bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transfer of Tactile Learning to Untrained Body Parts: Emerging Cortical Mechanisms
Authors: Frank Sebastian M.
Published: May 2024

Pioneering investigations in the mid-19th century revealed that the perception of tactile cues presented to the surface of the skin improves with training, which is referred to as tactile learning. Surprisingly, tactile learning also occurs for body parts and skin locations that are not physically involved in the training. For example, after training of a finger, tactile learning transfers to adjacent untrained fingers. This suggests that the transfer of tactile learning follows a somatotopic pattern and involves brain regions such as the primary somatosensory cortex (S1), in which the trained and untrained body parts and skin locations are represented close to each other. However, other results showed that transfer occurs between body parts that are not represented close to each other in S1—for example, between the hand and the foot. These and similar findings have led to the suggestion of additional cortical mechanisms to explain the transfer of tactile learning. Here, different mechanisms are reviewed, and the extent to which they can explain the transfer of tactile learning is discussed. What all of these mechanisms have in common is that they assume a representational or functional relationship between the trained and untrained body parts and skin locations. However, none of these mechanisms alone can explain the complex pattern of transfer results, and it is likely that different mechanisms interact to enable transfer, perhaps in concert with higher somatosensory and decision-making areas.
A case of palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia in a lung cancer patient receiving atezolizumab maintenance
Authors: Teymouri Farzad , Dasanu Constantin A.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are linked with various cutaneous side effects ranging from mild to life-threatening. Herein, we present a unique case of palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (PPE) in a patient treated with atezolizumab.

Case report

A 72-year-old white man was diagnosed with Tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) stage IIIA lung adenocarcinoma in November 2022. He underwent right lower lobectomy and mediastinal lymphadenectomy followed by adjuvant cisplatin-pemetrexed. As of May 2023, he did not have any evidence of relapse. He then started switch maintenance therapy with atezolizumab. At 24 weeks, the patient developed erythematous palmar skin lesions, followed by blisters and peeling of both palms, which were associated with swelling and pain, consistent with grade 2 PPE.

Management and outcome

Causality assessment between nivolumab and PPE via adverse drug reaction probability scale revealed a score of 5. Atezolizumab was continued, and he started on a cream consisting of trolamine and 75% water to palms twice daily. A follow-up visit 6 weeks later showed significant improvement in symptoms and appearance of palmar lesions.

Discussion

Cutaneous side effects are commonly seen with ICIs. PPE is a common dermatologic toxicity of certain tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). This effect has been previously reported with combination therapies consisting of an ICI plus a TKIs, but not with ICI monotherapy. Awareness of this potential side effect of ICIs would prevent unnecessary work-up, and lead to its prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Caring Boyhood? A Qualitative Study of the Complex Relation Between Care, Adolescence, and Masculinity
Authors: Scholz Sylka , Schwarzenbacher Iris , Leja Kevin , Başer Nadine N.
Published: May 2024

The relation between masculinities and care is theoretically and empirically researched via the term caring masculinities. Until now, research has focused on adult men and has not explored the question of how care orientations are developed through processes of socialization. This article, therefore, presents findings on care experiences of adolescent boys. Based on 89 qualitative interviews that were analyzed using the deep hermeneutic method and grounded theory, four types of care orientations were identified. We find that care plays a significant role in boys’ lives, whereby the degrees of caring attitudes and practices as well as the specific connections between care and masculinity vary significantly. The article shows that pronounced care orientations are not necessarily accompanied by a rejection of traditional norms of masculinity and domination, as some scholars on caring masculinities suggest. We therefore argue for an open-minded approach to analyzing the ambivalent relation between care and masculinity.
Between the Hammer of Tradition and the Anvil of Occupation: Men and Masculinity in the Palestinian Occupied Territories
Authors: Hussein Elham , Nusair Lama , Daoud Sumaya , Muhaidat Fatima
Published: May 2024

The current study focuses on the notion of masculinity in Palestinian culture and the challenges Palestinian civilian men face while attempting to fulfill their traditional gender-based roles within the context of occupation. The core elements of Palestinian manhood and masculinity are established through an in-depth examination of a body of proverbs that are still in circulation in Palestinian society today. Drawing on recent discussions related to masculinity, this study is the first of its kind to illustrate how proverbs contribute to the sociocultural construction of ideas on manhood and promote patriarchal views and sexist ideologies, which are harmful to men, women, and the family as the core unit of the social fabric. Through exploring the current living situation of civilian men in the occupied Palestinian territories, we aim to highlight the fact that the entrapment between the anvil of rigid traditions and the hammer of the oppressive practices of a military occupation negatively affects the wellbeing of men and often leads to displaced aggression and violence.
Study on Allele Specific Expression of Long-Term Residents in High Altitude Areas
Authors: He Chao , Zhu Bin , Gao Wenwen , Wu Qianjin , Zhang Changshui
Published: May 2024

In diploid organisms, half of the chromosomes in each cell come from the father and half from the mother. Through previous studies, it was found that the paternal chromosome and the maternal chromosome can be regulated and expressed independently, leading to the emergence of allele specific expression (ASE). In this study, we analyzed the differential expression of alleles in the high-altitude population and the normal population based on the RNA sequencing data. Through gene cluster analysis and protein interaction network analysis, we found some changes occurred at the gene level, and some negative effects. During the study, we realized that the calmodulin homology domain may have a certain correlation with long-term survival at high altitude. The plateau environment is characterized by hypoxia, low air pressure, strong ultraviolet radiation, and low temperature. Accordingly, the genetic changes in the process of adaptation are mainly reflected in these characteristics. High altitude generation living is also highly related to cancer, immune disease, cardiovascular disease, neurological disease, endocrine disease, and other diseases. Therefore, the medical system in high altitude areas should pay more attention to these diseases.
The consequences of “benevolent” colonial powers and structural inequities in the implementation of Jordan’s Principle in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Gerlach Alison J , Sinha Vandna , Lach Lucy , Balfour Marcel , Flett Maryann E
Published: May 2024

Jordan’s Principle is a legal requirement for the Canadian government to address gaps in services for First Nations children and ensure timely services that meet their needs and best interests. This article synthesizes and discusses some of the key research findings described in a report on the implementation of Jordan’s Principle in Manitoba, produced by a team of academic researchers in partnership with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. Findings provide insights into a relational approach to the implementation of Jordan’s Principle and inter-related structural factors that constrain the efficacy of this approach. Findings reinforce the need for First Nations–led processes and Jordan’s Principle policies that fully fund and support First Nations in addressing high caseloads and growing waiting lists, complex responsibilities, stress and staff turnover, administrative burden, and inadequate physical and digital infrastructure. Sufficient resources for First Nations capacity enhancement initiatives and regional coordination and support are also identified priorities.
Total Control: “Black bitch” offending the offenders
Authors: Carlson Bronwyn
Published: May 2024

Total Control (2019–2024) is a political drama that follows the story of Rachel Griffiths as the prime minister of so-called Australia and Deborah Mailman as her political rival. Available on demand on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) iView, Total Control was initially called “Black Bitch” to draw attention to the historical racial slur but was forced to change its title due to a social media storm. Total Control demonstrates striking parallels with the treatment of real-life Indigenous women in politics. This article looks at the role of social media as a platform that provides a way for Indigenous women to engage in public politics. It discusses these technologies as providing settlers with the means to publicly malign Indigenous women. It draws from research on the use and abuse of social media in relation to Indigenous users and is underscored by the blurred boundary between fiction and non-fiction Indigenous realities.
The Feasibility and Reliability of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients With Negative Axillary Lymph Nodes—A Meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Mengjie , Liu Yu , Huang Zenan , Zhu Qingqing , Huang Yong
Published: May 2024

Background:

The application of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has expanded from early breast cancer to locally advanced breast cancer with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). For patients with negative axillary lymph nodes, performing SLNB before or after NAC remains controversial.

Objectives:

To evaluate the diagnostic feasibility and reliability of SLNB after NAC in breast cancer patients with negative axillary nodes at initial diagnosis.

Design:

To calculate pooled identification rate (IR) and false negative rate (FNR) of SLNB after NAC on breast cancer patients with initially negative axillary nodes by enrolling relevant studies and perform subgroup analysis by the type of tracer and the number of biopsied sentinel lymph nodes in average.

Data sources and methods:

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus databases from January 1, 2002, to March 1, 2022, were searched for studies. The QUADAS-2 tool and MINORS item were employed to evaluate the quality of the included studies. I2 and Q tests were used to evaluate the heterogeneity among the studies. Random-effects model and fixed-effects model were employed to calculate the pooled IR, FNR, and 95% confidence interval (CI). Publication bias was evaluated, and sensitivity analysis was performed. Subgroup analysis was performed according to the type of tracer (single/double) and the number of biopsied sentinel lymph nodes in average (⩽2/>2).

Results:

A total of 21 studies covering 1716 patients were enrolled in this study (IR = 93%, 95% CI = 90-96; FNR = 8%, 95% CI = 6-11).

Conclusion:

The SLNB after NAC can serve as a feasible and reliable approach in breast cancer patients with negative axillary lymph node. In our study, no significant impact of tracer was found on the IR and FNR of SLNB, and the number of biopsy nodes >2 leads to the decreased FNR of SLNB.
Analyzing Factors Affecting Farmers’ Safe Pesticide Handling Practices in Southwest of Ethiopia: Implications for Policy
Authors: Hussen Ahmed Hawi , Astatike Higemengist , Fekadu Samuel , Mekonen Seblework
Published: May 2024

Background:

Pesticides play a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity by controlling pests. However, inadequate pesticide handling practices have a considerable adverse impact on human health. Nevertheless, there is limited knowledge regarding the extent of safe pesticide handling practices, particularly in low-income settings like Ethiopia. Hence, this study seeks to evaluate the implementation of safe pesticide handling practices and identify the factors associated with the status of the handling practices in low-income settings in Ethiopia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was undertaken, involving 468 farmers randomly selected for participation. Data collection was carried out through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. The analysis aimed to assess the proportion of safe pesticide handling practices (SPHP) and investigate the factors associated with SPHP was done using binary logistic regression. Explanatory variables with a P-value <0.25 were included in the final analysis. The factors were determined based on adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, P-value <.05. Model fit was evaluated using the Hosmer and Lemeshow tests.

Results:

From the findings of our study, only 45.7% of farmers practiced SPHP, with factors such as education, experience, pesticide usage, and attitude toward safe practices influencing their practices. Farmers with education status primary and above were two times more likely to practice good handling of pesticides than those who didn’t attend formal education. Farmers with a maximum of 5 years of experience in vegetable farming were 2.4 times more likely to exhibit good handling practices compared to their counterparts. Furthermore, farmers with favorable attitudes toward pesticide handling were 4.2 times more likely to engage in good pesticide handling practices than those with unfavorable attitudes. Therefore, the agricultural sectors, health sectors, and farmer associations should focus on these factors in order to mitigate the health risks associated with poor pesticide handling.
The prevalence of comorbid mental health difficulties in young people with chronic skin conditions: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Flinn Clodagh , McInerney Amy , Nearchou Finiki
Published: May 2024

Chronic skin conditions can have psychosocial and somatic implications, influencing well-being and quality of life. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesise evidence on the prevalence of comorbid mental health difficulties in 0–25-year-olds with chronic skin conditions. A secondary aim included identifying factors associated with resilience. The narrative synthesis included 45 studies. Four meta-analyses were performed with moderate-high quality studies, one for each outcome: diagnosed mental disorders; mental health symptoms; suicidal behaviour; socio-emotional and behavioural difficulties. The pooled prevalence of diagnosed mental disorders was 1.2% (95% CI = 0.2–6.1); of mental health symptoms was 22.6% (95% CI = 18.9–26.7); of suicidal behaviour was 7.8% (95% CI = 1.4–3.1); of socio-emotional and behavioural difficulties was 20.9% (95% CI = 14.7–28.8). Findings demonstrate the pooled prevalence of comorbid mental health difficulties in youth with chronic skin conditions.
Insertional code-switching as interactional resource in Mandarin–English bilingual conversation
Authors: Wang Wei
Published: May 2024

Aims and Objectives:

This study investigates the interactional relevance of insertional code-switching, that is, insertion of other-language words/phrases, in Mandarin–English bilingual conversation. It focuses on a next speaker’s (dis)alignment with an insertion in an adjacency pair and its import to the ongoing interaction.

Methodology:

This study adopts the framework of conversation analysis, which seeks to describe the underlying organization of talk-in-interaction. It features analyses warranted by techniques and signals in conversation that are demonstrably relevant to conversation participants.

Data and Analysis:

The data come from CallFriend Mandarin Corpus. Speakers are native speakers of Mandarin Chinese who resided in the United States at the time of recording. First, all instances of insertional code-switching were extracted with the extended context, filtering out those not occurring in an adjacency pair. Next, sequential analysis was conducted to examine the interactional import of a next speaker’s alignment and disalignment, respectively, when insertional code-switching occurs in an adjacency pair.

Findings:

This study discovers that a next speaker’s alignment with an insertion is sequentially preferred over disalignment. When different language choice over the same word occurs, speakers orient to it as problematic and then repair it, such that, alignment is achieved. Disalignment is used to claim the current speaker’s more authoritative status in the matter concerned.

Originality:

A large bulk of literature on insertional code-switching has focused on its syntactic constraints and semantic conditions; its interactional functions in bilingual conversation have not received as much attention. This study reveals that insertional code-switching works as an extra resource for bilingual speakers to achieve interactional alignment.

Significance:

This study challenges the view that insertional code-switching is not sequentially implicative by showing that it does place sequential constraints on the next speaker. It further argues that such sequential implicativeness can be exploited to establish finely calibrated alignment and index epistemic status.
Screening for economic hardship at Child Health Care Centres: A qualitative study of stakeholders’ perceptions and experiences of the Healthier Wealthier Families model in Sweden
Authors: Johansson Nina , Warner Georgina , Avogadri Nils , Sarkadi Anna
Published: May 2024

Aims:

The Healthier Wealthier Families model uses the child healthcare services as an access point to screen and connect parents experiencing economic hardship to municipal Budget and Debt Counselling services. This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of the Healthier Wealthier Families model in a Swedish context.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with three stakeholder groups: eligible parents who declined ( n=10) and received ( n=9) financial counselling; nurses ( n=7); and financial counsellors ( n=5). The data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results:

The analysis resulted in three main themes conveying the stigma of talking about finance, the connection between economic situation and family wellbeing, and the nuts and bolts of providing preventive financial counselling.

Conclusions:

A working model aiming to ameliorate child poverty in a societal service context needs to address the preconceptions and perceived mandate and role of the professionals, the prevalence of financial stigma in society, especially in relation to being a ‘good’ parent, and the current preoccupations and perceived financial needs and hopes of the families served.
Serial killers and the production of the uncanny in digital participatory culture
Authors: Glitsos Laura , Deuze Mark
Published: May 2024

Many theorists have expounded on what serial killing says about the social in any given context and the ways in which serial killing and media are entangled, in particular, Mark Seltzer, Jon Stratton and Elliot Leyton. However, in this article, we ask, how is serial killer mythology developing in relation to participatory culture typical of our current digital environment? In scaffolding discourse analysis with theories from various literature, such as Judith Fathalla and Mark Deuze, what we find is that people’s lives as lived in media open up radically new spaces through which media publics consume, cultivate and perform knowledge about serial killers, enabling them to exercise a reconfigured sense of control over the ‘story’ of the serial killer as a myth and as a deviant Other that embodies an encounter with the uncanny.
From the political to the personal: Constructing politicians’ biographies in the Nick Robinson podcast ‘Political Thinking’
Authors: Modell Maxwell
Published: May 2024

Political podcasts have captured a global audience and emerged as an important innovation space in journalism. One of the most popular formats is the ‘extended interview podcast’. This study employs conversation analysis to examine how this format has been used to facilitate more personal and informal encounters between journalists and politicians who are usually associated with the accountability news interview. BBC Radio 4’s podcast ‘ Political Thinking with Nick Robinson’ is used as a case study. The analysis shows that Political Thinking provides a discursive context for politicians to construct and perform their personal identities, in contrast to their traditionally more formalised political performance as institutional representatives. The looser structure of the podcast, relative to the tightly scheduled news interview, affords Robinson the discursive space for more reflexive handling of politicians’ personal narratives. Talk is mutually co-operative and conversational. Similarly to the celebrity talk show Political Thinking has an experiential focus, oriented towards the narrative exploration of personal experience as a device to contextualise politicians’ careers and value systems. This is complemented with more playful sequences in which Robinson collaborates with politicians to curate their non-political identities and reveal details of their personality that may help the audience to see them in a new light. Through this process, politicians become personal storytellers, whose thoughts, emotions and non-political identities are brought to the fore above issues of policy and current affairs. In turn, Robinson allows politicians to bridge the gap between their institutional identities as politicians and their personal reflections as individuals.
An Emerging Transformative Learning Journey to Foster Sustainability Leadership in Professional Development Programs
Authors: Brooks Rachel E. , Brooks Ann K.
Published: May 2024

Despite growing global attention to the 2015 UN Sustainable Development Goals, we have made limited progress towards achieving them. This article describes an emerging Transformative Learning Journey for Sustainability Leadership being developed for professionals at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland. The purpose is to help participants achieve the individual transformations needed to enact sustainability-focused interventions in their communities and organizations. From a socio-material lens, we describe four phases of the emerging Learning Journey and identify how they are transformative. The Learning Journey includes spending time in nature, growing an understanding of climate justice, collaborating, and planning action. We draw on reflective data from participants, linking them to Hoggan’s (2016a) transformative learning outcomes and other relevant studies, the goal being to contribute to the world’s collective knowledge of how to facilitate development of the transformative skills identified by the United Nations, the European Commission, and the Inner Developmental Goals.
Mixed Methods Research for Social Betterment and a More Just World
Authors: Mertens Donna M.
Published: May 2024

Mixed methods researchers who make a commitment to use their work for social betterment take a stance that has implications for their designs. This article contributes to mixed methods by illustrating how designs informed by the transformative and Indigenous paradigms provide examples of both the value of pursuing this goal, as well as the challenges that mixed methods researchers face. Social betterment studies engage with marginalized and vulnerable populations, such as Indigenous nations, people with disabilities, women and girls, and sexual minorities. Insights from the transformative and Indigenous paradigms are provided and illustrated by mixed methods studies. Challenges are discussed along with resources that can help address these challenges.
Decolonizing Research Methodologies: Weaving a Third Space With Métissage and Duoethnography
Authors: Campbell-Chudoba Roberta
Published: May 2024

As a qualitative researcher whose interest lies in collaborative, emancipatory, and decolonizing practices, I have two purposes with this article. First, I explore the history, tenets, processes, and applications of two nascent research methodologies, duoethnography and métissage and put them up against each other to highlight similarities and contradistinctions. Secondly, I examine how these research methodologies naturally align with a relational, Indigenist orientation where the production of knowledge comes from within and between the researchers employing an ethical third space. Using a framework of four practices proposed by Thambinathan and Kinsella (2021), I analyze and illustrate how duoethnography and métissage can be used as decolonizing approaches, and then close the discussion with an invitation to take up these potentially transformational methodologies.
Investigation on the external characteristics of permanent magnet synchronous mechatronic-electro-hydraulic coupler
Authors: Zhang Lingfeng , Zhang Hongxin , Liu Baoquan , Zhang Zhen , Jiang Yiming
Published: May 2024

The efficient utilization of energy stands as a paramount priority on the international stage. Currently, there are various issues associated with the multi-power source couplers in automobiles. Addressing concerns related to the large size, poor reliability, low durability, and inefficient energy conversion of these couplers, a novel Permanent Magnet Synchronous Mechatronic-Electro-Hydraulic Coupler (MEHC) has been proposed. This system integrates a traditional permanent magnet synchronous machine with a swash plate axial piston pump/motor, enabling the mutual conversion of electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic energy. This paper primarily investigates the losses and efficiency of MEHC in both pure electric motor mode and electro-hydraulic coupling mode. Compared to our group’s previous Induction Asynchronous Mechatronic-Electro-Hydraulic Coupler (IA-MEHC), MEHC demonstrates lower losses and higher torque. Additionally, the paper also computes the electrical power external characteristics and comprehensive power external characteristics of the MEHC in pure electric motor mode. In the calculations within this paper, electric power is the primary power source, and in the electro-hydraulic coupling mode, hydraulics only provide auxiliary assistance. The research outlined in this paper lays a robust groundwork for future advancements and innovations in MEHC technology. With the capacity to bolster its performance, efficiency, and reliability, this groundwork holds the promise of accelerating the rapid development and widespread adoption of MEHC in automotive applications.
Security governance, harms and resistance: Recalibrating security and redefining incivility through legitimacy concerns
Authors: Peršak Nina , Di Ronco Anna
Published: May 2024

Examining the harmful effects of some existing governance approaches to urban space and various types of resistance to them, we outline a new framework to develop and evaluate security approaches in the city – in particular, towards ‘incivilities’. This framework relies on the redefinition of security, which we extended far beyond the realm of crime to include social security and concerns around vulnerability, sustainability, inclusion and so on, and takes into account the critique of existing governance measures. Simultaneously, it relies on the rethinking of ‘incivilities’, which involves shifting the focus away from behaviour deemed ‘anti-social’ to the actions or inactions of those who decide what ‘anti-social’ is in the first place, and their harmful consequences. The framework we propose – that takes into account harms, people’s broader sensitivities around public space and pro-social alternatives to current security approaches – should hopefully contribute to a more just and legitimate urban security governance.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Experience at an Academic Medical Examiner’s Office
Authors: Prahlow Joseph A. , Jones Prentiss , Bailey Kristi , Grande Abigail , Obead Asmaa , Pink Christine , Douglas Elizabeth , Shattuck Brandy , Fisher-Hubbard Amanda , Brown Theodore , deJong Joyce L.
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in a great deal of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Since most deaths related to COVID-19 are currently considered natural, and they tend to occur following a clinically recognized illness, many medical examiner/coroner offices within the United States do not take jurisdiction over the majority of COVID-19 deaths.

Methods:

In this review, we present the experience of a medium-sized medical examiner’s office affiliated with an academic medical school institution, over the first 15 months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results:

Compared to a 15-month period that immediately preceded the pandemic, our office experienced a significant increase in the total number of reported deaths, scene investigations, full autopsies, natural deaths, accidents, homicides, and drug-related deaths, but a decrease in the number of suicides. Overall, our office performed 5 autopsies during the study period where COVID-19 was considered the primary cause of death, 4 cases where COVID-19 was considered a contributory cause of death, and 28 cases where COVID-19 testing was positive, but COVID-19 was not contributory to death.

Discussion:

The COVID-19 pandemic was accompanied by a sizeable increase in work volume within our academic medical examiner’s office. Although this increased workload was not related to a large number of COVID-19-related deaths investigated by the office, there were numerous areas of increased workload that were likely secondarily related to the conditions associated with the pandemic.
All the city’s a stage: Greenpeace, #VWDarkside, and the popular appeals of urban climate activism
Authors: Moscato Derek
Published: May 2024

Through the lens of Kenneth Burke’s dramatistic pentad, this study examines the role of the city as a consequential forum for environmental activists—providing efficient and dynamic platforms of expression and contestation and opportunities for public communication outreach. Building on the view of urbanist Jane Jacobs that cities only reach their democratic potential when they are inclusive, responsive, and created by all, the metropolis is explored in terms of both its viability and untapped potential for activist communicators. This study also builds upon previous research asserting the city as both a site of continuous transformation and communication conduit for social change. In this context, cities provide a key platform for public communication practitioners and audiences, as well as for exploring environmental advocacy as a socio-cultural practice. Such a platform also aligns with the argument for the role of public relations as a vehicle for relationship cultivation, organizational participation in public life, and democratic dialogue. This study ultimately establishes a popular environmental dramatism that forges the geography of public relations to material and symbolic ecological change.
A rare case of circumferential osteoinvasive subungual melanoma: A case report
Authors: Kokikian Nelly , Baltayan Armine , Nouvong Aksone
Published: May 2024

Subungual melanoma is a rarer form of melanoma encountered in clinical practice that often has a poor prognosis because it presents with advanced disease. We report a case of a 46-year-old male with a circumferential osteoinvasive melanoma that invaded the superior and lateral aspects of the periosteum of the distal phalanx. We discuss pathologic findings and common physical exam findings to facilitate earlier diagnosis of subungual melanoma.
Factors Associated with Healthcare Utilization Among Adults in Saudi Arabia During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gaffar Balgis , Quadri Mir Faeq Ali , Folayan Morenike Oluwatoyin , Brown Brandon , El Tantawi Maha , Al-Khanati Nuraldeen Maher , Okeibunor Joseph Chukwudi , Nzimande Ntombifuthi P. , Virtanen Jorma I. , Ellakany Passent , Aly Nourhan M. , Ishabiyi Anthonia Omotola , Lawal Folake Barakat , Yousaf Muhammad Abrar , Jafer Mohammed , Ezechi Oliver , Ara Eshrat , Ayanore Martin Amogri , Idigbe Ifeoma , Abeldaño Giuliana Florencia , Khan Abeedha Tu-Allah , Popoola Bamidele Olubukola , Uzochukwu Benjamin , Abeldaño Zuñiga Roberto Ariel , Ndembi Nicaise , Khalid Zumama , Lusher Joanne , Nguyen Annie Lu
Published: May 2024

To investigate factors associated with healthcare utilization by adults in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services utilization, we conducted logistic regressions to determine the relationship between predisposing factors (age, gender, education, employment status), need factors (critical medical needs), and enabling factors (insurance coverage, financial loss) on healthcare utilization (challenges accessing medical health care needs, resorting to alternative care, unable to attend medical appointments) as the main outcome. Data of 958 adults residing in KSA were extracted. Financial loss increased the odds of challenges in accessing healthcare (OR: 1.73) and lowered the odds of resorting to alternative medical care (OR: 0.63) and inability to attend healthcare appointments (OR: 0.55). Public insurance increased the odds of skipping healthcare appointments (OR: 1.62). Need factors were associated with lower odds of facing challenges accessing healthcare (OR: 0.37), higher odds of resorting to alternative medical care (OR: 5.65), and failure to attend healthcare appointments (OR: 1.92) respectively. Factors known to enable healthcare utilization should be continuously evaluated during emergency situations. Alternative routes of health provision, along with proper health education, should be accessible to all socioeconomic groups.
Are China’s Renewable Energy Products Competitive in the Context of RCEP?
Authors: Guo Qing , Wen Jingyao
Published: May 2024

In recent years, in order to address climate change and energy depletion, countries around the world have been constantly promoting energy transformation and structural upgrading. The effectiveness of RCEP has broadened the international east Asian new energy market. The development of renewable energy trade in the context of RCEP has attracted significant economic, environmental, and technical attention. Based on the background of RCEP in this study, the constant market share (CMS) model and the weighted dominant comparative advantage (IRCA) index are used to assess the export competitiveness of renewable energy products from 2006 to 2021. The data in this paper were obtained from the UN comtrade database according to the categorical statistics of HS codes. The results show that: (1) the overall competitiveness of Chinese renewable energy products shows an upward trend; (2) the comparative advantages of Chinese renewable energy products are strong, with some differences among different industries; (3) the growth effect is the main reason for the fluctuation of Chinese renewable energy product exports; and (4) the signing of RCEP has injected new vitality into Chinese renewable energy trade. Finally, based on the research conclusions, the paper puts forward corresponding policy proposal.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Study on Eileen Chang Using CiteSpace
Authors: Yuan Ruikai , Vengadasamy Ravichandran , Zheng Yu
Published: May 2024

In the context of literary studies undergoing development, the works of Eileen Chang, a seminal Chinese-American writer, have garnered significant scholarly attention, reflecting her profound impact on modern Chinese literature. The study analyzed publication trends, high-frequency keywords, and the scholarly network, providing insights into the research status of Eileen Chang’s works. The analysis revealed a disparity between Chinese and overseas research focuses, with Chinese scholars predominantly exploring themes such as Eileen Chang’s works, feminist consciousness, and literary figures related to her. Overseas scholars, on the other hand, exhibit a broader research scope encompassing topics like translation, modern Chinese literature, and cultural aspects. The analysis highlighted the prominent scholars in the field and their publication patterns, indicating the emergence of new scholars in recent years. Based on the findings, this study proposed suggestions for future researchers, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, international collaboration, comparative studies, utilization of digital humanities, and exploration of underrepresented topics.
Processing Mandarin Chinese Compound Words by Native Speakers and Second Language Learners: Word Frequency, Semantic Transparency, and Word Structure
Authors: Hao Yuxin , Wu Chenxi , Duan Xun
Published: May 2024

This study examined how Chinese native speakers (NSs) and second language (L2) learners process compound words. The findings showed that they used the hybrid model of coexistence for whole word and morphemes; and were influenced by word frequency, semantic transparency, and word structure. The results revealed that two groups of participants used hybrid representation when identifying high-frequency words and whole-word representation when identifying low-frequency words. Besides, semantic transparency might impact word structure awareness, and subject-predicate words were the most difficult to process. The research also showed that L2 learners’ word frequency effect was more robust than NSs’; morpheme location information might affect NSs, but L2 learners could not process it. There was variation in NSs’ speed in recognizing transparent and obscure words, but there was no difference among L2 learners. Besides, L2 learners’ word recognition speed could not reach the levels of NSs.
Teacher-Students Collaboration: Using Guided-Writing Instruction to Assist Learners with Writing Difficulties and Low Motivation to Write
Authors: Wendimu Selamawit Getachew , Gebremariam Hailay Tesfay
Published: May 2024

Despite the complex nature of writing, many students are hesitant to tackle difficult subjects. To help those facing writing difficulties and increase their motivation, this study examines the effect of teacher-student collaboration through guided-writing instruction. A two-group quasi-experimental design was used with a pre-treatment-post-tests format. The participants in this study were 50 11th-grade students (aged 17–24; 28 male and 22 female) from Data Sana Memorial School in Wolaita Sodo City, South Ethiopia. Writing skill tests and questionnaires about writing motivation were used to collect data, which was then analyzed using independent smples t-test analysis to determine the effectiveness of guided-writing on students’ writing improvement and motivation. Although the pre-test results did not show a significant difference between the mean scores of the control and experimental groups, the post-test results of the writing skill tests showed a statistically significant difference between the means of the experimental and control groups. Additionally, the results of the writing motivation questionnaires revealed that the mean score of the experimental group increased significantly in the post-test compared to the pre-test. These findings demonstrate the usefulness of guided-writing instruction in assisting students with writing difficulties and motivation. In conclusion, the findings have implications for teaching writing through guided-writing instruction and it is recommended to help students struggling with writing and a lack of motivation. Moreover, further research into writing instruction through guided-writing in various ecological aspects and grade levels is required.
Advancing Inclusivity in HRM: A Proposition by a Disability Rights Advocate
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Rizwan , Muhammad Khalid Bin
Published: May 2024

This interview features a prominent disability rights advocate who has been instrumental in shaping the discourse on inclusive human resource management (HRM) in Pakistan. With over two decades of experience in the Disability Movement and a personal background of physical disability, the interviewee offers valuable insights into advancing disability inclusion through HRM policies and practices in the region. The interview delves into the advocate’s perspectives on various issues, including raising organisational awareness, recruiting and retaining employees with disabilities, identifying policy gaps, fostering effective collaborations between HR professionals and disability networks, and introducing innovations in workplace accommodations. It underscores the pressing need for tailored training, improved legal compliance, proactive accessibility audits and continuous engagement with the disability community to foster cultural shifts within organisations. The advocate substantiates her recommendations with illustrations of disability inclusion initiatives, such as internship programmes and partnerships with disabled people’s organisations, that serve as exemplary models. The interview provides a unique perspective on how South Asian and Pakistani organisations can harness the lived experiences and expertise of advocates to advance towards equitable, rights-based HRM that empowers employees with disabilities. The discussion provides valuable perspectives and insights for translating disability rights commitments into tangible strategies for HR practitioners.
Rate of Revision Surgery and Associated Risk Factors After Primary Arthroscopic ACL Repair With Additional Suture Augmentation
Authors: Schneider Kristian Nikolaus , Theil Christoph , Gosheger Georg , Weller Jan Frederic , Goth Anna , Ahlbaeumer Georg
Published: May 2024

Background:

Recent studies have suggested promising patient-reported outcomes after primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair with additional suture augmentation (SA).

Purpose:

To evaluate the risk for revision surgery and identify patient- and injury-related risk factors after ACL repair with SA in a large patient cohort subject to strict patient selection.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Included were 86 patients (61 female; 93% follow-up rate) who underwent arthroscopic ACL repair with SA between January 2017 and March 2019 by a single surgeon and had a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Patients were selected for surgery with regard to time to surgery (preferably on the day of injury), tear pattern (limited to Sherman types 1 and 2), and tissue quality (intact synovial coverage). Postoperatively, the patients who needed revision surgery were identified and compared with patients who did not undergo revision surgery, using the Mann-Whitney U test for nonparametric analysis and the Student t test for parametric analysis. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to investigate the survival rate of the ACL repair.

Results:

A total of 9 patients (10%; median age, 48 years; interquartile range [IQR], 27-50 years) underwent revision surgery at 12 months postoperatively (IQR, 8-25 months). The median follow-up of patients without revision surgery was 35 months (IQR, 33-44 months). The revision-free survival rate was 97% (95% CI, 93%-100%) after 1 year, 93% (95% CI, 88%-98%) after 2 years, and 90% (95% CI, 83%-97%) after 4 years. Patient-related factors—such as sex ( P = .98), age at surgery ( P = .459), body mass index ( P = .352), and preinjury level of sports ( P = .53)—had no significant impact on the survival rate of the ACL repair. Injury-related factors—such as concomitant injuries of the medial ( P = .860) and lateral menisci ( P = .414) and the medial ( P = .801) and lateral collateral ligaments ( P = .534) or same-day surgery compared with a delay of surgery of up to 18 days ( P = .277)—had no significant impact on the survival rate of the ACL repair.

Conclusion:

The revision rate of primary ACL repair with SA at a 2-year follow-up was 10%. Patient- and injury-related factors were not associated with the survival rate of the ACL repair.
From Diverse Perspectives to Unified Agreements: Intercultural Negotiation Dynamics in the Digital Age
Authors: Čuhlová Renata , Demel Jaroslav
Published: May 2024

This article aims to investigate the role of cultural differences within the current international business environment affected by technological advances, concentrating on the negotiation procedure and its outcome. The conclusion is based on the analysis of email interviews between top negotiators from the Czech Republic with long-term professional experience worldwide. The authors suggest considering a salesperson culture as a dynamic framework of top-down–bottom-up processes across cultural levels. Research indicates that, despite a reduction in costs thanks to the migration of negotiation meetings to online platforms, negotiators still prefer face-to-face meetings as the primary mode when managing intercultural nuances.
Communicating Clear Guidance: Advice for Generative AI Policy Development in Higher Education
Authors: Moore Sarah , Lookadoo Kathryn
Published: May 2024

This article presents the ongoing conversation about generative AI guidance and policy in higher education. The article examines syllabus policies, including analyzing sentiment, emotion, and common themes in GenAI policies. Findings show that policies should be audience-focused, clearly written, and grounded in strategies to promote ethical AI use in academia and the workforce. Practical tips for policy writing and sample policies are provided.
Dialogues on the Impossible: On Defining the ‘Literary’ in Pedagogy
Authors: Madhu Uma
Published: May 2024

This article discusses the relevance and construction of the concept of ‘literariness’ within pedagogy for an effective engagement with works of literature and literary theory. By juxtaposing Mikhail Bakhtin’s dialogic mode of understanding, with Bhartrhari’s doctrine of the dhvani and the sphota, this article attempts to draw upon these theories as resources through which ‘totalizing’ concepts could be effectively communicated. Through an analysis of Bhartrhari’s idea of meaning-making interpreted through the lens of Bakhtin’s creative understanding, this article attempts to make a case for considering the ‘literary’ as an underlying language principle within all works of literature. This article, while limited to a purely theoretical endeavour, aims to reframe some of our assumptions on the communication of wide-reaching, fundamental concepts within a given field.
Workplace Violence Against Healthcare Workers: A Literature Review
Authors: Eshah Nidal , Al Jabri Osama Jamal , Aljboor Mahmoud Ali , Abdalrahim Asem , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Alkhawaldeh Abdullah , Saifan Ahmad , Ayed Ahmad , Rayan Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Violence against healthcare workers in the workplace is a complex issue affecting various healthcare professionals. Workplace violence (WPV) poses significant occupational hazards to healthcare employees.

Objectives

To identify the causes, types, and perpetrators of WPV and explore the effects of violence on healthcare workers’ well-being.

Methods

This literature review analyzes 15 selected research papers published between 2015 and 2020, focusing on WPV against healthcare workers, and gathers insights from healthcare professionals with prior experience of WPV. Through an analysis of the selected research papers, this study provides a comprehensive overview with WPV in the healthcare setting. The respondents in the included studies were healthcare professionals who had encountered WPV in their work.

Results

While nurses remain particularly vulnerable to violence due to their constant patient interaction, this study reveals that verbal violence is the most prevalent type, significantly impacting the well-being of healthcare workers as a whole. The identified causes of WPV include long waiting times, understaffing, miscommunication, inadequate security measures, high patient expectations, and overcrowding. Respondents emphasized the importance of education, security enhancements, and administrative support to address or prevent WPV.

Conclusion

The findings strongly highlight the crucial role of administrative support in reducing the incidence of WPV. It is crucial to implement broader measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all healthcare workers.