bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involving stakeholders in designing a mental health curriculum for staff in the vision impairment sector
Authors: Nollett Claire , Cooke Peter , Labbett Simon , Margrain Tom , Thurston Mhairi
Published: May 2024

Depression and anxiety are common in people with congenital and acquired vision impairment but often go unaddressed. Staff from a variety of professions and roles in the sight impairment sector are well-placed to identify mental health issues and signpost individuals for support. However, many of these individuals need training to do this competently. The aim of this project was to develop a mental health training curriculum for staff. We used a seven-step method involving staff and service users from national sight loss charities and local authorities, and university researchers. The result was a curriculum containing five modules covering an introduction to mental well-being, the use of a standardised depression and anxiety screening tool, referral and support options and implementation issues to consider. Future work involves developing the curriculum into an online training programme for wide dissemination across the sight loss sector.
Research on internet of things (IoT) indexed in Web of Science from 2011–2022
Authors: Kang Zenan , Hamid Aamir , Ahmad Khurshid , Ali Nusrat
Published: May 2024

Academic publications have increased geometrically in the rapidly developing field of Internet of Things (IoT). Using the keywords “Internet of Things” in titles and abstracts, a large collection of scientific publications from 2011 to 2022 that were indexed in the Web of Science were examined in this study. Several software tools, including VOSviewer, ScientoPy, Biblioshiny and MS Excel, were used to analyze the data. According to the study's findings, the majority of publications in the field of IoT are written in English, and publications in this area are steadily rising. Rodrigues, Joel J. P. C. is the most prolific author. The most productive nation was found to be China, the Beijing University Posts & Telecommunication, a thriving institution. After the US and India, China has produced the greatest number of articles and received the greatest number of citations. The IEEE was found to be the most prolific publishing source, and the IEEE Internet of Things Journal was the most productive journal.
Unveiling Social Dynamics in People's Perception of Raptors to Guide Effective Conservation Strategies
Authors: Montenegro-Pazmiño Eliana , Muñoz Gabriel
Published: May 2024

Ethnoscientific approaches offer valuable tools for exploring human–nature relationships, making them useful for developing effective conservation strategies. Raptors, which are birds of prey, face significant conservation threats worldwide, with human persecution being a leading factor in their population decline. Urgent conservation strategies are needed, particularly in regions of high raptor diversity like the tropical Andes. In this study, we employed semistructured questionnaires and logistic models to investigate how demographic factors, economic activity, and traditional knowledge shape people's perceptions of raptors in rural communities of the Ecuadorian Andes. These communities have historically experienced poverty and inequality, and our approach takes into account their local realities to provide conservation recommendations. Our findings reveal that traditional ecological knowledge provides a broad understanding of human–raptor relations, and that raptors are viewed as both providers of ecosystem services and disservices. Additionally, social demographics, such as gender and educational level, can influence people's perception of raptors. Based on these results, we can promote conservation actions from a local to global level. Ethnoecological approaches offer diverse conservation opportunities that can vary based on different local contexts. In addition to conventional measures such as environmental education programs, poultry management, and landscape preservation, it is essential to consider the political ecology of specific sites, particularly in regions of the Global South where poverty and inequality are closely intertwined with social and environmental injustices. As such, policy making to alleviate poverty and inequality in rural communities in Ecuador and other Andean countries; and science decolonization to make conservation more inclusive are crucial for human well-being and successful and lasting conservation actions for raptors and biodiversity.
Survivin, β-catenin, and ki-67 immunohistochemical expression in canine perivascular wall tumors: Preliminary assessment of prognostic significance
Authors: Godizzi Francesco , Armando Federico , Boracchi Patrizia , Avallone Giancarlo , Stefanello Damiano , Ferrari Roberta , Chiti Lavinia E. , Cappelleri Andrea , Zamboni Clarissa , Dell’Aere Silvia , Corradi Attilio , Roccabianca Paola
Published: May 2024

High survivin expression has been correlated with poor outcomes in several canine tumors but not in soft tissue tumors (STTs). Survivin is a target gene of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which is involved in human STT oncogenesis. Immunohistochemistry for survivin, β-catenin, and Ki-67 was performed on 41 canine perivascular wall tumors (cPWTs), and statistical associations of protein expression and histopathologic and clinical variables with clinical outcomes were investigated. Immunohistochemically, there was nuclear positivity (0.9%–12.2% of tumor cells) for survivin in 41/41 (100%), cytoplasmic positivity (0 to > 75% of tumor cells) for survivin in 31/41 (76%), nuclear positivity (2.9%–67.2% of tumor cells) for β-catenin in 24/41 (59%), and cytoplasmic positivity (0% to > 75% of tumor cells) for β-catenin in 23/41 (56%) of cPWTs. All tumors expressed nuclear Ki-67 (2.2%–23.5%). In univariate analysis and multivariate analysis (UA and MA, respectively), every 1% increase of nuclear survivin was associated with an increase of the instantaneous death risk by a factor of 1.15 [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.15; P = .007]. Higher nuclear survivin was associated with grade II/III neoplasms ( P = .043). Expression of cytoplasmic survivin, nuclear and cytoplasmic β-catenin, and nuclear Ki-67 were not significantly associated with prognosis in UA nor MA. Tumor size was a significant prognostic factor for local recurrence in UA [subdistribution HR (SDHR) = 1.19; P = .02] and for reduced overall survival time in MA. According to UA and MA, a unitary increase of mitotic count was associated with an increase of the instantaneous death risk by a factor of 1.05 (HR = 1.05; P = .014). Nuclear survivin, mitotic count, and tumor size seem to be potential prognostic factors for cPWTs. In addition, survivin and β-catenin may represent promising therapeutic targets for cPWTs.
The metamorphosis of the Megatherium: Examples of Goethe's heterodox palaeontology
Authors: Sassoon Judyth
Published: May 2024

In this paper I present the well-known German literary giant Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832) as a heterodox thinker in palaeontology. In Britain, Goethe is best known as a poet, playwright and man of letters, despite producing substantial and detailed scientific studies to which he occasionally attached highly controversial interpretations. In his scientific studies and perhaps especially in palaeontology, Goethe was at times orthodox and at other times highly heterodox. His fundamental project was to comprehend the unifying principle within all nature and in that respect he was one of the early, great holistic thinkers. Goethe proposed a theory of a dynamic unifying ‘type’ for both plants and animals, working together with an inherent creative drive, which he believed was present in all nature. Here I show how he used this model to interpret the morphologies of extinct Plio-Pleistocene mammals such as the aurochs and giant sloth, and also demonstrate how Goethe's dynamic thinking led to some tentative pre-Darwinian transformationist (‘evolutionary’) propositions.
Systematic Approach to Evaluate the State of Illinois’ Preparedness for Smart Mobility
Authors: Jayme Angeli , Usta Berkan , Hamad Nadim , Tahlyan Divyakant , Johnson Breton , Mahmassani Hani , Al-Qadi Imad L. , Quandt Jerry
Published: May 2024

Connected, automated, shared, and electric (CASE) technologies are shaping Mobility 4.0—a connected, digitized, multimodal, and autonomous system of systems that is challenging past and existing strategic transportation planning practices at state and local levels. A systematic approach is presented to aid transportation agencies in their planning needs to evaluate preparedness for smart mobility. Guided by a set of online surveys, interviews, and workshops conducted among different stakeholders, this paper identifies strengths and opportunities to leverage the state’s public, private, and academic sector resources to prepare agencies in realizing the potential opportunities of Mobility 4.0 technologies, while avoiding possible pitfalls in the process. Seven smart mobility pillars were identified and ranked through a balanced scorecard analysis in this study for Illinois—namely (in decreasing order of importance), alternative fuels, scaling intelligent transportation systems, connected and automated (CA) freight, farm automation, CA logistics, insurance, and urban mobility. Tactical focus areas were also identified for each pillar and prioritized with suggested leads and stakeholders to champion the CASE directives and opportunities. Near-term actions were also suggested that included establishing a central structure for Illinois’ CASE program, enriching the knowledge base and experience, preparing the transportation infrastructure, partnerships with external stakeholders, and expansion of laws, regulations, and policies that will help administer and grow CASE technology deployment and integration.
Impact of thermal soil treatment on heavy metal mobility in the context of waste management
Authors: Vollprecht Daniel , Sattler Theresa , Kern Julia , Berrer Iris , Pomberger Roland
Published: May 2024

Thermal soil treatment is a well-established remediation method to remove organic contaminants from soils in waste management. The co-contamination with heavy metals raises the question if thermal soil treatment affects heavy metal mobility in soils. In this study, four contaminated soils and a reference sample were subjected to thermal treatment at 105°C, 300°C and 500°C for 7 day. Thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry were used to understand the reactions, and resulting gases were identified by Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy. Treated and untreated samples were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microprobe analysis and subjected to pH-dependent leaching tests, untreated samples additionally by X-ray-fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS). Leachates were analysed using ICP-MS and ion chromatography. Maximum available concentrations were used for hydrogeochemical modelling using LeachXS/Orchestra to predict leaching control mechanisms. Leaching experiments show that thermal treatment tends to decrease the mobility at alkaline pH of Pb, Zn, Cd, As and Cu, but to increase the mobility of Cr. In the acidic to neutral pH range, no clear trend is visible. Hydrogeochemical modelling suggests that adsorption processes play a key role in controlling leaching. It is suggested that the formation of minerals with a more negatively charged surface during thermal treatment are one reason why cations such as Pb2+, Zn2+, Cd2+ and Cu2+ are less mobile after treatment. Future research should focus on a more comprehensive mineralogical investigation of a larger number of samples, using higher resolution techniques such as nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry to identify surface phases formed during thermal treatment and/or leaching.
Development of a heavy vehicle torque rod applying continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite materials instead of forged steel material: Design, analysis and optimization
Authors: Hayırkuş Aslıhan , Motorcu Ali Riza , Yazıcı Murat
Published: May 2024

The torque rod is an important component of the suspension system that connects the axle to the chassis in heavy commercial vehicles. The main motivation of this study is the development of a torque rod made of (1) plus cross-section, (2) continuous carbon and glass fiber reinforced hybrid thermoplastic composites, which can replace a forged steel torque rod used in heavy vehicles, has superior mechanical properties, provides minimum cost and weight. This study aims to develop a torque rod before its production within the framework of integration with Computer Aided Design (CAD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM). In this study, the design data and the properties of the composite materials were chosen as control factors. The minimum displacement, the best mechanical properties such as tensile stress, compressive stress, torsional shear stress, maximum critical buckling load, and the minimum part weight minimum production cost per piece were selected as quality characteristics. As a result of the FEA study, considering the experimental set of the Taguchi Method L25 orthogonal array, the data on mechanical properties, weight, and production cost per piece were subjected to the MCDM process using the Entropy Weighted TOPSIS method. As a result of the MCDM study, a torque rod made of continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite material, instead of a torque rod produced by forged steel, had the highest mechanical properties produced, the weight of the torque rod can be reduced by 64.76%, and the production costs per piece can be reduced by 37.5%. This study’s findings have shown that the torque rod produced from continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite materials in a new geometry with a plus cross-section can be substituted for the torque rod produced by steel forging. Thus, it will contribute to reducing the fixed vehicle weight, especially in heavy commercial vehicles, reducing CO2emissions, and increasing the range of the vehicles.
Influence of fractal-based contact friction coefficient on the stiffness of disc springs: Experimental and numerical studies
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Li Shuaiyan , Su Tianyi , Yang Ziqi , Mao Zhiliang , Yuan Qingdi
Published: May 2024

In order to study the influence of friction coefficient on the stiffness of disc spring, A series of disc springs ( D = 71 mm) were selected in this paper. The tension and compression experiments of disc spring components were carried out by universal testing machine. The load-displacement characteristic curves of disc springs with different friction surfaces were obtained. The results show that in the loading process, the friction effect hinders the increase of the deformation of the disc spring, so that the actual stiffness of the disc spring is improved and the actual compensation amount is reduced, so this result is worthy of attention. In order to further study the influence of friction coefficient on the loading process of disc spring, according to the load-deformation formula of disc spring in A-L method, the tangential stress caused by friction is added, and the stiffness calculation model of corresponding disc spring is established by Workbench finite element software. The coefficients of different friction surfaces are used as variables for numerical calculation. The results show that the theoretical calculation, numerical calculation and experimental results of stiffness increase with the increase of friction coefficient under 0.55 h (the compensation displacement of A71 disc spring under the working displacement of corrugated tube ±10 mm). Among them, the numerical calculation results are close to the experimental results, and the error value is less than 1%. The numerical calculation results are corrected by using the experimental data, and the corrected model calculation results are in good agreement with the measured results.
Drone path planning and dynamic arena-target allocation for crowd surveillance
Authors: Chopra Onkar , Nagrare Samiksha Rajkumar , Jana Shuvrangshu , Ghose Debasish
Published: May 2024

The paper addresses the problem of surveillance of dynamic crowds in a bounded arena using multiple drones. The strategy proposes a prediction-based path planning approach for drones, where the target’s future position is predicted and used to generate a traverse path. The procedure for grouping numerous human beings in order to deal with a dense crowd scenario is also described. An algorithm to dynamically divide and allocate the arena to drones is also proposed to ensure equal workload distribution among all drones in the framework. The paper also discusses relevant concepts like detecting anomalous crowd activity and searching for any missing target in the arena. The proposed algorithms are validated on MATLAB environment numerically and ROS/Gazebo physics engine as a part of simulation-in-the-loop (SITL).
Not Everybody Has an Inner Voice: Behavioral Consequences of Anendophasia
Authors: Nedergaard Johanne S. K. , Lupyan Gary
Published: May 2024

It is commonly assumed that inner speech—the experience of thought as occurring in a natural language—is a human universal. Recent evidence, however, suggests that the experience of inner speech in adults varies from near constant to nonexistent. We propose a name for a lack of the experience of inner speech—anendophasia—and report four studies examining some of its behavioral consequences. We found that adults who reported low levels of inner speech ( N = 46) had lower performance on a verbal working memory task and more difficulty performing rhyme judgments compared with adults who reported high levels of inner speech ( N = 47). Task-switching performance—previously linked to endogenous verbal cueing—and categorical effects on perceptual judgments were unrelated to differences in inner speech.
Dear Norman
Authors: Weems Mary E.
Published: May 2024

This autoethnographic response written in letter form to the late, Norman K. Denzin reflects the author’s admiration, respect and love for a professor, dissertation chair and colleague.
Building the Environment for Narrative Inquiry With Young People With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Wellington Monica , David Jennifer , Frawley Patsie , O’Shea Amie , Dew Angela
Published: May 2024

Narrative inquiry methods are central to qualitative research that seeks to understand phenomena through the lived experiences of research participants. This research used a form of narrative inquiry—storytelling, to invite four young people with intellectual disability referred to as the “story owners” to share their stories about sexuality and relationships. Through a reflexive approach, this article unpacks the relational and physical contexts that surrounded the narrative inquiry methods, which the researchers describe as the narrative environment. In this narrative environment, each story owner co-developed their story with an academic researcher. The research found that the key components of the narrative environment which were co-created somewhat differently by each story owner were space and place, objects, people, and relationships and communication. Take home messages provided in this research can assist novice researchers and co-researchers in their methodological approach to narrative research with people with intellectual disability.
The Qualitative Historical Origins of Mad Studies in Word and Deed, 1436–1914
Authors: Reaume Geoffrey
Published: May 2024

Periodically from the 15th to early 20th centuries, mad people left written accounts of their experiences. Originally written by upper- and middle-class White authors who had both the money and literacy skills to record their thoughts, since the late 19th century, the diversity of mad people’s writings has increased to reflect more representative experiences regarding class, gender and, to a lesser extent, race and disability. The origins of what is now called “Mad Studies” can be found among writers discussed here, though long before such a field came to formally exist. From the 18th century, there were also individuals and organized groups who challenged abusive practices and attitudes toward mad people, whose efforts are precursors to recent activist histories. This article reflects on how Mad Studies is the direct beneficiary of centuries of critical analyses and activism by mad people long before contemporary times.
An Integrated Framework for Analysis and Prediction of Impact of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Associated with Human Diseases
Authors: Muhammad Syed Shah , Shoaib Muhammad , Pervez Muhammad Tariq
Published: May 2024

Single nucleotide polymorphisms are most common type of genetic variation in human genome. Analyzing genetic variants can help us better understand the genetic basis of diseases and develop predictive models which are useful to identify individuals who are at increased risk for certain diseases. Several SNP analysis tools have already been developed. For running these tools, the user needs to collect data from various databases. Secondly, often researchers have to use multiple variant analysis tools for cross validating their results and increase confidence in their findings. Extracting data from multiple databases and running multiple tools at a time, increases complexity and time required for analysis. There are some web-based tools that integrate multiple genetic variant databases and provide variant annotations for a few tools. These approaches have some limitations such as retrieving annotation information, filtering common pathogenic variants. The proposed web-based tool, namely IPSNP: An Integrated Platform for Predicting Impact of SNPs is written in Django which is a python-based framework. It uses RESTful API of MyVariant.info to extract annotation information of variants associated with a given gene, rsID, HGVS format variants specified in a VCF file for 29 tools. The results are in the form of a CSV file of predictions (1) derived from the consensus decision, (2) a file having annotations for the variants associated with the given gene, (3) a file showing variants declared as pathogenic commonly by the selected tools, and (4) a CSV file containing chromosome coordinates based on GRCh37 and GRCh38 genome assemblies, rsIDs and proteomic data, so that users may use tools of their choice and avoiding manual parameter collection for each tool. IPSNP is a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians and it can help to save time and effort in discovering the novel disease-associated variants and the development of personalized treatments.
‘100 large fruit trees cut down by ISAF’: land, infrastructure and military violence
Authors: Tidy Joanna
Published: May 2024

This article examines the military violence of land use and infrastructure. The analysis discusses the case of the British Army’s Royal Corps of Engineers in 1860s British Columbia and in Helmand, Afghanistan following the post-2001 invasion. It charts how across British colonial and liberal military projects, military infrastructure activities have mobilised towards the goal of capitalist development. Drawing analytic lines between the Royal Engineers’ activities establishing the settler colony and colonial capitalism in British Columbia and their role in imposing liberal social, political and economic norms in Helmand, the article puts forward an account of why, how and with what effect military violence can include things such as the felling of trees, the issuing of private land title, the use of topsoil for road fill or prohibiting local farmers from growing tall crops near a roadway. The central argument of this article is that we should conceptualise and understand military activities such as these as violence. This analysis develops understandings of violence within scholarship addressing coloniality, liberal war, settler colonialism; and land, territory and infrastructure. Beyond the immediate analysis of specifically military violence, this discussion has broader implications for understanding the nexus of infrastructure, land and violence.
Thermal-force coupling simulation of carbon fibre-reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone thermoplastic composites during the laser-assisted automated tape placement process
Authors: Zhang Cheng-Hao , Wang Fei , Zhang Cheng-Shuang , Bao Yan-Ling , Wang Meng-Jie , Liu Dong , Wu Jing , Su Zhong-Min
Published: May 2024

To reveal the thermal-force coupling characteristics of the laser in-situ consolidation (ISC) of carbon fibre-reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone (CF/PEEK) composites, a two-dimensional transient thermal-force model of CF/PEEK composites was constructed using COMSOL Multiphysics finite element simulation software to calculate the temperature history and the thermal stress variation of CF/PEEK composites during the laser-assisted automated tape placement (LATP) process. The results show that the temperature field formed on the surface of each layer by the laser spot during LATP is stable, and the temperature gradient at the front of the spot movement direction is higher than that at the back edge. The maximum stresses in the laminate occur on both sides of the first CF/PEEK layer and the stresses are unevenly distributed along the length and thickness directions of the lay-up. The composite material on both sides of the laminate tends to ‘shrink’ compared to its original position.
COVID-19 and Family Visits: A Systematic Jurisdiction Analysis of Family Visitation and Safety Policies in Juvenile Correctional Facilities in the United States
Authors: Muñiz Julissa O. , Corcoran Frederique , Camper Mariah , Gruber Samuel , Eddy J. Mark , Dallaire Danielle
Published: May 2024

When COVID-19 first hit the United States, juvenile correctional facilities across the country discontinued all in-person activities including family visits. Correctional facilities across the country were among the last institutions to reopen their doors for in-person activities given the heightened risk of rapid spread. Drawing on data gathered in February and March 2022, this study examined the state of family visitation policies and COVID-19 safety responses adopted by juvenile correctional facilities, as reported on websites, including information on the different types of contact allowed; COVID-19 safety protocols and practices; availability of information on COVID-19 infection and vaccination rates; and the overall timeliness, consistency, and comprehensiveness of the information available to families with incarcerated minor children. Our findings highlight just how untimely, inconsistent, and incomprehensive information and policies were across jurisdictions, sometimes with little to no stated explanation for their decision-making. We argue that juvenile correctional facilities should take a family-focused approach when developing and disseminating policies that impact the lives of incarcerated youth and their families, especially in times of global uncertainty.
Long-term Effects of COVID-19 on Vascular Parameters—A Prospective Longitudinal Ultrasound Clinical Study
Authors: Chen James , Smith Kane , Xu Qian , Ali T’shura , Cavallazzi Rodrigo , Ghafghazi Shahab , Clifford Sean P. , Arnold Forest W. , Kong Maiying , Huang Jiapeng
Published: May 2024

Objective:

To investigate the longitudinal effects of COVID-19 on major vascular structures and parameters and clinical outcomes.

Design:

Observational prospective trial.

Setting:

Post-COVID-19 research clinic established by University of Louisville Division of Infectious Diseases.

Participants:

The study population consisted of 72 post-COVID-19 individuals and 11 non-COVID-19 infected participants in the control group. The participants were recruited from adult hospitals and from the community. The enrollment started in October 2020 and follow-up periods were at 3, 6, and 12 months from their initial COVID-19 diagnosis.

Interventions:

The participants were interviewed for medical and COVID-19 infection history. Samples of white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), and D-dimer were taken at each visit. Certified sonographers performed vascular ultrasound on the study participants.

Measurements and Main Results:

Median intima-media thickness (IMT) was increased in mild/asymptomatic (0.80 mm) and severe/critical (0.90 mm) groups when compared with controls (0.60 mm; P < .001 for both groups). In the asymptomatic/mild group, 6-month median IMT (0.88 mm) was increased, compared with the 3-month group (0.75 mm), with P = .026. Increased age was associated with decreased mean arterial blood velocities (cm/s): common carotid ( r = −0.236, P = .032), internal carotid ( r = −0.208, P = .048), and subclavian artery mean velocity ( r = −0.357, P = .003). We did not find any instance of deep vein thrombosis. Median D-dimer, CRP, and WBC in the control group differed from asymptomatic/mild COVID-19 group ( P = .026, .011, and .003, respectively). Moreover, WBC in the asymptomatic/mild group and moderate COVID-19 group differed from severe/critical group ( P = .025 and P = .027, respectively); CRP also differed between asymptomatic/mild group and severe/critical group ( P = .014).

Conclusions:

There were differences in intima-media lumen thickness (IMT), arterial velocities, and inflammatory markers in post-COVID-19 patients. There was no instance of deep vein thrombosis in this post-COVID-19 study cohort. The increased IMT might infer atherosclerosis, which has shown to increase cardiovascular risks. It is not yet known whether the increase in IMT due to COVID should be treated in the same way as non-COVID-19 atherosclerosis—through statins, for example—or whether regular cardiovascular risk reduction would be useful. Clinical trial and mechanistic studies should be performed to further our understanding of COVID-19-related vascular pathologies.
The role of clinical breast examination and fine needle aspiration cytology in early detection of breast cancer: A cross-sectional study nested in a cohort in a low-resource setting
Authors: Mremi Alex , Pallangyo Angela , Mshana Thadeus , Mashauri Onstard , Kimario Walter , Nkya Gilbert , Mwakyembe Theresia Edward , Mollel Edson , Amsi Patrick , Mmbaga Blandina Theophil
Published: May 2024

Background:

Breast cancer is prevalent worldwide, with disparities in screening, diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and survival. In Africa, the majority of women are diagnosed at advanced stages, affecting treatment outcomes. Screening is one of the best strategies to reduce mortality rates caused by this cancer. Yet in a resource-constrained setting, there is limited access to screening and early detection services, which are available only at a few referral hospitals.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and screening results of breast cancer using clinical breast examination coupled with fine needle aspiration cytology in a resource-constraint setting.

Design:

A combined cross-sectional and cohort study.

Methods:

Women at risk of developing breast cancer in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania were invited, through public announcements, to their primary healthcare facilities. A questionnaire was used to assess the participants’ characteristics. The women received a clinical breast examination, and detectable lesions were subjected to a confirmatory fine needle aspiration cytology or an excisional biopsy. Preliminary data from this ongoing breast cancer control program were extracted and analyzed for this study.

Results:

A total of 3577 women were screened for breast cancer; their mean age was 47 ± 7.53 years. About a third of them (1145, 32%) were practicing self-breast examination at least once a month. Of 200 (5.6%) with abnormal clinical breast examination, 18 (9%) were confirmed to be breast cancer, making the prevalence to be 0.5%. The vast majority of participants with breast cancer (13, 72.2%) had early disease stages, and infiltrating ductal carcinoma, no special type, was the most common (15, 83.3%) histopathology subtype. Hormonal receptor status determination results indicated that 11 (61.1%), 7 (38.9%), and 5 (27.8%) of the tumors overexpressed estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal receptor-2, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrates 5.6% of Tanzanian women have abnormal clinical breast examination findings, with 9% having breast cancer. Nearly three-quarters (72.2%) of breast cancer screened for early disease were detected in the early disease stages. This finding suggests that organized screening with clinical breast examination coupled with fine needle aspiration cytology, which is a simple and cost-effective screening method, has the potential to improve early detection and outcomes for breast cancer patients in a resource-constraint setting.
Spatial organisation in the human mind as a function of the distance between stimuli
Authors: Fenwick Hannah , Campitelli Guillermo , Guida Alessandro
Published: May 2024

Studies investigating serial order in working memory have shown that participants from Western cultures are faster at responding to items presented at the beginning of a sequence using their left hand and faster at responding to items at the end with their right hand. This is known as the spatial positional association of response codes (SPoARC) effect. The SPoARC effect provides evidence that recently presented information is spatially organised in the cognitive system along a horizontal axis. This study investigated the flexibility of spatialisation by testing the effect that distance between items presented on a screen has on the magnitude of the SPoARC effect. It was hypothesised that by increasing the distance between items on a screen a larger SPoARC effect would be found. We used three conditions: central, narrow, and wide. In central, four random letters were presented sequentially at the centre of the screen, in narrow the letters were presented from left to right on the screen, wide was the same as narrow but the separation between the letters was larger. Participants consisted of 64 adults aged 18–55 years. Participants were presented with four random letters, followed by single probe letter; participants had to indicate, by pressing a key on a normal keyboard, if the probe had been in the sequence. We analysed the data with multilevel modelling. We found evidence for the SPoARC effect in all three conditions. But no evidence that the effect varied between conditions.
Exploring “phasic” vs. “tonic” accounts of the effect of switch probability on the auditory attention switch cost
Authors: Strivens Amy , Koch Iring , Lavric Aureliu
Published: May 2024

Task-switching experiments have shown that the “switch cost” (poorer performance for task switches than for repetitions) is smaller when the probability of a switch is high (e.g., 0.75) than when it is low (e.g., 0.25). Some theoretical accounts explain this effect in terms of top-down control deployed in advance of the task cue (“pre-cue reconfiguration”). We tested such accounts by manipulating the time available before the onset of the cue (the response-cue interval, RCI), reasoning that top-down pre-cue reconfiguration requires time and therefore its effect should increase with RCI. Participants heard a man and a woman simultaneously speaking number words and categorised the number (< 5 vs. > 5) spoken by the voice specified by a pictorial gender-related cue presented at an RCI of 100 ms or 2,200 ms. The target voice switched with a probability of 0.25 or 0.75 (in separate sessions). In Experiment 1, RTs revealed a large effect of switch probability on the switch cost in the short RCI, which did not increase in the long RCI. Errors hinted at such an increase, but it did not receive clear statistical support and was disconfirmed by a direct and better powered replication in Experiment 2, which fully confirmed the RT pattern from Experiment 1. Thus, the effect of switch probability on the switch cost required little/no time following the response to emerge—it was already at full magnitude at a short RCI—challenging accounts that assume “phasic” deployment of top-down task-set control in advance of the cue.
Supraglottitis: An airway emergency
Authors: Jaroenchasri Miss Rungphloy , Wood Mr Fergus , Chan Dr Isaac
Published: May 2024

Supraglottitis is a life-threatening condition and refers to inflammation of the epiglottis and the surrounding supraglottic structures. Children usually present with only a swollen epiglottis, termed epiglottitis. Fortunately, the incidence of epiglottitis in children has declined following routine Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccination, but the incidence in adults has increased. Supraglottitis has a high morbidity and mortality from the associated risk of airway obstruction. Therefore, early recognition and urgent secondary care referral is paramount. However, the presentation of this condition can be subtle and differs between children and adults; this can lead to difficulties in diagnosis. This article will review the clinical presentation and management of supraglottitis, an important differential for acute sore throat and hoarse voice.
Group Singing-Related Technique Workshops for People with Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Cooper Emily , Timmers Renee , Bonshor Michael , Esposito Karen , Jansen Mir , Bevan Christopher
Published: May 2024

Inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO) is an upper-airway disorder involving a heightened sensitivity of the larynx, obstructing airflow and potentially leading to breathing difficulties. Speaking can trigger, and be affected by, ILO symptoms. This research explored the feasibility of singing-related workshops for people with ILO. The aim was to increase participants’ vocal confidence by combining relaxation with improved control, tone, and projection. Five participants consented to participate in the research. The workshops were led by a voice teacher (VT) and a speech and language therapist (SLT), focusing on posture, breathing techniques, and singing techniques. Ten weekly workshops took place online, with the final session being hybrid where most participants attended in person. Data collection included weekly response forms with Likert scales to rate speaking and singing confidence and feedback on the workshops; interviews with VT and SLT; workshop observations; and a participant reflection questionnaire following the program. Participants reported a significant improvement in speaking and singing confidence as the workshops progressed. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: improvements in confidence, specifically in speaking and singing; the value of social support and meeting others with the condition; specific techniques and approaches that were beneficial; and benefits and disadvantages of the online format. This research demonstrates the feasibility of group singing workshops for people with ILO who do not have a background in singing, using an online format. It confirms the potential benefits of using singing-related techniques for this condition, supporting confidence in speaking and singing. Further research would be useful to extend the findings from this initial project and to provide a firm basis for introducing further programs using singing-related techniques for people with a range of upper-airway disorders. Future developments could include introducing these techniques in clinical settings and using them alongside (or as part of) speech and language therapy.
Clostridioides Difficile: A Concise Review of Best Practices and Updates
Authors: Yakout Abdelrahman , Bi Yan , Harris Dana M.
Published: May 2024

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is one of the most common and severe nosocomial infections worldwide. It can also affect healthy individuals in the community. The incidence of CDI has been on the rise globally for the past decade, necessitating a proactive approach to combat its spread; new strategies are being developed to enhance diagnostic accuracy and optimize treatment outcomes. Implementing the 2-step testing has increased diagnostic specificity, reducing the usage of CD-specific antibiotics with no concomitant increase in surgical complication rates. In 2021, the Infectious Diseases Society of America/Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (IDSA/SHEA) shifted its preference for initial treatment to fidaxomicin over vancomycin and metronidazole due to its lower recurrence rate. It also prioritized fidaxomicin for the treatment of recurrent CDI. There are new developments on the frontiers of fecal microbiota therapies, with RBX2660 and SER-109 approved recently by the FDA for prevention, with other microbiome-based therapies in various development and clinical trials. This review offers providers an updated and practical guide for CDI management.
Primary Human Papillomavirus Test Uptake and Cervical Cancer Screening Trends in the Midwest, United States
Authors: Ehman Katie M. , Jenkins Gregory D. , Grimm Jessica A. , Cammack Taylor L. , Samuelson Brittanee J. , Stoll Rebecca J. , Maxson Julie A. , MacLaughlin Kathy L.
Published: May 2024

Introduction/Objectives:

Despite U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and American Cancer Society endorsement of primary HPV screening, limited published data shows low uptake.

Primary Aim:

Assess cervical cancer screening rates over time, particularly primary HPV test uptake, among patients in a midwestern practice.

Secondary Aim:

Evaluate associations between sociodemographics and screening adherence.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study. Qualifying subjects and type of screening test used were identified by applying ICD-9, ICD-10, lab test, and CPT codes to the Unified Data Platform. Sociodemographics were found through the electronic health record.

Results:

Primary HPV uptake represented <1% of annual screening from 1/2017 to 1/2022. On 1/1/2022, only 55% of 21 to 29 year old and 63% of 30 to 65 year old were up to date with screening among the studied population. For 21 to 29 year old, compared with White women, Black women were 28% less likely to be screened [RR = 0.72 (0.66-0.79)]. Compared with never-smokers, current smokers were 9% less likely to be screened [RR = 0.91 (0.87-0.96)], past smokers were 14% more likely [RR = 1.14 (1.09-1.2)]. Among 30 to 65 year old, compared with White women, Black women were 14% less likely to be screened [RR = 0.86 (0.81-0.9)]. Compared with never-smokers, current smokers were 21% less likely to be screened [RR = 0.79 (0.77-0.81)], past smokers were 6% less likely [RR = 0.94 (0.92-0.95)]. Jointly considering race, ethnicity, smoking status, Charlson score, and rurality, findings were similar for 21 to 29 year old; Black women were screened less than White women [RR = 0.73 (0.67-0.79)]; current smokers [RR = 0.9 (0.85-0.94)] and past smokers [RR = 1.12 (1.06-1.17)] were screened less than never smokers. For 30 to 65 year old, Black women were screened less than White women [RR = 0.83 (0.79-0.88)]; current smokers [RR = 0.8 (0.78-0.81)] and past smokers [RR = 0.95 (0.93-0.96)] were screened less than never smokers.

Conclusions:

Screening rates remained below the Healthy People 2030 goal of 79.2% over time, particularly for younger Black women and current smokers, with minimal use of primary HPV screening.
The future of prison visits? An autoethnographic perspective on the developments of the digitisation of prison visits during COVID-19
Authors: Antojado Dwayne , Ryan Nicole
Published: May 2024

This article explores the current status, evolution, and envisaged future of prison visits, analysing the shift in paradigm from traditional models to an increasingly digital format that demands specific policy amendments and fosters an empathetic approach towards incarceration. The discourse begins with an in-depth examination of the current prison visitation models, delving into the strengths, weaknesses, and potential of both in-person and video visitations. This exploration uncovers the critical shortcomings of in-person visits, such as limited accessibility due to geographical and logistical constraints, and the rising potential of video visits to bridge these gaps. Simultaneously, we highlight the challenges in implementing video visitation systems, focusing on issues such as equitable access to technology, appropriate surveillance, and privacy regulations. It underscores the need for considering both sides of the coin, i.e., the convenience and feasibility of video visits versus the potential risks to the privacy and dignity of incarcerated people and their families. The article then delves into the policy considerations necessary to ensure a smooth transition to video visitations, exploring regulatory and statutory amendments needed to safeguard incarcerated individuals' rights and ensure a more humane prison system. The analysis uncovers a pressing need for a robust framework that not only respects privacy rights and promotes familial ties but also supports an important goal of prisons – effective rehabilitation of incarcerated people. Proposing an idealised future model for prison visits, the discourse presents a hybrid approach that skilfully combines the strengths of both in-person and video connections. This innovative model reimagines the future of prison visits, suggesting a shift from punitive and impersonal methods to empathetic and relationship-focused practices that align with contemporary understandings of rehabilitation.
‘Obliged in self-defence to retaliate’. Violent sailors in nineteenth-century Bristol
Authors: Davey Joe
Published: May 2024

This article is a study of merchant sailors in Bristol between 1850–1914. There is a stereotypical perception of the sailor as being a drunken, promiscuous, violent nuisance on the streets of a port town. This perception has been fashioned through popular imagery and imagination but also through an historiography that has largely investigated sailors in maritime and nautical contexts. Here I take a different approach and investigate one aspect of working-class culture, namely a man’s propensity for violence, in the context of Bristol’s urban, working-class culture. It will be argued that in their use of violence sailors were not the perceived breed apart but were an integrated presence in Bristol’s wider working-class culture. The reasons for violence, the methods used and the chosen victims of it were not the product of any maritime identity but were constructed from an urban one. Naturally, many sailors continued to display the stereotypical behavioural traits of sailors but there were also those who were aligned to a more respectable way of living. Cultural forces towards masculine respectability tempered some of sailors’ violent behaviours, as did the space available for violence, and consequently places sailors firmly within working-class culture.