bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insomnie bei Krebspatienten: Komorbiditäten und Erwartungen leiten Therapieentscheidungen
Authors: Voiß Petra
Published: December 2023

Purpose: Insomnia negatively affects quality of life in cancer survivors. Expectations of insomnia treatment efficacy may influence response to intervention. We sought to determine whether pre-treatment outcome expectancy predicts response to two non-pharmacological interventions for insomnia among cancer survivors. Methods: We analyzed data from a randomized clinical trial that compared acupuncture versus cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) in cancer survivors. Patient expectancy was measured by the Mao Treatment Expectancy Scale (MTES) at baseline. Insomnia severity was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) at treatment completion (week 8). Multivariate linear regression was used to evaluate the associations between pre-treatment expectancy and ISI score at week, 8 adjusting for co-variates. Results: Expectancy for acupuncture and CBT-I were similar at baseline (acupuncture: 13.3 ± 4.0; CBT-I: 13.2 ± 2.9, p = 0.17). Greater baseline expectancy scores were associated with a greater and statistically significant insomnia severity reduction at week 8 in the acupuncture group (beta coefficients [Coef.] = - 0.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] = - 0.6 to - 0.1, p = 0.016) adjusted for co-variates. Baseline expectancy was not statistically associated with insomnia severity reduction in the CBT-I group (Coef. = - 0.2, 95% CI = - 0.7 to 0.2, p = 0.31). High expectancy was significantly associated with greater proportion of treatment responders at week 8 in the acupuncture group (76% vs. 38%, p = 0.001) but not in the CBT-I group (83% vs. 70%, p = 0.21).
Synchronization and Clustering in Complex Quadratic Networks
Authors: Rǎdulescu Anca , Evans Danae , Augustin Amani-Dasia , Cooper Anthony , Nakuci Johan , Muldoon Sarah
Published: December 2023

Synchronization and clustering are well studied in the context of networks of oscillators, such as neuronal networks. However, this relationship is notoriously difficult to approach mathematically in natural, complex networks. Here, we aim to understand it in a canonical framework, using complex quadratic node dynamics, coupled in networks that we call complex quadratic networks (CQNs). We review previously defined extensions of the Mandelbrot and Julia sets for networks, focusing on the behavior of the node-wise projections of these sets and on describing the phenomena of node clustering and synchronization. One aspect of our work consists of exploring ties between a network’s connectivity and its ensemble dynamics by identifying mechanisms that lead to clusters of nodes exhibiting identical or different Mandelbrot sets. Based on our preliminary analytical results (obtained primarily in two-dimensional networks), we propose that clustering is strongly determined by the network connectivity patterns, with the geometry of these clusters further controlled by the connection weights. Here, we first explore this relationship further, using examples of synthetic networks, increasing in size (from 3, to 5, to 20 nodes). We then illustrate the potential practical implications of synchronization in an existing set of whole brain, tractography-based networks obtained from 197 human subjects using diffusion tensor imaging. Understanding the similarities to how these concepts apply to CQNs contributes to our understanding of universal principles in dynamic networks and may help extend theoretical results to natural, complex systems.
Udders, Queer Nests, and Animal Family Trees: Kinship as Keyword in Animal Studies in the Bible
Authors: Berkowitz Beth
Published: December 2023

How might kinship help us think about animals in the Bible, and, conversely, how can the Bible help us think about animal kinship? I propose that the concept of kinship can help us take next steps in Animal Studies in the Bible. After defining kinship and reviewing work on human-animal studies, I turn to animal-animal kinship, the “mutuality of being” that animals share not with humans but with each other. I focus on the four “animal family” laws of the Pentateuch and the so-called humanitarian rationale that has dominated interpretation of them. Pointing to problems with that rationale, I turn to rabbinic reception of these laws in the Mishnah, which, I argue, takes a very different approach that deserves our attention. I close with scientific and source critical perspectives, along with reflection on the real-life stakes of attending to the Bible’s animal families.
Morphological and molecular characterisation of Rotylenchus astragalus sp. n. (Nematoda: Rhabditida: Hoplolaimidae) from Shanxi province, north China
Authors: Yin Tian , Yang Yimeng , Liu Meina , Zhao Zengqi , Wang Jianming , Xu Yumei
Published: December 2023

Rotylenchus astragalus sp. n. is characterised by having females 841-1069 μm long, stylet 28-31 μm long, basal knobs rounded, dorsal pharyngeal gland orifice (DGO) 3-5 μm, lateral field with four incisures, pharyngeal gland lobes slender, overlapping intestine dorsally for 4-12 μm, excretory pore located just posterior to the hemizonid, vulva slightly posterior to mid-body, ovaries paired, phasmid opening relatively large and 8-18 annuli anterior to the anus, tail conoid and absence of males. The matrix code of R. astragalus sp. n. is A5, B3, C1, D4, E1, F2, G1-2, H3, I2, J2, K1. In addition, phylogenetic relationships of the recovered populations were analysed using sequences of the near full length small subunit (SSU) and D2-D3 segments of large subunit (LSU) rRNA genes.
Metamodernism: A Multispecies Approach to Hermeneutics
Authors: Nencini Andrea Maria
Published: December 2023

This paper discusses the merits of the multispecies approach, presented by Jason Ā. Josephson Storm, in his book Metamodernism. By offering a compelling analysis of the causes that led human sciences to fall into the opposition between ontological and mind-dependent interpretation of phenomena, Josephson Storm attempts to solve the resulting impasse by examining how hermeneutical processes result from an active dialectical relation between living organisms and the contextual regularities the environment offers them. Thanks to its capacity to prevent essentialism, while at the same time allowing a form of a relational and pragmatic ontology of the ‘objects’ under research scrutiny, I argue that this method of analysis of social categories can represent a valuable tool for scholars of religion.
“Reconstructing the Study of Religion”: Entering the Conversation from a Different Corner of the Academic World
Authors: Becker Carmen
Published: December 2023

This essay engages Josephson Storm’s project of the reconstruction of the study of religion after the latest linguistic and material turns and what he calls radical skepticism by provincializing his account of the study of religion and the human sciences. Referencing postfoundational reconstructive approaches, I argue that so called poststructural theories have already led to new reconstructive efforts, also in the study of religion, at least in the academic environment I was trained in. Furthermore, the lack of an account of power risks ignoring the role of status differentials that prefigure the ability of humans to engage in the practice of self-discovery which is central to his ethical project of revolutionary happiness.
Armenians in 1920s Greece: Turkey’s Unwanted Minority, the League of Nations’ Burden, Greece’s “Other” Refugees
Authors: Erol Merih
Published: December 2023

This article sheds light upon the history of an underresearched group of refugees who settled in Greece in the 1920s. It focuses on Armenians from Anatolia who fled to Greece in 1921–22, during and after the Greek-Turkish War of 1919–22. The article examines how the Greek government and international humanitarian organizations (Near East Relief, American Red Cross, etc.) approached the Armenian refugees, including orphans. The study further highlights practices such as transfers of Armenians within Greece, repatriation programs supported by Greece to send the Armenian refugees to Soviet Armenia, and citizenship policies regarding them.
The Epigraphical Program of Mamluk Minbars: Religious and Quranic Inscriptions Emphasizing Minbars as a Site for Preaching
Authors: Kühn Miriam
Published: December 2023

This study explores the epigraphical program of Mamluk preaching pulpits (minbar, pl. manabir), focusing on Quranic and other religious inscriptions. Quranic verses are the most frequently employed inscription, while other religious texts are occasionally cited. These inscriptions emphasize the benefits of endowing mosques, the significance of minbar placement within the mosque, and practices of Muslim devotion comprising the Friday prayer. This article proposes that inscriptions are specifically chosen to signify the minbar as a place for preaching, both for the Friday noon (ḫuṭba) as well as popular preaching (mawʿiẓa). This is particularly evident in the late Mamluk minbars of Cairo, which bear inscriptions of two prominent components of the ḫuṭba. Furthermore, a unique inscriptional reference to using a minbar for mawʿiẓa is also presented.
Cynorkis adeleana, a new species of Orchidaceae (Orchidoideae; Habenariinae) endemic to Réunion
Authors: PAILLER THIERRY , ROBERT CHARLES-HENRI , FLORES OLIVIER , BYTEBIER BENNY , BAIDER CLÁUDIA
Published: December 2023

N/A
Relationship between the AMOC and the Multidecadal Variability of the Midlatitude Southern Indian Ocean
Authors: Zhang Ruijie , Dong Buwen , Wen Zhiping , Guo Yuanyuan , Chen Xiaodan
Published: December 2023

Air–sea coupling system in the southwestern Indian Ocean (SWIO; 35°–55°S, 40°–75°E) exhibits predominant multidecadal variability that is the strongest during austral summer. It is characterized by an equivalent barotropic atmospheric high (low) pressure over warm (cold) sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies and a poleward (equatorward) shift of the westerlies during the positive (negative) phase. In this study, physical processes of this multidecadal variability are investigated by using observations/reanalysis and CMIP6 model simulations. Results suggest that the multidecadal fluctuation can be explained by the modulation of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) and the local air–sea positive feedback in the SWIO. In both observations/reanalysis and CMIP6 model simulations, the AMOC fluctuation presents a significantly negative correlation with the multidecadal SST variation in the SWIO when the AMOC is leading by about a decade. The mechanisms are that the preceding AMOC variation can cause an interhemispheric dipolar pattern of SST anomalies in the Atlantic Ocean. Subsequently, the SST anomalies in the midlatitudes of the South Atlantic can propagate to the SWIO by the oceanic Rossby wave under the influence of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC). Once the SST anomalies reach the SWIO, these SST anomalies in the oceanic front can affect the baroclinicity in the lower troposphere to influence the synoptic transient eddy and then cause the atmospheric circulation anomaly via the eddy–mean flow interaction. Subsequently, the anomalous atmospheric circulation over the SWIO can significantly strengthen the SST anomalies through modifying the oceanic meridional temperature advection and latent and sensible heat flux.
Decomposition analysis of the difference in depressive symptoms between urban and rural employed people in China: Unpaid work plays an important role
Authors: Jiang Qinqin , Zhao Zhe , Liu Yijun , Wei Zhenbang , Bing Yan , Zhang Feng , Liu Jiahao , Gao Lei , Sun Jinhai , Yuan Lei
Published: December 2023

Objective:

Focusing on the relationship between unpaid labor and the occurrence of depressive symptoms, this study aimed to explore the factors influencing the inequality of depressive symptoms and their contribution among Chinese urban and rural employed people.

Methods:

This study utilized the 2020 China Family Panel Studies’ national resampling data. M﻿ultivariate logistic regression was used to explore the factors influencing the occurrence of depressive symptoms among employed persons in urban and rural areas in China, respectively. Fairlie decomposition was used to explore the contribution of influencing factors such as unpaid labor to the difference in the occurrence of depressive symptoms between urban and rural areas.

Results:

About 2,136 (21.70%) participants had depressive symptoms, of which 1,197 (24.75%) rural employed people had depressive symptoms and 939 (18.75%) urban employed people had depressive symptoms. The results of Fairlie decomposition analysis showed that 70.51% of the differences in depressive symptoms between urban and rural Chinese employed people could be explained by the covariates included in this study, including education level (52.44%), age (−11.91%), housework time (10.42%), self-rated health status (10.22%), self-rated income status (2.53%), exercise (2.36%), job satisfaction status (1.99%), chronic disease status (1.90%), and marital status (1.79%).

Conclusion:

This study found that the proportion of depressive symptoms was lower among urban employed residents than among rural employed residents. This difference was mainly caused by unpaid labor time, socioeconomic status, personal lifestyle, and health status. Housework, which is one of the unpaid labor, contributed to this depressive symptom difference in the third place.
Reboot coaching programme: a mixed-methods evaluation assessing resilience, confidence, burnout and depression in medical students
Authors: Johnson Judith , Pointon Lucy , Talbot Rebecca , Coleman Rebecca , Budworth Luke , Simms-Ellis Ruth , Vogt Katharina , Tsimpida Dialechti , Biyani Chandra Shekha , Harrison Reema , Cheung Gloria , Melville Colin , Jayagopal Vijay , Lea William
Published: December 2023

Background

Poor mental health in medical students is a global concern. Effective interventions are required, which are tailored towards the training-related stressors medical students experience. The Reboot coaching programme is an online, tailored intervention based on cognitive-behavioural principles.

Aims

To evaluate whether the Reboot coaching programme tailored for medical students was feasible and associated with improvements in mental health outcome indicators.

Methods

Medical students participated in two group online workshops and a one-to-one coaching call with a Reboot-trained licensed psychological therapist. Participants provided data at: baseline (T1), post-workshops (T2), post-coaching call (T3) and 4-month follow-up (T4). Outcome measures included resilience, confidence, burnout and depression. Feedback was provided regarding the workshops at T2.

Results

115 participants (93/80.9% women; mage = 23.9; SD = 2.8) were recruited, 83 (72.2%) completed all intervention elements and 82 (71.3%) provided T4 data, surpassing recruitment and retention targets. There were significant improvements following baseline in resilience ( ps < .001), confidence ( ps < .001), burnout ( ps < .001) and depression ( ps ≤ .001). Most participants agreed the workshops imparted useful skills (n = 92; 99%) and would recommend Reboot to others (n = 89; 95.6%).

Conclusions

Existing interventions have produced mixed results regarding their effectiveness in improving medical students’ mental health. Reboot is a feasible intervention in this group which is associated with improvements in resilience, confidence, burnout and depression. Further controlled studies of Reboot are now needed.
Evaluation of Post-Swallow Residue with Visual Analysis of Swallowing Efficiency and Safety in Patients with Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Doruk Can , Çaytemel Berkay , Şahin Erdi , Kara Hakan , Samancı Bedia , Abay Sevinç Nisa , Bilgiç Başar , Hanağası Haşmet , Başaran Bora , Enver Necati , Rameau Anais
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Dysphagia is common in idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (IPD) and is associated with impairments in both swallowing safety and swallowing efficiency. The goals of this study were to define post-swallow residue patterns in people with IPD and describe pathophysiological endoscopic findings affecting residue accumulation. Methods: This was a prospective single-blinded cross-sectional cohort study of patients with the diagnosis of IPD recruited from a Movement Disorder Clinic. Clinical variables included patient age, cognitive function, and measures of disease severity, and laryngoscopic examinations with a flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) were completed for each patient. Visual Analysis of Swallowing Efficiency and Safety (VASES) was used to analyze FEES. Post-swallow residue outcomes and non-residue endoscopic outcomes including the Bowing index, Penetration Aspiration Scale (PAS) score, premature leakage, and build-up phenomenon were evaluated. Multiple regression models were used to evaluate factors affecting the residue at different anatomic levels. Results: Overall 53 patients completed the study. The multiple regression analyses showed a relation between (1) the presence of residue at the level of oropharynx and epiglottis with premature leakage, (2) the presence of residue at the level of the laryngeal vestibule and vocal folds with build-up phenomenon, and (3) the presence of residue at the level of the hypopharynx, laryngeal vestibule, and subglottis with airway invasion. Conclusion: Residue pattern during FEES is associated with specific swallow dysfunctions in IPD. Using residue localization and quantification may be a helpful tool in assessing the impact of targeted swallowing interventions in patients with IPD and dysphagia.
Archives of/as resistance: On the justice potential of eyewitness image records documenting the Syrian conflict
Authors: Andén-Papadopoulos Kari
Published: December 2023

What are the new possibilities of enacting justice through the vast archives of digital eyewitness images and self-representations produced since 2011 by the grassroots Syrian opposition movement amidst both a nascent revolution and a war entailing gross human rights violations? Based on in-depth interviews with 15 anti-regime Syrian video activists, my article considers how the image makers themselves narrate the role and meaning of these archival records in efforts to reckon with Syria’s tormented past and build a more just future. I thus seek to recognize the ongoing agency of the Syrian media activists who struggled, by centering them and their wishes in the current debate about the role that this new type of activist-fueled “human rights records” can play in helping to build roads to justice and healing in Syria.
Improvement in chronic pelvic pain, orthostatic intolerance and interstitial cystitis symptoms after treatment of pelvic vein insufficiency
Authors: Smith Steven J , Sichlau Michael J , Smith B Holly , Knight Dacre RT , Chen Brenda , Rowe Peter C
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Comorbidities associated with venous origin chronic pelvic pain (VO-CPP) were evaluated pre and post venous treatment to assess change.

Materials and methods

45 women with VO-CPP were treated with venous stenting and/or embolization. Four surveys assessed symptoms pre- and post-treatment: IPPS (chronic pelvic pain), PUF (interstitial cystitis), OHQ (dysautonomia), and modified ROME III (IBS). Prevalence of joint hypermobility was investigated.

Results

Ages were 18–65. Pretreatment, 64% and 49% of women were in the severe range for PUF and OHQ, respectively. 40% and 56% met criteria for IBS and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome/Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (EDS/HSD), respectively. 17eceived an iliac stent, 5 pelvic embolization, and 23 both. Post-treatment, average scores improved: IPPS (by 55%), PUF (34%), and OHQ (49%). Rome III improved only slightly.

Conclusion

Pelvic pain, interstitial cystitis, and dysautonomia were frequently found with VO-CPP and improved after venous treatment. EDS/HSD and IBS were common in these women.
Effect of spent alumina catalyst and date palm fiber ash addition in the development of aluminum based composite
Authors: Verma Shailendra Kumar , Dwivedi Vijay Kumar , Dwivedi Shashi Prakash
Published: December 2023

This study focuses on utilizing waste aluminum as a base material and aims to fabricate a new green composite material by incorporating industrial aluminum waste, carbonized date palm fiber (CDPF), and spent alumina catalyst (SAC) powder as reinforcing agents. Initially, this type of waste disposal SAC, along with date palm fiber ash, has not been used before. In practical applications, we can utilize our composite in the automobile industry since the results show improved mechanical properties and reduced corrosion. By introducing 1.25% SAC and 6.25% carbonized palm fiber (CDPF) particles into the waste aluminum, significant improvements have been observed in mechanical characteristics like tensile strength, hardness, and toughness. Comparative analysis with the base material reveals enhancements of approximately 20.82%, 33.11%, and 22.72% in tensile strength, hardness, and toughness, respectively. Moreover, a reduction in composite elasticity has been observed. The SEM and EDX results demonstrate a uniform microstructure in the composite material. Corrosion experiments indicate that the addition of SAC and CDPF effectively minimizes the annual corrosion rate.
Mining misinformation discourse on social media within the ‘ideological square’
Authors: Hamdi Sami Abdullah
Published: December 2023

A considerable flow of information and news stories are being exchanged on social media in several parts of the world. A significant number of news stories are fake and are published to serve certain purposes and ideologies. The present study examines how Arab social media users respond to fake news in Arabic in reference to van Dijk’s concept of the ideological square. A dataset of fake news was collected from Twitter, now X platform, comprising tweets on various events. After preprocessing, a topic-modeling algorithm was applied to the dataset to reveal its latent aspects. Instances of the featured topics in the dataset were then analyzed in accordance with the sociocognitive approach to critical discourse analysis. The findings demonstrate that fake news was leveraged to promote ideological struggle between social groups. Some social media users may interact with misinformation without evaluating its credibility and, therefore, express ideologically loaded beliefs for or against the subject matter of the news story. Fake news stories were also exploited for business and marketing. Misinformation’s discourse structure involves ideological polarization, self-identification and goal-description, and violates norms and values. The discursive structure and strategies revolve around the ideological square.
Unveiling Augmented Reality Trends in the Retail Industry: A Systematic and Bibliometric Review
Authors: Sharma Diksha
Published: December 2023

The goal of the study is to conduct a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis to look at the publication patterns in the field of augmented reality (AR) because it has a rich intellectual structure and would be useful for identifying new research trends. The study examined 278 documents from Scopus that were published between 1999 and 2022. Biblioshiny software was used to conduct performance analysis and science mapping analysis. The findings of the study examined the corpus performance, country performance, authors’ performance, journal performance and article performance along with the methodological preferences of researchers in relation to AR in retailing. The prominent topics in the field include artificial intelligence, new devices and other emerging technologies, adoption of AR in retail and AR experience in e-commerce.
Impact of Information, Technology Infrastructure, Inventory Management and Demand on the Overall Performance of the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain
Authors: Dangi Ravi Raj , Adkonkar Amol , Arora Pooja , Sharma Anand
Published: December 2023

This study was conducted primarily to investigate the impact of information, technology, inventory management and demand on the performance of the pharmaceutical supply chain (PSC). In order to realize the objectives, a structured closed-ended questionnaire was prepared, and responses were collected from retail outlets considering the respondent’s location, size of the store, type of store and association of the store with manufacturers/companies. In total, 103 complete responses were used for the study. It was found that information, technology infrastructure, inventory management and demand all have shown to have a direct positive influence on the overall performance of the PSC. The variables information systems, system software, inventory operations and promotions were found to have the highest association with information, technology infrastructure, inventory management and demand, respectively. The results highlight insights and critical factors that need to be focused on to improve the performance of supply chain operations. The results of the present study can be important for chain personnel involved in decision-making.
Entrepreneurial and Survival Motivations in the Informal Food Sector: A Case Study in N’Djamena, Chad
Authors: Moussa Moustapha Abakar , Yilmaz Recep
Published: December 2023

This article examines participation in the informal food sector in Chad’s capital city, N’Djamena, by studying the differences between survivalist and opportunistic food vendors. The objective is to determine whether the nuanced approach to participation in the informal food sector proposed by studies conducted in Brazil and India can also be applied to the African context, particularly in N’Djamena, Chad. Using five criteria to differentiate the two groups, four regression models were developed to identify the characteristics most strongly associated with each group. The results show that street food vendors are most likely to be opportunistic and that few vendors are both survivalist and opportunistic. Many similarities were found between the two groups, and both would benefit from a more favourable political environment. The implications of this study are important for street vendors, who face difficult working conditions and social stigma due to their informal work. This study contributes to a better understanding of participation in the informal food sector in Chad and may help guide the development of more equitable and effective policies to support these informal workers.
Preparing Teacher Candidates in Classroom Management Prior to Entering the Teaching Profession
Authors: Hart Katie C. , Poznanski Bridget , Cramer Elizabeth D.
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to evaluate the promise of a specialized curriculum designed to prepare general education teacher candidates to effectively implement classroom management strategies within a multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) framework. Participants were 110 U.S. teacher candidates enrolled in a student teaching internship course. Fall participants (intervention group; n = 69) received the specialized curriculum that focused on implementation of classroom management strategies for students with emotional and behavioral disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in concert with their internship; spring participants (comparison group; n = 41) did not. All participants completed pre- and postquestionnaires, which included measures assessing knowledge of classroom management principles, knowledge of ADHD, and self-efficacy. Measures of satisfaction with the curriculum were also collected. Fourteen teachers (seven intervention group, seven comparison group) participated in follow-up observations in their first teaching semester. Results demonstrate significant differences in knowledge of classroom management principles and ADHD between groups from pre- to postinternship, and high levels of participant satisfaction with the curriculum. Preliminary observations reveal greater use of evidence-based classroom management strategies in the intervention group. Implications for further program development and educator preparation as well as suggestions for future research are discussed.
Independent Celebrant-Led Wedding Ceremonies: Translating, Tweaking, and Innovating Traditions
Authors: Blake Sharon , Probert Rebecca , Barton Tania , Akhtar Rajnaara
Published: December 2023

This article explores ceremonial design of independent celebrant-led wedding ceremonies in England and Wales. It draws on a qualitative study which involved focus groups with celebrants and interviews with individuals who have had an independent celebrant-led wedding ceremony. Six factors are described which influenced how couples translated and tweaked traditions or innovated ceremonial elements: faith, heritage, values, kin, informality, and temporality. In line with a bricolage process, it is suggested that the keeping of and minor adaption of traditions through the personalisation offered by independent celebrant-led wedding ceremonies may support inclusion of relationship practices such as interfaith couplings and blended families. Examples of kinship display-work and self-display-work were found throughout participant accounts of their wedding ceremonies. It is proposed that both may act as an important means by which the needs of individuals for whom a religious or belief framework is not prioritised over other contexts of identification can be met in a wedding ceremony. Further research is needed to explore the transferability of these findings to larger samples, as well as specific sub-populations.
Medication literacy and its social contextuality
Authors: Lopes Noémia , Rodrigues Carla , Pegado Elsa
Published: December 2023

This article aims to contribute to the discussion about medication literacy, by focussing on the social contextuality of the information mobilised in the use of medicines. We aim to explore the social construction processes of medication literacy, as an essential dimension for a more layperson-centred approach in the promotion of literacy in this field. This approach is justified by the growing social and cultural dissemination of medication use, the diversification of its uses beyond health and illness, and the increasing degree of lay autonomy in managing its use. The article is organised in two main sections. In the first section, we review the social history of medication literacy, including a discussion of the social contextuality of literacy phenomena. In the second section, the analysis of social contextuality is operationalised with a focus on information, covering: (i) ways of relating to institutional information and sources of information about medication; (ii) contexts of sociability in which information is shared and validated. This analysis is empirically supported by selected results from two research projects, conducted in Portugal, on the consumption of medicines and dietary supplements for performance purposes – that is, for the management and/or improvement of cognitive, bodily or relational performance.
‘Difficulties when learning, easiness when fighting’: Why do families in Latvia choose (pre)schools with a language of instruction other than their L1?
Authors: Martena Sanita , Marten Heiko F.
Published: December 2023

Aims and objectives:

Language debates in Latvia often focus on the role of Latvian as official and main societal language. Yet, Latvian society is highly multilingual, and families with home languages other than Latvian have to choose between different educational trajectories for their children. In this context, this paper discusses the results of two studies which addressed the question of why families with Russian as a home language choose (pre)schools with languages other than Russian as medium of instruction (MOI). The first study analyses family narratives which provide insight into attitudes and practices which lead to the decision to send children to Latvian-MOI institutions. The second study investigates language attitudes and practices by families in the international community of Riga German School.

Methodology:

The paper discusses data gathered during two studies: for the first, semi-structed interviews were conducted with Russian-speaking families who choose Latvian-medium schools for their children. For the second study, a survey was carried out in the community of an international school in Riga, sided by ethnographic observations and interviews with teachers and the school leadership.

Data and analysis:

Interviews and ethnographic observations were subjected to a discourse analysis with a focus on critical events and structures of life trajectory narratives. Survey data were processed following simple statistical analysis and qualitative content analysis.

Findings/conclusions:

Our data reveal that families highly embrace multilingualism and see the development of individual plurilingualism as important for integration into Latvian society as well as for educational and professional opportunities in the multilingual societies of Latvia and Europe. At the same time, multilingualism and multiculturalism, including Russian, are seen as a value in itself. In addition, our studies reflect the bidirectionality of family language policies in interplay with practices ineducational institutions: family decisions influence children’s language acquisition at school, but the school also has an impact on the families’ language practices at home. In sum, we argue that educational policies should therefore pay justice to the wishes of families in Latvia to incorporate different language aspects into individual educational trajectories.

Originality:

Language policy is a frequent topic of investigation in the Baltic states. However, there has been a lack in research on family language policy and school choices. In this vein, our paper adds to the understanding of educational choices and language policy processes among Russian-speaking families and the international community in Latvia.
Meta-Analysis of Duplex Surveillance Following Lower Limb Endovascular Intervention
Authors: McKenna Mervyn , Elghazaly Hussein , Bergman Henry , Wingate Laura , Robbins Dan , Davies Alun H. , Thapar Ankur
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

The aim of this systematic review was to identify the evidence in the literature for limb salvage with the introduction of duplex surveillance.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines (PRISMA) methodology for all studies which compared a group undergoing clinical surveillance with a group undergoing combined clinical and duplex surveillance after endovascular therapy for peripheral arterial disease. MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Database for Systematic Reviews, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for relevant studies by 2 reviewers. Studies were quality assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. An individual patient data survival analysis and meta-analysis for 1- and 2-year amputation outcomes using a random-effects model were performed.

Results:

Two low-quality nonrandomized studies met the inclusion criteria. There was a statistically and clinically significant reduction in major amputation in patients undergoing combined clinical and duplex surveillance (log-rank p<0.001). The number needed to treat to prevent 1 amputation at 2 years was 5 patients. At 1 year, the odds ratio (OR) for amputation was 0.22, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.10-0.48, with no statistical heterogeneity. At 2 years, the numbers of patients were low and the effect on amputation was less certain OR=0.25, 95% CI=0.04-1.58.

Conclusions:

Preliminary, low-quality data suggests that there may be a clinically significant reduction in major amputation with the introduction of duplex surveillance. It is recommended that a randomized controlled trial is performed to confirm these findings and identify the anatomical subgroups that benefit the most from surveillance.

Clinical Impact

“Two low-quality studies reveal a significant clinical impact: combined clinical and duplex surveillance markedly reduces major amputations (log-rank p<0.001). At 1-year, the odds ratio for amputation is 0.22 (95% CI=0.10-0.48), emphasizing limb salvage benefits. Despite less certainty at 2-years, a notable absolute risk reduction of 19% is seen, with a number needed to treat of 5. This underscores the urgent need for a randomized controlled trial to validate findings and identify key subgroups. The meta-analysis strongly advocates implementing duplex surveillance for a year post-endovascular interventions, especially in patients fit for reintervention, with important considerations for cost-effectiveness and focused clinical trials.”
Efficacy and Safety of Atherectomy Combined With Balloon Angioplasty vs Balloon Angioplasty Alone in Patients With Femoro-Popliteal Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Pan Dikang , Guo Julong , Su Zhixiang , Meng Wenzhuo , Wang Jingyu , Guo Jianming , Gu Yongquan
Published: December 2023

Background:

Balloon angioplasty (BA), including drug-coated balloons (DCBs) and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), has traditionally been used to treat femoral-popliteal lesions. However, in recent years, atherectomy (ATH) has been proposed as a complementary approach. To assess the effectiveness of ATH compared with BA alone in patients with femoral-popliteal artery lesions, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods:

We included RCTs that focused on patients with femoral-popliteal artery lesions and reported data on the use of ATH and BA therapy. Two reviewers conducted a literature search, refined the data, and assessed the risk of bias.

Results:

We included a total of 6 RCTs involving 399 patients with femoral-popliteal artery lesions. The use of ATH in combination with BA appeared to improve the patency rate at 12 months (odds ratio [OR]=2.04, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.14-3.62). In addition, ATH with BA was associated with lower major amputation rates (MD=2.01, 95% CI=0.06-0.77, p=0.02) and a decreased likelihood of bailout stenting (OR=0.07, 95% CI=0.02-0.25, p=0.001). However, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of target lesion revascularization (TLR) at 12 months, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), and distal embolization events. In addition, we performed subgroup analysis for different ATH devices and BA types.

Conclusions:

Based on this meta-analysis, it can be concluded that the use of ATH in combination with BA is a safe and effective method for treating femoral-popliteal artery lesions. In addition, the patency rate at 1 year is superior to treatment with BA alone. Atherectomy also reduces the likelihood of amputation and bailout stenting. Clinicians should consider these findings when designing future RCTs and developing clinical practice guidelines.

Clinical Impact

This meta-analysis summarises a number of existing studies to advance understanding of the atherectomy devices and to reveal its potential. This new technique, when compared with drug coated balloon, shows the possibility of obtaining better clinical outcomes in femoro-popliteal lesions than drug-coated balloon alone, such as higher 12-month primary patency rates as shown in some studies. Currently, it is important to consider the appropriate technology applicable for individualised treatment. atherectomy devices seem to provide clinicians with additional options in clinical practice and to benefit patients in the future. This requires more high quality studies to explore the role and benefits of atherectomy devices in femoro-popliteal lesions.
Stent Grafts Across the Elbow Joint for Access Salvage
Authors: Aronhime Shimon , Avital Yaniv , Balan Shmuel , Cherniavsky Alexei
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Covered stent grafts (SGs) are currently being used in a wide variety of situations to maintain function and patency of hemodialysis access circuits. Stent grafts are rarely placed across the elbow joint (EJ), however, due to fear of stent fracture. This study reports on the experience and patency rates with SGs across the EJ.

Materials and Methods:

From April 2020 to August 2023, all procedures with SGs placed across the EJ were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 21 patients with SGs placed across the EJ were included in the study. The Covera Vascular Covered Stent (BD, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, USA) was used in all cases. Of these, 18 were arteriovenous (AV) fistulae, and 3 were AV grafts. Stent grafts were placed for various pathologies, including residual stenosis, perforation, aneurysm, and thrombosis. Follow-up outcomes were obtained from angiographic images on follow-up angiography and included primary patency, primary assisted patency, and secondary patency.

Results:

The primary patency of the target lesion was 85% (CI=70%–100%) and 85% (CI=70%–100%) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. The primary assisted patency was 85% (CI=70%–100%) and 85% (CI=70%–100%) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Secondary patency of the access circuit was 95% (CI=86%–100%) at 6 months and 89% (CI=75%–100%) at 12 months. The average follow-up duration was 393 days (range=27–768 days). There were no instances of stent fracture during follow-up.

Conclusions:

Stent grafts should be placed across the EJ for good short-term and mid-term patency rates.

Clinical Impact

The placement of stent grafts across the elbow joint in hemodialysis patients for access salvage is controversial due to the fear of stent fracture or occlusion. This retrospective study evaluated the placement of stent grafts for access salvage in 21 patients for various etiologies. Good patency rates were seen out to 12 months and no stent fractures were observed. Although longer term data is needed, stent grafts should be considered an acceptable option for access salvage when treating lesions that cross the elbow joint.
Adolescent Domestic Violence Referrals and Adverse Childhood Experiences: Race and Sex Differences
Authors: Gilbreath Shelby , Cheng Yusen , de Francisco Lopes Vitoria , Novak Abigail
Published: December 2023

Following the implementation of mandatory arrest policies for domestic violence in the 1990s, the number of youth – particularly girls – referred to juvenile justice systems for domestic violence (DV) increased. Though adolescent DV perpetration and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) share many of the same outcomes, and youth DV perpetration is thought to occur more frequently in abusive home environments, the link between ACEs and DV referral for juveniles is under-examined. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between ACEs and DV referral using data from the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, as well as identify gender and race/ethnicity differences in referral risk by ACEs. According to results, ACEs were associated with DV referral and this relationship was stronger for girls. Latino/a youth also experienced the greatest risk of referral relative to ACEs exposure. Implications for policy makers and practitioners are discussed.
The first 1001 days: A scoping review of parenting interventions strengthening good enough parenting in parents with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Zijlstra Annick , Joosten Daniek , van Nieuwenhuijzen Maroesjka , de Castro Bram Orobio
Published: December 2023

There are concerns about parents’ parenting skills with intellectual disabilities. However, it is reported that parents with intellectual disabilities show good enough parenting if they are supported effectively and in line with their needs. This scoping review identifies and critically evaluates preventive interventions for parents with intellectual disabilities and a cumulation of multiple and complex problems that aim to prepare them for good enough parenting. Six interventions were identified, with preliminary to strong indications of effectiveness. Although none of the interventions focused on all conditions of good enough parenting and only one intervention incorporated all seven key elements to effectively work with parents with intellectual disabilities, the limited evidence on the effectiveness of these interventions suggests that significant and societally relevant effects on parents’ knowledge and skills can be attained. This suggests that more comprehensive early preventive interventions with rigorous evaluations can have a significant impact.
Preparation for postsecondary education of transition aged youth with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder in the United States: An Analysis of data from the national longitudinal transition study 2012
Authors: Grigal Meg , Papay Clare , Migliore Alberto , Choiseul-Praslin Belkis , Chen Jie
Published: December 2023

Youth with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder increasingly access postsecondary education in many countries around the world. To ensure students are ready to access these options, preparation for postsecondary education must be part of their transition services. This study examines the postsecondary education preparation experiences of youth with intellectual disability and autism using the NLTS 2012 dataset to identify the extent to which these youth are accessing preparation activities and if this preparation differs from youth in other groups. Findings indicate few differences between the postsecondary education preparation of youth with intellectual disability and autism and autism without intellectual disability but highlight substantial differences in several preparation activities when compared with youth in other groups.
Effect of dance movement therapy on balance in adults with Down Syndrome. A pilot study
Authors: Aleksander-Szymanowicz Paulina , Filar-Mierzwa Katarzyna , Skiba Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

Systematic participation in dance therapy may improve balance and reduce risk of falls. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of dance therapy on balance and risk of falls in adults with Down syndrome. Study participants comprised 23 persons with Down syndrome aged 26– 49 years who underwent dance therapy. Before and after the therapy, all participants were measured on a BioSway balance platform using three tests: postural stability, limits of stability, and M-CTSIB fall risk. Mean result was lower following intervention (2.40 ± 1.81 vs. 1.65 ± 1.32; p = .006) in the postural stability test. The limits of stability test found a statistically significant difference (26.30 ± 8.99 vs. 37.90 ± 12.54; p < .001). The results of this study only partially supported the hypothesis that dance therapy improves balancing skills in adults with Down Syndrome.