bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical HOCl Production Modeling for an Electrochemical Catheter
Authors: Ozdemir Dilara , Fleming Derek , Picioreanu Cristian , Patel Robin , Beyenal Haluk
Published: October 2024

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a strong oxidizing agent that damages cells by interacting with lipids, nucleic acids, sulfur-containing amino acids, and membrane components. It is an endogenous substance produced by the immune system to protect mammals from pathogens. Previously, we developed an HOCl-generating electrochemical catheter (e-catheter) and demonstrated its ability to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections. The e-catheter is an electrochemical system consisting of two parts - an e-hub and a tube. Working, counter, and reference electrodes are placed in the e-hub, which contains 0.9% NaCl as an electrolyte. Although a prototype of this device has shown activity against pathogens, it is helpful to understand the factors influencing associated electrochemical/chemical processes to optimize design and efficacy. A mathematical model could predict factors influencing HOCl generation and distribution in the catheter and could aid in optimizing these devices. Here, we developed an Electrochemical Hypochlorous Acid Production (EHAP) model to predict factors influencing electrochemical generation and distribution of HOCl in e-catheters, including polarization time, diffusion of HOCl into the e-catheter, operational voltage, working electrode length, and surface area.
Exploring Two-Dimensional MOF-Derived Co/Ni Species for Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Yu Jia , Zhang Tian , Ren Xiaohui , Chu Weiqing , Guo Qian , Zou Haoran , Liu Zhaoyang , Wu Wenjie , Zhang Lingyu , Yuan Mengna , Li Yang , Ni Hongwei
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has received a lot of attention due to its promising advantages in producing “green hydrogen” via electrocatalysis with low cost and high efficiency. Until now, developing transition metal-based electrocatalysts for HER has been a great challenge. In this regard, we reported a facile strategy to fabricate Co/Ni species encapsulated by carbon structure (CoNi@C) through annealing two-dimensional (2D) metal-organic framework (MOF) nanosheets. The CoNi@C that was prepared under 600 °C achieved the highest catalytic performance in 1.0 M KOH electrolyte with an overpotential of 330 mV to acquire 100 mA cm−2. In addition, the effect of KOH concentrations on the HER performance of CoNi@C-600 was explored. In 3.0 M KOH electrolyte, the current density of 100 mA cm−2 has been attained at a bias potential of 80 mV. The alkaline environment can improve the electrocatalytic performance and further enhance the stability of the as-prepared catalysts. This work would endow promising opportunities for manipulating MOF-based structures through pyrolysis to fabricate highly efficient electrocatalysts.
Esthetic Rehabilitation of the Patient With BOPT, Veneer, and Implant Crown and eLAB Prime System in the Digital Protocol: Case Report
Authors: Mordanov Oleg , Khabadze Zurab
Published: October 2024

Esthetic rehabilitation of patients always involves a number of complexities. These complexities include color, design of the restoration, and soft tissue management. When multiple teeth are restored, there are high demands for optical integration of the restorations into the natural dentition. A second important factor is the soft tissue esthetics, in the area of both implants and natural teeth. One of the techniques for the soft tissue contour management in the area of natural teeth, in particular previously endodontically treated, is the BOPT. This article presents a case of esthetic rehabilitation of a patient with a BOPT crown, an implant‐supported crown, a veneer, and a conventional crown in a digital protocol using the eLAB Prime color detection system.
Recent Trends in Malaria Vaccine Research Globally: A Bibliometric Analysis From 2005 to 2022
Authors: Chutiyami Muhammad
Published: October 2024

Aim: Malaria vaccine is one of the critical areas in tropical health research, considering the success recorded in other vaccine‐preventable diseases. This study is aimed at reviewing recent trends in global malaria vaccine research from 2005 to 2022.

Method: A validated search strategy was undertaken to identify scientific literature on the malaria vaccine in the Scopus database. Bibliometric indicators identified include a pattern of publication growth and citations over the study period; top authors, countries, funding organizations, and journals; keywords, including different malarial parasite species, and the overall research themes.

Result: A total of 6457 documents were found from 2005 to 2022, published in 160 journals/sources in 189 countries/territories. Malaria Journal published the highest number of research outputs (478, 7.4%) within the study period, and the highest number of documents (468, 7.3%) were published in 2021. There were 214,323 total citations, with 33.2 average citations per document and 167 documents’ h‐index. The United States, United Kingdom, and Australia combined produced more than 60% of the publication output, with most collaboration with African countries such as Kenya. Plasmodium falciparum is the most occurring parasite species keyword (754, 11.7%), with a growing interest in Plasmodium knowlesi (30, 0.5%). Merozoite surface protein, characterization, trials, infant/children, traveler, and research/review were the six themes that emerged from the studies.

Conclusion: The last one and half decades have seen a significant increase in malaria vaccine research and citations, mainly targeting vaccine development, safety, and efficacy in Africa. This necessitates more international efforts to improve the vaccines’ effectiveness considering different Plasmodium species.
Posterior‐Only Approach for Management of Complete Posterior Displaced Type II Odontoid Fracture
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Reza , Farrokhi Majid Reza , Jangiaghdam Hamid , Amir Shahpari Motlagh Mohammadhadi
Published: October 2024

Background: Odontoid fracture (OF) is one of the most common spinal fractures. Type II in D’Alonzo’s classification is still the most common and should be considered unstable unless proven otherwise. Thus, surgical stabilization has received significant attention. Although posterior displacement is common in type II OF, complete displacement is extremely rare, and very few reports are available in the literature.

Case Presentation: We report the case of a 60‐year‐old man with acute type II OF with complete posterior displacement and myelopathy. The patient was managed utilizing a posterior‐only single approach for reduction and stabilization.

Conclusion: Posterior displacement of type II OF has been traditionally managed with close reduction and anterior or posterior stabilization. Closed reduction in cases of complete posterior displacement carries a significant risk of neurologic deterioration. Anterior, combined, and posterior approaches have been taken for this condition. The posterior‐only approach in experienced hands has the least mortality and morbidity with at least the same neurologic and fusion outcomes.
A Mail-Based HPV Self-Collection Program to Increase Cervical Cancer Screening in Appalachia: Results of a Group Randomized Trial
Authors: Reiter Paul L. , Shoben Abigail B. , Cooper Sarah , Ashcraft Amie M. , McKim Mitchell Emma , Dignan Mark , Cromo Mark , Walunis Jean , Flinner Deborah , Boatman Dannell , Hauser Lindsay , Ruffin Mack T. , Belinson Jerome L. , Anderson Roger T. , Kennedy-Rea Stephenie , Paskett Electra D. , Katz Mira L.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Despite the promise of mail-based human papillomavirus (HPV) self-collection programs for increasing cervical cancer screening, few have been evaluated in the United States. We report the results of a mail-based HPV self-collection program for underscreened women living in Appalachia.

Methods:

We conducted a group randomized trial from 2021 to 2022 in the Appalachian regions of Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virgnia. Participants were women of ages 30 to 64 years who were underscreened for cervical cancer and from a participating health system. Participants in the intervention group (n = 464) were mailed an HPV self-collection kit followed by telephone-based patient navigation (if needed), and participants in the usual care group (n = 338) were mailed a reminder letter to get a clinic-based cervical cancer screening test. Generalized linear mixed models compared cervical cancer screening between the study groups.

Results:

Overall, 14.9% of participants in the intervention group and 5.0% of participants in the usual care group were screened for cervical cancer. The mail-based HPV self-collection intervention increased cervical cancer screening compared with the usual care group (OR, 3.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.90–5.72; P = 0.005). One or more high-risk HPV types were detected in 10.5% of the returned HPV self-collection kits. Among the participants in the intervention group whom patient navigators attempted to contact, 44.2% were successfully reached.

Conclusions:

HPV self-collection increased cervical cancer screening, and future efforts are needed to determine how to optimize such programs, including the delivery of patient navigation services.

Impact:

Mail-based HPV self-collection programs are a viable strategy for increasing cervical cancer screening among underscreened women living in Appalachia.
Cancer Prevalence across Vertebrates
Authors: Compton Zachary T. , Mellon Walker , Harris Valerie K. , Rupp Shawn , Mallo Diego , Kapsetaki Stefania E. , Wilmot Mallory , Kennington Ryan , Noble Kathleen , Baciu Cristina , Ramirez Lucia N. , Peraza Ashley , Martins Brian , Sudhakar Sushil , Aksoy Selin , Furukawa Gabriela , Vincze Orsolya , Giraudeau Mathieu , Duke Elizabeth G. , Spiro Simon , Flach Edmund , Davidson Hannah , Li Christopher I. , Zehnder Ashley , Graham Trevor A. , Troan Brigid V. , Harrison Tara M. , Tollis Marc , Schiffman Joshua D. , Aktipis C. Athena , Abegglen Lisa M. , Maley Carlo C. , Boddy Amy M.
Published: October 2024

Cancer is pervasive across multicellular species, but what explains the differences in cancer prevalence across species? Using 16,049 necropsy records for 292 species spanning three clades of tetrapods (amphibians, sauropsids, and mammals), we found that neoplasia and malignancy prevalence increases with adult mass (contrary to Peto’s paradox) and somatic mutation rate but decreases with gestation time. The relationship between adult mass and malignancy prevalence was only apparent when we controlled for gestation time. Evolution of cancer susceptibility appears to have undergone sudden shifts followed by stabilizing selection. Outliers for neoplasia prevalence include the common porpoise (<1.3%), the Rodrigues fruit bat (<1.6%), the black-footed penguin (<0.4%), ferrets (63%), and opossums (35%). Discovering why some species have particularly high or low levels of cancer may lead to a better understanding of cancer syndromes and novel strategies for the management and prevention of cancer.

Significance: Evolution has discovered mechanisms for suppressing cancer in a wide variety of species. By analyzing veterinary necropsy records, we can identify species with exceptionally high or low cancer prevalence. Discovering the mechanisms of cancer susceptibility and resistance may help improve cancer prevention and explain cancer syndromes.

See related commentary by Metzger, p. 14
Metabolic Alkalemia in Hypercalciuria Stone Formers: Does It Matter?
Authors: Starek Renato V.M. , Gomes Samirah A. , Helou Claudia M.B.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The literature lacks whether metabolic alkalemia occurs in outpatients with hypercalciuric nephrolithiasis. Thus, we aim to investigate it because these patients are often treated with thiazides to reduce urinary calcium excretion. However, thiazides induce chloride losses due to the inhibition of Na-Cl cotransporter expressed in the renal distal tubule cells. Besides thiazide prescription, many of these patients are also supplemented with potassium citrate, which is an addition of alkali source in their bodies. Methods: We collected clinical, demographic characteristics, and laboratory data from electronic medical charts of outpatients with calcium kidney stones followed in our institution from January 2013 to July 2021. We diagnosed those cases as metabolic alkalemia, in which the venous blood gas tests showed pH ≥7.46 and bicarbonate concentration >26 mEq/L. Then, we applied statistical analysis to compare distinct categories between patients with and without metabolic alkalemia. Results: We diagnosed metabolic alkalemia in 4.3% of hypercalciuric nephrolithiasis outpatients, and we verified that thiazides had been used in all of them except in one case. Furthermore, we observed that the amount of thiazide taken daily was higher in patients with metabolic alkalemia than in those without this imbalance. Additionally, hypokalemia was present in 37% of patients who developed metabolic alkalemia. We also found lower chloride, magnesium and ionic calcium serum concentrations in patients with metabolic alkalemia than in those without an acid-base disequilibrium. Conclusion: Despite the low prevalence of metabolic alkalemia in hypercalciuric kidney stone formers, it is important to monitor these patients due to the high incidence of hypokalemia and the potential presence of other electrolyte disorders.
Prognostic Nutrition Index as a Biomarker for Treatment Sensitivity to Chemotherapy and Nivolumab as the First-Line Treatment in Patients with Unresectable Advanced or Recurrent Gastric Cancer: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Nakazawa Nobuhiro , Sano Akihiko , Kumakura Yuji , Yamashita Toshiki , Tanaka Naritaka , Saito Kana , Kimura Akiharu , Kasuga Kengo , Nakazato Kenji , Yoshinari Daisuke , Shimizu Hisashi , Ubukata Yasunari , Hosaka Hisashi , Shiraishi Takuya , Sakai Makoto , Sohda Makoto , Shirabe Ken , Saeki Hiroshi
Published: October 2024

Introduction: This multicenter study aimed to determine whether the pretreatment prognostic nutrition index (PNI) or a change in the index after two treatment courses could be a biomarker for predicting treatment sensitivity in patients with unresectable advanced or recurrent gastric cancer treated using chemotherapy and nivolumab as the first-line treatment. Methods: This multicenter retrospective study with 104 patients was conducted at 12 institutions. PNI was calculated before treatment and after two courses of treatment in each case. We also focused on changes in PNI from the pretreatment value. Results: After two courses of chemotherapy plus nivolumab treatment, the high PNI group had significantly better rates of overall survival (OS) (p = 0.0016) and time-to-treatment failure (p = 0.0060). Low PNI was an independent prognostic factor predicting both therapeutic sensitivity to chemotherapy plus nivolumab treatment and poorer OS. Furthermore, correlation with low pretreatment PNI transitioning to high after two courses of treatment was not noted in any patient in the progressive disease group (p = 0.0075). Conclusions: PNI is a score composed of a patient’s albumin level and lymphocyte count that can be easily assessed in daily clinical practice. Evaluating it is easy for each treatment; thus, when there is a focus on its transition, PNI could be a very powerful biomarker for predicting treatment sensitivity.
Global, Regional, and National Burden of Brain and Central Nervous System Cancers for Males from 1990 to 2021 and Its Predicted Level in the Next 25 Years
Authors: Maimaiti Aierpati , Tuersun Maidina , Wang Xixian , Mijiti Maimaitili , Wu Hao , Cong Chunyu , Wang Zengliang , Wang Yongxin
Published: October 2024

Background: A study of the global burden of cerebral and central nervous system (CNS) cancers from the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD) indicates that these cancers significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality internationally. To fully understand the global impact of CNS cancer, expanded research efforts are essential. We analyzed the temporal trend of the disease burden from 1990 to 2021 and made projections for the expected burden from 2020 through 2044. Methods: We tapped into GBD 2021 Study data to evaluate CNS cancer incidence and trends among males. Prevalence was assessed with DisMod-MR, trends via cluster analysis, and estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) calculated via linear regression. Forecasts for 2022–2044 used APC and BAPC models, with a p value <0.05 considered significant. Analyses relied on R software 4.0.2. Results: In 2021, males experienced between 148,118 and 232,469 new brain and CNS cancer cases, indicating increased global burden from 1990 to 2021. An observed link between the prevalence’s EAPCs and Human Development Indices (HDIs) suggests higher incidence in more developed regions. Projections using the APC model suggest rising numbers of cases and losses in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) from 2020 to 2044, while age-standardized rates are expected to decrease overall. Conclusions: In summary, a higher Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) correlates with better outcomes for CNS cancer due to early medical interventions in regions with strong healthcare systems. This demonstrates the need for equitable healthcare policies that focus on improving diagnostic capabilities and professional training to enhance survival rates universally.
Aktualisiertes Klassifikationssystem für systemische allergische Reaktionen: Gemeinsame Stellungnahme des World Allergy Organization Anaphylaxis Committee und des Allergen Immunotherapy Committee
Authors: Turner Paul J. , Ansotegui Ignacio J. , Campbell Dianne E. , Cardona Victoria , Carr Stuart , Custovic Adnan , Durham Stephen , Ebisawa Motohiro , Geller Mario , Gonzalez-Estrada Alexei , Greenberger Paul A. , Hossny Elham , Irani Carla , Leung Agnes S. Y. , Levin Michael E. , Muraro Antonella , Oppenheimer John J. , Ortega Martell José Antonio , Pouessel Guillaume , Rial Manuel J. , Senna Gianenrico , Tanno Luciana K. , Wallace Dana V. , Worm Margitta , Morais-Almeida Mário ,   WAO Anaphylaxis Committee,   WAO Allergen Immunotherapy Committee
Published: October 2024

Es gibt keinen Konsens über die Beschreibung und Schweregradeinteilung allergischer Nebenwirkungen bei Immuntherapien, obwohl zumindest hinsichtlich der Verwendung der Klassifikationssysteme der World Allergy Organisation (WAO) zur Beschreibung lokaler unerwünschter Ereignisse bei sublingualer Immuntherapie (SLIT) und systemischer allergischer Reaktionen (SAR) bei subkutaner Immuntherapie (SCIT) ein Konsens zwischen den wichtigsten nationalen/regionalen Allergiegesellschaften zu bestehen scheint. In diesem Artikel wird eine Modifikation des bestehenden WAO-Klassifikationssystems für SAR vorgeschlagen, die mit der neu vorgeschlagenen Klassifikationsskala des Consortium for Food Allergy Research (CoFAR) für systemische allergische Reaktionen bei Lebensmittelallergien (Version 3.0) übereinstimmt. Wir hoffen, dass damit ein einheitliches Klassifikationssystem zur Verfügung steht, das für Berichte über unerwünschte Reaktionen auf eine Allergen-Immuntherapie unabhängig vom Allergen und Verabreichungsweg sowohl in der klinischen Praxis als auch in der Forschung geeignet ist.
Successful Endobronchial Valve Placement in the Treatment of Persistent Bronchopleural Fistula and Empyema Allows the Avoidance of Right Completion Pneumonectomy
Authors: Lardinois Didier , Jahn Kathleen , Hojski Aljaz , Savic Prince Spasenija , Tsvetkov Nikolay , Djakovic Zeljko , Bachmann Helga , Tamm Michael
Published: October 2024

Introduction: This case report addresses the complexity of management of air leak and persisting infection in polymorbid patients. Case Presentation: A 56-year-old former marble mason presented with major hemoptysis. Chest CT revealed severe silicosis and pneumonia with an abscess in the right lower lobe and a pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm. An open lower bilobectomy with empyema debridement was performed, and the posterior upper lobe segment was covered with a serratus anterior muscle flap. The second examination revealed persistent air leakage from the infected posterior upper lobe segment and necrosis of the muscle flap. Atypical resection of this segment was performed, and the surface of the lower part of the remnant lung was covered with a fat flap and then the omentum. The patient was discharged but was readmitted 2 weeks later due to empyema. During reoperation, a persistent infection in the remnant posterior upper lobe segment was observed in addition to a bronchopleural fistula. The only possible surgery that would cure the patient was right completion pneumonectomy. To avoid this high-risk operation, an endobronchial valve was placed intraoperatively in the posterior segment bronchus, leading to closure of the fistula and resolution of the infection. The patient recovered well and was discharged 10 days later. At the 1-year follow-up, the patient was free of symptoms and reported a good quality of life. Conclusion: This case is an excellent example of successful cooperation between an interventional pulmonologist and a thoracic surgeon to avoid right pneumonectomy in a polymorbid patient.
LD-SCLC: Die prognostische Bedeutung des Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) für das Überleben nach Radiochemotherapie
Authors: Otto Susanne , Schütte Wolfgang
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Established biomarkers for predicting chemoradiotherapy efficacy for limited-disease small cell lung cancer (LD-SCLC) are lacking. The inflammation-based Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), comprising serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin levels, can predict survival in advanced cancer. This study investigated whether metabolic and inflammatory markers, including the GPS, can predict the efficacy of chemoradiotherapy in patients with LD-SCLC. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 124 patients who underwent chemoradiotherapy for LD-SCLC at two institutions between April 2007 and June 2021, and assessed the prognostic significance of various metabolic and inflammatory markers. The GPS was calculated using the CRP and albumin concentrations, and categorized as follows: 0, CRP <1.0 mg/dL and albumin ≥3.5 mg/dL; 1, elevated CRP or decreased albumin; and 2, CRP ≥1.0 mg/dL and albumin<3.5 mg/dL. Differences in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were examined using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional-hazard models. Results: The overall response rate was 95.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 89.6-97.9%). The median PFS and OS from chemoradiotherapy initiation were 12.6 (95% CI: 9.9-15.4) and 29.0 (95% CI: 24.8-45.5) months, respectively. The GPS demonstrated independent predictive ability for the effectiveness of chemoradiotherapy, wherein favorable scores (GPS 0-1) were significantly correlated with superior PFS and OS compared to unfavorable scores (GPS 2: PFS: 14.8 vs. 6.7 months, p = 0.0001; OS: 35.4 vs. 11.0 months, p < 0.0001).
“Should I Let Them Know I Have This?”: Multifaceted Genetic Discrimination and Limited Awareness of Legal Protections among Individuals with Hereditary Cancer Syndromes
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Ridhi , Sam Jordan , Butkowsky Carly , Reble Emma , Clausen Marc , Rajeziesfahani Sepideh , Sparkes Brooklyn , Aguda Vernie , Aronson Melyssa , Bishop Derrick , Dawson Lesa , Eisen Andrea , Graham Tracy , Green Jane , Mighton Chloe , Pauling Julee , Pavao Claudia , Pechlivanoglou Petros , Remocker Catriona , Savas Sevtap , Sun Sophie , Tiano Teresa , Tilley Angelina , Schrader Kasmintan , Etchegary Holly , Bombard Yvonne
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Hereditary cancer syndromes (HCS), such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome (LS), represent approximately 10% of all cancers. Along with medical burdens associated with the genetic risk of developing cancer, many individuals face stigma and discrimination. Genetic discrimination refers to negative treatment, unfair profiling, or harm based on genetic characteristics, manifesting as “felt” stigma (ostracization without discriminatory acts) or “enacted” stigma (experiencing discriminatory acts). This study aimed to describe concerns and experiences of genetic discrimination faced by individuals with HCS. Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with individuals with molecularly confirmed HCS residing in Ontario, British Columbia, and Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Purposive sampling was applied to obtain a diverse sample across demographic characteristics. Study procedures were informed by interpretive description; data were thematically analyzed using constant comparison. Results: Seventy-three participants were interviewed (39 HBOC, 34 LS; 51 females, 21 males, 1 gender-diverse; aged 25–80). Participants described multifaceted forms of genetic discrimination across healthcare, insurance, employment, and family/social settings. Participants valued the Genetic Nondiscrimination Act’s protective intent but demonstrated limited knowledge of its existence and provisions. Limited knowledge, coupled with policy constraints in non-legislative settings and third-party use of proxy genetic information, hindered participants’ ability to whistleblow or seek recourse. Conclusion: Our results illuminate a disconnection between the intended protective effects of genetic nondiscrimination legislation and ongoing genetic discrimination faced by individuals with hereditary conditions. To better support these individuals, this study encourages public outreach and knowledge translation efforts to increase awareness of nondiscrimination legal protections.
Substituting Vorlagen
Authors: Stackert Jeffrey
Published: October 2024

This short note responds to Ellen De Doncker’s recent VT article, “Substituting Anthropomorphisms? God’s Mouth in Num 20:24 and the Possibility of a Different Vorlage.” It proposes an alternative Vorlage for LXX Num 20:24 that offers a better semantic match with the LXX translation of this verse.
Kufic Epigraphy between Norman Sicily and Ifriqiya
Authors: Fein Ariel
Published: October 2024

Current scholarship on the role of Islamic art in the formation of Norman Sicilian material cultures argues for the importing of artistic traditions from Fatimid Egypt. This Palermo—Cairo axis overshadows the cultural ties that linked Sicily with nearby Ifriqiya (modern-day Tunisia and Algeria), narrowly separated by the Strait of Sicily. This article explores the epigraphic and visual ties between Sicily and Ifriqiya through extant Kufic epigraphs. It presents for the first time the inscriptions of the Santa Maria di Terreti Church near Reggio Calabria, Italy, and the San Giovanni degli Eremiti and Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio churches in Palermo, Sicily. Previously dismissed as pseudo-Kufic, these fragments preserve true texts whose ornament and epigraphy correspond to the visual traditions of Zirid Ifriqiya. They offer an alternative perspective to the notion of cultural discontinuity that has guided recent research on the arts of Norman Sicily, instead pointing to medium-specific continuity bridging pre-Norman and Norman rule.
Green Reading: Books and the Outdoors in the Early Modern Ottoman World
Authors: Kafadar Cemal
Published: October 2024

Before silent and private reading in enclosed spaces became paramount with an overwhelming preference for libraries or private rooms, oral and social reading was far more common, and it took place out-of-doors to a considerable degree. Visual depictions of poets and scholars, and of the reading public in general in the early modern Ottoman world include many representations of people engaged in “green reading,” namely, reading outdoors in open air or in semi-outdoors in close touch with nature. Several developments before and after the turn of the eighteenth century indicate the emergence of new preferences with regard to practices of reading and learning, and a new attitude toward the relationship between orality and literacy. Certain innovations that would only gain strength in later centuries—such as building freestanding libraries; experimenting with musical notation; expanding the means and role of printed books; and, most importantly for this essay, prioritizing mutālaʿa, or private and analytical reading—are among the noteworthy developments that signaled the gradual demise of a regime of reading practices that once recognized a larger role for oral, public, and green reading and that did not consider the book and its silent reader in an enclosed space as the best vehicle for the production and transmission of authoritative knowledge.
Litigating Indonesian Forests for Climate: Hendrikus Woro v Provincial Government of Papua
Authors: Wardana Agung
Published: October 2024

The forestry sector has been the biggest contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Indonesia. The palm oil industry has been highlighted because it defines how the country can achieve emissions reduction as pledged internationally. Domestically, however, the government continues to expand the industry further to Papua, the last forest frontier, which has been resisted by indigenous communities utilising climate litigation. This article reviews the climate change litigation case initiated by the Awyu Tribe of Papua and demonstrates its relevance to the debate on climate policy in the country. The article questions the legality of court rulings that sustain the validity of environmental approval without prior Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) review and the court’s refusal to examine climate impacts in the proposed project’s EIA document. Consequently, the court decision disrupts the newly established doctrine and practice to incorporate climate assessment within the country’s EIA system.
A revision of Anadolua (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Tettigoniinae) based on morphological and bioacoustic characters: Newly confirmed data suggesting a new synonym and two new species
Authors: ŞİRİN DENIZ , TAYLAN MEHMET SAIT , SEVGİLİ HASAN , AKYILDIZ DILAN HEVRA , GÜNGÖR OĞUZHAN
Published: October 2024

In the present paper, a number of twelve populations of genus Anadolua have been studied by focusing on their morphological and bioacoustic characters. Both bioacoustics and morphological CDF analyses (especially in males) indicate the existence of two new species (A. bergeri sp. nov. and A. moli sp. nov.) and of a new synonym (A. burri syn. nov. synonymized with A. schwarzi). The description of the two new species and the redescription of A. schwarzi are provided with IUCN categories, suggestions and figures, which would comprehensively illustrate the species representing the Anatolian members of genus Anadolua. Two bioacoustic song types (schwarzi and bergeri) are found for Anadolua according to temporal and spectral parameters data of the male calling song. Also presented are the morphological and bioacoustic keys to species of Anadolua. The distribution modelling methods of the species have been carried out for Anadolua species. It has been concluded that the dramatic decrease occurring in potentially suitable habitats necessitates the development in the near future of some conservation action plans for all species of Anadolua.
New species and records of the genus Laena Dejean (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Lagriinae) from the Malay Peninsula
Authors: SCHAWALLER WOLFGANG , BELLERSHEIM ARON
Published: October 2024

From the Malay Peninsula (West Malaysia) 18 species of the genus Laena Dejean, 1821 are known so far. Additional two species are described herein as new: L. johoria sp. nov. and L. ledangica sp. nov. They originate exclusively from the southernmost, hitherto less explored Malaysian Federal State of Johor. Some new records of known Malaysian species are also listed.
Who is Afraid of the Istanbul Convention? Explaining Opposition to and Support for Gender Equality
Authors: Krizsán Andrea , Roggeband Conny , Zeller Michael C.
Published: October 2024

Across Europe, contention has emerged over the Istanbul Convention, a treaty combatting violence against women. The Convention has become a main arena for contention over gender and sexual equality. Right-wing forces mobilize nationally—and transnationally—to advocate for traditional values and oppose so-called ‘gender ideology’, while progressive actors resist efforts to curtail women’s rights. Consequently, while many have ratified the Convention, several countries have not. This article asks which causes motive ratification; which causes underlie non-ratification? We present a qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) on 40 European states to disentangle the causal complexity of ratification decisions. We identify four pathways for ratification, driven by feminist egalitarian norms, international conditionality, pro-European governments at odds with social opposition, and societies unwilling to mobilize for conservative religious institutions. We unpack these causal patterns in four minimalist case studies. The article reveals causation underlying contention between pro-gender, anti-gender, and state actors, and resultant policy outcomes.
Embodying wilfulness: Investigating the unequal power dynamics of informal organisational body work through the case of women in stand-up comedy
Authors: Jammaers Eline , van Eck Dide , Cinque Silvia
Published: October 2024

Women who step into the spotlight may be burdened with managing their sexualised bodies, unlike men. This is true also in stand-up comedy, where more women than ever are entering the field. Investigating this unequally distributed body work, we use Sara Ahmed’s idea of the wilful subject to spot naturalised beliefs of women as unfunny who ‘will too much’. We do so through a qualitative study carried out with 26 professionals. We contribute by showing how ‘informal’ organisational body work, which comprises the purposeful efforts workers undertake on their and others’ bodies as part of informal role demands, is underpinned by diversity-related power dynamics. Anticipating how the burden of such ‘work’ does not fall equally on the shoulders of everyone is key in imagining more egalitarian futures of work. We demonstrate the embodied and political merits of wilfulness as an analytical tool focusing on the historically persistent labelling of women as wilful, a difficult-to-spot inequality, while taking into account how such wilfulness charges are mobilised by the target. Inspired by queering and cripping, we introduce the term ‘hagging’ to indicate women reclaiming positions of power and reappropriating their sexual objectification in male-dominated sexist environments.
An Investigation Into the Unconscious Influence of Mortality Salience Upon Sentencing Decisions
Authors: Robinson Bethan , Stubbings Daniel R. , Davies Joseph L. , Skillicorn Deiniol
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to explore if unconscious awareness of death influences the harshness of offender sentencing. According to Terror Management Theory death is anxiety-provoking, and self-esteem and a belief in a shared cultural worldview keep anxiety at bay. When these factors are challenged then death awareness increases. These dynamics could be relevant in a court setting in which judges have to make decisions regarding offenders who may have different world views and in cases that trigger the awareness of mortality. We used subliminal priming to activate the awareness of death and recorded the effect it had on decision-making against a hypothetical offender. Participants ( N = 303) were recruited and randomly assigned to either an experimental mortality condition or a neutral control condition. Analysis revealed that death-related subliminal priming brought about harsher sentencing effects than the control. The results suggest that subconscious awareness of death may bias decision-making when sentencing.
LWFDD-YOLO: a lightweight defect detection algorithm based on improved YOLOv8
Authors: Chen Chang , Zhou Qihong , Xiao Lei , Li Shujia , Luo Dong
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the existing fabric defect detection algorithms with their suboptimal detection accuracy, high model complexity, difficult deployment to the edge of the device, and insufficient ability to meet the problem of real-time detection of fabric defects, we propose a lightweight fabric defect detection model (LWFDD-YOLO) based on the improved YOLOv8n. First, a generalized efficient layer attention network with selective kernel attention (GELAN_SKA) is proposed to replace the C2f module, and selective kernel attention is added to the module to adjust the weights of the convolution kernel according to the different features of different scales, reduce the use of computational resources, thus improving the model’s detection performance and efficiency. Second, a cascaded group attention (CGA) mechanism is added to provide a different input segmentation for each head to enhance the feature diversity of the input attention heads and improve the model’s computational efficiency. An ultra-lightweight dynamic up-sampling operator (Dy_sample) is introduced, which employs a point-sampling-based approach to reduce the consumption of computational resources and improve model performance. Finally, the YOLOv8l framework is utilized to construct a complex model teacher network and the features learned from the teacher network are transferred to the lightweight network proposed in this paper, thus further improving the model performance of the algorithm. The experimental results show that on the self-built fabric defect dataset, the accuracy, recall, and mean average precision ( mAP) of our algorithm reach 89.4%, 85.2%, and 87.9%, which are 8.9%, 7.2%, and 4.5% higher than the original model, respectively, the number of parameters of the model decreases by 23.4%, the amount of GFLOPs decreases by 25.6%, and the file size is only 9.2 MB. The detection speed can reach 163.4 FPS on GPU. On the AliCloud Tian Chi dataset, the accuracy, recall, and mAP were also improved by 7.4%, 2%, and 4.4%, respectively. The LWFDD-YOLO algorithm proposed in this study can realize real-time detection of fabric defects with relatively obvious improvement in accuracy, and the model requires less memory and is easier to deploy to edge devices, so can be used as a reference for real-time detection of fabric defects.
In What Institutional Contexts Do Adult Community College Students Prosper?
Authors: Bahr Peter Riley , Chen Yiran , Boeck Claire A. , Clasing-Manquian Paula , Cummins Phyllis
Published: October 2024

Objective: Policymakers in many states are endeavoring to increase graduation rates among older community college students. However, we know little about how the factors that influence college completion among older students differ from their younger peers. We aim to identify features of institutional contexts in which adult community college students are more likely to prosper, as evidenced by an elevated likelihood of graduating. Methods: Using a multilevel statistical approach to analyze administrative data for Ohio’s community colleges, we examine how associations between students’ age and their likelihood of graduating differ as a function of dosage-weighted exposure to six contextual characteristics that align with the organizational, human aggregate, and socially constructed dimensions of Strange and Banning’s (2015) socioecological framework for campus environments. Results: Contrary to expectations, we find more similarities than differences between older and younger students in how exposure to particular institutional characteristics is related to the likelihood of graduating. Only one of the six characteristics has a relationship of meaningful magnitude with the likelihood of graduating among students of any age. Specifically, exposure to classmates taking heavier course credit loads is positively related to the likelihood of graduating for students 40 years of age and older. Conclusion: Our findings point to two potential levers for strengthening outcomes of older students as community colleges seek to become adult- serving not just adult- enrolling. First, incentivize a full-time course load across the student population. Second, create opportunities for adult students, many of whom attend part-time, to take classes with a range of classmates, including younger classmates and classmates who are attending full-time.
The Interdependent Nature of Well-Being: Evidence From American and Japanese Spouses
Authors: Asano Ryosuke , Kanemasa Yuji , Komura Kentaro , Ito Kenichi
Published: October 2024

The present study investigated spousal interdependencies in well-being and the sources of these interdependencies among Americans and Japanese. We collected high-powered three-wave longitudinal and cross-sectional data from a wide age range of participants ( Ns = 3,012 American couples aged 26–96 and 2,307 Japanese couples aged 24–76) and assessed a variety of well-being measures. Study 1 replicated previous findings that American spouses’ well-being was positively associated with each other. Studies 2a and 2b generalized the findings of Study 1 to Japanese spouses. Both Studies 1 and 2b showed conflicting results: There were effects of mutual influence and shared environmental factors’ influences on American and Japanese spouses’ well-being in a longitudinal actor-partner interdependence model when using the cross-lagged panel model, but not when using the random intercept cross-lagged panel model. These findings illustrate that the interdependent nature of well-being is an essential feature of American and Japanese married couples.
The role of reflection in learner identity construction. A sociocultural and dialogical approach / El papel de la reflexión en el proceso de construcción de la identidad de aprendiz. Una aproximación sociocultural y dialógica
Authors: Martín Ortega Elena , Solari Maccabelli Mariana
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this article is to present a theoretical-conceptual proposal that enables us to articulate two psychological processes that play an essential role in different educational settings yet are seldom explicitly addressed together: identity construction and reflection processes. Specifically, we will analyse the way reflection is a prime tool for reconstructing learner identity. In the first part, we conceptualize reflection processes from a sociocultural and dialogical approach. In the second part, we explain our theoretical approach to identity construction processes, define the concept of learner identity and highlight the role played by reflection in identity construction. To conclude, we will suggest several guidelines for promoting student reflection on their own learning processes and on themselves as learners with the goal of facilitating their development of an enabling learner identity that allows them to continue learning in different settings and times in their lives.
The scent of the king: Notes on use and subversion of a Hellenistic topos in the account of Antiochus IV’s death (2 Macc 9)
Authors: D’Amico Davide
Published: October 2024

This article discusses the narrative of Antiochus IV’s death in 2 Maccabees 9, showing how, alongside themes and motifs from the biblical tradition, it draws its imagery from a Hellenistic topos based on the connection between royal power and aromas. Through the subversion of categories functional in celebrating a ruler’s greatness, such as the perfumed body or the great availability of aromata, it will be seen how the narrative in 2 Macc 9 portraying Antiochus’ decaying body characterized by intolerable stench deconstructs the image of the Seleucid by depicting him in contrast to idealized representations of great kings such as Alexander the Great, whose perfumed body remains immaculate even after death.
Two birds, one story: Identifying the Exagoge’s mysterious bird
Authors: Wykes James
Published: October 2024

In the Hellenistic poem known as the Exagoge, Moses’ scouts, after discussing the oasis of Elim, describe a resplendent avian creature that is understood by most scholars today as the mythical Phoenix. A closer look at the arguments underpinning this identification reveals, however, numerous holes. This article presents a two-part argument, first to reveal the weaknesses of the arguments in support of the Phoenix, and then to propose an alternate solution to the identification: the bird known as the ortygometra (often erroneously identified simply as a quail). In the first half, the arguments of Howard Jacobson, who most vigorously defends the Phoenix identity, are evaluated, drawing mostly upon the work of an underappreciated article by Ben Zion Wacholder and Samuel Bowman. Once the weakness of these arguments is established and the alternative theory of the ortygometra proposed, the second half of the paper looks first at the history of the term “ortygometra” in Greek and Latin, from Aristotle through Augustine, revealing that the term was either collapsed into a synonym for “quail” or its identity was kept distinct. Following this is an analysis of the biblical quail narratives (in the MT, LXX, and Vulgate) and a selection of exegeses, which ultimately exposes the fluidity with which the story is treated by subsequent writings. In particular, the explanations found in the Wisdom of Solomon and the Pseudo-Augustinian text De mirabilibus Sacrae Scripturae demonstrate that the ortygometra had gathered more than a few “mythical” characteristics in its journey through tradition. Returning to the Exagoge with these insights yields a more satisfactory identity for the bird and potential witnesses to an early form of the “legendary ortygometra” tradition found in Wisdom and De mirabilibus.
Introduction: Special issue on the discourses of poverty
Authors: Paterson Laura L , van der Bom Isabelle
Published: October 2024

Recent global statistics reveal a concerning increase in extreme poverty, exacerbated by social and political upheavals such as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crises. Despite poverty being a well-established research topic in various fields, linguistic analyses remain scant. This special issue on the discourses of poverty, of which this introduction is a part, explores the multifaceted nature of poverty through a discourse analytical lens, highlighting the complexity and diversity of how poverty is experienced across different contexts. The contributions within this issue demonstrate how discourse shapes public understanding, policy formulation, and societal attitudes towards poverty, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive approach that amplifies marginalised voices. By examining the language surrounding poverty and meaningfully engaging with individuals who have experienced it, this issue calls for more critical linguistic research to challenge well-established ideologies about poverty. It also aims to address the assumptions researchers make about what poverty is, what it feels like, who it affects, and how it can be eradicated, thereby hopefully contributing, albeit in a small way, to fostering social change.
Documenting ordinary stories: Local studies collections in public libraries
Authors: Forsyth Ellen
Published: October 2024

This paper describes research to consider how practices for local studies collections in Australian public libraries might need to shift to ensure that as well as including the historical past, that recent and current concerns and interests of the community are appropriately collected and reflected in their collections. This research used ethnography as a method to explore one public library in detail. Drawing on the metaphor of mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors, the research results describe how a social justice framework for local studies collecting in public libraries could ensure greater inclusion and equity. Such approaches can amplify voices that may have been silenced and enable people and themes with little visibility to be much more visible within local studies collections in public libraries. The conclusion is that a social justice approach to local studies collections in public libraries has the potential to provide a more representative record of the community as a wider range of voices and stories are documented, collected, preserved and made available for research and other uses.