bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compliance of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Companies to Good Manufacturing Practices in Heating, Ventilation, and Air‐Conditioning Systems: The Case of Local Ethiopian Firms
Authors: Tune Tibesso Desta , Gabriel Tesfaye , Balcha Balla Tamrat , Belete Anteneh
Published: December 2024

Background: Good manufacturing practice (GMP) is a part of quality management that maintains product quality and manages it according to the criteria of fitness for use. The heating, ventilation, and air‐conditioning (HVAC) system comprises the equipment, technology, and procedure that ensure product quality through maintaining heat, ventilation, and coolness of pharmaceutical manufacturing firms. The aim of the study was to evaluate the GMP compliance of HVAC systems and assess the opportunities and challenges of improving these systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Ethiopia.

Methods: The study was conducted in eight local pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Ethiopia from April 20 to August 30, 2021, by using a concurrent mixed‐method approach to evaluate the implementation of GMP in HVAC systems. The pharmaceutical firms were directly observed by using a structured and standard observational checklist that was adopted from the WHO minimum GMP requirements. In order to understand the challenges and opportunities, face‐to‐face interviews with key informants using a purposive sampling technique were conducted.

Results: The study findings revealed that the local pharmaceutical companies applied for 67.1% of the GMP requirements of the HVAC systems. The GMP implementation status in the basic quality features of HVAC systems of local pharmaceutical companies was 75% on premises, 70.67% in HVAC system design and maintenance practices, 56.25% in product protection, 61.25% in environmental protection, and 75% in cross‐contamination prevention. The primary obstacles to implementing GMP in the HVAC systems were a shortage of skilled professionals, HVAC system spare parts, and foreign currency besides poor practice of HVAC system calibration.

Conclusion: The study revealed that the local pharmaceutical manufacturing companies did not adhere to GMP standards in HVAC systems.
High Prescribing: A Case Study of High‐Potency Medicinal Cannabis Inducing Psychosis
Authors: Bradlow Richard C. J. , Wright Sophie , Szrajbman Vaz Da Silva Anamaria , Armstrong Ferghal
Published: December 2024

Introduction: There has been a recent significant increase in medical cannabis prescribing in Australia despite weak evidence for its effectiveness in treating the most common indications. Concern has been raised about the potential harms of inappropriate prescription of cannabis; however, there have been no prior published cases of psychosis secondary to medicinal cannabis in Australia.

Case Presentation: We present a case of a 21‐year‐old Indigenous male with psychosis following switching from illicitly obtained cannabis to prescription cannabis, which resulted in Othello delusions towards his partner, violence towards her and ultimately an attempt to end his life.

Discussion: Cannabis use is linked to the development of a psychotic illness whether it is prescribed or obtained illicitly. People who are prescribed cannabis are also at an elevated risk of developing cannabis use disorder (CUD). Cannabis prescribers need to screen for risk factors of drug‐induced psychosis such as a family member with a psychotic illness, review patients regularly and provide harm minimisation advice to prevent damage from their prescription.

Conclusion: There are clear dangers to overprescribing medicinal cannabis and the care that needs to be taken by prescribers to avoid them. There is a need for a change in the regulation of cannabis prescribing in Australia. Further research is warranted on the effects of the increase in prevalence of cannabis prescribing.
Identity Cannibalism in Narcissistic Persons: Lessons from Anthropology
Authors: Mancini Milena , Urso Valentina , Stanghellini Giovanni
Published: December 2024

Background: Cannibalism is a practice based on the assimilation of the enemy, characterized by different ritual phases. The cultural anthropologist Francesco Remotti provides insight into this practice, stating that the Tupinamba tribes – an ethnic group living along the Eastern Atlantic coast of Brazil – use it to demonstrate their superiority over the defeated group. After capturing a prisoner, the assimilation process begins, which prepares the prisoner for the cannibalistic act through a specific sequence of steps. Summary: Remotti’s research on cannibalism is applicable to the world of narcissism. The way a narcissistic individual relates to others is a paradigmatic example of cannibalistic rituals. This study aimed to catch the structural components of the narcissistic relationship, rooted in Remotti’s anthropological perspective, and to explore the associated phenomenological and psychopathological characteristics. Key Message: We present a new perspective for understanding the interpersonal relationship characteristic of a narcissistic person, which we have termed “identity cannibalism.”
Splenic Irradiation Preceding Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation as a Possible Risk Factor of Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Shirane Shuichi , Yasuda Hajime , Uchimura Ayana , Mori Yosuke , Inano Tadaaki , Tsutsui Miyuki , Hamano Yasuharu , Ando Miki
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Splenomegaly is frequently encountered in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms. Splenomegaly is associated with an increased incidence of engraftment failure during allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), and some centers perform prior low-dose splenic irradiation (LDSI) which has been reported to be both safe and effective. However, we report conflicting results by presenting three allo-HSCT patients undergoing LDSI that subsequently developed sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS). Case Presentation: The underlying diseases of the presented cases were atypical chronic myeloid leukemia, secondary myelofibrosis following essential thrombocythemia, and acute myeloid leukemia transforming from myeloproliferative neoplasm, unclassifiable. Endothelial Activation and Stress Index (EASIX) scores of the 3 patients were 0.40, 3.82, and 4.40, respectively. Conclusion: SOS is a potentially fatal complication of allo-HSCT, and the mortality rates of severe cases are reported to be above 80%. LDSI has not been recognized as a risk factor of SOS to date. Alternative management methods of splenomegaly during allo-HSCT such as ruxolitinib administration may be safer compared to LDSI.
Characteristics of HCC patients with portal vein thrombosis: albumin and survival
Authors: Carr Brian , Donghia Rossella , Yilmaz Sezai
Published: December 2024

Introduction. Presence of macroscopic portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been found to be a major poor prognosis characteristic.
Aims. To examine patients with PVT for their clinical characteristics and factors related to both PVT and to survival.
Methods. A large HCC database containing 1094 patients with PVT and 2513 patients without PVT was examined. Patients had routine baseline serum liver parameters and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels measured; radiological assessment of maximum tumor diameter (MTD), tumor number, presence of macroscopic portal vein thrombosis, plus survival.
Results. The percent of patients with PVT increased with increase in both MTD and serum AFP levels and liver parameter levels were worse in patients with PVT than without it. A logistic regression model showed that the combination of MTD>5cm plus AFP >100 IU/mL plus albumin <3.5 g/dL had an odds ratio of 10.988 for the presence of PVT. Normal serum albumin levels significantly reduced the hazard ratio for death in a Cox proportional hazard model and were associated with decreased liver failure.
Conclusion. Logistic regression showed the significance of MTD, AFP and albumin on presence of PVT and the Cox model highlighted the importance of albumin levels in decreasing death.
Patients’ Perceptions of Cannabis Contamination in Florida's Medical Program
Authors: Spandau Gabriel , Loizzo Jamie , Jury Hannah , Bunch James C. , Stedman Nicole , Pearson Brian , Goodin Amie J.
Published: December 2024

Introduction
As medical cannabis becomes more accessible, product quality must be evaluated. Researchers identified a social media community where Florida medical cannabis patients discuss personal experiences. The objective of this study was to analyze posts in this community to understand patient experience with products purchased from Florida medical dispensaries they believed to be contamination, perceptions of product quality, and desired changes to the Florida program.
Methods
Social networking theory acted as the underlying framework, and we employed a qualitative case study design to identify mentions of possible contamination and understand patient perceptions of contamination and the Florida medical cannabis program from the Reddit community FLMedicalTrees. The lead researcher conducted a social media analysis of posts identified as containing discussions relevant to product contamination. Constant comparison methods were used to code data, arrive at themes, and maintain validity and reliability of interpretation of coded themes.
Results
Of 300 post mentions of contamination, 98 posts were identified as relevant following review. Key results were:
1. Multiple mentions of possible contamination for products from medical cannabis dispensaries reported by Florida program patients.
2. Patients sought second opinions when concerned about possible contamination and shared personal experiences as well as advice on what concerned patients should do if they believe they have contaminated products.
3. Some patients expressed feelings of anxiety and worry about health, safety, and quality control, while others that described possible product contamination did not express concern.
4. Patients wanted changes regarding vertical integration, company accountability, state oversight, and home grow law.
Conclusions
Medical cannabis patients and providers could benefit from education on responding to possible contamination within medical cannabis products. Policymakers should consider these findings when setting regulations around contamination testing thresholds, dispensary oversight, and other regulations that directly impact patient safety like allowing patients to see products before purchase.
Antwerp, Zutphen, Venlo and Geldern
Authors: Oosterman Johan
Published: December 2024

In the first half of the 16th century, extensive collections of songs were compiled in various cities in the Netherlands. The Antwerp Songbook of 1544, which was published in print, is the best known and most comprehensive. This suggests that the focus of song culture was to be found in Antwerp. However, the Zutphen Songbook (Weimar, HAAB, Cod. Oct. 146) and the Venlo-Geldrische Hausbuch (Brussels, KBR, II 144) show that there was also a rich song culture in the eastern regions. This raises questions about the centers of Netherlandish song culture at the beginning of the 16th century, about the interaction between the different territories and about the motives of the various collectors.
A Daring Book
Authors: Lionetto Adeline
Published: December 2024

In 1612, Toussaint du Bray, a renowned Parisian bookseller, publishes a daring anthology: Le Recueil des plus excellents ballets de ce temps, a collection of texts borrowed from ballets of his time. In this article, the author tries to highlight the fact that Toussaint du Bray’s approach constitutes an extremely strong gesture that decisively contributes to the emergence of a true editorial genre. While attempting to address this question, the author will also seek to assess the political significance of this selection of ballets.
Zwischen Anthologisierung und Eigenwerbung
Authors: Laureys Marc
Published: December 2024

The four collections of Delitiae, arranged by nation, which the Heidelberg professor and librarian Janus Gruterus published between 1608 and 1614 in a total of fifteen volumes, far exceed the scope of earlier Neo-Latin anthologies. However, the selection principles of the individual pieces, the arrangement and classification of the poems, the relationship of their respective text versions to earlier drafts or editions, and the precise aims and ambitions that Gruterus had for this project still await detailed investigation. In this article, only one facet of this set of questions will be examined in depth. In the second volume of his Delitiae C. poetarum Belgicorum, Gruterus fills around 200 pages with his own poems. An attempt will be made to interpret what this self-anthologization reveals about the genesis and impact of Gruterus’ Neo-Latin anthologies.
“Zu einem Muster vnnd Fürbilde”
Authors: Niefanger Dirk
Published: December 2024

Julius Wilhelm Zincgref’s supplement to Martin Opitz’s Deutsche Pöemata, the “Anhange Underschiedlicher außgesuchter Getichten anderer mehr teutschen Poeten” (1624), is considered the first German-language anthology. Like Opitz’ Buch von der Deutschen Poeterey and his collection of poetry, it served to establish German as a language of poetry in the European context and to position Zincgref in the cultural field alongside – and in unspoken competition with – Opitz. It also helped to commemorate older German-language poetry from the southwest German-speaking region. The anthology thus appears as a central literary document in the transition between humanism, the Reformation period and the Baroque. The article deals with the editorial presentation in the first edition, determines cultural-historical contexts and explains central functions of the anthology against the background of current research.
Disrupted Time Perception Underlies Motivational Disturbances in Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Morris Lee-Anne , Horne Kyla-Louise , Manohar Sanjay , Paermentier Laura , Buchanan Christina M. , MacAskill Michael , Myall Daniel , Roxburgh Richard , Anderson Tim , Le Heron Campbell
Published: December 2024

Our sense of time is fundamental to interacting with the world in a goal-directed manner, with decisions underpinning goal pursuit utilising timing circuits in the seconds-to-minutes range. A reduction in goal-directed behaviour — apathy — is common in Huntington’s disease (HD), but no work has examined whether altered time perception could be a contributing mechanism. We investigated whether timing deficits were evident in HD apathy. Genetically confirmed carriers of the HD mutation (premanifest to mild manifest disease, n = 39) and healthy controls (n = 20) performed a time production task with active (press) and passive (wait) modes of production, alongside clinical and behavioural measures. Overall, people with HD underproduced target times whilst controls performed in near-optimal manner. In HD, there were significant interactions between condition (press/wait) and both apathy and impulsivity (apathy × condition: t = −3.8, p = 0.0002; impulsivity × condition: t = −3.3, p = 0.001). This was driven by people with either of these behavioural disturbances producing shorter times in the passive condition, relative to people without these behaviours. Whilst global timing deficits were evident in HD, further differences were evident as a function of apathy and impulsivity, whereby people thought more time had passed than really had, specifically when passively waiting. Altered time perception when passively waiting may alter estimation of environmental reward rates and subsequent decisions of when to act. Overall, and demonstrated in human neurological disease, we show that timing processes and motivated behaviours are fundamentally linked.
Meneroka Pengajian Al-Quran dan Tafsir di Media Sosial Menerusi Analisis Saluran YouTube
Authors: Abd Razzak Monika @ Munirah , Mohamed Siti Nurwanis , Ab. Rahim Nik Mohd Zaim
Published: December 2024

The digitalization era has witnessed various advancements in information and communication technology. In Malaysia, in particular, society has increasingly relied on new media channels to obtain quick and efficient information, such as social media. This involves issues related to religion, the economy, politics, and more. This article aims to examine YouTube channels that actively upload videos related to the Quran and exegesis for sharing with the audience. Additionally, it identifies the types of applications used in these videos. This study employs a qualitative method with a content analysis approach to gather data. The results reveal that out of 80 top-ranked Islamic channels on YouTube, 40 discuss the Quran and its branches of knowledge. Furthermore, there are a variety of video formats, including webinars, lectures, forums, debates, tutorials on Tajweed, Tarannum, and Qiraat, animations created with PowerPoint, Moovly, Powtoon, kinetic typography, GoAnimate, films, daily vlogs, games, and more. Therefore, through these discussions, it is hoped that Muslims can benefit from the information and knowledge obtained from YouTube sources while ensuring their authenticity and adherence to true Islamic teachings.
When ‘Antiquity’ Meets ‘Modernity’ in Postcolonial Africa: Misrepresentation at Cultural Heritage Tourist Sites along East African Coastlines
Authors: Lusekelo Amani
Published: December 2024

Recent widely received claims about postcolonial Africa do not reflect any clear-cut connection between contemporary society and indigenous black African cultures as they prevailed before the colonial era, nor do they capture accurately the ways that European culture influenced – or failed to impact altogether – Africans during colonialism. Nor do proclamations about postcolonial reality present very well the hybrid linguistic cultures emerging after colonialism in contemporary settings where Africans interact with foreigners at high levels of intensity. Representation of the historical contribution of indigenous black African cultures to the hybridity of postcolonial settings is woefully incomplete. Further, there is a total absence of proper signage appropriate for those individuals whose heritage is the focus of foreigners gazing in situ at black African historical cultures. The evidence provided here is gathered from three linguistic landscapes along the East African coastline: Bagamoyo and Zanzibar in Tanzania, Mombasa in Kenya, and from West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea coast at Ouidah in Benin.
Beyond the Death of God and the Birth of Homo-Deus: a Call for Universal Values
Authors: Mbirigenda Shukrani Kassian
Published: December 2024

A major development in world history was witnessed in the 1980s, as anticipated by Friedrich Nietzsche in the nineteenth century; viz. the death of God and the rise of Ubermensch [Superman]. This new version of being human, Homo-Deus, is a product of globalisation relentlessly imposed through our current age of electronic communications. The internet has become of a crucible where Homo-Deus’ isolated, subjective a-moral values are imposed, absorbed by a boundless society through the influence of anonymous repetitions performed in isolation, and thus the world wide web creates a-moral and uncritical modes of life, embraced by everyone without any reflective vetting process. Without location in any cultural heritage, and no identity with any community, the anonymity of Homo-Deus leaves every individual aimless and without a cogent, collectively approved set of values to guide their social interactions. The Superman needs to be redirected morally, in order to pre-empt the emergence of a totally chaotic society.
Getting your message across? The evolution of leader vision and managed pluralisation of leadership
Authors: Kislov Roman , Bresnen Mike , Harvey Gill
Published: December 2024

Whereas vision is central to understanding leadership influence in organisations, it has mostly been explored either in predominantly hierarchical or predominantly pluralistic contexts. We know relatively little about how the processual dynamics, content and sources of vision evolve when senior teams are undergoing a transition from hierarchical to collective leadership. Drawing upon a qualitative longitudinal study undertaken within a UK-based academic–practitioner partnership in the healthcare sector, we examine the transitions and transformations in leader vision triggered by deliberate attempts to pluralise leadership arrangements in its senior team. We develop a process model that highlights three stages in the evolution of vision (‘problematising’, ‘debating’ and ‘accepting’) and accounts for variation in how different components of vision develop over time. Our contribution lies in underscoring the heterogeneous, temporally fluid and contested nature of vision; its continuous shaping as a result of the dynamic interplay between individualistic and collectivistic forces; and the multifocal and multidirectional agentic influences involved in its evolution. We argue that managed pluralisation, viewed as an interplay between hierarchical and collective forms of control, leads to accommodation and incorporation of divergent views within the evolving shared vision, facilitating acceptance but diluting the potential of the resulting vision to stimulate change.
Working from Home, COVID-19, and Job Satisfaction
Authors: Laß Inga , Vera-Toscano Esperanza , Wooden Mark
Published: December 2024

This article examines the impact of the growth in the incidence of working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic on workers’ job satisfaction. Using longitudinal data collected in 2019 and 2021 as part of the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey, fixed-effects models of job satisfaction are estimated. Changes in the share of total weekly work hours usually worked from home are not found to have any significant association with changes in job satisfaction for men. By contrast, a strong significant positive (but nonlinear) association is found for women, and this relationship is concentrated on women with children. These findings suggest the main benefit of working from home for workers arises from the improved ability to combine work and family responsibilities, something that matters more to women given they continue to shoulder most of the responsibility for house and care work.
“We Are Still Not Counted As Human”: Contesting Unfreedom from Below in South Africa
Authors: Pithouse Richard
Published: December 2024

This interview with S’bu Zikode, cofounder and current leader of Abahlali baseMjondolo, the largest popular movement to have emerged in South Africa after apartheid, was conducted a month before the 30th anniversary of the formal end of apartheid. Zikode gives an account of the arc of his life, and that of the movement, illuminating the costs of progressive political commitment in Durban, a city where political violence is routine. Zikode also explains some of the key elements of his political thought, which centers around a radicalized African humanism in which the idea of dignity is central.
‘Corruption talk’ and the politics of class in 21st century Britain
Authors: Hilhorst Sacha , Lee Koch Insa , Fransham Mark , Reeves Aaron , Savage Mike
Published: December 2024

Scholars have diagnosed widespread class disidentification among working-class citizens in contemporary Britain despite high and sustained levels of inequality. Everyday narrations in working-class communities, however, reveal deeply classed accounts of politics and society, even if not expressed in the formal idiom of class. Across our field sites, practices of corruption talk were rife and aided citizens in making sense of their experiences of political powerlessness and economic dispossession. Drawing on political ethnographic studies from working-class areas in Oxford, Corby and Mansfield, and buttressed by survey data, we find that corruption talk can act as an informal political ontology. An analysis of international survey data on corruption perceptions and class identification further substantiates our ethnographic findings about the resonance and character of corruption talk. Following the Marxist historian E. P. Thompson, we argue that corruption talk reveals the complex and at times contradictory ways in which marginalised citizens define and narrate their relationship to politics and state power under conditions of class fragmentation. These findings highlight, we argue, the importance of paying attention to vernacular discourses and call into question straightforwardly teleological accounts of the decline of class consciousness in the past 50 years.
Gender as Management Capital: An Experimental Exploration
Authors: Baniamin Hasan Muhammad , Jamil Ishtiaq , Paudel Narendra Raj , Dhakal Prabin Babu
Published: December 2024

This study investigates whether female superiors can be considered a form of management capital. To explore this, our research question is: Do female superiors receive higher compliance with management directives from their subordinates than male superiors? Using a survey experiment with Nepalese civil servants ( n = 858), the study finds that compliance with managerial directives is higher when the superior is female. This effect may be influenced by the differing attitudes typically associated with male and female superiors (agentic vs. communal). The research reveals gender dynamics among subordinates, showing that female subordinates are more reluctant to comply with male superiors compared to male subordinates. However, their willingness to comply increases when the request comes from a female superior. This variation may stem from female subordinates perceiving male superiors as less considerate than female superiors, particularly when assigning tasks such as carrying out inspections in remote hilly areas.
Nonlinear force transfer characteristic analysis of active suspension for emergency rescue vehicles
Authors: Zhu Jianxu , Zhao Dingxuan , Chen Hao , Gong Mingde , Yang Mengke , Gao Zhigang
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a nonlinear force transfer model for active suspension. First of all, according to the motion analysis of Mcpherson suspension, the force transfer characteristics between the three-dimensional force on tire contact point and the output force of suspension cylinder was studied. Then the friction force between the piston rod and the cylinder body was analyzed. Combined with the force transfer characteristics and the friction force, the nonlinear force transfer model was established which expressed the relationship between the pressure of cylinder cavities and the three-dimensional force at the tire contact point. Finally, the test is carried out on the three-axis emergency rescue vehicle, and the results show that, compared with the simplified active suspension model the ME and RMSE values of the force transfer model are reduced by 93.97%, and 78.31%, respectively. The nonlinear force transfer model can provide more accurate data support for the operation and control of active suspension system.
Addressing Wetland Flood Disasters Through Community-led Strategies in Bangladesh
Authors: Datta Ranjan , Kairy Barsha , Hurlbert Margot
Published: December 2024

This study focused on mitigating wetland flood disasters in Bangladesh through community-led strategies, particularly in land-based minority communities. Wetland ecosystems, integral to the country’s landscape, are increasingly vulnerable to floods exacerbated by climate change. Recognising the intersectionality of environmental challenges and community well-being led to proactively addressing the impacts of wetland floods. This study uses participatory methods to engage minority communities, particularly those in the wetland regions. Focusing on local community-engaged approaches, the research aims to develop community-led adaptive strategies. The study emphasises the active participation of community members in decision-making processes through a community-led approach, enhancing resilience and sustainability. The study also explores the role of women in these community-led initiatives, acknowledging their unique perspectives and contributions to adaptive strategies. Ultimately, the findings aspire to inform policy frameworks and global discourse on disaster resilience, offering insights into how community-led strategies can serve as effective models in mitigating the impact of wetland flood disasters and foster a sense of hope and optimism for the future.
Distal radial artery palpability and successful arterial access for coronary angiography: A post-hoc analysis from two randomized trials
Authors: Apostolos Anastasios , Papanikolaou Amalia , Papageorgiou Angeliki , Moulias Athanasios , Vasilagkos Georgios , Pappelis Konstantinos , Aminian Adel , Sgueglia Gregory A. , Iglesias Juan F. , Davlouros Periklis , Tsigkas Grigorios
Published: December 2024

Background:

Distal radial artery access (DRA) has been emerged as an alternative for conventional transradial arterial access. While palpation of radial artery is mandatory prior coronary angiography, it remains unknown the clinical impact of palpation in DRA success. Aim of our study is to explore whether the palpability of distal radial artery is linked with higher rates of successful arterial access.

Methods:

We conducted a post-hoc analysis using data from two randomized-controlled trials on DRA. All patients with available data on distal radial artery palpability and cannulation’s success were included in our analysis. No procedure was performed with ultrasound guidance.

Results:

Data on the palpability of the distal radial artery and the DRA success were available for 435 patients. Successful distal radial artery cannulation was attempted in 255 and 98 of patients with and without palpable distal radial artery, respectively. No significant difference between the two groups was observed (81.5% vs 80.3%, p = 0.786). Univariate analysis revealed statistically significant difference in gender, height, known CAD, valvular disease as indication for angiography and number of skin punctures. Multivariate analysis included these variables, as well as palpability of the distal radial artery and found that number of skin punctures and valvular disease as indication are significantly associated with DRA success.

Conclusion:

According our post-hoc analysis, the palpability of the distal radial artery is not associated with higher rates of DRA success. Further studies are required for the validation of these results.
Career Boundary Crossing: The Importance of Networks for the Transition from the Military to Civilian Employment
Authors: Roth Silke
Published: December 2024

Research on the transition from the military to civilian life tends to focus on challenges such as unemployment, alcoholism, violence, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) even though these problems affect only a minority of veterans. In contrast, this study analyses what forms of economic, cultural, and social capital (Bourdieu) are obtained during military training and service and how they are transferred to civilian employment. I argue that during the transition from the military to civilian employment, all three forms of capital are important. In particular, social capital in the form of formal and informal networks plays a crucial role with respect to transferring cultural capital or skills from one field to the other, but also for the investment (or borrowing) of economic capital. Boundary crossing between different fields – in this case organisational and work cultures–requires the transformation of habitus. The notion of a ‘veterans’ habitus’ is introduced. This study contributes to the understanding of career transitions and is based on biographical interviews with veterans who served in the British military.
Caste, Gender and the Development Interface: A Study of Vikas Mitra Scheme Among Musahar Women in Bihar
Authors: Priyanandini
Published: December 2024

In an effort to develop the disadvantaged dalit population, the Bihar Government introduced a category called ‘Mahadalit’. Under the rubric of this nomenclature, many schemes have been introduced to uplift the Mahadalits, including the Musahars, often described as ‘dalit among dalits’. One such scheme is the Vikas Mitras scheme, which aims to appoint people from the Mahadalit population to the lowest position in the bureaucracy, envisioning them to emerge as ‘change agents’. In this scheme, fifty per cent of the positions are reserved for the Mahadalit women. The article presents an ethnographic study of the experiences of Musahar women navigating through the bureaucracy as Vikas Mitras while engaging with their intersectional identities related to caste, class and gender. The reflexive engagement with the scheme’s intent and reality on the field raises critical questions about the broader categories of development, empowerment, intersectionality and depoliticisation.
Clinical Use of Home OCT Data to Manage Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Heier Jeffrey S. , Liu Yingna , Holekamp Nancy M. , Ali Mohsin H. , Astafurov Konstantin , Blinder Kevin J. , Busquets Miguel A. , Chica Moises A. , Elman Michael J. , Fein Jordana G. , Hahn Paul , London Nikolas , Margolis Thomas , Modi Yasha S. , Rachitskaya Aleksandra , Schneider Eric W. , Stoller Glenn L. , Wang Jay C. , Shah Ankoor R.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To investigate how home optical coherence tomography (OCT) influences the clinical decision-making of retina specialists for the management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Methods: In this retrospective imaging review, 15 retina specialists each evaluated 10 home OCT data segments from 29 eyes being treated for nAMD. Based on OCT data, indications were identified for when eyes should be treated, which antivascular endothelial growth factor should be used, and the specific retinal fluid and time thresholds for notification. Results: Withholding treatment was recommended in 64 (42.7%) of 150 data segments (95% CI, 34.7-50.6), whereas 100% of eyes received treatment on the last day of each data segment. Treatment was recommended in 86 cases (57.3%), with treatment occurring 7 or more days before the actual treatment was advised in 52 (60.5%) of 86 data segments. This earlier treatment would have prevented the accumulation of intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), and total retinal fluid for 69.1 nL, 162.2 nL, and 231.2 nL days. Retina specialists chose a different type of treatment agent in 35 (40%) of 86 cases. The following notification values were set: IRF, mean 9.8 ± 14.9 nL (median, 5; IQR, 5); SRF, mean 10.2 ± 16.1 nL (median, 5.5; IQR, 5); total retinal fluid, mean 15.2 ± 24.0 nL (median, 10; IQR, 5). The time-based notification interval was set at a mean of 34.7 ± 21.9 days (median, 30; IQR, 2). Conclusions: Home OCT-based decision-making by retina specialists differed substantially from actual clinical care. Home OCT has the potential to facilitate personalized care in nAMD.
Wound formation in patients with Rutherford category IV disease after endovascular therapy: rates and risk factors
Authors: Kishida Toshihiko , Mori Shinsuke , Yamaguchi Kohei , Tsutsumi Masakazu , Kobayashi Norihiro , Ito Yoshiaki
Published: December 2024

Background

Lower limb peripheral artery disease classified as Rutherford category IV, is characterized by lower limb ischemic pain both during exertion and at rest. This disease has an unclear course. We aimed to evaluate outcome predictors in this patient group after endovascular therapy. This single-center, retrospective, observational study included 234 consecutive patients (264 limbs), between April 2007 and December 2020. We investigated the disease clinical course after endovascular therapy. The primary endpoint was the wound formation rate 3 years after endovascular therapy.

Results

The mean observation period was 48.2 ± 8.9 months. The patients (61.9% male; mean age, 76 ± 10 years) presented with diabetes (64.1%), and received hemodialysis with chronic kidney disease (35.0%) and ambulatory treatment (85.0%). The average ankle-brachial index before endovascular therapy was 0.69 ± 0.23. Skin perfusion pressure on the dorsal and plantar sides was 38 ± 13 mmHg and 36 ± 12 mmHg, respectively. The wound incidence rates at 1, 2, and 3 years after endovascular therapy were 8.3%, 11.4%, and 14.4%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed the following factors associated with wound formation: P2 in inframalleolar/pedal disease category in the Global Limb Anatomical Staging System (hazard ratio: 1.73, 95% confidence interval: 1.22–2.83, P = 0.01), non-ambulatory status (hazard ratio: 1.09, 95% confidence interval: 1.11–1.36, P = 0.02), intervention up to infrapopliteal lesion (hazard ratio: 1.55, 95% confidence interval: 1.17–2.46, P = 0.03), and patient with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis (hazard ratio: 1.61, 95% confidence interval: 1.32–2.18, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

The 3-year incidence of wound onset in this study was 14.4%. Factors associated with this outcome included P2 in the Global Limb Anatomical Staging System, non-ambulatory status, intervention up to infrapopliteal lesion, and patient with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis.
Implantação da Vigilância Ambiental das Riquetsioses no Estado do Ceará no período de 2010 a 2022
Authors: Cavalcante Robson da Costa , Pivisan Nayara Camila Amorim de Alvarenga , Da Silva Luiz Osvaldo Rodrigues , Da Silva Francisco Bergson Pinheiro , Gomes Ricristhi Gonçalves de Aguiar , Oliveira Roberta de Paula , De Faria Ana Carolina Mota , Borsoi Ana Beatriz Pais , Gazêta Gilberto Salles
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: o presente trabalho teve por objetivo investigar e caracterizar a presença de Rickettsia spp., em carrapatos que se encontram próximo ao convívio humano e contribuir com o conhecimento sobre vetores de riquetsioses no Ceará, e seu controle. Métodos: durante o período de 2010 a 2022, foi promovida a capacitação técnica em vigilância de ambientes da Febre Maculosa para 402 agentes comunitários de endemias, através de palestras e trabalhos de campo com prática de busca ativa por catação direta de potenciais vetores de Rickettsia spp., em hospedeiros vertebrados, residências e ambientes em área rural, urbana e periférica de municípios com ou sem casos notificados de riquetsioses em humanos. Resultados: foram coletados 9.652 potenciais vetores distribuídos em 15 espécies de carrapatos. Atualmente 48 municípios estão envolvidos na vigilância, destes 25 (52%) apresentaram vetores infectados naturalmente com cinco espécies de riquétias. Conclusão: os resultados mostram a importância dessa iniciativa e apontam para a necessidade da manutenção permanente e da ampliação da vigilância, qualificando as equipes de profissionais de saúde, a fim de aprimorar o conhecimento sobre a doença, fundamental para o delineamento de estratégias de prevenção e controle.
Evaluating a targeted selective speech, language, and communication intervention at scale – Protocol for the Happy Talk cluster randomised controlled trial.
Authors: Frizelle Pauline , O'Shea Aoife , Murphy Aileen , Dahly Darren , McKean Cristina
Published: December 2024

Background In areas of social disadvantage up to 40–50% of children enter preschool with speech and language skills significantly poorer than would be expected for their age. The Happy Talk trial tests if a community embedded, targeted selective speech and language programme that simultaneously engages with parents and early childhood educators, (1) improves language outcomes in children aged between 2 years 10 months and 6 years and (2) is cost effective for the health care system. Method The Happy Talk trial is a large scale cluster randomised trial of a 12-week manualised intervention delivered in pre/school settings serving socially disadvantaged communities, in Ireland. Seventy-two clusters will receive the intervention (12 participants per cluster). Parents and pre/school staff engage in group training and coaching in the form of 12 1-hour sessions for parents and four staff workshops, over the course of the pre/school year. Training/coaching includes core interaction skills (modelling, expanding, balancing questions and comments), early literacy and phonological awareness. Blinded assessments pre- and immediately post-intervention and at 6 months follow up, will measure the primary outcomes of children’s receptive and expressive language and functional impact, and secondary outcomes of quality of life. Parental responsiveness and educator-child interactions will also be evaluated. Discussion This robust study evaluates a public health approach to the delivery of speech language and communication intervention in the ‘real world’ in the community, which focuses on prevention and equity of access. Pilot work indicates that the programme is feasible, acceptable to parents and staff, cost effective, and suitable for implementation at scale. The trial includes a process evaluation, a well-developed economic evaluation and the outcomes are directly relevant to children, families and educators. This work has the potential to improve the long-term outcomes and life chances of people living in social disadvantage. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov NCT06460090 Trial Management There is a formal governance structure to oversee the conduct and running of the trial, consisting of a trial management group and a steering committee. More details on the composition, roles and responsibilities of each committee can be found in the supplemental material.
The reconstruction and new role of the defense industry in Central Europe - experiences from the war in Ukraine
Authors: Gołota Łukasz
Published: December 2024

This paper presents two major issues. Firstly, the impact of Russian aggression on how security is perceived in Central Europe, and secondly, the importance of changing security policies, with a special focus on the defense industry. Our findings in these areas will permit us to answer the main question of the research - on the reconstruction and new role of the defense industry in Central Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The arms industry was one of the pillars of the Cold War economic and political system, and was a crucial asset in the blocks’ rivalry. The collapse of the Soviet Union marked the beginning of a structural transformation in Central Europe. Released from the Soviet grip, countries in the region turned to Western institutions and became an important part of them. The year 1989 seemed to close a period of tough historical experience, and the 30 years that followed were a time of peace and growing prosperity. Yet a resurgence of Russian imperialism brought old anxieties back to the surface and ultimately caused Europe’s architecture of security to falter. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 released the demons of the past, and has seriously reoriented politics - not only in Central and Eastern Europe.
The therapeutic potential of exercise in post-traumatic stress disorder and its underlying mechanisms: A living systematic review of human and non-human studies
Authors: Wright Simonne , Chiocchia Virginia , Elugbadebo Olufisayo , Simple Ouma , Furukawa Toshi A. , Friedrich Claire , Austin Charlotte , Dehdarirad Hossein , Gilbert David , Kennett Jaycee , Ostinelli Edoardo G. , Potts Jennifer , Ramage Fiona , Sena Emily , Siafis Spyridon , Stansfield Claire , Thomas James , Tinsdeall Francesca , Tonia Thomy , Macleod Malcolm , Cipriani Andrea , Salanti Georgia , Seedat Soraya
Published: December 2024

Background Exercise for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a potentially effective adjunct to psychotherapy. However, the biopsychosocial mechanisms of exercise are not well understood. This co-produced living systematic review synthesizes evidence from human and non-human studies. Methods We Included controlled human and non-human studies involving searches of multiple electronic databases (until 31.10.23). Records were screened, extracted, assessed for risk of bias, and reconciled by two independent reviewers. The primary outcome for human studies was PTSD symptom severity, while outcomes of interest for non-human studies included freezing behaviour, fear memory, fear generalization, startle response, and locomotion. Data were synthesised with random-effects meta-analysis. Results Eleven human studies met the eligibility criteria. Overall, exercise was not associated with symptom severity improvement compared to control (standardized mean difference [SMD] -0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.24 to 0.07; 8 studies, one at low risk of bias). High-intensity exercise reduced PTSD symptoms scores more than moderate-intensity exercise. There was insufficient data to examine the effects of exercise on functional impairment, PTSD symptom clusters, and PTSD remission. Only three studies, all at high risk of bias, examined mechanisms of exercise with inconclusive results. Exercise was associated with improvement in all behavioural outcomes, including locomotor activity (SMD 1.30, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.87, 14 studies), and changes in several neurobiological markers, including increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (SMD 1.79, 95% CI 0.56 to 3.01). Conclusions While non-human studies provide compelling evidence for the beneficial effects of exercise, human trials do not. Evidence from non-human studies suggest that exercise might increase the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, enhance cognitive appraisal, and improve perceived exertion. Overall, the paucity of data on the effectiveness of exercise in PTSD and mechanisms of action underscore the need for rigorous trials. Registration The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (ID:453615; 22.08.2023).
Association of home and neighbourhood conditions with anxiety and depression symptoms during the COVID-19 lockdown: Findings from the ALSPAC cohort
Authors: Pinkney Connor , Kirkbride James , Boyd Andy , Thomas Richard , Zammit Stanley , Newbury Joanne
Published: December 2024

Background The first COVID-19 lockdown in the UK entailed widespread social restrictions, including instructions to stay at home at all times. This created a natural quasi-experiment, during which time home and neighbourhood conditions may have been especially important to mental health. However, evidence on this topic is scarce. Methods Using data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), a UK population-based cohort, we examined associations of home and neighbourhood conditions with anxiety and depression symptoms during the first UK lockdown in 2020, when participants were approximately 28 years of age. Questionnaires were completed at two timepoints (T1: April; T2: May/June) and included validated measures of anxiety (GAD-7) and depression (SMFQ); as well as questions about current home conditions and behaviours. Neighbourhood conditions were obtained via linkage, and included population density, neighbourhood deprivation, social fragmentation, and greenspace. Main associations were examined using linear regression. Potential confounders were identified using a directed acyclic graph and included ethnicity, family psychiatric history, maternal social class, financial difficulties and unemployment before lockdown, and anxiety and depression at ages 18 and 24. Results At T1 after considering confounders, reduced access to nature (B=0.48, 95% CI=0.26-0.70, p<0.001) and neighbourhood deprivation (B=0.25, 95% CI=0.04-0.47, p=0.024) were associated with anxiety. Furthermore, reduced access to nature (B=0.43, 95% CI=0.20-0.66, p=0.001), no garden access (B=0.22, 95% CI=0.01-0.43, p=0.043), living alone (B=0.33, 95% CI=0.13-0.53, p=0.002), and neighbourhood deprivation (B=0.22, 95% CI=0.00-0.44, p=0.048) were associated with depression. There were fewer associations at T2. Conclusion Disadvantaged home and neighbourhood conditions were associated with more anxiety and depression symptoms during the first UK lockdown. The findings underscore the importance of home and neighbourhood conditions for mental health and highlight potential interventions such as improved urban design to increase access to nature and reduce isolation. However, the causality of the findings is uncertain.