bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do LIS experts select more appropriate journals than journal finders? A study about LIS journals?
Authors: Vara Narjes , Rahimi Forough , Danesh Farshid
Published: December 2023

The primary aim of the present study is to provide a comparative-analytical analysis of the proposed results of the Manuscript Matcher with the responses of Library and Information Science experts to select the most appropriate journal for manuscript submission. This study is a kind of applied research conducted using the survey-analytical method with a comparative approach. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. The designed questionnaire was sent to 38 Library and Information Science (LIS) experts. Moreover, snowball sampling was employed to select a sample of 38 people. Twelve articles published in 12 WOSCC-indexed LIS journals were randomly selected for the Manuscript Matcher analysis. Abstracts and bibliographic data of the articles were sent to the experts. Moreover, the abstracts and titles of the 12 articles were entered in the manuscript matcher, and the results were analyzed and compared with those obtained from experts' opinions. Frequency distribution, percentage, chi-squared (χ2) test, and SPSS software (version 26) were employed for data analysis. More than 70% of the statistical population were assistant professors, 36.8% of experts had more than 40 published articles, 5% had received more than 300 citations, and 2.6% of LIS experts had an h-index above 20. Compared with 62% congruent responses of experts in the target journal selection, the Manuscript Matcher showed an inferior performance of 53% congruent responses. Furthermore, no significant relationship was found between the number of citations and the experts’ h-indexes with the rate of their congruencies in selecting the target journal. Experts were more successful than Manuscript Matcher in selecting the target journal. However, the Manuscript Matcher included comprehensive coverage of publications that can facilitate the selection of a journal for researchers due to the limited knowledge of all journal finders and the time-consuming distinct search processes.
Gendered Participation in Water Governance: Implications for Successful Communitybased Water Management and Women Empowerment
Authors: Naiga Resty , Ananga Erick O. , Kakumba Umar
Published: December 2023

This article sought to analyse the gender dimensions in communally managed water schemes in rural Uganda. Taking two rural villages as empirical referents, the study used multi-methods of data collection and a gender-based analysis to interrogate the challenges to equitable access and decision-making in rural-based water schemes. The analysis reveals that, despite the existing policy and legislative regime, access to water for women is severely constrained, and their level of decision-making in communally managed water schemes is remarkably low. The article holds that women’s participation is critical for the much-needed collective action towards community-based water governance, gender equity, and empowerment. Consequently, the barriers to sustainable water access and effective women’s participation can be addressed through significant investments in systematic water institutional reforms, targeted capacity-building initiatives, and plugging existing policy monitoring and implementation gaps at all levels. There is a need to address the policy reality gap regarding ownership of productive resources for women as a key strand towards addressing the equity challenges at different levels of water governance.
Patterns and Correlates of Living Arrangement Among the Elderly Population in India
Authors: Saha Brotin , Majumdar Sujoy Kumar
Published: December 2023

There have been debates about the actual prevalence of joint families in India and the changes in family structure. The popular notion also seems to be that the joint family system is on the decline, and increasingly families are becoming nuclear. This article investigates the living arrangement patterns of the older population and their association with different household background characteristics. We analyse data from the 71st round of the National Sample Survey, which provides a detailed understanding of the living arrangements among the elderly. It reinforces the conventional perception that co-residing with children is still the most preferred option, with about 75% of elderly parents of either sex opting for the same arrangement in the household. In terms of socio-economic and demographic characteristics, the ‘oldest-old’ categories of the elderly were most likely to prefer staying at home with their children. It was found that 80% of the elderly who were physically disabled or confined stayed with their children because they needed support physically. The major reason why the elderly prefer to live with their children was to receive economic support, with over 50% of the elderly across the nation were found to be fully financially dependent. Further, older women were more likely to desire co-residence as a means of receiving financial support since more than 70% of them were dependent monetarily.
The Impact of New Economic Reforms 1991 on Infrastructure Financing and Socio-economic Development of Kerala: An Appraisal after Three Decades
Authors: L. Rajeeve , Ganesh C.
Published: December 2023

India’s economic reforms of 1991 were a radical shift from the dysfunctional development strategy and a move away from the socialistic approach that the country had followed in the previous decades. The reform measures significantly changed lives by improving living conditions and alleviating poverty. The economic reforms of 1991 are considered a boon to the state of Kerala, which was facing severe constraints in sourcing finance for infrastructure projects. This research attempts to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI), infrastructure development and economic growth during the pre- and post-reforms period in the state. The study explores this issue using econometric analysis done on time-series data from 1970 to 2020. It analyses the impact of infrastructure financing on infrastructure development and economic growth at an aggregate level considering the state as a unit of analysis, using a multivariate method. The results of the research indicate that infrastructure development and economic growth have a positive moderate relationship with change in FDI. The findings may be used as reference material for further research on the impact of investments on economic development.
Medical Marijuana for Pain Management in Hospice Care as a Complementary Approach to Scheduled Opioids: A Single Arm Study
Authors: Zanker Theodore , Sacco Joseph , Prota James , Palma Michelle , Viola Lee Kyoung A , Wang Ruixiao Rachel , Liang Yixuan , Cunningham James , Mackary Mona , Ovchinnikova Polina
Published: December 2023

Background: Opioid therapy is critical for pain relief for most hospice patients but may be limited by adverse side effects. Combining medical cannabis with opioids may help mitigate adverse effects while maintaining effective pain relief. Aim: This single-arm study investigated the impact of combined medical cannabis/opioid therapy on pain relief, opioid dose, appetite, respiratory function, well-being, nausea, and adverse events in hospice inpatients. Design: Adult hospice inpatients using scheduled oral, parenteral, or transdermal opioids for pain were administered standardized oral medical cannabis, 40 mg CBD/1.5 mg THC or 80 mg CBD/3 mg THC. Descriptive statistics detailed demographic and clinical baseline characteristics, the Mann-Whitney test compared outcomes, and the longitudinal mixed effects regression model analyzed longitudinal effects of combined therapy. Setting/Participants: Sixty-six inpatients at The Connecticut Hospital, Inc. were assessed over 996 treatment days; average age was 68.2 ± 12.9 years, 90.9% were white. Cancer was the most common diagnosis. Results: The medical cannabis/opioid combination showed a significant longitudinal reduction in pain intensity ( P = .0029) and a non-significant trend toward lower opioid doses. Well-being, appetite, nausea, and respiratory function showed non-statistically significant changes. Three patients (4.5%) experienced minor, reversible adverse events potentially related to medical cannabis. No serious or life-threatening adverse events were seen. Conclusion: Combination medical cannabis/opioid therapy showed statistically significant pain relief and may have the potential for reducing opioid dose and mitigating opioid toxicity, offering a safe pain management alternative to opioids alone for patients in end-of-life care settings, and warrants further investigation in larger controlled trials.
Measuring Situational Cognitive Performance in the Wild: A Psychometric Evaluation of Three Brief Smartphone-Based Test Procedures
Authors: Perzl Johanna , Riedl Elisabeth Maria , Thomas Joachim
Published: December 2023

Mobile devices provide new opportunities to draw conclusions about cognitive performance in everyday situations. To gain insights into cognitive performance patterns in healthy adult populations, we adapted three established cognitive tests for smartphone use: the Digit Symbol Substitution Task (DSST), Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART), and Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT). To increase their feasibility for ambulatory assessment, we identified the minimum measurement durations that provide reliable and valid state measures of cognitive performance. Over 2 weeks, 46 participants performed each test once per day at random times, along with self-reports (e.g., on concentration, mood, and mental demands). The validity and reliability of change are promising for the 30-second PVT and 90-second DSST and SART. The DSST and SART provide fruitful outcomes for ambulatory field studies linked to mood, stress, and mental demands. We provide digital versions of the adapted DSST and SART online for free.
Examination of Acceptability, Feasibility, and Iatrogenic Effects of Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) of Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Kivelä L. M. M. , Fiß F. , van der Does W. , Antypa N.
Published: December 2023

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) can be used to examine the dynamics of suicidal ideation in daily life. While the general acceptability and feasibility of EMA in suicide research has been established, further examination of potential iatrogenic effects (i.e., negative reactivity) and identifying those more likely to react negatively is needed. Participants ( N = 82) with current suicidal ideation completed 21 days of EMA (4×/day) and filled in M = 78% ( Med = 84%) of the EMA. No positive or negative affect reactivity was observed in EMA ratings over the study period. Retrospectively, most participants rated their experience as positive (69%); 22% indicated mood worsening, and 18% suicidal ideation reactivity. Those with more borderline personality traits, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and higher depressive, anxiety, and suicidal ideation symptoms, were more likely to report iatrogenic effects. In conclusion, while high compliance rates and lack of affect reactivity during EMA indicate that EMA is well tolerated in suicide research, a minority of participants may report subjective mood effects in retrospect.
Use of Digital Health Resources by Sexual and Gender Minority Caregivers of Older Adults: Findings From the 2020 Caregiving in the U.S. Survey
Authors: Anderson Joel G. , Jabson Tree Jennifer M. , Flatt Jason D. , Smith Jennifer L. , Morgan Katherine H. , Beebe Lora H. , Rose Karen M.
Published: December 2023

We applied Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use to investigate the health needs and use of digital health resources among sexual and/or gender minority (SGM) caregivers. Data were from the Caregiving in the U.S. 2020 survey. Regression analyses were used to describe associations between predisposing, enabling, and need factors and usage of digital health resources. SGM caregivers provided more hours of care per week, reported higher levels of care intensity, and reported higher physical, emotional, and financial strain compared with non-SGM caregivers. Regression analyses indicated SGM status was a significant predictor of overall use of digital health resources. Younger caregivers, racial minority caregivers, those providing higher levels of care, and those reporting a poorer health status were more likely to use digital health resources. Digital health resources may be useful tools for SGM caregivers of older adults. More research is needed to investigate the reasons SGM caregivers use these resources.
Violence Against Women: Experiences of Eritrean Refugee Women in Britain
Authors: Tsegay Samson Maekele , Tecleberhan Shewit
Published: December 2023

There is a dearth of research on violence against women and girls among refugees, particularly in their host countries. Therefore, informed by a feminist theoretical framework and semistructured interviews, this study explores violence against women focusing on Eritrean refugee women's experiences in Britain. The findings suggest that Eritrean refugee women experience various types of violence, which have short- and long-term effects on their lives. Moreover, the data indicate that host and origin countries’ socioeconomic and cultural situations shape the experiences of refugee women. The research aims to better understand violence against women among refugees and thus improve refugee women's experiences.
Development of a Motivation Communication Training to Aid Diabetes-Specialist Podiatrists With Adherence Discussions
Authors: Hancox Jennie E. , Chaplin Wendy J. , Hilton Charlotte , Gray Katie , Game Fran , Vedhara Kavita
Published: December 2023

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) impact a substantial proportion of patients with diabetes, with high recurrence rates, severe complications, and significant financial burden to health care systems. Adherence to treatment advice (e.g., limiting weight-bearing activity) is low with patients reporting dissatisfaction with the way in which advice is communicated. This study aimed to address this problem via the systematic development of a motivation communication training program. The program was designed to support diabetes-specialist podiatrists in empowering patients to actively engage with treatment. The development process followed an intervention mapping approach. Needs assessment involved observations of 24 patient–practitioner consultations within a diabetes-specialist foot clinic. This informed specification of a theory of change (self-determination theory) and relevant evidence-based communication strategies (drawing from motivational interviewing). The training program was developed iteratively with changes made following feedback from five diabetic foot health care professionals. The resulting training program, consisting of six one-hour face-to-face sessions over an 8-week period, was delivered to a further six diabetes specialist podiatrists, with five participating in postprogram telephone interviews to assess acceptability. Deductive thematic analysis of interview data revealed positive aspects of the training (e.g., valuable and relevant content), ideas for improvement (e.g., online resources and context-specific video examples), the acceptability of motivation strategies, and challenges putting the strategies into practice (such as time constraints and breaking old communication habits). This study contributes to our understanding of integrating motivation principles into routine consultations and holds potential for enhancing adherence to treatment recommendations in patients living with diabetic foot ulcers.
Preloaded DMEK with endo-in technique: Standardizing and minimizing the learning curve over 5 years using 599 corneal tissues
Authors: Ruzza Alessandro , Grassetto Andrea , Favaro Elisa , Baruzzo Mattia , Romano Vito , Ponzin Diego , Ferrari Stefano , Parekh Mohit
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To report the outcomes of standardizing pre-loaded DMEK with endothelium-inwards and its associated learning curve.

Methods

Between 2017 and 2021, a total of 599 tissues were stripped using ‘trephine and strip’ method and loaded by folding the tissue as a taco-fold with endothelium-inwards. The folded tissues were pulled inside the funnel of a 2.2 mm IOL cartridge and stored for the desired number of days in organ culture media supplemented with dextran. Donor characteristics, endothelial cell loss (ECL) and mortality assessed by trypan blue positivity before and after stripping, and eventful cases during stripping/loading were recorded.

Results

The tissues found unsuitable for transplant after stripping (6.7%) were significantly higher compared with loading (0.67%). Central or peripheral tears, fragility of the tissues, and insufficient endothelial cell density mainly attributed towards the discard rate. Mean ECL from pre-stripping to post-stripping was 0.27% with endothelial cell mortality of 0.64% at the end of stripping. Cumulative endothelial mortality fold change (pre-strip to post-strip) was high in the first two years of operation (18.9%), which reduced to 5.1% in the following three years with significant difference (p = 0.0352). Average tissue wastage (3 operators) from first 1–150 tissues was 3%, which significantly reduced to 0.9% after achieving the learning curve (151–250) (p = 0.0492).

Conclusion

DMEK graft preparation requires a learning curve. However, an operator with DMEK stripping skills can easily adapt to pre-loading a DMEK graft in endothelium-inwards fashion with minimal learning curve.
Clinical outcomes of stromal lenticule rotation to correct mixed astigmatism
Authors: Sun Xiyu , Shen Di , Jiang Haixiang , Wang Yani , Wang Rui , Wei Wei
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To describe a stromal lenticule rotation surgical technique to correct mixed astigmatism and evaluate the initial clinical outcomes of this innovative approach.

Methods

This retrospective case series included five eyes from five patients with mixed astigmatism that underwent intrastromal lenticule rotation surgery. The eyes were evaluated for uncorrected visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity, manifest refraction, central corneal thickness, corneal volume, anterior and posterior K readings, and corneal higher order aberrations (HOAs) (including total HOAs, spherical aberrations, coma, and trefoil) using the Scheimpflug-Placido topographer before and 3 months after surgery. The corneal epithelium and stroma were imaged using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) postoperatively. A paired-sample t-test was used to analyse the data.

Results

Clinical improvement was found in the uncorrected distance visual acuity (0.64 ± 0.11 logMAR vs. 0.20 ± 0.17 logMAR) and spherical and cylindrical diopters (D) (+2.65 ± 1.32 D vs. −0.05 ± 0.51 D and −4.95 ± 0.94 D vs. −1.10 ± 0.78 D, respectively). Anterior flat keratometry readings showed a steep trend (40.65 ± 1.24 D vs. 42.73 ± 0.63 D). Anterior corneal astigmatism decreased from 4.50 ± 0.55 D to 2.05 ± 0.73 D. According to the AS-OCT images, no significant epithelial remodelling was observed postoperatively. Although no significant differences were found among the increased corneal HOAs, the coma and trefoil changed much more than spherical aberrations 3 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

The results for these five eyes suggest that the autologous stromal lenticule rotation technique is safe and effective; it may be an economical and feasible surgical option for correcting mixed astigmatism.
Stability Studies of Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites in Blood Components Define Optimal Blood Processing Conditions
Authors: Heng Benjamin , Pires Ananda Staats , Chow Sharron , Krishnamurthy Shivani , Bonnell Brooke , Bustamante Sonia , Guillemin Gilles J
Published: December 2023

The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the main pathway of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism that generates energy for multiple cellular processes. The activity of this pathway has been shown to be dysregulated in multiple human diseases. The resultant modulation of metabolites has been suggested to comprise biomarkers to track disease progression or could identify new therapeutic targets. While metabolite changes can be measured readily in blood, there is limited knowledge on the effect of blood matrices and sample processing time may have on the stability of KP metabolites. Understanding the stability of KP metabolites in blood is integral to obtaining accurate KP data to correlate with clinical pathology. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess the concentration of KP metabolites in matched whole blood, plasma and serum. The impact of pre-analytical sample processing time in the various blood matrices was also analysed. Serum and plasma had the higher concentration of KP metabolites compared to whole blood. Furthermore, concentrations of KP metabolites declined when the collected blood was processed after 24 hours storage at 4°C. Our study shows that that type of blood matrix and the time to processing have an impact on the stability of the KP metabolites. Serum or plasma are the preferred choice of matrix and the isolation of these matrices from whole blood is best performed immediately after collection for optimal analytical KP data.
Is there a glitch in the matrix? Artificial intelligence and management education
Authors: Krammer Sorin MS
Published: December 2023

The rapid rise to prominence of ChatGPT, one of the most successful generative artificial intelligence tools to date, presents both important challenges and opportunities for management education. Specifically, while it improves prospects in many areas (i.e. remote learning, asynchronous communication, online collaboration, gamification, student engagement and assessments), it also poses significant challenges, particularly in relation to academic integrity and traditional forms of assessment (i.e. ‘open book’, non-invigilated, essays). Drawing on insights from social epistemology, I argue that this exogenous shock to the educational system provides opportunities for epistemic evolution, particularly in fields like management education, where essays have traditionally been the dominant form of assessment. I conclude by proposing potential responses to this disruption that can enable educators, students and institutions to succeed in this new environment.
What is the best way to evaluate social prescribing? A qualitative feasibility assessment for a national impact evaluation study in England
Authors: Ayorinde Abimbola , Grove Amy , Ghosh Iman , Harlock Jenny , Meehan Edward , Tyldesley-Marshall Natalie , Briggs Adam , Clarke Aileen , Al-Khudairy Lena
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Despite significant investment in social prescribing in England over the last decade, we still do not know if it works, or how models of social prescribing fit within wider health and care policy and practice. This study explores current service delivery structures and assesses the feasibility of a national evaluation of the link worker model.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted between May and September 2020, with 25 key informants from across social prescribing services in England. Participants included link workers, voluntary, community and social enterprise staff, and those involved in policy and decision-making for social prescribing services. Interview and workshop transcripts were analysed thematically, adopting a framework approach.

Results

We found differences in how services are provided, including by individual link workers, and between organisations and regions. Standards, referral pathways, reporting, and monitoring structures differ or are lacking in voluntary services as compared to clinical services. People can self-refer to a link worker or be referred by a third party, but the lack of standardised processes generated confusion in both public and professional perceptions of the link worker model. We identified challenges in determining the appropriate outcomes and outcome measures needed to assess the impact of the link worker model.

Conclusions

The current varied service delivery structures in England poses major challenges for a national impact evaluation. Any future rigorous evaluation needs to be underpinned with national standardised outcomes and process measures which promote uniform data collection.
High health care use prior to elective surgery for osteoarthritis is associated with poor postoperative outcomes: A Canadian population-based cohort study
Authors: Canizares Mayilee , Power J Denise , Perruccio Anthony V , Paterson Michael , Mahomed Nizar N , Rampersaud Y Raja
Published: December 2023

Background

The characterization and influence of preoperative health care use on quality-of-care indicators (e.g., readmissions) has received limited attention in populations with musculoskeletal disorders. The purpose of this study was to characterize preoperative health care use and examine its effect on quality-of-care indicators among patients undergoing elective surgery for osteoarthritis.

Methods

Data on health care use for 124,750 patients with elective surgery for osteoarthritis in Ontario, Canada, from April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2018 were linked across health administrative databases. Using total health care use one-year previous to surgery, patients were grouped from low to very high users. We used Poisson regression models to estimate rate ratios, while examining the relationship between preoperative health care use and quality-of-care indicators (e.g., extended length of stay, complications, and 90-day hospital readmissions). We controlled for covariates (age, sex, neighborhood income, rural/urban residence, comorbidities, and surgical anatomical site).

Results

We found a statistically significant trend of increasing worse outcomes by health care use gradients that persisted after controlling for patient demographics and comorbidities. Findings were consistent across surgical anatomical sites. Moreover, very high users have relatively large numbers of visits to non-musculoskeletal specialists.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight that information on patients’ preoperative health care use, together with other risk factors (such as comorbidities), could help decision-making when benchmarking or reimbursing hospitals caring for complex patients undergoing surgery for osteoarthritis.
Teachers’ voices on multimodal input for second or foreign language learning
Authors: Cárdenas-Claros Mónica Stella , Sydorenko Tetyana , Huntley Elizabeth , Montero Perez Maribel
Published: December 2023

Multimodal input – which combines written, auditory, and/or visual modalities – is pervasive in everyday life and could serve as a source of rich input in language teaching. In recent years, research has determined that vocabulary learning is one of the clear benefits of being exposed to such input. Regrettably, only a handful of studies have investigated whether and how second language (L2) teachers approach multimodal input in teaching. To further contribute to the research–practice dialogue, we examined factors that influence L2 teachers’ use of multimodal input in L2 teaching. This qualitative case study presents an in-depth analysis of interview data derived from 21 practitioners in various L2 teaching contexts globally. Following three rounds of data analysis, 24 factors were identified and are presented in four themes. The results indicate that teachers: (1) paid close attention to their students’ needs and goals; (2) drew on their own learning and teaching experiences and training supported by research-based practices; (3) relied on sound pedagogical principles; and (4) faced a number of contextual challenges relevant to their curricula and teaching contexts.
Meta-economics, scale and contemporary social theory: Re-reading E. F. Schumacher’sSmall is Beautiful
Authors: Ford Lucy , Harris Neal
Published: December 2023

In this article, we argue that E. F. Schumacher’s Small is Beautiful offers important insights for contemporary social theory. In particular, we focus on the merits of his use of ‘meta-economics’ and of ‘scale’ as a means for advancing ecological social critique. While we are sympathetic to Schumacher’s approach, we are mindful of the limitations to his theoretical imagination and commence our article acknowledging his partisan metaphysics and his insensitivity to global political dynamics. To resolve this, we demonstrate that the central critical insights Schumacher provides can be substantially extricated from these problems. Our task here, therefore, is a critical reconstruction of Schumacher’s approach to social-ecological critique, which we claim offers the potential to shape contemporary social theory, both within and beyond critical political ecology.
Near-fault ground motion effect on self-centering modular bracing panels considering soil-structure interaction
Authors: Rezvan Pooya , Zhang Yunfeng
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the nonlinear seismic response behavior of self-centering modular steel bracing panel (SCMBP) systems subjected to near-fault ground motion records, considering the soil-structure interaction (SSI) effect. Analytical formulas for the load-displacement relationship of an SCMBP were validated through nonlinear 3D continuum finite element analysis while a simplified 2D wireframe model utilizing a constitutive spring model was verified by the 2D refined finite element model and subsequently adopted for time history analysis of the SCMBP structures with SSI effect. Based on the nonlinear time history analysis of a 6-story prototype building subjected to a suite of near-fault ground motions, the prototype structure is found to be able to re-center itself even under near-fault ground motion scaled to the design basis earthquake (DBE) level while frame members remain undamaged, except for fuse devices. Additionally, SSI reduces inter-story drift ratios under both far-field and near-fault ground motions. The findings provide insights into the promising performance of using SCMBP systems as a seismic strengthening system for sites with potential SSI effects and near-fault earthquake impact. The findings of this study can be insightful to other self-centering systems with flag-shaped story shear hysteresis.
The power of ethnographic toolkit in understanding transnational culture
Authors: Dogan Akkaya Fatma
Published: December 2023

Intergenerational ethnographic research poses several practical, epistemological, and ethical challenges. This study seeks to address these complexities by encouraging researchers to construct personalised ethnographic toolkits that provide insights into uncovering the complex subjectivities of research populations through intergenerational narratives. Based on over two years of research among the Turkish community in London, the study reveals compelling examples of symbolic communication used by individuals of different generations, genders, and social roles. Using various data collection methods, including interviews, observation, drawing, and television viewing, the research illustrates how this ethnic community uses language, fashion, and religion to integrate into multicultural environments and manifest their belonging in transnational contexts. By incorporating methodological tools such as unplanned moments, reflexivity, and positionality, the study aims to understand the underpinnings of cultural identity by examining how different generations respond to social conditions shaped by migration.
Path planning of USV based on improved PRM under the influence of ocean current
Authors: Zhu Tengbin , Xiao Yingjie , Zhang Hao
Published: December 2023

Multi-extensibility and flexibility of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) allow them perform many different tasks, further path planning technology is crucial to the safety, autonomy, and intelligent navigation of USVs. Firstly, this paper analyzes the impact of ocean currents and risk constraints on USV based on the electronic chart. Then take the optimal sailing time as the objective function and design a path planning algorithm based on an improved probabilistic roadmap (PRM) algorithm, in which a Gaussian space sampling algorithm based on edge detection is introduced. After building the network topology environment through improved PRM, then a Dijkstra algorithm based on great circle distance is used to solve the optimal path. Finally, the simulation experiment is designed through the MATLAB platform. By comparing the average and the three quartile lengths of the planned paths under three environments, the values of the designed Edge-Gaussion (E-G) PRM algorithm are smaller than Lazy PRM and Gaussian PRM algorithm, which shows that the improved PRM algorithm has better performance. When planning the USV path under the influence of current, compared with traditional length optimal path planning, although the navigation length planned by the designed algorithm is shorter by 972 m, sailing time is improved by 110 s, which efficiency shows the better application on the sea.
Outcomes of Clampless Real Chimney Technique with Dacron Graft and Sleeve Banding of the Ascending Aorta for Total Debranching Endovascular Arch Repair
Authors: Matsuura Sohei , Motoki Manabu , Akai Atsushi , Kato Masaaki
Published: December 2023

Background:

Hybrid aortic arch repair with debranching of the supra-aortic vessels carries a high risk of cerebral infarction and fatal complications associated with side clamping of the ascending aorta. A previous study had reported the “real chimney” technique, a novel method for clamp-free total debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair with the ascending aortic sleeve banding with dacron. In this study, we aim to build upon this foundation by presenting our experience with the early and midterm outcomes of this technique.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 61 consecutive older adult patients with aortic arch pathologies and a high risk of open repair who underwent total debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair using the real chimney technique at our institution between January 2014 and June 2022. This technique was used to anastomose the ascending aorta with the main trunk of the triple-branched prosthetic graft.

Results:

The mean patient age was 75.1 years, and 54% of patients were transferred from medical facilities with cardiothoracic surgery departments. The comorbidities included chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (49.2%), chronic kidney disease (63.9%), coronary artery disease (27.9%), and history of stroke (31.1%). No 30-day mortality was observed. Complications included postoperative renal failure requiring permanent hemodialysis (4; 6.6%), stroke (modified Rankin scale score: ≥2 in 5; 8.2%), permanent paraplegia (1; 1.6%), and permanent paraparesis (4; 6.6%). The median follow-up period was 40.5±28.5 months. The postoperative survival rates at 5 years were 66.8%. No patients experienced complications associated with the aorta or anastomosis site; only 1 patient required an additional procedure for stenosis of the anastomosis site (midterm). An aneurysmal diameter reduction of ≥3 mm was observed in 37 cases (60.7%), and the mean aneurysmal diameter reduction was 5.3 mm.

Conclusions:

The postoperative outcome of total debranching thoracic endovascular aortic arch repair is not only acceptable but also promising, particularly in patients at high risk of open repair.

Clinical Impact

Our novel real chimney technique for total debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair of aortic arch pathologies in patients who were at a high-risk for open repair resulted in no 30-day mortality and no complications related to the aorta or the real chimney anastomosis site. The real chimney technique is effective for managing aortic arch pathologies and enables less invasive total debranching thoracic endovascular aortic arch repair without the need for extracorporeal circulation and clamping of the ascending aorta
Chronic Health Condition Management and School-Based Health Centers in New York: Findings From the 2020 School Health Profiles Survey
Authors: McCabe Ellen M. , Jameson Beth E. , Grunin Laura , Yu Gary
Published: December 2023

School-based health centers (SBHCs) are associated with numerous positive aspects of student health services. Many schools in the United States (US) do not have transparent policies on chronic health condition (CHC) management. Of particular concern is the underreporting of the delivery of health services in U.S. schools concerning CHC management and its relationship with the presence or absence of a SBHC. Data from the 2020 School Health Profiles (SHP) Survey were examined in New York public secondary schools. Specific health services were reviewed, together with the presence or absence of a SBHC, including daily medication administration, stock rescue medication, case management services, community partners, chronic disease-specific education, and assurance that students with CHCs were enrolled in an insurance program. A significantly greater proportion of schools with a SBHC compared with schools without a SBHC provided: (1) daily medication administration (92.9% vs. 86.5%; p < .001), (2) stock or rescue medication (84.9% vs. 77.4%; p < .001), (3) case management services (83.1% vs. 67.2%; p < .001), (4) disease-specific education for families (63.1% vs. 57.2%; p = .022), (5) student and family connection to community health services (84.2% vs. 76.5%; p < .001), and (6) ensured that a protocol existed whereby students with a CHC were enrolled in an insurance plan if eligible (79.6% vs. 66.8%; p < .001). Findings suggest that data on a national scale include essential facts for states to consider concerning school health policies and practices. Additional research should examine the intricacy of elements connected with school-based health care to understand better the care provided to children with CHCs.
Analyzing the Release of Juvenile Lifers: Is There a Miller Effect?
Authors: Kokkalera Stuti S. , Smith Wesley T. , Wronski Beatriz Amalfi
Published: December 2023

In the 2012 decision in Miller v. Alabama, the U.S. Supreme Court directed states to provide a “meaningful opportunity to obtain release” to juvenile lifers—one that acknowledges their lesser culpability and rehabilitative potential. In the state examined, the parole board revised its decision-making guidelines in 2014 by incorporating the Miller ruling. Logistic regression and survival analyses were employed to examine parole outcomes. Hearings that took place in the post- Miller period and the candidate’s rehabilitative status were associated with a higher likelihood of release. A candidate’s rehabilitative efforts were also associated with the amount of time taken to decide grant or denial of release, as were factors related to the candidate’s sentencing offense such as time served and opposition at the parole hearing. Overall, the guidelines representing the Miller ruling seem to have influenced the outcome as well as the speed at which decisions are reached by the parole board.
A Call to Journal: Grief Work and Poetry—A Reflection
Authors: Kuhnke Janet L.
Published: December 2023

In this poetic work, journaling is shared as a means to navigate grief. The call is to spiritual leaders to encourage those grieving to be creative in their journey. This is a tool to support understanding the experience of grief as a healthcare provider.
From Aesthetics to Asymmetry: Contradictions of Ecological Play in Cities: Skylines
Authors: May Lawrence , Hall Ben
Published: December 2023

Anchored in the Anthropocene era's paradigm of human mastery over nature, Cities: Skylines grants its players extensive agency to shape untouched terrains into sprawling cities. We draw upon “ecological thought”—a mode of awareness that highlights the radical interconnectedness of all beings and their environments—to consider the ecological dynamics of city-building by the game's players. Analyzing player-generated paratexts from online game communities reveals that while many players aspire toward ecocentric city designs, they instead inadvertently restage the asymmetric planetary relationship emblematic of our current era. Our analysis uncovers the capital-driven assumptions that characterize human–environment relations in the game. Attempts at ecocentric aesthetics invariably subsumed by cybernetic interactions that privilege the Anthropocene's prevailing power dynamics. These expressions highlight the inherent contradictions of the Anthropocene era as encountered in Cities: Skylines and illustrate the permeability between the contemporary material world and digital play.
School leadership in the United Arab Emirates: A scoping review
Authors: Rai Joseph , Beresford-Dey Marie
Published: December 2023

Global research identifies school leadership as a critical factor in school success and effectiveness, especially in an educational reform environment with an ever-increasing number of schools working within public–private partnerships, a feature that characterises the United Arab Emirates. To aid leadership development and practices in a fast-moving education context and to underpin future empirical research, this scoping review of the literature from across three databases provides practitioners and policymakers with an understanding of school leadership for the public–private sector in the United Arab Emirates. Our search yielded 38 publications for analysis. Findings indicate that over the last 20 years, school leadership research in the United Arab Emirates has mainly focused on four themes: (1) context: leaders’ roles and school reform; (2) competency: hiring and professional development of school leaders; (3) characteristics: leadership styles and (4) capacity building: teacher leadership. We conclude with recommendations for research, including exploring cultural, relational, and compassionate school leadership through indigenous paradigms. We also provide recommendations for policy and practice, including the need to modify recruitment methods, equip school leaders to lead reform through advanced models of leadership to suit the collectivist United Arab Emirates culture, and align professional development with the professional standards.
Challenges of Ethnic Party Adaptation in Power-Sharing Systems: Evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Dettman Sebastian
Published: December 2023

In authoritarian systems, ethnic power-sharing arrangements include important ethnic groups in government and decision-making while putting restraints on political competition. However, under conditions of democratization, we might expect power-sharing arrangements to fragment as political parties seize opportunities to expand their base and appeal across ethnic lines. This article draws from the case of Malaysia, where multiethnic coalitions built around ethnic parties ruled for 61 years but where increasing electoral competitiveness has destabilized coalition politics. I focus on the Democratic Action Party (DAP), one of the country's most successful parties, which has sought to build a more multiethnic support base. I show that its attempts have been stymied by enduring norms of ethnically informed coalition building and efforts to protect existing ethnic bases by both rivals and allies. The findings shed light on the barriers to ethnic party adaptation and on why power-sharing practices remain so enduring, even in more fluid and democratic political environments.
University and resistance: New state and new struggles
Authors: Peerzada Raouf Ahmad , Sharma Amrita , Kannan Samyuktha
Published: December 2023

Resistance movements in India have often found support and sustenance within universities that have offered profound association, critical engagement, expertise, camaraderie, and, in some cases, even leadership. Working within the structural confines of statism, nationalism and global capitalism, universities have managed to advance critical instruction, pedagogical innovations, and political resistance. This dialectical relationship between the university and society emphasizes the position of educators as inextricably linked to the social production of labor power. With the power to equip students, teachers not only become conduits of emancipatory knowledge but also have the power to politicize students and transform the classroom into spaces of resistance against capitalism, that has consistently emphasized education as a commodity. As a result, universities have offered and preserved crucial spaces of radical (re)thinking and a critical platform for waging a war for democracy. A new form of protracted and collective political resistance is necessary if democracy is to be restored from the ruins of unrestrained capitalism. Being the meeting points of decades of collective struggles of students–teachers–workers, universities may yet again offer that if they survive the assaults of neoliberalism and evolve to preserve its progressive social character.
Anti-discrimination legislation and protection of working conditions of the self-employed
Authors: Muszyński Karol
Published: December 2023

This contribution discusses the CJEU ruling in C-356/21 J.K. v TP S.A. It concludes that the ruling contributes to the ongoing development that disentangles the concept of the protection of working conditions from the employment relationship, granting self-employed workers who provide work on a personal basis protection against discrimination. It further discusses the ruling in the context of the spread of non-standard forms of employment on the labour market and policy initiatives to tackle them.

Case

Case C-356/21 J.K. v TP S.A.

Related cases

C-587/20 – HK/Danmark and HK/Privat; C-507/18 - Associazione Avvocatura per i diritti LGBTI
Humanoid artificial intelligence, media conferences and natural responses to journalists’ questions: The end of (human-to-human) public relations?
Authors: Swiatek Lukasz , Galloway Chris , Vujnovic Marina , Kruckeberg Dean
Published: December 2023

In a world-first human-robot media conference (held in Geneva, Switzerland, in July 2023), highly life-like humanoid robots gave answers of unprecedented sophistication to journalists’ questions. The media conference highlighted the extent to which artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the dynamics of public relations with extraordinary speed and, in particular, now posing a very real threat to the jobs of (human) practitioners. It is also likely to lead to the devaluing of professional communication undertaken by human beings. This polemical essay not only contends that scholars and practitioners have moved too slowly to consider the impacts of rapidly evolving AI on the profession, but also calls for both practitioners and academics to safeguard interpersonal (human) communication by urgently considering the possibility that many human-held jobs and livelihoods will be lost to increasingly sophisticated – and now ultra-realistic humanoid – AI much sooner than had been anticipated. Indeed, AI is creating ever-greater job losses that only exacerbate existing social inequities.