bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ground-based VLF wave intensity variations investigated by the principal component analysis
Authors: Bezděková Barbora , Němec František , Manninen Jyrki
Published: February 2022

Very low frequency wave intensity variations measured by the Kannuslehto station, Finland in the frequency range 0–12 kHz between 2016 and 2020 are analyzed by the principal component analysis (PCA). As the analyzed ground-based measurements are basically continuous, the length of individual basis vectors entering into PCA is fundamentally arbitrary. To better characterize both long- and short-period variations, two PCAs with different lengths of the basis vectors are eventually performed. Specifically, either daily frequency–time spectrograms or individual frequency spectra are chosen as the PCA basis vectors. Analysis of the first three principal components shows substantial variations of the wave intensity due to seasonal and local time effects. Intensity variations related to the geomagnetic activity characterized by Kp and AE indices and standard deviation of the magnetic field magnitude are less significant. Moreover, PCA allows one to distinguish between nighttime and daytime Kannuslehto variations and study them independently. Solar and geomagnetic activity effects on the daytime and nighttime measurements are discussed. Wave intensity variations related to substorm occurrence are also analyzed.

Graphic Abstract
Automated market makers and decentralized exchanges: a DeFi primer
Authors: Mohan Vijay
Published: February 2022

Recent advancements in decentralized finance (DeFi) have resulted in a rapid increase in the use of Automated Market Makers (AMMs) for creating decentralized exchanges (DEXs). In this paper, we organize these developments by treating an AMM as a neoclassical black-box characterized by the conversion of inputs (tokens) to outputs (prices). The conversion is governed by the technology of the AMM summarized by an ‘exchange function’. Various types of AMMs are examined, including: Constant Product Market Makers; Constant Mean Market Makers; Constant Sum Market Makers; Hybrid Function Market Makers; and, Dynamic Automated Market Makers. The paper also looks at the impact of introducing concentrated liquidity in an AMM. Overall, the framework presented here provides an intuitive geometric representation of how an AMM operates, and a clear delineation of the similarities and differences across the various types of AMMs.
Non-Value-Added Tax to improve market fairness and quality
Authors: Veryzhenko Iryna , Jonath Arthur , Harb Etienne
Published: February 2022

The promotion of both market fairness and efficiency has long been a goal of securities market regulators worldwide. Accelerated digital disruption and abusive trading behaviors, such as the GameStop mania, prompt regulatory changes. It is unclear how this “democratization” of trading power affects market fairness as economies cope with pandemic-driven shifts in basic systems. Excessive speculation and market manipulation undermine the quality of financial markets in the sense that they cause volatility and increase the pain of bubble and crash events. Thereby, they weaken public confidence in financial markets to fulfill their roles in proper capital allocation to irrigate the real economy and generate value for society. While previous studies have mostly focused on market efficiency, our study proposes a tool to improve market fairness, even under periods of stress. To encourage value generation and improve market quality, we advance a graduated Non-Value-Added Tax that we implement in an agent-based model that can realistically capture the properties of real-world financial markets. A profitable transaction is taxed at a higher rate if it does not enhance the efficiency measured by deviation from fundamentals. When an agent locks in profit not supported by fundamentals but driven by trend-following strategies, the generated profit is taxed at various rates under the Non-Value-Added Tax regime. Unlike existing financial transaction taxes, the non-value-added tax is levied on profit rather than on price or volume. We show that the proposed tax encourages profitable trades that add value to the market and discourages valueless profit-making. It significantly curtails volatility and prevents the occurrence of extreme market events, such as bubbles and crashes.
The relationship between women’s individual empowerment and the support to female genital cutting continuation: a study on 7 African countries
Authors: Farina Patrizia , Ortensi Livia , Pettinato Thomas , Ripamonti Enrico
Published: February 2022

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is still present in many African countries, as well as a few others. The United Nations has targeted women’s empowerment in terms of both women’s health and gender equality as one of its Sustainable Development Goals. In this paper, we aimed to study the possible link between women’s empowerment and support for the continuation of FGM/C. We used DHS data from seven African countries and considered both the empowerment and FGM/C modules. We selected empowerment variables based on Kabeer’s conceptual framework and used multilevel logistic models to evaluate the putative role of empowerment in support for discontinuing the practice. The multilevel models highlighted the protective effect of education. Other variables, including justification of intimate partner violence (IPV) and having experienced FGM/C, were associated with FGM/C support. The relationship between decision-making and FGM/C support appears complex, while the unmet need for contraception and job conditions do not seem to play a role. Our findings confirm that some aspects of women’s empowerment (education and rejection of IPV) may enhance the discontinuation of FGM/C. However, the relationship between empowerment and support for continuation of FGM/C is complex and should not be treated as self-evident. Thus, using DHS data, we empirically support the UN’s proposal for discontinuing FGM/C through sustaining women’s empowerment.
Face masks have emotion-dependent dissociable effects on accuracy and confidence in identifying facial expressions of emotion
Authors: Grenville Emily , Dwyer Dominic M.
Published: February 2022

The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in increased use of face masks worldwide. Here, we examined the effect of wearing a face mask on the ability to recognise facial expressions of emotion. In a within-subjects design, 100 UK-based undergraduate students were shown facial expressions of anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and neutral expression; these were either posed with or without a face mask, or with a face mask artificially imposed onto them. Participants identified the emotion portrayed in the photographs from a fixed choice array of answers and rated their confidence in their selection. While overall accuracy was higher without than with masks, the effect varied across emotions, with a clear advantage without masks in disgust, happiness, and sadness; no effect for neutral, and lower accuracy without masks for anger and fear. In contrast, confidence was generally higher without masks, with the effect clear for all emotions other than anger. These results confirm that emotion recognition is affected by face mask wearing, but reveal that the effect depends on the emotion being displayed—with this emotion-dependence not reflected in subjects’ confidence. The disparity between the effects of mask wearing on different emotions and the failure of this to be reflected in confidence ratings suggests that mask wearing not only effects emotion recognition, but may also create biases in the perception of facial expressions of emotion of which perceivers are unaware. In addition, the similarity of results between the Imposed Mask and Posed Mask conditions suggests that prior research using artificially imposed masks has not been deleteriously affected by the use of this manipulation.
Learning analytics dashboard: a tool for providing actionable insights to learners
Authors: Susnjak Teo , Ramaswami Gomathy Suganya , Mathrani Anuradha
Published: February 2022

This study investigates current approaches to learning analytics (LA) dashboarding while highlighting challenges faced by education providers in their operationalization. We analyze recent dashboards for their ability to provide actionable insights which promote informed responses by learners in making adjustments to their learning habits. Our study finds that most LA dashboards merely employ surface-level descriptive analytics, while only few go beyond and use predictive analytics. In response to the identified gaps in recently published dashboards, we propose a state-of-the-art dashboard that not only leverages descriptive analytics components, but also integrates machine learning in a way that enables both predictive and prescriptive analytics. We demonstrate how emerging analytics tools can be used in order to enable learners to adequately interpret the predictive model behavior, and more specifically to understand how a predictive model arrives at a given prediction. We highlight how these capabilities build trust and satisfy emerging regulatory requirements surrounding predictive analytics. Additionally, we show how data-driven prescriptive analytics can be deployed within dashboards in order to provide concrete advice to the learners, and thereby increase the likelihood of triggering behavioral changes. Our proposed dashboard is the first of its kind in terms of breadth of analytics that it integrates, and is currently deployed for trials at a higher education institution.
Lower limb axonal mononeuropathies as sequelae of COVID-19: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Mahmood Saad Bin Zafar , Mushtaq Muhammad Zain , Kanwar Dureshahwar , Ali Syed Ahsan
Published: February 2022

Background

Neurological symptoms and complications of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were seldom discussed in the literature initially. Neurological symptoms such as headache, dizziness, anosmia, hypogeusia, and neuralgia are, however, now being reported commonly. Mononeuropathies are rare complications of COVID-19, with most cases associated with prolonged intensive care stay.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old gentleman with prior history of well-controlled diabetes and hypertension was recently treated for COVID-19 pneumonia with supplemental oxygen and positive pressure ventilation. He now presented with left-sided foot weakness two weeks after recovering from the viral illness. On examination he had normal bulk and tone and a power of 4/5 in proximal and distal muscles of bilateral lower limbs except for ankle dorsiflexion on the left which was 2/5. He also had absent ankle and knee reflexes bilaterally with bilateral flexor plantar reflexes. Since the patient had no back pain and the sensory system was normal, the lesion was localized to the peripheral nerves and a Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography (NCS/EMG) was done. NCS/EMG showed findings suggestive of axonal mononeuropathies. Relevant workup done to identify the cause of mononeuropathy was negative including infectious and autoimmune workup. Since diabetes was well-controlled and he had no intensive care stay his findings were presumed to be associated with resolving COVID-19 infection. The patient underwent aggressive daily physical therapy and has started to show improvement in symptoms.

Conclusions

Complications such as mononeuropathies should be kept in mind in patients recovering from COVID-19 infection, since timely diagnosis can improve clinical outcomes in patients.
Is the patient aware of the difference between resurfaced and nonresurfaced patella after bilateral total knee arthroplasty? A systematic review of simultaneous bilateral randomized trials
Authors: Choi Keun Young , In Yong , Kim Man Soo , Sohn Sueen , Koh In Jun
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The optimal practice of patellar management in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. This systematic review was conducted to compare patella-related (1) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), (2) clinical outcomes, and (3) reoperation rates after TKA with patellar resurfacing (PR) and nonresurfacing (NPR) in single patients undergoing bilateral patellar procedures during simultaneous bilateral TKA.

Methods

This review included prospective bilateral randomized trials investigating patella-related PROMs, clinical outcomes, and reoperation (secondary resurfacing and patellar component revision) and other patella-related complications in single patients undergoing randomly assigned PR and NPR during bilateral TKA.

Results

Six studies were included. There was no difference in PROMs between PR and NPR in five studies, whereas PR was found to be superior to NPR in one study. Five studies reported similar functional outcomes and complication rates between PR and NPR, while one study found better clinical outcomes and a lower complication rate in PR. Between-group secondary resurfacing and patellar revision rates were similar in all studies.

Conclusions

The majority of patients who underwent bilateral patellar procedures could not tell the difference between PR and NPR following bilateral TKA. There were no differences in clinical outcomes or reoperation and complication rates between PR and NPR. No evidence was found to support routine PR.

Level of evidence: Therapeutic Level 1
Association of Internet gaming disorder symptoms with anxiety and depressive symptoms and substance use: an international cross-sectional study
Authors: Burkauskas Julius , Griskova-Bulanova Inga , Đorić Ana , Balhara Yatan Pal Singh , Sidharth Arya , Ransing Ramdas , Thi Tuong –. Vi Vu , Huong Truong Ngoc , Kafali Helin Yilmaz , Erzin Gamze , Vally Zahir , Chowdhury Mita Rani Roy , Sharma Pawan , Shakya Rabi , Moreira Paulo , Faria Sara , Noor Isa Multazam , Campos Luís Antônio Monteiro , Szczegielniak Anna Rebeka , Stevanovic Dejan
Published: February 2022

Background

Problematic Internet gaming is an increasingly recognized global mental health problem. This multicultural cross-sectional study examined the association between Internet gaming disorder (IGD) symptoms and anxiety and depressive symptoms and substance use within a sample of young Internet users. In total, 3529 college/university students (1260 (35.7%) males; mean age 21 ± 3 years) were surveyed online. We assessed online gaming patterns using the Internet Gaming Disorder Self-report for College/University Students (ICMH-IGD), symptoms of depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and symptoms of anxiety using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale-7.

Results

IGD symptoms were associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance use, independent of time spent online, psychiatric diagnosis, culture, or sociodemographic characteristics. For males, more significant IGD symptoms were associated with more extended Internet browsing per day time and higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms, while for females, with more extended Internet browsing per day time, marihuana use, and higher levels of depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Our study found that more overt symptoms of IGD were associated with higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms and substance use. Still, these associations differed among males and females, suggesting that gender differences should be considered when planning specific treatments.
Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infection among children under 2 years from urban and rural settings in Ogun state, Nigeria: implication for control strategy
Authors: Idowu Olufunmilayo A. , Babalola Ayodele S. , Olapegba T.
Published: February 2022

Background

Pre-school-aged children are always excluded in mass intervention policies for control of soil-transmitted helminths in Nigera. The need for evidence on infectivity of children in this age group cannot be overemphasized. This study seeks to determine the prevalence of STH among 103 children who are less than 2 years of age in an urban and rural area of Ogun State, Nigeria. This study through questionnaire administration also obtained relevant demographic information and hygiene behavior from parents of children recruited to this study.

Results

The overall prevalence of 69.9% was recorded, with Ascaris lumbricoides occurring as the most prevalent helminth (68.0%). This was followed by Hook worm (49.5%) and Trichris trichuria (18.5%). A significant increase in prevalence of hookworm was observed with increase in age (p < 0.05). Generally, A. Lumbricoides was found to be more prevalent as a single infection in the study population. Most of the T. Trichuria and hookworm infections were either in co-infections infections with A. Lumbricoides. The prevalence of A. Lumbricoides and Hookworm were significantly high in rural community when compared with urban (p < 0.05). Poor hygiene practices were common among the study participants.

Conclusions

The prevalence of STH infection is incredibly high in this age group that was for a long time considered as less important when it comes to burden due to STH. Therefore, there is a need to include them into future plans for control interventions.
Implementing traumatic brain injury screening in behavioral healthcare: protocol for a prospective mixed methods study
Authors: Coxe-Hyzak Kathryn A. , Bunger Alicia C. , Bogner Jennifer , Davis Alan K. , Corrigan John D.
Published: February 2022

Background

Characteristics of both individuals and innovations are foundational determinants to the adoption of evidenced-based practices (EBPs). However, our understanding about what drives EBP adoption is limited by few studies examining relationships among implementation determinants and implementation outcomes through theory-driven hypothesis testing. Therefore, drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior and Diffusion of Innovations Theory, this study will disentangle relationships between provider characteristics and innovation factors on the early adoption of the Ohio State University Traumatic Brain Injury Identification Method (OSU TBI-ID) in behavioral health settings.

Methods

This study will utilize an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. In Phase I (quantitative), Time 1, we will investigate behavioral health providers (N = 200) attitudes, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and intentions to screen for TBI upon completion of a video module introducing the OSU TBI-ID. At Time 2, we will examine the number of TBI screens conducted over the previous month, as well as the feasibility, appropriateness, and acceptability of using the OSU TBI-ID in practice. Structural equation modeling will be used to determine whether provider characteristics predict TBI screening intentions, and whether intentions mediate actual TBI screening behaviors. We will then test whether feasibility, appropriateness, and acceptability of the OSU TBI-ID moderates the relationship between intentions and TBI screening behaviors. In Phase II (qualitative), we will develop an interview guide using results from Phase I and will conduct semi-structured interviews with providers (N = 20) to assess contextual determinants of TBI screening adoption. Qualitative data will be thematically analyzed using sensitizing concepts from the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and integrated with the quantitative results using a joint display.

Discussion

This mixed methods study capitalizes on two theory-driven hypotheses bridging proximal (e.g., screening intent) to distal (actual behaviors) implementation outcomes and will contextualize these results qualitatively to advance our understanding about why TBI screening adoption has failed to translate to the behavioral healthcare context. Results of this study will offer insights into what is driving TBI screening adoption so that implementation strategies can be selected with greater precision to improve the adoption, sustainment, and scale-up of TBI screening in behavioral healthcare.
Molecular basis of AR and STK11 genes associated pathogenesis via AMPK pathway and adipocytokine signalling pathway in the development of metabolic disorders in PCOS women
Authors: Gollapalli Pavan , Kumari N. Suchetha , Shetty Praveenkumar , Gnanasekaran Tamizh Selvan
Published: February 2022

Background

One of the most common hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In recent years, it has been found that insulin resistance is a common metabolic abnormality in women with PCOS and leads to an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. To explore the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that regulate these kinds of metabolic risks in PCOS women, we chose the gene expression profile of GSE8157 from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database.

Results

Using the GEO2R tool, we identified a total of 339 DEGs between the case and the control sample groups. Gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of gene and genome pathway enrichment analysis were subsequently conducted. High connectivity, betweenness centrality, bottleneck centrality, closeness centrality, and radiality measures were used to rank the ten hub genes. Furthermore, the overlap of these genes resulted in the development of two key genes, AR and STK11. The AMPK and adipocytokine signaling pathways are the two main pathways that these DEGs are involved.

Conclusions

The backbone genes, hub genes and pathways identified would assist us in further exploring the molecular basis of developing risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in PCOS women and thus provide diagnostic or therapeutic clues.
A Refugee Rose of competencies and capabilities for mental healthcare of refugees
Authors: Bhui Kamaldeep
Published: February 2022

In this paper, I set out the challenges of care for refugees and suggest approaches to assessment and intervention. I discuss clinical interventions that can address the immediate concern of the clinician in a bio-psycho-social framework, and the value of considering eco-social and structural influences that can hinder recovery and perpetuate inequalities. Refugees face multiple adversities before, during and after escaping from life-threatening situations, political violence, torture and persecution. They present with complex health needs and encounter hostility from host countries and public services, which see their needs as an additional demand on the public purse. Regrettably, existing care practice and training of professionals do not often include skills for working across cultures, including cultural formulations and fair assessment, cultural adaptation of interventions, cultural competence and cultural consultation methods, including clinical ethnography and exploration of cultural identity and explanatory models. There are little data on effective and kind models of interpretation and translation. Care systems are rarely designed to fully address the needs of refugees. Health practitioners are not trained to address structural and institutional racism and discrimination, which leads to exclusion of the most marginalised, with little attention to social justice and fair processes as part of appropriate healthcare.
A full CIRCLE: inclusion of autistic doctors in the Royal College Of Psychiatrists’ values and Equality Action Plan
Authors: McCowan Sue , Shaw Sebastian C. K. , Doherty Mary , Grosjean Bernadette , Blank Paula , Kinnear Malcolm
Published: February 2022

Autistic psychiatrists bring strengths and values to the workforce and ask to be acknowledged and supported as part of the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ CIRCLE values and Equality Action Plan. Courage and collaboration are required to jointly learn and innovate, promoting well-being, resilience and excellence for autistic doctors.
Patient's Perspective on the Impact of COVID-19 on Cancer Treatment in Nigeria
Authors: Joseph Adedayo , Olatosi Bankole , Haider Mohammad Rifat , Adegboyega Bolanle C. , Lasebikan Nwamaka N. , Aliyu Usman M. , Ali-Gombe Musa , Jimoh Mutiu A. , Biyi-Olutunde Olusegun Abayomi , Awofeso Opeyemi , Fatiregun Omolara Aminat , Oboh Evaristus Oseiwe , Nwachukwu Emmanuella , Zubairu Ismail H. , Otene Samuel A. , Iyare Oluwatoyin I. , Andero Temitope , Musbau Alabi Babatunde , Ajose Azeezat , Onitilo Adedayo A.
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE

Because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, health care organizations introduced guidelines for modifications to health and cancer medical care delivery to mitigate transmission and ensure quality health outcomes. To examine the extent and impact of these modifications on oncology service disruptions in Nigeria, we surveyed oncology patients across selected public and private cancer treatment centers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participating in the study were 15 tertiary cancer treatment centers across 12 Nigerian states. We recruited adult patients with cancer (18+ years) on active treatment to complete a self-administered survey on cancer care during COVID-19. We conducted descriptive and multivariate data analysis using Stata 16.1.

RESULTS

Respondents were (n = 1,072), female (65.7%), ages 18-49 years (50.3%), and married (80.7%). The top two cancers were breast and prostate. Overall, 17.3% of respondents reported disruptions to cancer care, and more than half (51.0%) reported difficulties accessing care. Changes in chemotherapy regimens or route of administration were reported in 8.4% of respondents. Odds for any disruption were highest for older patients, western states, patients with prostate cancer, and patients with two or more flu symptoms. Odds for radiotherapy cancellation were highest for older patients, those with prostate cancer, and those with medium service perception.

CONCLUSION

This study investigated COVID-19–influenced cancer treatment disruptions in Nigeria. Patients with cancer experienced significant disruptions to cancer care. Vulnerable patients are most likely to be negatively affected. Policies and strategies aimed at minimizing service disruptions while maintaining cancer patients' safety should be a priority for all health care institutions in the COVID-19 era.
Establishing Synoptic Cancer Pathology Reporting in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Nicaraguan Experience
Authors: Valverde L Darling , Reznichek Richard C. , Torres S Magdaly
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE

Cancer pathology reports have traditionally been narrative with limited reliable information. In high-income countries, synoptic format reporting has gradually been introduced to improve patient care and cancer registry input. We posited that introduction of synoptic style reporting was possible in Nicaragua and could serve as a model for other low- and middle-income countries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Department of Pathology, Hospital Escuela Oscar Danilo Rosales Argüello (HEODRA), León, Nicaragua, decided to introduce and implement synoptic reporting for all cancer cases beginning in 2018. All 10,012 histopathologic case reports issued by the department from January 1, 2018, through June 30, 2020, were reviewed. After excluding benign lesions, recurrent or metastatic tumors, endometrial biopsies or curettage, and primary cytologic specimens, 724 cases met the criteria for synoptic style reporting. The narrative format, previously used for all cases, was intentionally abandoned.

RESULTS

Of the 10,012 reports reviewed at HEODRA during the study period, synoptic-style reporting was used for all 724 cancer cases that met criteria for inclusion in the study. In addition, all elements were listed in the required order. Narrative format of reporting was not used for any of the reports.

CONCLUSION

Our experience in Nicaragua has shown that establishing synoptic-style cancer pathology reporting is achievable in a low- or middle-income country. Just as in high-income countries, a dedicated collaborative step-by-step conversion to synoptic reporting can lead to improvement in cancer patient care and quality of data for population-based registries.
A Novel Mobile Device-Based Navigation System for Placement of Posterior Spinal Fixation
Authors: Driver Joseph , Dorman John K. , Chi John H.
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND:

Spinal navigation technology has revolutionized the field of spine surgery. However, adoption has not been universal. Reasons include cost, interruption in surgical workflow, increased OR time, and potential implant incompatibility, among others. A technology that maintains performance but alleviates these drawbacks would be valuable. A mobile device-based navigation system has been developed which relies on the iOS platform and the gyroscopic-on-chip technology, therein to guide accurate placement of pedicle screws. This system maintains a minimal footprint and resolves difficulty with line-of-sight interruption and attention shift.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of this device in a preclinical setting.

METHODS:

A cadaver study was performed involving 13 surgeons placing 26 pedicle screws using the novel assistive technology. CT scans were then performed, and accuracy was assessed by designating each screw a Gertzbein–Robbins score. In addition, bench top table testing was performed. This consisted of 360 tests of both the accuracy of the device's pitch and roll, corresponding to the rotation about the device's x-axis and y-axis, respectively.

RESULTS:

The mean Gertzbein–Robbins score of the 26 screws placed in the cadaver study was 1.29. The mean deviation from centerline pedicle placement was 0.66 mm, with a standard deviation of 1.52 mm. The bench top study results included a mean pitch error of 0.17° + 0.09° and a mean roll error of 0.29 + 0.21.

CONCLUSION:

The novel mobile device-based navigation system for placement of pedicle screws presented here demonstrates high levels of accuracy and reliability in the preclinical setting.
Dlx1/2-dependent expression of Meis2 promotes neuronal fate determination in the mammalian striatum
Authors: Su Zihao , Wang Ziwu , Lindtner Susan , Yang Lin , Shang Zicong , Tian Yu , Guo Rongliang , You Yan , Zhou Wenhao , Rubenstein John L. , Yang Zhengang , Zhang Zhuangzhi
Published: February 2022

The striatum is a central regulator of behavior and motor function through the actions of D1 and D2 medium-sized spiny neurons (MSNs), which arise from a common lateral ganglionic eminence (LGE) progenitor. The molecular mechanisms of cell fate specification of these two neuronal subtypes are incompletely understood. Here, we found that deletion of murine Meis2, which is highly expressed in the LGE and derivatives, led to a large reduction in striatal MSNs due to a block in their differentiation. Meis2 directly binds to the Zfp503 and Six3 promoters and is required for their expression and specification of D1 and D2 MSNs, respectively. Finally, Meis2 expression is regulated by Dlx1/2 at least partially through the enhancer hs599 in the LGE subventricular zone. Overall, our findings define a pathway in the LGE whereby Dlx1/2 drives expression of Meis2, which subsequently promotes the fate determination of striatal D1 and D2 MSNs via Zfp503 and Six3.
Warm and cold temperatures have distinct germline stem cell lineage effects during Drosophila oogenesis
Authors: Gandara Ana Caroline P. , Drummond-Barbosa Daniela
Published: February 2022

Despite their medical and economic relevance, it remains largely unknown how suboptimal temperatures affect adult insect reproduction. Here, we report an in-depth analysis of how chronic adult exposure to suboptimal temperatures affects oogenesis using the model insect Drosophila melanogaster. In adult females maintained at 18°C (cold) or 29°C (warm), relative to females at the 25°C control temperature, egg production was reduced through distinct cellular mechanisms. Chronic 18°C exposure improved germline stem cell maintenance, survival of early germline cysts and oocyte quality, but reduced follicle growth with no obvious effect on vitellogenesis. By contrast, in females at 29°C, germline stem cell numbers and follicle growth were similar to those at 25°C, while early germline cyst death and degeneration of vitellogenic follicles were markedly increased and oocyte quality plummeted over time. Finally, we also show that these effects are largely independent of diet, male factors or canonical temperature sensors. These findings are relevant not only to cold-blooded organisms, which have limited thermoregulation, but also potentially to warm-blooded organisms, which are susceptible to hypothermia, heatstroke and fever.
High pCO2 does not alter the thermal plasticity of developing Pacific herring embryos during a marine heatwave
Authors: Murray Christopher S. , Klinger Terrie
Published: February 2022

Forage fish tend to respond strongly to environmental variability and therefore may be particularly sensitive to marine climate stressors. We used controlled laboratory experiments to assess the vulnerability of Pacific herring (Clupea pallasii) embryos to the combined effects of high pCO2 and a simulated marine heatwave. The two pCO2 treatments reflected current conditions (∼550 µatm) and a future extreme level (∼2,300 µatm). The dynamics of heatwave (i.e., rate of onset: ∼0.85°C d−1; maximum intensity: +4.4°C) were modeled from the most extreme events detected by a long-term regional temperature dataset. Simultaneous exposure to these potential stressors did not affect embryo survival. However, the heatwave did elicit significant metabolic effects that included higher rates of routine metabolism (Q10=1.15 - 1.72), growth (Q10=1.87), rate of development to hatch (Q10=3.01), and yolk consumption (Q10=3.21) as well as a significant reduction in production efficiency (-10.8%) and a three-fold increase in the rate of developmental anomalies. By contrast, high pCO2 conditions produced comparatively small effects to vital rates, including a significant increase in time to hatch (+0.88 d) and a reduction in routine metabolic rate (-6.3%) under the ambient temperature regime only. We found no evidence that high pCO2 increased routine metabolic rate at either temperature. These results indicate that Pacific herring embryos possess sufficient physiological plasticity to cope with extreme seawater acidification under optimal and heatwave temperature conditions, although lingering metabolic inefficiencies induced by the heatwave may lead to important carry-over effects in later life-stages.
Chickens have excellent sound localization ability
Authors: Krumm Bianca , Klump Georg M. , Köppl Christine , Beutelmann Rainer , Langemann Ulrike
Published: February 2022

The mechanisms of sound localization are actively debated, especially which cues are predominately used and why. Our study provides behavioural data in chickens (Gallus gallus) and relates these to estimates of the perceived physical cues. Sound localization acuity was quantified as the minimum audible angle (MAA) in azimuth. Pure-tone MAA was 12.3, 9.3, 8.9 and 14.5 deg for frequencies of 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 Hz, respectively. Broadband-noise MAA was 12.2 deg, which indicates excellent behavioural acuity. We determined ‘external cues’ from head-related transfer functions of chickens. These were used to derive ‘internal cues’, taking into account published data on the effect of the coupled middle ears. Our estimates of the internal cues indicate that chickens likely relied on interaural time difference cues alone at low frequencies of 500 and 1000 Hz, whereas at 2000 and 4000 Hz, interaural level differences may be the dominant cue.
Mitochondrial and Metabolic Adaptations to Exercise-Induced Fluid Shear Stress in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Hong Soon-Gook , Shin Junchul , Aldokhayyil Maitha , Brown Michael David , Park Joon-Young
Published: February 2022

Recent studies have greatly advanced our understanding of the central role of mitochondria on endothelial function. Here, we propose a hypothesis that unidirectional laminar (pulsatile) flow and disturbed laminar (oscillatory) flow may differentially modulate mitochondrial phenotypes in the context of their bioenergetic, signaling, and biosynthetic functions, providing novel insights into subcellular mechanisms underlying how exercise benefits the improvement of vascular health.
The benefit of tissue sealant on urethroplasty in hypospadias patients – A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Siregar Safendra , Steven Steven , Mustafa Akhmad
Published: February 2022

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 complications5.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. UCF 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.
Framing and understanding the whole aspect of oral sex from social and health perspective: a narrative review
Authors: Pakpahan Cennikon , Darmadi Darmadi , Agustinus Agustinus , Rezano Andri
Published: February 2022

Since thousands of years ago, oral sex has become part of sexual behavior among humans. Oral sex is considered taboo. Its taboo does not lie in the behavior, but its expression is deemed inappropriate. As technology becomes more sophisticated, human rights also stand out, leading to the disclosure of the practice in the 21st century. The oral sex that is discussed on a large scale in media encourages people to express it as feedback whether within right or not. It all depends on the value of each people. We found that this sexual behavior is found everywhere regardless of religion, culture, and race.

Pop culture influences this behavior so much, it can be seen from music, movies, and television programs that provoke oral sex. Many motivations underlying this behavior include getting sexual pleasure for the sake of living well-being. But it is undeniable that this behavior is still controversial. It could be at risk of causing disease and, on the other hand, is reported to provide many benefits.

 According to our theory, oral sex is not a new behavior crossing boundaries. It is just an old behavior that surfaces because of the factors that support it. This behavior, which is still considered taboo, has its disadvantages such as sexually transmitted disease but has also benefits such as preventing preeclampsia.
Sustainability of mangrove forest management in the former bauxite mining area on Bintan Island
Authors: Azizah Diana , Hamidy Rasoel , Mubarak . , Efriyeldi . , Said Raza’i Tengku , Muzammil Wahyu , Pardi Hilfi
Published: February 2022

Background : The bauxite mining area on Bintan Island continues to expand into the mangrove forest area. Mangrove forests have ecological, economic, and social importance, which must be managed accordingly to maintain their sustainability. This research was conducted to examine the sustainability of mangrove forest management in the former bauxite mining area on Bintan Island.                                                         Methods: The approach used is Multi Dimensional Scaling- Rapid Appraisal for Sustainability through the modified Rapfish ordinance software technique for the Mangrove Ecosystem. The type of data used is quantitative, covering five dimensions of sustainability, namely ecological, economic, social, legal and institutional as well as technology.                                                                                                        Results: The results showed that the sustainability index status of the ecological, social, legal and institutional dimensions was quite sustainable, while the sustainability index of the economic dimension was unsustainable, and the technological dimension was less sustainable. Attributes of levers that are sensitive to the sustainability of mangrove forest management are: 1) Mangrove density, 2) Substrate fraction, 3) sedimentation, 4) Mangrove importance index, 5) Bio-concentration factor, 6) Benefit value direct, 7) Indirect benefit value, 8) Dependence on mangrove forest as a source of livelihood, 9) Corporate Social Responsibility funding support, 10) Community income, 11) Community health level, 12) Community perception, 13) Legality of mangrove area and mining, 14) Pollution monitoring technology in ex-mining areas and 15) Mangrove rehabilitation technology.                                                                                          Conclusions:The status of the mangrove forest sustainability index on Bintan Island is quite good. the economic and technological dimensions can be upgraded to sustainable status by carrying out management that is more focused on the lever attributes of the ecological, social, legal and institutional dimensions.
Association of women’s literacy and children’s mortality rate among countries in southeast Asia 2015-2019: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Satria Fauzi Budi , Lubis Rahayu , Hsu Yi-Hsin Elsa , Iqbal Usman
Published: February 2022

Background: Women’s literacy is often associated with the health status of family members, especially children. Unfortunately, in some regions of Southeast Asia, the rates of women’s literacy are still very low, and in these areas, children’s mortality rates are also very high. This study aims to identify the association of women's literacy and children’s mortality rates among countries in the Southeast Asian region from 2015 to 2019.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, children’s mortality rates were defined as mortality rates in newborns and under-fives. Besides women’s literacy (WL), we also assessed the Human Development Index (HDI), Freedom Status (FS), Government Effectiveness (GE), and the proportion of births assisted by skilled health staff (BASHS) as the independent variables in this study. First, we describe the profiles of WL as well as newborn and under-five mortality rates among 11 countries in Southeast Asia from 2015 to 2019, and then we assess the correlations.

Results: Between 2015 to 2019, Myanmar, Lao, and Timor-Leste had the highest child mortality rates. In addition, these four countries were the countries with the lowest WL rates compared to other countries. Children’s mortality rates were significantly associated with WL, GE, HDI, and BASHS. Meanwhile, this study found that the FS of a country was not significantly associated with the children’s mortality rate of countries in the Southeast Asia region.

Conclusion: This study found that there’s an indication that the better the WL rate, as well as the governance, the HDI, and maternity services in a country, the lower its children’s mortality rates. Therefore, improvement in multiple sectors such as governance, economy, health system, education, and gender equality is required to help countries in this region achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals target by 2030.
Runcer-Necromancer: a method to rescue data from an interrupted run on MGISEQ-2000
Authors: Pavlova Anna , Belova Vera , Afasizhev Robert , Bulusheva Irina , Rebrikov Denis , Korostin Dmitriy
Published: February 2022

During the sequencing process, problems can occur with any device, including the MGISEQ-2000 (DNBSEQ-G400) platform. We encountered a power outage that resulted in a temporary shutdown of a sequencer in the middle of the run. Since barcode reading in MGISEQ-2000 takes place at the end of the run, it was impossible to use non-demultiplexed raw data. We decided to completely use up the same cartridge with reagents and flow cell loaded with DNB and started a new run in a shortened custom mode. We figured out how the MGISEQ-2000 converts preliminary data in .cal format into .fastq files and wrote a script named “Runcer-Necromacer” for merging .fastq files based on the analysis of their headers (available online: https://github.com/genomecenter/runcer-necromancer). Read merging proved to be possible because the MGISEQ-2000 flow cell has a patterned structure and each DNB has invariable coordinates on it, regardless of its position on the flow cell stage. We demonstrated the correctness of data merging by comparing sample analysis results with previously obtained .fastq files for them. Thus, we confirmed that it is possible to restart the device and save both parts of the interrupted run.
A survey of innovation management among persons with disabilities in Malaysia
Authors: Yee Yen Yuen , Wu Jian Yong Eddie , Teoh Ming Yen Wendy
Published: February 2022

Background: As Malaysia struggles with the battle to retain talented workers, the retention of persons with disabilities (PWDs) remains a major challenge in innovation management. Malaysia currently has the lowest retention of PWDs in innovation management in The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The purpose of this study is to develop a unique framework to enhance the inclusion of PWDs in Malaysia. 

Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to 200 PWDs in the central region of Malaysia.  

Results: Based on the results of this research, four crucial variables (salary, compensation, career advancement and reward management) contributed to the lack of involvement in innovation management among PWDs in Malaysia. 

Conclusions: This study only focuses on 200 PWDs in Malaysia. Despite the fact that PWDs’ involvement in innovation management is the lowest, there is a lack of research initiative and practitioner commitment to address this issue. Serving as preliminary research in Malaysia, this study develops a unique framework to fill the gap.