bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accessible Participation in Academic Conferences if You Are Visually Impaired
Authors: Van Havermaet Jentel , van de Merbel Leendert , Van Hove Geert , De Schauwer Elisabeth
Published: July 2023

Participating in academic events of knowledge exchange is primordial for researchers. The experiential experiences of people with visual impairments with accessibility differences in such scientific practices are reflected. The theoretical concept of ‘accessible participation’ is linked with the exchange of lived experiences of the first two authors—both PhD researchers who are visually impaired—who take part in academic conferences in the domain of Disability Studies. Boundary conditions, intensive preparation, connecting with colleagues and making scientific contributions are analysed as accessibility issues that are necessary to enable participation in an academic context.
A Critical Discourse Analysis of the UK SEND Review Green Paper
Authors: Pluquailec Jill , O’Connor Gill
Published: July 2023

In this paper we carry out a Critical Discourse Analysis (cda) of the UK Government’s 2022 Green Paper ‘Right Support, Right Place, Right Time’, known as ‘the SEND Review’. Our analysis is informed both by Hyatt’s (2013) Critical Higher Education Policy Discourse Analysis (chepda) framework and by our cognizance of how the term ‘special educational needs’ is constructed in the context of the state’s active and passive enactment of policies that continue to diminish the quality of disabled people’s lives. Our analysis focuses principally on deconstruction of the Green Paper with close attention to modes of legitimation, interdiscursivity, intertextuality, presupposition/implication, and lexico-grammatical construction. We present three main areas of interest: the (mis)use of and omission of ‘need’, the ubiquitous and ambiguous use of ‘we’, and the presentation of ‘newness’ in the SEND Review.
Ambiguity, Contingency, and Dominance: Decolonizing Theories of Modernity
Authors: Linkenbach Antje
Published: July 2023

Focusing on the work of Johann P. Arnason and Peter Wagner, this article examines in its first part recent sociological, non-linear and contingency-sensitive ways of engagement with modernity, which refer to different levels of socio-historical configuration (civilization analysis vs. world sociology) and attribute different significance to normative questions. While both authors acknowledge the entanglement of European and non-European cultural worlds as well as its power dynamics, they still fail to fully grasp and theorize the devastating role of colonialism, which today is still felt in the marginalisation and even erasure of knowledge, perspectives, ideas and experiences from the ‘non-West’. Their approaches also lack a serious engagement with post- and decolonial scholarship. The second part of this contribution presents decolonial thinking as a theoretical and normative-political project. Theorising modernity from ‘beyond’ invites us to ‘break the Western code’ (Mignolo) and engage with modernity from a perspective that is grounded in different epistemologies, philosophies and social imaginaries, ultimately questioning autonomy and mastery (over humans and nature) as basic premises or axioms of Western modernity. As a normative-political project decoloniality is future-oriented and, focusing on the temporally, spatially and socially contextualized acting subjects and collectives, aims to rebuild a polycentric world and establishes ‘pluriversality as a universal project’ (Mignolo). The Zapatista movement in Chiapas (Mexico), representing a new understanding of the revolutionary subject and the revolutionary praxis, illustrates how indigenous groups and (urban) Marxists can come together as equals, learn from each other and negotiate how to change the world in discourse and practice.
Standardising the biochemical confirmation of adult male hypogonadism; a joint position statement by the Society for Endocrinology and Association of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine*
Authors: Jayasena Channa N , de Silva Nipun Lakshitha , O’Reilly Michael W , MacKenzie Finlay , Marrington Rachel , Jones Hugh , Livingston Mark , Downie Paul , Hackett Geoff , Ramachandran Sud , Tomlinson Jeremy , David Janine , Boot Christopher , Patel Mayur , Tarling Julie , Wu Fredrick , Quinton Richard
Published: July 2023

Background: Inter-assay variation between different immunoassays and different mass spectrometry methods hampers the biochemical confirmation of male hypogonadism. Furthermore, some laboratories utilis eassay manufacturer reference ranges that do not necessarily mirror assay performance characteristics, with the lower limit of normality ranging from 4.9 nmol/L to 11 nmol/L. The quality of the normative data underlying commercial immunoassay reference ranges is uncertain.

Design: A working group reviewed published evidence and agreed upon standardised reporting guidance to augment total testosterone reports. Results: Evidence-based guidance on appropriate blood sampling, clinical action limits, and other major factors likely to affect the interpretation of results are provided. Conclusions: This article aims to improve the quality of the interpretation of testosterone results by non-specialist clinicians. It also discusses approaches for assay harmonisation which have been successful in some but not all healthcare systems.
Book review: Bidyut Mohanty, A Haunting Tragedy: Gender, Caste and Class in the 1866 Famine of Orissa
Authors: Kumar Raj
Published: July 2023

Bidyut Mohanty, A Haunting Tragedy: Gender, Caste and Class in the 1866 Famine of Orissa (Manohar, 2022), 421 pp., ₹2095 (Hardback).
Psychometric Analysis of a Measure of Spiritual Experiences in Peruvian Adults
Authors: Morales-García Wilter C. , Romero Jeysson , Huancahuire-Vega Salomón , Ruiz Mamani Percy G. , Sairitupa-Sanchez Liset Z. , Saintila Jacksaint
Published: July 2023

Research on spirituality has increased considerably in the last decade.

This study analyzes the psychometric properties of the Daily Spiritual Experience Scale (DSES) in a Peruvian sample.

The study had a cross-sectional design. The population was Peruvian adults with ages ranging between 18 and 70 years ( M = 30.60, SD = 11.22) recruited through nonprobabilistic sampling. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach’s alpha (α), McDonalds’ omega (ω), and H-coefficient ( H).

The structure of 16 items was not confirmed. A 13-item DSES unidimensional model was suggested (χ2 = 184.78, df = 65; confirmatory fit index [CFI] = 0.92, Tucker–Lewis index [TLI] = 0.91, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.08, standardized root mean square residuals [SRMR] = 0.04) and the DSES-6 model (χ2 = 9.570, df = 9; CFI = 1.00, TLI = 1.00, RMSEA = 0.02, SRMR = 0.02) and its reliability had excellent values. Concurrent validity with measures of anxiety and depression were evidenced.

The DSES-13 and DSES-6 versions are valid and reliable instruments to evaluate spiritual experiences in the Peruvian context.
Representative Bureaucracy, Age-Friendly Planning, and the Role of Gender, Public Engagement, and Professional Management
Authors: Warner Mildred E. , Zhang Xue
Published: July 2023

What leads to more age-friendly cities: professional management, passive gender representation in management, or active public engagement? In a survey of 1,378 local governments, age-friendly features were measured in the community comprehensive plan, zoning codes, and economic development plan. Gender representation does not distinguish level of age-friendly planning, but public engagement promotes age-friendly practices in all three areas: comprehensive plans, zoning, and economic development plans. Structural equation models find professionalism and public engagement matter more than gender representation in management, as they promote active representation, which leads to more age-friendly practices.
Sub-acute effects of psilocybin on EEG correlates of neural plasticity in major depression: Relationship to symptoms
Authors: Skosnik Patrick D , Sloshower Jordan , Safi-Aghdam Hamideh , Pathania Surbhi , Syed Shariful , Pittman Brian , D’Souza Deepak C
Published: July 2023

Background:

Evidence suggests that serotonergic psychedelics (e.g. psilocybin), have rapid-acting and long-lasting antidepressant effects after a single dose. However, the mechanism underlying these effects remain unclear. One proposed mechanism is that these drugs promote neuroplasticity. However, this has not been conclusively demonstrated in humans.

Aims:

We hypothesized that relative to placebo, psilocybin would: (1) increase electroencephalographic (EEG) correlates of neuroplasticity, (2) reduce depression symptoms, and (3) changes in EEG would correlate with improvements in depression.

Methods:

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subject study, individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD; n = 19) were administered placebo followed by psilocybin (0.3 mg/kg) in a fixed order (placebo, followed by psilocybin 4 weeks later). EEG indices of neuroplasticity (tetanus-induced long-term potentiation) as assessed via auditory evoked theta (4–8 Hz) power and measures of depression (GRID Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression-17 (GRID-HAM-D-17)) were measured at several time-points after placebo and psilocybin (24 h and 2 weeks after each session).

Results:

EEG theta power doubled in amplitude 2 weeks after a single psychedelic dose of psilocybin but not after placebo. Further, improvements in depression symptoms 2 weeks after psilocybin were correlated with increases in theta power.

Conclusions:

The increased theta power observed represents evidence of sustained changes in the brain following psilocybin. Given the correlation with enhancement in depressive symptoms, changes in theta may represent an EEG biomarker of the sustained effects of psilocybin, and may shed light on potential mechanisms of psilocybin’s antidepressant effect. Taken together, these results complement the emerging notion that psilocybin, and perhaps other psychedelics, can produce long-term alterations in neuroplasticity.
A propensity to thrive: Understanding individual difference, resilience and entrepreneurship in developing competence and professional identity
Authors: Cade Liz
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

This paper draws on a study and its findings that set out to explore why some students appear to thrive, turning placement experiences into positive empowering opportunities despite the challenges, where others may not. Findings established a broader application beyond placements to inform curriculum design and delivery that nurtures professionalism, competence and identity from pre-admission to transition into practice as a journey of growth and development.

Method:

A mixed-methods approach was adopted. Questionnaires and interviews gathered data from two cohorts in traditional ( n = 25) or role-emerging placements ( n = 13). An interpretive approach was employed for the qualitative data. The quantitative data underwent statistical analysis.

Findings:

Students in role-emerging placements scored higher in resilience prior to and developed greater resilience as a consequence. These students scored higher in traits of openness, conscientiousness, extraversion and agreeableness and were more emotionally stable compared with students in traditional placements. Agreeableness was positively correlated with greater resilience in these students.

Conclusion:

Curricula design and delivery should embed opportunities throughout programmes of study enabling students to nurture an openness to new experiences, with positive risk taking, building an ability to thrive. Understanding individual differences in students informs the development of competence and identity pivotal for transition into practice.
Tech worker activism against gender discrimination in China
Authors: Liu Hong Yu
Published: July 2023

This article discusses the discriminatory, anti-women workplace culture in China’s tech industry and how tech workers organise online activism in response. In August 2021, an online petition broke out to demand justice for a sexual crime victim at the Chinese e-commerce enterprise Alibaba. This is a powerful example of digital activism leaping beyond the constraints and challenges of labour organising in the global tech sector. The article shows how social media could bring new possibilities to the tech worker movement in both authoritarian and democratic countries.
The Imagined City: The Great Flood of 1997 as a Foundation Story of Wrocław
Authors: Biskupska Kamilla
Published: July 2023

Wrocław started its existence on the ruins of German Breslau, several dozen years ago, as a result of the Potsdam Conference. The article is a voice in the discussion about the situation of the city, which, deprived of the possibility to draw on its foreign cultural heritage (the existence of which was ignored in official studies), still struggles with the problem of defining its identity. I present this issue based on actions taken by elites since Wrocław’s establishment as a Polish city. These elites have been creating successive narrative “identity projects” for Wrocław’s citizens. The main thread of my analysis is the city’s foundation story, built in relation to the flood that Wrocław experienced in 1997. According to this story, the fight against the water flooding the city became a watershed moment in the city’s history; it was a shock, thanks to which the citizens of Wrocław finally became conscious citizens, felt an emotional bond with their city, and took responsibility for the testimonies of its pre-war, non-Polish past. All this happened several decades after creating Wrocław in 1945 and promoting, for decades, its unquestionable Polishness. I confront this foundation story with the image of this flood that emerges from the statements of ordinary residents of the city. The flood of 1997, as seen by ordinary citizens of Wrocław, is built from memories of the mundane but acute impediments of everyday life, neighbourly support, and post-flood waste.
Moving Toward Integration or Segregation? Racial Change in Suburban Public Schools
Authors: Mordechay Kfir , Terbeck Fabian J
Published: July 2023

Suburbs across the US are experiencing demographic shifts with consequences for suburban schools. While scholars have expressed concern about rising segregation among suburban public schools, we extend this work by examining changes in racial/ethnic school segregation across a typology of suburban municipalities in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan area between 2007 and 2018. Our findings are mixed- contingent on the measure of segregation employed. We find that Black-white and Hispanic-white segregation in mature suburbs is rising, but is at least in part driven by shifting demographics. The results suggest intra-suburban variation in segregation, highlighting the connection between race and neighborhood change.
‘Insight unlocked’: Applying a collective intelligence approach to engage employers in informing local skills improvement planning
Authors: Rae David , Cartwright Edward , Gongora Mario , Hobson Chris , Shah Harsh
Published: July 2023

This paper demonstrates how the innovative application of a Collective Intelligence approach enhanced Local Skills Improvement Planning information for employers, education and skills training organisations and regional economic policy organisations. This took place within a Knowledge Transfer Partnership between a Chamber of Commerce and a University. This aimed to develop and deploy regional business intelligence for enhanced policy and decision-making in enterprise and economic development. The project converged knowledge from several research centres including economics, entrepreneurship and innovation, data science, and Artificial Intelligence. The paper presents a project case study which provides two contributions to applied knowledge. Firstly, it demonstrates how a Collective Intelligence (CI) approach can be applied to achieve rapid results in resolving the real-world problem of local skills information availability. Useful real-time data was gathered from employers in three sectors on skills requirements, supply and training. This was analysed using Artificial Intelligence tools, then shared publicly via an automated Internet portal, providing a scalable model for wider use. Secondly, it explores and evaluates how the knowledge exchange (KE) process can function effectively and quickly in applying CI-based innovation in practical ways which create new value, within a Knowledge Transfer Partnership between a University and Chamber of Commerce.environment.
Ukrainian libraries in the time of war: Losses and challenges
Authors: Chorna Tetiana
Published: July 2023

The Russian-Ukrainian War has had a significant impact on Ukrainian libraries, particularly in the Eastern regions of Ukraine that have been directly affected by the conflict. The Russian aggression has caused significant damage to library infrastructure, collections, and services, and has disrupted the overall functioning of the library system in Ukraine. In this paper, we provide an overview of the situation with the Ukrainian libraries during the Russian-Ukrainian War, as well as a review of the risks Ukrainian librarians face on a daily basis.
Embodied and Embedded Learning: Child, Caregiver, and Context
Authors: Tamis-LeMonda Catherine S. , Masek Lillian R.
Published: July 2023

The pace of infant learning is inspiring. Babies learn new skills while interacting with the people, objects, and spaces in their everyday environments. Grounded in a developmental-systems approach, we highlight the embodied and embedded nature of infant learning. Learning is embodied in that the exuberant infant serendipitously creates an ideal curriculum for learning through immense amounts of varied, time-distributed practice across behavioral domains. Learning is embedded in that infants’ behaviors elicit timely responses from caregivers that are situated in richly informative and structured environments. Feedback loops generated by the active infant, the salience of caregiver responses, and the regularity of environmental contexts propel learning. The study of natural behaviors in natural environments spotlights the roles of infant, caregiver, and context in everyday learning.
Digital Healthcare Innovation and Development in Saudi Arabia During and Beyond COVID-19
Authors: Abdulaziz Abdulaziz Ahmed , Algosaibi Abdulelah Marwan , Alquhaibi Abdullah Saad , Alali Fatimah Nuri , Almutawaa Mohammed Sami , Roomi Muhammad Azam , Bhatti Yasser Ahmad
Published: July 2023

COVID-19 forced many nations, including the largest country in the Arabian Gulf region, Saudi Arabia, to fast-track the adoption of new technologies and work practices to cope with the pandemic. We find the Saudi Ministry of Health (SMoH), in less than a year, introduced several innovations to transform healthcare planning, management and delivery. We reflect on these changes in the Saudi Arabian context and suggest what needs to be done next to retain the developmental momentum generated in the innovation system beyond the pandemic for sustainable and positive impact on the healthcare system. To do so, the Ministry should regularly assess the appetite for change, prioritise problems and areas of intervention, collect evidence of need and impact, build confidence by educating the public and healthcare professionals about the importance of adapting to new ways and methods of healthcare delivery, collaborate with the private sector to efficiently sustain these advancements and gain the public’s trust through stakeholder participation.
Book review: N. Ravichandran and S. Venkataramanaiah. 2023. Managing Social Organizations: Lessons from World’s Largest Pilgrimage Center
Authors: Kumar Sushil
Published: July 2023

N. Ravichandran and S. Venkataramanaiah. 2023. Managing Social Organizations: Lessons from World’s Largest Pilgrimage Center. Wiley, xxiii + 255p, ISBN: 9789354643996
Unifying concert research and science outreach
Authors: Bürgel Michel , Mencke Iris , Benjamin Aravindan , Dechert Maximilian , Derks Deborah , Gerdes Karsten , Hake Robin , Jacobsen Simon , Siedenburg Kai
Published: July 2023

Music has the ability to captivate and engage people from all walks of life and in a wide range of situations. Music psychologists seek to understand the various psychological processes that are involved in music listening and making, including perception, cognition, motor skills, and emotion. In recent years, music psychology researchers have begun to collect data in real-life settings, such as concerts of live music. This approach offers a unique opportunity to connect with a wide variety of participants and at the same time gain insights that may not be available in laboratory settings. In this Letter to the Editor, we report on the novel format of an outreach activity called the Golden Ear Challenge that introduces a gamified component and thus unifies concert research and science communication. First organized at the University of Oldenburg in October 2022, the activity uses this format to demonstrate the approaches and methods of music psychology in an accessible and engaging way. By providing accessible and informative content, it aims to inspire people from various backgrounds to learn more about science and, in particular, the fascinating field of music psychology.
The Role of First Tarsometatarsal Joint Morphology and Instability in the Etiology of Hallux Valgus: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Ji Linfeng , Ding Shenglong , Zhang Mingzhu , Colon Reyes Katherine , Zhu Mingjie , Sun Chengyi
Published: July 2023

Background:

The morphology of foot joints is widely accepted as a significant factor in the development of various foot disorders. Nevertheless, the role of the first tarsometatarsal joint (TMT1) morphology in hallux valgus (HV) remains unclear, and its impact on TMT1 instability has not been fully explored. This study aimed to investigate the TMT1 morphology and its potential correlation with HV and TMT1 instability.

Methods:

Weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) scans of 82 consecutive feet with HV and 79 controls were reviewed in this case-control study. Three-dimensional (3D) models of TMT1 were constructed using Mimics software and WBCT scans. The height of the TMT1 facet (FH) and the superior, middle, and inferior facet width (SFW, MFW, and IFW) were measured on anteroposterior view of the first metatarsal base. On the lateral view, the inferior lateral facet height and angle (ILFH and ILFA) were measured. TMT1 instability was evaluated using the TMT1 angle.

Results:

Compared with the control group, the HV group had a significantly wider MFW (9.9 mm in HV, 8.7 mm in control), lower ILFH (1.7 mm in HV, 2.5 mm in control), smaller ILFA (16.3 degrees in HV, 24.5 degrees in control), and larger TMT1 angle (1.9 degrees in HV, 0.9 degrees in control) (all P < .05). No significant differences were found between the 2 groups in FH, SFW, and IFW (all P > .05). The study identified 4 types of TMT1 morphology: continuous-flat, separated-flat, continuous-protruded, and separated-protruded. The continuous-flat type possessed significantly larger HVA, IMA, and TMT1 angles compared with other types (all P < .001).

Conclusion:

This study indicates a potential association between TMT1 morphology and the severity of HV and identifies 4 TMT1 types. Notably, the continuous-flat type is found to be associated with more severe HV and TMT1 instability.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Psychiatric Deprescribing: A Narrative Review
Authors: Harding Shari L. , Ellis Kerri A. , Boisseau John , Petreca Victor
Published: July 2023

OBJECTIVE:

Psychiatric deprescribing is an intervention where psychiatric medications are reduced or discontinued with the goal to improve health and reduce unnecessary risks. The purpose of this study was to synthesize the literature related to psychiatric deprescribing to discuss practice and research implications.

METHODS:

A structured search of the literature was conducted from May to September 2022, yielding 29 articles meeting inclusion criteria. Articles were reviewed and synthesized.

RESULTS:

Psychiatric deprescribing is a complex process with many potential facilitators and barriers. The extant literature provides insight into current gaps in knowledge and implications for clinical practice and research.

CONCLUSIONS:

In current clinical practice, psychiatric deprescribing is a priority but there are significant barriers. Several areas of future research could be pursued to better support evidence-based practice in this area.
Mediation of cognitive interference on depression during the Russo-Ukrainian war in three national samples
Authors: Begic Petra , Greenglass Esther , Hintsa Taina , Karkkola Petri , Buchwald Petra
Published: July 2023

Media coverage of large-scale violence can result in interfering thoughts and depression. This research investigates the relationship between interfering thoughts and depression when watching the Russo-Ukrainian war. In the theoretical model, the more the war is watched, the more it is related to interfering thoughts, which are related to depression. With the ongoing pandemic, depression, when watching the war, was related to coronavirus threat. Data was collected online from April to June, 2022, with university students in Germany, Finland, and Canada ( N = 865). Path analysis results in each sample showed that the model fit the data with sample-specific modification indices. There was full mediation of watching the war by interference on depression, indicating that it is not watching the war, per se, but rather its relationship to cognitive interference, that is associated with depression. Denial and coronavirus threat were positively related to depression. Implications for research and student support are considered.
The tension between connective action and platformisation: Disconnected action in the GameStop short squeeze
Authors: Vaughan Michael , Gruber Johannes B , Langer Ana Ines
Published: July 2023

Although the Reddit-led short squeeze of GameStop shares in 2021 drew comparisons with Occupy Wall Street, this article focuses on one key area of difference: where Occupy exemplified the theoretical model of connective action through its discursive and technological openness, mobilisation around the short squeeze followed a different pattern characterised by discursive and technological disconnections, which we argue partly reflects the intervening decade of platformisation. Our case shows how platforms can establish boundaries as well as brokerage points in contentious politics, with particular regard to repertoires of action, collective identities and discourses. We show how in our case, these boundaries impeded discursive and technological connections, instead organising users into relatively disconnected zones and ultimately reducing their power and impact over broader discursive systems. Our argument is explored using three data sets from Reddit, Twitter and legacy news media outlets, using a combination of non-negative matrix factorisation (NMF) topic modelling and manual content analysis.
Obesity in Late-Life as a Protective Factor Against Dementia and Dementia-Related Mortality
Authors: Natale Ginny , Zhang Yun , Hanes Douglas William , Clouston Sean AP
Published: July 2023

Objective

We estimated the conversion from cognitively normal to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to probable dementia and death for underweight, normal, overweight, and obese older adults, where the timing of examinations is associated with the severity of dementia.

Methods

We analyzed six waves of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). Body mass (BMI) was computed from height and weight. Multi-state survival models (MSMs) examined misclassification probability, time-to-event ratios, and cognitive decline.

Results

Participants (n = 6078) were 77 years old, 62% had overweight and/or obese BMI. After adjusting for the effects of cardiometabolic factors, age, sex, and race, obesity was protective against developing dementia (aHR=.44; 95%CI [.29-.67]) and dementia-related mortality (aHR=.63; 95%CI [.42-.95]).

Discussion

We found a negative relationship between obesity and dementia and dementia-related mortality, a finding that has been underreported in the literature. The continuing obesity epidemic might complicate the diagnosis and treatment of dementia.
Effect of Occupation-Based Intervention Using the ADOC-H Combined With Physical Function-Based Intervention on Patients With Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Kukizaki Wataru , Ohno Kanta , Maruta Michio , Shimokihara Suguru , Iida Hiroyuki , Tabira Takayuki
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Occupation-based intervention (OBI) involves daily and meaningful activities for evaluation and intervention. Recently, the “aid for decision-making in occupation choice for hand” (ADOC-H) was developed to facilitate OBI in patients with hand injuries. We aimed to examine the efficacy of OBI using the ADOC-H combined with physical function-based interventions (PBI) for patients with distal radius fractures (DRF).

Material and methods

Patients with DRF were retrospectively allocated to two groups, ADOC-H group ( n = 14) and PBI group ( n = 14), and compared.

Results

Improvements in the Pain Catastrophizing Scale magnification and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire scores were significantly higher in the ADOC-H group than in the PBI group ( p < .05). The groups showed no differences in measure of physical function, such as range of motion and grip strength.

Conclusion

OBI using the ADOC-H combined with PBI is clinically useful for patients with DRF as it promotes use of the injured hand for daily activities in a step-by-step approach, improving psychological difficulties in using the hand.
An adaptive kernel dictionary learning method based on grey wolf optimizer for bearing intelligent fault diagnosis
Authors: Yang Tao , Zhang Xin , Wang Jiaxu , Jin Yulin , Gong Zhiyuan , Wang Lei
Published: July 2023

In this study, an adaptive kernel dictionary learning method for intelligent fault diagnosis of bearings is proposed. Kernel KSVD (KKSVD) is an excellent dictionary learning method with the capacity to handle nonlinear signals. However, the choice of kernel parameters and sparse level is a key issue, since these parameters respectively determine the form of the high-dimensional kernel space and the capability of KKSVD to learn appropriate atomic information for representing the samples. As a result, it is difficult to achieve the maximum performance of KKSVD by pre-specifying the values of the parameters. To address this issue, an advanced meta-heuristic algorithm – that is, the grey wolf optimizer (GWO) is introduced into the KKSVD. Specifically, an objective function is first designed, in which the parameters to be optimized are involved in the learning process of KKSVD for the bearing train set and then applied to the testing of the bearing validation set to get the classification results. The classification accuracy is fed back to the GWO algorithm which will update the parameters iteratively and output the optimal parameters. Two case studies respectively corresponding to two common situations in bearing fault diagnosis – that is, strong noisy samples and unbalanced samples, are carried out. The analysis results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for adaptively obtaining the optimal parameters and improving the performance of KKSVD. Furthermore, the proposed method outperforms several state-of-art dictionary methods in terms of diagnosis accuracy and robustness.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis therapy development: a clinical pharmacology perspective
Authors: Mai Tu H. , Han Lyrialle W. , Hsu Joy C. , Kamath Nikhil , Pan Lin
Published: July 2023

Drug development for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) has been challenging due to poorly understood disease etiology, unpredictable disease progression, highly heterogeneous patient populations, and a lack of robust pharmacodynamic biomarkers. Moreover, because lung biopsy is invasive and dangerous, making the extent of fibrosis as a direct longitudinal measurement of IPF disease progression unfeasible, most clinical trials studying IPF can only assess progression of fibrosis indirectly through surrogate measures. This review discusses current state-of-art practices, identifies knowledge gaps, and brainstorms development opportunities for preclinical to clinical translation, clinical populations, pharmacodynamic endpoints, and dose optimization strategies. This article highlights clinical pharmacology perspectives in leveraging real-world data as well as modeling and simulation, special population considerations, and patient-centric approaches for designing future studies.
Effects of international norms: A typology
Authors: Rosert Elvira
Published: July 2023

The constructivist research programme on international norms has demonstrated convincingly that, how, and why norms matter. Norms have been shown to constitute the identity of actors, to guide their behaviour into desired directions, and, altogether, to generate the normative basis of the international system. In the course of this intensive debate, its main concepts, such as the question of what constitutes a norm or different norm types, became fuzzy. Also, while the focus on the intended effects of norms certainly encompasses an essential part of the phenomenon, their unintended effects have been largely neglected. Motivated by these shortcomings, the article presents a new systematisation of effects of norms. The typology developed here discerns two types of intended effects, namely prohibitive and obligative effects, as well as two corresponding types of unintended effects, namely permissive and omissive effects.
Influence of prestressing force on performance of concrete plates under impact loading
Authors: Kumar Vimal , Iqbal MA , Mittal AK
Published: July 2023

An experimental and numerical study has been performed to explore the performance of one-way pretensioned concrete plates against impact loading. The impact resistance, experimental results and damage within the pretensioned concrete have been compared with the non-pretensioned concrete. The plate specimens of concrete grades M40 and M60 have been pretensioned to prestress level 10 and 20% of the compressive strength of the concrete. While, all the tendons employed in the non-pretensioned concrete were kept unstressed. The plates were struck at the mid-span by a steel mass (242.85 kg) dropped from 0.5 to 1.0 m heights. The numerical simulations have been executed using explicit finite element code considering the Holmquist–Johnson–Cook (HJC) and the metal plasticity model for concrete and steel, correspondingly. The performance of the plates is governed by the grade of concrete, impact energy and level of the prestress within the concrete. The induced prestress within the concrete enhanced the stiffness and, consequently, the impact resistance of the pretensioned concrete plates. The pretensioned concrete hence witnessed increased impact force and reduced deflection by 18.1% and 11.0%, correspondingly, compared to the non-pretensioned concrete. The splitting and punching crack within the plates became pronounced once the drop height increased from 0.5 m to 1.0 m. The simulations have estimated the peak impact force and reaction within 19.7% and 15.5% deviation, respectively. The displacement and energy absorption have been calculated using an analytical methodology closely correlated with the actual results within 18% and 14% deviation, respectively. Further, the simulations performed on two-way pretensioned concrete have shown improved performance of the plates witnessing no splitting crack and uniform crack distribution compared to one-way pretensioned concrete.
A Brief Measure of Fidelity for Mindfulness Programs: Development and Evaluation of the Concise Fidelity for Mindfulness-Based Interventions Tool
Authors: Greco Carol M. , Dore Graham A. , Weinberg Janice M. , Roth Isabel , Thomas Holly N. , Lawrence Suzanne , Rodriguez Ruth , McGillis Megan , Morone Natalia E.
Published: July 2023

Background

Mindfulness research and clinical programs are widespread, and it is important that mindfulness-based interventions are delivered with fidelity, or as intended, across settings. The MBI:TAC is a comprehensive system for assessing teacher competence, yet it can be complex to implement. A standardized, simple fidelity/engagement tool to address treatment delivery is needed.

Objective

We describe the development, evaluation, and outcomes of a brief, practical tool for assessing fidelity and engagement in online mindfulness-based programs. The tool contains questions about session elements such as meditation guidance and group discussion, and questions about participant engagement and technology-based barriers to engagement.

Methods

The fidelity rating tool was developed and tested in OPTIMUM, Optimizing Pain Treatment in Medical settings Using Mindfulness. The OPTIMUM study is a 3-site pragmatic randomized trial of group medical visits and adapted mindfulness-based stress reduction for primary care patients with chronic low back pain, delivered online. Two trained study personnel independently rated 26 recorded OPTIMUM sessions to determine inter-rater reliability of the Concise Fidelity for Mindfulness-Based Interventions (CoFi-MBI) tool. Trained raters also completed the CoFi-MBI for 105 sessions. Raters provided qualitative data via optional open text fields within the tool.

Results

Inter-rater agreement was 77-100% for presence of key session components, and 69-88% for Likert ratings of participant engagement and challenges related to technology, with discrepancies only occurring within 2 categories: ‘very much’ and ‘quite a bit’. Key session components occurred as intended in 94-100% of the 105 sessions, and participant engagement was rated as ‘very much’ or ‘quite a bit’ in 95% of the sessions. Qualitative analysis of rater comments revealed themes related to engagement challenges and technology failures.

Conclusion

The CoFi-MBI provides a practical way to assess basic adherence to online delivery of mindfulness session elements, participant engagement, and extent of technology obstacles. Optional text can guide strategies to improve engagement and reduce technology barriers.
Development of a rapid and specific MALDI-TOF mass spectrometric assay for SARS-CoV-2 detection
Authors: Kollhoff Lydia , Kipping Marc , Rauh Manfred , Ceglarek Uta , Barka Günes , Barka Frederik , Sinz Andrea
Published: July 2023

We have developed a rapid and highly specific assay for detecting and monitoring SARS-CoV-2 infections by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). As MALDI-TOF mass spectrometers are available in a clinical setting, our assay has the potential to serve as alternative to the commonly used reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Sample preparation prior to MALDI-TOF-MS involves the tryptic digestion of SARS-CoV-2 proteins, followed by an enrichment of virus-specific peptides from SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein via magnetic antibody beads. Our MALDI-TOF-MS method allows the detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein in sample collection medium as low as 8 amol/µl. MALDI-TOF mass spectra are obtained in just a few seconds, which makes our MS-based assay suitable for a high-throughput screening of SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare facilities in addition to PCR. Due to the specific detection of virus peptides, different SARS-CoV-2 variants are readily distinguished from each other. Specifically, we show that our MALDI-TOF-MS assay discriminates SARS-CoV-2 strain B.1.617.2 “delta variant” from all other variants in patients’ samples, making our method highly valuable to monitor the emergence of new virus variants.

Graphical Abstract
A preliminary analysis of the effectiveness of online practical laboratory delivery using 3D models for higher education courses in biological anthropology
Authors: Ward Stacey M. , Balolia Katharine L. , Wilson Laura A. B.
Published: July 2023

Practical-based laboratory instruction represents a substantial component of education in biological anthropology, a multidisciplinary field concerned with investigating human evolution, biology, and behaviour from an evolutionary perspective. The efficacy of online practical laboratory classes using 3D models as part of the mode of delivery, as compared to traditional face-to-face learning, is poorly understood in the field of biological anthropology despite an increased uptake of online learning and the potential benefits of embracing this delivery modality. We present the preliminary findings of an ongoing study exploring the effectiveness of online practical training using 3D resources in biological anthropology. Through a participant survey of undergraduate and postgraduate osteology and palaeoanthropology students (n = 27) from an Australian university, we assess (1) whether differences in teaching modality impact student comprehension of practical concepts and (2) whether student perceptions of learning vary between in-person and online teaching modalities. Our results show that there are no significant differences in test of knowledge scores between online and in-person in either biological anthropology sub-discipline. However, in-person students experienced an increased feeling of learning relative to the online students in our combined discipline and osteology-only cohorts. Feeling of learning scores were statistically significantly lower among the online osteology cohort relative to palaeoanthropology students. Our preliminary results suggest that online labs using 3D models may be an effective means of teaching practical skills in biological anthropology, although student perceptions of learning may be negatively impacted. Feelings of learning are also variable across sub-disciplines, suggesting a need for more nuanced investigations into the efficacy of online learning. Larger sample sizes are required to confirm these findings.
Deep ensemble approach for pathogen classification in large-scale images using patch-based training and hyper-parameter optimization
Authors: Ahmad Fareed , Khan Muhammad Usman Ghani , Tahir Ahsen , Masud Farhan
Published: July 2023

Pathogenic bacteria present a major threat to human health, causing various infections and illnesses, and in some cases, even death. The accurate identification of these bacteria is crucial, but it can be challenging due to the similarities between different species and genera. This is where automated classification using convolutional neural network (CNN) models can help, as it can provide more accurate, authentic, and standardized results.In this study, we aimed to create a larger and balanced dataset by image patching and applied different variations of CNN models, including training from scratch, fine-tuning, and weight adjustment, and data augmentation through random rotation, reflection, and translation. The results showed that the best results were achieved through augmentation and fine-tuning of deep models. We also modified existing architectures, such as InceptionV3 and MobileNetV2, to better capture complex features. The robustness of the proposed ensemble model was evaluated using two data splits (7:2:1 and 6:2:2) to see how performance changed as the training data was increased from 10 to 20%. In both cases, the model exhibited exceptional performance. For the 7:2:1 split, the model achieved an accuracy of 99.91%, F-Score of 98.95%, precision of 98.98%, recall of 98.96%, and MCC of 98.92%. For the 6:2:2 split, the model yielded an accuracy of 99.94%, F-Score of 99.28%, precision of 99.31%, recall of 98.96%, and MCC of 99.26%. This demonstrates that automatic classification using the ensemble model can be a valuable tool for diagnostic staff and microbiologists in accurately identifying pathogenic bacteria, which in turn can help control epidemics and minimize their social and economic impact.
Factors contributing to mitogenome size variation and a recurrent intracellular DNA transfer in Melastoma
Authors: Zhou Shuaixi , Zhi Xueke , Yu Runxian , Liu Ying , Zhou Renchao
Published: July 2023

Background

Mitogenome sizes of seed plants vary substantially even among closely related species, which are often related to horizontal or intracellular DNA transfer (HDT or IDT) events. However, the mechanisms of this size variation have not been well characterized.

Results

Here we assembled and characterized the mitogenomes of three species ofMelastoma, a tropical shrub genus experiencing rapid speciation. The mitogenomes ofM. candidum(Mc),M. sanguineum(Ms) andM. dodecandrum(Md) were assembled to a circular mapping chromosome of 391,595 bp, 395,542 bp and 412,026 bp, respectively. While the mitogenomes of Mc and Ms showed good collinearity except for a large inversion of ~ 150 kb, there were many rearrangements in the mitogenomes between Md and either Mc or Ms. Most non-alignable sequences (> 80%) between Mc and Ms are from gain or loss of mitochondrial sequences. Whereas, between Md and either Mc or Ms, non-alignable sequences in Md are mainly chloroplast derived sequences (> 30%) and from putative horizontal DNA transfers (> 30%), and those in both Mc and Ms are from gain or loss of mitochondrial sequences (> 80%). We also identified a recurrent IDT event in another congeneric species,M. penicillatum, which has not been fixed as it is only found in one of the three examined populations.

Conclusions

By characterizing mitochondrial genome sequences ofMelastoma, our study not only helps understand mitogenome size evolution in closely related species, but also cautions different evolutionary histories of mitochondrial regions due to potential recurrent IDT events in some populations or species.