bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oppression and Possession—Indigenous Wisdom and a Modern View of Episcopal Exorcism
Authors: Raining Hillary
Published: July 2024

The Rite of Exorcism is a controversial topic. Jesus, a prolific spiritual healer who cast out many demons in the name of the Kingdom of God, was not without his detractors either. His healings on the Sabbath were some of the primary evidence used against him leading up to his crucifixion. Even his disciples did not always understand his methods and could not perform exorcisms at times (Mk. 9:14-29). Thus, it is unsurprising that at different times in the last 2000 years, the use of the Rite has ebbed and flowed—almost reaching a fever-pitch at times, while sinking into obscurity at others. In the Episcopal tradition, exorcisms as an active ministry of the modern church can be feared, ignored, or scoffed at. Some of the disuse of the Rites of Exorcism are rightly due to the fact that we understand much more about the mental and physical health of humans than we did in ancient times. What many used to attribute to demonic forces can now be more widely understood as mental illness. Thus, many Episcopalians do not even know that there are provisions for exorcisms in our tradition: They assume those ritual acts of spiritual healing fall into the “primitive” past, when people did not have an understanding of mental illness. Even today, Native Americans suffer from a similar stereotype, viewed condescendingly as “savage,” with their spiritual healing practices dismissed. This pattern is especially true in the Anglican/Episcopal tradition, which has followed a similar journey as the Roman Catholic liturgical tradition, as well as the Protestant Enlightenment and the Charismatic Renewal Movement. One might expect that our current culture, saturated by enlightenment thinking, with its emphasis on all things rational and empirically proven data, would be poised to abandon it altogether. Yet, the data show that the desire for exorcisms and the belief in spiritual phenomena, including evil possession, is rising. This article will examine some of the reasons exorcisms have been repressed in the past and the lessons we should use to shape our current use of the rite of exorcisms. Pulling from the authors own research (including interviews with several Episcopal Exorcists and traditional Ojibwe healers) and experience as an Episcopal Priest and member of The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa, this paper explores trauma informed and Native American models for spiritual healing as examples of how the church might use exorcisms in its current cultural milieu.
Conducting Electrospun Poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) Nanofibers: New Strategies for Effective Chemical Doping and its Assessment Using Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Arrigoni Alessia , Brambilla Luigi , Bertarelli Chiara , Saporiti Carlo , Castiglioni Chiara
Published: July 2024

Vibrational spectroscopy allows the investigation of structural properties of pristine and doped poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) in highly anisotropic materials, such as electrospun micro- and nanofibers. Here, we compare several approaches for doping P3HT fibers. We have selected two different electron acceptor molecules as dopants, namely iodine and 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ). In the case of iodine, we have explored the doping of the fibers according to several different procedures, i.e., by sequential doping both in vapors and in solution, and with a novel promising one-step method, which exploits the mixing of the dopant to the electrospinning feed solution. Polarized infrared (IR) spectroscopy experiments prove the orientation of P3HT chains, with the polymer backbone mainly running parallel to the fiber axis. After doping, P3HT fibers show very strong and polarized doping-induced IR active vibrations (IRAVs), which are the spectroscopic signature of the structure relaxation induced by the charged defects (polarons), thus providing an unambiguous proof of the effective doping. Raman spectroscopy complements the IR evidence: The Raman spectrum shows a clearly recognizable shift of the main band, the so-called effective conjugation coordinate band, in the doped samples. A simple protocol, which quantifies the evolution of the IRAV bands with time, allows monitoring of the doping stability over time and confirms that F4TCNQ is by far superior to iodine.
Automated tools for identifying the causes of anaemia in general practices are particularly advantageous for patients who do not fit the typical profile
Authors: de Boer Bauke A , van Laar Tatum T , Candido Firmin , van Stralen Karlijn J , de Jong Anne Margreet
Published: July 2024

Background

The Dutch guideline algorithm for the analysis of anaemia in patients of general practitioners (GPs) was programmed in a Clinical Decision Support system (CDS-anaemia) to support the process of diagnosing the cause of anaemia in the laboratory. This research aims to assess the supplementary benefit provided by the automated algorithm in various demographic categories, including different sexes, age groups and severities of anaemia, in comparison to the manual diagnostic approach employed by GPs.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 5399 primary care patients where the cause of anaemia was diagnosed by GPs with or without the aid of CDS-anaemia within the age groups 18–44, 45–64, 65–79 and 80 and older. Anaemia was defined according to the Dutch College of General Practitioners (DCGP) guideline. Causes of anaemia were based on the DCGP guidelines with the corresponding blood tests. By calculation of rate ratios and percentage differences of the determined cause of anaemia we evaluated the effect of the diagnostic algorithm.

Results and conclusion

The percentage patients in which an underlying cause of anaemia was found increased 34 and 46 percentage points in females and males, respectively, when GPs were supported by CDS-anaemia compared to GPs who were not supported by CDS-anaemia. The highest increase in percentage points when CDS-anaemia was used, was found in younger- and middle-aged males and mild or moderate anaemia.
Variation in liver function testing and the effect of pyridoxal-5-phosphate on ALT, AST and FIB-4 results
Authors: Evans Charlotte , MacKenzie Finlay , Marrington Rachel
Published: July 2024

Background

As one of the most requested profiles of blood tests, there is a need for standardization among liver function tests (LFT). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are key markers of hepatocellular injury. ALT and AST are used to calculate a Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) score for assessing liver fibrosis. Despite recommendations by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) to include pyridoxal-5-phosphate in ALT and AST assay methodologies, most laboratories continue to omit this.

Methods

Data from the UK NEQAS for Clinical Chemistry Scheme, Distribution 1160 (November 2023), was reviewed to investigate variation in practice regarding liver blood tests in relation to ALT, AST and FIB-4. In addition, a series of questions audited laboratory practice in relation to liver enzymes.

Results

Wide variation was seen in LFT profiles offered by laboratories, with 32 different combinations of tests used. The IFCC-recommended methods for ALT and AST are used by one-third of laboratories and give significantly higher results than non-IFCC methods. Laboratories using IFCC methods also reported significantly higher FIB-4 scores. Reference ranges and cut-offs for these tests also varied, and did not account for method-related differences in results.

Conclusions

The lack of standardization of LFTs can have a significant impact on patient care. The difference in results for ALT, AST and FIB-4 in laboratories not using IFCC-recommended methods may lead to misdiagnosis. This issue should be addressed by laboratories using methods including pyridoxal-5-phosphate. Until then, method-related reference ranges and cut-offs for ALT, AST and FIB-4 are required.
Courageous Role Model or Threatening Villain: A Parallel Mediation Model of Corporate Activism and Citizen Political Engagement
Authors: Appels Moritz , Edinger-Schons Laura Marie , Korschun Daniel
Published: July 2024

Through their sociopolitical activism, business leaders increasingly call for citizens to become more politically engaged in favor of a partisan position. This research develops and tests a framework that reveals that corporate sociopolitical activism can indeed elicit such political engagement but runs the risk of simultaneously inciting backlash from citizens who oppose the company’s envisioned political ends. Whereas politically congruent citizens perceive a company’s activism to be morally courageous and are thus inspired to support the company’s stance, politically incongruent citizens feel threatened by the company’s activism and become politically engaged in protection of their political identity. Companies may, however, succeed in increasing moral courage attributions without simultaneously affecting citizens’ political identity threat by acting as first movers in their activism. A series of experiments, including a stimulus sampling approach with 30 real cases of corporate sociopolitical activism, lend support for this framework. The results provide several implications for the political responsibilities of business leaders in contemporary democracies.
The Role of Ultrasound in Pediatric Peritonsillar Infection: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Wohlford Luke , Trotter Zola , Connell Mary , Bhattarai Bikash , Pandya Siddharth
Published: July 2024

In this study, we describe the role of ultrasound in diagnosing pediatric peritonsillar abscesses (PTAs). A retrospective chart review was conducted on 54 children aged 4 to 17 years who had an ultrasound performed for suspected PTA. Based on ultrasound imaging, the patients were classified into 2 groups: PTA-positive (8, 14.8%) and PTA-negative (46, 85.2 %). Trismus was significantly associated with PTA (50% vs. 13%, P = .03). PTA-positive patients were more likely to be given steroids, be admitted, and have extended hospital stays ( P = .04, .004, and .002, respectively). The 2 groups had no significant difference in computed tomography (CT) acquisition, surgical intervention, and return visits ( P = .92, .17, and .97, respectively). Larger abscesses trended toward surgical treatment ( P = .087). Ultrasound is an efficient diagnostic modality for suspected peritonsillar infections in children, with similar clinical outcomes for PTA-positive and PTA-negative groups.
Constrained Choice? The Role of Co-Offenders and Structural Context in the Decision to Escalate Interpersonal Violence
Authors: Wenger Marin R. , Lantz Brendan , Pupo Jhon A.
Published: July 2024

Over the past decade, research on human agency and choice has grown within the field of criminology. However, most of this research has focused on the initial decision to offend, with less of a focus on the choices made during an offense. The current study addresses this gap by focusing on the role of situational and structural context in decisions during instances of interpersonal violence. Using data about violent incidents from the 2016 National Incident Based Reporting System and the American Community Survey, we estimate hierarchical regression models to examine the impact of one situational factor (the presence of co-offenders) and one contextual factor (structural disadvantage) on victim injury. Findings reveal that co-offenders and disadvantage both independently and additively impact the extent of victim injury, suggesting that situational and contextual factors operate to constrain offender choices during an offense, by escalating (or de-escalating) instances of interpersonal violence.
Effect of Early Interactions With the Police on Intertemporal Choice: A Longitudinal Study of Zurich Public School Students
Authors: Deitzer Jessica R. , Frankenhuis Willem E. , Ribeaud Denis , Eisner Manuel , van Gelder Jean-Louis
Published: July 2024

Adolescents tend to increase their offending after police contact, contrary to predictions of choice-based theories. This may be due to police contact altering their view of their future prospects, leading them to prioritize the present. Preregistered fixed effects analyses of longitudinal data collected from Zurich public school students provide no support for an association between police contact and a change in impulsivity, sensation-seeking, or future orientation. Exploratory analyses find evidence that first-time and especially early contact with the police is associated with an increase in sensation-seeking and a reduction in future orientation. We conclude that certain types of police contact may increase young adolescents’ preference for the present. Future research should test whether this relationship is causal and generalizable.
Determinants of Hate Crime Against Religiously and Socially Marginalized Groups in India
Authors: Bhai Patel Avanish , Kumar Sumant , Sivakumar Vineetha
Published: July 2024

The cases of hate crime have been committed and are being committed against marginalized groups based on their caste, class, ethnicity, race, and religion. The hatred and discrimination have also arisen fear, insult, tension, and trolling among marginalized groups. The study aims to understand nature of hate crime in the socio-cultural context of India using the theoretical framework of social identity theory. The present study employs ontological textual analysis for examining hate crime. The data have been collected through various Indian newspapers. The cases of hate crime have been collected from year 2018 to 2020. The study reveals that a large portion of hate crimes stem from false information, rumors, and hate speech that are spread on social media platforms.
The Mediation Role of Teacher Recognition Between Transformational Leadership and Teacher Professionalism: A Multilevel Mediation Analysis
Authors: Zhang Ying
Published: July 2024

Given the significant influence of managerial reforms in education fields, how to promote teacher professionalism appears to be a priority task for school leaders. This study examined the mediation role of teacher recognition on the association between transformative leadership and teacher professionalism. From a sample of 1196 primary and secondary school teachers nested in 98 schools from mainland China, this study used the multilevel structuration equation model to explore the associations among the study variables on both the teacher level and school level simultaneously. On the teacher level, the results showed that transformative leadership was positively related to teacher professionalism and verified the mediation role of teacher recognition for social esteem. On the school level, transformative leadership was associated with teacher professionalism through the mediation role of recognition for care. This study suggests that transformative leadership may influence teacher professionalism via teacher recognition on both individual and school levels, while the influence mechanism could be different.
La letteratura nella didattica dell’italiano a stranieri: l’eredità di Leonardo Sciascia
Authors: Pioli Marco
Published: July 2024

Alla luce delle riletture critiche promosse dal recente centenario sciasciano, e del rinnovato interesse per il rapporto di Leonardo Sciascia con la realtà scolastica, con il presente studio si intende indagare un aspetto sinora rimasto ai margini della riflessione esegetica e pedagogica sull’autore, ossia quello della sua presenza nei materiali didattici di natura letteraria destinati agli studenti d’italiano come lingua straniera o seconda. L’indagine definirà innanzitutto le peculiarità dell’insegnamento linguistico e letterario nel contesto indicato e poi passerà a esaminare le principali risorse messe a disposizione di insegnanti e apprendenti soprattutto dal settore editoriale italiano, con il duplice obiettivo di sostenere l’opportunità glottodidattica della letteratura e di uno scrittore, Sciascia, che non ha mai smesso di essere un maestro.
Racial minority CEOs, board characteristics, and skilled migrant hiring
Authors: Kim Eunbi
Published: July 2024

Chief executive officers (CEOs) are generally expected to make strategic decisions in pursuit of their firms’ best interests. Nevertheless, CEO decisions can be made upon noneconomic factors, such as their personal values and their relationship with the board. Building on upper echelons theory and CEO–board power dynamics literature, I examine how racial minority CEOs influence firms’ skilled migrant hiring, moderated by board characteristics that potentially constrain CEO decision-making authority. I analyze whether and how Fortune 500 firms’ skilled migrant hiring patterns (2009–2019) vary by CEO race and the level of board political conservatism/white dominance. I find support for my hypotheses that organizations with racial minority CEOs tend to hire more skilled migrants, but that such hiring decisions can be hampered by board characteristics that activate the CEOs’ value threat as minorities. I highlight the importance of organizational contexts, where the leaders are situated, in achieving organizational competitiveness and diversity. My findings contribute to literatures on CEO–board power dynamics as well as CEO diversity and strategic human resource management.
International Remittances and Household Expenditure Patterns in Bangladesh
Authors: Dey Sima Rani , Ahmed Faroque
Published: July 2024

The study endeavours to investigate how the transfers of international remittances influence the expenditure behaviour of returnee migrant families in Bangladesh. The primary data were collected using the multi-stage stratified random sampling technique through a structured questionnaire from Tangail and Comilla on several expenditure characteristics of migrants. Propensity score matching (PSM) method is employed to assess the impact of remittances on expenditure patterns of returnee migrant households through the estimation of average treatment effects on the treated. The PSM technique has allowed us to evaluate the impact of remittances on several expenditure categories such as food, non-food, education, medical and so on. The study findings divulge that remittances exhibit a significant and positive impact on poverty reduction since they have contributed a lot in terms of income generation and increment of consumption expenditures. Moreover, compared to non-migrant families, migrant families are more exposed to positive behavioural transformations because of their spending on productive investments like non-durable goods, education and health care. Therefore, the findings underline the optimistic view of migration and development theory that foreign remittances support to increase the investments both in the physical and human capital of migrant families as well as to improve the wellbeing of Bangladeshi people.

JEL Codes: D10, F24, O15
Fromm-Reichmann’s (1959/1990) Real Loneliness in the Contemporary United States
Authors: Bland Andrew M.
Published: July 2024

In recent years, researchers have noted higher levels of loneliness among younger generations in the United States compared to Europe and Asia, and last year, the U.S. Surgeon General released an advisory about the nation’s loneliness epidemic. Sixty-five years ago, Frieda Fromm-Reichmann published a groundbreaking paper on the topic of real loneliness—which she described as uncommunicable, characterized by a high degree of experiential avoidance, and central in the etiology of psychopathology. Today, that conceptualization seems more relevant than ever and may be helpful for understanding the national differences in loneliness. To supplement Fromm-Reichmann’s recommendation to account for developmental history in real loneliness, in this article, I submit that a broader and deeper understanding of macro- and chronosystemic dimensions also is needed. I validate contextual factors that play into loneliness in the contemporary United States which are already discussed in the literature. Then I explore additional ones—technocracy and cultural disconnection, competitiveness at the expense of cooperation, and, consequently, psychological polarization.
The three-parent baby: Medicolegal, forensic and ethical concerns
Authors: Chitara Nandini , Krishan Kewal , Kanchan Tanuj
Published: July 2024

In the recent past, human genetics and in vitro fertilization (IVF) have undergone various advances to combat with several congenital and developmental disorders. These advances are a boon for the families and patients who were restricted from having a child due to one or the other reasons. One such reason is the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations, which are definitely transmitted from the mother to the child due to uniparental/maternal inheritance of mitochondria. Depending upon the range of the mutation (mutation loads) present, the mtDNA mutation leads to various devitalizing to fatal disorders, all of which are incurable. Scientists and researchers developed a technique known as mitochondrial donation technique or mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) to combat with the mtDNA mutations. The technique relies on the replacement of faulty mitochondria in the mother's egg with the normal wild-type from a donor female resulting in a “three-parent baby.” On the other side, forensic scientists and anthropologists continuously explore the mtDNA in various medicolegal cases and in uncoupling the mystery of human origin and migration respectively. In this regard, we explored the genetic, forensic and ethical aspects of a “three-parent baby.” The present communication also attempts to highlight the importance and limitations of the MRT technique/three-parent baby in a medicolegal context.
Proposing a Universal Measure of Program Readiness for Adults in Custody: A Pilot Study
Authors: Buckner Zachary , Kaiser Kimberly
Published: July 2024

Offender readiness is important to the success of substance abuse and therapeutic programs. Prisons provide a variety of programs, including reentry, vocational, and creative programs that have been shown to improve reentry success. And yet, the concept of program readiness has not been examined in these contexts. We explore the development of a broader measure of program readiness. Toward this goal, we developed a preliminary generalized program readiness measure for correctional programming more broadly. Results supported a two-factor measure, desire for help and recognition of program needs. These findings support continued research and development of a generalized program readiness measure.
Tiredness of Life – Conceptualizing a Complex Phenomenon
Authors: Appel Judith E. , van Wijngaarden Els , Dezutter Jessie
Published: July 2024

A phenomenon referred to as ‘tiredness of life’ or ‘weariness of life’ appears in current discussions on the legitimacy of euthanasia for relatively healthy older adults as well as in research on suicidality more broadly. However, a consensus conceptualization of the phenomenon is lacking. In the current paper, we offer such a conceptualization by reviewing and integrating knowledge from terminology, available descriptions, and first qualitative findings. Boredom with life, aversion towards life, meaninglessness, and fatigue are identified as central components of the phenomenon. Per component, we describe how the component was identified, our definition of the component and its foundation in descriptions in the literature, and empirical studies on how the component relates to euthanasia requests and suicidality. Moreover, hypotheses on the structure of the phenomenon are outlined, such as on interactions among and the importance of the different components.
Effect of Childcare Influenza Vaccine Requirement on Vaccination Rates, New York City, 2012-2020
Authors: Metroka Amy E. , Papadouka Vikki , Ternier Alexandra , Cheng Iris , Zucker Jane R.
Published: July 2024

Objectives:

In 2014, New York City initiated a childcare influenza vaccine requirement to increase influenza vaccination rates among children aged 6-59 months attending city-regulated childcare, including prekindergarten. We evaluated the requirement’s effect on vaccination rates in childcare-aged children in New York City.

Methods:

We examined influenza vaccination rates in children aged 6-59 months and by age groups of 1, 2, 3, and 4 years for 8 influenza seasons (2012-2013 through 2019-2020), representing 2 seasons before the requirement, 2 seasons during the requirement, 2 seasons after its suspension, and 2 seasons after its reinstatement. We also assessed rates in a comparison group of children aged 5-8 years. We performed a difference-in-differences analysis to compare rate differences in age groups when the requirement was and was not in effect. We considered P < .05 as significant based on the Wald χ2 test.

Results:

Influenza vaccination rates among children aged 6-59 months increased 3.7 percentage points (from 47.7% to 51.4%) by the requirement’s second year and declined 6.7 percentage points to 44.7% after suspension. After reinstatement, rates increased 10.7 percentage points to 55.4%. Rate changes were most pronounced among 4-year-olds, increasing 12.7 percentage points (from 45.3% to 58.0%) by the requirement’s second year, declining 14.1 percentage points to 43.9% after suspension, and increasing 22.2 percentage points to 66.1% after reinstatement. In the comparison group, rates increased 4.9 percentage points (from 36.5% to 41.4%) after reinstatement. Rates increased significantly among 4-year-olds before versus at the initial requirement and decreased significantly after suspension. After reinstatement, rates increased significantly among all groups except 1-year-olds.

Conclusion:

The New York City influenza vaccine requirement improved influenza vaccination rates among preschool-aged children, adding to the evidence base showing that vaccine requirements raise vaccination rates.
Loadshedding, safety concerns, and mental health in South Africa
Authors: Marchetti-Mercer Maria C , Laher Sumaya , Watermeyer Jennifer , Hassem Tasneem
Published: July 2024

Persistent power cuts, known as loadshedding, have become a disruptive fixture in South African daily life, affecting routines and economic stability. In this commentary, we argue that much attention has been given to the economic impact and political ramifications linked to loadshedding, but its psychological toll on the population has been largely overlooked. Access to electricity must be regarded as a basic human right as it is closely linked with the enjoyment of various rights like human dignity, proper housing, water, and healthcare. The lack of comprehensive research on the mental health impacts of loadshedding needs to be addressed more so against the background of the socio-psychological impact of COVID-19. Preliminary research findings indicate that ongoing loadshedding disrupts daily routines, potentially leading to safety concerns, stress, anxiety, mental strain, and isolation. The lack of safety, exacerbated by power cuts, increases vulnerability to crime and strains societal cohesion. Taken together, this may heighten the likelihood of the development of continuous traumatic stress (CTS). Despite the National Mental Health Policy framework acknowledging threats to mental health, loadshedding is omitted, highlighting a need for recognition of its impact. Acknowledging loadshedding’s silent impact is crucial, especially considering its exacerbation of safety concerns and vulnerability to CTS. A shift in perspective is needed, moving mental health from a luxury to a necessity. Psychologists are urged to advocate for mental health services and community-based solutions, emphasising collective responsibility in addressing the mental health crisis compounded by ongoing loadshedding.
Resilience to structural violence: an exploration of the multisystemic resources that enable youth hope
Authors: Ncube Bongiwe , Theron Linda , Haffejee Sadiyya
Published: July 2024

Youth in structurally violent environments emphasise hope when explaining their resilience. Even so, the multisystemic resources that enable hope (also over time) are relatively underreported for African young people. In response to this gap, we report a qualitative study that identified the hope-enabling resources that contributed to the resilience of two samples of African youth aged 15–24 and living in the township of eMbalenhle, South Africa. Using Draw-Write-Talk methodology, the 2017 sample ( n = 30; Mage = 18.6; 56% male youth) and 2018 sample ( n = 7; Mage = 18.4; 85% female youth) generated visual and narrative data of their experiences of hope enablers. A thematic analysis showed that a multisystemic mix of contextually relevant resources typically explained youth capacity for hope in the face of structural violence. Four resources informed this mix: personal strengths, faith-based beliefs, positive personal relationships, and tangible sources of inspiration. This contextually relevant mix, and its putative durability over time, has implications for how psychologists and policymakers support youth in structurally violent contexts to be hopefully resilient.
A Comparative Model of Mysticism: Cognitive Neuroscience, Phenomenal Experiences, and Noetic Accounts
Authors: Trivedi Hemal P
Published: July 2024

This article proposes a model of comparative mysticism that bases its rationale for comparison in the dynamic interaction between three components: neurocognitive mechanisms and substrates, phenomenal experiences, and noetic accounts. In examining the phenomenon of ego- dissolution ( EDn), using this model, a scholar can identify universal and contextual components of a mystic’s experiences. The neurocognitive component is derived from neuroscientific studies including brain injury, psychedelics, and meditative practices. The phenomenal and noetic components are derived from personal accounts as narrated by the mystics themselves. These three components will be applied to the ego- dissolution experiences of the modern Indian mystic Sadhguru (1957–Present), the medieval Spanish mystic Teresa of Ávila (1515–1583), and individuals, including scientists, using the psychedelics psilocybin and LSD. This model should introduce an alternative approach to comparative mysticism as a response to the long-standing debate between Walter T. Stace’s essentialist model and Steven T. Katz’s contextualist model, respectively. In particular, the neurocognitive component should function as a bridge providing a deeper level of analysis encompassing and undermining differences between universalist and contextualist reductions. The advent of comparative mysticism may be seen as a collaborative effort that is multidisciplinary in nature, contributing to theology, religious studies, philosophy, history, cognitive neuroscience, and many other disciplines.
Prevalence and correlates of insomnia and fatigue in patients with type 2 diabetes in Jordan
Authors: Shannag Salam , Al-Jabari Sereene , Sbitan Lana , Alsheyyab Jafar , Zeitoon Sa’ed , Hanandeh Suzan , Alsous Mervat , Gammoh Omar
Published: July 2024

Objective

The present study examined the prevalence and correlates of insomnia and fatigue in patients with type-2 diabetes in Jordan.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional online study involving a convenience sample of 390 patients with type-2 diabetes. Insomnia was assessed by the Insomnia-Severity Index (ISI-A) and fatigue by the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI-A).

Results

Severe insomnia was present in 132 patients (33.8%), and was correlated with length of diabetes (diagnosis >5 years) (OR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.19-3.81, P = 0.01), presence of uncontrolled diabetes (OR = 1.97, 95% CI = 1.45-2.69, P < 0.001), taking gabapentin (OR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.07-4.01, P = 0.003), and age (<40 years) (OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.13-0.69, P = 0.005). Significant fatigue was also prevalent and correlated with gender (female) (B = 9.25, t = 4.48, P < 0.001), age (<40 years) (B = 7.56, t = 2.56, P = 0.01), a diagnosis of hypertension (B = 4.74, t = 2.03, P = 0.04), uncontrolled diabetes (B = 7.21, t = 4.82, P < 0.001), and taking a sulfonylurea (B = 8.03, t = 3.37, P < 0.001), carbamazepine (B = 10.93, t = 2.65, P = 0.008), or gabapentin (B = 12.60, t = 3.83, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Given the high prevalence of insomnia and fatigue in this population, increased attention by primary healthcare providers to these symptoms in diabetic patients is warranted, particularly in developing countries such as Jordan.
How Long, O Lord? Fairbairn’s Object Relations Theory and the Practice of Lament
Authors: Poston John M.
Published: July 2024

The biblical practice of lament has been largely neglected in many modern evangelical Christian contexts in the United States, despite increasing calls to reclaim this spiritual practice. This loss of lament is not without cost, and various negative impacts on individuals and communities have been suggested in the literature. The present article argues that lament cannot be reclaimed by commending its practice only, but psychological obstacles to lament must also be identified and addressed. Toward this end, a view is advanced that lament may be understood as an emotionally dynamic relational act, and that Fairbairn’s object relations theory—including his notion of the moral defense—illuminates dynamics that make lament difficult for some people to engage in fully and authentically, if at all. Practical implications for navigating these dynamics and facilitating greater engagement with lament are discussed to aid the work of those involved in mental health and soul care.
On the Roots of Epistemological Sexism and its Impact on Public Administration Scholarship and Praxis
Authors: Mastracci Sharon
Published: July 2024

Bureaucratic neutrality norms render emotions problematic in the workplace largely due to presumptions that emotions cloud reasoning. This article traces the origins of bureaucratic neutrality to 17th-century Cartesian mind/body dualism. However, in Descartes’s correspondence with contemporary philosopher Elisabeth of Bohemia, he retreats from strict dualism in reaction to her argument that emotions may actually inform decision making. Elisabeth’s critique stays lost to history due in part to the epistemological sexism underpinning bureaucratic neutrality and public administration. Structural Topic Modeling reveals embodied reasoning and interpersonal interdependence in Elisabeth’s critique, undermining the strict mind/body dualism that lurks in both bureaucratic neutrality and public administration.
The Politics of Ear Mutilation: Cropping an Enslaved Person in the Gospel Passion Narratives
Authors: Soon Isaac T.
Published: July 2024

This article challenges a slaveholder perspective of the treatment of the high priest’s enslaved agent in the canonical gospels. It seeks to demonstrate how ancient traditions and practices of ear cropping and facial mutilation, especially of enslaved folks, give insight into the significance of the enslaved agent’s treatment in the gospels. Far from being a mere plot device, the enslaved person who is maimed is a site of political knowledge that has simultaneous implications for our understanding of the enslaved agent themselves, the mutilating disciple, and Jesus. While the vast majority of interpreters of the passage view the maiming of Malchus’s ear as unimportant, a close analysis of contexts where ears are mutilated, maimed, and cropped provides a useful framework for rereading the episode in each of the gospels. After analyzing the contexts of ear cropping, from ancient Southwest Asia to second-century literature, I re-read each version of the episode from a narrative-critical point of view. In light of ancient accounts of cropping and mutilation, I find that the mutilating disciple’s behavior in the gospels was not heroic, that the enslaved person retains no agency, and that Jesus is complicit in the disciple’s actions against the high-priest’s agent.
Factors Related to Cholesteatoma Formation in External Auditory Canal Osteomas and Treatment Algorithm
Authors: Hu Chih-Yu , Chen Shih-Lung , Zhang Bang-Yan , Chan Kai-Chieh
Published: July 2024

Objectives: Osteomas in the external auditory canal (EAC) can lead to stenosis, and impair epithelium migration and self-cleaning capability, thereby trapping keratinized epithelium and triggering the development of cholesteatoma. Our study aims to identify the risk of cholesteatoma development in patients with osteoma and proposes a stepwise approach to managing patients with EAC osteoma. Methods: The maximum diameter of the osteoma was measured in axial and coronal views on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). We calculated the relative obstruction ratio caused by the osteoma in the axial and coronal views. Prior to surgery, otoscopy was employed to identify pedicle formation. The patients were categorized into 2 groups based on the presence of cholesteatoma. Results: We identified 43 patients diagnosed with EAC osteoma. A total of 9 (20.9%) patients with EAC osteomas developed cholesteatoma and the other 34 (79.1%) did not. The maximum diameter of osteomas with and without cholesteatoma was 12.67 ± 4.09 and 7.67 ± 3.27 mm, respectively ( P < .001). In the group without cholesteatoma, 21 osteomas had pedicles while the other 13 did not. In the cholesteatoma group, 2 osteomas had pedicles and 7 did not ( P = .037). No difference was observed in the relative obstruction ratio between these 2 groups. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that larger osteomas are more likely to develop cholesteatoma, while the formation of a pedicle may reduce the occurrence of cholesteatoma. In symptomatic patients, preoperative evaluation, including HRCT and otoscopy, is vital for assessing the extent of the osteoma and the potential coexistence of cholesteatoma. These factors are critical for preoperative consultations and surgical planning.
A Novel Imaging Device for Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy
Authors: Yang Ningning , Wang Yi , Li Tiantian , Ren Guangqun , Zhao Changzheng , Wang Chunting , Liu Chunli
Published: July 2024

Objective: The purpose of this article is to introduce a novel imaging device and technique for percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) and evaluate its clinical application. Methods: We have modified the bronchoscope to generate a novel imaging device. The handle of the bronchoscope was removed and replaced with added fixation pieces to secure the new device to the endotracheal tube. Nine mechanically ventilated patients admitted to the intensive care department of Shandong Public Health Clinical Center who underwent PDT between July 2023 and January 2024 have been treated with this novel imaging device. The number of medical staff members needed for the operation, number of needle interventions, operation time, arterial blood gas analysis, and intraoperative complications were observed. Results: Three medical staff were involved in the procedure: an operator, an assistant, and a nurse. The first attempted needle intervention was successful in all patients, and no serious complications such as major bleeding, pneumothorax, mediastinal emphysema, accidental extubation, desaturation, hypercarbia, respiratory acidosis, hemodynamic abnormality, or posterior tracheal puncture occurred. The average time was 11.63 ± 1.56 minutes from skin incision to the needle insertion and 4.43 ± 1.99 minutes from needle insertion to tracheal placement. Conclusions: PDT guided by the novel device is safe, preserves human resources, saves operating space, keeps the view stable, and makes the procedure easy. It is worthy of further research and application.
The Treatment Expectation Questionnaire Tool: A Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Evaluation in Turkey
Authors: Cakir Furkan , Gercek Hasan , Ozturk Sergen , Kuru Colak Tugba , Sari Zubeyir , Polat Mine Gulden
Published: July 2024

Patients’ general treatment expectations are an important indicator of the outcomes of the various treatments they will receive. There is a need for valid and reliable assessment tools that measure the expectations of patients receiving rehabilitation services. This study aimed to translate and validate the Treatment Expectations Questionnaire (TR.TEX-Q) in Turkish patients to assess their treatment-specific expectations. 150 physiotherapy patients were enrolled in the study. The original version of the Treatment Expectation Questionnaire was translated into Turkish. Cronbach’s α was used to investigate internal consistency. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to assess test–retest reliability. Pearsons’s correlation was used to calculate convergent and divergent validity. Principal component analysis produced a 15-items scale which had a 6-factors structure. Cronbach’s α values ranged from .649 to .879. Test–retest reliability was high for total score and for all subscales. The ICC was between .622 and .852, p < .001. TR.TEX-Q showed good convergent validity, a moderate correlation was found between the Positivity Scale (rho = .45, p < .001). For divergent validity, low to moderate correlation was found between the TR.TEX-Q and the HADS scores. The Turkish version of Treatment Expectation Questionnaire has good reliability and validity data in terms of evaluating the treatment expectations of patients who will receive physiotherapy.
Early career gender differences in job burnout trajectories in Finland: Roles of work, family, and financial resources
Authors: Fang Yirou , Tang Xin , Salmela-Aro Katariina
Published: July 2024

The gender gap in job burnout research indicates that women score higher on job burnout. However, this gender difference has rarely been studied from developmental perspectives. Moreover, the underlying gender differences in job resources—driven by gendered socialization in early career years—have been under-investigated. The present study examined the trajectory of early career job burnout, gender differences in job burnout development, and gendered job resources. Results from latent growth curve modeling ( N = 619, 65.3% women, ages 26–34), using the longitudinal data from three time points (2013–2020), showed that the trajectory of job burnout was decreasing in early career years, and this pattern did not vary between genders. As expected, women scored higher in job burnout. Gender differences in job resources were found: parenthood status only prevented job burnout for women, whereas income and partner support only prevented job burnout for men. Belongingness to the workplace prevented job burnout for both genders. Findings suggest that young adults make use of job resources from their socialization in early career years and experience a decreasing pattern of job burnout. The current gender gap in job burnout may be explained by gender differences in socialization and roles in early career transitions.
Archaeology and Applied Anthropology as a Collaborative Approach to Decolonization
Authors: Woodard Buck
Published: July 2024

Mid-Atlantic Native archaeology has focused primarily on cultural horizons that predate the arrival of Europeans, culture contact phenomena, or the frontier dynamic of post-contact. In recent decades, the discipline has made important strides toward civic engagement with Native peoples. However, the focus on pre-contact/contact archaeology and settler history has inhibited the work of decolonization by unconsciously reaffirming colonialist narratives of Native disappearance. From the vantage of the public and present-day communities, several “middle centuries” of Indigenous experiences remain unexplained, and thus, an era of significant culture change is obscured. My call-to-action urges archaeologists to expand the lens of “deep history” across the prehistory/history divide into the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, using historical anthropology to engage an understudied period of Indigenous cultural adaptation and persistence. In this article, I overview four examples of recent applied anthropological research that address these silenced spaces and consider decolonizing practices that align with the needs of Native communities.
An interdisciplinary examination of a gunshot detection system: The public health context of a policing technology
Authors: MILBURN TRAVIS , SYED IFFATH UNISSA
Published: July 2024

Gun violence is a unique, preventable problem that contributes to a significant burden of healthcare and social costs, disability, and death in the United States. To address gun violence, several surveillance technologies have been implemented in municipalities across the US which are facilitating the collection of large amounts of data with the aim of reducing the occurrence of gun violence and responding to such incidences more quickly. One tool is ShotSpotter®, a popular acoustic gunshot detection system deployed by police departments. There are, however, research gaps about the concerns of using this technology and, to our knowledge, very little discussion about the implications and its effect on vulnerable groups exists. Accordingly, in this article, we argue against the use of technologies such as ShotSpotter as current data show inconsistent results in reducing violence. We also suggest the potential for harm from such surveillance technology should be cautiously weighed, as it could exceed the benefits of using such technology, thereby warranting further examination and research.
The use of artificial intelligence in university libraries in Türkiye: Practices, and perspectives of library directors
Authors: Çakmak Tolga , Eroğlu Şahika
Published: July 2024

Considering the fundamental role of libraries in social integration and information services, adapting service and business processes in parallel with technological advances is a crucial agenda. The impact and use of artificial intelligence technology in processes such as cataloging, content indexing, and responding to user requests have been extensively discussed in the information science literature in recent years. The purpose of this study is to investigate the practices and perspectives of library directors related to the use of artificial intelligence in the services and operations of university libraries in Türkiye. Evaluations related to the impact and use of artificial intelligence applications in the services and operations of university libraries were assessed based on the views of 43 university library directors in Türkiye. The perspectives of library directors reveal that improvements are needed in budget and technical infrastructure, human resources and training, data management, and ethical use to implement AI applications in university libraries in Türkiye.
Preparation of a fly ash-based porous geopolymer material for copper ion removal
Authors: Li Jianmin , Li Ye , Guo Liwen , Zhang Jiayong
Published: July 2024

The pursuit of novel and efficient adsorbents is vital in potentially toxic elements wastewater treatment. A block-like geopolymer, utilizing 92 wt.% of fly ash, was synthesized to serve as a cost-effective adsorbent for Cu(II). Fly ash-based porous geopolymer (FAPGM) with 80.11% of porosity, 38.080 m2 g−1 of specific surface area and 0.886 MPa of compression strength was obtained through process parameters optimization. FAPGM exhibited excellent adsorption performance, with a maximum capacity of 62.70 mg g−1 for Cu(II). The adsorption process can be described by Langmuir and quasi-second-order kinetic models. The mechanism of Cu(II) adsorption onto FAPGM involves chemisorption, electrostatic interactions, ion exchange chemical precipitation, spontaneous and endothermic. The research indicates blocky porous geopolymer can serve as a promising candidate material for treating copper-containing wastewater.