bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pope Francis’s Integral Ecology Paradigm: An Exploration of Its Theological Foundations and Ethical Implications
Authors: Deane-Drummond Celia
Published: March 2023

Integral ecology has arguably received more attention from theologians, ethicists and others compared with other ideas arising out of Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’. In this article I explore what are reasonable alternative ways of understanding what Pope Francis intended in using the language of integral ecology, and critically explore its theological foundations and point to some implications for practice. I trace its development to a theological response in dialectical relationship with his understanding of an alternative technological paradigm. Unlike the latter, integral ecology is grounded in traditional Catholic concepts of creation and resonates with natural law understood to be broadly inclusive rather than narrowly proscriptive. While to a degree plagiarizing on earlier concepts of integral human development, it has its own distinctive message to carry. Moreover, I suggest that without adequate reference to theological foundations integral ecology morphs into much more general notions of multi-disciplinarity and trans-disciplinarity, which, while valuable in themselves, fail to get to the heart of Pope Francis’s intended mission.
‘Incarnational Theology’ Understandings and the Scriptural Witnesses to St Joseph in the Human Maturation of Jesus of Nazareth
Authors: McGavin P. A.
Published: March 2023

The author here reflects on textual witnesses of the role of Joseph of Nazareth in the human development of Jesus of Nazareth to build a culturally embodied theology that is intended to offer for us and for others some suggestive scriptural perspectives on the complex topic and ‘task’ of growth toward human maturity in our contemporary contexts.
Power and Truth in Science-Related Populism: Rethinking the Role of Knowledge and Expertise in Climate Politics
Authors: Meyer John M
Published: March 2023

Populism is often characterized as a rejection of scientific expertise and a key obstacle to societies’ ability to address the climate crisis today. I challenge this account, arguing for a more inclusive conception of populism and a more critical account of expertise. Consistent with this, I delineate a range of responses to the challenges of climate politics in populist times. In doing so, I have two primary aims: first, to highlight limitations of “anti-populist” responses among proponents of climate change action, and, second, to lean into populist criticisms of elite expertise, by delineating how some challenges to dominant forms of science and elite power are themselves expert knowledge and integral to promising movements that address climate change. This can allow expertise to be distinguished from elitism and to be recognized in caring relations to the subjects of knowledge. Here, expertise is not manifest as separation from the common world, but as immersion in it.
Understanding the Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Individuals With Chronic Illness
Authors: Bhatt Krish J. , Schulder Talia , Rudenstine Sasha , McNeal Kat , Ettman Catherine K. , Galea Sandro
Published: March 2023

People with chronic illnesses are vulnerable to stress and psychopathology during population-level disasters, as a subset of individuals with disabilities. We aimed to examine the relationships between chronic illness, cumulative and specific stressors, and probable depression, probable anxiety, and post-traumatic stress in an under-resourced urban population in New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using cross-sectional survey data collected in April 2020, we utilized bivariate chi-square analyses and multivariable logistic regression models to estimate differences in and adjusted odds of stressor endorsement and diagnostic prevalence between people with and without chronic illness. We also assessed effect modification of the relationship between stressor exposure and psychopathology by chronic illness status. Compared to people without chronic illness, those who reported having a chronic illness experienced increased odds of probable depression, probable anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. They were also more likely to report high cumulative COVID-19-related stress exposure, death of someone close to them due to coronavirus or COVID-19, family problems, feeling alone, supply shortages, and financial problems. Chronic illness was found to be an effect modifier in the relationship between the death of someone close due to coronavirus or COVID-19 and probable depression and between household job loss and probable anxiety.
Exploring the relationship between transphobia and homophobia and other demographic factors among practicing and future primary school teachers
Authors: Amigo-Ventureira Ana M , Durán Montserrat , DePalma Renée
Published: March 2023

Based on an existing measure of homophobia, we developed an instrument to measure both transphobia and homophobia, as well as their relationship with other demographic variables that included attributed sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, and political affinity. Research was designed to establish the relationship between homophobia and transphobia, by comparing the results of a validated Homophobia Test with a Transphobia Test that has been designed by adapting the same items; and to explore the relationship between homophobia/transphobia and other socio-demographic variables, specifically including gender, geographic origin, sexual orientation, political ideology, and religious conviction). Our research with 1,133 trainee and 182 practicing teachers demonstrated the reliability of our instrument, suggesting a correspondence between the two types of prejudice. Our results also found that these two prejudices followed similar trends with respect to other variables: respondents who identified as men showed higher levels of both homophobia and transphobia, as did those who professed religious conviction and were affiliated with the right wing of the political spectrum. We found that people who identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual were less homophobic and transphobic that those who identified as heterosexual. Based on these data, we hypothesize that the two types of prejudice explored here derive from a common factor, the broader social construct of cisgenderism, so that any deviation from the heterosexual matrix, whether in terms of gender identity, gender presentation, or sexual orientation, results in social stigma. The professionals included in our sample are entrusted with well-being of all children, and are responsible for teaching about human diversity as part of the curriculum. Our findings will help us understand how teachers might respond to children who transgress, or are perceived to transgress, cisgendered norms, and to design more effective teacher training concerning sex and gender diversity.
The rise of single-family rentals and the relationship to opportunity neighbourhoods for low-income families with children
Authors: Khaleel Sahar , Hanlon Bernadette
Published: March 2023

Single-family homes make up a significant portion of the rental housing market in the United States. Single-family rentals grew significantly in recent years, especially with the emergence of large-scale investors in the single-family rental market. We investigate if the rise of single-family rentals provides more housing choice for renter families with children, and if a greater number of single-family rentals provides low-income families with children with access to neighbourhoods with high- or moderate-opportunity education. We utilise the Child Opportunity Index to identify low-, moderate- and high-educational opportunity neighbourhoods and, using both binomial and multinomial logistic regression, examine the relationship between the rise in single-family rentals and neighbourhood opportunity access. We find growth in single-family rentals provides more rental alternatives for families with children but does not provide families with children in poverty access to high- or moderate-opportunity neighbourhoods in education. Growth in single-family rentals does provide access to high opportunity for near-poverty families with children (150–185% of poverty), but only when there are few of these kinds of families and when there are large increases in single-family rentals. Our findings suggest that rental burden prevents families with children in poverty from accessing high- and moderate-opportunity neighbourhoods, and the Housing Choice Vouchers programme does not help.
The ‘kampung formula’: Infrastructural adventurism and public art in Semarang, Indonesia
Authors: Ley Lukas
Published: March 2023

Describing the artistic and curatorial work of the Indonesian art collective Hysteria over the last 15 years, this paper considers public art as a practice of devising relations with various urban sites and actors. I focus on Hysteria’s core strategy of organising art festivals and exhibitions in kampungs– working-class urban neighbourhoods – with the aim of creating novel spaces for artistic expression, showing that the kampung serves both as inspiration for artistic experimentation and improvised public space in the absence of proper art infrastructure. Further, kampung space allows economically precarious artists to engage the city, that is, explore its social make-up and uncover economic opportunities. A long-term perspective on Hysteria’s work reveals that activities provide members as well as involved artists with valuable urban knowledge and connections. Turning the kampung into a subject of public art and infrastructure of encounter through what I call the ‘ kampung formula’, Hysteria managed to establish itself as a representative of the poor and key interlocutor of urban development agencies, becoming eligible for a number of pro-poor project grants. Describing the relational network of art, kampung and the wider city, I therefore propose to see public art as a kind of ‘infrastructural adventurism’ that provides glimpses into various aspects of both formal and informal economies in the Indonesian city and extracts knowledge and value from marginal urban places.
Plug-in urbanism: City building and the parodic guise of new infrastructure in Africa
Authors: Guma Prince K , Akallah Jethron Ayumbah , Odeo Jack Ong’iro
Published: March 2023

Across Africa, cities have become fodder for grand-scale foreign investments and redevelopment projects signifying a distinct phenomenon synonymous with a new kind of urbanism. This paper offers a critical commentary on the proliferation of new infrastructure plans tailored as policy, technological fixes and solutions to urbanisation challenges, both real and perceived. We stir a conversation around the notion of ‘plug-in urbanism’: first, as an entry point for the study of a model of city building that is exceedingly determined by reflex prioritisation of assumedly universal and transferable corporate-driven policy agendas; secondly, as a critique of unidirectional, homogenising and determinist technological ideas and infrastructures; and thirdly, as a recourse to inclusive and holistic planning. We present the case of the Nairobi Expressway, a recently launched two- to four-lane 27 km viaduct, and the largest in Africa, as an example of a ‘plug-in’ infrastructure project: i.e. pre-packaged state-of-the-art development installation that comes complete and tailored as a magic bullet and obvious solution to identified mobility and transport challenges in Nairobi city. We demonstrate how in its parodic guise, the expressway highlights a project that is designed and financed by foreign authorities and sustained in line with foreign standard ideologies of what a world-class city should look like, yet in reality only leads to piecemeal and incomplete growth and development. Drawing from a standpoint of multiple urbanisms, we argue for more inclusive urban futures and visions that are responsive to diverse, popular and heterogeneous articulations of cities.
Evaluation of Health Literacy and Associated Factors Among Adults Living in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alahmadi Yaser M
Published: March 2023

In this westernized culture, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become a major health concern internationally. Health literacy is an emerging concept and requires effective measures and reform to improve the health status and health of individuals at both national and international levels, and has become one of the important determinants of individual health and healthcare service. This study aimed to assess health literacy among adults in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among a randomly selected population using a structured validated questionnaire over 4 months in 2021. The questionnaires designed for the study included 26 items divided into 5 domains assessed on a five-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26 (IBM Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) and IBM SPSS 26 (IBM Inc.). The mean score for reading, access to information, understanding, appraisal, and decision-making was 12.01 ± 4.37, 20.16 ± 7.17, 24.84 ± 8.37, 11.85 ± 4.90, and 36.94 ± 10.41 respectively. The mean scores of reading and understanding domains were found to have significant differences concerning gender ( P < .05). Additionally, participants’ age was significantly associated with the mean score of reading and decision-making ( P < .006 and P < .049). The findings reported a prevalence of inadequate HL in the population of Saudi Arabia was 54.4%, and the determinants associated with the scores of HL were age, gender, and education.
A Cross-Sectional Study on the Relationship Between Street-Level Bureaucrats’ Role Identity and Their Discretionary Decision-Making Practice toward Citizen-Clients
Authors: Jensen Didde Cramer , Pedersen Michael Mulbjerg
Published: March 2023

This study tests the hypothesis that the role identity of street-level bureaucrats is related to variation in their discretionary decisions in relation to the behavior of citizen-clients. The study draws on crosssectional survey data on 465 officers from prisons in Denmark. Results from the study show a negative correlation between prison officers role identity as formalistic (state-agent) and the likelihood of differentiating in response to citizen-clients’ behavior. Correspondingly, the results shows a positive relationship between informal rule identification (citizen-agent) and differential responses against citizen-client behavior. The findings indicate a causal relationship between street-level bureaucrats’ role identity and their discretionary decisions.
Bibliometric Analysis of Academic Papers Citing Dunleavy et al.’s (2006) “New Public Management Is Dead—Long Live Digital-Era Governance”: Identifying Research Clusters and Future Research Agendas
Authors: Cho Beomgeun
Published: March 2023

I trace the bibliometric evolution of “New Public Management Is Dead” by Dunleavy et al. to investigate how the seminal paper influenced the administrative reform debate. They suggested Digital-Era Governance as the main post-NPM idea. My bibliometric analysis discovers public value, administrative reform trajectories, and digital government as influential themes. Unlike Dunleavy et al., the literature found the managerial reform wave is not linear, reform ideas are supplementary, and NPM remains a major toolkit. Future research should focus on reintegration and need-based holism, linking digital government to administrative reform, and the negative impact of digital government on democracy.
Attenuating the relationship between job insecurity and job satisfaction: An examination of the role of organizational learning climate in three countries
Authors: Probst Tahira M , Tomas Jasmina , Roll Lara , Maslić Seršić Darja , Jiang Lixin , Jenkins Melissa R
Published: March 2023

Research indicates job insecurity (JI) is related to lower job satisfaction, partially mediated by psychological contract breach (PCB; a perceived breaking of the implicit exchange relationship between employer and employee). The authors investigated the extent to which providing a positive organizational learning climate (OLC) might attenuate the relationships between (a) qualitative JI and PCB and (b) PCB and job satisfaction. Using cross-sectional survey data from higher education industry employees within the US ( N = 372), South Africa ( N = 1096), and Croatia ( N = 719), the study found consistent results across all three settings. Qualitative JI was negatively associated with job satisfaction both directly and indirectly via PCB. Although a positive OLC did not attenuate the relationship between JI and PCB, it did buffer the relationship between PCB and job satisfaction. The findings are discussed in light of Conservation of Resources theory and the need to identify practical organizational interventions to alleviate the adverse effects of qualitative JI.
Laryngeal Primary Myoepithelial Carcinoma: Case Report and a Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Zhou Lanzhu , Zhou En-Hui
Published: March 2023

Myoepithelial carcinoma of the head and neck is a rare malignant tumor that usually arises from the salivary glands but rarely from the larynx. Here, we describe 11 cases (one treated by us and 10 previously published) of laryngeal myoepithelial carcinoma. Our patient was a 60-year-old male who initially presented with hoarseness and throat pain. The patient had suffered from continuing hoarseness and throat pain for one month before he consulted an otorhinolaryngologist. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed a polypoid tumor involving the right vocal cords. Biopsy was performed, and the disease was pathologically diagnosed as myoepithelial carcinoma of the larynx by hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemical staining. The total follow-up period was 15 months. Repeated laryngoscopies or CT scans revealed no recurrence or residual lesion during the post-surgical course.
Building Surgical Expertise Through Deliberate Practice
Authors: Wollstein Yael , Jabbour Noel
Published: March 2023

Objective

To characterize the role of deliberate practice in the changing landscape of surgical training.

Methods

A review examining various applications of deliberate practice was conducted, with a focus on the surgical training space and utility of this methodology in otolaryngology residency.

Results

With many programs turning to simulation-based practice and other learning modalities based outside the operating room, deliberate practice is emerging as a promising method for more efficient and efficacious learning.

Conclusion

Identifying and addressing weak areas, maintaining motivation to continue to grow and reach new milestones, and continually responding to external feedback from instructors can lead to improvement in a variety of skills essential for success in surgical fields. Further implementation of deliberate practice methodology could improve surgical training at all levels.
The Impact of Item Model Parameter Variations on Person Parameter Estimation in Computerized Adaptive Testing With Automatically Generated Items
Authors: Tian Chen , Choi Jaehwa
Published: March 2023

Sibling items developed through automatic item generation share similar but not identical psychometric properties. However, considering sibling item variations may bring huge computation difficulties and little improvement on scoring. Assuming identical characteristics among siblings, this study explores the impact of item model parameter variations (i.e., within-family variation between siblings) on person parameter estimation in linear tests and Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT). Specifically, we explore (1) what if small/medium/large within-family variance is ignored, (2) if the effect of larger within-model variance can be compensated by greater test length, (3) if the item model pool properties affect the impact of within-family variance on scoring, and (4) if the issues in (1) and (2) are different in linear vs. adaptive testing. Related sibling model is used for data generation and identical sibling model is assumed for scoring. Manipulated factors include test length, the size of within-model variation, and item model pool characteristics. Results show that as within-family variance increases, the standard error of scores remains at similar levels. For correlations between true and estimated score and RMSE, the effect of the larger within-model variance was compensated by test length. For bias, scores are biased towards the center, and bias was not compensated by test length. Despite the within-family variation is random in current simulations, to yield less biased ability estimates, the item model pool should provide balanced opportunities such that “fake-easy” and “fake-difficult” item instances cancel their effects. The results of CAT are similar to that of linear tests, except for higher efficiency.
An App Evaluation System for All Stakeholders: A Pilot Study
Authors: Da Fonte M. Alexandra , Wolfe Nicole P. , DeLuca Emily R. , Cavagnini Melissa J. , Nardi Krista L.
Published: March 2023

Mobile technologies, including apps, have become increasingly popular, and are being used to support daily activities among a variety of individuals. While the use of mobile technologies will not eliminate barriers often faced by individuals with disabilities, these systems have the potential to help minimize some of these barriers. As the popularity of apps is increasing, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability, internal consistency, and social validity among novice raters on two app evaluation rating scales. A total of 17 adults, with and without identified disabilities, evaluated apps using two team-designed app rating scales. Overall, findings indicated that the ratings completed during the pilot phase by the research team were more reliable than those completed by novice raters during the testing phase; that the dimension of individualization was the most reliable among team raters and novice participants without disabilities; and that the highest level of inconsistency in the reliability was among novice participants with disabilities. Practical implications, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.
Grammatical expressions of time in Macbeth
Authors: Tambar Jaspreet S.
Published: March 2023

Grammatical strategies in Macbeth comprise one of the play's most fascinating yet unexplored poetic and political devices. Constructions of tense, aspect, and mood inform Macbeth's attempts to articulate the pressures of time and mutability, stretching the grammatical categories allowed by the English language. These irregular extensions of past, present, and future linguistically correlate with the political crises and ruptures in the play. Following an examination of the influential Lily's Grammar, I show how the semantic matrix of tense, aspect, and mood expresses the warped sense of time constituting Macbeth's psychology as well as dissolution of moral order.
Intergenerational Transmission of Values: From Parent–Child Value Similarity to Parent–Child Value Continuity
Authors: Barni Daniela , Zagrean Ioana , Russo Claudia , Danioni Francesca
Published: March 2023

The process of value transmission between parents and children is unanimously considered the hallmark of successful socialization. The outcomes of value transmission have been often solely measured in terms of parent–child value similarity, thus assuming that the higher is the parent–child value similarity, the more successful is the value transmission. The present study highlighted the dialectical nature of the intergenerational transmission of values and aimed at developing a different perspective on this process by introducing the concept of value “continuity.” This term etymologically means “hang together” and entails a flow and a progression across generations. The study involved 325 Italian mother–adolescent dyads, who were asked to fill in a self-report questionnaire. Results showed the importance of considering children’s autonomous motivations in accepting or rejecting their parents’ values to find more comprehensive meanings of parent–child value similarities and differences. Implications of the findings and future research developments are discussed.
Dosage Reporting in Early Intervention Literature: A Systematic Review
Authors: Frick Teran A. , Schnitz Alana G. , Cosand Ky , Horn Eva M. , Zimmerman Kathleen N.
Published: March 2023

This systematic review explores the topic of Part C Early Intervention (EI) dosage reporting and decision-making factors. From an extensive search following PRISMA guidelines, we identified 14 interdisciplinary studies (combination of descriptive, correlational, mixed method, qualitative, and single case design) that met the criteria and synthesized them based on the reported definitions and data of EI dosage components, including frequency, duration, and intensity, as well as factors associated with this data at child, family, and community levels. Results indicate frequency was most reported, whereas duration and intensity were inconsistently reported, as were service delivery models. The inconsistency of reporting did not allow for interpretations of effective dosage; however, disparities based on different factors are shared. Results and discussion are provided for each level of factors, such as family demographics, insurance enrollment, and disability classification. Implications for further research and practice, especially for EI dosage decision-making and reporting, are included.
Digital transformation enablers in high-tech and low-tech companies: A comparative analysis
Authors: Sergei Titov , Arkady Trachuk , Natalya Linder , Pathak RD , Samson Danny , Husain Zafar , Sushil S
Published: March 2023

Digital transformation (DT) is a complex, socio-technical, strategic, and often radical change influenced by various aspects, among which non-technological, organizational factors play significant roles. The literature on DT enablers suggests sensitivity to the organizational context, especially to the technology intensity of companies. This article analyzes the variations in non-technological DT enablers in high-tech and low-tech manufacturing companies. Through a systematic literature review, using coding techniques and cluster analysis, we created 20 aggregated enabler categories. With the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method, clustered DT enablers in high-tech and low-tech companies were compared. High-tech companies enable DT with the factors related primarily to organizational flexibility and dynamism. In contrast, low-tech firms propel DT with the enablers connected to more stable, traditional, managerial practices.

JEL Classification:

031 and 032
Multianticipative Adaptive Cruise Control Compared With Connectivity-Enhanced Solutions: Simulation-Based Investigation in Mixed Traffic Platoons
Authors: Donà Riccardo , Mattas Konstantinos , Albano Giovanni , Ciuffo Biagio
Published: March 2023

The paper explores via simulation analysis how multianticipative adaptive cruise control (M-ACC) can address traffic oscillations with respect to cooperative adaptive cruise control (CACC) approaches. The work is grounded on our previous findings where we suggested a functioning logic and a performance characterization of M-ACC. That activity followed a manufacturer’s claim that vehicles capable of reacting to more than one leader ahead are already populating public roads. In this light, M-ACC represents an intermediate solution between the traditional ACC, which typically is capable of reacting to only one vehicle ahead, and connectivity-enhanced approaches, which in principle could track multiple leaders. Given that M-ACC is effective from small penetration rates—as it does not require the presence of other M-ACC-equipped vehicles to reach its full potential—performance comparison with CACC is not straightforward. In particular, for a fair comparison it is necessary to quantify the performance gap as a function of the penetration rate, which is exactly the objective of this paper. Three CACC topologies are investigated and both stochastic simulations and Pareto analyses are performed. The results demonstrate that, for small market penetration figures, M-ACC can still guarantee better performances than any CACC heterogenous platoons for all the metrics considered given that it does not require infrastructure or other adjacent vehicles featuring the same technology. Considering that the market adoption of connectivity-based solutions is facing challenging practical issues, M-ACC could represent a suitable as well as realistic option to harvest the benefits of automation to traffic flow in the near future.
Analyzing the Behavior and Growth of Cycling in Four North American Cities Before, During, and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Valenzuela Eduardo Adame , Barban Pierre , Beitel David , Moreno Luis Fernando Miranda , Nguyen Van-Thanh-Van
Published: March 2023

The paper highlights the changes in cycling patterns and ridership trends across 12 years (including the COVID-19 pandemic) in Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, and New York. Using data from 17 bicycle counting stations, changes in the dynamics of daily and weekly profiles before and during pandemic were determined. Additionally, the ridership demand evolution across the years was explored using models that controlled for variations in the weather. All the studied bicycle facilities experienced changes in the daily and hourly patterns in 2020 (the first year of the pandemic), tending toward recreational purposes. Significant growth in bicycle activity during the first year of the pandemic has been found, but trends for the following years (2021 and 2022) have not been studied. This study found that all counting sites located on cycling facilities primarily used for utilitarian purposes experienced a growth in ridership during 2020. Ridership on utilitarian corridors in Montreal and New York City grew considerably during the pandemic before stabilizing in 2021 and 2022. The same counting sites rapidly reverted to utilitarian hourly and daily patterns in 2021. The mixed-utilitarian bicycle facilities in Ottawa and Montreal shifted toward more recreational uses during the pandemic, though ridership did not grow in 2021 and 2022. All the counting sites in Vancouver shifted toward mixed use during the first year of the pandemic and did not show any clear signs of reverting to their utilitarian patterns.
Investigating ESWL success rate in the treatment of renal and ureteral stones in children
Authors: Soleimani Mohammad Javad , Shahrokh Hossein , Soraki Vahid Vahedi , Fakhar Vahid , Ghaed Mohammad Ali , Narouie Behzad
Published: March 2023

Objective:

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is one of the most important methods of treatment for stone in children. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the success rate of ESWL in the treatment of kidney and ureteral stones in children referred to Hasheminejad kidney center during the second half of 2018.

Patients and methods:

This observational prospective study was conducted on 144 children referred to Hasheminejad kidney center during the 2018. The patients were selected using the convenience sampling method. The study was investigating the success rate of ESWL in the treatment of kidney and ureteral stones and effective factors in this regard.

Results:

A total of 133 patients (92.4%) had stone passage and 37.5% of patients had residual stones, 28.5% of which were less than 5 mm in diameter. Successful results were seen in 131 cases (91%). Successful results were significantly higher in males ( p = 0.011) and lower in simultaneous stones in the middle calyx and lower calyx ( p = 0.0001).

Conclusion:

According to the results of this study, it can be inferred that ESWL success rate was above 90% in the treatment of kidney and ureteral stones in children in such a way that with an ESWL session in patients who have been properly selected for this procedure, a success rate of about 62.5% will be available to remove any residual fragments, and nearly 28.5% have residual fragments with a diameter of smaller than 5 mm, which is basically hopeful for a high urinary passage. The present study shows that type and stone location are the factors contributing to the successful ESWL and shows the female gender and the presence of stone in the lower and middle calyx are the risk factors for the lower ESWL success rate.
Revisiting Analogical Reasoning in Computing Education: Use of Similarities Between Robot Programming Tasks in Debugging
Authors: Kim ChanMin , Dinç Emre , Lee Eunseo , Baabdullah Afaf , Zhang Anna Y. , Belland Brian R.
Published: March 2023

Analogical reasoning is considered to be a critical cognitive skill in programming. However, it has been rarely studied in a block-based programming context, especially involving both virtual and physical objects. In this multi-case study, we examined how novice programming learners majoring in early childhood education used analogical reasoning while debugging block code to make a robot perform properly. Screen recordings, scaffolding entries, reflections, and block code were analyzed. The cross-case analysis suggested multimodal objects enabled the novice programming learners to identify and use structural relations. The use of a robot eased the verification process by enabling them to test their analogies immediately after the analogy application. Noticing similar functional analogies led to noticing similarities in the relation between block code as well as between block code and the robot, guiding to locate bugs. Implications and directions for future educational computing research are discussed.
Pluronic-phosphatidylcholine mixed polymeric nanomicellar formulation for curcumin drug bioavailability: Design, fabrication, characterization and in vitro bioinvestigations
Authors: Patel Hemil S , Kunjadiya Anju , Rahdar Abbas , Sharma Rakesh K
Published: March 2023

Curcumin (CUR), obtained from turmeric, has biological advantages, but low aqueous solubility restricts its pharmaceutical applications. In the present work, a mixed polymeric nanomicellar formulation composed of bioactive Pluronic P123, Pluronic F68, and biocompatible phosphatidylcholine (PC) was designed and examined as the nanovehicles for overcoming the major barriers of poor bioavailability related to CUR. The CUR-incorporated P123/F68/PC mixed nanomicellar formulation (CUR-PFPC) was fabricated by the thin film technique and investigated in vitro. The fabrication of CUR-PFPC was optimized through D-optimal design. CUR-PFPC morphology, size distribution, zeta potential, drug encapsulating and incorporation efficiency, compatibility, and crystallinity were characterized using DLS, TEM, FTIR, XRD, and DSC analysis. Moreover, the cumulative drug release, antioxidant assays, and antimicrobial properties of formulations were also examined. The CUR-PFPC formulation exhibited a micellar size of 67.43 nm, a zeta potential of −15.1 mV, a PDI of 0.528, and a spherical shape. The mixed micellar formulation showed excellent compatibility and stability. The in vitro release profile of the CUR-PFPC reached over 60% in comparison to the 95% release of CUR, indicating a slow and sustained release. The DPPH assay showed that the CUR-PFPC had 96% antioxidant activity. Results show that the CUR-PFPC has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties, which separates it from the free CUR. These findings suggest that the fabricated CUR-PFPC mixed polymeric nanomicellar formulation is thermodynamically and kinetically stable and may be considered a novel nanovehicle for hydrophobic antimicrobial drugs like CUR.

Graphical Abstract

[Formula: see text]
Depression, Alcohol Misuse, and Suicide Attempt Among North Korean Refugee Women Exposed to Gender-Based Violence
Authors: Nam Boyoung , Kim Joonbeom , Kim Jae Yop , Lee Yujin
Published: March 2023

North Korean (NK) refugee women report a disproportionately high rate of suicide compared to the general South Korean (SK) population. NK refugee women’s exposure to gender-based violence (GBV) is a risk factor for adverse mental health symptoms. However, the association between GBV exposure and mental health has received less scholarly attention. This study examined NK refugee women’s exposure to GBV (i.e., sexual violence, human trafficking, and forced sex work) and explored whether it is associated with an increased risk of depression, alcohol misuse, and suicide attempts. A three-way interaction between depression, alcohol misuse, and suicide attempts among GBV-exposed NK refugee women was examined. Data from a snowball sample of 180NK refugee women were analyzed for this study. Findings show that 47.8% experienced GBV in either NK or intermediary countries. Multivariate analyses revealed that depression ( OR = 1.13, p < .05) and alcohol misuse ( OR = 3.01, p < .01) was significantly associated with suicide attempts in GBV-exposed groups. Results from the three-way interaction (GBV victimization × Depression × Alcohol misuse) suggest that GBV exposure and higher levels of depression were significantly associated with suicide attempts among NK refugee women with greater severity of alcohol misuse ( OR = 1.75, p < .05). The findings indicate that NK refugee women with GBV exposure, depression, and alcohol misuse are at increased risk for suicide attempts. Study limitations included the use of snowball sampling and cross-sectional data. This study discusses implications for future research and targeted, trauma-informed treatments focused on GBV and mental health symptoms among NK refugee women.
Social Support for Breastfeeding Practice During the COVID-19 Second Wave in Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nuampa Sasitara , Kuesakul Kornkanok , Prasong Sudhathai , Sudphet Metpapha
Published: March 2023

Background:

Since December 2020, the second wave of COVID-19 in Thailand has had a considerable impact, and mothers have struggled to receive breastfeeding support in hospitals. In this situation, there has been limited research that addresses social support for breastfeeding and the influences of support in determining breastfeeding outcomes.

Research Aims:

(1) To describe the influence of COVID-19 on social support for breastfeeding and breastfeeding practices in the Thai context, and (2) to examine breastfeeding duration with different levels of social support from families and healthcare providers.

Method:

This descriptive, cross-sectional online survey design was part of a larger multi-methods project about breastfeeding behaviors and experiences among postpartum mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Online questionnaires were administered from August to November 2021 to participants ( N = 390) who were from three provinces in Thailand and had given birth 6–12 months prior to the survey.

Results:

Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months was observed in less than half of the participants ( n = 146, 37.4%). Perceptions of breastfeeding support were generally high overall among both family (Mdn = 45, IQR = 7) and healthcare providers (Mdn = 43, IQR = 7). Participants who perceived more breastfeeding support from families than the median had significantly longer exclusive breastfeeding durations than those who perceived less breastfeeding support than the median ( z = −2.246, p = .025). The same pattern was present for breastfeeding support from healthcare providers ( z = −2.380, p = 0.017).

Conclusions:

While the exclusive breastfeeding rate was better than the pre-pandemic rate, successful breastfeeding was more common when participants perceived that they had received breastfeeding support. Policymakers should execute breastfeeding support systems along with COVID-19 management.
The Equality Hurdle: Resolving the Welfare State Paradox
Authors: Barth Erling , Reisel Liza , Misje Østbakken Kjersti
Published: March 2023

This article revisits a central tenet of the welfare state paradox, also known as the inclusion-equality trade-off. Using large-scale survey data for 31 European countries and the United States, collected over a recent 15-year period, the article re-investigates the relationship between female labour force participation and gender segregation. Emphasising the transitional role played by the monetisation of domestic tasks, the study identifies a ‘gender equality hurdle’ that countries with the highest levels of female labour force participation have already passed. The results show that occupational gender segregation is currently lower in countries with high female labour force participation, regardless of public sector size. However, the findings also indicate that high relative levels of public spending on health, education and care are particularly conducive to desegregation. Hence, rather than being paradoxical, more equality in participation begets more equality in the labour market, as well as in gendered tasks in society overall.
Linear stability and nonlinear rotor responses of the gas foil bearing with multiple sliding beams
Authors: Li Changlin , Du Jianjun , Li Jie , Xu Zhenni
Published: March 2023

This article reports the stability and dynamic characteristics of a passive gas foil bearing (MSGFB) in which multiple sliding beams provide the elastic support and Coulomb damping. The linear and nonlinear dynamic models of rotor-MSGFB system are established, both considering the complex contact constraints inside foil structures. The instability mechanism of rotor-foil bearing system is revealed from the equivalent dynamic stiffness and the critical whirl speed. The half speed whirl and the frequency locked vibrations are both observed in the simulations, indicating the nonlinearities of gas film and foil structure respectively. The results also show that larger rotor preload of MSGFB help suppress the half speed whirl vibrations and assist improving high speed rotor stability especially under the friction effect.
Forced convection heat transfer of concurrent Al2O3/PCM nanofluid flows in a concentric double tube
Authors: Ho C J , Huang S H , Lai Chi-Ming
Published: March 2023

A trend toward high power and relatively small package sizes in electronic components has resulted in a dramatic increase in the corresponding heating flux; thus, the enhancement of internal convection has been a focus of attention. In this study, to improve the thermal efficiency of the internal flow, the forced-convection heat transfer of concurrent flows of functional working fluids through the outer annulus/inner tube of a concentric double tube was investigated experimentally and compared to that of an identical double tube filled with water, for which limited information is available. The fluids in the outer annulus/inner tube were 0.5% Al2O3-water nanofluid/pure water, 1.0% Al2O3-water nanofluid/pure water, and 1.0% Al2O3-water nanofluid/4.63% phase-change nanofluid. The nominal values of the main parameters were as follows: heating power = 120 W, 160 W, and 200 W; Reynolds number = 800, 1300, and 1700; and concurrent flow ratio = 0.1, 0.29, 0.45, 1.0, 1.6, and 2.38. The results indicated that when the outer annulus and the inner tube were filled with a 1.0% Al2O3-water nanofluid and a 4.63% PCM emulsion/or water, respectively, a high total flow rate and high flow ratio could suppress the rise in the wall temperature and increase the average heat transfer coefficients. Although using a functional working fluid may enhance heat transfer, this gain is considerably smaller than the increase in the pressure drop, resulting in the figures of merit for nearly all the considered cases being lower than 1.
Reasons for incomplete STI vaccination among men who have sex with men in an English sexual health service
Authors: Armstrong Heather L , Scholfield Clare , Symonds Ynez , Nadarzynski Tom , Graham Cynthia A
Published: March 2023

Background

In England, vaccination for human papillomavirus, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B is recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM). However, uptake is sub-optimal and some men do not complete all recommended vaccine doses. This service evaluation aimed to explore reasons for lack of uptake for each of these vaccines among MSM in one English sexual health service and to inform improvements in service delivery to increase full dose completion rates.

Methods

MSM, ≥18 years, who had previously attended NHS Solent Sexual Health for at least one vaccination, and who had not completed the full dosing regimen for at least one of these vaccines, were invited to participate in an anonymous, online survey between 14/12/2020-11/04/2021.

Results

Among 246 MSM ( M = 42.1 years), the most common reason for non-vaccination was that participants thought it was unneeded and had not been recommended by a doctor or healthcare provider. None reported vaccine hesitancy. Likewise, the most common reasons for vaccination were doctor/healthcare provider recommendation (51.7–65.6%) and self-protection (60.9–68.1%). The most common reason for not having completed the full course of vaccination was being unaware that the next dose was due (30.0–37.8%). Many participants who had not completed vaccination indicated that a doctor/healthcare provider recommendation would be a motivating factor and that reminder messages and being able to book subsequent appointments in advance would facilitate vaccination.

Conclusions

Sexual health clinicians should be encouraged to discuss STI vaccination with MSM and services should explore possibilities to improve ease and access to vaccine appointments to increase uptake and completion rates.
Why Recurrent Depression Should Be Reconceptualized and Redefined
Authors: Monroe Scott M. , Harkness Kate L.
Published: March 2023

Major depressive disorder is the leading cause of physical and mental disability worldwide, affecting more than 264 million people. A disproportionate amount of the enormous personal, societal, and economic toll is attributable to recurrent depression, wherein individuals suffer episodes repeatedly throughout their lives. At present, no clinical or scientific evidence can predict who will develop the disorder on an individual basis. We suggest two explanations for this pivotal prognostic impasse. First, a widespread belief that major depression is primarily a highly recurrent disorder is incorrect and misleading. Second, this incorrect belief has biased concepts, definitions, and research practices, further reinforcing the idea that depression usually is highly recurrent. We explain how such a belief and associated research practices stand in the way of progress, and we outline an agenda for discovering who is at greatest risk for recurrences following depression’s first onset.
‘From Plot to People’: A Photovoice Exploration of South Asian Farmer Livelihood Diversification Strategies When Extra Time and Money are Found Through Zero Tillage Adoption
Authors: Brown Brendan , Sharma Akriti , Karki Emma , Chaudhary Anjana
Published: March 2023

Impact evaluations are dominated by the application of development economics to assess the direct impacts of change at the plot level, while studies that focus on the impact of such plot-level changes on livelihoods remain rare. This raises questions about the ‘so-what’ of the adoption of labour and money-saving practices such as Zero Tillage to the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Piloting a qualitative photovoice methodology with 25 South Asian households, the priorities and strategies of resource-poor South Asian smallholder farmers are explored when they have freed time and financial resources available. Various activities related to agricultural and livelihood diversification are linked by informants to broader impacts on their resilience, life satisfaction and broader livelihood outcomes. Despite being a pilot qualitative study, results indicate that cereal system intensification may be synergistic and not antagonistic to crop and livelihood diversification, especially if framed in whole-of-livelihood-focused initiatives that look for opportunities to utilize saved resources. Likewise, the value of humanizing research through qualitative participatory methods that centre ‘people rather than plots’ is highlighted through the broad linkages that informants identified from their diverse livelihood strategies.