bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of Portuguese Women in the Precariat: Between Frustration and the Lack of Meaning in the Future
Authors: Ornelas Marta Gorete Rodrigues , Matos Fátima Regina Ney , De Mesquita Rafael Fernandes
Published: September 2023

How does the growing precariousness in employment and labor relations impact the construction of subjectivities and the personal and professional narratives of Portuguese working women? This research focuses on one of the distinctive aspects of this “class” – the precariat, which refers to highly educated young adults with jobs below these qualifications –, with the relations of production. More specifically, it focuses on women who believed that higher education would allow them to have a safe career/work trajectory. We conducted interviews with highly educated young women and adult women with precarious jobs, who perform functions below their academic qualifications. The collected data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis techniques, with the aid of the software Atlas/TI. The results show how precariousness means not only the uncertainty of salaried work but also, and above all, uncertainty as a way of life, of forms of subjection, and of bodies. This uncertainty extends to the whole sphere of life, producing subjectivities marked by anxiety, stress, pain, vulnerability, frustration, and hopelessness concerning the future. Keywords: precariat; precariousness; women; governmentality; subjectivities. Resumo — Como a crescente precariedade no emprego e nas relações de trabalho tem impacto na construção de subjetividades e nas narrativas pessoais e profissionais das mulheres portuguesas trabalhadoras? A investigação centra-se num dos aspectos distintivos desta “classe” - o precariado, que se refere aos jovens adultos com alta qualificação e trabalhos aquém desta -, com as relações de produção, especificamente no caso das mulheres que acreditavam que o ensino superior lhes permitiria ter uma carreira/trajetória segura de trabalho. Realizamos entrevistas com mulheres altamente qualificadas que estão em trabalhos precários, em que desempenham funções abaixo de suas qualificações acadêmicas. Os dados coletados foram analisados com técnicas de análise de conteúdo qualitativa, com auxílio do software Atlas/TI. Os resultados mostram como a precariedade não significa apenas a incerteza do trabalho assalariado, mas também e, sobretudo, a incerteza como modo de viver, dos modos de subjetivação e dos corpos. Incerteza que se estende à toda a esfera da vida, produzindo subjetividades marcadas por ansiedade, estresse, dor, vulnerabilidade, frustração e desesperança em relação ao futuro. Palavras-chave: precariado; precariedade; mulheres; governamentalidade; subjetividades.
De volta ao passado: o debate histórico das profissões e do Serviço Social no Brasil
Authors: Menezes Débora Holanda Leite
Published: September 2023

Resenha do livro Profissões e serviço social: surgimento e regulamentação ética no Brasil, de Charles Toniolo.
Rose Serra: uma vida de paixões e subversões
Authors: César Monica De Jesus
Published: September 2023

Homenagem de vida à Rose Serra
Entre um jogo de luz e sombras: percursos de re-existência
Authors: Souza Simone Brandão , Dourado Elziane (Ziza)
Published: September 2023

Mostra fotográfca de Simone Brandão Souza
Private investment in childcare is a risky business
Authors: Simon Antonia
Published: September 2023

Dr Antonia Simon, associate professor at UCL Institute for Education, discusses the impact private equity is having on the childcare sector, as well as sharing her views on possible reforms which could increase transparency and accountability, and ensure a better situation for parents, staff and children.
Sussex Seaweed Sensor Inspired By Masterchef
Authors: Wade Andrew
Published: September 2023

Lockdown TV viewing provided inspiration for biodegradable wearable sensor
Leading The Low Carbon Transport Revolution
Authors: Rami Neil
Published: September 2023

The West Midlands has the potential to lead the world in low carbon mobility technology, but it needs the backing of a clear industrial strategy writes Neil Rami, CEO of the West Midlands Growth Company
Hydrogen Flight Path
Authors: Excell Jon
Published: September 2023

At a hangar in rural Bedfordshire, UK firm Cranfield Aerospace Solutions is quietly charting a course for a new era of zero-emissions aviation.
Promoting person-centred care in the home support of older people through situational judgement tests: a feasibility study
Authors: Dunn Abigail , Tiffin Paul A. , Wilberforce Mark
Published: September 2023

Homecare providers face acute staff shortages, yet identifying new candidates with values aligned to person-centred care is challenging. This study aimed to develop and provisionally evaluate situational judgement tests to support recruitment. A total of 11 in-depth interviews with homecare workers yielded 59 ‘critical incidents’ in which person-centred values were tested. Draft scenarios were developed alongside behavioural response options, and a scoring key was devised by 15 people with lived experiences. After piloting, the final situational judgement tests comprised 11 scenarios with 63 response options. Homecare providers reported high acceptability and feasibility, feeling that the situational judgement tests could support recruitment. Future research will test their psychometric properties.
The History and Present of Hearing Aid and Cochlear Implant Advertising
Authors: Burrows Kathryn
Published: September 2023

Abstract: In this article, I explore the medicalization of deafness by analyzing print, online, and YouTube video marketing materials of hearing aid ads and cochlear implants from around 1910, which roughly corresponds to the advent of the micro-battery in hearing aids, to the current day. I argue that these advertisements rely on concepts of normality, medicalization, and stigma to market their products. I identify four overarching central themes in the advertisements: inconspicuousness, isolation/connection, modernity, cutting edge technology, and success. Ultimately, the desire to be “normal” is what lies behind all these ads and websites.
From Cookies to AI: Roundtable on the Evolving Landscape of Technology, Data, and Privacy
Authors: Cutler Kelly , Dones Cecilia , Knight Simone , Lecinski Jim , Truss Mark , Wollen Roy , Timke Edward
Published: September 2023

Abstract: How do consumers understand what their data is worth to advertisers, who uses them, and why? This roundtable covers questions like this, and a myriad of other topics related to privacy, data, security, technology, and artificial intelligence. The panelists discuss consumer perception of privacy, the value of personal data, and the need for consumer education. They explore the rapid advancement of technology and emphasize the importance of education, ethics, and collective efforts in shaping the future. The discussion delves into the potential and challenges of artificial intelligence, intellectual property concerns, self-regulation, and privacy as a competitive advantage. They also examine the intersection of data, privacy, politics, and disinformation, offering perspectives on the role of AI in selling ideologies. The panel concludes by emphasizing the significance of hands-on experience, critical thinking skills, continuous self-education, and brand responsibility in consumer education. They encourage positive engagement with technology and foster an optimistic mindset toward the future.
Meet People Where They Are: An Interview with Chief Diversity Officer Geraldine White
Authors: Jenkins Joanna L. , White Geraldine
Published: September 2023

Abstract: This article presents an interview with Geraldine White, Chief Diversity Officer at Publicis Groupe, discussing her work and insights on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The interview explores White’s background and early experiences that influenced her commitment to DEI. It delves into the challenges faced in implementing authentic DEI strategies, such as avoiding performative actions and addressing the slow acceptance of DEI language and concepts. White highlights effective strategies for cultivating diverse talent and creating an inclusive workplace, including the use of business resource groups and embedding DEI into all business practices. She also discusses the trajectory of DEI, addressing future projections related to working parents, legislative changes, and the impact of artificial intelligence on work and bias. Lastly, White offers advice for professors and students interested in pursuing careers in DEI, emphasizing the importance of practical applications of human psychology and the value of mentorship and networking opportunities.
Mitigation of the parallel-path effect for reliable monitoring of a passive optical network using standard optical time domain reflectometry
Authors: Urban Patryk J.
Published: September 2023

Optical access networks evolve towards higher bit-rates, which is driven by a growing number of fiber-to-the-home users and by bandwidth-demanding mobile transport. Maintenance requirements of such networks call for very effective and efficient supervision of the fiber infrastructure. Moreover, since the fiber is also known for its sensing capabilities, the outside distribution plant of the access network has been recently considered for providing sensing services co-existing with telecom services. To enable reliable fiber monitoring and sensing, the detrimental impact of the parallel-path effect in point-to-multipoint access networks needs to be addressed. This paper introduces the concept of serialization of an optical time domain reflectometry trace of a point-to-multipoint passive optical network, which radically reduces the parallel-path effect impact on fiber anomaly detection and measurement. The concept is experimentally proven in a representative access network architecture.
Monte-Carlo-based dynamic air–water cross-media channel for continuous-variable quantum key distribution
Authors: Yun Sijie , Wu Hao , Ren Sian , Ruan Xinzhao , Zhang Hang , Guo Ying
Published: September 2023

Cross-media and confidentiality are key features of next-generation optical communications. Quantum communication is regarded as a promising new form of secure communication. However, the cross-media transmission of quantum pulses tends to suffer from severe attenuation, which inevitably degrades the security of the whole system. In this paper, we consider the configuration of the continuous-variable quantum key distribution through an air–water cross-media channel that involves the lower-atmospheric channel, the underwater channel, and the air–water interface. We consider the effect of air bubbles in seawater, and the effect of the dynamic air–water interface as well. In particular, dynamic characteristics of light extinction and fluctuations caused by seawater and bubbles have been demonstrated with Monte Carlo (MC) simulations. Based on this MC-based model, we demonstrate the communication viability, and simulation results show that in clear seawater conditions with a wind speed of 5 m/s and a zenith angle of 15°, the receiver is able to achieve an effective secret key rate (10−4 bits/pulse) even at 9.71 m depth. Smaller zenith angles and lower wind speeds contribute to an increase in the interface secret key rate.
Detection limit improvement for a gas concentration measurement system using space-domain active fiber cavity ring-down sensing technology
Authors: He Jie , Cheng Chunfu , Ou Yiwen , Xie Zuozhun , Wu Zhihong , Deng Bo , Liu Wei , Yang Shuwen
Published: September 2023

Trace gas sensors have received extensive attention and have become particularly attractive for applications in toxic gas detection, medical diagnostics, pollution monitoring, industrial emission measurement, and so on. However, it is still a critical challenge for gas sensors to simultaneously achieve high sensitivity and low detection limits while performing well in stability. Here, a space-domain active fiber cavity ring-down (FCRD) gas sensing technique was proposed to develop a high-performance gas sensor. Taking advantage of the active FCRD sensing technique and frequency-shifted interferometry, the proposed gas sensor exhibited a high sensitivity of 1.122km−1/%. Importantly, introducing a bidirectional EDFA into the fiber cavity further enhances the light–gas interaction, resulting in a low detection limit of 55 ppm, which is much lower than that of most reported gas sensors. Moreover, a good stability of 0.58% can be achieved due to the combined effect of the proposed technology using differential detection to eliminate DC noise, as well as common-path interference to eliminate common-mode noise and the use of continuous light to stabilize the optical power in the fiber cavity for suppressing the gain fluctuations of EDFA.
Accurately predicting the tool influence function to achieve high-precision magnetorheological finishing using robots
Authors: Cheng Runmu , Li Longxiang , Xue Donglin , Li Xingchang , Bai Yang , Luo Xiao , Zhang Xuejun
Published: September 2023

Industrial robots with six degrees-of-freedom have significant potential for use in optical manufacturing owing to their flexibility, low cost, and high space utilisation. However, the low trajectory accuracy of robots affects the manufacturing accuracy of optical components when combined with magnetorheological finishing (MRF). Moreover, general robot trajectory-error compensation methods cannot compensate for the running errors of large robots with high precision. To address this problem, a three-dimensional (3D) tool influence function (TIF) model based on inverse distance interpolation is developed in this study to accurately predict the TIF of different polishing gaps. A high-precision robot-MRF polishing strategy based on variable TIFs and surface shape accuracy of polished optics is proposed to achieve high-precision manufacturing without compensating for trajectory errors. Subsequently, the accuracy of a ϕ420 mm fused silica mirror is experimentally verified to be from 0.11 λ RMS to 0.013 λ RMS. This validates that the robot-MRF can achieve high-precision polishing without compensating for trajectory errors. Furthermore, the proposed model will promote the applications of industrial robots in optical manufacturing and will serve as a reference in the field of intelligent optical manufacturing.
Line spectroscopic reflectometry for rapid and large-area thickness measurement
Authors: Lee Minchol , Park Jaehyun , Kim Jeongmin
Published: September 2023

Thickness measurements in the range of 0.1–1 mm over large optically transparent layers are essential in various manufacturing applications. However, existing non-contact measurement methods, which typically measure a single point or a few points at a time, fall short in their suitability for inline area measurement. Here, we introduce line spectroscopic reflectometry (LSR), an approach that extends the point measurement of traditional SR to line measurement, enabling rapid thickness measurement over large areas. By combining line beam illumination and line spectroscopy, LSR can measure 2048 points simultaneously, thereby boosting the measurement speed by two thousand times. We detail the measurement principle and the optical design in the near-infrared regime, and demonstrate thickness measurements of single-layered and double-layered samples over a measurement line length of up to 68 mm. Furthermore, we showcase the inline area measurement capability of LSR through one-dimensional sample scanning, with measurement rates limited only by camera readout rates.
Distributed optical synthetic aperture position-transformed method with high-frequency domain coverage
Authors: Zhang Kui , Bao Weimin , Fang Haiyan , Li Xiaoping , Song Yufeng
Published: September 2023

Realizing an ultrahigh-equivalent aperture for space-based direct optical detection using a distributed optical synthetic aperture (DOSA) system with a very low filling ratio is challenging. This study proposes a position-transformation method for DOSA systems with high-frequency domain coverage called High-Frequency domain-Covering discrete Archimedean Spiral Arrays (HFCASA). The study shows that Golay3 HFCASA with a filling ratio of 0.0675% can greatly improve frequency domain coverage and fulfill the resolution requirements of a 200 m aperture telescope. HFCASA provides the theoretical basis for the future deep-space exploration of DOSA.
End-to-end algorithm for the automatic detection of the neural canal opening in OCT images based on a multi-task deep learning model
Authors: Lee Chieh-En , Tu Jia-Ling , Tsai Pei-Chia , Ko Yu-Chieh , Chen Shih-Jen , Chen Ying-Shan , Cheng Chu-Ming , Tien Chung-Hao
Published: September 2023

Neural canal opening (NCO) are important landmarks of the retinal pigment epithelium layer in the optic nerve head region. Conventional NCO detection employs multimodal measurements and feature engineering, which is usually suitable for one specific task. In this study, we proposed an end-to-end deep learning scenario for NCO detection based on single-modality features (OCT). The proposed method contains two visual tasks: one is to verify the existence of NCO points as a binary classification, and the other is to locate the NCO points as a coordinate regression. The feature representation of OCT images, extracted by a MobileNetV2 architecture, was evaluated under new testing data, with an average Euclidean distance error of 5.68 ± 4.45 pixels and an average intersection over union of 0.90 ± 0.03. This suggests that data-driven scenarios have the opportunity to provide a universal and efficient solution to various visual tasks from OCT images.
High-fidelity ptychographic imaging of highly periodic structures enabled by vortex high harmonic beams
Authors: Wang Bin , Brooks Nathan J. , Johnsen Peter , Jenkins Nicholas W. , Esashi Yuka , Binnie Iona , Tanksalvala Michael , Kapteyn Henry C. , Murnane Margaret M.
Published: September 2023

Ptychographic coherent diffractive imaging enables diffraction-limited imaging of nanoscale structures at extreme ultraviolet and x-ray wavelengths, where high-quality image-forming optics are not available. However, its reliance on a set of diverse diffraction patterns makes it challenging to use ptychography to image highly periodic samples, limiting its application to defect inspection for electronic and photonic devices. Here, we use a vortex high harmonic light beam driven by a laser carrying orbital angular momentum to implement extreme ultraviolet ptychographic imaging of highly periodic samples with high fidelity and reliability. We also demonstrate, for the first time to our knowledge, ptychographic imaging of an isolated, near-diffraction-limited defect in an otherwise periodic sample using vortex high harmonic beams. This enhanced metrology technique can enable high-fidelity imaging and inspection of highly periodic structures for next-generation nano, energy, photonic, and quantum devices.
Structure-based prediction of nucleic acid binding residues by merging deep learning- and template-based approaches
Authors: Jiang Zheng , Shen Yue-Yue , Liu Rong
Published: September 2023

Accurate prediction of nucleic binding residues is essential for the understanding of transcription and translation processes. Integration of feature- and template-based strategies could improve the prediction of these key residues in proteins. Nevertheless, traditional hybrid algorithms have been surpassed by recently developed deep learning-based methods, and the possibility of integrating deep learning- and template-based approaches to improve performance remains to be explored. To address these issues, we developed a novel structure-based integrative algorithm called NABind that can accurately predict DNA- and RNA-binding residues. A deep learning module was built based on the diversified sequence and structural descriptors and edge aggregated graph attention networks, while a template module was constructed by transforming the alignments between the query and its multiple templates into features for supervised learning. Furthermore, the stacking strategy was adopted to integrate the above two modules for improving prediction performance. Finally, a post-processing module dependent on the random walk algorithm was proposed to further correct the integrative predictions. Extensive evaluations indicated that our approach could not only achieve excellent performance on both native and predicted structures but also outperformed existing hybrid algorithms and recent deep learning methods. The NABind server is available at http://liulab.hzau.edu.cn/NABind/.
Reliability of gamified reinforcement learning in densely sampled longitudinal assessments
Authors: Neuser Monja P. , Kühnel Anne , Kräutlein Franziska , Teckentrup Vanessa , Svaldi Jennifer , Kroemer Nils B.
Published: September 2023

Reinforcement learning is a core facet of motivation and alterations have been associated with various mental disorders. To build better models of individual learning, repeated measurement of value-based decision-making is crucial. However, the focus on lab-based assessment of reward learning has limited the number of measurements and the test-retest reliability of many decision-related parameters is therefore unknown. In this paper, we present an open-source cross-platform application Influenca that provides a novel reward learning task complemented by ecological momentary assessment (EMA) of current mental and physiological states for repeated assessment over weeks. In this task, players have to identify the most effective medication by integrating reward values with changing probabilities to win (according to random Gaussian walks). Participants can complete up to 31 runs with 150 trials each. To encourage replay, in-game screens provide feedback on the progress. Using an initial validation sample of 384 players (9729 runs), we found that reinforcement learning parameters such as the learning rate and reward sensitivity show poor to fair intra-class correlations (ICC: 0.22–0.53), indicating substantial within- and between-subject variance. Notably, items assessing the psychological state showed comparable ICCs as reinforcement learning parameters. To conclude, our innovative and openly customizable app framework provides a gamified task that optimizes repeated assessments of reward learning to better quantify intra- and inter-individual differences in value-based decision-making over time.
Wet market biosecurity reform: Three social narratives influence stakeholder responses in Vietnam, Kenya, and the Philippines
Authors: Bardosh Kevin , Guinto Renzo R. , Bukachi Salome A. , Hang Tran Minh , Bongcac Marianne K. , de los Santos Mara Ysabella M. , Mburu Caroline M. , Abela Jackielyn , Kelly David , Maller Cecily
Published: September 2023

In 2020, Covid-19 led to global policy statements promoting bans and reforms to wet markets in Asia and Africa to prevent future pandemics. We conducted a comparative, exploratory qualitative study in 2021 in three countries (Kenya, Vietnam and the Philippines) to understand the social and political dimensions to biosecurity reform at wet markets. This included 60 key informant interviews and rapid ethnographic research in 15 markets, as well as a review of policy documents and online media articles. We found no evidence that the rhetoric of pandemic spillover that emerged in 2020 had any influence on policy or reform efforts apart from those related to Covid-19 infection control. Rather, we identified three main narratives that frame the problem of biosecurity and preferences for reform. The first, a human health narrative, questioned global framings about pandemic risk, viewed markets as sources for food security rather than disease, emphasized the need to strengthen the control of endemic diseases, and conceptualized health through the lens of ‘freshness’ rather than biomedical categories. A second modernization narrative approached biosecurity as part of a broader process of socio-economic development that emphasized infrastructural gaps, spatial arrangements, cleanliness and a conflict between reform and economic interests. A third narrative centered on local livelihoods and the tension between local market stakeholders and biosecurity and modernization efforts. This final narrative called into question the appropriateness of certain regulations and policies, including bans and closures, emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage and highlighted the need for collective political action to resist certain veterinary policies. In conclusion, wet market biosecurity strategies occur in the context of three contrasting narratives that emphasize different aspects of health and risk, and reflect different worldviews and interests. Within this context, there is a need for local government to strengthen market management and biosecurity in ways that enhance the agency of market stakeholders and strengthen local livelihoods and food security as part of a pluralistic and democratic politics.
Characteristics of male perpetrators of intimate partner violence and implications for women’s HIV status: A pooled analysis of cohabiting couples from 27 countries in Africa (2000–2020)
Authors: Kuchukhidze Salome , Panagiotoglou Dimitra , Boily Marie-Claude , Diabaté Souleymane , Imai-Eaton Jeffrey W. , Stöckl Heidi , Mbofana Francisco , Wanyenze Rhoda K. , Maheu-Giroux Mathieu
Published: September 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) may increase women’s HIV acquisition risk. Still, knowledge on pathways through which IPV exacerbates HIV burden is emerging. We examined the individual and partnership-level characteristics of male perpetrators of physical and/or sexual IPV and considered their implications for women’s HIV status. We pooled individual-level data from nationally representative, cross-sectional surveys in 27 countries in Africa (2000–2020) with information on past-year physical and/or sexual IPV and HIV serology among cohabiting couples (≥15 years). Current partners of women experiencing past-year IPV were assumed to be IPV perpetrators. We used Poisson regression, based on Generalized Estimating Equations, to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) for male partner and partnership-level factors associated with perpetration of IPV, and men’s HIV status. We used marginal standardization to estimate the adjusted risk differences (aRD) quantifying the incremental effect of IPV on women’s risk of living with HIV, beyond the risk from their partners’ HIV status. Models were adjusted for survey fixed effects and potential confounders. In the 48 surveys available from 27 countries (N = 111,659 couples), one-fifth of women reported that their partner had perpetrated IPV in the past year. Men who perpetrated IPV were more likely to be living with HIV (aPR = 1.09; 95%CI: 1.01–1.16). The aRD for living with HIV among women aged 15–24 whose partners were HIV seropositive and perpetrated past-year IPV was 30% (95%CI: 26%-35%), compared to women whose partners were HIV seronegative and did not perpetrate IPV. Compared to the same group, aRD among women whose partner was HIV seropositive without perpetrating IPV was 27% (95%CI: 23%-30%). Men who perpetrated IPV are more likely to be living with HIV. IPV is associated with a slight increase in young women’s risk of living with HIV beyond the risk of having an HIV seropositive partner, which suggests the mutually reinforcing effects of HIV/IPV.
Socioenvironmental determinants as indicators of plague risk in the central highlands of Madagascar: Experience of Ambositra and Tsiroanomandidy districts
Authors: Rakotosamimanana Sitraka , Taglioni François , Ravaoarimanga Masiarivony , Rajerison Minoarisoa Esther , Rakotomanana Fanjasoa
Published: September 2023

Background

Human plague cases are reported annually in the central highland regions of Madagascar, where the disease is endemic. The socioenvironmental characteristics and lifestyles of the populations of the central highland localities could be linked to this endemicity. The aim of this study was to determine socioenvironmental determinants that may be associated with plague risk and explain this variation in epidemiological contexts.

Methods

The current study was based on the distribution of plague cases between 2006 and 2015 that occurred in localities of districts positioned in the central highlands. Household surveys were performed from June to August 2017 using a questionnaire and direct observations on the socioenvironmental aspects of households in selected localities. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to highlight the socioenvironmental parameters associated with plague risk in both districts.

Results

A total of 503 households were surveyed, of which 54.9% (276/503) were in Ambositra and 45.1% (227/503) were in Tsiroanomandidy. Multivariate analyses showed that thatched roofs [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.63; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.78–3.88] and ground floor houses [AOR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.3–3.45-] were significantly associated with the vulnerability of a household to plague risk (p value<0.05).

Conclusions

Plague risk in two districts of the Malagasy central highlands is associated with human socioenvironmental characteristics. Socioenvironmental characteristics are parameters expressing spatial heterogeneity through the difference in epidemiological expression of the plague in Ambositra and Tsiroanomandidy. These characteristics could be used as indicators of vulnerability to plague risk in plague-endemic areas.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice of dog owners to rabies disease in Kahama town council, Shinyanga region, Tanzania
Authors: Iddi Shabani , Mlenga Farida , Hamasaki Kayo , Mwita Stanley , Konje Eveline
Published: September 2023

Background

Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease of significant public health importance. Domestic dogs are the main reservoir and transmitter of this disease, particularly in developing countries. Community awareness about rabies is one of the key components of prevention. This study describes the knowledge, attitudes, and practices about rabies disease among dog owners at Kahama town council, Shinyanga Region, Tanzania.

Methodology

This was a cross sectional community-based study which was done in May 2021. Structured questionnaires were administered to collect the data among 422 dog owners. The information collected included demographic characteristics of the dog owners, as well as their knowledge, attitude and practice towards rabies. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software version 20.

Results

Out of 422 respondents, 421 (99.76%) knew that rabies can be transmitted by dogs, 384 (91%) knew that rabies can be prevented by vaccination of dogs, 269 (63.74%) knew the symptoms and signs, and 379 (89.81%) believed that it was necessary to vaccinate all owned dogs, but 227 (53.79%) had not vaccinated their dogs. Education level (p = 0.006) and occupation (p = 0.002) were significantly associated with a positive attitude, whereby those with a higher level of education and farmers were more likely to have a positive attitude. Also there was statistically significant association between gender (p = 0.038), marital status (p < 0.001) occupation (p < 0.001), education level (p = 0.006) and the practices of the respondents in the community whereby majority of male, unmarried dog owner who are farmer with primary education level had lower practice score.

Conclusion

This study concludes that respondents had good knowledge, a relatively good attitude, and poor practice towards rabies prevention and control. Rabies awareness with an emphasis on the importance of vaccination as well as vaccination campaigns should, therefore, be intensified, especially among the least educated dog owners.
Local deprivation predicts right-wing hate crime in England
Authors: Belgioioso Margherita , Dworschak Christoph , Gleditsch Kristian Skrede
Published: September 2023

We argue that community deprivation can increase the risk of right-wing radicalization and violent attacks and that measures of local deprivation can help improve forecasting local hate crime rates. A large body of research stresses how experiences of deprivation can erode the perceived legitimacy of political leaders and institutions, increase alienation, and encourage right-wing radicalization and hate crime. Existing analyses have found limited support for a close relationship between deprivation and radicalization among individuals. We provide an alternative approach using highly disaggregated data for England and show that information on local deprivation can improve predictions of the location of right-wing hate crime attacks. Beyond the ability to predict where right-wing hate crime is likely, our results suggest that efforts to decrease deprivation can have important consequences for political violence, and that targeting structural facilitators to prevent far-right violence ex ante can be an alternative or complement to ex post measures.
Mental workload task modeled on office work: Focusing on the flow state for well-being
Authors: Kurosaka Chie , Kuraoka Hiroyuki , Maruyama Takashi
Published: September 2023

This research aimed to objectively evaluate the optimal state of desk work (flow state) through physiological measurements and use the data to support workers’ mental health and well-being. We suppose that the flow state evaluation in real-time can contribute to a concentrated work environment, improved work efficiency, and stabilize worker’s minds. This study reports on the development of the mental task modeled on daily work for the physiological measurement experiment. In the first phase of the research, a field survey was conducted with 55 desk workers to understand the details of their jobs and develop suitable mental tasks. Further, the relationship between daily work content and subjective stress was clarified. In the second phase, based on the results of the field survey, a task inducing the flow state was developed for practical use. Through empirical experiments with 35 participants (22 adults and 13 students), the developed task was evaluated for its usefulness and possible issues by examining the relationships among subjective assessment, task performance, degree of flow state, and individual characteristics. The study results showed that the proposed mental task developed in this study constitutes practical work that can be used for concentrated and goal-directed efforts. The task also demonstrated the property of inducing a flow state. Further, the results suggest that it is necessary to adjust the task difficulty level and implement effective feedback methods to induce the flow state more effectively.
Do survivalists deserve to be called entrepreneurs? The case of hospitality micro-entrepreneurs in Indonesia
Authors: Abdullah Taufik , Lee Craig , Carr Neil
Published: September 2023

Studies in entrepreneurship do not classify survivalists as ‘true’ entrepreneurs because they lack ‘essential’ entrepreneurship characteristics such as an orientation towards innovation and growth. Thus, survivalists are perceived as lesser entrepreneurs or the poorer cousins of opportunity-driven entrepreneurs. This study re-evaluates this perception by focusing on street food vendors because even though they play a significant role in the hospitality industry in many countries, they are often neglected in the hospitality sector and associated academic research. Online, unstructured interviews were conducted with 25 street food vendors in Bandung, Indonesia, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that street food vendors (i.e. survivalists) possess a variety of entrepreneurial characteristics, including achievement orientation, seizing business opportunities, risk-taking behaviour, innovativeness and efficient resource utilization. Thus, it is argued that they deserve to be recognized as entrepreneurs as well.
The combination of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and platelet to lymphocyte ratio improves accuracy of neonatal sepsis diagnosis
Authors: Wilar Rocky , Koesmarsono Beatrice , Gunawan Stefanus
Published: September 2023

Background Neonatal sepsis remains a challenging issue, due to sophisticated and time consuming tests needed to confirm a diagnosis.

Objective To assess the applicability of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) as diagnostic markers in neonatal sepsis.

Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Neonatology Ward of Kandou General Hospital, Manado, North Sulawesi. Neonates with suspected sepsis were included by consecutive sampling. We measured NLR and PLR form hematology profiles and differential count. Diagnosis of neonatal sepsis was based on positive blood cultures. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was done to assess the NLR and PLR cut-off points. Chi-square test was used to analyze the diagnostic value of NLR and PLR.

Results A total of 176 full term neonates with suspected sepsis were included in the study. Of these, 84 (47.7%) subjects were confirmed with neonatal sepsis and 92 (52.3%) were non-sepsis. The mean NLRs were 5.9 (95%CI 2.0 to 13.6) in the sepsis group and 1.6 (95%CI 0.2 to 3.2) in the non-sepsis group. A NLR of 3.0 was determined as the predictive cut-off value of neonatal sepsis (sensitivity 94%, speci?city 97.8%, and area under the ROC curve 0.995). NLR can effects on neonatal sepsis diagnosis by 61% . The mean PLRs were 79.9 (95%CI 44.0 to 155.8) in the sepsis group and 44.0 (95%CI 9.7 to 91.8) in the non-sepsis group. A PLR of 60.4 was determined as the predictive cut-off value of neonatal sepsis (sensitivity 86.9%, speci?city 87%, area under ROC curve 0.928). PLR can effects on neonatal sepsis diagnosis by 47.5%. When NLR and PLR were combined, they can improve accuracy of neonatal sepsis diagnosis about 72.2%.

Conclusion Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) can be used in combination as adjunct diagnostic tests for neonatal sepsis workups.
Does protein intake correlate with tubular function in very preterm neonates?
Authors: Puspitasari Henny Adriani , Trihono Partini Pudjiastuti , Wahidiyat Pustika Amalia
Published: September 2023

Background High protein intake in very preterm neonates (VPN) is important for growth. However, preterm kidneys have fewer functional nephrons and many of the ones present may be immature. Studies have shown that high protein intake induces nephron hypertrophy, proteinuria, and glomerular sclerosis, which lead to tubular injury. Urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) is a biomarker that is released during proximal tubular cell injury. The uNGAL to creatinine (uNGAL/Cr) ratio is commonly performed for normalization.
Objective To assess for a possible association between protein intake and uNGAL/Cr ratio in VPN.
Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted in two NICUs in Jakarta. Subjects’ urine specimens were collected at 0-48 hours, 72 hours, and 21 days after birth to determine uNGAL/Cr ratio as a biomarker of tubular injury. Protein was administered according to study sites NICU guidelines. Protein intake was recorded daily from 14-21 days of age for formula and measured twice with a human milk analyzer for breast milk. ELISA was used to measure uNGAL concentration. Low protein intake was defined as <3g/kg/day and high protein intake was defined as ?3g/kg/day. Maternal and perinatal variables were recorded from medical records.
Results Fifty-nine VPN were recruited, of whom 39 completed the study. Median uNGAL/Cr ratio ranged from 0.32-104.11 ng/mg. The uNGAL/Cr ratio was not correlated with protein intake but was inversely correlated with gestational age and birth weight [r = -0.320, P=0.019 for the 72-hr (T2) urinary collection]. Higher uNGAL/Cr levels were associated with maternal infection [14.4 (range 4.4-104.1) vs 7.2 (range 0.5–32.4) ng/mg, P=0.004 at the 0-48-hr (T1)], maternal anemia [6.9 (range 1.2–66.6) vs 1.7 (range 0.3–89.2) ng/mg, P=0.001 at the 21-day (T3)] and nephrotoxic medication [15.9 (range 1.3–63.8) vs 1.0 (range 0.4–8.6) ng/mg, P=0.026 at the 72-hr].
Conclusion Protein intake according to current nutritional guidelines does not correlate with tubular injury in VPN, as measured by uNGAL/Cr ratio. Maternal infection, maternal anemia, lower birth weight, and nephrotoxic medication, were associated with higher uNGAL/Cr levels in VPN.
Non-invasive diagnosis of liver fibrosis in children with chronic hepatitis B by transient elastography
Authors: Munmun Sayma Rahman , Rukunuzzaman Mohammad , Mazumder Mohammad Wahiduzzaman , Yadav Archana Shrestha , Nahar Luthfun , Benzamin Mohammad , Karim Abu Sayed Mohammad Bazlul
Published: September 2023

Background Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is one of the most alarming global health problems. Children with CHB mostly remain asymptomatic but serious sequelae like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma may develop at any age. Liver biopsy, despite being the gold standard,  is not preferable for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis because it is invasive and painful. Transient elastography, a noninvasive marker for fibrosis, could play an important role in this disease.

Objective To observe the role of transient elastography in the assessment of the progression  of liver damage  in children with chronic hepatitis B.

Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted at The Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, there were a total of 55 cases of CHB. Besides proper clinical history, physical examination, and initial investigation, transient elastography was performed in all of the cases. Liver biopsy was taken in 20 patients with raised serum ALT level after taking proper consent. Elastographic findings were compared with clinical, biochemical, virological, and histological findings.

Results The mean age was 11.46  (SD 3.6) years and 68.7% were male. Most (65.4%) of the patients were asymptomatic at presentation and biochemically normal. Liver stiffness measurements had positive but insignificant correlation with liver biopsy (r=0.43, P=0.06). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, diagnostic accuracy for transient elastography were 80%, 53.3%, 36.3%, 88%, and 60% respectively. Areas under the  ROC curve were 0.76 (95%CI 0.47 to 1.0) for patients with significant fibrosis (F? 2). Using a cut off value of 8.05 kPa, patients with significant fibrosis were detected with a sensitivity, specificity of 80% and 53%, respectively.

Findings of transient elastography were significantly associated with clinical findings like anaemia, jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, stigmata of CLD and biochemical findings like  serum ALT, AST as well as  virological parameters.

Conclusion  Transient elastography has a limited role in confirming a diagnosis of significant fibrosis. But because of good sensitivity, transient elastography can be used as an initial presumptive diagnostic tool for assessing significant hepatic fibrosis.  A cut off value of less than 8.05 in transient elastography can be used for exclusion of significant fibrosis.
The effects of large-scale social restriction during the covid-19 pandemic on glycemic control and occurrence of complications in children with type-1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Effendy Sahara , Wandita Setya , Julia Madarina
Published: September 2023

Background The global pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by the coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has resulted in a national large-scale social restriction (LSSR) to limit the spread of the virus.

Objective To determine the impacts of LSSR on glycemic controls and the occurrence of complications in type-1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) children.   

Methods A retrospective longitudinal study was carried out in Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta. Subjects were 0-18 years old T1DM patients diagnosed before the LSSR with at least six months of disease. Data on demographics, T1DM status, HbA1c level, and complications pre-LSSR, and during LSSR were taken from medical records. Paired T-tests were used to assess the difference in HbA1c level between the two-time points

Results: We included information on 21 children based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Their median (range) age was 13.9 (1.42-17.3) years, with a median (range) diabetes duration of 2.6 (0.0-10.92) years. Glycemic control improved in 76% of the children. The mean  HbA1c before and during LSSR was 10.9 (SD 2.7) and. 9.7 (SD 2.3), respectively; P<0.05. The glycemic control was not associated with sex, age, duration of diabetes, travel time to the clinic, or a total daily insulin dose. There was also no significant difference in the occurrence of complications.

Conclusion Despite limitations during LSSR, glycemic control improved in most patients with T1DM. This might be related to improved health awareness during the pandemic, more regular meals, and better parental control.
Developing trauma-informed teacher education in England
Authors: Boylan Mark , Truelove Lynne , Pearse Sally , O’Brien Sue , Sheehan Helen , Cowell Tony , Long Eleanor
Published: September 2023

Trauma-informed practice in education is an area of growing interest in England and internationally. Embracing trauma-informed practice in schools requires trauma and related content to be included in teacher education. Over a period of eight years, a short course was developed and incorporated into the teacher preparation programmes at a large university in England. Through methods of teacher educator self-study and autoethnography, we examine the process of the course’s development and identify mechanisms, enablers and barriers to change in the current policy context of teacher education in England. Important factors that supported change were the gradual development, external collaboration, positive outcomes as a warrant and source of motivation, the development of champions and enthusiasts for trauma-informed practice, and departmental leadership support. Barriers to the development were the constraints of prescribed content on initial teacher education courses, prevailing practices in some schools and settings, challenges in adapting material suitably for all education phases, and some beginning teachers’ responses to personally relevant course content. The successful introduction of the short course demonstrates that inclusion of trauma-informed content in initial teacher education is possible even in an unfavourable policy environment.
The educational process of Ukrainian university students following the full-scale Russian invasion
Authors: Polovko Olena , Glotov Sergei
Published: September 2023

On 24 February 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which is now in its second year. The invasion disrupted higher education institutions across the country and forced both staff and students to adapt to the new reality. This article focuses on the experiences of university students to understand how their educational process was impacted by the invasion. The research data comprise written testimonies from 81 students at the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Thematic analysis of the data resulted in three themes: organisation of studies by the university; self-organisation of studies; and personal experiences. The article concludes that the invasion shifted the educational process online; however, students are often prevented from accessing the virtual classrooms due to constant air raids, power outages and connectivity issues with the internet, thus leading students towards more self-studying.