bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnic differences in reading and mathematical test performance in primary schools in England
Authors: Bessudnov Alexey
Published: April 2023

This study investigates ethnic differences in Key Stage 2 (KS2) reading and mathematical test scores among primary school pupils in state schools in England in 2007 and 2018. The aim is to assess the performance across ethnic categories and examine its evolution over the course of the study period. The analysis uses data from the National Pupil Database combining ethnicity information from school censuses with KS2 attainment data. KS2 reading and mathematical tests are taken by Year 6 pupils aged 10 to 11. Mean test scores are compared across ethnic categories, while the method of relative distribution is employed to evaluate performance in each ethnic category relative to the White British across the entire distribution of test scores. Between 2007 and 2018, the reading and maths test scores of British Bangladeshi, Black African, and Pakistani pupils improved relative to the White British group. In 2018, British Bangladeshi and Black African pupils performed at a similar or slightly higher level compared to their White British peers. The advantage in test scores in the two higher performing categories, British Indian and Chinese, further increased. Attainment in the other White category remained similar to the White British group. The test scores for the Black Caribbean and Mixed White and Black Caribbean categories tended to be concentrated in the lower part of the distribution. In 2018, the proportion of mixed and non-White pupils remained largely constant throughout the reading test score distribution, while in maths, a higher proportion of mixed and non- White pupils were found among high achievers compared to other parts of the distribution. The paper proposes potential explanations for these differences, which are related to the volume and characteristics of immigration to England.
DISINFORMATION ‘GATECRASHES’ TOURISM: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY
Authors: Vasist Pramukh Nanjundaswamy , Krishnan Satish
Published: April 2023

Disinformation poses a formidable threat to the tourism industry, but empirical studies remain limited. Recognizing this escalating crisis, this study undertakes a theoretically grounded cross-country investigation of political disinformation and its crippling consequences on the travel and tourism sector. While the pre-pandemic analysis from 2018 constituting 160 countries demonstrates the impact of foreign disinformation on the sector’s performance, a supplemental analysis from 2021 comprising 117 countries highlights domestic disinformation emerging as a greater threat over disinformation from foreign operatives. Qualitative insights are presented for specific configurations. The study overcomes theoretical vagueness around disinformation as a phenomenon and provides a robust theoretical foundation anchored on agenda-building and soft power theories for the understanding of disinformation and its impact on tourism performance.
Mortuary Excavation and Recording Approaches
Authors: Nugent Selin Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Mortuary archaeology examines the treatment of the dead, consisting of the study of human remains as well their funerary landscapes, monuments, and material assemblages. Human societies respond to and treat death in diverse ways between cultures and throughout time, which provides archaeologists with the opportunity to gain insight into the funerary rituals, the relationship between the living and the dead, and the social, political, and economic organization of the populations of study. This entry reviews excavation and recording techniques in mortuary archaeology as well as contemporary topics of importance in this field.
Почему рейтинги не должны использоваться для оценки исследований и исследователей? (Why Shouldn't University Rankings Be Used to Evaluate Research and Researchers?)
Authors: Kochetkov Dmitry
Published: April 2023

В данном исследовании мы адресовали вопрос, почему рейтинги не должны использоваться для оценки исследований. Для ответа на этот вопрос мы проанализировали четыре группы литературы (академическая и неакадемическая, англоязычная и русскоязычная литература). Анализ показал, что большинство исследователей сходятся во мнении, что рейтинги не должны использоваться для оценки исследований. Тем не менее они все еще продолжают использоваться для этих целей прямо или косвенно, хотя последние события позволяют надеяться на изменение ситуации в скором будущем. We address the question of why global university rankings should not be used for research evaluation. To answer this question, we analyze four groups of literature (academic vs non-academic literature, English-language vs Russian-language literature). The analysis shows that most researchers agree that rankings should not be used to evaluate research. However, they are still used for these purposes directly or indirectly, although recent developments give us hope for a change in the situation in the near future.
Who Didn’t Answer the Census Question on Gender Identity?
Authors: Carl Noah
Published: April 2023

The 2021 Census in England and Wales was the very first to include a question on gender identity. The question was voluntary and a sizeable percentage of the population declined to answer it. In fact, more than ten times as many people declined to answer the question than indicated they had a different gender identity. If fear of revealing one’s true gender identity on the census form was a common motivation for non-responders, the census will have underestimated the proportion of the population that has a different gender identity. Here I critically evaluate this possibility.
Endoscopic Ear Surgery in Dhulikhel Hospital: A decade of Experience
Authors: Shrestha B. L.
Published: April 2023

Endoscopic ear surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in Dhulikhel hospital. In the past eleven years, there have been different endoscopic ear surgeries performed with a very good outcome. The main benefit of endoscopic ear surgery is; to let the surgeon see better, proceed with the surgery through the trans-canal, teaching and training of the students. There are some drawbacks of endoscopic ear surgery like the one-handed technique and learning curve. With repeated practice and the help of motion parallax, the trainee can overcome the drawback of the procedure.
Massive Hemoptysis and Pulmonary Thromboembolism in a Patient with Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Therapeutic Conundrum Managed with Bronchial Artery Embolization
Authors: Vaidya N. , Karmacharya R. M. , Vaidya S. , Bade S. , Bade S. , Paudel K. , Kandel G. , Thapa P. , Maharjan R. , Duwal S. , Karki Y.
Published: April 2023

Hemoptysis is a crucial entity taking into account its morbidity and mortality. Pulmonary tuberculosis is the leading cause for massive hemoptysis in our part of the world, which if left untreated may be life threatening. We present a case of a 37-year-old male patient with pulmonary tuberculosis with concurrent pulmonary thromboembolism presenting with massive hemoptysis, which was successfully managed with Bronchial Artery Embolization. This case represents that this measure can be a viable therapeutic choice for a patient with a severe life-threatening hemoptysis, particularly when other treatment options are unavailable or ineffective.
Appendiceal Neuroendocrine Tumor Mimicking Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Gautam N. , Makaju R. , Basnet D. , Lama B. , Maharjan P. B. , Dahal S.
Published: April 2023

Appendiceal carcinoids are the most frequent tumors arising from the appendix, comprising between 32 and 57% of all the appendiceal tumors. The gross appearance of the appendix showed perforation at the tip with 30 ml of peri-appendicular collection. On histopathological examination, carcinoid tumor on the tip of appendix was found with tumor cells arranged in tubules, acini and nests infiltrating the muscularis propria and sub serosa. Perineural and vascular invasion was not seen. Immunohistochemistry for Synaptophysin was positive with Ki-67 labelling index of 2%. We present a case of appendiceal neuroendocrine tumor with the chief complaint of acute appendicitis.
Comprehensive Costing of Support Services for Vulnerable Populations: A Case Study
Authors: Farrell Susan J. , Aubry Tim D.
Published: April 2023

Abstract: Comprehensive costing of human services remains an understudied issue in evaluating health and social services. Evaluations done to date have either considered only some of the services offered to clients or restricted the examination to costs borne by programs. Most studies to date have been conducted in the United States and Britain, countries that have different systems of health and social services than Canada. This article presents a case study of the use of a “comprehensive costing approach” in a Canadian context. The approach examines the full range of costs of health and social services and other supports associated with assisting a person with severe and persistent mental illness to live in the community. The case study represents a pilot program (funded by the Ministry of Health in Ontario) to provide specialized support services for a consumer to live in the community. Cost comparisons developed around the initiation of the pilot program in the present evaluation examined the consumer’s initial months in the program and a period prior to entering the program when the consumer was receiving standard care in the community, including a period of hospitalization. Costs were compared according to different domains such as accommodation, social benefits, and health and social services. Perspectives of program planners on the impact of costing evaluations for a case study are provided, followed by limitations and future directions for the methodology.
How Do You Evaluate a Network? A Canadian Child and Youth Health Network Experience
Authors: Popp Janice K. , L’Heureux Laura N. , Dolinski Carly M. , Adair Carol E. , Tough Suzanne C. , Casebeer Ann L. , Douglas-England Kathleen L. , Morrison Catherine C.
Published: April 2023

Abstract: Over the past decade, approximately 20 child and youth health networks have been initiated in Canada. The value of any network depends on its effectiveness in achieving stated goals; however, description and measurement of network effectiveness is challenging, given the complex multi-sectoral and/or multidisci-plinary relationships involved and the relative dearth of evaluation methods specific to networks. Since its inception in 2001, the Southern Alberta Child and Youth Health Network (SACYHN) has reviewed the network evaluation literature and developed and implemented an evaluation framework. This article describes key findings from the literature on networks and their evaluation, and the experience and learning from network evaluation activities conducted by SACYHN. These may inform evaluation efforts in other networks or similar inter-organizational initiatives.
Program Evaluation in the Government of Canada: Plus ça change …
Authors: Segsworth R. V.
Published: April 2023

Abstract: This article describes the evolution of evaluation policy and practice from 1977, when the first policy on program evaluation was issued by Treasury Board, to the current state of evaluation in the Government of Canada. It discusses the changing nature of evaluation policy, resources, and conceptions of the function as well as a number of concerns about federal evaluation that have been expressed during this period. The article concludes by providing suggestions that, if implemented, might enhance the status and role of evaluation in the federal government.
Les coûts de la non-évaluation des politiques de l’éducation au Québec
Authors: Bélanger Pierre W. , Gosselin Lynda , Umbriaco Michel
Published: April 2023

Abstract: Based on concrete examples, the authors demonstrate the gap between research and educational policy in Québec. Educational choices are too often based on ideological fads, even though intellectual, economic and ethical reasons point to the need for rigorous evidence-based strategies, specifically for prior testing and systematic evaluations during and after policy implementation. This article focuses on the wealth and relevance of research needed for developing sound educational policy — policy that avoids the pitfalls of demagogy and common sense and does not leave the achievement of results and their interpretation to chance.
The Inclusion of Stakeholders in Evaluation: Benefits and Drawbacks
Authors: Morris Daniel B.
Published: April 2023

Abstract: The current trend in evaluation research is to include stakeholders in the evaluation process. Central to this trend is the belief that stakeholder involvement empowers the stakeholders, increases the utilization of results, and increases the validity of the evaluation. This article examines both the theoretical foundation for this belief and its empirical support. Conditions under which these benefits are realized are analyzed and compared to situations that fail to gain these benefits.
Accreditation Approaches for Professional Education Programs: Toward Best Practice
Authors: Chiavaroli Neville , Prescott-Clements Linda , Nicholls Jordan , Mitchell Pru , Reid Katharine
Published: April 2023

Accreditation has a central role in the quality assurance of professional education programs, but research on the effectiveness of different models of accreditation is limited. The purpose of this study was to rapidly appraise the evidence for the effectiveness, impact, and feasibility of different accreditation approaches, in order to inform best practices for the accreditation of professional education programs. The study focused on accreditation for programs that produce practice-ready graduates, including for veterinary programs. The authors searched several databases for articles published from 2000 to 2020, using search terms identified during a scoping phase, and applied a “rapid review” methodology in line with contextual, time, and resource requirements. Relevant articles that were classed as empirical or conceptual were included in the study, while papers appraised as solely commentaries or descriptive were excluded from the evidence base. The full-text review included 32 articles. We identified a clear transition in the literature from input- and process-based models (pre- and early 2000s) to outcomes-based models (in the 2000s and early 2010s). Continuous quality improvement and targeted models (including risk-based and thematic) represent more recent approaches in accreditation practice. However, as noted by other scholars, we identified limited empirical evidence for the relative effectiveness of different accreditation approaches in professional education, although evidence for the more recent accreditation approaches is emerging. In terms of best practice in view of the current lack of definitive evidence for the adoption of any specific model of accreditation, we argue that accrediting authorities adopt a contextual approach to accreditation that includes clearly articulating the purpose and focus of their regulatory activities, and selecting and implementing accreditation methods that are consistent with their underlying principles.
Is Bitcoin an Alternative Investment Asset? An Econometric Investigation of China and the USA
Authors: Yaqoob Tanzeela , Akbar Hooria
Published: April 2023

This paper evaluated Bitcoin ﬁnancial and economic behaviour by using the econometric model on Bitcoin rate of returns compared to the alternatives assets like precious metals, stock market, and exchange rate risk. The study employed the various Quantile Regression models to observe the hedging ability of Bitcoin under bearish and bullish scenarios. The daily data of China and the USA have been collected, from July 18, 2010, to August 31, 2021. The result indicates that under diﬀerent market phenomena, Bitcoin holds hedge and safe-haven asset properties against precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. Bitcoin can be used as an alternative to money during the currency devaluation against the US Dollar since it holds a hedge and safe- haven properties against S&P 500 Index and SSEC Index. The study elaborates the several implications for investors portfolios. Finally, the study draws the attention of policymakers towards the legalisation of Bitcoin as a currency alternative considering its eﬃcient performance under diﬀerent economic conditions, supported by detailed theoretical and empirical analyses.
Stay or not to Stay: An Analysis of Diversity Management and Abusive Leadership Relationship with Turnover Intention
Authors: Arif Muhammad , Ahmed Muhammad Naeem
Published: April 2023

With the emergence of economic globalisation, HR executives strive to provide a fairer working environment as there is an unprecedented shift of increased participation of people with diﬀerent demographic backgrounds, genders and belief systems at workplaces around the globe. Simultaneously, there has been a tremendous rise in the occurrences of abusive leadership behaviours leading to increased turnover ratios. Hence, this study aims to investigate the eﬀects of abusive leadership and diversity management practices on turnover intention.   This study data has been collected from the employees of pharmaceutical companies based in Karachi, Pakistan using a non- probability  purposive sampling technique.  Data  was taken from  (n = 403) participants. The results show a signiﬁcant negative relationship between diversity management and turnover intention and a signiﬁcant positive relationship between abusive leadership and turnover intention. The results also indicate that job satisfaction mediates the relationship of both diversity management and abusive leadership with turnover intention. The study emphasises that organisations should consciously channel their resources eﬀectively into creating an all-inclusive environment to cater the psychological needs of a diverse workforce. The study also implicated that organisational leadership should pay special attention to ensure that they treat their subordinates fairly across the board, as the behaviour of the leaders has far-reaching eﬀects on the performance, productivity and psychological well-being of the employees.
Additive Manufacturing in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Vendra Lakshmi , Gladkikh Mikhail
Published: April 2023

This article focuses on the technologies and applications of additive manufacturing (AM) in the oil and gas industry. It then presents the challenges of AM and the oil and gas industry. The article provides a detailed description of the critical steps in the AM process chain, including part selection, design optimization, and process planning, control, and inspection. Qualification and certification standardization is discussed, as is a commitment to reduce the carbon footprint of the manufacturing sector through AM. It ends with the future outlook of AM in the oil and gas industry.
Large-Scale Additive Manufacturing for Automated Construction—An Overview
Authors: Kazemian Ali , Giwa Ilerioluwa , Ekenel Mahmut
Published: April 2023

Construction-scale additive manufacturing, also known as construction three-dimensional printing (C3DP), has received significant attention as a technology that could transform the construction industry by offering a highly automated construction process for various applications. This article presents an overview of the current developments in C3DP as well as future prospects and discusses the technical and regulatory barriers to its widespread adoption by the construction industry. It also presents a detailed discussion on construction-scale additive manufacturing technologies.
Environmental Impact, Health, and Safety for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Rafi Khalid , Bates Paul , Richard Francois
Published: April 2023

This article provides an overview of the concepts of environmental, health, and safety (EH&S) risk incidents, then discusses these concepts relative to additive manufacturing (AM): the multiple intrants, process parameters, and equipment, as well as the resulting products and wastes. The article discusses additive manufacturing hazards, which are broken down into material hazards, equipment/process hazards, and facility hazards. The environmental impact of AM and the development of EH&S standards for AM also are covered in the article.
Data Security in Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Yampolskiy Mark , Gatlin Jacob
Published: April 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) security is considered an integral part of several broader security fields, including supply chain security and critical infrastructure security. This article presents a general guide to the types of data and locations of data as they may exist in a typical AM-using organization. It discusses the following threat categories: technical data theft, sabotage, illegal part manufacturing, and data infiltration and exfiltration. The article also presents a detailed discussion on countermeasures against threat categories.
INFORMATION POTENTIAL OF OFFICIAL WEBSITES OF THE MUSEUMS OF CHERKASY REGION AS A SOURCE FOR STUDYING HISTORY OF THE NATIVE REGION AT HISTORY LESSONS
Authors: Kutsenko Serhii
Published: April 2023

The article analyzes the peculiarities of organization of museum-pedagogical activities in institutions of general secondary education in conditions of mixed education. Raising a sense of patriotism and active citizenship in the younger generation is now recognized as a general national problem. In modern conditions in our country the requirements for education and training of the younger generation are growing. Thus, one of the most important pedagogical tasks is to educate children in love for Ukraine, respectful attitude towards the family, respect for national traditions and customs, the State and native language, and national values of Ukrainian people. Museum pedagogy considers the museum as a place where feelings are nurtured. The museum does not “illustrate” history, does not teach history. It forms a personʼs personal emotional attitude to one or the other historical facts. The main purpose of the museumʼs existence is to serve people; it provides visitors with a symbolic access to the space of culture. The author reveals the meaning of the terms “museum pedagogy” and “mixed learning”, outlines the possibilities of the teacherʼs use of museum tours for teaching and educating students, determines the potential of Internet resources of museums of Cherkasy region in the context of digitalization of school education and introduction of virtual educational technologies. Especially valuable for the work of a history teacher are the virtual tours presented on the official Internet resources of museums and on other tourist-related sites, which provide an opportunity to work with the museum environment both during lessons and in extracurricular activities.The author emphasizes the fact that the representation of the museum on the Internet allows free access to the objects of historical and cultural heritage for a mass audience. The number of visits to relevant museum Internet resources is increasing significantly. Representation of museums on the Internet is the most effective communication channel for informing about news and events in the institution and allows to interest the younger generation (“raised” on the Internet), to study the history of their native land.

Keywords: museum pedagogy; site; virtual tour; Internet network; virtual space; communication; reserve; museums.
DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES OF SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAMS IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Authors: Shumaieva Svitlana
Published: April 2023

The article analyzes the developmental stages of special education teacher training programs in the United States of America. It was founded that for many years there were no licensing requirements or programs to train teachers to work with children with special educational needs. The civil rights movement, legislative revisions, and court cases changes in special education teacher training and service delivery models for students with disabilities. The article describes three eras of teacher training each differed from the previous one by improving conditions for children with disabilities. The first teacher training programs were started in the early 1950s and were intended for special educational and clinical institutions for children with speech and hearing impairments, mental retardation, and deaf students. In 1958, The Education of Mentally Retarded Children Act was passed and the practice of training special education teachers in colleges and universities began. In 1975, Congress passed the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. In the mid-1970s, competency-based teacher education began to operate, but scientists came to the conclusion that this practice is too mechanical and does not cover all the nuances of teacher training. In the 1990s, the Learning Behavior Specialist-1 Licensure was introduced to serve the majority of students with disabilities in state schools and the quality of teacher training was improved. As for today, every student with limited educational opportunities can be fully or partially included in general education institutions or a special school. The decision is made by the committee that develops the Individualized Education Plan or the 504 Plan.

Keywords: special educational needs; inclusive environment; inclusion; child with special educational needs; inclusive education; state standards; special teachers; certification; licensing requirements.
An Appraisal of Participant Observation Methodology
Authors: Shahshahani Soheila
Published: April 2023

All different sciences are defined in a specific way. It is not enough to define anthropology as a science that has studied human beings at all times and all places. It is the methodology of anthropology that is unique and increasingly appreciated by other fields. With the spread of COVID-19, as displacement became a problem, for the researcher and for those s/he had to be with, this methodology was temporarily put into question: social media or simply telephone contacts to gather data was used. The collection of articles in this issue reconfirms that it is through participant observation that the researcher can diligently and exhaustively study a topic or shine new light upon well-studied topics. Our topics are varied this time, some papers are from different fields, our methodology remains the same.
The Invisible Inhabitants of a Cultural Limbo
Authors: Sevgi Mehmet Ali
Published: April 2023

This qualitative study, based on interviews and participant observation, is an effort to understand the religious identities of Turkish Shi'is (Ja'faris) living in Igdir by examining their rituals, their social and cultural lives, and their relations with Iran. The local population of Igdir consists of Shi'i Turks and Sunni Kurds. While the Turkish Shi'is living in the region meet on common ground with the majority of the country with their ethnic identities, they differ in their religious identities. It is possible to see these differences in the sociocultural life of the city, its religious rituals, and its multifaceted relations with Iran, the center of Shi'ism. The results of this research, which spanned a long period and included people from different parts of society, may constitute a basis for the further discussion of some points about the Ja'faris living in Igdir.
Filthy Old People
Authors: Hertzog Esther , Lev Assaf
Published: April 2023

Based on an ethnographic study the article explores ageism in the context of gyms in Israel. It questions perceptions of ‘old age’ as having self-evident existence. As bodily characteristics are prominent in the social surrounding of the gym, this context serves as a convenient sphere for examining ageism. The findings reveal that fitness activity is perceived by all gym participants as serving to mitigate physical fragility. They also demonstrate that the attitude toward older exercisers shifts from encouragement to contempt and disregard. However, significant differences were found, depending on the contexts and situations, the specific sites, the extent of social integration, and other characteristics.
Limestone nanoplankton of the Upper Triassic - Lower Jurassicsediments of the South of Ukraine
Authors:   Institute of geological sciences of the NAS of Ukraine, MATLAY LIDIIA
Published: April 2023

Описані й зображені стратиграфічно важливі та найбільш поширені види вапняковогонанопланктону тріасових і нижньоюрських відкладів таврійської серії Гірського Криму, які вперше були знайдені на цій території. Коколіти були добуті з керну свердловиниНовоолексіївська-1р, Зуйська-30 та відслонення розрізу Петропавлівського кар’єру.
Investment analysis of companies for understanding the competitiveness of a municipality of Ribnica
Authors: Bobek Vito , But Miha , Horvat Tatjana
Published: April 2023

The authors explain how policy and development represent a framework for regional development. In the empirical part, the authors analyzed the economic development and competitiveness of the municipality based on an online survey previously distributed to active economic operators in the municipality. The research examined the vitality of companies, their orientation and compliance with new EU guidelines, their investment activities, their sources of funding, their ability to obtain state subsidies, and their cooperation with local and regional authorities. The paper shows that the municipality of Ribnica ranks in the top half of the municipalities based on its development and competitiveness.
Evaluation of financial situation of Slovak businesses after 2020
Authors: Belanova Katarína
Published: April 2023

The aim of the article is to evaluate the financial situation of businesses in the Slovak Republic after 2020 through selected economic indicators. We focus on small and medium – sized enterprises. We used available secondary data to characterize the development of basic economic indicators describing the economic situation of businesses. Moreover, we surveyed whether the businesses managed to cope with the increased inflation. According to our findings, the unfavourable economic situation caused by the pandemic had a negative impact on the creation of added value in the business sector in 2020. In 2021, there was a revival of economic activity, which was reflected in the increased creation of added value, as well as in the positive development of other economic indicators. As for the impact of inflation, businesses were on average able to transfer rising costs into sales.
Can exercise-based interventions reverse gray and white matter abnormalities in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain? A systematic review
Authors: Cuyul-Vásquez Iván , Ponce-Fuentes Felipe , Salazar Joaquín , Fuentes Jorge , Araya-Quintanilla Felipe
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND: Recent evidence has suggested that reversal of gray or white matter abnormalities could be a criterion of recovery in patients with chronic pain. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of exercise-based interventions in reversing gray and white matter abnormalities in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. METHODS: An electronic search was performed in the MEDLINE (Via PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, LILACS, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, PEDro, and CENTRAL databases. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) including patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain, which assessed the change in gray and white matter abnormalities after exercise-based interventions were selected. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias II tool. RESULTS: Four RCTs were included (n= 386). Three studies showed reversal of abnormalities with exercise-based interventions compared to control groups. The reversal was observed in the gray matter volume in the medial orbital prefrontal cortex and in the supplementary motor area of patients with osteoarthritis, in the hippocampus, insula, amygdala and thalamus in fibromyalgia patients. Furthermore, in patients with chronic spinal pain, reversal was observed in the gray matter thickness of the frontal middle caudal cortex and in the caudate, putamen and thalamus gray matter volume. CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of exercise-based interventions for reversing gray and white matter abnormalities in patients with chronic pain. Further studies are still needed in this field.
Multidisciplinary team-based management approach for secondary-care patients with severe and persistent low back pain: A mixed-method feasibility trial
Authors: Nim Casper Glissmann , Hansen Anders , Backmann Tina , Ziegler Dorthe Schøler , O’Neill Søren
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND: Persistent and severe low back pain is challenging to treat. Multidisciplinary care with systematic follow-up may be more effective than usual care. However, such a model has yet to be developed and tested. OBJECTIVE: Our objectives were to develop and test the feasibility of a three-month multidisciplinary intervention with systematic follow-up in a specialized hospital spine center for patients with severe and persistent low back pain. METHODS: Using the Medical Research Council and National Institute for Health and Care Research framework for the development and testing of complex interventions, we developed a multidisciplinary intervention with systematic follow-up and tested its feasibility, using a-priori-determined outcomes during three months for 24 patients seen at a regional diagnostic spine center unit. As part of the evaluation, we conducted semi-structured interviews with participants and a focus-group interview with clinicians. RESULTS: Of the 24 patients included, only 17 completed the course of care and provided complete data for feasibility assessment. We failed to reach our a-priori feasibility outcomes, had difficulty with inclusion, and participants did not find the intervention effective or satisfactory. CONCLUSIONS: The intervention was not feasible as barriers existed on multiple levels (e.g., clinical, administrative, and patient). Excessive study moderations must be made before the intervention is feasible in a randomized trial.
The effects of large-volume leukapheresis on hemoglobin, platelet and coagulation in patients with hyperleukocytic leukemia
Authors: Liu Lingling , Chen Lin , Zhao Caihan , Fan Ruifang , Tang Qing , Yuan Qing , Du Wei , Liu Xiangfu
Published: April 2023

INTRODUCTION: This study retrospectively analyzed a total of 86 leukapheresis treatments in 55 patients with hyperleukocytic leukemia (HLL). METHODS: In the leukapheresis treatments, the monitoring collection (MNC) program in COBE spectra continuous flow centrifuge (CFC) for blood component separator was used. RESULTS: In this study, the white blood cell (WBC) suspension volume collected in leukapheresis treatment were 870.72±208.40 mL, and significantly larger than that reported in previous study. Compared with before leukapheresis, there were no difference in patient with HLL on the peripheral blood platelet (PLT) count and hemoglobin (HGB) levels. The index plasma fibrinogen (FIB) concentration was slightly reduced by leukapheresis, however, it did not affect a lot the maintenance of normal hemostatic function in patients with HLL. DISCUSSION: Our data provided evidences that large-volume leukapheresis had no obvious effects on HGB level and coagulation functions in patient with HLL. So large-volume leukapheresis by CFC could be widely used in clinic.
E-spect@tor for performing arts
Authors: Chantraine Braillon Cécile , Idmhand Fatiha
Published: April 2023

In the framework of DiMPAH (Digital Methods Platform for Arts and Humanities), an online course “e-spect@tor for performing arts” has been designed to make available digital methods created by the Digital Humanities project “The spectator’s school” to the scientific community and the students. The main aim of this course is to train learners to analyse performative works from video recordings. Those analysis are notably achieved with the use of the digital tool e-spect@tor developed by “The spectator’s school” to annotate live art videos with different features that allows to study performative aspects. While “Unit I” is focused on introducing the “Performing arts”, “Unit II” is dedicated to the analysis of case studies proposed to serve as models. The course can be used on e-learning and in a hybrid teaching format through a possible course structure and aims as described and tested with students. Furthermore, by using digital technology, this course can be at the forefront of new stories for Europe in terms of pedagogy as it trains to enable new media literacy and to analyse any activity that is staged such as political discourses, public meetings, or interviews.
Design of delay compensation algorithm in remote auction network for digital art works
Authors: Wu Min , Chun-Wei Lin Jerry
Published: April 2023

Aiming at the problem of delay and packet loss in current remote network, a delay compensation algorithm for high-speed network is studied and applied to the remote auction of digital art works. High-speed network delay mainly includes: transmission processing delay, waiting delay, transmission delay, and reception processing delay. The delay model of high-speed network is designed by using a time division multiple access protocol. Based on the high-speed network delay model, the Kalman filter is used to design the high-speed network delay control algorithm to maintain the high-speed network delay. At the same time, the round-trip delay compensation algorithm based on link delay is used to compensate the high-speed network delay. The experimental results show that the proposed method compensates the delay of more than 235 ms, and the packet loss rate of high-speed network is only 0.59%, and the throughput reaches 241 Mbit/s, which validates the algorithm can effectively compensate the delay of high-speed network and reduce the packet loss rate of high-speed network.
Preliminary data from effects of knowledge translation methods on VR counselors providing pre-ETS to youth with significant disabilities: A brief report
Authors: Lau Stephanie J. , McKelvey Susan
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND: Passage of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014 placed an emphasis on increasing student education and preparation for employment for students as young as 14. When Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) was awarded a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) to establish a Rehabilitation and Research Training Center (RRTC) on employment for transition-age youth with disabilities, one of the studies focused on knowledge translation methods to develop and deliver a toolkit to assist VR counselors (and others) providing pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS) to students 14 to 16 years of age with significant disabilities. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this practice brief is to share preliminary findings from Phase 1 and Phase 2 of VCU-RRTC on Employment of Transition-Age Youth with Disabilities’ study, Effects of Knowledge Translation Methods on Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors Providing Pre-ETS to Youth with Significant Disabilities 14–16 years of age. METHOD: To prepare this practice brief, program staff conducted a thematic analysis of interview findings from Phase 1 and reviewed program materials from Phase 2 to identify preliminary observations. Program materials included instructor case notes, student reports, student pre- and post-tests, interviews with families, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and school staff after instruction. RESULTS: From Phase 1, VR counselors, educators, and families desired early exposure to career exploration and felt that interest-driven experiences and education was generally lacking. From Phase 2, it was observed that lesson content needed to be relevant and engaging to younger students, who often had a very abstract understanding of work and limited self-awareness about career interests, personal interests, and strengths. CONCLUSION: Preliminary findings from Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the study underscore the desire and need to increase collaboration between educators, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and families. Observations from Phase 2 demonstrate the value of Pre-ETS instruction to younger students with significant disabilities, and how increased collaboration can prepare students for employment through early career exploration, workplace readiness skills, and community based work experiences.
Development of a community life engagement fidelity scale to assess and improve day services and supports
Authors: Sulewski Jennifer Sullivan , Lyons Oliver , Kwan Ngai
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND: Despite an increase in supported employment, a large and growing number people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) still participate in non-work day services. Quality day services that lead to community life engagement (CLE) play an important role in both leading to and complementing competitive integrated employment. OBJECTIVE: Building off guideposts developed in previous research, we aimed to develop and test a new instrument, the CLE Fidelity Scale, for service providers to assess whether their day services and supports are well-designed to support CLE. METHODS: The research involved four steps: item generation based on existing instruments, a self-advocate review panel and Delphi panel for content adequacy assessment, piloting the instrument with service providers, and internal consistency assessment and factor analysis of the pilot data. RESULTS: The end product of these four activities was an 18-item CLEFS that loaded onto three components. The CLEFS also displayed strong content validity (CVR over 0.5 for all items) and interrater reliability (average α = .837). CONCLUSION: The CLEFS can be a useful tool for service providers and state agencies seeking to assess and improve day services and supports.
Achieving competitive, customized employment through specialized services for Veterans with spinal cord injuries (ACCESS-Vets): A randomized clinical trial protocol
Authors: Ottomanelli Lisa , Smith Tammy Jorgensen , Cotner Bridget A. , Toyinbo Peter A , Venkatachalam Hari H. , McDonald Scott , Goetz Lance , Cessna-Palas Julie , Mendelson Samantha , Dillahunt-Aspillaga Christina J. , Cruz Areana , McCauley Liron , Pierce Bradford S.
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND: To date, the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model is the only vocational intervention that has been rigorously studied and shown to be effective with Veterans with spinal cord injury (SCI). Customized Employment (CE) is an innovative vocational intervention with promising results among people with disabilities which has yet to be tested in persons with SCI. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a Customized Employment (CE) intervention adapted for SCI rehabilitation is more effective than the standard care (IPS) for helping Veterans with SCI obtain and maintain employment. METHODS: A 4-year, 2-site randomized clinical trial (RCT) with concurrent mixed methods using an intent-to-treat (ITT) approach. The primary outcome is competitive integrated employment as defined by the Work Innovation and Opportunity Act. Secondary outcomes are employment indicators, quality of life (QOL), and participation. RESULTS: This is a methods paper so there are no results to present at this time. CONCLUSION: The proportion of Veterans who attain employment will be greater for the CE group than the IPS group and they will outperform the IPS group on other employment-related metrics (e.g., higher job satisfaction, wages, and retention). Employed Veterans will demonstrate significant improvements in self-sufficiency, QOL, and participation. Qualitative data obtained from interviews will assist with adaptation strategies and will identify barriers to implementing CE.
Synthesis and bio-activity of complex azo compounds: A review on formazans and its complexes
Authors: Singh Neetu , Sohal Harvinder Singh , Verma Meenakshi , Sharma Rajeev , Kaur Manvinder
Published: April 2023

Formazans are well-known complexing agents and form highly stable complexes with verity of metals that are useful for number of pharmaceutical applications. The activity profile of formazans and their complexes are huge that include antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-fertility, anti-tubercular, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-HIV, and anti-proliferative are among the biological activities covered by the formazans. The structures, synthesis, reactions, and spectral properties of formazans have been studied to highlight their potential applications in a variety of bioactive phenomena and analytical applications. The biological potential of the compounds will be greatly enhanced when substitution is carried out at R and R2. We observed that electron withdrawing groups at para position (if R, R1 & R2 = phenyl ring) are the best substitutions to achieve potent pharmacological activities.
Extended minimal enteral feeding and time to regain birth weight in extremely low-birth-weight infants
Authors: Alturk M.R. , Alkhdr M.O. , Abo Zeed M.S. , Singh K.
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND: Minimal enteral feeding after birth has been developed as a strategy to enhance the functional maturation of the gastrointestinal tract. This study aimed to examine the relationship between the duration of minimal enteral feeding and time to regain birth weight in extremely low-birth-weight infants. METHODS: This retrospective study included all extremely low-birth-weight infants born between January 2018 and December 2020. Infants with major congenital anomalies and conditions requiring surgery and those who died or received palliative care in the first 10 days of life were excluded from the analysis. Minimal enteral feeding courses were categorized as extended if the feeding was continued for > 72 hours and short if the feeding was < 72 hours. The primary measured outcome was the time taken to regain birth weight. RESULTS: Of 217 study infants, 180 received an extended minimal enteral feeding for > 72 h. The median time to regain birth weight was not significantly different between the extended and short minimal enteral feeding groups, median (IQR) was 10 (7–13) versus 8 (6–11), respectively (p = 0.15). Extended minimal enteral feeding is associated with a significant increase in the mean duration of the total parenteral nutrition, (21.3±10 versus 17.2±9.3 days; p = 0.021). Infants with prolonged minimal enteral feeding courses experienced non-significantly higher levels of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and retinopathy of prematurity. CONCLUSIONS: Extended minimal enteral feeding in extremely low-birth-weight infants may not affect the time taken to regain birth weight.
Parent experiences of a remote patient monitoring program enabling early discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit with nasogastric tube feeding
Authors: Caruso C.G. , Warren J.B. , Carney P.A.
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND: This exploratory study examined parents’ experiences with “Growing at Home” (G@H), a remote patient monitoring program for stable infants discharged from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with continued need for nasogastric tube feeding. METHODS: We used classical content analysis to identify and refine emergent themes from 13 semi-structured key informant interviews. RESULTS: The primary emergent theme was the desire to return to normalcy, which was expressed as a primary motivator for participating in G@H. Parents reported G@H assisted them in transitioning from the NICU’s highly medicalized setting to establishing a new normal with incorporation of their infant into their lives and families. Parental preparation is important, as some parents experienced challenges that indicate the program may not be suitable for all families. CONCLUSIONS: Parental experiences offer insight into benefits and challenges of early discharge from the NICU and highlight opportunities to support families beginning in the NICU and as they transition home.