bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate change and Indigenous mental health in Australia: In the aftermath of the defeat of the Voice referendum
Authors: Shoib Sheikh , Das Soumitra , Zaidi Ilham , Chandradasa Miyuru
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

This manuscript delves into the intricate connection between climate change and Indigenous mental health in Australia, with a focus on the aftermath of the defeat of the ‘Voice’ referendum. Climate change, recognized for its broad impact on mental health determinants, poses heightened risks to vulnerable communities, including Indigenous populations. The defeat of ‘The Voice’ referendum adds complexity, highlighting concerns about the lack of meaningful rights for the First Peoples of Australia. The bushfires further underscore ecological consequences, affecting Indigenous ecosystems and intensifying existing environmental challenges. Climate change exacerbates existing health challenges for Indigenous peoples, introducing new issues like ecological sorrow and anxiety.

Methodology:

The manuscript advocates for prioritized research in Indigenous communities to explore the link between climate change and mental health. It emphasizes interdisciplinary and collaborative research, giving voice to those directly affected by climate change. The lack of trust between Indigenous populations and authorities, along with the implications on self-determination, is crucial research focus.

Results:

Renewable energy emerges as a potential solution deeply ingrained in Indigenous practices. The manuscript discusses challenges in achieving eco-friendly resettlement, emphasizing collaboration difficulties between the government and remote communities. The indigenous worldview, with its interconnectedness, is crucial for sustainable strategies.

Discussion and Future Directions:

Indigenous perspectives on planetary health are crucial, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge in shaping effective climate policies. The manuscript stresses dialogues between policymakers and Indigenous elders for formulating respectful land laws. It calls for global attention to the role of Indigenous peoples as biodiversity caretakers and urges recognition of their knowledge in climate change. Future directions include data collection for ecosystem protection, improving mental health outcomes post-climate events, and supporting impacted communities. Mental health care approaches in remote communities and practitioner training for climate-related issues are emphasized. The manuscript calls for increased funding for interdisciplinary research to understand the long-term impact of climate change on mental health, especially among vulnerable populations.
Self-Compassion, Anxiety and Depression Symptoms; the Mediation of Shame and Guilt
Authors: Etemadi Shamsababdi Paria , Dehshiri Gholam Reza
Published: January 2024

Self-compassion is related to psychological well-being and can improve mental health problems. The present study aimed to examine the relationship of self-compassion with anxiety and depression symptoms considering the mediating effects of shame and guilt. Two hundred forty-three participants in Iran completed the measures of Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS), self-compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF), and personal feelings questionnaire-2 (PFQ-2 Brief). The result showed that there was a significant negative correlation between self-compassion and shame, guilt, depression, and anxiety. The correlation between shame and guilt with depression and anxiety was also positive and significant. Mediation analysis was used to examine whether self-compassion predicted decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety through decreased shame and guilt. The results showed that self-compassion has a negative direct effect on depression symptoms. The direct effect of self-compassion on anxiety symptoms was not significant. Moreover, we found that shame and guilt mediate the relationship between self-compassion and depressive symptoms. However, the indirect effect of guilt on anxiety symptoms was not significant. The findings of the current study demonstrate that Self-compassion is linked to more psychological strengths and efficient emotional regulations, leading to less self-conscious emotions (shame and guilt) and decreased depression and anxiety symptoms.
Informality through the state: How overregulation and tolerance shape informal land development in metropolitan Brazil
Authors: Tonucci João
Published: January 2024

The relationship between the state and informal land development in Global South metropolises has yet not received much attention in urban studies. Concerning that knowledge gap, this paper investigates how the state regulates and inspects irregular and clandestine land subdivisions in the Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte (MRBH). A mixed-methods approach, focused on the inner workings of the land development control policy led by the MRBH Agency between 2009 and 2018, provides new evidence of the relationships between inspectors, developers, and prosecutors, among other actors. By delving deep into the intricate nexus between a changing regulatory landscape and the bureaucratic, street-level, and everyday enforcement practices by officials, the paper reveals how land development control, directly and indirectly, shapes informal land development in the MRBH. Particularly, it sheds light on how land development control unrolls through a contradictory combination of overregulation on one side and tolerance on the other. In light of this, I argue that, as land development control evolves without effectively tackling the land question and the structural drivers of informality, the state becomes paradoxically entangled in the production of the same forms of informality it is expected to curb. Therefore, land development control is better understood as a fragile and ambivalent state compromise between the need to regulate urban expansion and market-driven informal urbanisation. By creating opportunities for rent extraction and capital accumulation which are explored by informal land developers, the state has been crucial for property-led informal urbanisation in metropolitan Brazil.
Sanitation configurations in Lilongwe: Everyday experiences on and off the grid
Authors: Alda-Vidal Cecilia , Browne Alison L , Lawhon Mary , Iossifova Deljana
Published: January 2024

Scholars have called for increased attention to the practices through which residents of southern cities create and use infrastructure. The failures and disruptions of many particular artefacts have meant that people often develop multiple ways to access water, electricity, or transportation, even if all of them have limitations. For sanitation, thinking through heterogeneous infrastructure configurations can help us to see connections between toilets, and the reasons for maintaining access to different types of toilets, given their different risks and benefits. In this paper, we focus on plots in Lilongwe with both indoor flush-toilets and backyard latrines, and the lived experiences of people as they navigate choices about the use of these toilets. The presence of on and off-grid toilets is rooted in colonial urban form, yet is perpetuated – and proliferates in new places – as residents face a number of constraints, including most recently recurrent water shortages due to droughts. We consider both how this configuration challenges official imaginaries of urban sanitation, and how it helps residents to address different risks and sanitation needs. Drawing on the experience of Lilongwe, we reflect on what can be learnt from this heterogeneous infrastructural configuration in terms of planning for more resilient water and sanitation services in Global South cities and beyond.
Hookworm infestation as a rare cause of melaena in tropics: A case report
Authors: Pandit Narendra , Bhattarai Sameer , Nalbo Dinesh , Yadav Sanjay
Published: January 2024

Melaena due to hookworm infestation is a rare clinical presentation. It usually presents with symptoms of iron-deficiency anaemia owing to slow blood loss. Here we present a case of 45-year male who presented with a one-year history of intermittent melena requiring multiple blood transfusions. Preliminary endoscopies at different centres were normal. The presence of hookworm in the duodenum was only detected on repeat upper endoscopy as the cause of blood loss, and treatment with albendazole was successful in curing the patient.
Dynamic Urban Thresholds: Relationships between Form and Activities in Porta Ticinese, Milano
Authors: Clua Uceda Álvaro
Published: January 2024

The article approaches the dynamic condition of the urban form and activities of the so-called “urban thresholds,” spaces located in between different city fabrics. The study is based on a comparative analysis of seven maps representing key historical moments of Porta Ticinese’s area in Milano from 1807 to 2022, produced through geographical information system-based reconstruction techniques of original cartographies. The article discusses and provides graphic analysis of how time influences the spatial form of these spaces and the character of the activities, highlighting the strong correlation between them. The research explains how the geometry is in a constant process of consolidation, and how the activities, despite being different in each period, tend to share a similar character linked to formal or ephemeral transaction areas both at the metropolitan scale and local scale. The article concludes with a description of these spaces as eloquent examples of a unique “interstitial urbanity.”
Osseointegration and osteoimmunology in implantology: assessment of the immune sustainability of dental implants using advanced sonographic diagnostics: research and case reports
Authors: Lechner Johann , von Baehr Volker , Notter Florian , Schick Fabian
Published: January 2024

Objective

Bone marrow defects of the jaw (BMDJ) surrounding dental implants, in combination with impaired bone-to-implant contact (BIC), are difficult to detect in X-rays. This study evaluated BMDJ surrounding titanium (Ti-Impl) and ceramic (Cer-Impl) dental implants and incomplete BIC using a new trans-alveolar ultrasonography device (TAU) with numerical scaling for BIC.

Methods

The titanium stimulation test (Ti-Stim) was used to detect immune overactivation in response to titanium. Bone density surrounding implants was measured using TAU. We also validated osteoimmune dysregulation.

Results

TAU values showed reduced BIC and decreased osseointegration for Ti-Impl. Moreover, TAU values in the Cer-Impl group were more than twice those in the Ti-Impl cohort. The multiplex analysis of C-C motif chemokine 5 (CCL5, also known as RANTES) expression revealed a 20-fold increase in BMDJ surrounding Ti-Impl. Higher levels of CCL5 inflammation were present in the positive Ti-Stim group.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that Cer-Impl have an osteoimmune advantage over Ti-Impl. The key determinant for osteoimmune sustainability appears to be the absence of inflammation at the implant site. We therefore recommend the use of TAU to assess the implant site prior to implantation.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair With Suture Tape Augmentation: Can You Overtighten?
Authors: Shahien Amir A. , Beason David P. , Slowik Jonathan S. , Fleisig Glenn S. , Dugas Jeffrey R. , Cain E. Lyle
Published: January 2024

Background:

There has been a renewed interest and, recently, wider implementation of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) repair in throwing athletes because of improvement in ligament repair technology and corresponding outcome data.

Purpose:

To compare the biomechanical parameters and failure mode between 2 brace-tightening techniques for UCL repair.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Eleven matched pairs of cadaveric arms were procured. One limb from each pair underwent UCL repair with suture tape augmentation with either (1) attempted restoration of physiologic ligament tension or (2) maximal tension. Each specimen was subjected to 10 cycles of subfailure valgus torque at 90º of flexion in the intact state after UCL avulsion and then after UCL repair. Specimens were then torqued to failure. Articular contact mechanics, linear gap distance, angular displacement, failure torque, failure stiffness, and suture tape pull-through length were recorded. Two-way analysis of variance and paired t tests were used to test for statistical differences.

Results:

There was a significant effect ( P = .01) of tightening on joint contact area. There was a significant decrease in gap distance ( P = .03) and angular displacement ( P = .004) from the torn condition to the repaired condition for the maximum tension group, without a significant difference in gap distance from the intact condition. Failure torque and stiffness were not significantly different between groups, although there was a significant difference ( P = .001) in the overall suture tape pull-through length.

Conclusion:

Although there are potential physiologic changes at time zero—including significant decreases in contact area, normalized gap distance, and normalized angular displacement with maximal tension repair—examination of failure biomechanics suggests that these effects may be mitigated over time within the construct by suture tape pull-through at the tape-anchor interface. Neither method of UCL repair with suture tape augmentation resulted in overconstraint of the elbow joint compared with the native ligament biomechanics.

Clinical Relevance:

As more long-term outcome data from UCL repair with suture tape augmentation emerge, there will be wider implementation with various techniques to tension the suture tape. Examining the potential biomechanical sequelae of the UCL repair construct applied under maximal tension will help further refine recommendations for surgeons who utilize this technique for UCL repair.
Prejudice in children and extremism in adults: Intriguing mindset convergences
Authors: Merhej Rita
Published: January 2024

In the literature on children’s interpersonal and intergroup relations, it is inappropriate to say a child is ‘racist’ even in the evidence of the White child refusing to sit near a Black peer in class, or vice versa, or allying with friends to bully that same peer at school. In such cases, this child’s behavior has been referred to as out-group prejudice. Racial prejudice is bound to develop into any of the multiple types of extremism. This article explores the similarities between the adult extremist mindset and children’s prejudice. We present the conceptual constituents of both the extremist mindset and prejudice, and then discuss the convergences between the two; we later present the convergences in the determinants of both extremism and prejudice. The exploration of such convergences allows us to posit that prejudice in childhood may be a marker for extremism in adulthood. The recommendation is therefore to incite researchers to look more into the prejudiced mindset in childhood as a potential marker of the adult extremist mindset, and intervention policy makers to look into factors that buffer the further development of children’s prejudiced mindset into extremist polarized views about the world.
Influence of Age and Message Frame on COVID-19 Vaccination Willingness Early in the Pandemic
Authors: Spalvins Nikita C. , Leon Tarren , Bailey Phoebe E.
Published: January 2024

Objective: This study examined whether age would moderate the association between a brief message frame intervention and COVID-19 vaccine willingness. Methods: Data were collected in Australia between 25 June and 5 July 2021. Participants ( N = 187) aged 18–85 years had not yet received a dose of COVID-19 vaccine. After random assignment to a gain- or loss-framed message, participants reported COVID-19 vaccine willingness, general anti-vaccine attitudes, approach and avoidance motivation, and COVID-19 illness risk perception. Results: Message frame did not influence COVID-19 vaccine willingness. However, greater COVID-19 illness risk perception and older age increased the odds of Pfizer vaccine willingness, while lower avoidance motivation increased the odds of AstraZeneca vaccine willingness. Greater anti-vaccine ideology decreased the odds of willingness to receive either of the COVID-19 vaccines. Conclusions: A brief message frame intervention did not influence COVID-19 vaccine willingness across the adult lifespan.
Morality, Affect, and Reputation in the Making of a Motivated Social Self
Authors: Abrutyn Seth , Zhang Jienian
Published: January 2024

Despite the prevalence of symbolic interaction’s theory of the self, alongside alternative implicit models in dual-process and practice theory, sociology continues to struggle with incorporating affect into models of the self. To address this gap, we distinguish between the conventional sociological understanding of Goffman’s self as cynical and masked and an alternative construct we excavate by paying close attention to negative cases like Goffman’s Asylums and Stigma. This alternative theory of self treats self and situation not as one-sided but as mutually constitutive. Unlike most models of self, our alternative is continuously motivated by humans’ desire to maintain reputation within a given situation; reputation making is dependent on the situation, and its ceremonial rules provide the context for the self’s realization of affective rewards. After considering how reputational claims around ceremonial rules reveal an affectively driven, moral self, we consider the theoretical and methodological implications of the theory for major strands within symbolic interactionism.
Developing, Purchasing, Implementing and Monitoring AI Tools in Radiology: Practical Considerations. A Multi-Society Statement From the ACR, CAR, ESR, RANZCR & RSNA
Authors: Brady Adrian P. , Allen Bibb , Chong Jaron , Kotter Elmar , Kottler Nina , Mongan John , Oakden-Rayner Lauren , dos Santos Daniel Pinto , Tang An , Wald Christoph , Slavotinek John
Published: January 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) carries the potential for unprecedented disruption in radiology, with possible positive and negative consequences. The integration of AI in radiology holds the potential to revolutionize healthcare practices by advancing diagnosis, quantification, and management of multiple medical conditions. Nevertheless, the ever‑growing availability of AI tools in radiology highlights an increasing need to critically evaluate claims for its utility and to differentiate safe product offerings from potentially harmful, or fundamentally unhelpful ones. This multi‑society paper, presenting the views of Radiology Societies in the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, defines the potential practical problems and ethical issues surrounding the incorporation of AI into radiological practice. In addition to delineating the main points of concern that developers, regulators, and purchasers of AI tools should consider prior to their introduction into clinical practice, this statement also suggests methods to monitor their stability and safety in clinical use, and their suitability for possible autonomous function. This statement is intended to serve as a useful summary of the practical issues which should be considered by all parties involved in the development of radiology AI resources, and their implementation as clinical tools.
Real-time application of a dynamic disturbance suppression control approach for an axial active magnetic bearing system
Authors: Chiu Hsin-Lin
Published: January 2024

Active Magnetic Bearings (AMBs) use magnetic forces to suspend the rotor, allowing contactless operation and the ability to adjust stiffness and damping. However, compared to mechanical bearings, magnetic bearings are much weaker in terms of rigidity. A large external force can lead to rotor/stator collision. This study proposes a Dynamic Stiffness Controller (DSC) for AMBs. The DSC dynamically adjusts the AMB stiffness to counter external disturbance forces in real-time. Experimental results show the effective change of AMB stiffness by DSC based on the magnitude of the external load. Furthermore, not only the AMB stiffness can be real-time adjusted to counterbalance disturbances but the steady-state energy consumption is improved as there is little disturbances applied to the system. The AMB-DSC system exhibiting only 33% energy consumption compared to AMBs with constant stiffness. DSC for AMB systems offers benefits like lower risk of rotor-stator collisions, preventing coil burnouts, and improved energy efficiency.
Numerical investigation on the rotordynamics of a high-speed air compressor supported by gas foil bearings
Authors: Xu Haojie , Shao Congpeng , Yang Boxin , An Qi
Published: January 2024

Gas foil bearings are particularly suitable for supporting rotors of hydrogen fuel cell air compressors. Based on Reynolds equation and elastic mechanics theory, a fluid-structure interaction model of gas foil bearings is introduced. A series of perturbation equations are developed and solved to obtain stiffness and damping coefficients of the foil bearings at different rotational speeds. A lumped model of the bearing-rotor system is developed and the rotor stability is analysed by innovatively applying Riccati transfer matrix method. The natural frequencies of the rotor are calculated and then the Campbell diagram is plotted. Subsequently, the critical speeds and the corresponding vibration modes are obtained. The predicted values of the proposed model are highly consistent with the reported experimental results and finite element results, indicating the accuracy of the model. Based on the calculation of rotor unbalance response, further investigation on the effects of unbalance parameters on unbalance response is conducted. The results obtained in this paper could provide theoretical reference for the design of foil bearing supported rotors.
Collaborative optimization on cooling channel flow resistance and winding temperature for integrated cooling of motor and controller
Authors: Tan Libin , Yuan Yuejin , Tang Lin
Published: January 2024

The efficiency and working performance of the motor and controller system in micro-electric vehicles depends mainly on its thermal performance, which is contingent upon effective and active cooling. The working temperature of the motor and controller may be too high during operation, which properly causes motor power reduction or motor breakdowns. Therefore, it is crucial to design a good cooling channel for better cooling the integrated motor and controller system. This work proposes an integrated cooling channel of motor and controller, and the fluid-solid coupling analysis is applied for analyzing the velocity, pressure distributions of the cooling channel, and temperature distributions of motor solid components. Meanwhile, the collaborative optimization method based on the multi-island genetic algorithm (MIGA) is used to attain optimal design parameters of the integrated cooling channel of the motor and controller for obtaining a better cooling channel design with lower flow resistance and lower winding temperatures. Results show that the original cooling channel’s flow resistance and maximum winding temperature are 31.87 kPa and 120.04°C, respectively. The flow resistance and winding temperature are pretty significant. After optimization, the local vortex flow and zero velocity area in optimal cooling channel design are improved, the coolant flow velocity becomes more uniform, and the flow resistance is significantly reduced. The flow resistance and maximum winding temperature of the optimal cooling channel design are 12.5 kPa and 116.76°C, respectively, which are decreased compared with the original cooling channel structure, with a decrease of 39.4% and 2.7%, respectively. The research findings in this work can provide theoretical reference for solid components temperature evaluation of motor and give valuable data to cooling performance evaluation and optimization of integrated cooling channel for motor and controller system.
A multi-objective optimization strategy based on combined meta-models: Application to a wind turbine
Authors: Boutemedjet Abdelwahid , Khalfallah Smail , Cerdoun Mahfoudh , Benaouali Abdelkader
Published: January 2024

Many types of optimization problems involving expensive functions have been handled successfully by meta-model-based optimization (MBO) methods. However, some particular difficult problems, such as multimodal functions, which require an accurate approximation even around local optima, still prove challenging for MBO. Generally, this type of problems is solved by combining or assembling meta-models. This paper proposes a new strategy of combining a global meta-model with many mid-range ones. The latter are constructed on sub-regions where the global meta-model is inaccurate. These mid-range meta-models are constructed in two phases. The first phase aims to explore accurately all the design space; whereas the second phase aims to provide more accurate solutions than those of the global meta-model on regions of interest (exploitation). The set of sub-regions can be updated adaptively until reaching the meta-model target accuracy. This two phases’ adaptive process prevents the over sampling of non-interesting regions, which allows gaining significantly in the cost. The proposed strategy is tested using the following techniques: Radial basis function (RBF) and Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II). This strategy is tested both on difficult mathematical benchmarks and on an engineering application giving satisfactory results. The considered engineering application aims to optimize the operation of a vertical axe wind turbine.
A Pianist’s Technique Rehabilitation After Post-Traumatic Stress: An Autoethnographic Study
Authors: Lewis Carla , van der Merwe Liesl
Published: January 2024

Individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have access to a number of sources detailing the neuropsychological effects and influence of PTSD on their day-to-day lives. While the information on the effects and influence of PTSD may be helpful in understanding the scope of the disorder, there is a lack of knowledge on how to rehabilitate musicians, specifically pianists, who experience these effects. PTSD is especially detrimental to a pianist’s abilities, and consequently, without concentrated rehabilitation strategies designed to combat the effects of PTSD, pianists suffering from PTSD may forfeit professional opportunities resulting in loss of livelihood and income. After the first author’s experience with PTSD, she suffered from the same effects frequently described in the literature. Through personal journalling, informed music teaching, and self-reflection, she aimed to discover whether musical rehabilitation was possible.
Phenobarbital Versus Benzodiazepines for the Treatment of Severe Alcohol Withdrawal
Authors: Kessel Katherine M. , Olson Logan M. , Kruse Derek A. , Lyden Elizabeth R. , Whiston Kelsey E. , Blodgett Mindy M. , Balasanova Alena A.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Phenobarbital may offer advantages over benzodiazepines for severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome (SAWS), but its impact on clinical outcomes has not been fully elucidated.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical impact of phenobarbital versus benzodiazepines for SAWS.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study compared phenobarbital to benzodiazepines for the management of SAWS for patients admitted to progressive or intensive care units (ICUs) between July 2018 and July 2022. Patients included had a history of delirium tremens (DT) or seizures, Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment of Alcohol-Revised (CIWA-Ar) >15, or Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale (PAWSS) score ≥4. The primary outcome was hospital length of stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes included progressive or ICU LOS, incidence of adjunctive pharmacotherapy, and incidence/duration of mechanical ventilation.

Results:

The final analysis included 126 phenobarbital and 98 benzodiazepine encounters. Patients treated with phenobarbital had shorter median hospital LOS versus those treated with benzodiazepines (2.8 vs 4.7 days; P < 0.0001); a finding corroborated by multivariable analysis. The phenobarbital group also had shorter median progressive/ICU LOS (0.7 vs 1.3 days; P < 0.0001), and lower incidence of dexmedetomidine ( P < 0.0001) and antipsychotic initiation ( P < 0.0001). Fewer patients in the phenobarbital group compared to the benzodiazepine group received new mechanical ventilation ( P = 0.045), but median duration was similar (1.2 vs 1.6 days; P = 1.00).

Conclusion and relevance:

Scheduled phenobarbital was associated with decreased hospital LOS compared to benzodiazepines for SAWS. This was the first study to compare outcomes of fixed-dose, nonoverlapping phenobarbital to benzodiazepines in patients with clearly defined SAWS and details a readily implementable protocol.
Norman
Authors: Lewis Patrick
Published: January 2024

A contemplation on the passing of Norman Denzin.
Embodied Reflexivity Through the Arts: An Introduction
Authors: Lyle Ellyn , Ryu Jee Yeon , Snowber Celeste Nazeli
Published: January 2024

Emerging from a global health crisis that shone the light on the effects of alienation, isolation, and physical and spiritual vulnerability, we wondered what we might offer to re/center humanness and remind us of individual and collective possibilities to create positive change. With this call in our hearts and bodies, our special issue began to take shape. We are three scholars at different stages of our careers and with intersecting areas of expertise, but who are all grounded in reflexive ways of being, embodied ways of knowing, and artful ways of engaging. We acknowledge the scholars(hip) in each of these distinct areas and are grateful for the foundation on which we build. Thus, with our collective yearnings to centre an integrated way of at/tending to an emergent process of re/making and re/imagining knowledge, we offer this special issue with three intentions: to advance arts-based educational research in developing critical, social, and relational consciousness; to evoke/provoke embodied pedagogical practices that transform teaching/learning; and to contribute to re/humanizing education (Lyle, 2022) and social justice reform.
Impact of Topical Capsaicin Cream on Thermoregulation and Perception While Walking in the Cold
Authors: Rosales Alejandro M. , Moler Jessica L. , Engellant Andrew C. , Held Alice L. , Slivka Dustin R.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Capsaicin, a chili pepper extract, can stimulate increased skin blood flow (SkBF) with a perceived warming sensation on application areas. Larger surface area application may exert a more systemic thermoregulatory response. Capsaicin could assist with maintaining heat transport to the distal extremities, minimizing cold weather injury risk. However, the thermoregulatory and perceptual impact of topical capsaicin cream application prior to exercise in the cold is unknown.

Methods

Following application of either a 0.1% capsaicin or control cream to the upper and lower extremities (10 g total, ∼40–50% body surface area), 11 participants in shorts and a t-shirt were exposed to 30 min of cold (0 °C, 40% relative humidity). Exposures comprised of 5 min seated rest, 20 min walking (1.6 m·s−1, 5% grade), and 5 min seated rest. Temperature (skin, core), SkBF, skin conductivity, heart rate, thermal sensation, and thermal comfort were measured throughout.

Results

The capsaicin treatment did not differ from the control treatment in skin temperature (treatment mean: 30.0 ± 2.5, 30.1 ± 2.4 °C, respectively, p = 0.655), core temperature (treatment mean: 37.3 ± 0.5, 37.4 ± 0.4 °C, respectively, p = 0.113), SkBF (treatment mean: −8.4 ± 10.0, −11.1 ± 10.7 A.U., respectively, p = 0.492), skin conductivity (treatment mean: −0.7 ± 5.1, 0.4 ± 6.4 µS, respectively, p = 0.651), or heart rate (treatment mean: 83 ± 29, 85 ± 28 beats·minute−1, respectively, p = 0.234). The capsaicin and control treatments also did not differ in thermal sensation ( p = 0.521) and thermal comfort ( p = 0.982), with perceptual outcomes corresponding with feeling “cool” and “just uncomfortable,” respectively.

Conclusions

0.1% topical capsaicin application to exposed limbs prior to walking in a cold environment does not alter whole-body thermoregulation or thermal perception.
Determinants of Open Defecation Among Rural Women in Ghana: Analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys
Authors: Appiah-Effah Eugene , Boakye Kingsley , Salihu Tarif , Duku Godwin Armstrong , Fenteng Justice Ofosu-Darko , Boateng George , Appiah Francis , Nyarko Kwabena Biritwum
Published: January 2024

Open defecation continuously remains a major global sanitation challenge, contributing to an estimated 1.6 million deaths per year. Ghana ranks second in Africa for open defecation and had the fourth-lowest sanitation coverage in 2010. Evidence indicates that about 32% of the rural Ghanaian population still practice open defecation due to lack of access to basic sanitation facilities, drifting the country from achieving universal access to sanitation by 2030. Women, particularly those in rural areas, are disproportionately affected by open defecation, facing heightened health risks, harassment, and a loss of dignity. Even though previous studies on open defecation in Ghana exist, they lack national representation and neglect women in rural residents who are disproportionally affected by the repercussions of open defecation. Examining that rural women will contribute to heightening their own vulnerability to health risks by practising open defecation is essential to bridging the literature gap on open defecation practices among rural women. The study investigated determinants of open defecation among rural women in Ghana using data from the female files of the 2003, 2008 and 2014 Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). A total of 4,284 rural women with complete information on variables of interest were included in the study. The outcome variable was ‘open defecation’, whilst 14 key explanatory variables (e.g., age, education, wealth status, among others) were used. Two logistic regression models were built, and the outputs were reported in odds ratio. Descriptively, 42 in every 100 women aged 15 to 49 practiced open defecation (n = 1811, 95% CI = 49-52). Open defecation (OD) significantly correlated with educational attainment, wealth status, religion, access to mass media, partner’s education, and zone of residence. The likelihood of practicing open defecation reduced among those with formal education [aOR = 0.69, CI = 0.56-0.85], those whose partners had formal education [aOR = 0.64, CI = 0.52-0.80], women in the rich wealth quintile [aOR = 0.12, CI = 0.07-0.20], the traditionalist [aOR = 0.33, CI = 0.19-0.57], and those who had access to mass media [aOR = 0.70, CI = 0.57-0.85]. Residents in the Savannah zone had higher odds of openly defecating [aOR = 21.06, CI = 15.97-27.77]. The prevalence of open defecation is disproportionately pro-poor, which indicates that impoverished rural women are more likely to perform it. Public health initiatives should aim to close the rich-poor divide in OD practice among rural women.
Urethral Recurrence After Cystectomy and Orthotopic Bladder Reconstruction: A Rare Case of Recurrent Bladder Cancer After 12 Years and Review of the Literature
Authors: Truong Trong-Tan Ho , Nguyen Dang-Khoa Huynh , Dinh Ky Nam , Thai Minh Sam
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Radical cystectomy combined with orthotopic urinary diversion is a chosen approach for treating invasive bladder cancer. However, urothelial cell carcinoma is characterized by its potential for recurrence and the development of multiple tumors in the urinary tracts. In the natural progression of transitional cell carcinoma, the remaining ureteral stump is considered a predicted site for possible recurrence after radical cystectomy. Currently, there is no specific recommendation for the diagnosis and management of this condition.

Objective:

We report a rare case in a 74-year-old male patient who was diagnosed with anterior urethral carcinoma following a history of radical cystectomy and Hautmann ileal neobladder reconstruction. Additionally, we summarize some novel findings regarding risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in patients with recurrent bladder cancer in the urethra after radical cystectomy.

Methods:

A case report and mini review.

Results:

The patient was diagnosed with recurrent bladder cancer in the urethral after radical cystectomy using magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis, cystoscopy, and biopsy. Complete urethrectomy and creation of a permanent percutaneous urinary diversion were performed. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were recorded. The patient was discharged 3 days after the surgery.

Conclusion:

Urethral cancer following radical cystectomy for bladder cancer treatment is a rare condition. Risk factors for this occurrence include male gender, non-use of orthotopic neobladder reconstruction technique, invasive tumors in the prostatic urethra, and multifocal tumors. The treatment of these tumors can be determined based on the extent of invasion and histological characteristics, leading to the choice between radical urethrectomy or alternative conservative treatments.
Clinical impact of gender and age at onset on disease trajectory in primary progressive multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Camerlingo Sebastian , Rubinstein Fernando , Celia Ysrraelit Maria , Correale Jorge , Carnero Contentti Edgar , Rojas Juan I , Patrucco Liliana , Leguizamon Felisa del Valle , Tkachuk Veronica , Fernandez Liguori Nora , Cristiano Edgardo , Mainella Carolina , Zanga Gisela , Carra Adriana , Marrodan Mariano , Martinez Alejandra Diana , Silva Berenice Anabel , Alonso Ricardo
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives:

Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) is characterized by gradual neurological deterioration without relapses. This study aimed to investigate the clinical impact of gender and age at disease onset on disease progression and disability accumulation in patients with this disease phenotype.

Methods:

Secondary data from the RelevarEM registry, a longitudinal database in Argentina, were analyzed. The cohort comprised patients with PPMS who met inclusion criteria. Statistical analysis with multilevel Bayesian robust regression modeling was conducted to assess the associations between gender, age at onset, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score trajectories.

Results:

We identified 125 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of PPMS encompassing a total of 464 observations. We found no significant differences in EDSS scores after 10 years of disease progression between genders (−0.08; credible interval (CI): −0.60, 0.42). A 20-year difference in age at onset did not show significant differences in EDSS score after 10 years of disease progression (0.281; CI: −0.251, 0.814). Finally, we also did not find any clinically relevant difference between gender EDSS score with a difference of 20 years in age at onset (−0.021; CI: −0.371, 0.319).

Conclusion:

Biological plausibility of gender and age effects does not correlate with clinical impact measured by EDSS score.
Uncertainty in times of ecological crisis: a Knightian tale of how to face future states of the world
Authors: Maechler Sylvain , Graz Jean-Christophe
Published: January 2024

How do we face uncertainty in times of crisis? Debates in International Relations often struggle to disentangle the processes involved in turning the uncertainty of a crisis into decisions and actions. Drawing on the analysis of Frank H. Knight, we argue that decisions and actions taken by international actors in times of crisis are underpinned by the way that information is accessed, interpreted, and evaluated in order to claim reliable knowledge for shaping future states of the world. We illustrate our argument with the global politics of the ecological crisis and three contrasting methods used by international actors to convert the time of the crisis into decisions and actions: United Nations agencies, financial accounting standard-setters and central banks.
Engineering the Skin: Embodied Experiences of Healing from Acne Among YouTube Vloggers
Authors: Dotson Miranda P. , Lafrance Marc
Published: January 2024

We examine how 24 adult YouTube vloggers tell their ‘acne stories’ by means of videos posted on YouTube between 2015 and 2020. In doing so, we study the relationship between embodied experiences of acne and health-seeking practices, particularly as they pertain to managing the everyday life of the body, abandoning medical expertise and embracing lay knowledge, living with disability, and engineering an improved self. Overall, we suggest that the vloggers share a general scepticism about the clinical management of their condition, often eschewing medical treatments while advocating for the modification of lifestyle practices. Ultimately, our study shows that vloggers understand healing from acne as both a personal journey that requires individual initiative and a shared pursuit best supported not by doctors and prescription medication but by an online environment that encourages self-engineering through free-market health care options and neoliberal values of working on the body.
Writing and publishing for inclusive practitioner research: Local practices and wider issues
Authors: Barfield Andrew , Ashwell Tim , Stewart Alison
Published: January 2024

We are three members of a Special Interest Group (SIG) of teachers in Japan that has long been committed to writing and publishing for inclusive practitioner research about learner development. In the last several years, we have worked together with others on initiating, promoting, and sustaining the Learner Development Journal (LDJ), a new journal of practitioner research (PR) that explores different issues and themes to do with learner development. In this article, we initially consider the relationships between PR, writing, and publishing. Because PR differs fundamentally from academic research, writing about PR entails not only a rejection of traditional forms of academic writing, but also a quest for different forms of writing that prioritize the practitioner’s voice and experience, and include the voices and experiences of learners. We then re-examine the evolving practices and processes of the LDJ and reflect on how PR writing has developed in our local context so that practitioner-researchers can write about their practices and inquiries in alternative, practitioner-friendly ways. We conclude with a proposal for the importance of personalized, reflective writing for PR before raising some of the broader, unresolved questions we continue to face in writing about and publishing inclusive practitioner research.
A rare case of delayed CSF leakage from the sphenoid sinus due to a stabbing
Authors: Tabibkhooei Alireza , Javadnia Parisa , Fattahi Arash
Published: January 2024

A patient with a non-missile penetrating brain injury might present fully conscious without any neurological deficit with a small linear laceration on skull as the only sign of injury. We present a 27-year-old man who was referred to us with new onset CSF leakage as rhinorrhea and history of penetrating stab wound injury to his right temporal region, 3 months ago. The imaging showed the tract of removed sharp object which was piercing the calvaria and the temporal lobe from the right temporal bone, entering the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus, adjacent to the siphon of the carotid artery till the lateral wall of the right sphenoid sinus, ultimately its distal tip entered the sphenoid sinus. The patient was treated through an endoscopic endonasal approach to repair the defect of his skull base. As a result, we should be cautious in facing these patients even if they are asymptomatic. Also doing complementary imaging modalities and other evaluations are crucial to not ignore any possible complications based on their history and examinations.
Learning from feminist participatory action research: A framework for responsive and generative research practices with young people
Authors: Goessling Kristen P.
Published: January 2024

Feminist participatory action researchers (FPAR) recognize transformative praxis as a political, relational, deeply felt and embodied experience that centers issues of power, participation, and relationality. This paper offers an in-depth exploration of FPAR praxis from a study conducted with young people who were learning to be activists in a youth-led organization in British Columbia. This work highlights the generative potential of creativity and art for embodied, affective, intellectual research practices. Specifically, I describe and analyze three research practices designed to generate meaning making: 1) critical reflexivity and interviewing as relational practice, 2) a loving creative embodied analytical practice, and 3) reflective and dialogical analytical practice. Findings provide insights for designing transformative research praxis that can catalyze a greater sense of personal and collective power. Implications of creative participatory methods for documenting and deepening the diverse meanings of experiences of activism, resistance, and community are addressed. I argue for demonstrate the value of FPAR praxis for sustaining social justice work through practices designed to generate spaces for people who are becoming activists to share about their experiences, grow their relationships, and make meaning together.
Competing visions of artificial intelligence in education—A heuristic analysis on sociotechnical imaginaries and problematizations in policy guidelines
Authors: Linderoth Cornelia , Hultén Magnus , Stenliden Linnéa
Published: January 2024

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in education necessitates a shared understanding of its intended purpose and societal implications. This paper underscores the significance of societal perspectives in AI and education, often overshadowed by technological aspects. At the same time, policy guidelines for the integration of AI technology within educational systems are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of education. What we as society imagine AI and education to be, will in some shape or form lead the development of suggested fixes. The aim is to aid the understanding of why and how visions of learning and education are framed in relation to developments in Educational Technology (EdTech) and their introduction in education. It thereby contributes to the ongoing discussion on the integration of AI in education and its potential societal impacts.
A Mixed-Methods Examination of Lost Occupational Choice in Retirement
Authors: Voss Maren Wright , Richards Lorie Gage , Price Pollie , Terrill Alexandra , Wadsworth Lori , Hung Man
Published: January 2024

Lost work opportunity and forced retirement demonstrate negative health impacts related to occupational deprivation. Measuring occupational loss during the retirement transition can be problematic. The objective of the study is to clarify measurement of involuntary retirement in its relationship to occupational loss and deprivation. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, survey data on unemployment, forced retirement, and earlier-than-planned retirement from 195 screened retirees yielded 102 reporting at least one lost work opportunity event, with 18 interviewed about occupational loss within the analytic timeframe. Planned retirement age was similar for full-employment and lost work opportunity groups. Actual retirement age was earlier in the lost work opportunity sample (age 57.5 compared with 61.2). Interviews identified a 22% discrepancy between forced retirement reported in survey versus interview data. Themes emerging from the interviews indicated financial and identity challenges from lost work opportunity, a dialectical trade-off between lost opportunity and daily freedom, and overall resilience.