bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Universalia, the Society of Czechoslovak Hermeticists
Authors: Horák Pavel
Published: March 2023

The article discusses the reception of occultism in Central Europe through a case study of the most sophisticated Czech occult society, Universalia: The Society of Czechoslovak Hermeticist. Established in the Czechoslovak Republic of the 1920s, dissolved by the Nazi regime in 1941, and subsequently revived in the 1990s, Universalia significantly shaped the Czech occult milieu through publishing and lecturing activities. The article focuses primarily on how the French occult milieu shaped local Czech occultism, exploring two extremes within Universalia’s leadership: universalism and nationalism. The article tracks these tendencies through discursive historical analysis, paying attention to the topoi related to occultism, universalism, the Czech nation, Slavic ethnicity, and national myths, along with notions of initiation, corruption of society, and the exclusivity of occult ideas and practices. It shows which discursive strategies underlined either universalism or nationalism and charts a balanced image of Universalia and the Czechoslovak occult milieu between 1890 and 1942.
Fighting Against Disinformation from Foreign Forces? Or Suppressing Criticism from Domestic Opposition Parties?
Authors: Yang Chih-Chieh
Published: March 2023

Every country is concerned about disinformation on the internet, especially its impact on domestic elections and domestic politics. Among them, there are concerns that mainland China will meddle in Taiwan’s elections with disinformation. In December 2018, Taiwan’s government launched a policy to combat disinformation, including proposing legal amendments. However, the laws that the Taiwanese government use to investigate and prosecute individuals are not newly revised laws, but an existing Social Order Maintenance Act. In addition, at the end of 2019, the ‘Anti-Infiltration Act’ was suddenly proposed and passed. Both laws (Taiwan’s main tools in the fight against fake news) raise questions as to potential violations of the freedom of speech, the discussion of which remains heavily influenced by the laws and jurisprudence of the United States (US). However, Taiwan’s judiciary and legislature have misunderstood the law in the US or have made amendments, resulting in divergent developmental trajectories.
Precluding the Wrongfulness of Derogations of International Human Rights Instruments
Authors: Jain Ashika , Gupta Rohit
Published: March 2023

Primary and secondary norms represent complementary systems of governance, one specifying the substantive obligations of states and the other imposing consequences upon deviation. Treaties which contain both primary and secondary norms generally operate as self-contained regimes as they oust the application of secondary norms under customary international law, such as those that might be invoked to justify deviations. Conflict, however, arises when the treaty norms seem to overlap with their customary counterpart, while remaining technically disjunct in their form. Derogation and limitation clauses in several international human rights instruments provide conditions in which a violation would be justified. On the other hand, customary international law also prescribes circumstances in which violations cannot be considered wrongful. This article addresses whether the existence of the former in treaties precludes the invocation of the latter. It also highlights the difficulty which arises in the interpretation of those instruments in which such derogation and limitation clauses are absent.
Philosophizing Age in De Senectute and the Second Philippic
Authors: Zarecki Jonathan P.
Published: March 2023

This paper examines the intricate relationship between De Senectute and the Second Philippic, arguing that De Senectute is an important lens through which to read the Second Philippic. When Cicero decided on irrevocable opposition to Antony, the moral and political theorizing about the role of senes (literally, ‘old men/elders’) in the state found in De Senectute provided a convenient and topical framework for synthesizing the invective of the Second Philippic. A close reading of De Senectute with the Second Philippic demonstrates that the philosophical thinking of De Senectute informed Cicero’s political persona in the Second Philippic and establishes the Second Philippic as the intellectual successor to De Senectute.
Encounters in Friendship with Nepos, Cicero, Atticus, and Rex Stem
Authors: Nelsestuen Grant A.
Published: March 2023

This article offers a critical appraisal of approaches to ‘friendship’ (amicitia) in Cornelius Nepos’s Atticus and Cicero’s De Amicitia, as found in the scholarship of Rex Stem and Grant Nelsestuen. In light of the former’s untimely passing in 2020, it uses an exchange of personal correspondence in 2019 between these two scholars – as well as John Alexander Lobur’s 2021 book on Nepos – as a basis for sketching new approaches to the role that friendship plays in Nepos’s biographies. Friendship thus turns out to be both an important aspect of Nepos’ political thought and a crucial means for advancing scholarly understanding of Nepos’ project in Atticus and his other biographies.
Unpublished Private Shabtis From the Greco-Roman Museum
Authors: el-Menshawy Sherine
Published: March 2023

Five unpublished shabtis from the Greco-Roman museum are the subject of this paper. The iconographical features of the shabtis are examined, including their wigs, arm and hand positions, implements, bags, and accoutrements. The owners are identified, from the inscribed texts which present the names of the deceased. The date and provenance of these shabtis are noted, along with the period at which they found their way to the Greco-Roman Museum.

The current paper is divided into two sections. The first gives a full descriptive account of these five shabtis, from the unpublished collections of the Greco-Roman Museum at Alexandria, published with the permission of the Museum. The second part discusses the problems of dating, and provenance and examines how the group was acquired by the Museum.
Some Inscribed Plaques from Abusir
Authors: Baligh Randa
Published: March 2023

The state in Ancient Egypt depended on the central domination of the king in the political, administrative, military and economic affairs. Therefore, the importance of the Royal Guards appeared as they were responsible for the safety and protection of the king, who was the axis of domination in the Egyptian civilization. The great importance of the Royal Guards appeared clearly in the Egyptian texts; for example, we found it in the famous instructions of King Kheti to his son "Meri-ka-re" from the Tenth Dynasty of the First Intermediate Period. Also, it was found in the various texts of the New Kingdom, as in the famous epic text of King Ramesses II on the battle of Kadesh from the Nineteenth Dynasty, where the guards of the king succeed in saving the King's life in the harsh moments of fighting. Hence, I aimed in my research to browse the various names and titles of the Royal Guards, mentioned in the Egyptian texts and titles, from the beginning of the Old Kingdom to the end of the New Kingdom.

I divided my research paper into four parts, the first one discussed the principal name of the Royal Guards in the Egyptian texts Smsw, meaning retainers, followers or servants, besides referring to the principal name of the royal guards in the Egyptian texts, ranging from the beginning of the First Intermediate Period and the Middle Kingdom to the various periods of the New Kingdom. In the other three parts of my research paper, I discussed the various names and tides of the Royal Guards in the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom and New Kingdom in the different texts and titles of these respective historical periods.
المدلولات التاريخية لنصوص المواقع الآثارية عن الحضارة الدلمونية إلى نهاية العصر الحديدي
Authors: شاهين علاء الدين عبد المحسن
Published: March 2023

It is well known that the Western coast of the Arabian Gulf in ancient times -3000 BCE and afterwards- has witnessed the establishment of many urban centers, which had some commercial relationships with its counterparts in Mesopotamia in the north, and with Indus civilization - present Indian Peninsula and Pakistan- in the south, in addition to its commercial relationship with the inner parts of the Arabian Peninsula.

This research paper is concerned more with the inscriptions of the urban centers -known as the Dilmun civilization- located on the Western Coast of the Arabian Gul£ Such inscriptions have not been studied before from a national point of view.

This research depends mainly on the Sumerian sources, which made several references to the economic, military and religious relationships with the Dilmun Civilization. This study aims to gather information about the Dilmun civilization in order to understand it more fully, and to shade light on the historical values of those archival sourcesw to the end of the Iron Age in the relevant archaeological sites on the western coast of the Arabian Gulf.
After the Railways Are Built: Makrani Labor and Illegible Claims to Land and Belonging in Sindh
Authors: Khan Mishal
Published: March 2023

This article focuses on an incident involving a series of evictions experienced by a group of Makrani laborers who made their living by earning daily wages at the Hyderabad railway station in early twentieth century Sindh. In this piece I critically analyze two imperial projects: first, the construction of the Indian railways and second, the promotion of “free” wage labor by the colonial regime in the aftermath of the abolition of slavery. By critically interrogating the promises of both “free labor” and “technological progress” this article argues that survival in the Sindhi countryside depended on a group’s ability to assert legible claims to both belonging and to land. Through an in-depth examination of the conflicting land claims, bureaucratic exchanges, and discourses around wage work that these evictions provoked, this paper reflects on the enduring entanglements of race, labor, technology, and empire in this region of British India.
مذاق الأمل: البشارة في تأويل رؤيا الطعام في ثلاثة من كتب التعبير المبكرة
Authors: Jammal (لينا الجمّال) Lina
Published: March 2023

المستخلص

‫شاع من الأمثال العربيّة القديمة قولهم: ”أحلى من المُنى،“ وتتساءل هذه المقالة عمّا إذا كان الأمل مرتبطًا حقًّا بالمذاق الحلو في المطبخ العربيّ القديم، فتلجأ إلى كتب تعبير المنامات للتحقّق من ذلك بصفتها موسوعةً للرموز في الحضارة العربيّة-الإسلاميّة. فتدرس المقالة الباب الخاصّ بتأويل الأطعمة والأشربة في ثلاثة من كتب التعبير التي عرفتها القرون الهجريّة الأولى، وهي: تعبير الرؤيا لابن قتيبة (ت ‫276‬/889)، والقادري في التعبير للدينوريّ (ت بعد ‫400‬/1010)، والبشارة والنذارة للخركوشيّ (ت ‫407‬/1016). وترصد البشارةَ في تأويل بعض أصناف الطعام لتفهم ارتباط الأمل بالمذاقات المختلفة، ثمّ تنظر في السياقات الأدبيّة والدينيّة والاجتماعيّة التي عرفها القرنان الثالث والرابع/التاسع والعاشر لتحلّل البُنى الثقافيّة التي سوّغت هذه التأويلات ورسّختها.‬
الأمل في التراث الصوفيّ
Authors: Abdo (خالد محمّد عبده) Khalid Mohammed
Published: March 2023

المستخلص

‫تقارب المقالة مفهوم الأمل في التراث الصوفيّ محاولةً تتبُّع المفهوم عند أوائل الصوفيّة، واتّصاله بالمقامات والأحوال، وإثرائه المعجم الصوفيّ. وتستند المقالة بصفة خاصّة إلى أعمال الحارث المحاسبيّ (ت ‫243‬/857) نظرًا لتقدُّمه وكثرة تلاميذه وأقرانه ومعاصريه من الصوفيّة الأوائل الذين اعتمدوا عليه، وأعمال الهرويّ الأنصاريّ (ت ‫481‬/1089) صاحب المؤلَّف البارز منازل السائرين. وتركّز المقالة على حضور مفهوم الأمل، وكيفيّة توظيفه في تربية المريد، وتطوُّر النظرة إليه في علم الأحوال والمقامات. وفي غضون ذلك، تشير المقالة إلى اهتمام الزهّاد الأوائل بالتصنيف المستقلّ في موضوع الأمل، ومثاله كتاب ابن أبي الدنيا (ت ‫281‬/894) قِصَر الأمل.‬
فاعليّة الأمل في أدب الرسائل: الرسالة التشفّعيّة لأبي إسحاق الصابي نموذجًا
Authors: El Bakkali (محمّد سعيد البقالي) Mohammed Said
Published: March 2023

المستخلص

‫تُعَدّ الرسالة التشفّعيّة نمطًا نثريًّا مؤهّلًا لتوليد الأمل واختبار فاعليّته، وإن لم يكن ظاهرًا فيها، وذلك لدوره البارز في استثارة الحسّ العاطفيّ لكلّ أطراف العمليّة التواصليّة وفي مقدّمتهم المشفوع إليه. يحاول هذا المقال تقصّي مختلف العوامل المسهمة في توليد الأمل في الرسالة التشفّعيّة، بما في ذلك الحجج التي تحمل قيمةً عاطفيّة تناسب المقام، وتركّز على استمالة المتلقّي بمختلف الطرق. ويلفت الانتباه إلى ما أملَتْه ظروف الحياة الخاصّة بالعاملين في فلك السلطة، وهو ما جعل وظائف الرسالة التشفّعيّة نفعيّة وعمليّة بما هي مكاتبات تُرسَل إلى كبار الشخصيّات كالخلفاء والرؤساء والأمراء والوزراء من أجل استعطافهم واستدرار شفقتهم للمشفوع له. وتبدو الرسالة التشفّعيّة بمثابة خيط الأمل الرفيع الذي يتشبّث به كلّ طرف، وتُتيح دراسة نموذجٍ لأبي إسحاق الصابي الوقوف على ذلك، لعنايته بتفاصيل الرسالة عناية خاصّة على مستوى اختيار الألفاظ وصوغ المعاني، وخاصّة صِيَغ الدعاء. فبيّنت أنّ إمكانات التوقّع في هذه الرسائل تكون مرتبطة أشدّ الارتباط بالأمل، أملِ قبول الشفاعة والإذعان للطلب الذي تكفّلت به الرسالة.‬
Therapeutic Activity of Aspirin-Loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Microspheres Against Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Hu Xiao-Xing , Li Wei-Hong
Published: March 2023

Coronary heart disease is the most dangerous heart disease worldwide, and its morbidity and mortality rates are rising. Aspirin is the most clinically used anti-platelet-aggregation agent, preventing thrombosis and reducing the incidence of cardiovascular events. Accordingly, the development
of drug-delivery systems containing aspirin is an urgent problem to be solved. In this study, PLGA microspheres with excellent biocompatibility were prepared based on the emulsification–volatilisation method by using aspirin as a drug model. PLGA/aspirin microspheres had small size,
high sphericity, and high drug-loading rates. Its therapeutic activity and nursing application value against coronary heart disease were evaluated, and the related mechanism was explored.
Treatment Activity of Silver Nanowires on Senile Cataract by Inhibiting the Apoptosis of Lens Epithelial Cells Induced by High Glucose
Authors: Gao Lu , Diao Pengfei
Published: March 2023

In this publication, three as-synthesized silver nanowires (Ag NWs) with high purity and yield were prepared via polyol synthesis method. The Ag NWs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and powder X-ray diffraction. The effects of crystallization time and control agents
were also explored, providing an effective method to design and synthesize Ag NWs. In addition, the biological activity of the Ag NWs for senile cataract therapy was evaluated, and the related mechanism was explored. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was conducted to measure the relative
expression levels of the apoptosis-related genes p53 and BCL-2 in the mRNA level. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was carried out, and TGF-β2 content was determined.
Mechanical Behavior of Waste Fiber-Reinforced Recycled Aggregate Concrete Based on the Response Surface Method
Authors: Zhou Jing-Hai , Liang Yi-Bo , Kang Tian-Bei , Liu Yu , Liu Dan , Qi Yue
Published: March 2023

Concrete made using recycled aggregates is a practical way to reduce construction waste. The purpose of this study is to improve the mechanical qualities of recycled aggregate concrete by incorporating waste fibers. The replacement rate of recycled coarse aggregate and volume content
of waste fibers were planned as the study variables. The cubic compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, axial compressive strength, and elastic modulus were used to explore the mechanical characteristics of specimens. Additionally, the test results were optimized utilizing the response
surface method, focusing on the influence of study variables on performance. The axial compressive constructive equation of waste fiber-reinforced recycled aggregate concrete was created based on the stress–strain curves of the specimens, and it serves as a foundation for further in-depth
theoretical investigations.
Investigation into the effects of foaming variables on the cellular structure and expansion ratio of foamed TPU using response surface methodology
Authors: Wang Jiankang , Fa Houjian , Lu Hongwei
Published: March 2023

Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU) foams were prepared using the high-pressure autoclave with supercritical fluid carbon dioxide (SC-CO2). The effects of foaming variables (i.e. saturation temperature, saturation pressure, and depressurization rate) on cellular structure and expansion ratio were investigated. The model between expansion ratio and foaming variables was constructed using the Box-Behnken design (BBD) of response surface methodology (RSM), and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to evaluate the validity and significance of the model. Finally, the interactive effects of foaming variables on the expansion ratio were investigated, and the expansion ratios of maximum and center point from numerical model were verified by experiment. The result showed higher saturation pressure and depressurization rate resulted in the more uniform cellular structure and higher cell density, however the higher saturation temperature resulted in the bigger cell and nonuniform structure. The ranges of average cell diameter and cell density were 15.26–45.4 μm and 0.32 × 108 to 6.24 × 108 cells/cm3, respectively. The model obtained using BBD of RSM was valid to predict the expansion ratio in the design window. The saturation temperature was the most important factor influencing the expansion ratio. With the increase of saturation temperature, the expansion ratio always increases in the design window. The maximum expansion ratio from numerical optimization was 4.91, which was located at saturation temperature 190°C, saturation pressure 12.51 MPa, and depressurization rate 5 MPa/s, and the corresponding experiment value was 4.56. The error between them was 7.13%.
The effect of digital literacy on technology acceptance: An evaluation on administrative staff in higher education
Authors: Kabakus Ahmet Kamil , Bahcekapili Ekrem , Ayaz Ahmet
Published: March 2023

Digital literacy is a critical skill that administrative staff must acquire to continue their business activities at higher education. However, digital literacy studies for administrative staff seem to be neglected in the current literature. This article examines the impact of higher education administrative staff’s digital literacy on their intention to use digital technologies while performing their tasks. For this purpose, a conceptual model consisting of effort expectancy and performance expectancy structures based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology and expanded with the digital literacy dimension has been created. Data were collected from 158 participants who were administrative staff of two higher education institutions in Türkiye to evaluate the theoretical model. The data were analysed using the structural equation modelling technique. The findings revealed the relationship between the digital literacy skills of higher education administrative staff and their intention to use digital technology. According to the results, digital literacy has a direct effect on effort expectancy but not on performance expectancy. Also, contrary to our expectations, digital literacy does not directly affect the intention to use. However, digital literacy affects the intention to use digital technology through effort expectancy and performance expectancy. In higher education, personnel with low digital literacy skills should be identified and in-service training should be provided. This is one of the first studies to address the impact of digital literacy on technology acceptance by administrative staff working in higher education.
Image retrieval effectiveness of Bing Images, Google Images and Yahoo Image Search in the scientific field of tourism and COVID-19
Authors: Hussain Aabid , Gul Sumeer , Nisa Nahida Tun , Shueb Sheikh , Gulzar Farzana , Bano Shohar
Published: March 2023

The year 2020 brought a big concern for the global community because of COVID-19, which affected every sector of society, and tourism is no exception. Researchers across the globe are publishing their studies related to different dimensions of tourism in the context of COVID-19, and images have formed an essential component of their research. In tourism, images related to COVID-19 can open new dimensions for scholars. The main aim of the research is to measure the retrieval effectiveness of three image search engines (ISEs), that is, Bing Images, Google Images and Yahoo Image Search, concerning images related to COVID-19 and tourism. The study attempts to identify the capability of the ISEs to retrieve the desired and actual images related to COVID-19 and tourism. The PubMed Central (PMC) Database was consulted to retrieve the desired images and develop a testbed. The advanced search feature of PMC Database was explored by typing the search terms ‘COVID-19’ and ‘Tourism’ using ‘AND’ operator to make the search more comprehensive. Both the terms were searched against the ‘Figure/Table’ caption to retrieve papers carrying images related to COVID-19 and tourism. Queries were executed across the select ISEs, that is, Bing Images, Google Images and Yahoo Image Search. Retrieved images were individually analysed against the original image from the articles to determine the Precision, Relative Recall, F-Measure and Fallout Ratio. The format of the images in JPG/JPEG, besides checking the original image rank in the retrieved lot, was also ascertained. Bing Images scores more in terms of Mean Precision, followed by Google Images and Yahoo Image Search. For the Relative Recall measure, Google Images scores high, followed by Bing Images and Yahoo Image Search, respectively. Regarding F-Measure and Fallout Ratio, Bing Images outperforms Google Images and Yahoo Image Search. In retrieving the sought format of JPG/JPEG, Google Images performs best, followed by Yahoo Image Search and Bing Images. Google Images produces the original image at the first rank on more than one occasion. In contrast, Bing Images retrieves the original image at the first rank in two instances. Yahoo Images performs poorly over this metric as it does not retrieve any original image at the first rank on any other instance. The study cannot be generalised as the scope is only limited to the images indexed by PMC. Furthermore, the retrieval effectiveness of only three ISEs is measured. The study is the first to measure the retrieval effectiveness of ISEs in retrieving images related to the COVID-19 pandemic and tourism. The study can be extended across other image-indexing databases pertinent to tourism studies, and the retrieval effectiveness of other ISEs can also be considered.
The 1995 potential renal acid load (PRAL) values may no longer adequately reflect the actual acid–base impact of certain foods: A hypothesis
Authors: Storz Maximilian Andreas , Ronco Alvaro Luis
Published: March 2023

Background: In 1995, Remer and Manz reported potential renal acid load (PRAL) values of various foods, quantifying their estimated impact on acid–base balance. Their estimation considered ionic dissociation, sulphur metabolism and intestinal absorption rates for several micronutrients and proteins. Notably, PRAL values are based on food content data from the early 1990s and may nowadays no longer adequately reflect accurate estimates. Some foods’ macronutrient and mineral content has declined over the past three decades due to changes in soil mineral health. Aim: We hypothesize that the 1995 PRAL values no longer adequately reflect reliable estimates of the current acid–base impact of some foods. Methods: Based on specific examples, we argue that these values overestimate the alkalizing effects of various fruits and vegetables. Conclusion: Discussing evidence in favour of (and against) our hypothesis, we conclude that the 1995 PRAL estimates should nowadays rather be used as a relative guidance and reviewed carefully.
Greek validation of the user version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS)
Authors: Chasiotis Georgios , Stoyanov Stoyan R , Karatzas Anastasios , Gravas Stavros
Published: March 2023

Objective

The original user version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS) is an English-language questionnaire that was designed to allow non-expert app users to assess the quality of health apps. We aimed to translate into the Greek language and validate the uMARS.

Methods

This was a qualitative prospective study. The World Health Organization translation process was followed and a readily available and free-of-charge app was used for the validation process. Internal consistency and reliability were tested twice within one month by 91 Greek medical students.

Results

The total uMARS score showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.86). The internal consistencies of its subscales were also very high (engagement alpha = 0.71; functionality alpha = 0.71; aesthetics alpha = 0.67; information alpha = 0.63), with the notable exception of the satisfaction alpha, which was 0.61. The uMARS total score demonstrated almost perfect agreement levels in most of the subscales according to the rWG index from baseline to 1 month.

Conclusions

The Greek uMARS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing the quality of mobile apps.
Relationship between Helicobacter pylori virulence genes and gastroduodenal disease
Authors: Wattanawongdon Wareeporn , Simawaranon Bartpho Theeraya , Tongtawee Taweesak
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study aimed to identify Helicobacter pylori virulence factors and examine their associations with clinical outcomes in Thai patients. Moreover, the association between these genotypes and gastric mucosa morphological patterns was investigated.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled patients who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy at Suranaree University of Technology Hospital. The presence of the cagA and vacA genes was investigated by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The H. pylori-specific genes ureA and 16S rRNA were detected in all 698 gastric biopsy specimens. In total, 567 (81.23%) patients with H. pylori infection were positive for the cagA gene, 443 (63.46%) were positive for the vacA gene, and 370 (53.0%) were positive for both. The cagA genotype was significantly more common in patients with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers (78.99% and 79.41%, respectively) than the vacA gene (51.48% and 55.88%, respectively) and combined genotypes (32.34% and 47.05%, respectively). Moreover, the cagA genotype was significantly more common in patients with type 4 or 5 gastric mucosa patterns (69.49% and 76.31%, respectively).

Conclusions

The cagA genotype is the main cause of serious inflammation of the gastric mucosa. The cagA gene is possibly an important factor explaining gastroduodenal disease outcomes in Thai patients with H. pylori infection.
Cognitive stimulation and activities of daily living for individuals with mild-to-moderate dementia: A scoping review
Authors: Ryan Simone , Brady Orla
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Dementia is a progressive syndrome that interferes with the individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL). Cognitive stimulation (CS) is a non-pharmacological approach aimed to mitigate the impact of dementia symptoms. While CS has been shown to provide benefits for cognition and quality of life, the evidence supporting its use in improving ADL outcomes is reduced. The aim of this review was to chart what is known from the literature about the use of CS in improving ADL outcomes.

Method:

A scoping review of the use of CS in improving ADL outcomes for individuals with mild-to-moderate dementia was conducted, following a scoping review methodological framework. Eight databases were searched, including all articles published up until June 2022.

Findings:

A three-step search strategy yielded 788 results. Following screening and review, 36 papers met the inclusion criteria for this review. Studies were charted and discussed in the areas of (1) cognitive stimulation therapy; (2) group CS programmes; (3) multi-component CS interventions; (4) individual CS programmes and (5) other types of CS.

Conclusion:

The review identified a range of CS programmes from across 13 countries worldwide. Multi-component CS interventions involving ADL-focused activities reported the most benefits for ADL outcomes.
The Effects of Arthroscopic Labral Repair on Patient-Reported Outcomes in the Setting of Periacetabular Osteotomy
Authors: Flemig Alison J. Dittmer , Selley Ryan S. , Essilfie Anthony , Robustelli Stacy , Schneider Brandon L. , Ranawat Anil , Nawabi Danyal , Kelly Bryan T. , Sink Ernest L.
Published: March 2023

Background:

It is currently unknown whether the addition of arthroscopic labral repair in the setting of periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) provides any clinical benefit.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of patients who underwent arthroscopic labral repair concomitantly with PAO versus patients who underwent PAO alone. We hypothesized that there would be no difference in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between the cohorts.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients undergoing PAO from a single-center prospective hip preservation registry were eligible for this study if they completed pre- and postoperative PROMs (minimum, 1 year). PROMs were collected at 1 year, 2 years, and latest follow-up at 6.05 years for PAO group and 4.2 years for scope/PAO group. The study group consisted of 53 patients who underwent arthroscopic labral repair at the time of their PAO, and the comparison group consisted of 170 patients who underwent PAO alone. A subset of the PAO group who had radiologic evidence of a detached labral tear (n = 33) was also compared with the rest of the PAO-alone group. PROMs were compared at every time point for both groups as well as the subset of patients who underwent PAO alone despite a labral tear.

Results:

The mean follow-up of all patients was 2 years (range, 1-6 years). Overall, 85.2% of the PAO group and 85.7% of the scope/PAO group met the minimal clinically important difference for either the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) or the International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33) at the most recent follow-up. There was no difference in improvement between groups (mHHS, P = .670; iHOT-33, P = .944). Patients who had a radiologically diagnosed detached labral tear and underwent PAO alone had no difference in outcomes when compared with the rest of the PAO cohort (mHHS, P = .981; iHOT-33, P = .909).

Conclusion:

There was no significant benefit measured by PROMs at follow-up for concomitant arthroscopic labral repair in the setting of PAO.
Self-reported behaviours and measures related to plastic waste reduction: European citizens’ perspective
Authors: Dagiliūtė Renata , Žaltauskaitė Jūratė , Sujetovienė Gintarė
Published: March 2023

Consumer attitudes and behaviour regarding consumption of plastic goods and proper waste management are of importance for reducing plastic and microplastic (MP) pollution. Therefore, based on Eurobarometer survey, this study aims to analyse European attitudes and behaviour related to plastic pollution reduction. Europeans acknowledge marine and river pollution as important environmental problems and are worried about plastics and MP environmental impacts. However, this does not translate into related plastic reduction behaviours. Regression analysis show that analysed behaviours are likely to be undertaken by women, younger, with higher incomes respondents and by those who express higher worry about plastic and MP environmental impacts. Industry and big companies are seen as having the main role in reducing plastic waste and littering, chargers for single use plastics being less important. Respondents also stress the role of education. Hence, focus on concrete steps to reduce plastic waste, highlighting the interaction of individual actions and environment should be given.
Trans People in the Workplace: Possibilities for Subverting Heteronormativity
Authors: Watson David , Benozzo Angelo , Fida Roberta
Published: March 2023

This article explores possible subversions of heteronormativity through transgender performativity in the workplace. Drawing on insights from Judith Butler we focus on how employees construct (un)intelligible subject positions that can create ‘moments’ of subversion, which go against the disciplinary, powerful and normative gender binary. We explore this possibility through an analysis of qualitative material generated through encounters with 11 Italian trans workers. Our analysis shows that subversion manifests in diverse ways according to how individual performativities combine with organisational context. Within this diversity we highlight three moments of subversion: subversion through intrigue; subversion through incongruence; and subversion through betrayal. We argue that where transgender identity contrasts strongly with gender norms, subversion is most intense. The subversion of strongly heteronormative working contexts is difficult as moments of subversion are unpredictable, varied and can come at personal cost, but are necessary in order to accommodate different gender identities.
Late ophthalmologic manifestations of monkeypox in a Latin American immunosuppressed patient
Authors: Ayala-Rivera Victor David , Padilla-Pantoja Fabio Daniel
Published: March 2023

Background

The re-emergence of Monkeypox (MPX) and its related ophthalmic disease represent a clinical challenge in the initial stages because of the presence of lesions like those caused by varicella zoster, syphilis, and other infections due to other poxviruses. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection and secondary immunodepression raise the risk of severe and prolonged disease.

Purpose

We present the case of a young immunosuppressed male patient with MPX, who presented with multiple skin lesions, also including risky ophthalmological manifestations due to extensive eyelid involvement.

Conclusions

We describe a novel form of late-onset conjunctivitis and eyelid lesions, without active extraocular disease, highlighting the heterogeneous behavior of the new clinical form of MPX, that exhibits a wide spectrum of lesions in different stages of evolution.
Theory as behaviour: Why empathy research needs horizontal, mutualistic habits of seeing
Authors: Avram Christa
Published: March 2023

I propose that theory, typically understood as a mere intellectual position, is also a habit of seeing (in the Deweyan sense). It is a form of behaviour organized through person–environment collaboration that reshapes both person and environment, facilitating and constraining subsequent potentials for action. I discuss two of psychology’s habits of seeing and their effect upon empathy research: (a) the vertical worldview, a habit of searching for reality at higher or lower levels, which neglects the empathizer’s context and (b) dualism, a habit of treating organisms as distinct from environments, which creates the problem of other minds. I present two alternative habits of seeing: (a) van Dijk and Withagen’s horizontal worldview, which looks outward to empathizers’ contexts and (b) organism–environment mutuality, which approaches organisms and environments as processes rather than entities. These latter habits, I conclude, better afford psychologists the possibility of addressing the practical problem of nonempathetic behaviour.
Aerodynamic structural design and control for a new miniature coaxial dual-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle
Authors: Yan Bing , Cheng Peng , Cai Chenxiao
Published: March 2023

This article mainly introduces a design and control method for a new type of portable coaxial dual-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle. The coaxial dual-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle prototype is constructed using three-dimensional computer-aided design software, and its aerodynamic characteristics are analyzed via computational fluid dynamics. A 6-degree-of-freedom nonlinear dynamic model of the coaxial dual-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle is derived by considering the characteristics of coaxial rotors and the downwash airflow. A proportional–integral–derivative tracking scheme including an inner-loop attitude controller and an outer-loop position controller is developed to track the target position and attitude, respectively. Finally, numerical simulations and actual experimental tests are employed to demonstrate the validity of the developed coaxial dual-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle system.
Overcoming barriers to te reo Māori usage in libraries: Providing access to Māori knowledge
Authors: Lilley Spencer
Published: March 2023

Over the last 40 years, New Zealand libraries and information management institutions have been undergoing cultural change in an attempt to improve the services and resources made available to Māori clients. Previous studies have demonstrated that Māori have not been regular users of these institutions, so a critical part of the transformation process has focused on the promotion of the benefits that library and information institutions can provide. This has led to institutions reviewing how they can incorporate distinctively Māori elements within their existing structures. A critical part of this innovation has been the introduction of te reo Māori into areas such as signage, intellectual access, website and online catalogue designs and client services. This article reports on research that has focused on how Māori language into services, and the challenges and opportunities that its usage has for Māori clients and the libraries and information management institutions in New Zealand.
The Effects of Different Data Visualisation Formats on News Recall and Comprehension
Authors: Mahmoud Raghda , Zoghaib Shaima’a Z.
Published: March 2023

This study uses the cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning as the theoretical foundation to explore the potential effects of different data visualisations on news recalling and comprehension. Using a quasi-experimental design, three data visualisations (bar chart, coloured map, and timeline) were examined on three different topics; Corona vaccines, conflict in Syria, and Ever Given ship aground. The results suggest that data visualisations can increase recall and comprehension, but this effect is inconsistent for all data visualisations. Also, recall and comprehension are not always correlated; an easy-to-remember visualisation is not necessarily easy to comprehend.
A novel design of an actively deformable honeycomb structure with application to a variable thickness leading-edge wing
Authors: Liang Ke , Cheng Qian
Published: March 2023

This work develops a novel design method for the actively deformable honeycomb structure to realize the variable thickness leading-edge wing. Firstly, the classical Gibson theory is extended to be applicable for the non-regular hexagonal honeycomb single-cell with the positive Poisson’s ratio and the concave hexagonal honeycomb single-cell with the negative Poisson’s ratio. The equivalent mechanical properties of the above two types of single-cells are deduced. Then, the concept of the deformation unit composed of positive and negative Poisson’s ratio honeycomb multi-cells is proposed. The shape memory alloy is assigned as an actuator to produce the in-plane incompatible deformation which excites the out-of-plane bending of the deformation unit. The relationship between the in-plane driving displacement and the bending angle of the deformation unit is investigated. The segmented two-layered honeycomb-core plate composed of positive and negative Poisson’s ratio honeycomb layers is constructed using deformation units. Finally, the initial configuration of the leading-edge is simulated by the segmented honeycomb-core plate. The driving displacements required to be imposed to each deformation unit are determined according to the target shape of the leading-edge. The proposed method is validated by changing the leading-edge from the blunt shape to the sharp shape, using finite element simulations.
The Role of Fear of Intimacy as Mediator between Self-Differentiation and Marital Relationship Satisfaction: A Dyadic Model
Authors: Finzi-Dottan Ricky
Published: March 2023

From the lens of Bowen's systemic family theory, this study employed the actor–partner interdependence model (APIM) to investigate the mediating effect fear of intimacy has on the association between self-differentiating and both partners’ relationship satisfaction. One hundred and forty-four non-clinical married couples ( N = 288) in enduring relationships were recruited. Results for actor effects revealed two mediating paths whereby, among both partners, self-differentiation was associated with their relationship satisfaction via fear of intimacy. Partner effect revealed that wives’ higher self-differentiation was associated with their lower fear of intimacy, which was linked, in turn, to husbands’ higher relationship satisfaction; unlike husbands’ fear of intimacy, which had no effect. Our results support Bowen's theoretical assumptions positing that self-differentiation indicates the ability for intimacy, which affects couple relationship satisfaction. Interestingly, the results highlight the role of the wives’ capability to establish intimate relationships on the husbands’ relationship satisfaction.
Critical Perspectives on Expanding Racial/Ethnic Diversity in the HIV Research Workforce: Comorbidities and Mentoring
Authors: Stoff David M. , Bowleg Lisa , del Río-González Ana María , Rodriguez-Diaz Carlos E. , Zea Maria Cecilia
Published: March 2023

HIV-related comorbidities in underrepresented minority populations are reframed to include the co-occurring problems of systemic and structural barriers, within the mentoring context as a buffer and as action-oriented. This framework is discussed to improve racial and ethnic minority diversity in the research workforce from the perspectives of HIV comorbidities and mentoring. An integrated and coordinated approach to HIV-related comorbidities and inequities may be helpful when combined with research on the social-structural contributions as drivers to diversify the research workforce. We emphasize how these key research issues (a) provide a platform for training and retraining a highly motivated, diverse workforce and (b) facilitate the empowerment of these trained individuals to conduct rigorous scientific research on social-structural factors to mitigate the effects of these comorbidities. We conclude that a diverse research workforce is necessary but insufficient for improving training-related outcomes or reducing comorbidity effects. Additional considerations are warranted that include systemic approaches and changes at the structural and institutional levels.
Modification of the inverted flap technique compared to conventional internal limiting membrane peeling in complete macular hole surgery
Authors: Carballés M.J. Crespo , Sastre-Ibáñez M. , Cura M. Prieto Del , Hoz R. De , Garcia-Saenz M.C.
Published: March 2023

Aim

To describe the efficacy of a modification of the superior inverted flap technique, with maculorrhexis, in vitrectomy for full-thickness macular hole (MH) surgery compared to internal limiting membrane peeling (ILM).

Methods

Retrospective and comparative study of patients with MH. In group A, a superior ILM flap is created to cover the macular hole, and in group B conventional ILM peeling was performed.

Results

A total of 80 eyes were included (44 group A and 36 group B). MH closure occurred in 100% in group A and 91.67% in group B (p = 0.0869). There were more U-type closures in group A(90.91%) than in group B(58.33%), p = 0.0017. Both groups showed Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement at 3 and 6 months. At 3 months BCVA in group A was significantly better but at 6 months results were similar. Ellipsoid layer (EZ) recovery at 6 months was achieved in 81.82% patients in group A and 52.78% in B (p = 0.005), and external limiting membrane in 81.82% in group A and 69.44% in B (p = 0.1957).

Conclusions

The superior inverted flap maculorrhexis technique is suitable for idiopathic MH treatment, with better anatomical and non-inferior functional results than the classic ILM peeling. It achieves functional recoveries earlier, better BCVA and greater gains at 3 months compared to the classic ILM peeling. It also obtains a higher number of U-shaped closures and higher EZ restorations.
Assessment of speech intelligibility in scholar classrooms by measurements and prediction methods
Authors: Di Loreto Samantha , Cantarini Michela , Squartini Stefano , Lori Valter , Serpilli Fabio , Di Perna Costanzo
Published: March 2023

According to Italian regulation, the Ministerial Decree of 11 October 2017 about Environmental Criteria, reference values for acoustic indoor quality descriptors in public buildings are imposed. Regarding school environments, indoor acoustic quality targets refer to reverberation time, clarity, and speech intelligibility, whose representative acoustic descriptor is the speech transmission index (STI). This paper presents pyeSTImate, a Python-based tool for speech transmission index prediction in lecture rooms. The tool returns fully simulated results from the dimensions and material characteristics of classrooms with parallelepiped geometry and without limitations in size. Extensive experiments have been conducted with different simulation methods, evaluating the accuracy by comparison with in situ measurements selected from primary, secondary, and university classrooms in school buildings of the Marche Region in Italy. The combination of simulated speech transmission indexes with a prediction method based on an artificial neural network has also been evaluated. The analysis of the performance demonstrates the computational robustness of the tool that enables its use for the analysis of existing rooms, as well as for the renovation and design of new spaces.
Why modify? Visually impaired students’ views on activity modifications in physical education
Authors: Haegele Justin A. , Salerno Marina , Nowland Lindsey A. , Zhu Xihe , Keene M. Ally , Ball Lindsay E.
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore the views of visually impaired youth about teacher-initiated activity modifications during integrated physical education. This experiential qualitative study included 18 visually impaired youth (ages 12–15 years; seven girls, 11 boys). Each participant completed two semi-structured interviews as data sources for this study. Four themes were constructed based on a reflexive thematic analysis of the interview data: (a) modifications interpreted as care; (b) “the angel and the devil”: modifications highlighting impairment; (c) the two-way street to modifications; and (d) modifications are Band-Aids over flawed activities and curriculum. These themes expand upon the current literature by describing how visually impaired youth understand their experiences with modifications in integrated physical education contexts. For many of the participants, activity modifications represented a tangible example of physical education teachers caring for them and caring about their needs. As such, some support for previously explicated benefits of modifications is provided. However, a number of concerns were also raised by our participants about modifications, such as modifications representing poorly conceptualized Band-Aids over poorly constructed activities, as well as modifications spotlighting differences and impairments. Finally, modifications that are promoted as simple and superficial ideas by the literature and executed by physical educators without communication with students appear to be unfavored by visually impaired students. This finding provides further support for the need to shift pedagogical strategies and teaching behaviors to become more flexible and student-centered.