bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arterial stiffness acute changes following aerobic exercise in males with and without hypertension
Authors: Zang Yiran , Ding Xiong , Zhao Mao Xiang , Zhang Xiaoling , Zhang Li , Wu Shouling , Sun Lixia
Published: March 2022

While regular exercise exposure is considered the most effective therapy to reduce arterial stiffness, the effect of acute exercise training on arterial stiffness in adults with different blood pressure (BP) levels remains unclear. The authors aimed to investigate the effects of acute aerobic exercise on arterial stiffness in male with different BP levels. This cross‐sectional study utilized data for 1200 males aged 20–49 years from the Kailuan study cohort who participated in the fifth National Fitness Monitoring project. A total of 940 participants (621 in the non‐hypertensive group and 319 in the hypertensive group) aged 36.82 ± 7.76 who completed a twice‐quantitative cycle ergometer exercise and measure of brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) at both the baseline and immediately after exercise were included in this study. The baPWV was decreased after acute aerobic exercise in the non‐hypertension and hypertension groups (Δ 40.29 [95% confidence interval [CI], −47.72 to −32.86] vs. Δ20.45 [95% CI, −31.32 to −9.58] cm/s). Participants without hypertension showed a greater decrease in baPWV (Δ 19.84 [95% CI, −33.83 to −5.84] cm/s) than participants with hypertension. Aerobic exercise had an acute positive effect on arterial stiffness. This study provides evidence of a greater reduction in arterial stiffness in individuals without hypertension than in those with hypertension.
Rheological and textural properties of dough made out of de‐oiled soya flour with application of different binding agents
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ayan , Kumar Devesh , Badwaik Laxmikant S.
Published: March 2022

The present study was undertaken to check the suitability of by‐products of the soyabean oil industry, that is, de‐oiled soya cake for the development of soya flour dough, which could be utilized by the snack industry. As soya lacks gluten protein, which acts as a natural binder, different binding agents such as xanthan gum, guar gum, psyllium husk, and whey were used to get the desired malleable property, and their effect on the rheological and textural properties of soya flour dough was studied. The water/gel absorption capacity of de‐oiled soy flour dough was also investigated. The intake of gel in the case of guar gum and psyllium husk was recorded as 75.0 and 77.5 ml/100 g respectively. Whereas, in the case of xanthan gum, whey, and control, the water absorption by the dough was 117.0, 62.5, and 88.0 ml/100 g, respectively. The loss modulus (G″) value in the case of psyllium husk (56,614–53,426 Pa) aided dough is lower than the control (85,888–156,000 Pa) and other binding agents throughout the frequency range. This suggests that the energy required for the formulation of the sheet from the dough will be minimal compared with others. The dough extensibility was also studied and it was found that the extensibility of psyllium husk‐aided soy flour dough was maximum (7.5 ± 0.4 mm) with a minimum application of resistive force (0.71 ± 0.01 N) as compared to control. The dough made with the addition of psyllium husk was found to be most suitable considering the extensibility and malleability.

Practical Applications

Conventional soya‐based snack products are generally developed from dough that is fortified using cereals and pulses. However, there are limited studies available that focus on the development of dough providing only protein enrichment. This study will be helpful for the effective utilization of de‐oiled soya flour, which is a by‐product of the soybean oil industry, for the development of the dough. As soya lacks gluten protein, the development of dough with only soya flour and water is very difficult and the existing technology of extrusion for making such products is not cost‐effective. Hence, this study provides the alternative way for dough development with the application of different binding agents, ensuring the presence of soya as the basic ingredient in the dough, rather than one of the many ingredients. As psyllium husk exhibits better sheeting properties compared to other binding agents, the dough can be useful for developing different soy‐based snack products with less energy dissipation. Additionally, the present study also provides an alternative solution for developing gluten‐free products because of the increase in the number of people suffering from celiac disease.
Undertaking a research project improves confidence in research skills among student dietitians
Authors: Whelan Kevin , Castelli Kate R. , Trizio Camilla , Howard Oliver , Thomas Jane E. , Madden Angela M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Research is a cornerstone of evidence‐based dietetic practice. Research skills are often taught at university through experiential learning during a final‐year research project. The present study aimed to investigate attitudes towards research and confidence in research skills among student dietitians before and after a research project.

Methods

A questionnaire survey of student dietitians’ attitudes to research and confidence in research skills was undertaken before and after completing a research project at two universities in London, UK. Dichotomous data were compared before and after the research project using a McNemar's test. Factors associated with ‘high confidence’ or ‘improved confidence’ in overall research skills at the end of the research project were investigated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

In total, 160 student dietitians completed a questionnaire before and after their research project. The majority had positive attitudes to research both before and after their research project. There was an increase in numbers with ‘high confidence’ in overall research skills before (13; 8.1%) and after (79; 49.4%) the research project (p < 0.001), and 113 (70.6%) reported ‘improved confidence’ in overall research skills. The only factor associated with ‘high confidence’ in overall research skills was having ‘high levels of involvement in the overall research process’ (odds ratio = 6.13, 95% confidence interval = 2.03–18.49, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Student dietitians have positive attitudes towards research and undertaking a research project significantly improves confidence in their research skills. A higher level of involvement in the research project is the single most significant factor associated with high confidence in research skills.
Development and preliminary testing of the cancer‐related fatigue comprehensive assessment scale in cancer survivors
Authors: Li Shuaini , Gao Yating , Lin Ying , Wu Wanying , Fang Qunying , Ni Xiaosha , Zhou Yao , Hong Meirong , Zhang Ruolin , Lou Yan
Published: March 2022

Background

Tailored management of cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) is important for effective coping; however, it has been hindered by the lack of a comprehensive tool that assesses both symptoms and treatable influencing factors.

Aims and Objectives

The aim was to develop a cancer‐related fatigue comprehensive assessment scale (CRF‐CAS) and assess its psychometric properties.

Design

This was a mixed‐method study.

Methods

The study included two phases which were conducted in Zhejiang Province, China. In phase one, a literature search, brainstorming sessions, Delphi studies, cognitive interviews and a pilot study were conducted to construct and revise CRF‐CAS indicators. In phase two, a questionnaire‐based survey was conducted among cancer survivors. Item analysis was used to select and optimize indicators. Cronbach's α was calculated for reliability analysis. Validity analysis included concurrent validity and structural validity.

Results

A 93‐item tool was initially constructed. Phase one ended with revision and optimization. The preliminary scale included five dimensions (CRF symptoms, physical activity, cognitive‐emotional status, sleep status, nutritional status) and 30 items. The mean item‐content validity index (I‐CVI) and scale‐level CVI universal agreement (S‐CVI/UA) were .98, and the adjusted mean values of Kappa for indicators ranged from .91–1, as evaluated by the expert group. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the CRF‐CAS and criterion scales ranged from .337–.862. Cronbach's α coefficient ranged from .624–.728. Respondents agreed that the scale was acceptable for administration and that it contributed to decision‐making in fatigue management. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) indicated that the CRF‐CAS fit well.

Conclusions

The construction process of the CRF‐CAS, involving panel discussion and expert and participant evaluations, was shown to be scientific and feasible. The CRF‐CAS had relatively good validity and reliability in version 5 of its preliminary scale, which requires further improvement in future studies.
Concentration of power at the editorial boards of economics journals
Authors: Ductor Lorenzo , Visser Bauke
Published: March 2022

Using a unique dataset covering 106 economics journals over the period 1990–2011, we document trends in the incidence of multiple positions, editorial duration and institutional background for 6192 board members. We put these figures into perspective using the literature on boards of directors and measures of market concentration. The picture that emerges is of a discipline with a high concentration of institutional and individual power, especially at the more prestigious journals. Evidence suggests this indeed matters: there is a strong negative association between editorial duration and journal impact.
Rhetoric, Risk, and Investment: Letting the Numbers Speak for Themselves
Authors: McLeod Michael S. , Sears Joshua B. , Chandler Gaylen N. , Payne G. Tyge , Brigham Keith H.
Published: March 2022

It is well established that words matter. Yet, there remains much that we do not understand about when and how words are best utilized in various business contexts. This study uses a mediation model to examine how investment risk influences the choice of different rhetorical frames – logos (logic), pathos (emotion), and ethos (character) – in the initial public offering (IPO) prospectus, and subsequently how rhetoric influences investment performance. We apply rhetorical theory to describe how authors use different amalgamations of words to frame messages to persuade audiences to engage in specific actions. Two key mechanisms of rhetorical theory that we investigate and build upon in this study are: 1) rhetoric reflects an author’s perspective of a context (i.e., perspective of the investment risk) and 2) the process through which cognitive resource limitations of authors and audiences influence outcomes. Specifically, we question whether these two mechanisms create a paradoxical situation where rhetoric that reflects the author’s perspective is not always the most effective approach given cognitive resource limitations. Based on a sample of 644 IPO firms, we find that using words that reflect the author’s perspective is not always the most persuasive. We posit that this is because investment authors fail to account for other communicative symbols (such as data and financial information) that can fulfill the role of more logic‐based rhetorical frames, thereby creating cognitive resource slack.
Disparities in oxygen saturation and hypoxic burden levels in obstructive sleep apnoea patient’s response to oral appliance treatment
Authors: Park Ji Woon , Almeida Fernanda R.
Published: March 2022

Background

Oxygen saturation indices show a strong correlation with long‐term health outcomes. Nonetheless, evidence on the relationship between reduction in respiratory events and increase in oxygenation levels following oral appliance (OA) treatment is scarce.

Objectives

To verify the relationship between reduction in the apnoea‐hypopnoea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation levels following OA treatment, we have conducted an evaluation of polysomnography (PSG) and clinical parameters associated with the improvement of oxygen desaturation.

Methods

OSA patients (n = 48) who received an OA and had pre‐ and post‐treatment PSG were classified into three responder groups according to the change in AHI and min O2 post‐treatment: responderAHIonly (decrease in AHI of ≥50% but increase in min O2 level of <4% or decrease); responderMinO2only (increase in min O2 level of ≥4% but decrease in AHI <50% or increase) and responderCongruous (decrease in AHI of ≥50% and increase in min O2 level of ≥4%). Various demographic and PSG variables were statistically compared among groups.

Results

There were 26 (54.17%) responderAHIonly, 9 (18.75%) responderMinO2only and 13 (27.08%) responderCongruous. Pre‐treatment min O2 was significantly lower in responderMinO2only. A higher pre‐treatment min O2 showed a significant correlation with a smaller amount of change in mean O2 (r = −.486) and min O2 (r = −.764) with treatment. Pre‐treatment min O2 showed the strongest ability to predict those who would show a ≥4% min O2 increase following treatment.

Conclusion

Certain patients do not show sufficient decrease in hypoxaemia in spite of the improvement in AHI. Pre‐treatment min O2 should be considered in OA treatment planning regarding its close relation to improvements in oxygenation levels with treatment.
Detection of blood‐brain barrier dysfunction using advanced imaging methods to predict seizures in dogs with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin
Authors: Hanael Erez , Baruch Shelly , Chai Orit , Nir Zohar , Rapoport Kira , Ruggeri Marco , Eizenberg Itzhak , Peery Dana , Friedman Alon , Shamir Merav H.
Published: March 2022

Background

The blood‐brain barrier (BBB), which separates the intravascular and neuropil compartments, characterizes the vascular bed of the brain and is essential for its proper function. Recent advances in imaging techniques have driven the development of methods for quantitative assessment of BBB permeability.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Permeability of the BBB can be assessed quantitatively in dogs with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) and its status is associated with the occurrence of seizures.

Animals

Forty dogs with MUO and 12 dogs without MUO.

Methods

Retrospective, prospective cohort study. Both dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) and subtraction enhancement analysis (SEA) methods were used to evaluate of BBB permeability in affected (DCE, n = 8; SEA, n = 32) and control dogs (DCE, n = 6; SEA, n = 6). Association between BBB dysfunction (BBBD) score and clinical characteristics was examined. In brain regions where BBBD was identified by DCE or SEA magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis, immunofluorescent staining for albumin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule, and phosphorylated mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2 were performed to detect albumin extravasation, reactive astrocytes, activated microglia, and transforming growth factor beta signaling, respectively.

Results

Dogs with BBBD had significantly higher seizure prevalence (72% vs 19%; P = .01) when compared to MUO dogs with no BBBD. The addition of SEA to routine MRI evaluation increased the identification rate of brain pathology in dogs with MUO from 50% to 72%.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Imaging‐based assessment of BBB integrity has the potential to predict risk of seizures in dogs with MUO.
Rules of use
Authors: Reiland Indrek
Published: March 2022

In the middle of the 20th century, it was a common Wittgenstein‐inspired idea in philosophy that for a linguistic expression to have a meaning is for it to be governed by a rule of use. Nowadays this idea is widely taken to be mysterious, inconsistent with “truth‐conditional semantics,” and subject to the Frege–Geach problem. In this article, I reinvigorate the idea by sketching the rule‐governance view of the nature of linguistic meaningfulness, showing that it is not subject to the two problems, explaining its lasting appeal to philosophers from Strawson to Kaplan, and why we should find it continually attractive.
Extracellular tau oligomers affect extracellular glutamate handling by astrocytes through downregulation of GLT‐1 expression and impairment of NKA1A2 function
Authors: Li Puma Domenica Donatella , Ripoli Cristian , Puliatti Giulia , Pastore Francesco , Lazzarino Giacomo , Tavazzi Barbara , Arancio Ottavio , Piacentini Roberto , Grassi Claudio
Published: March 2022

Aims

Several studies reported that astrocytes support neuronal communication by the release of gliotransmitters, including ATP and glutamate. Astrocytes also play a fundamental role in buffering extracellular glutamate in the synaptic cleft, thus limiting the risk of excitotoxicity in neurons. We previously demonstrated that extracellular tau oligomers (ex‐oTau), by specifically targeting astrocytes, affect glutamate‐dependent synaptic transmission via a reduction in gliotransmitter release. The aim of this work was to determine if ex‐oTau also impair the ability of astrocytes to uptake extracellular glutamate, thus further contributing to ex‐oTau‐dependent neuronal dysfunction.

Methods

Primary cultures of astrocytes and organotypic brain slices were exposed to ex‐oTau (200 nM) for 1 h. Extracellular glutamate buffering by astrocytes was studied by: Na+ imaging; electrophysiological recordings; high‐performance liquid chromatography; Western blot and immunofluorescence. Experimental paradigms avoiding ex‐oTau internalisation (i.e. heparin pre‐treatment and amyloid precursor protein knockout astrocytes) were used to dissect intracellular vs extracellular effects of oTau.

Results

Ex‐oTau uploading in astrocytes significantly affected glutamate‐transporter‐1 expression and function, thus impinging on glutamate buffering activity. Ex‐oTau also reduced Na‐K‐ATPase activity because of pump mislocalisation on the plasma membrane, with no significant changes in expression. This effect was independent of oTau internalisation and it caused Na+ overload and membrane depolarisation in ex‐oTau‐targeted astrocytes.

Conclusions

Ex‐oTau exerted a complex action on astrocytes, at both intracellular and extracellular levels. The net effect was dysregulated glutamate signalling in terms of both release and uptake that relied on reduced expression of glutamate‐transporter‐1, altered function and localisation of NKA1A1, and NKA1A2. Consequently, Na+ gradients and all Na+‐dependent transports were affected.
Safety concern with electrical cardioversion of persistent atrial fibrillation with slow ventricular response
Authors: Park Jino , Seol Sang‐Hoon , Kim Dong‐Kie , Kim Seunghwan , Song Yeo‐Jeong , Kim Doo‐Il , Kim Ki‐Hun
Published: March 2022

Rhythm control strategies in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) can bring many clinical benefits. However, there is still uncertainty regarding selection of the optimal rhythm control strategy for persistent AF. Chronicity, substrate alteration, and underlying bradyarrhythmias could influence the clinical outcomes. Current guidelines do not provide a distinct recommendation for electrical cardioversion (ECV) in patients with AF with a slow ventricular response (SVR). We present two cases of sudden cardiac arrest due to sustained ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation after ECV of persistent AF with SVR.
The embedded flexibility of Nordic labor market models under pressure from EU‐induced dualization—The case of posted work in Denmark and Sweden
Authors: Arnholtz Jens
Published: March 2022

While many coordinated market economies have responded to internationalization by regulation that creates dualization between insiders and outsiders, the Nordic countries have opted for an embedded flexibilization in which strong unions and cooperative employers have combined flexibility and equality. However, in recent years, the Nordic countries have come under pressure from an EU‐induced dualization that has institutionalized mobile low‐wage workers as an outside group. This article presents case studies of how Denmark and Sweden have responded to these challenges. While political processes have been different in the two countries, pressure from EU regulation and changes in employers' incentive to compromise implies that there is now a specific category of low‐wage workers in both countries' otherwise egalitarian labor markets. The article, thus, contributes to the literature on dualization by highlighting the pressure coming from EU regulation rather than national policy.
Treatment through a preoperative anemia clinic is associated with a reduction in perioperative red blood cell transfusion in patients undergoing orthopedic and gynecologic surgery
Authors: Guinn Nicole R. , Fuller Matt , Murray Sutton , Aronson Solomon ,   the Duke Perioperative Enhancement Team (POET)
Published: March 2022

Background

Preoperative anemia is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and risk of transfusion. Treatment through a preoperative anemia clinic (PAC) may improve outcomes.

Study Design and Methods

Adult patients undergoing elective orthopedic and gynecologic surgery with preoperative anemia were identified and referred for hemoglobin optimization with iron and/or erythropoietin from a single‐site academic health center. Treated patients were propensity matched to untreated controls and compared on outcomes of erythrocyte transfusion, length of stay (LOS), and readmission. Changes in hemoglobin relative to treatment time before surgery were also measured in the treated cohort.

Results

One thousand three hundred thirty‐two patients were evaluated between July 2015 and March 2021, of which 161 underwent optimization through the PAC. After propensity matching, 127 (98 orthopedic and 29 gynecology) PAC‐treated patients were compared to 127 (98 orthopedic and 29 gynecology) control patients who did not undergo treatment. The primary outcome of perioperative transfusion was significantly lower in treated patients compared with matched controls (12.60% vs. 26.77%, p = .005). A lower LOS was demonstrated in the gynecologic PAC subgroup (2.2 [1.5, 2.4] vs. 3.1 [2.2, 3.4], p = .002). Each day of treatment time before surgery was associated with an increase of 0.040 g/dL hemoglobin (p < .001) until 65 days, after which further time did not increase hemoglobin.

Conclusion

Treatment through a preoperative anemia clinic is associated with a reduction in perioperative transfusion and possible reduction in LOS and readmission compared with matched controls. Additionally, treatment time before surgery is correlated with a greater increase in hemoglobin up until 2 months prior to surgery.
Antibodies against biotin‐labeled red blood cells can shorten posttransfusion survival
Authors: Mock Donald M. , Stowell Sean R. , Franco Robert S. , Kyosseva Svetlana V. , Nalbant Demet , Schmidt Robert L. , Cress Gretchen A. , Strauss Ronald G. , Cancelas José A. , von Goetz Melissa , North Anne K. , Widness John A.
Published: March 2022

Background

In hematologic and transfusion medicine research, measurement of red blood cell (RBC) in vivo kinetics must be safe and accurate. Recent reports indicate use of biotin‐labeled RBC (BioRBC) to determine red cell survival (RCS) offers substantial advantages over 51Cr and other labeling methods. Occasional induction of BioRBC antibodies has been reported.

Study Design and Methods

To investigate the causes and consequences of BioRBC immunization, we reexposed three previously immunized adults to BioRBC and evaluated the safety, antibody emergence, and RCS of BioRBC.

Results

BioRBC re‐exposure caused an anamnestic increase of plasma BioRBC antibodies at 5–7 days; all were subclass IgG1 and neutralized by biotinylated albumin, thus indicating structural specificity for the biotin epitope. Concurrently, specific antibody binding to BioRBC was observed in each subject. As biotin label density increased, the proportion of BioRBC that bound increased antibody also increased; the latter was associated with proportional accelerated removal of BioRBC labeled at density 6 μg/mL. In contrast, only one of three subjects exhibited accelerated removal of BioRBC density 2 μg/mL. No adverse clinical or laboratory events were observed. Among three control subjects who did not develop BioRBC antibodies following initial BioRBC exposure, re‐exposure induced neither antibody emergence nor accelerated BioRBC removal.

Discussion

We conclude re‐exposure of immunized subjects to BioRBC can induce anamnestic antibody response that can cause an underestimation of RCS. To minimize chances of antibody induction and underestimation of RCS, we recommend an initial BioRBC exposure volume of ≤10 mL and label densities of ≤18 μg/mL.
Can the neutrophil count from hepatic fine‐needle aspirate cytology be used to diagnose hepatitis in dogs? A pilot study
Authors: Gardner Rachel Helen , Castillo Daniel , Constantino‐Casas Fernando , Williams Tim L.
Published: March 2022

Background

The cytologic diagnosis of inflammation on canine hepatic aspirates can be confounded by neutrophilic infiltrates in the liver of dogs with nodular regeneration, by extramedullary hematopoiesis, and by marked blood contamination.

Objectives

We aimed to assess the association between neutrophil counts on hepatic cytology and the histopathologic diagnosis in dogs with hepatitis and non‐inflammatory hepatopathy. We also sought to determine a cut‐off value for the cytologic diagnosis of hepatitis.

Methods

In a retrospective blinded pilot study, three observers independently reviewed hepatic aspirates that had corresponding histopathologic examinations performed within 2 days. The number of neutrophils per 200 hepatocytes was determined and averaged among observers. Only neutrophils within or directly in contact with a cluster of ≥5 hepatocytes were counted, and only intact hepatocytes within an approximate monolayer were included. Data are presented as the median (range), and the Mann‐Whitney U test is used to make comparisons between groups.

Results

Eighteen cases were included (13 hepatitis and five vacuolar hepatopathy). Aspirates with a histopathologic diagnosis of hepatitis had increased numbers of neutrophils compared with those of vacuolar hepatopathy (7.7 [0.3‐18.3] vs 3.0 [1.0‐5.3]; P = .038). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that ≥6 neutrophils were 61.5% (CI 31.6%‐86.1%) sensitive and 100% (CI 47.8%‐100%) specific for identifying hepatitis.

Conclusions

Liver aspirates from hepatitis cases have a higher number of neutrophils on cytology compared with those from vacuolar hepatopathy; however, larger studies, including those with dogs with other liver pathologies, are required. Identification of six or more neutrophils per 200 hepatocytes is highly suggestive of hepatitis.
Evolutionary divergence of the smooth snake (Serpentes, Colubridae): The role of the Balkans and Anatolia
Authors: Stratakis Manos , Koutmanis Iraklis , Ilgaz Çetin , Jablonski Daniel , Kukushkin Oleg V. , Crnobrnja‐Isailovic Jelka , Carretero Miguel A. , Liuzzi Cristiano , Kumlutaş Yusuf , Lymberakis Petros , Poulakakis Nikos
Published: March 2022

The smooth snakeCoronella austriaca(Laurenti, 1768) is distributed across the western Palearctic throughout north‐central, southern Europe and western Asia. So far, only few phylogenetic studies, based on mitochondrial DNA, have been carried out on this species focusing mainly on the Iberian Peninsula and northern Europe, leaving unstudied some of important areas of its distribution. This study aims to cover this gap and to explore the phylogenetic relationships between the populations of in the Eastern Mediterranean and to detect possible historical refugia. With this objective, total genomic DNA was extracted from samples originated from the Balkans, Anatolia and a large part of Europe. Two mitochondrial (cytb, 16S) and six nuclear (BDNF, NKTR, RAG1, RAG2, MC1R and PRLR) markers were combined for phylogenetic and chronophylogenetic analyses. The different analyses confirmed previous phylogeographic hypothesis showing the presence of several well‐supported clades distributed in Anatolia, Central Europe, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, the Balkans and the Iberian Peninsula and cryptic diversity within Anatolia and the Balkans. Moreover, dating analysis confirmed the diversification of the species during the Pleistocene, as well as the role of the Southern Balkans and Anatolia region as refugia during this period.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Young James
Published: March 2022

International Journal of Social Science Studies (IJSSS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether IJSSS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 10, Number 2Abdul Azim Akhtar, Independent Academic & Researcher, Delhi, IndiaAntónio Calha, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, PortugalBishnu Prasad Dahal, Tribhuvan University, NepalDipankar Chatterjee, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda University, IndiaElena Montanari, Politecnico Di Milano, ItalyEncarnación ABAD ARENAS, National University of Distance Education (UNED), SpainFahri ÖZSUNGUR, Adana Science and Technology University, TurkeyFroilan Mobo, Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, PhilippinesHao Liu, Beijing Normal University, ChinaJibrin Ubale Yahaya, National Open University of Nigeria NOUN, NigeriaJulia M. Mack, Gannon University, USALing Wei, University of International Business and Economics, ChinaMd. Nasir Uddin, Prime Minister’s Office, BangladeshMei-Ling Lin, National Open University, TaiwanMohamed Mehdi Jelassi, IHEC Carthage, TunisiaMOHD NORAZMI BIN NORDIN, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, MalaysiaNAZIAH ABD. KADIR, Universiti Selangor, MalaysiaPeriyasami Anbarasan, Indian Institute of technology Delhi, IndiaRemigiusz Kijak, "University of Warsaw", PolandRonaldo R. Larioque, NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, PhilippinesSana Ali, Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, PakistanTariq Tawfeeq Yousif Alabdullah, University of Basrah, IraqYanzhe Zhang, Jilin University, China, China/AustraliaYusramizza Md Isa, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Malaysia  James YoungEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of International Journal of Social Science StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://ijsss.redfame.com
MICROTRABALHO E INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL: DESAFIOS À FRUIÇÃO DA DIGNIDADE HUMANA EM MEIO À APRENDIZAGEM DE MÁQUINA
Authors: Fincato Denise Pires , Lemonje Julise Carolina
Published: March 2022

O artigo trata do tema das plataformas de microtrabalho que ofertam serviços para o desenvolvimento e aperfeiçoamento da inteligência artificial. Busca-se, a partir das condições de trabalho e características descritas pela literatura científica, articular o cenário do microtrabalho à concretização do princípio e valor dignidade humana nesse contexto. Assim, por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica, do método de abordagem hipotético-dedutivo e da interpretação sociológica, tecem-se considerações sobre os impactos do microtrabalho na fruição da dignidade humana. Para isso, o artigo inicia com a apresentação de noções conceituais acerca do trabalho em plataformas digitais para, em seguida, apontar as principais características do microtrabalho e sua relação com o desenvolvimento de inteligência artificial. Após, articula-se o impacto das condições mapeadas na concretização da dignidade humana.  Conclui-se que a tendência a ocultar a existência de microtarefas desempenhadas por humanos na produção de inteligência artificial, assim como a gestão desta atividade humana a partir de uma lógica de máquina, enseja a instrumentalização dos trabalhadores e restrições à autonomia do microtrabalhador, que se vê dissociado do valor social do seu trabalho e desconhece elementos essenciais da atividade desempenhada.
O USO DA INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL NA REPERCUSSÃO GERAL: DESAFIOS TEÓRICOS E ÉTICOS
Authors: Morais Fausto Santos de
Published: March 2022

O Supremo Tribunal Federal desenvolveu com inteligência artificial o programa Victor para identificar recursos e classificá-los a temas de repercussão geral já definidos pelo tribunal. O programa computacional se destaca pela sua eficiência, contribuindo para a celeridade processual e a consistência decisória de acordo com a premissa normativa definida, leia-se, a tese da repercussão geral. De outro lado, questões teóricas e éticas emergem também do seu uso. Teoricamente, a aplicação da repercussão geral pode apresentar o mesmo problema que o precedente, atraindo o risco da hipernormatização artificial com a sobrepadronização fática ou normativa. No campo da ética, surge a questão epistêmica sobre a automatização na aplicação da repercussão geral. Isso exige ações práticas e normativas para contornar os problemas aqui nominados como de raciocínio jurídico e a da responsabilidade do agente.
Combinando Bibliotecas de Anúncios com Checagem de Fatos para Aumentar a Transparência sobre a Desinformação
Authors: Hartmann Ivar Alberto
Published: March 2022

Ainda que muitas pessoas associem fake news a políticos, um componente fundamental da atual crise de desinformação ameaçando democracias é o fenômeno de sites que produzem desinformação por razões comerciais. Pessoas e organizações sem escrúpulos lucram emulando o estilo de comunicação de veículos de imprensa tradicionais, mas sem o esforço para cumprir diretrizes jornalísticas básicas na produção de informação verídica. A razão pela qual esse modelo de negócios é viável é que uma parcela crescente do dinheiro para anúncios é alocada por algoritmos. Veículos obscuros não atrairiam receita substancial de propaganda se as empresas estivessem tomando decisões individualizadas sobre onde colocar seus anúncios. Mas o micro direcionamento removeu o incentivo dos anunciantes de associar sua marca somente a fontes de notícias com boa reputação. Em substituição ao antigo modelo, agora as empresas anunciantes recebem uma oferta de grupos demográficos cuidadosamente demarcados e tomam decisões baseadas em quem atingir com a propaganda, em vez de decisões sobre qual site patrocinar. Decisões automatizadas de alocação de anúncios podem ser obscuras até para os próprios anunciantes. Este artigo adota metodologia teórica para identificar uma possível solução para mitigar o problema. O resultado encontrado é de que uma resposta regulatória que criasse mais transparência para os anúncios algorítmicos, assim realinhando os incentivos dos anunciantes, negaria receita de propaganda a publicadores de desinformação prejudicial. A melhor forma de alcançar esse objetivo é fornecer às empresas anunciantes e ao público em geral um conjunto de dados detalhados em larga escala sobre gastos com propaganda que seja cruzado com bases de dados de checagem de fatos.
Letalidade Policial: Discursos e Práticas Legitimadoras da Política Militar de São Paulo
Authors: Battibugli Thaís , Aguiar Serra Carlos Henrique , Francisco de Souza Luís Antônio , Romero Gabriel Souza
Published: March 2022

A persistência de altos níveis de letalidade em ações da polícia constitui um dos grandes desafios à consolidação democrática no Brasil contemporâneo. Desde o processo de redemocratização nos anos 1980, a letalidade e a violência policiais estão no cerne do debate sobre segurança pública. Estudos mostraram as múltiplas faces e dimensões do problema, mas políticas efetivas de controle do uso da força policial não foram implantadas até o presente momento. Além disso, as recentes medidas estaduais e federais para a área de segurança pública indicam a ampliação das possibilidades de uso letal da força legal. A partir dos dados de pesquisa sobre letalidade policial no Estado de São Paulo de 1982 a 2020 e por meio de entrevistas com operadores técnicos do sistema de segurança e justiça sobre a letalidade policial, o presente artigo pretende retomar o debate sobre violência policial por meio de análise da ação policial em São Paulo, sinalizando as possibilidades de compreensão e enfrentamento do problema, que entrelaça a militarização da segurança pública com a produção de estado de exceção permanente, que fragilizam o Estado Democrático de Direito.
Arrests: What Are They Good For?
Authors: Harmon Rachel
Published: March 2022

Even police critics often assume that arrests are essential to policing. This Article challenges that assumption and argues that arrests should be curtailed. Arrests harm individuals, families, and communities. Given their costs, arrests should be used only when they serve an important state interest. Yet, arrests often happen even when no such interest exists. In United States, constitutional law acts as the primary legal constraint on arrests. But it does not ensure that the state has a reason to make an arrest – as opposed to starting the criminal process in another way. Although the police carry out millions of arrests to start the criminal process, to maintain order, to collect evidence, and to deter crime, arrests are usually unnecessary for these purposes. In most cases, reasonable, less intrusive, alternative means exist for achieving these ends, even for some serious crimes. Because the state can achieve its law enforcement objectives without so many arrests, police departments should conduct far fewer arrests than they currently do, and states should restrict the statutory authority to arrest accordingly. Though there are risks to reducing arrests, those risks are less problematic than continuing this form of widespread and unnecessary state coercion.
Flexible learning program for acoustic consultants
Authors: Burgess Marion , Stead Matthew
Published: March 2022

There is a demand around the world for professional staff to join acoustic consulting companies, and in Australasia this demand is increasing. The extent of acoustics covered in undergraduate programs varies greatly, and there is usually the need to provide additional learning opportunities for new employees. While larger companies may provide training in-house, there are times when they are not in a position to release the senior members to provide such training. By contrast, smaller companies generally do not have this option. Short courses or similar programs can provide the necessary upskilling of new staff, but such courses may not be offered at times or locations that suit the company recruitment program. To overcome the demonstrated need for supplementary education programs in acoustics, the Australasian Association for Acoustical Consultants worked with the University of New South Wales to develop a fully flexible distance learning program, loosely based on the United Kingdom Institute of Acoustics Diploma program. The development, implementation, and experiences from over a decade of offering this program are discussed in this paper.
Effects of COVID-19 lockdown in Milan urban and Rome suburban acoustic environments: Anomalous noise events and intermittency ratio
Authors: Alías Francesc , Alsina-Pagès Rosa Ma.
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the acoustic environment worldwide, entailing relevant reductions of equivalent noise levels (LAeq) during this exceptional period. In the context of the LIFE+ DYNAMAP project, two wireless acoustic sensor networks were deployed in Milan and Rome. Taking advantage of the built-in identification of anomalous noise events (ANE) in the sensors, this work analyses the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown in both urban and suburban acoustic environments from January to June 2020, considering the distribution of ANEs and the intermittency ratio (IR) as an indicator of the impact of noise on population. The results show statistically significant increments of ANEs in Rome during the lockdown, mainly on weekends, and especially at night, despite the significant decrease in salient events. Differently, ANEs decrease during the lockdown in Milan, mostly at daytime, as a result of population confinement. Although the IR increases in several urban locations, most sensed locations show a relevant decrease in IR during the confinement, which represents a noteworthy reduction of the negative impact of noise in the population of both cities. During the post-lockdown period, all the scores start to return to those observed in the pre-lockdown, but still remaining higher than in 2019.
High shear rate propulsion of acoustic microrobots in complex biological fluids
Authors: Aghakhani Amirreza , Pena-Francesch Abdon , Bozuyuk Ugur , Cetin Hakan , Wrede Paul , Sitti Metin
Published: March 2022

Untethered microrobots offer a great promise for localized targeted therapy in hard-to-access spaces in our body. Despite recent advancements, most microrobot propulsion capabilities have been limited to homogenous Newtonian fluids. However, the biological fluids present in our body are heterogeneous and have shear rate–dependent rheological properties, which limit the propulsion of microrobots using conventional designs and actuation methods. We propose an acoustically powered microrobotic system, consisting of a three-dimensionally printed 30-micrometer-diameter hollow body with an oscillatory microbubble, to generate high shear rate fluidic flow for propulsion in complex biofluids. The acoustically induced microstreaming flow leads to distinct surface-slipping and puller-type propulsion modes in Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids, respectively. We demonstrate efficient propulsion of the microrobots in diverse biological fluids, including in vitro navigation through mucus layers on biologically relevant three-dimensional surfaces. The microrobot design and high shear rate propulsion mechanism discussed herein could open new possibilities to deploy microrobots in complex biofluids toward minimally invasive targeted therapy.
Purification and Characterization of the Isoprene Monooxygenase from
Rhodococcus
sp. Strain AD45
Authors: Sims Leanne P. , Lockwood Colin W. J. , Crombie Andrew T. , Bradley Justin M. , Le Brun Nick E. , Murrell J. Colin
Published: March 2022

Isoprene is a highly abundant climate-active gas and a carbon source for some bacteria. Analyses of the genes encoding isoprene monooxygenase (IsoMO) indicate this enzyme is a soluble diiron center monooxygenase in the same family of oxygenases as soluble methane monooxygenase, alkene monooxygenase, and toluene monooxygenase.
Function and Application of the CRISPR-Cas System in the Plant PathogenErwinia amylovora
Authors: Parcey Michael , Gayder Steven , Castle Alan J. , Svircev Antonet M.
Published: March 2022

Erwinia amylovorais an economically significant agricultural pathogen found throughout the world. In North America,E. amylovorahas developed streptomycin resistance and therefore alternative treatments using phages have received increased attention.
Complete Genome Sequence of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Siphophage Suso
Authors: Emilia Qori , Groover Kyra , Clark James , Le Tram , Burrowes Ben , Liu Mei
Published: March 2022

Phage Suso is a temperate siphophage of
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
with a 44,659-bp genome. This phage is closely related to
Stenotrophomonas
phage SM171, sharing 92% overall nucleotide identity as determined by BLASTn, and it shares 14 similar proteins (BLASTp, E value < 0.001) with some
Pseudomonas
phages from the genus
Beetrevirus
.
Interactive Material: Insights into the geometry and evolution of the southern San Andreas fault from geophysical data, southern California
Authors: Langenheim V.E. , Fuis G.S.
Published: March 2022

Figures 1–2, 4, and 6–7 are interactive. Use the radio buttons to toggle between different maps.
Tetranuclear Hydroxo Complexes of Rare-Earth Elements with the Cubane Core as Products of Self-Controlled Hydrolysis
Authors: Tsymbarenko D. M. , Grebenyuk D. I. , Burlakova M. A. , Shurkina A. S.
Published: March 2022

Tetranuclear hydroxo complexes [La4(Deta)4(OH)4(Tfa)3(DetadcH)2](HTfa)(H2O)7(Tfa)3 (I) and [Nd4(Deta)4(OH)4(Tfa)3(DetadcH)2](H2O)n(Tfa)3 (II) with diethylene-N,N′-dicarbamate anions (DetadcH–) are synthesized for the first time by the reactions of lanthanum trifluoroacetate and neodymium trifluoroacetate with a solution of diethylenetriamine (Deta) in air under the self-controlled hydrolysis conditions and are characterized by X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Compounds I and II contain the same-type complex cationic fragment with the cubane metal–oxygen core stabilized due to four chelate Deta ligands and two bridging DetadcH– ligands. The DFT calculations of the geometry and vibrational spectrum of the [La4(Deta)4(OH)4(Tfa)3(DetadcH)2]3+ complex cation are performed.
Pulmonary embolus associated with a rare provoking factor: recreational nitrous oxide use
Authors: Bhardwaj Shah Aroon , Naidu Sindhu Bhaarrati
Published: March 2022

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common acute presentation which may be provoked by multiple factors. We present the unique case of a young man with no underlying health conditions who was diagnosed with bilateral PE which we believe was provoked by chronic use of nitrous oxide (NO), a potentially under-recognised risk factor for PE. NO is a substance that is commonly used recreationally, particularly among young adults in the UK. It has been shown to increase serum homocysteine levels which may create a prothrombotic state.

Our patient had raised serum homocysteine levels on admission. He was anticoagulated and discharged with advice to stop nitrous oxide use. We recommend asking patients about recreational drug use when screening for provoking factors for PE so as to offer appropriate treatment and counselling.
Risk factors associated with acute respiratory illnesses in athletes: a systematic review by a subgroup of the IOC consensus on ‘acute respiratory illness in the athlete’
Authors: Derman Wayne , Badenhorst Marelise , Eken Maaike , Gomez-Ezeiza Josu , Fitzpatrick Jane , Gleeson Maree , Kunorozva Lovemore , Mjosund Katja , Mountjoy Margo , Sewry Nicola , Schwellnus Martin
Published: March 2022

Objective

To review risk factors associated with acute respiratory illness (ARill) in athletes, including non-infectious ARill and suspected or confirmed acute respiratory infections (ARinf).

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Electronic databases: PubMed-Medline, EbscoHost and Web of Science.

Eligibility criteria

Original research articles published between January 1990 and July 2020 in English were searched for prospective and retrospective full text studies that reported quantitative data on risk factors associated with ARill/ARinf in athletes, at any level of performance (elite/non-elite), aged 15–65 years.

Results

48 studies (n=19 390 athletes) were included in the study. Risk factors associated with ARill/ARinf were: increased training monotony, endurance training programmes, lack of tapering, training during winter or at altitude, international travel and vitamin D deficits. Low tear-(SIgA) and salivary-(IgA) were immune biomarkers associated with ARill/ARinf.

Conclusions

Modifiable training and environmental risk factors could be considered by sports coaches and athletes to reduce the risk of ARill/ARinf. Clinicians working with athletes can consider assessing and treating specific nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin D. More research regarding the role and clinical application of measuring immune biomarkers in athletes at high risk of ARill/ARinf is warranted.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020160928.