bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Locating Contemporary Indian Federalism: Contextualising the Trends of Centralisation with Changing Dynamics
Authors: Sharma Mool Raj
Published: August 2023

Indian federalism is a peculiar model designed to accomplish the necessities of a heterogeneous and multifaceted society. The constitutional framework of federalism spells out that the fate of the states rests with the centre, as the centre can alter it with consultation but without taking consent from the concerned states. The justification offered for such a design during the Constituent Assembly deliberations was to thwart the centrifugal forces that had caused the partition of the subcontinent. The post-independence issues emerged due to several circumstances that influenced federalism in a political milieu where one party, the Congress, held dominance for the first two decades. This phase of Indian federalism was less contentious than the subsequent phase because of consensual politics but opposition and confrontation later appeared with the rise of oppositional politics and regional autonomy demands. In the 1990s, Indian federalism experienced a shift where regionalisation and federalisation of political parties reshaped the federal context along with other factors. Also, this was a volatile phase followed by a bi-nodal alliance system that brought political stability at the national level. The BJP scripted landmark victories in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections that unleashed new challenges and strengthened the trends of centralisation. Besides centralisation, federal cooperation found space through several initiatives of the centre. Thus, the article investigates how Indian federalism functions in a variegated system by emphasising the contemporary trends of centralisation with changing dynamics.
Cooperation on Non-Traditional Security: India–Pakistan and the Locust Attack
Authors: Mahsood Yaseen , Mirza Muhammad Nadeem
Published: August 2023

The two nuclear-armed states of South Asia, India and Pakistan, besides being arch-rivals face common non-traditional security challenges. A recent example indicates that, despite having differences, they cooperated to successfully deal with the locust upsurge of 2019–2020. This study looks at why and how they arrived at joint efforts to thwart this non-traditional security threat. To set the context for this, it also explores the phases of the locust cycle and the reason why it constitutes a potential threat to the food security of both India and Pakistan. The study finds that the chances of cooperation between hostile states may increase if there are mutual threats in the non-traditional security realm. It further concludes that the chances of cooperation between the belligerent states increase if they are part of regional and international mechanisms to deal with the threats.
Deconstructing the Metanarratives of China’s Engagement with the African Continent: African Agency and Competing Narratives
Authors: Mann Anant Singh
Published: August 2023

China’s relationship with the African continent has faced extensive critique over the past few decades, with most explanations broadly falling under the umbrella of three metanarratives: a ‘developing partner’, an ‘economic competitor’ or a ‘hegemonic actor’.1Although these labels help to make intelligible the broad intentions of China’s interaction on the continent, they unwittingly gloss over the importance of choice and agency that the African nations continue to hold in deciding their future trajectories. Essentially, deconstructing these narratives to uncover the principal characteristics of China’s approach to the African continent is the central puzzle of this study. The study further questions the extent to which the agency of African nations determines their relationship with China. This article essentially proposes that while each of the three descriptions provides an insight into the various facets of the Sino-African relationship, none of them captures the whole picture, and instead, China’s approach to the African continent is best understood by its pragmatism, which is guided by its political aspirations and economic objectives. Furthermore, the study argues that the agency of each African nation also plays a part in shaping how China’s pragmatic approach further translates into one of the three metanarratives. The article relies on an inductive exploration of its central research question and uses a variety of sources, which include data from international institutions and governments, government releases and secondary literature, amongst others.
Barriers to Disclosure of Intimate Partner Violence Among Undocumented Spanish-Speaking Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Zero Odette , Tobin-Tyler Elizabeth , Goldman Roberta E.
Published: August 2023

Undocumented monolingual Spanish-speaking immigrants are one of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups to experience intimate partner violence (IPV) in the United States. This paper explores the barriers that prevent IPV disclosure in healthcare settings. Qualitative interviews ( n = 14) were conducted with previously undocumented Spanish-speaking legal clients of a community domestic violence agency. The major barriers expressed by the interviewees regarding IPV screening and disclosure include limited opportunities for IPV screening, misinformation about legal rights from abusers, fear of deportation and separation from children, and lack of knowledge about resources.
Feline minor salivary gland adenocarcinoma: retrospective case series and literature review
Authors: Morgado Laureano Monica , Volker Mary Krakowski , Tjepkema Jennifer , Sánchez Melissa D
Published: August 2023

Case series summary

Salivary gland adenocarcinoma, of major or minor salivary gland origin, is an uncommon tumor in cats. This article describes the clinical features, morbidity and survival rates of four cats with salivary gland adenocarcinoma arising from minor salivary gland tissue. Medical records from a private multicenter dentistry and oral surgery practice were reviewed for the period between 2007 and 2021. Four cats were included in this retrospective case series study, with oral masses on either the right or left caudal mandibular labial buccal mucosa. The inclusion criteria included a diagnosis of salivary gland adenocarcinoma in an anatomical location with lack of involvement of a major salivary gland, complete medical history and a follow-up of at least 6 months. The age range of the cats was 9–15 years; three of the cats were castrated males and one was a spayed female. Curative intent surgery was performed in three cats, whereas palliative surgery (debulking) owing to extensive soft tissue invasion was performed in one cat. Survival times were in the range of 210–1730 (mean 787) days. All four cats were euthanized owing to local recurrence and decreased quality of life, regardless of treatment modality.

Relevance and novel information

There are limited documented studies reporting the prevalence of salivary gland neoplasia affecting minor disseminated glands in the oral cavity of feline patients. Salivary gland adenocarcinoma should be a differential in cats presenting with caudal labial masses. Surgical resection has been the recommended treatment for salivary gland neoplasia of major salivary gland origin. According to this current case series, we propose that early aggressive surgical treatment with wide surgical margins should be performed for cats with salivary gland adenocarcinoma of minor salivary gland origin. Surgery increased the quality and duration of life; however, each patient was euthanized owing to local recurrence and morbidity.
Synchronous computer-mediated communication and task-based learning in the EFL classroom
Authors: Young Anthony , Son Jeong-Bae
Published: August 2023

Synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) offers second/foreign language (L2/FL) learners’ interactional environments that are unique to face-to-face (F2F) communication. Such modes have the potential to facilitate better learning outcomes under certain conditions. The aim of this study was to compare the capacity of two online modes – text chat and voice chat – to promote uptake of targeted vocabulary in an English as a foreign language (EFL) classroom setting. Three distinct tasks (opinion exchange, dictogloss, problem-solving task) were used to measure the effectiveness of both modes to facilitate immediate and delayed uptake compared to F2F communication. The study investigated: (1) how task design and communication mode affected EFL uptake; (2) the effect time allocation had; and (3) the degree to which task perceptions differed depending on communication mode. The effectiveness of the three modes and tasks was measured using a series of pre-tests and post-tests. Post-questionnaires and interviews were also conducted to gain insight into the participants’ perceptions of the tasks. The investigation revealed both similarities and differences in the way SCMC and F2F communication affected learner uptake and demonstrated that certain task design features, such as input, time allocation, and goal orientation, can play a role in the effectiveness of text chat and voice chat to promote uptake in the EFL classroom.
Autistic adults show enhanced generosity to socially distant others
Authors: Forbes Paul AG , Chaliani Irini , Schilbach Leonhard , Kalenscher Tobias
Published: August 2023

Sharing resources is fundamental for human cooperation and survival. People tend to share resources more with individuals they feel close to compared to those who are more socially distant. This decline in generosity at increasing social distance is called social discounting and is influenced by both social traits and abilities, such as empathy, and non-social psychological factors, such as decision-making biases. People who receive a diagnosis of autism show differences in social interaction as well as displaying differences in non-social domains, such as more restricted and repetitive behaviours. We investigated social discounting in autism and found that autistic adults were more generous than neurotypical participants, which was driven by greater generosity to socially distant others. Crucially, we also investigated framing effects during prosocial decision-making. Autistic participants were less susceptible to whether decisions were framed as causing monetary gains, compared to preventing monetary losses, for the potential recipient. Our results support the view of ‘enhanced rationality’ in autism as participants’ prosocial decisions were less influenced by potential biasing information, such as the closeness of the recipient or how choices were framed. Therefore, the differences seen in autism, as well as posing certain challenges, can also have prosocial consequences.

Lay abstract

Autistic people show differences in their social behaviour. But how autism affects decisions to share resources, an important part of cooperation, was previously unclear. In our study, participants made decisions about how to share money with different people, including people they felt close to, such as a friend, and people they felt less close to, such as a stranger. We found that compared to a group of non-autistic participants, autistic adults shared more money overall and this was driven by greater generosity to strangers. The results suggest that autistic adults were more generous because they made fair decisions (an equal split of the money) more consistently regardless of how close they felt to the person they were sharing with. By showing that autistic adults display greater generosity, our results could help to change public perceptions of autism and potentially improve opportunities for autistic people.
A comparison of the presentations of males and females with autism spectrum disorder and those narrowly below the diagnostic threshold
Authors: Tsirgiotis Joanna M , Young Robyn L , Weber Nathan
Published: August 2023

Little is currently known about the autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-related difficulties of females narrowly below the ASD diagnostic threshold and whether the disorder conceptualisation should be broadened to capture their presentations. We extracted fine-grained information from the assessment reports of 222 children who were either diagnosed with ASD ( n = 156) or not diagnosed despite many ASD traits ( n = 78). Females were less likely than males to meet Criterion B3 (restricted interests), and this was especially the case for subclinical (non-ASD) females. Non-ASD females lacked sufficient atypicality for diagnosis in several key domains, particularly Criterion A1 (social-emotional reciprocity). Evidence of sex/gender1-specific restricted interests and stereotypical behaviours was found. Many behaviours differed in the extent to which they predicted the ASD diagnostic result for males and females, perhaps suggesting that sex/gender influences how ASD-related behaviours are perceived. We discuss these findings in the context of underdiagnosis of ASD in females and propose adjustments to assessment protocols.

Lay Abstract

Most research about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in females has looked at autistic features in people who have already received diagnoses. Because our understanding of ASD has been shaped by the difficulties of males, females may experience different difficulties and may not meet the criteria for diagnosis because of a skewed concept of ASD. We extracted detailed information from the assessment reports of 222 children who were either diagnosed with ASD (156 children) or not diagnosed despite many ASD traits (78 children). Females were less likely to have restricted interests, especially females who did not receive an ASD diagnosis. Females who did not receive an ASD diagnosis tended to show more ability in social and emotional reciprocity than what would qualify them for a diagnosis. We also found sex-/gender-specific profiles of body use and speech mannerisms. Many behaviours were more closely linked with an ASD diagnosis for males and others for females, suggesting that behaviours may be interpreted differently depending on the child’s sex/gender. We discuss implications for assessing females for ASD in the context of this evidence.
Fewer children with autism spectrum disorder with motor challenges receive physical and recreational therapies compared to standard therapies: A SPARK data set analysis
Authors: Bhat Anjana N
Published: August 2023

Approximately 85% of children with autism spectrum disorder from the SPARK study receiving standard interventions such as speech-language and occupational therapies. In contrast, only 32%–13% of children with autism spectrum disorder received movement therapies such as physical and recreational therapies, respectively. Little is known about how service receipt changes as a function of children’s motor difficulties. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder completed online surveys to provide a report of their child’s motor difficulties using the Developmental Coordination Disorder–Questionnaire as well as the various therapies their child received (speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, applied behavioral analysis, social skill interventions, recreational therapy) by location (at school, privately/in community, or both). While movement therapies (occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreational therapy) increased with increasing motor risk and severity, there continued to be large disparities in physical therapy (37%–55%) and recreational therapy (15%–19%) compared to occupational therapy (85%–92%) across various settings indicating clear unmet needs for specific motor services given that 88.3% of this sample of children with autism spectrum disorder is at risk for motor difficulties/Developmental Coordination Disorder. Developmental Coordination Disorder–Questionnaire fine- and gross-motor subscale scores were fairly comparably affected yet physical therapy/recreational therapy were less received versus occupational therapy. These findings explain the paucity of physical therapy/recreational therapy and physical activity programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and the need for movement experts to receive appropriate access and training to work with individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Lay Abstract

There are clear disparities in motor services provided to children with autism spectrum disorder (physical and recreational therapies) compared to their standard therapies (speech-language and occupational therapies). Children with autism spectrum disorder need greater access to and funding for motor services (physical and recreational therapies) and physical activity programs. Movement experts including PTs, adapted physical educators, and community exercise/sports coaches/professionals need basic, specialized, and continuing education training to meet the needs of children and adults with autism spectrum disorder not only for providing early developmental and school-based services but also for ensuring appropriate built environments and providing general physical therapy/adapted physical education services as well as physical activity programs.
Oral health-care practices and dental assistance management strategies for people with autism spectrum disorder: An integrative literature review
Authors: Pimentel Júnior Nadson Soares , de Barros Sandra Garrido , de Jesus Filho Ednaldo , Vianna Maria Isabel Pereira , Santos Carla Maria Lima , Cangussu Maria Cristina Teixeira
Published: August 2023

Autism spectrum disorder requires a careful approach from professionals and a favorable clinical environment for dental care and assistance. This article aims To perform a literature review about oral health among people with autism spectrum disorder and dental management strategies for this group. An integrative literature review was carried out in three databases, associating the descriptors: (autism or autism spectrum disorder) with (oral health or oral diseases) and (dental care or dental services). After identification and screening steps, 32 articles were included in the study. The most prevalent subjects were oral health conditions, parents’ understanding and practical attitudes about oral health, treatment and management strategies, and the use of technology. The principal barriers to dental care were the scarcity of specialized professionals, unpreparedness in the referral system, poor accessibility of the clinics, and lack of specific care protocols. The world literature on the subject is scarce, and there is still a need for investment and scientific production due to the incidence of autism in the world population and the maintenance of difficulties and barriers in offering quality health care to this group.

Lay abstract

Autism spectrum disorder requires a more careful approach from oral health professionals and a favorable clinical environment related to dental care and assistance. This article has the objective to perform a literature review about the oral health-care knowledge and practices in people with autism spectrum disorder, as well as the characteristics of dental care for this group. It was carried out in three articles databases, associating descriptors such as autism or autism spectrum disorder; oral health or oral diseases; dental care or dental services. We identified 32 articles. The most prevalent subjects were oral health conditions, treatment strategies, parents’ understanding and practical attitudes about oral health, management, and use of technology to improve oral health care. The principal barriers to people with autism spectrum disorder to access dental care were the scarcity of specialized professionals, unpreparedness in the referral system, poor accessibility of the clinics, and lack of specific care protocols. The world literature on the subject is scarce, and there is still a need for investment and scientific production due to the incidence of autism in the world population and the maintenance of difficulties and barriers in offering quality health care to this group.
Experimental and finite element analysis of reinforced concrete multi-cell box girders retrofitted with carbon fiber reinforced polymer strips under torsion
Authors: Allawi Abbas A , Chai Hwa Kian , Majeed Abeer A , El-Zohairy Ayman , Al-Sherrawi Mohannad H , Edaan Esraa M , Ibrahim Teghreed H
Published: August 2023

This study expands the state of the art in studies that assess torsional retrofit of reinforced concrete (RC) multi-cell box girders with carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) strips. The torsional behavior of non-damaged and pre-damaged RC multi-cell box girder specimens externally retrofitted by CFRP strips was investigated through a series of laboratory experiments. It was found that retrofitting the pre-damaged specimens with CFRP strips increased the ultimate torsional capacity by more than 50% as compared to the un-damaged specimens subjected to equivalent retrofitting. This indicated that the retrofit has been less effective for the girder specimen that did not develop distortion beforehand as a result of pre-loading. From experimental observations, when the girder specimen was cracked and the transverse steel reinforcement bars started straining, the CFRP strips started to work more effectively and contributed together with the transverse steel reinforcement to resist torsion load. Additionally, Finite Element (FE) simulations were developed using Abaqus to model the torsional behavior of the retrofitted girders, the results of which were validated with the experimental data. With the numerical model, the effect of concrete compressive strength, transverse reinforcement spacing, and CFRP strip spacing were examined. The effectiveness of the CFRP strips in enhancing the torsional strength of the girder was found to increase with increasing the spacing between the transverse reinforcement.
Intra-Sac Injection of Thrombin During Endovascular Aneurysm Repair to Remedy Type II Endoleak and Promote Sac Shrinkage
Authors: Zhao Shi Lu , Xiong Jian Ping , Luan Jing Yuan , Jia Zi Chang , Han Jin Tao , Feng Qi Chen , Zhuang Jin Man , Li Tian Run , Wang Chang Ming , Li Xuan
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of intra-sac thrombin injection to remedy type II endoleaks (T2ELs) during endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

Materials and Methods

224 cases abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) were treated with EVAR. For the 52 cases of intra-operative type II endoleaks and 8 cases of ruptured AAAs, after the grafts were deployed, thrombin was injected into the aneurysm sac through a preset catheter. The occurrence of endoleaks post-EVAR were followed up with by Computed Tomography (CT) angiogram. The diameter and the volume of the aneurysm sac were also measured. Endpoints included incidence of T2ELs, AAA sac shrinkage and re-intervention rate and all-cause mortality.

Results

The overall technical success rate was 100%. Fifty-two patients were followed up with for 9-56 (median 24) months. No serious complications were observed during follow-up. The incidence of endoleak was 5.8% (3/52) during follow-up. The maximum diameter of the aneurysm decreased from 61.1 ± 14.2 mm to 53.7 ± 10.6 mm, 47.9 ± 8.3 mm and 43.7 ± 7.2 mm (87.9%, 78.4% and 71.5% of pre-EVAR) at the 6-month, 1-year and 2-year follow-up, respectively ( P < .05). The volume of the aneurysm sac shrank from 236.2 ± 136.2 cm3 to 202.6 ± 114.1 cm3, 155.6 ± 68.4 cm3 and 129.7 ± 52.4 cm3 (85.8%, 65.9%, and 54.9% of pre-EVAR) at the 6-month, 1-year and 2-year follow-up, respectively ( P < .05). The rate of various endoleaks was 5.8% (3/52) and the re-intervention rate was 1.9% (1/52) in this research.

Conclusions

Clinical outcomes show that intra-sac injection of thrombin during EVAR is safe and may be effective in remedying small amount and low-velocity endoleaks and promoting shrinkage of the aneurysm sac.
Diagnostic Value of Lower Extremity Venous Duplication via Digital Subtraction Angiography Guided Venography
Authors: Tang Ming , Fan Weijian , Cui Jianwei , Liu Qingling , Chang Xindong , He Mingfei , Fang Qingqing , Wang Siyuan , Chen Mianpeng , Yin Shiwu
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Lower limb venous anomalies, including duplicated veins, are common and have significant impacts on the outcomes and efficacy of venous surgery. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) guided venography, serving as the tertiary diagnostic option for venous disorders, offers valuable informations to clinical practitioners.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 195 patients with suspected venous disease, evaluating 259 limbs with venography imaging. Two experienced interventional vascularists evaluated the images to determine the incidence and characteristics of variances in the femoral, popliteal, great saphenous, and small saphenous veins. Moreover, blood samples were collected to assess the safety of the venography procedure by monitoring changes in renal function.

Result

Duplication variations were found in the lower limb veins, with the highest prevalence in the femoral vein (11.28%, 22/195), followed by the great saphenous vein (4.1%, 8/195), and the popliteal vein (1.54%, 3/195). No severe contrast agent allergies or postoperative complications were reported. No statistically significant differences were found in creatinine and urea levels pre- and post-operation for patients without duplication variations, those with duplication of the great saphenous, femoral, or popliteal vein ( P < .05).

Conclusion

DSA-guided venography is effective in identifying venous variations in lower limb disease. DFV is the most common recurrent vein, while DPV is the least. Adequate preparation ensures safety, high spatial resolution, dynamic imaging, and low tissue interference.
Postoperative Brace Use After Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mavrommatis Sophia , Feroe Aliya G. , Fader Ryan R. , Hassan Mahad M.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Although hip bracing after hip arthroscopy is relatively common, it is not an evidence-based practice; no comparative studies or clinical trials exploring its effectiveness exist.

Purpose:

We sought to summarize the rates of and indications for hip bracing after hip arthroscopy, surgeons’ preferences on braces, and the types of braces used.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, and Medline databases to identify studies that examined hip bracing following hip arthroscopy. Two independent reviewers identified relevant studies with final inclusion determined by the senior author. Full-length, original research articles regarding relevant subject matter that were published prior to January 2022 were included in the analysis.

Results:

Of the 52 articles that underwent full-text review, 14 were included (10 clinical case series, comparative studies, or case-control studies and 4 cross-sectional studies of surgeon-specific postoperative rehabilitation protocols). These studies revealed that the practice of hip bracing after hip arthroscopy is relatively common among orthopedic surgeons, with up to 40% of surgeons using them. Surgical indications for postoperative brace use varied widely. Recommendations on the length of brace use varied, but range of motion restrictions were consistent.

Conclusions:

Although up to 40% of surgeons use post-hip arthroscopy bracing, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether it improves patient outcomes. Research producing higher levels of evidence regarding the efficacy of bracing following hip arthroscopy is necessary to understand the physical, mental, and economic costs and benefits to patients.
Using the RE-AIM Framework to Evaluate Implementation of Male Involvement Strategies to Optimize the PMTCT Program in Malawi: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Kumwenda Mphatso , Singogo Emmanuel , Nyondo-Mipando Alinane Linda
Published: August 2023

Involvement of male partners has been shown to be key for the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT). Despite the recorded success, uptake and implementation of strategies to involve men in PMTCT continues to be low in Malawi. In this study, we used the Reach Effectiveness Adoption Implementation and Maintenance (RE-AIM) implementation science framework to explore the implementation of male involvement (MI) strategies in Lilongwe, Malawi. We used a cross-sectional mixed-methods complementary-concurrent design from September to October 2020 in two health facilities. Qualitatively, we used a phenomenological approach and conducted seven focus group discussions (FGDs), three with women and four with men. We further conducted four key informant interviews (KIIs) among health care workers. Quantitatively, we conducted a cross-sectional study comprising 138 men presenting at an antenatal clinic (ANC). We used univariate analysis in Stata for the quantitative data, whereas a manual thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. Implementation and adoption of the strategies was high among health providers and there were indications of maintenance of the strategies. Provider’s attitude, coordinated service provision, integrated training and service provision, information provision, and baby’s HIV outcomes were driving factors in implementing the MI strategies. These factors have contributed to the sustained implementation of the strategies over time. In contrast, financial and time constraints, inadequate human resources, and male-friendly spaces impede the implementation of MI strategies. Improving MI will require a systems approach considering health system and individual-level factors for both providers and consumers.
Comparison of pharmaceutical characteristics and membrane permeability of truvada combination tablets and its generic drugs
Authors: Takizawa Yusuke , Kunii Naruya , Oguri Junya , Aizawa Yuki , Furuya Takahito , Kurita Takuro , Masuda Junichi , Nakajima Takanori
Published: August 2023

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) prevents HIV infection through the daily administration of anti-HIV drugs, such as Truvada combination tablets (a combination of emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)). However, since PrEP is not approved in Japan, generic drugs sold overseas are imported and used by individuals. Then, the present study investigated the pharmaceutical equivalence of two generic drugs of Truvada (Generic A and Generic B). Tablet properties were examined by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. The dissolution behaviors and membrane permeabilities of FTC and TDF were assessed by the dissolution test using the paddle method and a membrane permeation experiment using Caco-2 cell monolayers, respectively. The dissolution behaviors of FTC and TDF differed between Truvada and its generic drugs. Furthermore, the membrane permeation rates of FTC and TDF in Generic B were slower than those in Truvada, and the AUC of FTC in Generic B was significantly smaller than that in Truvada. Differences were observed in the dissolution behaviors and membrane permeabilities of FTC and TDF in generic drugs (particularly Generic B) from those in Truvada. Since there are concerns regarding the clinical implications of these results, further studies, including in vivo experiments, are needed to ensure the safety of generic drugs.
Heritage, memory and identity of Harbin: A confluence of Russian and Japanese colonial effects
Authors: Zhang Wenzhuo
Published: August 2023

Harbin is the capital of Heilongjiang Province and China’s northernmost metropolis. The modern city of Harbin was founded by the Russians in 1898 and colonised by Russia and Japan during the first half of its 120-year history. After the Second World War, the post-colonial Harbin had to deal with its Russian and Japanese colonial pasts and their architectural remains. While the city initially tried to forget its colonial pasts by demolishing the colonial-era buildings, in recent decades, Harbin is re-remembering those pasts through the presentation and (re)interpretation of its colonial built heritage. It is noteworthy that the local government has approached Harbin’s Russian and Japanese colonial heritages in very different ways, and public opinion has polarised on the issue of colonisation regarding the city’s Russian and Japanese colonial pasts. Using archival analysis, observation and semi-structured interviews, this paper investigates the evolution of Harbin’s urban memory of the colonial pasts from both official and popular perspectives. It is argued that the different approaches to Russian and Japanese colonial heritages have historical reasons in cultural, economic and political terms and serve to achieve a common goal in the present, that is to construct a distinct and consistent identity for the city’s future. Further, post-colonial identity constructed in this way is questioned as it still does not overcome the self–other dichotomy that features in colonisation.
Surgical site infection following surgery for hand trauma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wormald Justin C. , Baldwin Alexander J. , Nadama Hayat , Shaw Abigail , Wade Ryckie G. , Prieto-Alhambra Dani , Cook Jonathan A. , Rodrigues Jeremy N. , Costa Matthew L.
Published: August 2023

Surgical site infection is the most common healthcare-associated infection. Surgical site infection after surgery for hand trauma is associated with increased antibiotic prescribing, re-operation, hospital readmission and delayed rehabilitation, and in severe cases may lead to amputation. As the risk of surgical site infection after surgery for hand trauma remains unclear, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of all primary studies of hand trauma surgery, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies and case series. A total of 8836 abstracts were screened, and 201 full studies with 315,618 patients included. The meta-analysis showed a 10% risk of surgical site infection in randomized control trials, with an overall risk of 5% when all studies were included. These summary statistics can be used clinically for informed consent and shared decision making, and for power calculations for future clinical trials of antimicrobial interventions in hand trauma.
At what level is the gap transfer illusion illusory?
Authors: Nakajima Yoshitaka , Remijn Gerard Bastiaan
Published: August 2023

The gap transfer illusion is an auditory phenomenon in which a temporal gap in a longer glide transfers perceptually to a crossing shorter glide, making the longer glide illusorily continuous. This continuity is often considered a variation of classic illusory auditory continuity attributed to auditory peripheral activity, but a new view is given here supported by a series of sound demonstrations indicating that this illusory continuity is purely caused by a higher mechanism of perceptual organization.
Validation of Bengali version of Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale-Revised (ESAS-r Bengali): A multidimensional symptom assessment tool for patients with advanced incurable diseases receiving palliative care
Authors: Afsar Nahid , Bhuiyan A.K.M. Motiur Rahman , Alam Afroja , Chowdhury Mostofa Kamal
Published: August 2023

Objective:

Routine symptom assessment represents the cornerstone of symptom management of patients with advanced incurable diseases in palliative care. At present, there is no validated tool to assess symptoms among the Bengali-speaking population with incurable diseases. The aim of the study is to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (Revised) into Bengali language.

Methods:

The study was conducted in two phases. Forward and backward translations of the English version of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (Revised) into Bengali were conducted by four independent translators. After obtaining reviews from an expert committee, pre-testing and cognitive debriefing the Bengali version of the tool was finalized. The final validation was conducted among 110 patients admitted to the Palliative Medicine Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Validity (content, face, and construct validity) and reliability (internal consistency) were assessed in the final validation phase.

Result:

All participants responded to all items. Seventy percent of the participants completely understood all questions but 30% had difficulty with three questions. The expert committee expressed their satisfaction regarding the face and content validity of the questionnaire. The Bengali version also had high reliability (α = 0.862). Principal component analysis with the distribution of varimax rotation of Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (Revised) Bengali ranged from 0.41 to 0.83.

Conclusion:

After the translation and cross-cultural adaptation, the Bengali version of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (Revised) achieved good levels of validity and reliability. It can be used as a symptom assessment tool for Bengali speaking population receiving palliative care.
A feasibility study to evaluate a purposeful walk intervention with a distance goal using a commercially available activity monitor in elderly people post total hip replacement surgery
Authors: Bahadori Shayan , Williams Jonathan Mark , Collard Sarah , Swain Ian
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Total hip replacement (THR) is performed in an increasing number of individuals around the world and while improvements in pain reduction and long-term enhancement of muscle strength are well documented, the improvement in daily activity does not follow the same trend. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of a 5-week intervention where a personalised outdoor walking distance is monitored using a commercial activity monitor (Fitbit Charge 4).

Method

Data was collected on gait and activities of daily living using patient reported outcome measures. Following the completion of the intervention period, participants took part in a semi-structured interview to voice their opinion on the use of the activity monitor, their experiences, and any challenges in order to assess the feasibility of the intervention. All quantitative data were presented descriptively, using appropriate summary statistics. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Five participants who had undergone total hip replacement surgery within the postoperative period of 3 to 6 months were recruited from the local community.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the intervention was feasible and that it encouraged all participants to increase their daily activity. Therefore, it can be concluded that a follow-up effectiveness trial is warranted.
Serve the Traffic: The Logic of Traffic and Its Politics on WeChat Platform
Authors: Chen Changwen , Wang Ziyi , Gn Joel
Published: August 2023

In China, “the logic of traffic” ( liuliang luoji, 流量逻辑) is a buzzword widely adopted within digital platforms, the government, and the general public. A cursory description of how digital platforms operate, the logic of traffic is often equated with unscrupulous traffic-chasing behavior, and fails to capture the complex relationships and interactions within the political economy of Chinese digital media platforms. This article uses official accounts on the WeChat platform as a case study to examine the historical evolution of the logic of traffic and considers the collaborations between various stakeholders and their implications. Through fieldwork observations and in-depth interviews, we illustrate the dynamic relationships between media, platform, government, and content producers. We argue that the logic of traffic, as both a managerial consideration and cultural imperative, is driven by both market and governmental forces, even as it is expressed in the routine discursive practices of content creation. The research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the indigenous logic of platform cultural production and provides insights into the dynamic relationship between the state and digital media industry.
A Systematic Literature Review of Virtual Technology in Hospitality and Tourism (2013–2022)
Authors: Chen Junwei , Wu Xiaohong , Lai Ivan Ka Wai
Published: August 2023

Since 2019, the number of journal articles on virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) has increased dramatically, but existing virtual technology literature reviews have mainly been based on earlier articles. A comprehensive literature review is thus necessary to gain an accurate understanding of the progress and trends in research in this field. Based on the Scopus database, this study systematically reviewed the research on virtual technology in the field of hospitality and tourism in the past 10 years; a total of 274 journal papers were reviewed. The results of bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer identified the research progress and influential literature. Four research clusters were identified based on the bibliometric map: VR research, AR research, VR experiences and virtual technology applications. Thirteen research themes under different clusters were discussed based on content analysis, and research agendas in seven areas were proposed to guide future research. This study contributes to the research on virtual technology in hospitality and tourism by identifying existing research themes and proposing further research directions. It also provides implications for hospitality and tourism marketers to develop marketing strategies using virtual technology.
Selective outcome reporting in randomised controlled trials including participants with stroke or transient ischaemic attack: A systematic review
Authors: Syed Mohshin , Martin Helena , Sena Emily S , Williamson Paula R , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

The prevalence of outcome reporting bias (ORB, i.e. selective reporting according to the results observed) across primary outcomes in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including participants with stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is unknown.

Materials and Methods:

We searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews on 3 February 2021 for reviews published 2008–2020 with at least one RCT of a therapeutic intervention, for participants with stroke or TIA, and a safety or efficacy outcome. We took a random sample of these RCTs and included those with a trial registry record or protocol published before reporting results. Two reviewers assessed discrepancies in outcome reporting across the trial registry record, protocol, statistical analysis plan, and publication for each RCT, using the classification system designed by the Outcome Reporting Bias in Trials group.

Results:

Of 600 RCTs, we identified a trial registry record in 120 (20%), a protocol in 28 (5%), and a statistical analysis plan in 5 (1%) with 123 (21%) distinct RCTs being eligible for assessment: 110 (89%, 95% CI 83–94) were at no risk, 7 (6%, 95% CI 3–11) RCTs were at low risk, and 6 (5%, 95% CI 2–10) were at high risk of ORB.

Discussion:

The prevalence of ORB in primary outcomes was low in stroke/TIA RCTs that were included in Cochrane reviews and had an identifiable trial registry record or protocol. Concerningly, we were unable to identify a trial registry record or protocol in most of our sample.

Conclusion:

Work is needed to further reduce ORB in stroke/TIA RCTs and explore the generalisability of these findings to RCTs outside of Cochrane reviews or without a registry record or protocol, as well as to secondary outcomes.
Occupational and Educational Changes in Indian Caste System: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alam Mehroj
Published: August 2023

Since time immemorial, the caste system has been the fundamental institution of traditional Indian society. Among Indian castes and social classes, the design of this one-of-a-kind institution is highly visible. The caste system is not only followed by Indians, but it is also absorbed into their daily lives. Occupations and education are no exception, and both have a strong connection to this unique institution. However, modernization, globalization, and industrialization have had a significant impact on Indian castes/communities, their occupations, and education. It began during the colonial period, when India experienced a number of innovative changes in terms of occupation and education. As a result of these changes, a revolutionary system of adopting new, ‘caste-free’ occupations and modern education emerged. This research paper relies heavily on secondary data. The main aim of this study is to comprehend the ramifications of occupational and educational changes among Indian castes and communities. This attempt, I hope, would highlight the shifting linkages between caste, occupation, and education, resulting in a better understanding of the Indian caste system.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Revised Brief Diabetes Knowledge Test (DKT2) in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Their Caregivers
Authors: Baroni Irene , Caruso Rosario , Arrigoni Cristina , Fabrizi Diletta , Pinto Floriana , Luciani Michela , Ausili Davide
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to develop an Italian version of the Revised Brief Diabetes Knowledge Test (DKT2), providing a cultural and linguistic validation supported by psychometrics and hypotheses testing.

Methods:

This multimethods study was divided into 4 phases: (a) cultural-linguistic validation, with a translation and back-translation process; (b) confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) considering the original scale’s structure (knowledge and insulin-specific knowledge); (c) criterion validity via hypotheses testing; and (d) cross-group measurement invariance. The internal consistency reliability was assessed by the Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 (KR-20) of the overall scale.

Results:

A total of 251 patients and 251 caregivers were enrolled. The CFA showed good goodness of fit for both patients and caregivers. The tested hypotheses supported criterion validity in both groups. Reliability was adequate: All KR-20 values in both groups and domains were higher than 0.60. The mean percentage of knowledge score on DKT2 was lower for patients than caregivers.

Conclusion:

The DKT2 is a valid and reliable scale to assess overall knowledge of diabetes, considering its role in promoting appropriate self-care behaviors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The Italian version of DKT2 demonstrated reliability and validity, and it can be used by researchers and diabetes care and education specialists to assess a patient’s or population’s overall knowledge of diabetes.
RepBox: a toolbox for the identification of repetitive elements
Authors: Burkes-Patton Shelvasha , Cooper Elizabeth A. , Schlueter Jessica
Published: August 2023

Background

Transposable elements (TEs) are short, mobile DNA elements that are known to play important roles in the genomes of many eukaryotic species. The identification and categorization of these elements is a critical task for many genomic studies, and the continued increase in the number of de novo assembled genomes demands new tools to improve the efficiency of this process. For this reason, we developed RepBox, a suite of Python scripts that combine several pre-existing family-specific TE detection methods into a single user-friendly pipeline.

Results

Based on comparisons of RepBox with the standard TE detection software RepeatModeler, we find that RepBox consistently classifies more elements and is also able to identify a more diverse array of TE families than the existing methods in plant genomes.

Conclusions

The performance of RepBox on two different plant genomes indicates that our toolbox represents a significant improvement over existing TE detection methods, and should facilitate future TE annotation efforts in additional species.