bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periprocedural Edoxaban Management and Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Cardiovascular Procedures in the EMIT-AF/VTE Program
Authors: Unverdorben Martin , Colonna Paolo , Jin James , Köhler Sabine , Santamaria Amparo , Saxena Manish , Borrow Amanda , Chen Cathy , von Heymann Christian , Vanassche Thomas
Published: June 2024

Annually, 10% of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) or venous thromboembolism (VTE) treated with non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants undergo diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. This subanalysis of the multicenter, prospective, observational Edoxaban Management in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures real-world registry included patients in Europe and Asia with AF or VTE who underwent transcatheter cardiovascular (CV) procedures. Edoxaban interruption and clinical outcomes were assessed for all arterial or venous access procedures and stratified by bleeding risk. Overall, 2695 procedures were reported; 755 (28.0%) were transcatheter CV procedures, of which 373 (49.4%) were arterial access and 382 (50.6%) were venous access procedures. Patients with arterial versus venous access procedures had significantly higher bleeding and stroke and thromboembolism risk scores ( P < 0.0001 for both) and underwent procedures that were more frequently classified as having a higher European Heart Rhythm Association bleeding risk. Edoxaban was interrupted in 59.5% (222) arterial versus 42.4% (162) venous access procedures, mostly either only preprocedurally or both pre- and postprocedurally. The combined incidence of clinically relevant ischemic or bleeding event rates and deaths was low (0.8 events/100 procedures). This subanalysis showed that while edoxaban was interrupted in approximately half of all interventions, ischemic events and major bleeding were low, suggesting transcatheter CV procedures can be performed safely in high-risk patients with AF or VTE. Patient and procedural factors should be considered to personalize the decision of edoxaban management around the time of a transcatheter CV procedure.

Clinical trial registration number: NCT02950168, NCT02951039
An oversampling method based on Gaussian Mixture Model for multi-bolt looseness monitoring using Lamb waves`
Authors: Yang Jinsong , Hua Maosheng , Wang Tiantian , Xie Jingsong , He Jingjing
Published: June 2024

The imbalance in the number of healthy and faulty samples poses a significant hindrance to the successful implementation of multi-bolt looseness monitoring and fault classification in engineering applications. The Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) is widely used in addressing data imbalance issues. However, traditional SMOTE methods and their improvements have not taken into account the problem of sensor network signals with multiple paths. In this paper, an improved oversampling technique, namely Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM)-SMOTE, is introduced. The proposed SMOTE method is based on GMM and aims to solve the sample imbalance problem under different bolt states and different sensor paths in sensor networks. The GMM is utilized to cluster the minority classes in multi-bolt looseness data. The assignment of weights to different clusters is based on the clustering density function, which is subsequently followed by oversampling. The KL distance is utilized to screen the SMOTE sample data, which improves the quality of the data by achieving inter-class balance and intra-class balance. To verify the effectiveness of the method, a multi-bolt looseness monitoring procedure is implemented. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can improve the accuracy of diagnosing early-stage bolt looseness.
Does the scarcity marketing of tourism cultural and creative products trigger impulsive consumption?
Authors: Zeng Ai-Jing , Zhang Shu-Ning , Ruan Wen-Qi , Li Yong-Quan , Deng Fang
Published: June 2024

Based on the consumption impulse formation enactment (CIFE) model, this paper explores the role mechanism of tourism cultural and creative product scarcity on tourists’ impulsive consumption intention through experiments. The findings reveal that supply scarcity (vs. demand scarcity) is more likely to stimulate tourists’ impulsive consumption intention of tourism cultural and creative products. Moreover, perceived uniqueness and perceived value mediate that process. Furthermore, creative performance is an effective moderator, with tourists responding more enthusiastically to supply scarcity when creative performance is high and, conversely, responding more sensitively to demand scarcity. Our study highlights product scarcity on the controversy over the scarcity effect and contributes to creative marketing in tourism cultural and creative products.
Saved by a brand: An odyssey of personal deliverance
Authors: Fuschillo Gregorio , Cayla Julien , Cova Bernard
Published: June 2024

It remains hard to understand the process whereby people claim to have been saved by a brand. How can a commercial entity take on religious meanings like salvation? Our research addresses this mystery by diving deep into the lives of individual brand fans. We describe their journey of salvation by a brand in detail, from the key moment of brand revelation, when the brand appears as savior, to the ways in which the brand delivers them from their sufferings. For these fans, the brand becomes a companion that helps them significantly improve their existence. Our findings demonstrate that the religious dimension of brands is not limited to brand communities and their rituals. This dimension also emerges through the efforts of individual consumers who create their own brand religions and find salvation in the process. Religions do not have a monopoly on salvation; brands can be saviors too.
Home literacy environment, digital media and vocabulary development in preschool children
Authors: Sundqvist Annette , Majerle Nikola , Heimann Mikael , Koch Felix-Sebastian
Published: June 2024

A child’s vocabulary ability may be influenced by many different factors in their home environment. The present study focused on supportive aspects in home environments and the relation to children’s vocabulary size through an online study where 166 parents of children aged 47.63 months (range 33.7–59.9 months) responded. Children’s home literacy environments were positively associated with children’s vocabulary size. Aspects of the home environment such as the parents engaging in teaching colors, and letters and talking about daily activities showed a positive association with vocabulary size. Print book reading was important, but the number of books the parents read did not seem to be associated with vocabulary size, rather whether the parent was engaging in dialogical reading and discussing the books, explaining the content, and relating the content to the life of the child mattered. Digital media (screen media and digital games) did not show a positive association with vocabulary, regardless of content or parents’ joint media engagement. Watching screen media showed a negative association with developing vocabulary. This association was, however, ameliorated when positive influences and activities in the home literacy environment were present.
Microstructure evolution, wear and corrosion behaviour of (Nb, V)C-reinforced Fe-based composite coatings by laser cladding
Authors: Wang T , Zhang HF , Wang R , Wu CL , Zhang S , Zhang CH , Liang XD
Published: June 2024

Five Fe-based composite coatings with different weight ratios of Nb were prepared by laser cladding on 0Cr13Ni5Mo substrate. As the Nb content imposes, the NbC content gradually increases; the microstructure was refined; and the NbC morphology changed from quadrangle carbides to petaloid and papilionaceous carbides. Meanwhile, the microhardness and wear resistance of the composite coating gradually improve. The S3 coating exhibited a high microhardness of approximately 610 ± 12.2 HV and an excellent wear resistance. The S3 coating showed the highest corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt-% NaCl solution with Ecorr and Icorr of −179.3 mV and 9.258 × 10−8 A/cm2, respectively. The improvement in the corrosion resistance could be attributed to the fact that the forming NbC would consume amounts of C in the matrix; thus, the Cr atoms were released from its carbide state, and then dissolved in the matrix.
Covered Endovascular Reconstruction of the Iliac Artery Bifurcation (CERIB)
Authors: Keschenau Paula Rosalie , Stark Mirja , Weiss Benjamin , Palacios Daniel , Kalder Johannes
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to present the covered endovascular reconstruction of the iliac artery bifurcation (CERIB) technique as a revascularization option for aorto-iliac occlusive disease (AIOD) involving the iliac artery bifurcation.

Methods:

This was a retrospective single-center study including all patients undergoing a CERIB procedure from January 2021 until December 2022. Covered endovascular reconstruction of the iliac artery bifurcation procedures were performed percutaneously with bilateral femoral access, excepting cases where simultaneous open femoral artery reconstruction was required due to the extension of peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Standard patient, procedural, and follow-up (FU) data including survival and arterial reinterventions were gathered and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 13 patients were included (11/13 male, median age=70 [60-76] years). Additional open and/or endovascular procedures included endarterectomy of the femoral bifurcation (n=6), rotational atherectomy (n=2), and 1 axillary artery cutdown for upper limb access (n=1). Median operating time was 2.9 hours (1.5-4.9 hours); median radiation duration and dose were 28.4 (14.3-63.3 minutes) and 4090.6 (384.4-9430.1 cGray/cm2), respectively. The stent grafts used for CERIB were BeGraft peripheral n=31, BeGraft Aortic n=4 and BeGraft peripheral plus n=1 (Bentley InnoMed GmbH, Hechingen, Germany). In 2 patients with prior stenting of the common iliac artery (CIA), only the internal and external iliac arteries (IIA and EIA) were treated in this study, and in 2 cases, additional uncovered stents were required for relining. Technical success was 100%. During a midterm FU (median 18 [4-31] months), 2 patients died from cardiovascular reasons and 1 patient with prior iliac stenting required reinterventions for recurring occlusion.

Conclusion:

Covered endovascular reconstruction of the iliac artery bifurcation is a straightforward option for treating AIOD involving the iliac artery bifurcation that allows preservation of internal iliac artery perfusion and shows good early and midterm results. Prior iliac artery stenting may be a risk factor for early occlusion after CERIB.

Clinical impact

Aorto-iliac occlusive disease with involvement of the internal iliac artery is encountered regularly in vascular surgical practice, but the internal iliac artery is often not included in the revascularization strategy. The present article will increase the awareness for the relevance of including the internal iliac artery in revascularization strategies and presents CERIB as another method to be added to the armamentarium of (endo-)vascular surgeons and interventionalists.
The Ethics of Using Artificial Intelligence in Qualitative Research
Authors: Marshall David T. , Naff David B.
Published: June 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other large language models are rapidly infiltrating the world of education and educational research. These new technological developments raise questions about use and ethics throughout the world of educational research, particularly for qualitative methods given the philosophical and structural foundations of its associated designs. This paper seeks to interrogate the perceived ethics around the use of AI in qualitative research and draws on survey data from qualitative researchers ( n = 101) collected from April-May 2023. Findings indicate that researchers were more apt to embrace the use of AI for transcription purposes, and to a lesser extent for preliminary coding. Researchers from high research productivity (R1) universities were generally less accepting of AI's use in the research process than other researchers.
Endovascular and medical management strategies for carotid-cavernous fistulas: A safety and efficacy analysis
Authors: Vranic Justin E. , Regenhardt Robert W. , Awad Amine , Doron Omer , Rabinov James
Published: June 2024

Background

Carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) are complex arteriovenous shunting lesions of the cavernous sinus with diverse clinical presentations. This study aimed to analyze clinical outcomes and differentiate patients treated with conservative observation versus those needing endovascular intervention.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 84 patients with angiographically confirmed CCF was conducted from 2000 to 2022. Endovascular treatment decisions were made at the discretion of neurointerventionalists. Clinical and angiographic data were collected, including Barrow CCF classification and treatment outcomes.

Results

Patients managed conservatively ( n = 17) had longer symptom duration (165 vs 42 days) and more indirect CCF (100% vs 68%) compared to those treated with endovascular embolization ( n = 67). High-risk clinical symptoms, including proptosis, diplopia, decreased visual acuity, and chemosis, were more common in the embolization group. Cortical venous reflux and ophthalmic venous reflux were more prevalent in the embolization group (39% and 91%, respectively). Overall, 31% of embolized CCFs required retreatment, mainly Barrow type D lesions (65%). Transvenous coil embolization was the primary technique used (78%), followed by feeder artery embolization (16%), and internal carotid artery flow diversion (8%).

Conclusion

In selected CCF patients without high-risk symptoms or angiographic features, conservative observation is a safe and effective alternative to endovascular embolization. High-risk symptoms and angiographic features favor endovascular intervention. Complications were rare, and most were transient, emphasizing the safety of endovascular management. Longitudinal angiographic and ophthalmologic surveillance is essential for monitoring fistula persistence or recurrence.
Rapid assembly bolt connection design method for TBM disc cutter box based on AHP
Authors: Sun Chunya , Zhao Xuan , Xiao Yanqiu , Cui Guangzhen , Jia Lianhui , Wu Shengquan , Zhang Wei , Shang Baoping
Published: June 2024

With the TBM disc cutter box as the subject of investigation, this study addresses the intricate and labor-intensive nature of the assembly process in TBM disc cutter box welding assembly. In order to expedite the assembly of the cutter-head and disc cutter box, an alternative approach utilizing combined bolt connections is implemented in place of welding assembly. Therefore, this article proposes a TBM disc cutter combination bolt connection design method based on AHP. Initially, a hierarchical analysis model is constructed, taking into account the actual conditions of the TBM disc cutter box combined bolt connections. Subsequently, from the array of factors influencing bolted connection performance, five experimental variables were chosen, and an orthogonal experimental layout was devised to examine the stress dispersion in the TBM disc cutter box under conditions of bolted assembly, employing finite element analysis. By conducting extreme difference analysis, the study examined the effects of each experimental factor on the bolt connection performance, and determined the order of importance of each factor more objectively. Thus, the comprehensive weights of each factor were calculated, and the optimal solution of the bolt connection scheme was selected by synthesizing the effects of multiple factors.
Youth sport coaches' perceptions of participating in the Transformational Coaching Workshop – A qualitative evaluation
Authors: Erikstad Martin Kjeøen , Høigaard Rune , Côté Jean , Haugen Tommy
Published: June 2024

Transformational leadership in sports is generally associated with positive athlete outcomes. The Transformational Coaching Workshop was developed as a person-oriented workshop to enhance youth sport experiences. However, evidence of participants’ perceptions of the workshop and how it may be improved is lacking. This study investigated coaches' perceptions of the Transformational Coaching Workshop, its outcomes and applications, and areas for improvement. Youth handball coaches were interviewed immediately (n = 10) and 6 months (n = 5) after participating in the Transformational Coaching Workshop, and the club's sporting director was interviewed 6 months following the workshop. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, and data were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis. Overall, the workshop was well received by the coaches, highlighting the importance of a coach development program on the interpersonal aspect of coaching, and pinpointing relevant and practical examples and interactive learning experiences as effective components of the workshop. Furthermore, the workshop made the coaches more confident in their approach to leadership and provided tools and ideas for implementing transformational leadership in their daily coaching practices. It was also perceived to lead to actual behaviour changes, including challenging the players to take more responsibilities and fostering more frequent informal interactions and counselling with them. However, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Transformational Coaching Workshop, additional follow-up activities such as seminars, colleague observations, and club involvement were recommended. In conclusion, this study contributes to the existing literature on the potential efficacy of the Transformational Coaching Workshop while identifying areas for further improvement.
Is choice of approach associated with risk of avascular necrosis in pediatric septic hip?
Authors: Nihalani Shrey , Cruz Francis , Hawkins Jacob K , Griswold Branum Gage , Mabry Scott E , McGwin Gerald , Gilbert Shawn R , Conklin Michael J
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

Septic arthritis of the hip in children and adolescents is a common condition requiring timely diagnosis and intervention. Surgical irrigation and debridement is typically performed through the anterior approach because of concerns about injury to the medial femoral circumflex artery leading to avascular necrosis. While there are multiple studies investigating the sequelae of anterior and medial approaches for reduction of developmental dislocation of the hip, none have compared these approaches for the pediatric septic hip. We hypothesize that there will be no significant difference in the rate of avascular necrosis when comparing the medial and anterior approaches to the septic hip in pediatric patients.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed of pediatric septic hips treated with irrigation and debridement through either a medial or anterior approach at a single institution over an 18-year period of time. The primary outcome measure was the development of avascular necrosis.

Results:

Thirteen of 164 patients (7.9%) developed avascular necrosis. Avascular necrosis was noted in 9 of 101 patients who had anterior approach and 4 of 63 patients who underwent medial approach (p = 0.76). The average age for patients developing avascular necrosis was 10.0 years old versus 6.8 years old in patients who did not develop avascular necrosis (p = 0.01). The average follow-up was 3.3 years in patients with avascular necrosis versus 1.5 years for patients who did not develop avascular necrosis (p = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Medial approach to the pediatric septic hip does not increase the rate of avascular necrosis compared to the anterior approach.

Level of evidence:

Retrospective comparison study, Level III
ChatGPT-3.5 passes Poland’s medical final examination—Is it possible for ChatGPT to become a doctor in Poland?
Authors: Suwała Szymon , Szulc Paulina , Guzowski Cezary , Kamińska Barbara , Dorobiała Jakub , Wojciechowska Karolina , Berska Maria , Kubicka Olga , Kosturkiewicz Oliwia , Kosztulska Bernadetta , Rajewska Alicja , Junik Roman
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

ChatGPT is an advanced chatbot based on Large Language Model that has the ability to answer questions. Undoubtedly, ChatGPT is capable of transforming communication, education, and customer support; however, can it play the role of a doctor? In Poland, prior to obtaining a medical diploma, candidates must successfully pass the Medical Final Examination.

Methods:

The purpose of this research was to determine how well ChatGPT performed on the Polish Medical Final Examination, which passing is required to become a doctor in Poland (an exam is considered passed if at least 56% of the tasks are answered correctly). A total of 2138 categorized Medical Final Examination questions (from 11 examination sessions held between 2013–2015 and 2021–2023) were presented to ChatGPT-3.5 from 19 to 26 May 2023. For further analysis, the questions were divided into quintiles based on difficulty and duration, as well as question types (simple A-type or complex K-type). The answers provided by ChatGPT were compared to the official answer key, reviewed for any changes resulting from the advancement of medical knowledge.

Results:

ChatGPT correctly answered 53.4%–64.9% of questions. In 8 out of 11 exam sessions, ChatGPT achieved the scores required to successfully pass the examination (60%). The correlation between the efficacy of artificial intelligence and the level of complexity, difficulty, and length of a question was found to be negative. AI outperformed humans in one category: psychiatry (77.18% vs. 70.25%, p = 0.081).

Conclusions:

The performance of artificial intelligence is deemed satisfactory; however, it is observed to be markedly inferior to that of human graduates in the majority of instances. Despite its potential utility in many medical areas, ChatGPT is constrained by its inherent limitations that prevent it from entirely supplanting human expertise and knowledge.
Risk Factors and Comorbidities Associated With Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Weidemann Helen , Yeh Kristen , Hunter Krystal , Roy Satyajeet
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Objectives:

Chronic hepatitis B virus infection (CHBVI) is a major public health problem affecting about 296 million people worldwide. HBV infects the liver, and when it becomes chronic, may cause cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of our study was to identify the risk factors and comorbid medical conditions that were associated with HCC in patients who had CHBVI.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective electronic medical record review of adult patients diagnosed with CHBVI, who presented to our primary care office between October 1, 2017 and October 21, 2022. Selected variables in patients with CHBVI with HCC (HCC group) were compared to those without HCC (NoHCC group).

Results:

Among 125 patients with CHBVI, 24% had HCC and 76% did not have HCC. There were higher frequencies of association of certain comorbidities in the HCC group compared to NoHCC group, such as anemia (63.3% vs 26.3%; P < .001), ascites (53.3% vs 1.1%; P < .001), portal hypertension (43.3% vs 0.0%; P < .001), chronic kidney disease (40.0% vs 13.7%; P = .002), and HCV coinfection (13.3% vs 7.4%; P < .001). The logistic regression model showed increased odds of HCC for each year of increase in age (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.01-1.11; P = .014), and increased odds in men (OR = 5.96, 95% CI = 1.71-20.73; P = .005). Although Asians represented the racial majority in both the groups, there was no significant difference in the race distribution between the two groups.

Conclusion:

In patients with CHBVI, increasing age and male sex are factors associated with increased odds of having HCC. Patients with CHBVI and HCC have higher frequencies of association of tobacco use, recreational drug use, anemia, ascites, portal hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and co-infection with HCV.
Subjective Well-Being and Burnout Among the Maternal and Child Health Workforce
Authors: Brown-Kaiser Carolyn , Vyas Amita
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

This study investigates burnout and subjective well-being among the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) workforce, considering recent events such as the Dobbs decision, the maternal mortality crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

An anonymous web-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 313 MCH professionals in the United States. Data were collected using validated measures, including the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ) short scale. Sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with burnout and subjective well-being were examined using univariate statistics and multivariable models.

Results:

Analysis revealed moderate levels of burnout among MCH professionals, particularly in emotional exhaustion. However, subjective well-being levels were relatively high. After controlling for covariates, significant associations were found between subjective well-being and burnout dimensions, as well as sociodemographic factors such as sex and race.

Conclusions:

The study’s findings indicate that higher subjective well-being is significantly associated with lower burnout, emotional exhaustion, and higher personal accomplishment. Variations in burnout and well-being are also influenced by sociodemographic factors such as age, sex, race, and occupation. Tailored interventions addressing the specific needs of MCH professionals are essential for building a resilient workforce. Organizational reforms and legislative measures are crucial for fostering supportive workplace environments and ensuring access to care and services amidst workforce challenges.
A Reconstruction Algorithm for Compression Perception Based on Local Learning Dictionary and Sparsity Iterative Update
Authors: Yu Haonan
Published: June 2024

The global sparse representation method based on compressed sensing fails to capture the local texture and detail structure of an image. To address this, a local dictionary learning method based on the wavelet domain is proposed. The wavelet high-frequency subband sub-block classification and local dictionary learning are implemented using the FCM clustering method and K-L method, respectively. At the reconstruction end, a compressed sampling Matching pursuit algorithm based on iterative update of sparsity is proposed. This adaptive iteration can effectively reconstruct the original image under unknown sparsity conditions. Simulation experiments show that compared to existing reconstruction methods, this approach has the advantages of simple computation, strong adaptive sparse representation ability for the original image, and superior reconstructed image performance.
Influence Mechanism of Content Marketing for Fashion Brand Culture on Consumers’ Purchase Intention Based on Information Adoption Theory
Authors: Chen Lihong , Gao Han , Memon Hafeezullah , Liu Chunhong , Yan Xinfeng , Li Ling
Published: June 2024

This research aims to explore the influencing mechanism of fashion brand cultural content marketing on consumers’ willingness to buy. The concept of content marketing for fashion brand culture was analyzed from the four dimensions of functional content, entertainment content, emotional content, and interactive content according to content marketing theory, and the influencing mechanism was studied based on the information adoption theory. Furthermore, it is verified for the mediating role of information content quality perception, information utility quality perception, information expression quality perception, information carrier quality perception, information adoption, and the moderating role of information involvement and brand trust. The structural equation model was developed and empirically tested the hypothesis. The results show that fashion brand culture content marketing can promote consumers’ willingness to buy. Consumers generate purchase intention by perceiving information content quality, information utility quality, information expression quality, information carrier quality, and information adoption. It was found that consumers with high involvement degrees are more likely to perceive information. Moreover, consumers with high brand trust will promote the effect of information adoption on consumers’ purchase intention. This research provides new ideas and references for the content marketing of fashion brand culture. It provides quantitative scientific data for fashion enterprises to grasp the direction of fashion brand culture content marketing and implement brand culture shaping and communication strategies.
How Pedagogical Modes Influence Students’ Employability: The Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Zhi-ting , Tian Li-jun
Published: June 2024

This study explores how two typical pedagogical modes, namely, problem-based and employment-based pedagogical mode, contribute to the employability of university and college students. Based on analysis of a total sample of 428 undergraduates from Chinese universities and colleges using structural equation modelling, the results show that students’ absorptive capacity was positively related to their employability. The employment-based pedagogical mode, considering the absorptive capacity as a partial mediator, was positively related to students’ employability. The problem-based pedagogical mode, considering the absorptive capacity as a complete mediator, was positively related to students’ employability. Absorptive capacity act as an important mediator variable when the employment-based and problem-based pedagogical mode influence students’ employability. Based on the findings, specific suggestions and managerial implications for higher education policy, manpower training, and future research are provided.
Does the Visa-Free Policy Promote Inbound Tourism? Evidence From China
Authors: Gu Jiafeng
Published: June 2024

A visa-free policy is a tool for attracting foreign tourists, but existing studies evaluating its effects do not consider spatial spillover. This study, therefore, examined the effects of visa policies on urban inbound tourism with spatial spillover. This study used the implementation of the 72-hr visa-free transit policy in China as a natural experiment and employed a spatial difference-in-differences approach. The results show that the implementation of the 72-hr visa-free transit policy had no significant effect on the number of foreign tourists, but can reduce the average length of stay for foreign tourists. It also shows that there is a significant spatial spillover effect on the flow of foreign tourists. The results indicate the importance of spatial spillover in the evaluation of the impact of visa policy on inbound tourism, providing empirical evidence for further improving visa-free policies and urban tourism development.
Do the Risk-averse Firms Confirm Enhanced Firm Value? Exploring the Managerial Ownership’s Moderating Effect
Authors: Hossain S. M. Khaled , Sarker Niluthpaul
Published: June 2024

The study aims to investigate the influence of corporate risk and the moderating effect of managerial ownership on the firm value of the Dhaka Stock Exchange listed manufacturing industries in Bangladesh. The study collected data from 144 manufacturing companies under ten industry categories from 2012–2021, where the total number of firm-year observations was 1,310. The study considers operational and liquidity risks to measure corporate risk. The study uses a two-stage-least square (2SLS) model estimation technique to run the multivariate analysis. The study found that firms’ operational risks, liquidity risks, and multiple effects of firms’ risk and managerial ownership significantly influence the firms’ value. It is also evidenced that firms’ size, age, shareholders’ influence, and GDP growth rate have a noteworthy positive influence on firm value. In contrast, no significant effect of the inflation rate on firm value was identified. The practical implications of the current study demonstrated that corporate risk management enhances firm value and must be invigorated for the interest of all stakeholders. Interestingly, there needs to be more research on identifying the impact of corporate risks on firm value from the perspective of manufacturing industries in Bangladesh. The current study is designed to reduce the research gap and enhance the literature. The research has several financial, legal, and social implications for policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders.
Scorpion-Induced Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Stinging Complication
Authors: Katwaroo Arun , Austin Kristianne , Bharat Alexandria , Chatoo Varun , Ramcharan Priya , Seecheran Valmiki , Seecheran Rajeev , Giddings Stanley , Seecheran Naveen Anand
Published: June 2024

The Tityus trinitatis, a black scorpion species endemic to the fauna of Trinidad, has been implicated in envenomation with devastating clinical sequelae such as acute pancreatitis and major adverse cardiovascular events. We present the first in-Caribbean case of a 59-year-old Caribbean South Asian male with human immunodeficiency virus who presented with a non-ST-segment-elevation acute coronary syndrome after being stung, which was managed with comprehensive, guideline-directed medical therapy. The clinician should be cognizant of scorpion-induced acute coronary syndrome (ACS) as a potential sequela of envenomation and its clinical management.
Outcomes of an All–Soft Tissue Fixation Technique for Reconstruction of the Medial Patellofemoral Complex Using Double-Bundle Quadriceps Tendon Autograft for Recurrent Patellar Dislocation in Skeletally Immature Patients
Authors: Zein Assem Mohamed Noureldin , Allam Ahmad Fouad AbdElbaki , Hassan Alaa Zenhom Mahmoud , Soliman Amr Mohamed , Mohamed Mohamed Mohamed Azmy
Published: June 2024

Background:

Patellar fracture, femoral physis injury, and recurrent instability are concerning complications in medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction (MPFLR) techniques for recurrent patellar dislocation in children and adolescents.

Purpose:

To evaluate the outcomes of an anatomic all–soft tissue fixation technique for reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral complex (MPFC) using a double-bundle quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft for recurrent patellar dislocation in skeletally immature patients.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This retrospective study involved 24 skeletally immature patients (24 knees; 16 women and 8 men; age range, 9.5-15 years) with recurrent patellar dislocation who underwent MPFC reconstruction using a double-bundle QT autograft between September 2018 and January 2021. Only soft tissue suture fixation was used on the femoral and patellar sides of the 2 bundles of the QT. Radiographs, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging were used to evaluate physeal status, lower limb alignment, patellar height and tilt, trochlear morphology, tibial tubercle-trochlear groove distance, and any associated knee pathology. Functional outcomes were assessed with the Kujala score, the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and the grading system of Insall et al.22

Results:

The mean follow-up time was 40 ± 9.6 months (range, 28-56 months). At the final follow-up, the Kujala and VAS pain scores showed a significant improvement versus preoperative scores ( P < .001), and the passive lateral patellar glide showed a significant reduction ( P < .001). All patients had negative apprehension and J signs. Of the 24 patients, 23 regained full range of motion, while 1 patient had a knee flexion deficit. The patellar tilt angle improved significantly at the final follow-up ( P < .001). There was no patellar fracture, femoral physis injury, or recurrence of patellar dislocation. According to the grading system of Insall et al, the results were excellent in 15 knees (62.5%), good in 8 knees (33.3%), fair in 1 knee (4.2%), and no knees showed poor results.

Conclusion:

Reconstruction of the MPFC using a double-bundle QT autograft with an all–soft tissue fixation technique was an effective method for treating patellar instability in skeletally immature patients.
Racist Agnotology: How Myth-Making about Institutions and Knowledge Production Contributes to Racialized Ignorance
Authors: Dasgupta Kushan , Iturriaga Nicole , Panofsky Aaron
Published: June 2024

Recently, scholars have revitalized the study of race by exploring how ignorance epistemologically fortifies racial domination. To articulate terms of analysis, much of this literature invokes two recurrent modes of racialized ignorance—racist essentialism and racialized nonknowing. We introduce a third mode—racist agnotology. With racist agnotology, actors perpetuate racialized ignorance by characterizing social constructionist accounts of race or anti-racist forms of knowledge as evidence of how knowledge-producing institutions—like science, academia, or other research-intensive fields—have become intellectually compromised or beholden to political principles that produce inaccurate knowledge about race. Whereas racist essentialism and racialized nonknowing produce ignorance by, respectively, distorting and occluding knowledge about racialized subjects, racist agnotology produces ignorance through stories and narratives about how such knowledge is prefigured by institutions. To demonstrate the usefulness of our contribution, and its relationship to extant literature, we empirically explore the intersection of race and health to illustrate how racialized ignorance thrives in patterned ways that reflect the logics of racist essentialism, racialized nonknowing, and racist agnotology. Our analysis reveals additional stakes and contours involved in the phenomenon of racialized ignorance. Importantly, it also reveals how many of the hermeneutic processes that have been revelatory for scholars and their study of race and ignorance—for example, demystification—can be used toward racist ends as well. In this regard, our contribution helps apprehend and theorize the social politics of knowledge involved in much of the contemporary, reactionary response to anti-racism or racial equity interventions.
Exploring Queer and Trans Students’ Mathematics Identity in Relation to STEM as a White Cisheteropatriarchal Space
Authors: Suárez Mario I. , Garvey Jason C. , Dolan C. V. , Shaheen Musbah
Published: June 2024

An emerging area of research on the diversification of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is that of queer and trans (QT) students who are interested in STEM education and disciplines. The purpose of our study was to identify differences in high school mathematics educational experiences by sexual orientation and gender identity. We used mathematics identity and Leyva’s STEM as a White cisheteropatriarchal space (WCHPS) as our theoretical frameworks to guide our study. Using data from Waves 1 and 2 of the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009, our exploratory analyses uncovered significant differences between QT and HC students’ mathematics identity. Regression results showed that ideological and relational dimensions of WCHPS in Grade 9 play a significant role in Grade 11 QT students’ mathematics identity. Given the exploratory approach for our study, we aim for our research to begin critical conversations in mathematics education concerning QT students to promote more enriching and welcoming learning environments.
Political Influencers and Their Social Media Audiences during the 2021 Arizona Audit
Authors: Rose Kyle , Rohlinger Deana A.
Published: June 2024

In this study, the authors explore the role of echo chambers in political polarization through a network and content analysis of 183 political influencer accounts and 3,000 audience accounts on Twitter (now X) around the Arizona audit of the 2020 U.S. presidential election, sampled between July 17 and August 5, 2021. The authors identify five distinct groups of influencers who shared followers, noting differences in the information they post and the followers they attract. The most ideologically diverse audiences belong to popular media organizations and reporters with localized expertise to Arizona, but partisan influencer groups and their audiences are not uniformly like-minded. Interestingly, conservative audiences are spread across multiple influencer groups varying in ideology, from liberal influencers and mainstream news outlets to conservative conspiracy theorists. The findings highlight the need to understand users’ motivations for seeking political information and suggest that the echo chamber issue may be overstated.
Global iPhone Local Labour: Exploring ICT Production, Labour and Cultural Production
Authors: Koushik Kailash
Published: June 2024

A theory of value pertinent to the contemporary iPhone era focuses on formal and informal labour circuits. This study extends this framework by examining a labour dispute in an iPhone factory near Bangalore, delving into its dissemination through media and the broader critical political economy surrounding the recent iPhone production in India. Furthermore, it incorporates a geographical perspective into the circuit framework to illustrate the movement of capital and labour in Bangalore, rekindling discussions on core–periphery dynamics in the context of capital and labour migration. Further, this research builds upon the typography of worker-generated content by illustrating a specific category of such content within the iPhone labour dispute. Utilising a critical political economy of media approach, this article aims to assess the broader implications of the updated framework and to open new avenues for research within the emerging field of information communication technologies, cultural production and labour.
The twin green and digital transition: High-level policy or science fiction?
Authors: Kovacic Zora , García Casañas Cristina , Argüelles Lucía , Yáñez Serrano Paloma , Ribera-Fumaz Ramon , Prause Louisa , March Hug
Published: June 2024

This paper contributes to the literature that critically engages with the so-called ‘twin green and digital transition’ by assessing the twin transition as a policy discourse. Our research question is: why and how is the twin transition legitimised and implemented in the European Union (EU) despite recognised pitfalls and uncertainties? The analysis is based on interpretative text analysis of high-level EU policy documents about the twin green and digital transition and of Member States’ resilience and recovery plans. The paper assesses the political and socio-economic context as a central factor that explains how the coupling of the green and the digital comes to be seen as desirable. Our results show that innovation associated with the digital imaginary is used to discursively reframe tensions between economic and sustainability policy aims as synergies. Legitimacy is derived not only from the promise of win-win ideas but also from the claimed ability of governing institutions to steer the twin transitions in the desired direction and avoid the recognised risks. With regard to implementation, the twin transition logic guided the allocation of funds by framing the need to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to accelerate the green and digital transitions. Hence, the digital imaginary merges environmental governance with the governance of innovation.
Geochemical characteristics and genesis of niobium–yttrium–fluorine granite pegmatite from Hmrat El Sorwhyia area, North Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Dessouky Osama K
Published: June 2024

The granite pegmatites of Hmrat El Sorwhyia, situated in the northern Egyptian-Nubian Shield, are predominantly hosted within the central areas of syenogranitic bodies, with limited occurrences noted along the marginal sites. The Hmrat El Sorwhyia granitic pegmatites represent a notable example of rare-metal mineralisation. This study introduces novel bulk- rock compositions, including major, trace, and rare earth elements, to investigate and constrain the origin and mechanisms influencing the genesis of the Hmrat El Sorwhyia granitic pegmatites and their rare-metal mineralisation. The studied pegmatites exhibit diverse morphologies, featuring lenticular pockets that contain the highest radioelement concentrations. The maximum (equivalent uranium) eU value is 760 ppm while the maximum (equivalent thorium) eTh value is 5552 ppm. These pegmatites have granitic composition and peraluminous characteristics, indicative of A-type affinity associated with post-collisional tectonic settings, and are categorised as niobium–yttrium–fluorine-type pegmatites. The formation of granite pegmatites through fractional crystallisation during the late-stage magmatic processes involved the concentration of U, Th, rare earth elements, Zr, Y, and Nb. This concentration facilitated the crystallisation of thorite, uranothorite, columbite, cerianite, and zircon. Additionally, assimilation-fractional crystallisation mechanisms led to the exchange of accessory phases between successive injections of pegmatite and the surrounding wallrock, resulting in variable mineral concentrations. These open-system processes were responsible for the development of these pegmatites.
Commonwealth, empire, and critique in South Asia
Authors: Black Shameem
Published: June 2024

This contribution explores the changing valences of the terms “Commonwealth” and “empire” through the lens of South Asian studies. I first investigate how the idea of the Commonwealth as a political genre for association and comparison was described by Sri Lankan, Pakistani, and Indian leaders. Taking foreign policy rhetoric as literary texts, I show how such political speech reveals competing and ambivalent meanings for the term in the region. I then draw on my experience as a co-editor of the journal South Asia: Journal of South Asian Studies to assess how the keywords “Commonwealth” and “empire” have been used in the pages of this journal. Through a mixture of large data patterns and close textual readings, I track when, where, how, and why these terms have mattered. I suggest that the turn captured by the renamed Literature, Critique, and Empire Today resonates with the organic ways that South Asian studies conceptualizes broader paradigms of transnational power and inequality that have shaped, and continue to inform, the region.
What’s in a name? Circles of attention and critical sensibilities
Authors: Donnell Alison
Published: June 2024

This article reflects on the history of The Journal of Commonwealth Literature as it connects to my personal engagement with the naming and re-naming of the field of Commonwealth / postcolonial / Empire studies across my academic career and contrasting institutional orientations. It considers the ways in which we can shape our field by aligning our critical attention with particular modes of scholarly engagement and sociopolitical commitments.