering complete closure of the fistula with liquid embolic material in TVE.
Storyboards as a Qualitative Method of Exploring Learners’ Experience With the Use of a Multilingual Support Strategy
Authors: Ayob Sameera , Omidire Margaret Funke
Published: December 2021

Globally, learners in multilingual classrooms experience challenges, especially when the language of instruction is not their first language (L1). This results in language barriers to learning when monolingual language-education policies prevail in multilingual contexts. Translanguaging as a pedagogy has gained momentum and accepts the use of multiple languages to co-exist in multilingual classrooms. Over the last decade, accepting the use of multiple languages in multilingual classrooms and including learners’ L1 to enhance learning and provide support have been gaining momentum. This article reports on utilising storyboards to explore learners’ perspectives and emotions in a study that uses translanguaging as an intervention with Grades 5 and 6 learners in two schools in a South African township. The storyboard technique is a creative qualitative method to understand the subjective experiences of how children experience L1 in multilingual classes by expressing their emotions and feelings on individual personal storyboard paper. Translanguaging practices were introduced in the two schools to understand how it affects the teaching and learning in multilingual classrooms. We describe how the storyboards depicted positive emotions and views towards translanguaging by gaining a deeper understanding of how multilingual practices make learning a holistic experience for the learners involved. We provide information on the context of translanguaging and the methods implemented to include L1 and describe how the use of storyboards as data gathering tools positively portrayed the learners’ learning experiences. We propose that the use of storyboards as a creative qualitative method of expressing childrens views and emotions in multilingual classes enriched the themes elicited.
Anti-icing hot air jet heat transfer augmentation employing inner channels
Authors: Saeed Farooq , Ahmed Kamran Z , Owes Amro OE , Paraschivoiu Ion
Published: December 2021

Many approaches exist today that employ hot-air from aircraft compressor bleed for anti-icing critical aircraft surfaces. This paper introduces and numerically analyzes the novel application of an inner or etched channel to augment heat transfer from a hot-air jet impinging on a curved surface representing the inner surface of an aircraft wing’s leading edge or slat. The study shows that proper positioning, geometry, and flow characteristics of a channel along the inner surface of the leading edge can significantly enhance heat transfer, boost the anti-icing system performance, and greatly enhance flight safety during critical icing weather conditions. Commercially available CFD software, ANSYS Fluent is used to model and analyze the effect of different geometric and flow parameters typical of those found in small to medium category commercial transport aircraft to help determine the optimum arrangement. These parameters include: (1) jet nozzle height-to-slot diameter ratios from 4 to 8, (2) channel width-to-slot diameter ratios from 0.4 to 1.8, and (3) inner-channel inlet location angles from 10° to 60°. Each configuration resulting from a combination of the above parameters was simulated at Reynolds numbers based on jet-slot diameter of 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000. Empirical relations based on available experimental data are used to validate the results. The main findings of the study reveal that the jet height-to-slot diameter ratio of 6, inner channel height-to-slot diameter ratios of 1.8, and inner-channel inlet angular locations of 10° combination resulted in the highest heat transfer at all Reynolds number as well as higher at increased Reynold numbers.
Deploying social robots in museum settings: A quasi-systematic review exploring purpose and acceptability
Authors: Gasteiger Norina , Hellou Mehdi , Ahn Ho Seok
Published: December 2021

Social robots are increasingly used within public spaces, including museum settings. This quasi-systematic review identifies and synthesizes the evidence on social robots that have recently been deployed in museum settings. It specifically focuses on their intended purpose, their acceptability and factors important for successful human–robot interaction in this setting. Four databases (PsycINFO, SCOPUS, ACM Digital Library and IEEE Xplore) were systematically searched to retrieve literature published within the last 10 years on human–robot interaction studies with social robots deployed in museum settings. Due to the heterogeneous nature of the studies, qualitative and quantitative findings were summarized. A total of 604 items were identified, of which 12 were included in the review. Robots in 11 studies were physical and 1 was an embodied conversational agent presented as a virtual robot. In 75% of the studies ( n = 9), the purpose of the robots was to act as museum guides, while in 17% ( n = 2) they entertained visitors and in 8% ( n = 1) the robot taught visitors in a museum outreach programme. Overall, many of the robots were found to be acceptable for use within museum settings. Three main themes for successful social human–robot interaction were evident across the findings: (1) facial expressions, (2) movement and (3) communication and speech. There is a great opportunity for social robots to be deployed within museum settings, as guides, educators, entertainers or a combination thereof. State-of-the-art methods have led to the development of museum robots that are more capable of social interaction; however, more work is required to develop speech capabilities that work in the ‘wild’. Future work should combine the factors that have been identified within this review to improve human–robot interaction.
Offensive behaviours against school leaders: Prevalence, perpetrators and mediators in Australian government schools
Authors: Arnold Ben , Rahimi Mark , Riley Phil
Published: December 2021

Offensive behaviour towards school employees is widespread and involves a number of potentially harmful acts. There is evidence that school employees’ experiences of offensive behaviour are shaped by demographic, role and school-based factors that mediate the likelihood of victimisation. However, very few studies have investigated the prevalence and correlates of offensive behaviour against school leaders. This study analysed 13,028 survey responses from the Australia Principal Occupational Health, Safety and Wellbeing survey that were completed between the years 2011 and 2019. The analysis determined the prevalence of bullying, threats of violence and physical violence against government school leaders, the main perpetrators of these offenses and the moderating effects of key socio-demographic factors. Results from the study demonstrated that considerable proportions of Australian government school leaders were subjected to offensive behaviour with an average (pooled) prevalence of 36.2% for bullying, 48.6% for threats of violence and 38.7% for physical violence. School leaders report that students and parents are responsible for most offensive behaviours, but that colleagues also contribute considerably to incidents of bullying. Our findings illustrate that offensive behaviours against Australian school leaders are very high and that particular groups of school leaders are at elevated risk of victimization, especially female school leaders and to a lesser extent assistant principals and those inner or outer regional areas.
Effects of contrast strength training with elastic band program on sprint, jump, strength, balance and repeated change of direction in young female handball players
Authors: Hammami Mehrez , Gaamouri Nawel , Cherni Yosser , Chelly Mohamed Souhaiel , Hill Lee , Knechtle Beat
Published: December 2021

Maximal strength, power and his derivates (sprint, change of direction repeatedly and jump) are considered as major determinants of success in elite handball players. Contrast strength training with elastic band (CSTEB) program is form of resistance training, and may play an important method of training to improve this quality. This study examined the effects of 10-week contrast strength training with elastic band (CSTEB) program on physical performance in young female handball players. Thirty participants (age: 15.7  ±  0.3 years; body mass: 63.7  ±  3.7 kg; body height: 166.8  ±  3.8 cm; body fat: 26.9  ±  3.4; and Maturity-offset: 2.9  ±  0.3 years) were randomly assigned between experimental group (EG; n = 15) and control group (CG; n = 15). Two-way analyses of variance (group × time) were assessed for handgrip; back extensor; medicine ball throw; 30-m sprint times; Modiﬁed Illinois change-of-direction (Illinois-MT); four jump tests [(squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), countermovement jump with arms (CMJA) and five jump test (5JT)]; static (stork) and dynamic (Y balance) balance tests; and repeated sprint T-test (RSTT). The EG enhanced all strength performance [handgrip right, handgrip left, back extensor strength and medicine ball throw (p < 0.001)] compared to CG. The EG enhanced all sprint performance. The EG also improved performance in the Illinois-MT. All jump performance improved signiﬁcantly [SJ (p = 0.007), CMJ (p = 0.001) and CMJA (p = 0.001)] except 5JT in the EG. Of the same, 3 of 4 repeated sprint T-test scores [RSTT-Best-Time, RSTT-Mean-Time and RSTT-Total-Time] increased significantly in the EG relative to the CG. Conversely, there were no significant changes in balance performance between groups. It is concluded that 10-weeks of CSTEB improved physical performance (strength, sprint, change of direction, jump, and repeated change of direction) measures in young female handball players.
Real-world experience with tofacitinib in ulcerative colitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lucaciu Laura A. , Constantine-Cooke Nathan , Plevris Nikolas , Siakavellas Spyros , Derikx Lauranne A.A.P. , Jones Gareth-Rhys , Lees Charles W.
Published: December 2021

Background and aims:

Tofacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor (JAKi) recently approved for the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC) based on robust efficacy and safety data derived from OCTAVE clinical trials. Evidence on the outcomes of tofacitinib therapy in real-world UC patients is needed, as a number of these patients would be deemed ineligible for clinical trials. We have therefore summarised data derived from observational, real-world evidence (RWE) studies on the effectiveness and safety of tofacitinib in moderate to severe UC patients.

Methods:

We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane databases for observational studies on the use of tofacitinib in UC patients, published between 30 May 2018 and 24 January 2021. Pooled induction (8–14 weeks) and maintenance (16–26 weeks) clinical response and remission rates were calculated, as well as the proportion of reported adverse events using random effects models.

Results:

Nine studies were included, comprising 830 patients, of which 81% were previously treated with anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and 57% with vedolizumab. Induction of clinical response and remission were achieved in 51% (95% confidence interval, 41–60%) and 37% (26–45%) of patients, after a median follow-up of 8 weeks. At the end of a median follow-up of 24 weeks, maintenance of clinical response and remission were met in 40% (31–50%) and 29% (23–36%) of patients, respectively. Thirty-two percent of the patients had at least one adverse event, the most commonly reported being mild infection (13%) and worsening of UC, requiring colectomy (13%). A third of the patients (35%) discontinued tofacitinib, most frequently due to primary non-response (51%).

Conclusion:

Tofacitinib is a safe and effective therapy in real-world UC patients, as previously reported by clinical trials.
Health-related quality of life and functional disorders after diverticular surgery
Authors: Segna Daniel , Jaklin Paul J. , Schnüriger Beat , Misselwitz Benjamin
Published: December 2021

Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are leading indications for colorectal surgery in Western countries. Abdominal pain, functional disorders, and low health-related quality of life (HRQoL) can limit the outcome of abdominal surgery even in the absence of complications. Therefore, we aimed to review current evidence on postoperative long-term outcomes including HRQoL, functional disorders, abdominal pain, and patients’ satisfaction after diverticular surgery for diverticulosis/diverticulitis. We performed a PubMed database search (inception: 17 December 2020). Identified publications were screened and outcome parameters extracted. In summary, HRQoL increased after diverticular surgery in 9 out of 10 longitudinal cohort studies. Similarly, patients’ satisfaction with treatment and their choice to undergo surgery was commonly reported as high or very good, as reported in eight studies. In a randomized control trial and retrospective cohort, elective diverticular surgery was superior to conservative treatment regarding HRQoL. In cross-sectional analyses, chronic abdominal pain and functional disorders including defaecation disorders or diarrhoea/obstipation were found in a relevant fraction of patients. Incontinence ranged from 5% to 25% with insufficient data for comparison before and after surgery. However, functional disorders did not result in decreased HRQoL in most studies, and no increase in functional disorders was observed after elective diverticular surgery in longitudinal analyses. We conclude that HRQoL among operated patients with diverticular disease improved in most studies after surgery. Functional disorders and postoperative abdominal pain can be present after elective diverticular surgery; however, no increase in functional disorders was observed in longitudinal studies. Functional disorders after diverticular surgery need to be carefully discussed with the patient before surgery and a careful clinical assessment before surgery including incontinence scoring should be considered.
Australian family day care educators’ experiences of supporting children’s mental health, and their own mental health and wellbeing
Authors: McGuffog Romany , Fitzgeraldson Elloyse , Lyford Bronte , Triandafilidis Zoi , Fitzpatrick Sally , Hazel Gavin
Published: December 2021

This mixed-methods study explored (1) family day care (FDC) educators’ confidence and capability to support children’s mental health, and (2) assessed their own mental health and wellbeing. Descriptive analysis of the survey ( n = 144) highlighted that most participants were in the normal range for mental health and wellbeing; however, identifying mental ill-health in children, access to resources and awareness of support services were areas where participants were less likely to feel confident or capable. In the interviews ( n = 14), three themes were identified in the interviews for the first research question (including the central role of the FDC educator, lack of training and resources and limited professional support) and three themes were identified for the second research question (the importance of mental health for educators, being a small business owner and connecting with other educators). The results highlighted a need for additional support and resources for educators specifically targeting the mental health and wellbeing of children.
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis due to Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Following Ad26.COV2.S: A First Real-World Case Report of a Male Subject
Authors: Asif Samia , Kesireddy Meghana , Koepsell Scott A. , Gonzalez-Castellon Marco A. , Gundabolu Krishna , Baljevic Muhamed
Published: December 2021

Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) or Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT) had been reported in patients receiving the Ad26.COV2.S vaccination (Johnson & Johnson [J&J]/Janssen) vaccine. They frequently presented with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), but venous or arterial thrombosis at other locations can be present. The majority of those affected are younger adult females. Therefore, after a brief pause from April 13–23, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended caution in using this vaccine in females under 50 years. Based on the reported 28 cases of TTS after this vaccination (data till April 21, 2021) by CDC, 22 were females (78%), and 6 were male. None of those males had CVST but had thrombosis at other locations. We report the first case of a young male with TTS and CVST following Ad26.COV2.S vaccine presented with severe headache and diagnosed with acute right transverse and sigmoid cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, multiple right-sided pulmonary emboli, and right hepatic vein thrombosis. He was treated with parenteral anticoagulation with argatroban and intravenous immune globulin with the improvement of his symptoms. A heparin-induced thrombocytopenia with thrombosis (HITT) like syndrome caused by the genesis of a platelet-activating autoantibody against platelet factor 4 (PF4) triggered by adenoviral vector-based COVID-19 vaccinations is understood to be the underlying pathophysiology. TTS with CVST should be considered when patients present with headaches, stroke-like neurological symptoms, thrombocytopenia, and symptom onset 6–15 days after Ad26.COV2.S vaccination.
Economic dependence and parental protection: A comparative analysis of Austrian and Slovenian labour and social security rights of economically dependent self-employed parents
Authors: Bagari Sara , Sagmeister Maria
Published: December 2021

Taking parental protection rights as a clear-cut field of study, this article argues that there are significant protection gaps in the social rights and employment protection of the economically dependent self-employed. Their exclusion from employment protection can be justified as far as the protective purpose is tied to the personal subordination of the employee relationship. However, certain vulnerabilities arise not from personal, but from economic dependency, whereas the changing labour market and the growing area of precarious self-employment must be considered. Comparing the rights of working parents in Slovenia and Austria, we distinguish between employees and economically dependent self-employed persons in this specific area and point to challenges for the wider field of labour and social rights. The purposes of parental protection rights are diverse; they include health protection, guarantee social security and serve equal treatment purposes. Therefore, they represent an ideal field to discuss arguments regarding the inclusion or exclusion of the economically dependent self-employed into different protective frameworks.
Platform work in Europe: The need for a multilevel solution to protect the so-called self-employed
Authors: Boot Gerrard
Published: December 2021

To protect the so-called self-employed, a multilevel solution is needed. Requalification is a first step and to do this, a broad definition of the employment agreement and the presumption of an employment agreement in some situations, is useful. But even then, a clear distinction between bogus self-employed and real entrepreneurs is sometimes difficult to make and requalification for the self-employed who work for individuals is problematic. Working on the base of a service contract gives some protection and besides that, protection for all working people is needed, such as, for example, a financial contribution in case of disability.
Discrimination within a group of workers with disabilities. Comment to Court of Justice of the European union, case C-16/19
Authors: Oliveira Pedro
Published: December 2021

In January 2021, the Court of Justice of the European Union delivered a remarkable judgment regarding the rights of workers with disabilities. The case concerned a Polish employer who decided to grant a monthly allowance to workers with disabilities if such workers provided a disability certificate after a certain date. However, those workers who had submitted their certificates before the specified date, including VL, were not entitled to that allowance. As a result, VL brought an action against the employer before a Polish Court claiming that she had been discriminated against due to her disability. The aim of the following note is to raise awareness regarding some of the main points of the argumentative rhetoric of the Court of Justice.
The Effects of Bilateral and Ipsilateral Auditory Stimuli on the Subcomponents of Visual Attention
Authors: Fu Jing , Guo Xuanru , Tang Xiaoyu , Wang Aijun , Zhang Ming , Gao Yulin , Seno Takeharu
Published: December 2021

Attention contains three functional network subcomponents of alerting, orienting, and executive control. The attention network test (ANT) is usually used to measure the efficiency of three attention subcomponents. Previous researches have focused on examining the unimodal attention with visual or auditory ANT paradigms. However, it is still unclear how an auditory stimulus influences the visual attention networks. This study investigated the effects of bilateral auditory stimuli (Experiment 1) and ipsilateral auditory stimulus (Experiment 2) on the visual attention subcomponents. We employed an ANT paradigm and manipulated the target modality types, including visual and audiovisual modalities. The participants were instructed to distinguish the direction of the central arrow surrounded by distractor arrows. In Experiment 1, we found that the simultaneous bilateral auditory stimuli reduced the efficiency of visual alerting and orienting, but had no significant effect on the efficiency of visual executive control. In Experiment 2, the ipsilateral auditory stimulus reduced the efficiency of visual executive control, but had no significant effect on the efficiency of visual alerting and orienting. We also observed a reduced relative multisensory response enhancement (rMRE) effect in cue condition relative to no cue condition (Experiment 1), and an increased rMRE effect in congruent condition compared with incongruent condition (Experiment 2). These results firstly provide evidence for the alerting, orienting and executive control effects in audiovisual condition. And the bilateral and ipsilateral auditory stimuli have different effects on the subcomponents of visual attention.
On the Spatiotemporal Nature of Vision, as Revealed by Covered Bridges and Puddles: A Dispatch from Vermont
Authors: Caplovitz Gideon Paul
Published: December 2021

Retinal painting, anorthoscopic perception and amodal completion are terms to describe visual phenomena that highlight the spatiotemporal integrative mechanisms that underlie primate vision. Although commonly studied using simplified lab-friendly stimuli presented on a computer screen, this is a report of observations made in a novel real-world context that highlight the rich contributions the mechanisms underlying these phenomena make to naturalistic vision.