bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connecting the dots in systems of domination and violence: a conversation
Authors: Ransby Barbara , Purnell Derecka
Published: July 2023

This article is an edited version of a conversation between Barbara Ransby and Derecka Purnell, two US-based key Black feminist activists on ‘New lines of Black resistance in the US: undoing racial capitalism and the carceral state’, which took place at the ‘New Circuits of Anti-racism Conference’, King’s College London, October 2022 (IRR50). They discuss their own political journeys, shared by many activists today, which they describe as involving building and re-envisioning a desired future, as well as the role of Black feminism and abolition. The conversation, introduced by Chantelle Lewis of Surviving Society and Sophia Siddiqui of Race & Class, unpacks the workings of the carceral state and the specific racial and class targeting of surplus Black workers. Drawing from their experience on the practicalities of organising today, they discuss their commitment to internationalism, the challenges of building genuine coalitions and the need to connect the dots between different systems of domination and violence to understand the functioning of the carceral state, and the centrality of reproductive justice and the fight for bodily autonomy.
Labour geography and the state: Exploring labour's role in working against, with and through the state to improve labour standards
Authors: Hastings Thomas , Herod Andrew
Published: July 2023

State labour inspection has been relatively underresearched in economic and labour geography, despite its prospective role in tackling worker exploitation as part of national state regulatory strategies. This paper seeks to address this gap by critically examining state labour inspection as a government function capable of upholding labour standards within and across economic space. A key contribution of the paper is to make stronger connections between workers’ spatial strategies and their ability to shape how labour inspection and standards enforcement is carried out. Focusing upon the UK and Ireland, we examine different ways in which some labour-friendly groups have sought to contest but also to support state labour inspection efforts with a view to protecting workers.
Kinetic study of mechanical and thermal properties and thermal degradation of PVC composites based on coal gasification fine slag
Authors: Teng Yanhua , Li Kangli , Chen Long , Wang Kerui , Xue Changguo
Published: July 2023

Coal gasification fine slag (CGFS) is a by-product of gasification process of gasification beds that pollutes the environment. To make the utilization of CGF more efficient, poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC)/CGFS composites were prepared via a melt blending process, and their mechanical and thermal properties were investigated. In order to dig deeper into the decomposition mechanism, the thermal degradation kinetics were systematically analyzed by drawing non-isothermal heat maps based on the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa, Friedman, and Kissinger model-free methods. According to the results, the properties of all tests vary significantly with CGFS content. In particular, at a the CGFS content of 20 phr, the tensile strength (tensile modulus) and flexural strength (flexural modulus) of CGFS-20 were 13.5% (47.8%) and 13.9% (41.6%) higher, respectively, than those of conventional CGFS-0 composites. However, the impact strength decreases with the increase of CGFS content. At the same time, the addition of CGFS suppresses the mass conversion rate and improves the thermal stability of PVC composites at high temperature, and the final residual mass reaches 31%, which is 12.7% higher than that of pure PVC. The kinetic analysis of thermal decomposition shows that CGFS promotes the initial degradation of the composites reduces the activation energy of the reaction, and at the same time endows them with higher thermal stability in the high-temperature phase.
Enhancing Career Adaptability Among University Students: An Intervention Study
Authors: Wetstone Hannah , Rice Kenneth G.
Published: July 2023

Recent college graduates are navigating a complex labor market due to the COVID-19 pandemic, changing economic conditions, and advancing technologies. Career adaptability, a psychosocial construct focused on managing career transitions, is critical for college students in this environment. Career adaptability interventions have shown promising results, but many are time consuming or involve one-on-one counseling, and none have focused on US college samples, which prompted this study. We tested a brief career adaptability training on a sample of 89 US college students and measured its effect on participants’ career adaptability resources (career concern, career control, career curiosity, career confidence) and career adapting responses (career decision self-efficacy, career planning). Results showed no increase in career adaptability resources or career planning but indicated an increase in career decision self-efficacy, suggesting that brief interventions may be effective for some desired outcomes but not others. Future research should examine which intervention ingredients are necessary to enhance career adaptability.
Iodine-induced hypothyroidism (IIH) in paediatric patients receiving peritoneal dialysis: Is risk mitigation possible?
Authors: Mannemuddhu Sai Sudha , Morgans Heather A , Warady Bradley A
Published: July 2023

Children with kidney failure who receive maintenance peritoneal dialysis (PD) are at increased risk for thyroid dysfunction. A poorly appreciated cause of hypothyroidism related to PD is iodine overload from exposure to iodine-containing cleaning solutions, iodinated contrast agents or povidone–iodine-containing PD caps, particularly in infants and small children. An international survey was conducted to understand current practices regarding iodine exposure in PD patients, the frequency of iodine-induced hypothyroidism (IIH) in patients receiving PD, and to assess awareness of this issue among paediatric nephrologists. Eighty-nine paediatric nephrology centres responded to the survey. Hypothyroidism in PD patients was diagnosed in 64% ( n = 57) of responding centres, although only 19 of these centres (33%) suspected or diagnosed IIH. Aetiologies of IIH included exposure to povidone–iodine-containing PD caps (53%), cleaning solutions with iodine (37%) and iodinated contrast (10%). While most centres (58%, n = 52) routinely evaluate thyroid function, only 34% ( n = 30) specifically aim to limit iodine exposure. Of centres not routinely evaluating for or utilising methods to prevent iodine exposure and hypothyroidism, 81% reported being unaware of the risk of IIH in PD patients. Hypothyroidism is diagnosed in a substantial percentage of paediatric PD programmes internationally. Increased education on the risk of iodine exposure in children receiving PD may decrease the incidence of IIH as an aetiology of hypothyroidism.
Evaluation of Dental Enamel Thickness in Maxillary Teeth of Alouatta guariba clamitans, Alouatta caraya, and Sapajus nigritus by Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Przydzimirski Andreise C. , Maciel José V. B. , Luiz Gabriela C. , Lange Rogério R.
Published: July 2023

Tooth enamel thickness is widely studied in primates and is important in differentiating taxa and in interpreting diet and feeding behavior. The objective of this study was to measure enamel thickness and discuss whether the results can be associated with different feeding patterns. Thirty-four syncraniums of Alouatta guariba clamitans, Alouatta caraya, and Sapajus nigritus were subjected to cone beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans, and the dental enamel was measured in different regions of the crown using the multiplanar reconstruction tool. The differences observed indicate that for many variables and teeth, A. guariba clamitans showed significantly higher values compared to the other 2 species, with the exception of the cuspid region. Although the A. guariba clamitans is a folivorous species, it showed thicker enamel for most of the variables. CBCT was efficient in performing the measurements, allowing analysis of the syncraniums.
Effect of fin configuration and orientation of latent heat storage system on the melting and solidification performance
Authors: Amudhalapalli Gopi Krishna , Devanuri Jaya Krishna
Published: July 2023

Phase change materials (PCMs) are used to store thermal energy. They possess high specific energy at nearly constant temperatures. The usage of the PCMs is limited due to their very low thermal conductivity, which results in poor heat transfer. To overcome this problem usage of fins is a potential technique. In the current analysis, the surface area of the heat transfer fluid (HTF) tube is increased by radial (R-type), spiral (S-type), and longitudinal (L-type) fins. A 3D numerical analysis of melting and solidification is carried out on R-type, S-type, and L-type shell and tube (S&T) PCM heat exchanger (HX) by considering the inclination effects. Lauric acid is used as PCM. Phase change time, energy ratio, and exergy efficiency are considered to analyze the performance of HXs. MOORA analysis is carried out to select the best HX. It is observed that R-type HX at the vertical position has shown better performance among the selected HXs. Among the considered geometries, the maximum average exergy efficiency is obtained for 45° inclination with R-type HX and minimum for horizontally positioned L-type HX during both melting and solidification. The charging time of the vertically positioned HX, when compared to 45o oriented HX with R type, S type, and L type HX is observed to decrease by 47.5%, 45.7%, and 23%, respectively.
Comprehensive quality index and map of cast Al alloys according to artificial aging heat treatment conditions using TOPSIS and multiple regression analysis and determination of reasonable heat treatment condition
Authors: Yang Ji-Yon , Yang Won-Chol , Kim Ryong-Chol , Jon Gyong-Hui
Published: July 2023

Some quality indices such as Q, QR, QC and Q0 have been used to evaluate quality level of cast aluminum alloys (Al alloys) based on tensile properties, and quality map has been used to intuitively evaluate the quality level based on the quality index. The previous quality indices and maps lack in evaluating the quality level throughout all the tensile properties, comprehensively. On the other hand, they don’t directly show the quality level according to artificial aging heat treatment condition, while they show the quality level according to the tensile properties. We propose a method to develop comprehensive quality index and map of cast Al alloy according to artificial aging heat treatment condition by using technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and multiple regression analysis. Moreover, we propose a method to determine a reasonable heat treatment condition by using extremum principle and grid search method. To illustrate the effectiveness, the methods are applied to the cast Al alloy A357. The proposed methods could be widely used to evaluate the comprehensive quality level of the cast Al alloys, and optimize the heat treatment condition.
COVID-19 coverage from six network and cable news sources in the United States: Representation of misinformation, correction, and portrayals of severity
Authors: Maloney Erin K. , White Allie J. , Samuel Litty , Boehm Michele , Bleakley Amy
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic in the United States is marked by divisions in perceptions of disease severity as well as misperceptions about the virus and vaccine that vary along ideological and political party lines. Perceptual differences may be due to differences in the information about the virus that individuals are exposed to within their own identity-affirming ideological news bubbles. This content analysis of six different national network transcripts highlights differences in coverage of severity, and the prevalence of misinformation and its correction that are consistent with previously established preferred news channels of conservatives/Republicans and liberals/Democrats and their perceptions and misperceptions about the pandemic. Results contribute to the growing body of country-specific COVID-19 media studies that allow for comparisons across nations with different cultures and media systems, as these factors play a pivotal role in national responses and experiences.
Test-Retest Reliability in Metric Conjoint Experiments: A New Workflow to Evaluate Confidence in Model Results
Authors: Schüler Jens , Anderson Brian S. , Y. Murnieks Charles , Baum Matthias , Küsshauer Alexander
Published: July 2023

Metric conjoint studies are a popular research design in the entrepreneurship domain. For these studies, test-retest reliabilities of ρ > .70 or higher are an often-cited reliability criterion. Despite their widespread use, however, there is little rigorous analysis of whether test-retest reliability in metric conjoint studies relates to model efficacy. Informed by a systematic literature review, we conducted two Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the effects of various determinants of test-retest reliability in conjoint experiments. We then illustrate a workflow for entrepreneurship researchers employing conjoint designs to better evaluate—and communicate—confidence in statistical models estimated from conjoint data.
Framing K-12 School Leaders’ Roles and Competencies in Times of Crisis
Authors: Williams Tomicka , Liou Yi-Hwa
Published: July 2023

This qualitative study explores school leaders’ (principals and assistant principals) perspectives on crisis leadership roles and their competencies in responding to and managing a crisis. The role of school leaders has become increasingly disrupted by unexpected incidents that are diverse and complex in nature. As such, their knowledge of crisis leadership roles and competencies is critical for schools’ effectiveness in an era of crisis management. The study draws on complex adaptive system theory (CAST) to explore the roles necessary for school leaders to become crisis leaders and analyze school leaders’ experiences and responses to crises in the educational setting. This study investigates qualitative interview data from 20 principals and assistant principals who were knowledgeable of safety protocols and experienced a crisis in one southern K-12 school district in the United States. Data analysis yielded three main leadership roles: (a) agile decision-maker, (b) influencer, and (c) coordinator. Each role is supported with interview data and literature to describe the competencies that guide the action of leaders as they respond to and manage a crisis. The roles support school leaders in reshaping their understanding of a crisis leader, and the competencies explain the actions during crisis response for a school leader. Exploring school leadership roles to manage a crisis in the K-12 system contributes to the literature on crisis leadership in the educational setting during a crisis.
Association of Argatroban Dose With Coagulation Laboratory Test in Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Activated Clotting Time vs Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time
Authors: Ahn Hyun-Young , Jung Yuju , Kim Tae Wan , Cho Yang Hyun , Yang Jeong Hoon , Chung Chi Ryang , Min Myung-Sook , Ko Ryoung-Eun
Published: July 2023

Background:

Only some studies have directly compared and analyzed the roles of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and activated clotting time (ACT) in coagulation monitoring during argatroban administration.

Objectives:

This study aims to assess the correlation of argatroban dose with ACT and aPTT values and to identify the optimal coagulation test for argatroban dose adjustment.

Methods:

We evaluated 55 patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) who received argatroban for more than 72 hours. The correlation between argatroban dose and aPTT and ACT values was evaluated. To compare argatroban dose and bleeding events according to liver dysfunction, the patients were divided into 2 groups based on alanine aminotransferase and total bilirubin.

Results:

Among the 55 patients, a total of 459 doses and coagulation tests were evaluated. The aPTT and ACT values showed a weak correlation with argatroban dose, with the Pearson correlation coefficients of 0.261 ( P < 0.001) and 0.194 ( P = 0.001), respectively. The agreement between the target 150 to 180 seconds for ACT and 55 to 75 seconds for aPTT was observed in 140 patients (46.1%). Twenty-four patients (43.6%) had liver dysfunction when they started argatroban. The median argatroban dose was lower in the liver dysfunction group than in the control group (0.094 mcg/kg/min vs 0.169 mcg/kg/min, P = 0.020). Difference was not observed between the 2 groups in the amount of red blood cell (0.47 vs 0.43 pack, P = 0.909) and platelet (0.60 vs 0.08 pack, P = 0.079) transfusion per day.

Conclusion and Relevance:

A weak correlation was observed between argatroban dose and the aPTT and ACT values. However, the agreement between aPTT and ACT was only 46.1% regarding the scope of target range. Further research is necessary to determine how to assess the optimal argatroban dose for patients administered argatroban while undergoing ECMO at the intensive care unit.
Sound insulation performance of curved sandwich structure combined with acoustic metamaterials
Authors: Wang Yu-Zhou , Ma Li
Published: July 2023

Sandwich structures are widely used in various fields. Curved sandwich structures have attracted the attention of researchers owing to their superior stiffness and strength. With the application of the structures in engineering, it is required that the structures can not only meet the needs of mechanical loads but also can cope with thermal, acoustic, optical, and electrical loads. Sound insulation is one of the most common problems in the fields of aerospace, transportation, and architecture, so it is imperative to research new structures with good mechanical and acoustic properties. In this paper, a composite structure which is coupled with curve shell sandwich structure and acoustic metamaterials is proposed to obtain good mechanical and acoustic properties. Based on the harmonic expansion method and principle of virtual work, the theoretical model is established and the sound transmission loss (STL) performance is studied. Then, the effects of the geometry of the structure and material parameters on the STL of the structure are discussed.
Red Thread Dancing|Feather Dreaming
Authors: Georges Darlene St. , fidyk alexandra
Published: July 2023

We offer a dream|dance in visual, metaphoric, and haptic image by engaging creation-centered poetic inquiring as a unique rendering of embodied reflexivity through the arts. Our lyric text, a songscape, framed by the interplay of chorus and storying verse, enacts the movement and mood of a dance. Red threads and feathers, as partners, symbolize the voice and agency of entities becoming within the complex relational-ecologies with whom we live. This songscape advances creation-centered research by demonstrating Whitehead’s ontology of becoming—process prioritized over substance—where bodily feelings provide the earthen richness through which images, emotions, hopes, and thoughts emerge. Working from modes of reflexivity within animate paradigms advances relational consciousness by foregrounding agential landscapes, ancestors, psychscapes, and our dependent co-arising. Here, relational consciousness reveals Nature—in all its forms—as a co-creative.
Drug extravasation with Enfortumab vedotin
Authors: Grant Christopher Ryan , de Kouchkovsky Dimitri , Kalebasty Arash Rezazadeh , Mar Nataliya
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Enfortumab vedotin is an antibody drug conjugate approved for management of pretreated locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, which is associated with a rare risk of drug extravasation and soft tissue reactions.

Case Report

We report two cases of EV extravasation with subsequent development of bullae and cellulitis.

Management and Outcome

They were both treated for cellulitis and had conservative management without surgical intervention and were able to resume treatment with Enfortumab vedotin without subsequent adverse events.

Discussion

We propose that EV acts as a vesicant upon extravasation, highlight measures to prevent extravasation events, and encourage appropriate measures when dealing such as attempt of aspiration, removal of catheter, application of compresses, and thorough documentation with photographic evidence.
Tourism development and urban housing prices: Evidence from China
Authors: Song Changyao , Liu Yijun , Li Xinjian , Zhang Jiayi , Lyu Qier
Published: July 2023

Tourism as a nontradable sector affects regional price indexes. However, the effect of tourism on urban housing prices has not been sufficiently studied. This study uses panel data for prefecture-level cities in China to empirically examine the effect of tourism development on urban housing prices. The findings indicate that tourism development can increase urban housing prices, and the effect mainly comes from domestic tourism. This conclusion is not only derived from the instrumental variable method considering endogenous problems but also verified by multiple robust methods including quantile regression. Meanwhile, the study innovatively identifies the mediating role of investment effect, income effect, and public service effect in the impact of tourism on urban housing prices. It further shows the heterogeneity of cities, with more significant effect of tourism on urban housing price in small- and medium-sized cities, noncentral cities, central and western cities, and nontourist cities. This study reveals the commonality and particularity of the impact of tourism development on urban housing price. It not only enriches the research on tourism economics from the perspectives of the relationship between tourism and real estate but also further enriches the relevant conclusions and theoretical mechanism of the impact of tourism on housing prices.
Wind turbine pitch bearing fault detection with Bayesian augmented temporal convolutional networks
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhang Long
Published: July 2023

There are few studies on the fault diagnosis of deep learning in real large-scale bearings, such as wind turbine pitch bearings. We present a novel fault diagnosis method, Bayesian augmented temporal convolutional network (BATCN), to filter the raw signal in wind turbine pitch bearing defect detection. This method, which employs temporal convolutional neural networks, is designed to capture the temporal dependencies of the signal, with such a focus on non-stationary relationships in the collected signals. By referring to the thoughts of Bayesian optimization, our approach can spontaneously find the best patch length that influences fault signal extraction during the filtering process, avoiding manual tuning of this hyper-parameter. This BATCN method is first performed on simulation signals and an open-source dataset of general bearings, and then validated on industrial wind turbine pitch bearings both in the lab and in the real wind farm, where the bearings have been operated for over 15 years. The results show that our method can work well for large-scale slow-speed wind turbine pitch bearings.
The Development of Totally Percutaneous Aortic Arch Repair With Inner-Branch Endografts: Experience From 2 Centers
Authors: Abisi Said , Elnemr Mohamed , Clough Rachel , Alotaibi Mohammed , Gkoutzios Panos , Modarai Bijan , Haulon Stephan
Published: July 2023

Objective:

The main objective of this study is to present the experience of 2 centers undertaking total percutaneous aortic arch-branched graft endovascular repair using combination of femoral and axillary routes. The report summarizes the procedural steps, outcomes achieved, and the benefits of this approach, which eliminates the need for direct open surgical exposure of the carotid, subclavian, or axillary arteries, thereby reducing the unnecessary associated surgical risks.

Methods:

Retrospectively collected data of 18 consecutive patients (15M:3F) undergoing aortic arch endovascular repair using a branched device between February 2021 and June 2022 at 2 aortic units. Six patients were treated for a residual aortic arch aneurysm following previous type A dissection with size range of (58–67 mm in diameter), 10 were treated for saccular or fusiform degenerative atheromatous aneurysm with size range of (51.5–80 mm in diameter), and 2 were treated for penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU) with size range of (50–55 mm). Technical success was defined as completion of the procedure and satisfactory placement of the bridging stent grafts (BSGs) in the supra-aortic vessels percutaneously including the brachiocephalic trunk (BCT), left common carotid artery (LCCA), and left subclavian artery (LSA) without the need for carotid, subclavian, or axillary cut down. The primary technical success was examined as primary outcome well as any other related complications and reinterventions as secondary outcomes.

Results:

The primary technical success with our alternative approach was achieved in all 18 cases. There was one access site complication (groin haematoma), which was managed conservatively. There was no incidence of death, stroke, or cases of paraplegia. No other immediate complications were noted. Postoperative imaging confirmed supra-aortic branch patency, with satisfactory position of the BSGs and immediate aneurysm exclusion except in 4 patients who had type 1C endoleak (Innominate: 2, LSA 2) detected on the first postoperative scan. Three of them were treated with relining/extension, and 1 spontaneously resolved after 6 weeks.

Conclusions:

Total percutaneous aortic arch repair with antegrade and retrograde inner-branch endografts can be performed with promising early results. Dedicated steerable sheaths and appropriate BSG would optimize the percutaneous approach for aortic arch endovascular repairs.

Clinical Impact

This article provides an alternative and innovative approach to improve the minimally invasive techniques in the endovascular treatment of the aortic arch conditions.
Prescribing Home Digital Thermometry Coupled with Activity Dosing and Optimized Offloading to Prolong Diabetic Foot Remission: A Case Report
Authors: Fernando Malindu E , Blanchette Virginie , Woelfel Stephanie L. , Armstrong Alexandria , DuBourdieu Charles , Shin Laura , Armstrong David G.
Published: July 2023

People with a history of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) experience diminished health-related quality of life and are at a 40% annual risk of DFU recurrence. Due to a fear of DFU recurrence, people in DFU remission participate less in physical activity and moderate-intensity exercise when compared to people with diabetes who have not had wounds. There is novel evidence to suggest that too little activity during DFU remission contributes to only low magnitudes of repetitive tissue loading creating a higher susceptibility to skin trauma during inadvertent high-activity bouts. Conversely, a hasty return to too much activity could lead to rapid recurrence. There is now high-level evidence from multiple meta-analyses to indicate that home-based foot temperature monitoring, coupled with activity modification and daily inspection of the feet for impending signs of ulceration, could reduce the risk of ulcer recurrence by 50%. There is little evidence, however, to guide the decision-making regarding the appropriate quantity and frequency of physical activity during DFU remission and the acceptability from the patient perspective. This has resulted in limited uptake of this novel intervention in clinical practice. Earlier, we proposed that activity can be dosed for people in foot ulcer remission, just like insulin or medication is dosed. Here, we describe a patient-centered approach to implementing home foot temperature monitoring coupled with daily foot checks and dosage-based return to physical activity in a patient in DFU remission, including his perspective. We believe using such an approach could maximize ulcer-free days in remission, thereby improving quality of life.
The ACTH Quandary: Balancing Efficacy and Affordability for Infantile Spasms Treatment
Authors: Aungaroon Gewalin
Published: July 2023

[Box: see text]
Interpersonal Distance Theory of Autism and Its Implication for Cognitive Assessment, Therapy, and Daily Life
Authors: Farkas Kinga , Pesthy Orsolya , Janacsek Karolina , Németh Dezső
Published: July 2023

The interpersonal distance (IPD) theory provides a novel approach to studying autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this article, we present recent findings on the neurobiological underpinnings of IPD regulation that are distinct in individuals with ASD. We also discuss the potential influence of environmental factors on IPD. We suggest that different IPD regulation may have implications for cognitive performance in experimental and diagnostic settings, may influence the effectiveness of training and therapy, and may play a role in the typical forms of social communication and leisure activities chosen by autistic individuals. We argue that reconsidering the results of ASD research through the lens of IPD would lead to a different interpretation of previous findings. Finally, we propose a methodological approach to study this phenomenon systematically.
Autoethnography as a Debriefing Strategy: The Creative-Relational Foundations for a Transformative Ethico-Onto-Epistemology in the Academy
Authors: Tolmos Leandro , Hannes Karin , de Andrade Marisa
Published: July 2023

Today’s qualitative research may take place in complicated ethnographic fields, which situate researchers near difficult experiences at an individual, community, environmental or political level. The current academic climate frequently ignores the emotional impact of doing research under challenging circumstances. The overarching culture in higher education is one that carries taboos around ‘what is’ and ‘what is not’ expected from the researcher. The general expectation is for researchers to ‘neutralize’ themselves from the research topic rather than personally relate to it. Under the cultural belief of sustaining ‘scholarly composure’ the affective and emotional impact of fieldwork is often left on the margins of recognition. This paper explores the value of autoethnography as a creative-relational approach to promote spaces in which researchers feel safe enough to process fieldwork experiences through debriefing sessions. This is a courageous effort that calls for a transformative ethico-onto-epistemological shift in the academy. One that opens-up ways of ‘knowing and being’ that are not entirely about an outcome-based pursuit but about growth and change that materializes through relationality.
A comparative study of the attentional blink of facial expression in deaf and hearing children
Authors: Yu Yu Zhan , Jin Xing , Jia Linxiang
Published: July 2023

The rapid serial visual presentation paradigm was used to investigate differences in the attentional blink between deaf children and hearing children in response to facial expressions of fear and disgust. The results showed that: (1) deaf and hearing children had a higher accuracy rate for T1 with disgustful facial expression than T1 with fear facial expression, (2) There was no significant difference in attentional blink between deaf and hearing children, (3) When T2 appeared at Lag6, the response accuracy of T2 in the disgust T1 condition was lower than that in fear T1 condition. However, no significant difference in T2 at Lag2 was found between the two conditions. The results showed that deaf children and those with hearing were more sensitive to facial expressions of disgust, which captured more attentional resources, and the ability of visual attention of deaf children was not weaker than hearing children.
The rocking line illusion
Authors: Thornton Ian M. , Todorović Dejan
Published: July 2023

A new visual illusion is described in which a smoothly translating object appears to rock around its own center during motion. This “rocking line” illusion occurs when the object passes through contrast boundaries formed by static background elements. However, for it to appear, the spatial scale of the display must be adjusted appropriately. We provide an online demo where the effect can be experienced and relevant parameters manipulated.
Rare case of inguinal cystic lymphangioma diagnosed and treated in elderly patient
Authors: Koubbach Yassine , Rabii Redouan , El Houry Younes , Oqbani Kenza , Bouknani Nawal
Published: July 2023

Cystic lymphangioma develops due to the interruption of lymphatic-venous connections during embryogenesis, leading to the formation of a cystic lesion containing lymph. These lesions fall under the ISSVA classification of vascular malformations. The first documented case dates back to 1828, with further elucidation provided by Sabin in 1909 and 1919. Cervicofacial region is the most common site, often showing early-stage symptoms. Inguinal location is rare, but if complications arise, it may present as a strangulated inguinal hernia. The tumor’s severity lies in its compression and invasion of the aerodigestive tract and adjacent organs. Diagnosis relies on imaging techniques such as ultrasound and computed tomography, which help determine the mass’s nature, boundaries, and relationship with neighboring structures. Asymptomatic lesions are generally monitored, while symptomatic ones require complete surgical excision to minimize the risk of recurrence. At Cheikh Khalifa University Hospital, we present a case highlighting our urology department’s experience in diagnosis, patient care, and surgical treatment.
Irritant contact dermatitis due to povidone-iodine following a surgical intervention: An unusual case report
Authors: Khan Mohammed Affan Osman , Ramadugu Rithika , Suvvari Tarun Kumar , M Vijayalakshmi , Thomas Vimal
Published: July 2023

The most common day-to-day antiseptic preparation used before any surgery usually involves povidone-iodine. Any irritant reaction to it can be devastating for the patient’s aspect and would raise the need for a preliminary investigation prior to going through any antiseptic preparation. In literature, very few cases were reported on irritant dermatitis with povidone-iodine in Indian setting. We present a case of an 18-year-old female presented with irritant contact dermatitis due to povidone-iodine following a surgical intervention.
Variability in the presentation of complicated jejunal diverticulosis
Authors: Dunckley M.G. , Ahmed K. , Said A. , Raza M. , Dighe S. , Al-Temimi A.
Published: July 2023

Jejunal diverticulosis is a rare disease which normally presents for the first time with acute complications, often requiring surgical intervention. The diverticulae are acquired, occurring more commonly after middle age, but their aetiology is unclear. We discuss this condition in the context of four cases which presented to our hospital as emergencies over a five year period: small bowel obstruction, gastrointestinal haemorrhage, small bowel volvulus, and visceral perforation. Our aim is to encourage clinicians to include jejunal diverticular disease as a differential diagnosis in patients with abdominal symptoms.
Repeat histopathology and culture of colonic biopsy specimens after treatment for Escherichia coli-associated granulomatous colitis in a cat
Authors: Waite Oliver , Yaffy Dylan , Kathrani Aarti
Published: July 2023

Case summary

A 7.5-year-old neutered male Oriental Shorthair cat presented with an 8-month history of haematochezia, mucoid diarrhoea, tenesmus and vocalisation after a 4-year history of small bowel diarrhoea. Transabdominal ultrasonography confirmed diffuse colonic wall thickening and extensive ulceration and erythema after colonoscopy. Colonic histopathology confirmed periodic acid-Schiff positive macrophages, consistent with granulomatous colitis; Escherichia coli was cultured from colonic biopsy specimens. Fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) identified intracellular E coli, and an 8-week oral course of marbofloxacin, a hydrolysed protein diet and a 5-day course of fenbendazole yielded a transient partial clinical remission of the colitis signs. A reported resolution in the small bowel signs was also reported. Colonoscopy was repeated 5 months later due to the recurrence of colitis signs. Histopathology was not consistent with granulomatous colitis supporting a complete remission; however, a chronic inflammatory enteropathy was confirmed with moderate lymphoplasmacytic, neutrophilic and eosinophilic colitis without a histiocytic component. E coli was again cultured from colonic biopsies with sensitivity to fluoroquinolones; FISH was positive for intracellular E coli. Clinical signs persisted despite a 2-week course of oral marbofloxacin.

Relevance and novel information

E coli-associated granulomatous colitis is rare in cats. Colonic biopsy specimen culture is important to guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. Repeat histopathology, culture and FISH have not been previously reported after treatment of a cat with E coli-associated granulomatous colitis. Persistent clinical signs after treatment with oral marbofloxacin alongside a confirmed complete histologic remission support the presence of a concurrent chronic inflammatory enteropathy and pathology for the cat’s ongoing colitis.
Incentives and Girl Child Education in Ghana: An Examination of CAMFED’s Support Scheme on Enrollment, Retention and Progression in Garu-Tempane District
Authors: Akanbang Bernard Afiik Akanpabadai , Aneleru Constance , Aziabah Maxwell Akansina
Published: July 2023

Promoting female learning otherwise known as Girl Child Education continues to engage the attention of policy makers and practitioners in education and development generally; a situation greatly shaped by the myriad of obstacles militating against girl child education. In the current study, we probed the influence of CAMFED’s girl child education support scheme on school enrollment, retention and progression. We applied a reflexive evaluation approach anchored on a concurrent mixed methods research design in the study. Using a multistage sampling procedure, selected respondents were administered a combination of semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. We analyzed our data using multiple regression and descriptive statistics, supported by content analysis. The findings show that school enrollment and progression of the girl child increased substantially after the introduction of CAMFED’s intervention. However, gender-based perceptions continue to stifle girl child education, in spite of the behavior change component of the intervention scheme. The paper concludes that policy interventions should address the sociocultural bottlenecks inhibiting the education of the girl child if the gains made so far must be sustained. Going forward, studies could focus on measurement of performance as a function of girl child education support schemes beyond the basic level of education.
History and Development of Takaful Research: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Alam Azhar , Fianto Bayu Arie , Ratnasari Ririn Tri , Ahmi Aidi , Handayani Fransiska Putri
Published: July 2023

This paper explored a trend analysis related to takaful research from 1989 until March 2022. This research aims to determine: (1) the current growth and trends of publications in takaful; (2) the most productive contributors in takaful studies; (3) the highly-cited documents in takaful research; and (4) the essential keywords and themes involved in the takaful studies. The data was obtained through the Scopus database with the keywords “takaful,”“Islamic insurance,” or “sharia insurance.” The search resulted in 423 documents and became 356 documents after screening. The data has been exported and analyzed using tools such as Biblioshiny, VOSviewer, Publish or Perish (PoP) and Microsoft Excel. The results showed that most publications were in 2017 and 2020. The most significant contributor that published the most research documents were Syed Ahmad Salman by the author (21 publications), International Islamic University Malaysia by Institution (24,4%), English by language (97,5%), Malaysia by country (64,04%), Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business Research by title (22 publications). This study found the article “the cost efficiency of takaful insurance companies” written by Kader as the most cited publication. Moreover, based on the results of network visualization mapping, takaful research was divided into four main themes: risk management in the takaful industry and its relation with Islamic banks, efficiency in the takaful industry, and behavior of takaful customers, and development of takaful. This study recommended a systematic literature review on popular topics such as efficiency and family takaful for further studies.
Mind-Body Practice and Family Caregivers’ Subjective Well-Being: Findings From the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) Study
Authors: Bhattacharyya Kallol Kumar , Liu Yin , Gothe Neha P. , Fauth Elizabeth B.
Published: July 2023

Objectives: Informal caregiving has been associated with higher stress and lower levels of subjective well-being. Mind-body practices including yoga, tai chi, and Pilates also incorporate stress reducing activities. The current study aimed to examine the association between mind-body practice and subjective well-being among informal family caregivers. Methods: A sample of informal caregivers were identified in the Midlife in the United States study ( N = 506, M ±  SDage = 56 ± 11, 67% women). We coded mind-body practice into three categories, including regular practice (participating in one or more of them “a lot” or “often”), irregular (participating “sometimes” and “rarely”) and no practice (“never”). Subjective well-being was measured using the 5-item global life satisfaction scale and the 9-item mindfulness scale. We used multiple linear regression models to examine associations between mind-body practice and caregivers’ subjective well-being, controlling for covariates of sociodemographic factors, health, functional status, and caregiving characteristics. Results: Regular practice was associated with both better mindfulness-related well-being ( b = 2.26, p < .05) and better life satisfaction ( b = 0.43, p < .05), after controlling for covariates. Discussion: Future research should examine whether there is a selection effect of caregivers with higher well-being being more likely to choose these activities, and/or if mind-body practices are effective non-pharmacological interventions to improve family caregivers’ quality of life.
The impact of a pharmacist intervention on post-discharge hypnotic drug discontinuation in geriatric inpatients: a before-after study
Authors: Van der Linden Lorenz , Hias Julie , Liesenborghs Astrid , Walgraeve Karolien , Van Brantegem Pieter , Hellemans Laura , Milisen Koen , Tournoy Jos
Published: July 2023

Background

Chronic use of hypnotic agents is prevalent in older adults, who as a result are at increased risk for certain adverse events, such as day-time drowsiness and falls. Multiple strategies to discontinue hypnotics have been tested in geriatric patients, but evidence remains scarce. Hence, we aimed to investigate a multicomponent intervention to reduce hypnotic drug use in geriatric inpatients.

Methods

A before-after study was performed on the acute geriatric wards of a teaching hospital. The before group (= control group) received usual care, while intervention patients (= intervention group) were exposed to a pharmacist-led deprescribing intervention, comprising education of health care personnel, access to standardized discontinuation regimens, patient education and support of transitional care. The primary outcome was hypnotic drug discontinuation at one month after discharge. Secondary outcomes among others were sleep quality and hypnotic use at one and two weeks after enrolment and at discharge. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) upon inclusion, two weeks after enrolment and one month after discharge. Determinants for the primary outcome were identified using regression analysis.

Results

A total of 173 patients were enrolled, with 70.5% of patients taking benzodiazepines. Average age was 85 years (interquartile range 81–88.5) and 28.3% were male. A higher discontinuation rate at one month after discharge was observed in favour of the intervention (37.7% vs. 21.9%, p = 0.02281). No difference in sleep quality was found between both groups (p = 0.719). The average sleep quality was 8.74 (95% confidence interval (CI): 7.98–9.49) and 8.57 (95% CI: 7.75–9.39) in the control and intervention groups respectively. Determinants for discontinuation at one month were: the intervention (odds ratio (OR) 2.36, 95% CI: 1.14–4.99), fall on admission (OR 2.05; 95% CI: 0.95–4.43), use of a z-drug (OR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.23–1.22), PSQI score on admission (OR 1.08, 95% CI: 0.97–1.19) and discontinuation prior to discharge (OR 4.71, 95% CI: 2.26–10.17).

Conclusions

A pharmacist-led intervention in geriatric inpatients was associated with a reduction of hypnotic drug use one month after discharge, without any loss in sleep quality.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05521971 (retrospectively registered on 29th of August 2022).
COVID-19 cross-border case and contact tracing activities - experiences and lessons learnt, Germany, April-December 2020
Authors: Sperle Ida , Koppe Uwe , Lachmann Raskit , Vonderwolke Robert , Püschel Nadine , Litzba Nadine , Böhm Paula , Stauke Janina , Heck Annika , Baum Jonathan H.J. , Ghebreghiorghis Luam , Steffen Gyde , Rexroth Ute , an der Heiden Maria , Schneider Timm , Markus Inessa
Published: July 2023

Background

Interruption of transmission chains has been crucial in the COVID-19 response. The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) at the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) coordinated cross-border case and contact tracing activities at the national level by sharing data with German public health authorities (PHA) and other countries. Data on these activities were not collected in the national surveillance system, and thus were challenging to quantify. Our aim was to describe cross-border COVID-19 case and contact tracing activities including lessons learnt by PHA to adapt the procedures accordingly.

Methods

Case and contact tracing events were recorded using unique identifiers. We collected data on cases, contacts, dates of exposure and/or SARS-CoV-2 positive test results and exposure setting. We performed descriptive analyses of events from 06.04.-31.12.2020. We conducted interviews with PHA to understand experiences and lessons learnt, applying a thematic approach for qualitative analysis.

Results

From 06.04.-31.12.2020 data on 7,527 cross-border COVID-19 case and contact tracing activities were collected. Germany initiated communication 5,200 times, and other countries 2,327 times. Communication from other countries was most frequently initiated by Austria (n = 1,184, 50.9%), Switzerland (n = 338, 14.5%), and the Netherlands (n = 168, 7.2%). Overall, 3,719 events (49.4%) included information on 5,757 cases (median 1, range: 1–42), and 4,114 events (54.7%) included information on 13,737 contacts (median: 1, range: 1–1,872). The setting of exposure was communicated for 2,247 of the events (54.6%), and most frequently included private gatherings (35.2%), flights (24.1%) and work-related meetings (20.3%). The median time delay between exposure date and contact information receipt at RKI was five days. Delay between positive test result and case information receipt was three days. Main challenges identified through five interviews were missing data or delayed accessibility particularly from flights, and lack of clear and easy to use communication channels. More and better trained staff were mentioned as ideas for improving future pandemic response preparedness.

Conclusion

Cross-border case and contact tracing data can supplement routine surveillance but are challenging to measure. We need improved systems for cross-border event management, by improving training and communication channels, that will help strengthen monitoring activities to better guide public health decision-making and secure a good future pandemic response.