bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Firm Restructuring System in Korea: A Comparison of Firm Performance Between Policy Finance Institutes and Private Banks
Authors: Shin Hochul
Published: July 2021

The performance of firm restructuring led by policy finance institutes in Korea was analysed using quantitative methods. Firm performance in terms of the probability of graduating from the restructuring process, profitability and financial soundness for restructuring firms managed by policy finance institutes was compared against those managed by private banks. Data analysis using the propensity score matching (PSM) and Heckman models found the following characteristics in the firm restructuring led by policy finance institutes in Korea.

First, the probability of graduating from restructuring was statistically significantly lower in the firms managed by policy finance institutes. Second, the strength of restructuring in terms of material and human resources since the start of restructuring was statistically significantly stronger in firms managed by policy finance institutes. However, whether the policy finance institutes were the main creditors since the start of the restructuring process significantly reduced the firms’ sales. Nevertheless, it did not affect their profitability in a statistically significant manner.

Considering that relatively more financial resources are injected into the restructuring firms managed by policy finance institutes, it can be concluded that the firm restructuring led by policy finance institutes is less efficient.
Determinants of Off-Farm Labour Participation and Time Allocation: Double-Hurdle Results in the Case of Fiji
Authors: Xing Zhongwei , Gounder Rukmani
Published: July 2021

This study analyses the determinants of off-farm labour participation decisions of the agricultural households in Fiji. The analysis of joint decision to participate and the amount of time allocated to work is undertaken by using the double-hurdle model based on the Household Income and Expenditure Survey 2008–2009. The results show that household head status, age, marital status, ethnicity and education influence off-farm participation decisions of the farm households. On the households’ time allocation decisions towards off-farm income-generating activities, the family size, remittances, income and several types of agricultural outputs influence the labour supply decisions. These households and farm characteristics are important in creating better returns, reducing risks from land constraints and natural disasters, managing income and consumption uncertainties and providing quality farm inputs. The results highlight some important policy implications that would help address low agricultural productivity and render increased support for off-farm income earning activities.
State and territory legislative vulnerabilities and why an Indigenous Voice must be constitutionally enshrined
Authors: Larkin Dani , Rigney Sophie
Published: July 2021

This article sets out the background to what has occurred since the issuing of the Uluru Statement from the Heart and provides an overview of the Indigenous Voice Co-Design Interim Report and its Voice design options. In doing so, we discuss the possible progression of Local and Regional Voices and other sub-national legislation on First Nations issues. We analyse how those efforts might be limited and/or extinguished if a First Nations Voice is not constitutionally enshrined when we consider the relationship and legislative powers of the Commonwealth, state, and territory parliaments.
They can’t treat you well under abusive supervision: Investigating the impact of job satisfaction and extrinsic motivation on healthcare employees
Authors: Siyal Saeed , Saeed Maria , Pahi Munwar Hussain , Solangi Rukhman , Xin Chunlin
Published: July 2021

Building on the emerging research that has demonstrated the adverse effects of abusive supervision on employee performance, this research draws on the theories of prosocial motivation and action identification. We develop and empirically test a mediation model to examine the indirect impact of abusive supervision on employee performance. Data were obtained from 430 Chinese healthcare employees to validate and test our proposed hypotheses and generalize the findings from Western settings in the Eastern context. The findings indicate that abusive supervision is negatively related to employee performance. Job satisfaction and extrinsic motivation mediated this relationship. The study has some important theoretical and practical implications, and we have also discussed some future directions.
On the Cole–Hopf transformation and integration by parts formulae in computational methods within fractional differential equations and fractional optimal control theory
Authors: Hendy Ahmed S , Zaky Mahmoud A , Tenreiro Machado José A
Published: July 2021

The treatment of fractional differential equations and fractional optimal control problems is more difficult to tackle than the standard integer-order counterpart and may pose problems to non-specialists. Due to this reason, the analytical and numerical methods proposed in the literature may be applied incorrectly. Often, such methods were established for the classical integer-order operators and are then applied directly without having in mind the restrictions posed by their fractional-order versions. It was recently reported that the Cole–Hopf transformation can be used to convert the time-fractional nonlinear Burgers’ equation into the time-fractional linear heat equation. In this article, we show that, unlike integer-order differential equations, employing the Cole–Hopf transformation for reducing the nonlinear time-fractional Burgers’ equation into the time-fractional heat equation is wrong from two different perspectives. Indeed, such a reduction is accomplished using incorrect transcripts of the Leibniz or chain rules. Hence, providing numerical or analytical schemes based on the Cole–Hopf transformation leads to erroneous results for the nonlinear time-fractional Burgers’ equation. Regarding constant-order, variable-order, and distributed-order Caputo fractional optimal problems, we note an inconsistency in the necessary optimality conditions derived in the literature. The transversality conditions were introduced as identical to those for the integer-order case, with a vanishing multiplier at the terminal of the interval. The correct condition should involve a constant-order, variable-order, or distributed-order fractional integral operator. We also deduce that if the control system is defined with a Caputo derivative, then the adjoint equations should be expressed in the Riemann–Liouville sense and vice versa. In fact, neglecting some terms in the integration by parts formulae, during the derivation of the optimality conditions, causes some confusion in the literature.
The Level of Expression of Anxiety and Depression in Clinical Health Care Workers during the COVID-19 Outbreak in 2 Hospitals in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Quang La Ngoc , Kien Nguyen Trung , Anh Pham Ngoc , Anh Dang Thi Van , Nghi Tran Do Bao , Lan Pham Phuong , Anh Nguyen The , Son Nguyen Van , Lieu Nguyen Thi Thuy
Published: July 2021

The disease caused by the SARS-Cov 2 virus has spread to most areas of the world with high rates of infection and deaths. Facing the complicated developments of the epidemic, clinical medical staff (CMS) are at risk of suffering psychological pressure. This study aimed to investigate the situation of anxiety, depression, and related factors affecting CMS during the COVID-19 pandemic at Dong Da General Hospital and Dong Anh General Hospital in Hanoi. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to July 2020 using self—administered questionnaires amongst 341 CMS. The participants’ anxiety levels were assessed using the standardized General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) toolkit and levels of depression expression were assessed based on the standardized Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) toolkit. Of the CMS who completed the questionnaire, 33.1% had an anxiety disorder and 23.2% exhibited mild to very severe depression. The factors associated with anxiety and depression were department of work, shortage of human resources, and discrimination from the community that directly affects the family of the CMS. The study results highlight the need for a training session to equip CMS with the skills required to cope with psychological stress in all circumstances in general and during the pandemic in particular. This training is especially important for those working in at-risk departments which are susceptible to infection.
Factors Influencing the Implementation of Patient Navigation Programs for Adults with Complex Needs: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Kokorelias Kristina M , Shiers-Hanley Jessica E , Rios Jorge , Knoepfli Amanda , Hitzig Sander L
Published: July 2021

Patient navigation is a model of care that aims to improve access to care by reducing the complexity of navigating health, education, and social services across the continuum of care and care settings. Little is known about the processes that facilitate or impede the implementation of patient navigation programs (PNPs). We conducted a scoping review to identify and summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the implementation and outcomes of existing implemented PNPs. We employed a 6-stage scoping review framework to identify and review eligible articles. Sixty-articles met the inclusion criteria (58 peer-reviewed and 2 grey literature). The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research served as the theoretical framework during analysis to help extract factors relevant to implementation of navigator programs. Results of the scoping review are reported thematically. Influences on implementation were identified: (a) planning to ensure alignment with organizational need (b) funding (c) multidisciplinary engagement (d) establishing workflow (e) mechanisms for communication (f) stakeholders to encourage buy-in (g) appropriate caseload (h) in kind resources. PNPs improve the experiences of patients and families. The findings of this scoping review provides implementation considerations of PNPs across global care settings. Strategies for overcoming pragmatic and logistical issues must be developed for optimal implementation.
Impact of the COVID-19 crisis on European tourism
Authors: Plzáková Lucie , Smeral Egon
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic and the containment measures imposed damaged the world economy severely. As a consequence of the stringent restrictions on business and social life, as well as the consequent economic downturn, tourism demand has seen a unique dramatic slump in the year 2020. This study concentrates on analysing and forecasting demand for international travel of the euro area in terms of tourism imports. Starting out from a description of the key macroeconomic factors, it then analyses their effects on tourism demand and develops a forecast model using contemporary approaches considering asymmetric income elasticities of tourism demand. Scenarios are elaborated to project demand for foreign travel of the euro area until 2022.
Perceptions of social and work functioning are related to social anxiety and executive function in autistic adults
Authors: Woolard Alix , Stratton Elizabeth , Demetriou Eleni A , Boulton Kelsie A , Pellicano Elizabeth , Glozier Nick , Gibbs Vicki , Rogerson Nicole , Quinn Philippa , Hickie Ian B , Guastella Adam J
Published: July 2021

Autistic adults report concerns with social skills and unemployment. Despite anxiety and difficulty with executive cognitive skills being associated with autism, no studies to date have investigated relationships between anxiety or executive cognition with social and work functioning. This study aimed to investigate the associations between perceived social anxiety, perceived and objective executive function, and perceived social and work functioning in a sample of autistic people. A total of 62 participants completed self-report questionnaires of social anxiety (via the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale), mental health (via the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale), executive cognition (via the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function) and perceived social and work functioning (the Work and Social Adjustment Scale), and a smaller subset ( n = 36–40) completed performance-based executive function tasks (Trail Making Task and Rapid Visual Processing Task). Participants who reported having more social anxiety and more difficulty with executive cognition also perceived themselves as having poorer social and work functioning. Performance-based executive function was not related to social or work functioning. Our results suggest that perceived social anxiety and executive cognition are both areas that have potential to be targeted to investigate whether they improve social and vocational outcomes for autistic people.

Lay abstract

Many autistic adults have trouble in social situations and at work. Researchers do not know exactly why autistic people might find it difficult in these environments, and no studies to date have looked the way anxiety or other cognitive processes might affect autistic peoples’ ability to socialise and succeed in getting and keeping jobs. Anxiety (how much you worry) and difficulty with getting stuff done or switching attention (known as executive function) can be concerns for autistic people and may contribute to social and work difficulties. This study looked at the relationships between the way autistic people perceived their anxiety and executive functioning and their ability to socialise and work. Sixty-two autistic participants completed questionnaires related to their ability to socialise and work, their social anxiety and their executive function. We found that participants who thought that they had poorer ability to work also found themselves to have more difficulties with executive function and they were more socially anxious. Our results showed that how autistic participants perceived their social anxiety and executive function were important in their perception of their social skills and work ability. This study supports the idea that anxiety and executive function could be targeted in interventions to support autistic people and their social and work outcomes.
Preserving prosociality in the face of inequality: A role for multiple group memberships and superordinate group identification
Authors: Dare Michael , Jetten Jolanda
Published: July 2021

Economic inequality has been linked to profound negative impacts due to its corrosive effect on social relations, and fairness is central to this. In line with social cure theorising, we propose that identification with (superordinate) groups can buffer against these effects. Study 1 ( N = 400) found that perceived fairness of inequality was negatively associated with helping attitudes, but this was attenuated among those who identified more strongly with a superordinate group. Study 2 ( N = 315) focused on perceived fairness of inequality and an expanded range of prosocial outcomes. Perceptions that inequality was fairer were associated with worse prosocial outcomes. However, these relationships were attenuated among those who reported belonging to more groups and those who identified strongly with the superordinate group. These studies highlight the role that group memberships and superordinate identification may play in countering the corrosive effects of societal inequality on prosocial behaviour.
Ideological bases of attitudes towards meat abstention: Vegetarianism as a threat to the cultural and economic status quo
Authors: Stanley Samantha K.
Published: July 2021

Those on the political right engage in greater meat consumption and animal exploitation than their left-wing counterparts. Previous research suggests this is because they view vegetarianism as threatening the nation’s dietary customs and economy. Across two studies, I extend this concept of “vegetarianism threat” by showing that it separates into two distinct dimensions of concern: cultural (symbolic) threats and economic (realistic) threats. The resultant multidimensional scale allows a finer grained understanding of the roots of ideology-based threat responses to meat-free movements. Together, results implicate symbolic concerns as the key element of vegetarianism threat contributing to negative attitudes towards meat abstention and its proponents.
Novel chest wall blocks for severe chest wall injuries in older persons: A case series
Authors: Riley Brooke , Malla Utsav , Snels Nicholas , Mitchell Andrew , Abi-Fares Catherine , Basson Willem , Anstey Chris , White Leigh
Published: July 2021

Patients over the age of 65 years admitted to hospital with more than six rib fractures have a mortality rate as high as 38%. Of the survivors, 34% are likely to be admitted to an aged care facility. High-quality analgesia is paramount to the mitigation of rib fracture–associated morbidity and mortality. We report a series of ten consecutive patients over the age of 65 years with more than eight fractured ribs. All patients were managed with a novel chest wall block. There were no deaths, and only one patient was discharged into an aged care facility.
Identity propaganda: Racial narratives and disinformation
Authors: Reddi Madhavi , Kuo Rachel , Kreiss Daniel
Published: July 2021

This article develops the concept of “identity propaganda,” or narratives that strategically target and exploit identity-based differences in accord with pre-existing power structures to maintain hegemonic social orders. In proposing and developing the concept of identity propaganda, we especially aim to help researchers find new insights into their data on misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda by outlining a framework for unpacking layers of historical power relations embedded in the content they analyze. We focus on three forms of identity propaganda: othering narratives that alienate and marginalize non-white or non-dominant groups; essentializing narratives that create generalizing tropes of marginalized groups; and authenticating narratives that call upon people to prove or undermine their claims to be part of certain groups. We demonstrate the utility of this framework through our analysis of identity propaganda around Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2020 US presidential election.
COVID-19 and its effects: On the risk of social inequality through digitalization and the loss of trust in three European education systems
Authors: Bormann Inka , Brøgger Katja , Pol Milan , Lazarová Bohumíra
Published: July 2021

This paper develops informed assumptions on the potential loss of trust as an unintended side-effect of the measures in education to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Well-founded concerns according to which the pandemic-induced closure of educational facilities and the shift to digitalized distance education are contributing to increased social inequality in education serve as a starting point for the argumentation. The paper contends that together with the temporary changes in the style of educational governance, in the medium term an exacerbated social inequality in education can cause a potential trust problem for the central actors imposing the measures. To support this line of reasoning, the exploratory study describes the context conditions which are relevant for the implementation and participation in digitalized distance education (measures, access and competent use of digital devices in education, level of trust) and combines them with the findings of a qualitative analysis of relevant documents from three European countries (Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany). A neo-institutional view is applied to exploring the implications of the changes in education governance and their potential side-effects on trust.
Transient and disturbed propeller load compensation in hybrid propulsion using propeller estimator and predictive control
Authors: Papalambrou George , Planakis Nikolaos , Kyrtatos Nikolaos
Published: July 2021

We address the design of a predictive power-split management system for the transient and fluctuating propeller load sharing. Modeling of the power system was carried out based on experimental data gathered from the hybrid plant and on first principles for the diesel engine behavior and battery charging. Propulsion plant and wave disturbance models are employed to simulate realistic marine load application that affects the powerplant operation. A propeller observer is developed to provide the propeller law parameter to the controller, in order to perform load estimation and prediction based on shaft speed elevation. A Nonlinear Model Predictive Controller (NMPC) is designed for the optimal transient power-split problem of a hybrid diesel-electric marine propulsion plant. The NMPC scheme directly controls the torque output of the diesel engine and the electric motor generator ensuring that certain constraints concerning the system overloading are met, avoiding fast accelerations, and load fluctuations of the diesel engine that affect engine performance. The control system was experimentally tested in real-time operation in a physical testbed. Results showed that controller rejected successfully load disturbances and maintained the desired rotational speed of the powertrain as well as the desirable state of charge in battery within the power plant limits, achieving smooth power transitions and compensation of power fluctuations of the diesel engine.
A method to measure the spectral responsivity of a photometer using optical excitations with arbitrary spectral distributions
Authors: Martinsons Christophe , Hlayhel Raed
Published: July 2021

The spectral responsivity of a photometer is usually measured using very narrow optical excitations, provided by a monochromator or a tuneable laser. This article describes a technique to measure the spectral responsivity using an arbitrary number of optical excitations having any type of spectral distribution. The problem is formulated as an inverse problem which is solved using a probabilistic approach based on Bayes’ theorem. The method requires a prior knowledge of the spectral responsivity, which can be proportional to the standard photopic function, with an uncertainty level related to the spectral match index of the photometer. Using this method, the estimation can be performed from data provided by a simple experimental set-up. The numerical application provides a stable and unique solution to the inverse problem, along with the estimation uncertainties. Using a tuneable LED source, the method was applied to an illuminance measurement head, giving an estimation of its spectral responsivity from 380 to 780 nm with a step of 1 nm. The results were in good agreement with data obtained by a monochromator-based technique. Our measurement had larger uncertainties towards the red and blue limits of the spectrum as the light source provided very little light at these wavelengths.
Improving LED certification using multi-criteria decision-making method methods
Authors: Oliveira Lorenna B , Araujo Júlia F , Fortes Marcio Z , Bergiante Níssia CR , Ferreira Vitor H , Gavião Luiz O , Lima Gilson BA
Published: July 2021

The Brazilian economic scenario promotes sustainable development by, among other actions, reducing the pressure on the expansion of electricity capacity. Furthermore, efficiency and reliability may be achieved through regulations and standardised production. From this perspective, there is a steadfast need for continuous improvement in the process of certification of products in the country. This shall apply to the energy sector, in which certifications of LED (light-emitting diode) lamps are part of the Brazilian Labelling Program (PBE), coordinated by Inmetro (Brazilian accreditation body). PBE seeks to provide technical information about the products to support consumers’ choices, stimulating industry competitiveness and improve equipment reliability. From this standpoint, this article presents an analysis of the certification process of LED lamps to propose reviewing requirements into the current label which might help to change the consumers’ energy consumption-related decision-making using the multi-criteria decision-making method (MCDM), TOPSIS. To this end, not only energy efficiency was observed but also other aspects of generated light quality and power quality currently considered as requirements for compulsory LED lighting certification.
Less-standard claims to justice through the lens of media debates on minority education
Authors: Lepianka Dorota
Published: July 2021

The coexistence, not always peaceful, of multiple and often rival, conceptions of justice in education policy and practice is well recognized and problematized in the academic literature. Relatively little is known, however, about what kind of justice-related considerations occupy the ‘public mind’ and/or inform what Nancy Fraser calls ‘folk paradigms of justice’. The current article seeks to shed light on the public construction of the ‘what’ of justice in the realm of education by analysing selected debates on minority education politics that occur in news and social media in five European countries. Fraser’s tripartite model of justice as redistribution, recognition and representation constituted the starting point of the investigation. The results of a qualitative analysis of selected media content show that while Fraser’s framework resonates well with the popular understandings of justice, the tripartite typology is not exhaustive in accounting for all justice claims evoked in the public domain. In the light of the debates analysed, three types of ‘alternative’ claims seem particularly relevant for theorizing justice in education and/or seeking legitimacy for education policy: claims that appeal to civil rights and liberties, claims that appeal to procedural justice and claims that appeal to epistemic justice.
Cognitive-emotional skills and democratic education
Authors: Read Hannah
Published: July 2021

A primary aim of any comprehensive democratic education is to prepare citizens for full and active participation in the public sphere. Crucial to meeting this aim is the development of key cognitive-emotional skills, such as perspective-taking. At the same time, many of the social institutions in which cognitive-emotional skill training might be implemented – such as schools – are insufficiently diverse, particularly with respect to race and socio-economic status. Yet, without a sufficiently diverse setting in which to train perspective-taking and other cognitive-emotional skills, we run the risk of simply learning to exercise these skills with those who are similar to us. Philosophers have already drawn attention to the benefits and risks of widespread and thorough integration as a strategy for addressing the insufficient diversity problem. Against these alternatives, I argue that measures can be taken to create more integrated contexts in which to train cognitive-emotional skills and engage constructively with diverse others as part of a comprehensive democratic education under current non-ideal conditions – what I call taking a Purposeful Interaction Approach. The Purposeful Interaction Approach may even promote more sustainable versions of other, more robust forms of integration. Far from replacing them, the Purposeful Interaction Approach is thus meant to amplify a variety of efforts to achieve the broader social justice goal of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in public life.
The relationship of neutrophil elastase and proteinase 3 with risk factors, and chronic complications in type 2 diabetes: A Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) sub-study
Authors: Ong Kwok-Leung , Wu Liang , Januszewski Andrzej S , O’Connell Rachel , Xu Aimin , Scott Russell S , Sullivan David R , Rye Kerry-Anne , Li Huating , Ma Ronald CW , Li Liping , Gebski Val , Jenkins Alicia J , Jia Weiping , Keech Anthony C
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Neutrophil elastase (NE) and proteinase 3 (PR3) are novel inflammation biomarkers. We investigated their associations with chronic complications, determinants of biomarker levels and effects of fenofibrate in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes study.

Methods:

Plasma NE and PR3 levels were quantified at baseline ( n = 2000), and relationships with complications over 5-years assessed. Effects of fenofibrate on biomarker levels ( n = 200) were determined at four follow-up visits.

Results:

Higher waist-to-hip ratio, homocysteine and C-reactive protein and lower apoA-II were determinants of higher NE and PR3 levels. Higher NE levels were associated with on-trial stroke and cardiovascular mortality, and higher PR3 levels with on-trial stroke, but associations were not significant after adjustment for confounding factors. Although higher NE and PR3 levels were associated with baseline total microvascular disease, only NE levels were associated with on-trial neuropathy or amputation. These associations were not significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons. NE and PR3 levels did not change with fenofibrate.

Conclusions:

In T2DM plasma NE and PR3 levels are associated with vascular risk factors, and total microvascular disease at baseline, but on rigorous analyses were not associated with on-trial complications. Levels were not changed by fenofibrate.
Effects of operating and material parameters on the thermal characteristics of a wet clutch
Authors: Zhang Zhigang , Zou Ling , Liu Hang , Chen Yonglong , Zhang Benzhu
Published: July 2021

Based on the frictional mechanism of a wet clutch, frictional models of wet clutch engagement were established using the modified Reynolds equation and the elastic contact model between frictional pairs. Then, the heat flux models for the viscous shear and asperity friction were built, and the two-dimensional transient thermal models for the separator plate, friction disk, and ATF heat convection model were deduced based on the heat transfer theory and conservation law of energy. Finally, the Runge–Kutta numerical method was used to solve the frictional and thermal models. The average temperature of the separator plate, friction disk, and ATF were calculated. The effects of operating and material parameters, such as applied pressure, initial angular velocity, friction lining permeability, surface combined roughness RMS, equivalent elastic modulus, and ATF flow, on the thermal characteristics of friction pairs and ATF during engagement, were studied. The simulation results show that the temperature characteristics of the separator plate, friction disk, and ATF depend mainly on the viscous shear and asperity friction heat flux, and that the operating and material parameters of the wet clutch also have significant impacts on the overall variation trend of the thermal characteristics of the separator plate, friction disk, and ATF.
Homocoupling of terminal alkynes catalyzed by CuCl under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Xiao Yan , Gao Jiyu , Chen Peng , Chen Guangliang , Li Zicheng , Huang Wencai
Published: July 2021

A series of symmetrical 1,4-disubstituted buta-1,3-diynes is prepared with excellent yields (up to 95%) through homocoupling of terminal alkynes catalyzed by a copper salt under solvent-free conditions. This method provides an environmentally friendly process to prepare 1,3-diynes in short reaction times under mild conditions. Furthermore, the method is suitable for a wide substrate scope and has excellent functional group compatibility. The reaction can also be scaled up to gram level.
Building Scenarios With the Three Tomorrows
Authors: Serra del Pino Jordi
Published: July 2021

Postnormal times, as a concept and as a theory, was conceived in a futures studies context by futurists, yet there have some doubts regarding its applicability when engaging in actual futures research. The arrival of Sardar and Sweeney’s article “The Three Tomorrows of Postnormal Times” seemed to provide the missing method. Yet, despite the authors’ claim, the three tomorrows is not a method, nor does their article explain how to develop the tomorrows. However, it is possible to build future scenario using the three tomorrows not as a method but as an approach. As an approach, the three tomorrows offer a general structure in which it is possible to undertake a futures research. To prove it, this article presents a three-stage process that can help any researcher construct scenarios following the tenets of postnormal times theory.
Rethinking sociocultural notions of learning in the digital era: Understanding the affordances of networked platforms
Authors: Ünlüsoy Aslı , Leander Kevin M , de Haan Mariëtte
Published: July 2021

Understanding the affordances that networked platforms offer is a good place to start rethinking our notions of learning. The article discusses how social connectivity has changed, arguing that networking and networks have become foregrounded in how we perceive and experience our (digital) social worlds. Our aim is to understand the nature of networked structures, and the networked practices that these have enabled, to shed light upon how they ‘work’ for learning. While making use of the concept of affordances, the article discusses a selection of four affordances of digital networks (visibility, scalability, flexibility and persistence) and argues how these impact upon opportunities to learn through social media. The article finally critically reflects on how sociocultural theories of learning need expansion and revision, given social changes involving the rise of social media, but it also shows how this perspective leads the way in pointing to new challenges for theorising learning.
How UK health care professionals conceptualise parental experiences of the diagnostic process for autism spectrum disorder: A qualitative study
Authors: Daniels Natasha Faye , Coughlan Barry , Duschinsky Robbie
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

Much of the literature on diagnostic experiences of autism focuses on parental perspectives. Few studies have explored how health care professionals conceptualise parental experiences of the diagnostic process. The current study examines clinical perspectives of the diagnostic process with a focus on the perceived impact of assessment on families.

Methods:

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 25 health care professionals from various National Health Service child and adolescent mental health services and general practices in the United Kingdom. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and data were analysed using a thematic approach.

Results:

Two main themes were identified: (1) stress and the autism spectrum disorder diagnostic process and (2) expectations of the diagnostic pathway. The main sources of stress perceived by the health care professionals related to diagnostic delay and ambiguity around the diagnostic process, with parents facing significant hurdles in understanding their child’s behaviour. Many health care professionals also reported a struggle to navigate differing expectations of the diagnostic process between parents and clinicians, as well as managing objectivity in the face of significant distress. Parent internalised stigma and guilt was a key component of the health care professional’s perception of sources of stress around the diagnostic process.

Conclusion:

The vast majority of clinicians recognised the diagnostic pathway as a significant source of stress for parents, with many hurdles and battles to finalise the process.
Association between obesity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Moroccan adults: Evidence from the BOLD study
Authors: Benslimane Abdelilah , Garcia-Larsen Vanessa , El Kinany Khaoula , Alaoui Chrifi Amina , Hatime Zineb , Benjelloun Mohamed Chakib , El Biaze Mohammed , Nejjari Chakib , El Rhazi Karima
Published: July 2021

Objective:

The Moroccan cross-sectional study aimed to investigate obesity in association to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Fez city.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was carried out in Moroccan adults. Anthropometric and spirometry measurements were performed using standardized guidelines.

Results:

Among the 744 participants, 53.9% of were women, with a mean age of 55.27 years (SD = 10.29). Nearly all women declared themselves to be never smokers, while 21% of men were current smokers. Overall, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease prevalence decreased with body mass index ( p = 0.01) and waist circumference ( p < 0.001). The same trends were also observed in women. The adjusted regression analysis showed a significant independent association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and decreasing overweight (ORa: 0.66; CI95% (0.40–0.98)), obesity (ORa: 0.66 CI95%: (0.36–0.89)), and a decreasing waist circumference-abdominal obesity (ORa: 0.58 CI95%: (0.34–0.99)) in the whole population. The same association remains significant in women for overweight (ORa: 0.18 CI95%: (0.06–0.54)) and for waist circumference-abdominal obesity (ORa: 0.40 CI95%: (0.19–0.85)). All these associations disappeared for men.

Conclusion:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease decreases with the increase in body mass index and waist circumference. The effect of waist circumference on the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was greater among women, regardless of the tobacco factor. A multicenter study would help to confirm the accuracy of these findings in a larger sample of the Moroccan population. Developed lifestyle programs in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease should be considered.
Prostate cancer screening: A survey of medical students’ knowledge in Lome, Togo, and associated determinants in a resource-limited African context
Authors: Darré Tchin , Djiwa Toukilnan , Kpatcha Tchilabalo Matchonna , Sidibé Albadia , Sewa Edoé , Botcho Gnimdou , Padja Essodina , Napo-Koura Gado
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

The aims of this study were to assess the knowledge of medical students in Lomé about these means of screening for prostate cancer in a context of limited resources and controversy about prostate cancer screening, and to identify the determinants associated with these results.

Methods:

This was a prospective descriptive and cross-sectional study conducted in the form of a survey of medical students regularly enrolled at the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Lomé for the 2019–2020 academic years.

Results:

Of the 1635 eligible students, 1017 correctly completed the form, corresponding to a rate of 62.20%. The average age was 22 ± 3.35 years. The sex ratio (M/F) was 2.5. Undergraduate students were the most represented (53.69%). Students who had not received any training on prostate cancer were the most represented (57.13%). Only 12.88% of the students had completed a training course in urology. Concerning the prostate-specific antigen blood test, there was a statistically significant relationship between the students’ knowledge and some of their socio-demographic characteristics, namely age (p value = 0.0037; 95% confidence interval (0.50–1.77)); gender (p value = 0.0034; 95% confidence interval (1.43–2.38)); study cycle (p value ˂ 0.0001; 95% confidence interval (0.56–5.13)) and whether or not they had completed a placement in a urology department (p value ˂ 0.0001; 95% confidence interval (0.49–1.55)). On the contrary, there was no statistically significant relationship between students’ knowledge of the digital rectal examination and their study cycle (p value = 0.082; 95% confidence interval (0.18–3.44)).

Conclusion:

Medical students in Lomé have a good theoretical knowledge and a fair practical level of the digital rectal examination clinical examination and an average theoretical knowledge and a below average practical level of prostate-specific antigen, increasing however along the curriculum in the context of prostate cancer screening.
Molecular bacterial load assay versus culture for monitoring treatment response in adults with tuberculosis
Authors: Said Bibie , Charlie Loveness , Getachew Emnet , Wanjiru Catherine Lydiah , Abebe Mekdelawit , Manyazewal Tsegahun
Published: July 2021

The lack of rapid, sensitive, and deployable tuberculosis diagnostic tools is hampering the early diagnosis of tuberculosis and early detection of treatment failures. The conventional sputum smear microscopy or Xpert MTB/RIF assay cannot distinguish between alive and dead bacilli and the culture method delays providing results. Tuberculosis molecular bacterial load assay is a reverse transcriptase real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction that quantifies viable tuberculosis bacillary load as a marker of treatment response for patients on anti-tuberculosis therapy. However, results are not synthesized enough to inform its comparative advantage to tuberculosis culture technique which is yet the gold standard of care. With this review, we searched electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, from March 2011 up to February 2021 for clinical trials or prospective cohort studies that compared tuberculosis molecular bacterial load assay with tuberculosis culture in adults. We included eight studies that meet the inclusion criteria. Tuberculosis molecular bacterial load assay surpasses culture in monitoring patients with tuberculosis during the first few weeks of anti-tuberculosis treatment. It is more desirable over culture for its shorter time to results, almost zero rates of contamination, need for less expertise on the method, early rate of decline, lower running cost, and reproducibility. Its rapid and specific tuberculosis treatment monitoring competency benefits patients and healthcare providers to monitor changes of bacillary load among isolates with drug-susceptible or resistance to anti-tuberculosis regimens. Despite of the high installing cost of the tuberculosis molecular bacterial load assay method, molecular expertise, and a well-equipped laboratory, tuberculosis molecular bacterial load assay is a cost-effective method with comparison to culture in operational running. To achieve maximum utility in high tuberculosis burden settings, an intensive initial investment in nucleic acid extraction and polymerase chain reaction equipment, training in procedures, and streamlining laboratory supply procurement systems are crucial. More evidence is needed to demonstrate the potential large-scale and sustainable use of tuberculosis molecular bacterial load assay over culture in resource-constrained settings.
Cryptococcus neoformans osteomyelitis of the calcaneus: Case report and literature review
Authors: Ghioldi Mauricio Esteban , Dealbera Eric Daniel , Chemes Lucas Nicolás , Caballero Gustavo Alejandro , Del Vecchio Jorge Javier
Published: July 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated, yeast-like fungus that can cause a systemic mycosis, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Disseminated infections typically affect the central nervous system, and osseous lesions are infrequent. Only 5%–10% of disseminated cryptococcosis involves bones. A 69-year-old female presented pain, swelling, and a soft tissue mass in her right lateral hindfoot. Her medical history included a kidney transplant (10 years earlier) secondary to chronic disease due to IgA nephropathy. The patient underwent an excisional biopsy, surgical debridement, and secondarily negative pressure wound therapy to achieve skin closure. Biopsy revealed a rare Cryptococcus neoformans osteomyelitis of the calcaneus. The patient then received IV treatment with liposomal amphotericin B at 3 mg/kg/d for 25 days. In conclusion, we present a case of cryptococcal osteomyelitis which, although not a frequent disease, must be considered as one of the differential diagnoses of osteolytic osseous lesions in patients with chronic osteomyelitis. Cryptococcus neoformans may be a potential cause of below-knee infection, mainly in immunocompromised patients.
Thromboelastometry early identifies thrombotic complications related to COVID-19: A case report
Authors: Araújo San Martin Raíssa Lanna , Crochemore Tomaz , Aragão Savioli Felício , Oliveira Coelho Fernanda , da Hora Passos Rogério
Published: July 2021

COVID-19 is a contagious infectious disease, which quickly spreads worldwide, whose clinical presentation includes from mild flu-like symptoms to pneumonia and severe acute respiratory syndrome. The severe presentation of the disease can affect different organs and systems. Coagulopathy has been associated with a worse clinical outcome, with manifestations such as pulmonary embolism and systemic arterial thrombosis. Thromboelastometry has been used to identify hypercoagulability in early stages of disease. We report the case of a 59-year-old woman with COVID-19 infection complicated by pulmonary embolism and acute arterial thrombosis associated with critical lower limb ischemia requiring amputation. This report showed a case of thrombotic complication in patient with infection caused by novel coronavirus 2019 whose thromboelastometry allowed the early identification of hypercoagulability pattern. This is a single case report and the use of thromboelastometry should be further evaluated in large prospective cohort studies.
Orally administered anti-eotaxin-1 monoclonal antibody is biologically active in the gut and alleviates immune-mediated hepatitis: A novel anti-inflammatory personalized therapeutic approach
Authors: Khoury Tawfik , Rotnemer-Golinkin Dory , Zolotarev Lidya , Ilan Yaron
Published: July 2021

Personalized therapies are designed to optimize the safety-to-efficacy ratio by selecting patients with higher response rates based on specific biomarkers. Inflammation plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a common liver disorder. Eotaxin-1 plays a role in innate and adaptive immune responses. High eotaxin-1 levels are associated with diabetes and fatty liver disease and, therefore, serves as a biomarker for patient selection. The anti-eotaxin-1 monoclonal antibody is tailored for the personalized therapy of patients with inflammatory conditions due to high levels of eotaxin-1. To evaluate the biological activity and immunomodulatory effect of orally administered anti-eotaxin-1. C57B1/6 mice were treated with either oral or intra-peritoneal anti-eotaxin-1 antibody before induction of immune-mediated hepatitis using an injection of concanavalin A (ConA) and checked for liver injury and eotaxin-1 serum levels. Oral administration of anti-eotaxin-1 alleviated the immune-mediated liver injury. Serum alanine aminotransferase levels decreased to 1807 U/L, compared with 19025 U/L in untreated controls and 3657 U/L in mice treated with parenteral anti-eotaxin-1 ( P < 0.005). A trend toward reduced serum eotaxin-1 levels was observed in treated mice, ranging from 594 pg/mL in the controls to 554 and 561 pg/mL in mice treated orally and intraperitoneally ( P = 0.08, P = 0.06, respectively). Oral administration of anti-eotaxin-1 antibody shows biological activity in the gut and exerts a systemic immunomodulatory effect to alleviate immune-mediated hepatitis. The data suggest that testing for eotaxin-1 serum levels may enable screening patients with high-eotaxin-1 levels-associated NASH.