bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The politics of beneficiary selection: A case study of Ghana’s Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) cash transfer programme
Authors: Akyeampong Betty
Published: September 2024

In communities of Sub-Saharan Africa, where local elites participate in the selection of households for cash transfers, there is a tendency to deviate from laid down rules for various reasons. Using qualitative data from selected districts where Ghana’s Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme is implemented, this study investigates the reasons why district and community elites deviate from prescribed selection processes of the LEAP programme. Drawing on the concept of competitive clientelism, the findings suggest that elites are deeply guided by political patronage to fulfil one primary goal, protecting their role in office. Such ambition is facilitated by the discretionary power accorded to elites by the local government system and socio-cultural values deeply rooted in Ghanaian society. In conclusion, the study draws out key lessons from the analysis and suggests a design of beneficiary selection frameworks that acknowledges the nature of domestic politics, institutions of power and powerful actors at the subnational level. The article also highlights the implications of the findings for the broad politics of social protection literature.
‘You’ll come back another day’ Exploring the challenges of interviewing upper class elites
Authors: Grant Graham , Fulford Heather , Reid Peter
Published: September 2024

This article addresses the challenges of undertaking elite interviews with members of the aristocracy and gentry who constitute the upper classes in Great Britain. It reviews the existing guidance on elite interviewing from a number of social science disciplines highlighting areas of commonality and difference. The aim of the article is to provide advice for those undertaking research on the upper classes. It draws on empirical examples to highlight strategies for undertaking broad and deep literature reviews and to present a pragmatic process for identifying, selecting, and undertaking interviews with members of the upper classes. Existing guidance on interview format is highlighted as being unsuitable. We argue for the need to allow for flexibility in interview structures ranging from fully structured to almost entirely unstructured, depending on the positionality and personality of the interviewee. We also explore how the presupposition of anonymity and confidentiality in the literature presents a dilemma for researching the upper classes that warrants wider debate.
Awaiting further consideration
Authors: Dickson Jane
Published: September 2024

School exclusion is a relatively rare occurrence, but there is a disproportionate over-representation of students with special educational needs (SEN) being excluded from mainstream classrooms, both formally and through hidden practices. Venturing from the classroom into the world of educational research for my doctoral study, I came across further potentially exclusionary practices as questions were raised about the capacity of students labelled as SEN to provide voluntary informed consent. In my contribution to this special issue, I use poetry to reflect on ethical issues in my study and the need to challenge perceptions of the vulnerable in order to fight for their rights to be heard and participate equitably in all aspects of society.
What does Italianness stand for? The use of ethnic resources among Italian migrant entrepreneurs in Brussels
Authors: Mascia Carla , Solano Giacomo , Jacobs Dirk
Published: September 2024

Research on migrant entrepreneurship has extensively focused on the ethnic dimension of these economic activities, especially entrepreneurs’ use of ethnic resources. Many scholars have tended to reify ethnicity and overlook migrant entrepreneurs’ ability to define and use ethnic resources. Adopting a dynamic perspective that acknowledges in-group diversity and entrepreneurs’ agency in utilizing these ethnic resources, we examine how Italian migrant entrepreneurs in Brussels conceive their relationship with the Italian community and leverage their ethnicity (Italianness/Italianità, i.e., the fact of being Italian). We find in-group variation, challenging reifying and deterministic analyses of “ethnic” entrepreneurship. Instead, ethnicity emerges as a resource that entrepreneurs mobilize to distinguish themselves socially and entrepreneurially from other Italians.
Ontological politics in competing tourismscapes: The rise of a public on the Nayarit Riviera, Mexico
Authors: López Regalado Francisca , Verschoor Gerard
Published: September 2024

This article examines a conflict over land on Las Islitas beach in San Blas, Nayarit, Mexico, between the owners of small beachfront eateries or enramadas and an Indigenous communal agrarian organization. We interpret this conflict as being not only a struggle over land but also as a struggle between the enactment of different tourismscapes and the corresponding ontological premises upon which these are based. To build our argument, we explore the historical production of tourismscapes in San Blas and the crucial part that a colonial parchment and littoral drift play in this. As we show, the conflict has created a public, that is, a confederation of dissimilar actors who are united by a shared experience of harm and who take important decisions and engage in politics. We conclude with some ideas as concerns the need to account for the ontological politics that emerge from tourism-related conflicts.
Landcare and Landscapes and Accidental Beauty: Failing Digital Technologies and the Gaze of Child Researchers
Authors: Lasczik Alexandra , Cutter-Mackenzie-Knowles Amy , Osborn Maia , Siegel Lisa , Logan Marianne
Published: September 2024

This visual essay curates an exhibition of photographic data from a project with children about Landcare, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to managing environmental issues in local communities across Australia. The project sought to empower children to engage with Landcare Reserves through participatory arts-based research to map their awareness of and participation in local Landcare Reserve sites. This visual essay recognizes the images as agentic entities, with the power to activate the gaze beyond the boundaries of this project as embedded yet transcendent from it whilst simultaneously acknowledging the ‘failing’ agency of the sensing body of the camera.
The hybrid authenticity of virtual pilgrimage
Authors: Tran Mai Khanh , Davies Andrew
Published: September 2024

The complex relationship between religion and markets deserves nuanced scholarly reflection and observation. The continuing explosion of online or digital expressions of religion invites researchers to consider the authenticity of virtual pilgrimage experience, for which it is situated at the intersections between religious and marketing studies that allows various dimensions of authenticity to take place. The key contribution of this conceptual paper lies in its development and application of a ‘Hybrid authenticity’ framework which helps explain the consumer-congregants’ development of perceived authenticity of virtual pilgrimage. This framework invites a shift in focus towards the prioritization of iconic-authenticity cues that facilitates a much more ‘liquid’ attachment to object-based authenticity. It also emphasizes the importance of place as an element of constructive authenticity in interpreting pilgrims’ experience and the vital contribution of integrating both interpersonal and intrapersonal authenticity. We suggest the mechanism of this hybrid framework is defined by the interdependence between its elements. We also discuss the two underlying conditions for the mechanism; technology working as an embodied site of interaction and consumer (re)negotiation of authenticity. Viewing virtual pilgrimage as part of a broader social and cultural transformation, we propose the framework also has applicability to other marketing and post-postmodern consumption studies.
Cognitive assessment of nursing home residents: Survey data on tools used and perceptions of use among social service professionals in one U.S. state
Authors: Campbell Anthony D. , Jettner Jennifer F. , Crawford Katherine , Thompson Kayla
Published: September 2024

Background: Social service professionals routinely use screening tools to assess for cognitive decline or identify suspected dementia in nursing home residents. Published literature lacks details about the specific tools used and how professionals use and perceive them in practice. The aim of this study is to better understand cognitive screening roles performed by nursing home social service professionals and how they view their use and efficacy.Methods: An online survey was administered to all 230 nursing homes in the US state of Alabama between October 2021 and March 2022. Fifty-three social service professionals who conduct resident cognitive screenings responded to the survey.Results: In addition to completing the US-mandated Brief Interview of Mental Status (BIMS) quarterly, 75% of participants reported using additional tools, most notably the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE). Participants reported using different tools for varied purposes. Those who used both the BIMS and MMSE rated the BIMS significantly higher on ease and time to administer while rating the MMSE higher on reliability and validity. Although most participants reported high levels of confidence using the tools, over half of participants indicated interest in further training in cognitive assessment tools.Discussion: Findings provide evidence regarding who administers nursing home cognitive screenings, which tools are used, and their experiences using those tools. Participant responses reveal the value of using multiple screening tools for improved detection of cognitive status and decline for residents as well as a need for additional training in cognitive assessment. Findings also suggest that the primary tool used for cognitive screening may be quick and easy to use at the expense of perceived reliability and validity. Further evaluation of nursing home cognitive assessment is needed.
Pragmatic sociology and the economics of convention: Introducing a ‘novel’ approach to English-speaking education research
Authors: Holmqvist Diana , Telling Kathryn
Published: September 2024

This special issue brings together current work in education research that engages with a pragmatic, yet critical theoretical tradition sprung from the French context during the 1980s. Based on a particular understanding of existence, perception, reality and the dynamics of social life, this theoretical tradition has continuously been developed over the past four decades in a variety of fields, such as law, economic studies, political sciences, education research and sociology. Despite its rich history, this approach has until recently only garnered limited attention from English-speaking research communities. Consequently, our aim is to introduce the approach to the European Education Research Journal readership and demonstrate the tradition’s richness and range of use for education research. By showing the many ways in which this perspective can be utilised in education research, we hope to inspire more scholars who publish in English-speaking contexts to engage with us and explore what insights this ‘novel’ perspective can bring to our research field. In this editorial, we briefly explain the perspective’s base assumptions and key features, discuss the potential relevance of this approach for education research, and introduce the articles of the special issue. First, however, we want to address the issue of naming.
A combined RF–GRNN algorithm for monitoring complex damage of bolted joints with high-level robustness
Authors: Liao Weilin , Bai Shengbao , Sun Hu , Hu Xiaolan , Wang Yishou , Qing Xinlin
Published: September 2024

Bolted joints in aerospace, rail transportation, civil engineering, and other applications are prone to various forms of damage, such as bolt loosening and crack, due to the harsh service environments. The difficulties arising from crosstalk and nonlinear evaluation between composite damage and single damage at bolted joints in practical monitoring environments are particularly pronounced. In response to this challenge, we propose an integrated algorithm, namely the random forest-generalized regression neural network (RF–GRNN) algorithm, characterized by high-level robustness. The proposed algorithm adheres to the core concept of “specificity” and forms a multi-task prediction framework of “classification before regression.” This approach enables efficient damage assessment and mitigates the nonlinear complexity of the prediction model. To evaluate the effectiveness of the RF–GRNN algorithm, its generalization, robustness, and prediction accuracy based on the piezoelectric ultrasonic guided wave principle under 0%–10% noise (the corresponding minimum signal-to-noise ratio was 10.4 dB) interference were investigated. Additionally, we clarify the impact of feature selection and its combination method on the algorithm’s prediction performance, deciphering the intrinsic link between prediction performance and feature distribution. The results demonstrate that the presented algorithm achieves the accurate classification and quantification of multiple bolted structural states, including no damage, crack, loosening, and crack-loosening composite damage. Therefore, the RF–GRNN algorithm is an important attempt to solve the bottleneck present in existing damage monitoring techniques which fail to balance the identification and quantification of multiple damage models.
Adaptive stepsize forward–backward pursuit and acoustic emission-based health state assessment of high-speed train bearings
Authors: Han Defu , Qi Hongyuan , Wang ShuangXin , Hou Dongming , Wang Cuiping
Published: September 2024

Compressed sensing (CS) is a promising tool for data compression reconstruction. However, fault diagnosis methods for high-speed train bearings based on CS and acoustic emission (AE) technologies have not been reported yet. Notably, the accuracy and speed of CS two-stage reconstruction methods are affected and restricted by prior initial conditions. Therefore, this article proposes adaptive dynamic thresholds applicable to adaptive stepsize forward–backward pursuit (ASFBP), and bearing health state assessment method. First, the adaptive dynamic thresholds for atom selection and deletion are constructed based on the residual feedback mechanism and the atom quality distribution law, which enables ASFBP to realize high-precision rapid reconstruction of signal without any atom priori initial conditions. Second, the initial dictionary length is improved based on the AE hit characteristics. Furthermore, a damage state comprehensive evaluation index (DSCEI) is established using principal component analysis based on AE time-domain hit parameters and compression-domain energy parameter. Compared with the kurtosis index and permutation entropy index, the DSCEI demonstrates better monotonicity and stability in the quantitative evaluation of high-speed train bearing condition. Finally, the validity and stability of the method are verified by testing under complex test conditions resembling actual high-speed train lines, providing valuable insights for the CS-based data-driven bearing fault diagnosis.
A novel component separation method for deformation monitoring of rockfill dams
Authors: Li Yajiao , Chen Chen , Zhang Han , Zhang Liming , Zhao Wenjian , Zhang Pengtao , Xue Jianghan , Tang Xiyang
Published: September 2024

High dams are constructed in mountain valley areas with extremely complex geomorphologies, geologies, and operating environments. The dam body and foundation are subjected to large hydraulic loadings and high stress levels, where many factors affect the structural deformation of the dam, making dam safety monitoring and risk assessment difficult. Since dam deformation is critical for evaluating safe operation, a novel dam deformation monitoring model based on the component separation method is proposed, which can provide scientific significance and high application value for operational safety control. The deformation monitoring data include deformation caused by the water level, the temperature, and the time effect. The homologous monitoring sequence points are selected, and a safety monitoring model is proposed based on the physical causes and the independent component signal decomposition technology. First, the aging component can be extracted by using the correlation consistency of a specific measurement point, where the environment is almost the same at the same time of year, such as the temperature and the water level. Then, fast independent component analysis algorithm is applied to further extract the dam deformation induced by the water level and the temperature via correlation analysis. Finally, a deformation monitoring model based on the component separation can be successfully constructed by combining models of the three components. The proposed dam deformation model can overcome problems of large covariance of deformation component, large collinear interference of periodic component separation, and unstable separation. It is further applied to a high face rockfill dam, and the results shows that the multiple correlation coefficient is greater than 0.995 and the mean absolute percentage error is less than 1.37%, demonstrating the high accuracy and stable separation of the components produced by using this model.
Lignin dispersion in polybutadiene rubber (BR) with different mixing parameters
Authors: Koskinen Jukka , Kemppainen Noora , Sarlin Essi
Published: September 2024

There is a strong need to replace carbon black and silica as a reinforcing filler in rubber industry. Lignin is a promising option as a replacement, because of its wide availability, complex chemistry and sustainable source. Typically, the reinforcing effect of lignin is weak and one major cause is the poor dispersion of filler. In this study, typical dispersion parameters in mixing are tested in a systematic way to validate their effect on kraft lignin dispersion in polybutadiene rubber. Tested mixing variables are temperature, rotor speed, mixing time, fill ratio and shear forces. The effect of variables to dispersion are analyzed from electron microscopy images with an image analysis software. With this novel method exact number of particles and their properties could be calculated. Unlike for conventional fillers (carbon black and silica), the results show clearly that only the mixing temperature has an effect on lignin dispersion in rubber. With high mixing temperatures, dispersion and hence mechanical properties improved. The better dispersion is especially seen as decreasing number of large (>Ø 5 μm) particles. Other mixing variables did not have significant effect on dispersion and the number of large particles.
Do household and childcare task divisions prospectively predict engagement in time-costly continuing education among Dutch working mothers and fathers?
Authors: van der Meulen Erik
Published: September 2024

Despite its importance for career development, previous cross-sectional studies have shown that individuals are reluctant to consider continuing education (CE) engagement because of family responsibilities. To prospectively test these associations, a longitudinal dataset consisting of, respectively, 548 and 809 working mothers and fathers (with one or more living-at-home children of 12 years or younger) was extracted from a Dutch population–based internet survey. Whether respondents were engaged in T2 CE was prospectively predicted by T1a (with an average 466-day time-lag) household labour, childcare division, and job–household focus, while controlling for several relevant T1b job and household characteristics. Using generalised linear mixed models, outcomes reveal that only mothers are less likely to engage in CE when they had less children. Division of household labour, childcare, and job–household focus were all not predictive of CE at T2. Future studies should examine moderators of the association between family responsibilities and CE engagement.
Dietary behaviour, attitude and food perceptions of patients with ulcerative colitis – An observational study
Authors: Sahni Nancy , Rana Urvashi , Rajan Sindhuja , Jena Anuraag , Singh Anupam K , Dutta Usha , Sharma Vishal
Published: September 2024

Background:

Dietary knowledge, perception and practices may have a role in determining the nutritional status of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the assessment of these patterns has infrequently been done in developing countries. We aimed to evaluate patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) about their dietary beliefs, practices and changes after the diagnosis.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among patients with UC at a tertiary care centre in North India. Apart from clinical details, we collected information about dietary beliefs, sources of information, dietary practices and changes after the diagnosis of UC. The information was collected using a designed and pretested survey questionnaire.

Results:

We included 93 patients with a mean age of 40.6 ± 13.3 years and 49 (52.7%) were men. A majority of patients felt that diet had an important role in the causation of IBD (86%, n = 80) and triggering relapses (86%, n = 80). A total of 94.6% of patients ( n = 88) felt that certain foods (especially spicy and fatty food and milk) items increased the symptoms of IBD. Patients felt that some food items (yogurt and buttermilk) improved the symptoms. A total of 96.8% of patients ( n = 90) changed their diet in some form (commonly, restriction of milk products and outside food), 64% of patients ( n = 60) deprived themselves of their favourite food after diagnosis, 80.6% of patients ( n = 75) felt a need for additional dietary advice. Regular milk intake was seen more often by patients in remission than those with active disease in IBD (36/47 (76.6%) vs 7/15(46.6%), p = 0.03).

Conclusion:

Most patients believe that diet has an important role in the causation, relapses and treatment of UC. Patients also felt the need for more information regarding diet in IBD.
Barriers and Enablers of Successful Workplace Integration of Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) in a Host Country: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis
Authors: Shiju Mehar , Hall Helen , Lee Claire , Whitehouse Claire
Published: September 2024

The aim of this qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) is to critically appraise the contemporary literature to gain a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and enablers of workplace integration needs of internationally educated nurses (IENs). An electronic search was conducted across multiple databases, and eligibility criteria were applied to identify papers published between January 2013 and July 2023. Out of the 830 studies initially retrieved, six met the inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool. Thematic analysis of the included studies revealed various barriers and enablers for workplace integration experienced by IENs. Barriers were: (a) IEN-related factors (cultural differences, language barriers, and disparities in the scope of nursing practice), (b) organizational factors (poor leadership), and (c) contextual factors (racism and discrimination). Enablers emerged were: (a) IEN-related factors (commitment to learn and adapt) and (b) organizational factors (structured multifaceted program, supportive workplace environment, and mentorship). Dynamic interaction exists among these factors, therefore interventions should address multiple barriers simultaneously. The QES has illuminated essential factors which impact the integration of IENs, and emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive approach that considers the diverse challenges and opportunities that arise.
Ideology as/of Platform Affordance and Black Feminist Conceptualizations of “Canceling”: Reading Twitter
Authors: lasade-anderson temi , Sobande Francesca
Published: September 2024

As Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter highlights, platforms’ affordances extend further than UI choices and content formats emphasized. Extant work addresses that political perspectives are implicated in the affordances of platforms; however, the notion of “ideology as/of affordance” requires more scholarly attention, namely, from a Black feminist position which grapples with the raced and gendered dimensions of how such shaping of affordances is understood and experienced in digital contexts. A Black feminist analysis offers a critical intervention that examines the dynamics between ideology, digital culture, and relational experiences of autonomy. Thus, our article outlines how “ideology as/of affordance” is a helpful intervention for illuminating the power relations by which both “cancel culture” and “platform affordances” are defined. Specifically, we explicate how white supremacist ideology underpins platform affordances, which in turn shape who is “canceled,” and consider the key connections and disconnections between them.
Calling out Feminists: Antifeminist Hijacking of Cancel Culture in South Korea
Authors: Kim Jinsook
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the antifeminist appropriation of cancel culture in South Korea, focusing on the controversy surrounding the finger-pinching motif, allegedly associated with Megalia, a now-defunct feminist online community. While cancel culture originated from marginalized groups challenging systemic injustices, it is now appropriated by dominant groups to reinforce social structures—in this case, to protect male privilege and undermine feminism. The study reveals how antifeminist canceling in the country has extended over the years beyond subcultural industries to companies, government agencies, and public institutions. Although both feminists and antifeminists engage in cancel practices, antifeminist canceling has led to the removal of numerous advertisements and the sanctioning of women and precarious workers, reflecting the fundamental gender power imbalance in South Korea. By examining social, public, and institutional responses, I argue that such institutional enforcement upholds and reproduces the antifeminist hijacking of cancel culture, further silencing marginalized communities.
Prognostic Value of IGFBP6 in Breast Cancer: Focus on Glucometabolism
Authors: Lu Hang , Yu Xin , Xu Zhiliang , Deng Jingwen , Zhang Master Jingwen , Zhang Yimin , Sun Shengrong
Published: September 2024

IGFBP6, a member of the IGF binding protein (IGFBP) family, is a specific inhibitor of insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) and can inhibit the growth of malignant tumors overexpressing IGF-II. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a basic disorder of glucose metabolism that can be regulated by IGF-related pathways. We performed bioinformatics analysis of the TCGA database to explore the possible mechanism of IGFBP6 in breast cancer (BC) metabolism and prognosis and collected clinical samples from BC patients with and without T2D to compare and verify the prognostic effect of IGFBP6. In our study, the levels of IGFBP1–6 were positively correlated with overall survival (OS) in patients with breast cancer. IGFBP6 was upregulated in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive BC, and ER-positive and progesterone receptor (PR) positive patients had a higher expression level of IGFBP6 than ER-negative and PR-negative patients. IGFBP6 could be used as an independent prognostic factor in BC. The expression of IGFBP6 was decreased in BC tissue, and BC tissue from patients with T2D had lower IGFBP6 expression levels than BC tissue from patients without T2D. IGFBP6 is mainly involved in the PI3K–Akt and TGF-β signaling pathways and tumor microenvironment regulation. In terms of metabolism, the expression of IGFBP6 was negatively correlated with that of most glucose metabolism-related genes. IGFBP6 expression was mainly correlated with mutations in TP53, PIK3CA, CDH1, and MAP3K1. In addition, the upregulation of IGFBP6 in BC increased the drug sensitivity to docetaxel, paclitaxel and gemcitabine. Overall, these results indicated that high expression of IGFBP6 is associated with a good prognosis in BC patients, especially in those without T2D. It is not only involved in the maintenance of the tumor microenvironment in BC but also inhibits the energy metabolism of cancer cells through glucose metabolism-related pathways. These findings may provide a new perspective on IGFBP6 as a potential prognostic marker for BC.
A 3 M Evaluation Protocol for Examining Lymph Nodes in Cancer Patients: Multi-Modal, Multi-Omics, Multi-Stage Approach
Authors: Wang Ruochong , Zhang Zhiyan , Zhao Mengyun , Zhu Guiquan
Published: September 2024

Through meticulous examination of lymph nodes, the stage and severity of cancer can be determined. This information is invaluable for doctors to select the most appropriate treatment plan and predict patient prognosis; however, any oversight in the examination of lymph nodes may lead to cancer metastasis and poor prognosis. In this review, we summarize a significant number of articles supported by statistical data and clinical experience, proposing a standardized evaluation protocol for lymph nodes. This protocol begins with preoperative imaging to assess the presence of lymph node metastasis. Radiomics has replaced the single-modality approach, and deep learning models have been constructed to assist in image analysis with superior performance to that of the human eye. The focus of this review lies in intraoperative lymphadenectomy. Multiple international authorities have recommended specific numbers for lymphadenectomy in various cancers, providing surgeons with clear guidelines. These numbers are calculated by applying various statistical methods and real-world data. In the third chapter, we mention the growing concern about immune impairment caused by lymph node dissection, as the lack of CD8 memory T cells may have a negative impact on postoperative immunotherapy. Both excessive and less lymph node dissection have led to conflicting findings on postoperative immunotherapy. In conclusion, we propose a protocol that can be referenced by surgeons. With the systematic management of lymph nodes, we can control tumor progression with the greatest possible likelihood, optimize the preoperative examination process, reduce intraoperative risks, and improve postoperative quality of life.
Predictive Value of Peripheral Blood Eosinophil Count on the Efficacy of Treatment with Camrelizumab in Combination with Lenvatinib in Patients with Advanced Hepatitis B-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Xiaoxiao , Liu Haonan , Pan Di , Yao Zhiyuan , Han Zhengxiang , Qu Pengfei
Published: September 2024

Objective: To examine the effects of peripheral blood eosinophil (EOS) count and its dynamic alterations on the treatment efficacy and prognosis of patients with advanced hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC) receiving camrelizumab combined with lenvatinib (C + L) therapy. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 200 patients with advanced HBV-HCC who were admitted to two centers from January 2018 to August 2023 and treated with C + L. EOS, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were determined before C + L treatment (EOS0, NLR0, and PLR0) and after three cycles of treatment (EOS3, NLR3, and PLR3). The area under the curve was calculated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. NLR and PLR served as references to analyze the effect of differences in EOS in predicting the survival efficacy of patients with HBV-HCC treated using C + L. The independent risk factors affecting progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional risk models. Results: The ROC curve revealed that the predictive value of EOS3 was better than those of NLR3 and PLR3 for the long-term treatment efficacy of patients with intermediate and advanced HBV-HCC receiving C + L. Statistically significant differences were observed between groups with different levels of EOS0 and EOS3 and the evaluation of treatment efficacy after 3 weeks ( P < 0.05). The median PFS of the high-EOS0 group was higher than that of the low-EOS0 group ( P = 0.027); median PFS of the high EOS3 group was higher than that of the low EOS3 group ( P = 0.018); median OS of the high EOS0 group was higher than that of the low EOS0 group ( P = 0.032); median OS of the high EOS3 group was higher than that of the low EOS3 group ( P < 0.0001). Multifactorial Cox analysis revealed that EOS3 was an independent predictor of PFS and that EOS0 was an independent predictor of OS ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: EOS may be an ideal indicator for predicting the treatment efficacy and prognosis of patients with advanced HBV-HCC receiving C + L.
Identification of High-Risk Lower Extremity Wounds Using Point-of-Care Test for Bacterial Protease Activity; A Single-Centre, Single-Blinded, Prospective Study
Authors: Jonker Leon , Todhunter Jane , Mutch Rachel , Lowes Donna , Messenger Grace
Published: September 2024

Clinician observation is the mainstay to determine if wound infection is present, and focuses on presence of erythema, purulence, and odour. However, non-visible bacterial protease activity can delay wound healing and lead to complications. In this study, a point-of-care test to detect the presence of bacterial protease activity (BPA, tested with Woundchek Bacterial Status test) was appraised. A total of 130 patients with lower extremity wounds were recruited in vascular and podiatry clinics, and across two time-points 182 BPA tests were conducted subsequent to initial (blinded) clinician's wound appraisal. Clinical opinion (‘no infection’, ‘possible’ or ‘definite’ infection) and BPA result (negative or positive test) had a moderate Kendall's tau-c rank correlation coefficient of 0.32 ( P < 0.001). Binary logistic regression analysis and principal component analysis showed that infection determined by clinical opinion was significantly associated with abovementioned clinical signs and a positive BPA test. However, a positive BPA result was also significantly linked with wound severity, such as number of lesions, chronicity and size. Throughout a 12-week follow-up period, median ulcer size was larger for wounds positive for BPA test at baseline ( P 0.001) and week-12 ( P 0.036; both Mann-Whitney U-test) respectively. As a pilot initiative, clinical staff were allowed to act on the BPA result if they wished; in 11 out of 71 test-positive cases (15%) this happened and antimicrobial dressing was applied instead of planned standard dressing. These results show that protease-releasing bacteria may be active in ulcers that do not (yet) exhibit hallmark signs of infection, and are associated with delayed healing. Targeted point-of-care testing for bacterial protease activity may have the potential to identify and enable pro-active (antimicrobial) management of these high-risk wounds.
The Efficacy of Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Symptomatic Varicose Veins of Lower Limbs
Authors: Butt Muhammad A. , Avabde Dani , Cheema Muhammad U. , Raza Tilala , Latif Atif , Leechong Peter , Miah Mohammad M. R.
Published: September 2024

Background

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment for lower limb varicose veins. Studies indicate that RFA results in immediate occlusion of 90%–100% of treated long saphenous veins. Evidence suggests that post-operative scans rarely alter patient management or outcomes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the potential necessity of routine postoperative scanning in the treatment of varicose veins.

Method

Retrospective data were collected for the patients who had RFA under a single consultant from November 2015 to June 2018. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarize patient demographics, procedural details, and outcome measures.

Results

A total of 124 patients underwent radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Most of the patients (n = 114, 92%) demonstrated complete ablation, indicating a high success rate for the procedure.

Conclusion

This study suggested that routine postoperative scanning should be discontinued as this did not alter patient management in over 99% of cases. The resources currently used for postoperative scans could be redirected towards other critical areas.
I had a Hammer: Reflections on Ministry in an Acute Schizophrenia Ward
Authors: Penner Carol
Published: September 2024

This essay details the challenges of ministry in a psychiatric hospital. Using a narrative approach through the use of three case studies, the article suggests that commonly used pastoral techniques are ineffectual with people who have severe schizophrenia. The author explores the theological implications of ministry with few tools, as well as reflecting on the presence of God with those who suffer.
Utilizing Hospice for Visitation of Comatose Patients: Field Education for Pastoral Care Students
Authors: Marcia L. Howland M.R.E.
Published: September 2024

Thi article provides a reflection on how three educational organizations utilized a hospice eujng for field experience to provide spiritual care with comatose patients. It outlines how three students, who formed a collegial group, prepared for the experience, completed and documented assigned visits, summarized outcomes, and dicussed some implications for ministry with terminally ill comatose patients.
Spiritual Healing of Disrupted Childhood
Authors: James B. Gould M.A.
Published: September 2024

This essay suggests ways in which spiritual resources-healing stories, psalms of lament and reassurance, rituals, and meditative practices-can be used to foster
Psychological Implications of the Doctrine of Christian Perfection with Special Reference to John Wesley's View
Authors: Brendlinger Irv , Mueller Eric E. , Div. M.
Published: September 2024

The doctrine of Christian Perfection is viewed by some as a wonderful and liberating docutrine but by others it is seen as producing false expectations and guilt. John Wesley, the first major theologian to develop a theology of Christian Perfection, encountered misunderstandings and problems with this docutrine. He wrote and preached to correct the misunderstandings. Unfortunately, misunderstanding persist and sometimes have psychological effects on individuals. This article explore common understandings, beliefs, and experiences regarding Christian Perfection among evangelical Christians from the holiness tradition. The material was gathered by means of interviews that were recorded. The interviews were then studied by a theologian and by a clinical psychologist in order to examine how close the beliefs were to Wesley's position and what psychological implications were contained in both the beliefs and the experiences related to the belief of those interviewed.
Comparative Efficacy of Cognitive Training for Post-Stroke Aphasia: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kong Qiao , Wang Jiaqi , Huang Xing , He Junyi , Chang Jingling
Published: September 2024

Background

Although cognitive training has shown potential for treating post-stroke aphasia (PSA), its efficacy varies across studies, and the optimal training approaches remain unclear.

Objective

To evaluate and compare the effects of distinct cognitive training interventions, either combined with or independent of speech and language therapy (SLT), on language function in individuals with PSA.

Methods

A systematic search encompassing PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, VIP, and Chinese Biomedical Databases was conducted for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A network meta-analysis evaluated interventions, including computer-assisted cognitive training (CCT), conventional cognitive training (CT), virtual reality (VR)-based cognitive training (vrCT), telerehabilitation computer-assisted cognitive training (tCCT), working memory (WM) training, and attention training (AT).

Results

Eleven RCTs comprising 501 participants were included. Individuals with PSA who underwent combined WM training with SLT led to significantly enhanced Western Aphasia Battery (WAB) Aphasia Quotient (AQ), as well as in spontaneous speech, auditory comprehension, repetition, and naming, compared to those receiving SLT alone. This combination was more effective than both CCT with SLT and tCCT with SLT in improving WAB AQ. Similarly, it outperformed both CCT with SLT and vrCT with SLT in enhancing WAB spontaneous speech. Additionally, both AT and CT combined with SLT were more effective than SLT alone in enhancing WAB spontaneous speech. Specifically, AT combined with SLT proved more effective than vrCT with SLT in this area. Moreover, vrCT combined with SLT significantly improved auditory comprehension compared with SLT alone.

Conclusions

Combining WM training and SLT and integrating vrCT with SLT both significantly enhance language function in individuals with PSA, compared with SLT alone. Our findings advocate for the use of these cognitive training approaches as promising strategies for language rehabilitation in this population. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023462361.
The Stupid, the Ridiculous, the Camp: How Goat Simulator's “Messy” Design Facilitates Queer Play
Authors: Wistow Hollie
Published: September 2024

This article identifies the queer potentialities of Goat Simulator by exploring how the gameplay mechanics can be understood as “stupid” and “Camp.” Moving away from representational notions of queerness, I argue that queering a game requires an alternative way to create and play. Often, the normative method of designing a videogame prioritizes technological precision and purposeful gameplay experiences. However, Goat Simulator does not fix its errors, nor does it have a cohesive narrative, instead it incorporates brokenness and goallessness as core gameplay mechanics. Goat Simulator embraces messiness as an alternative—and arguably queer—way to design and play a videogame. I conclude by arguing the importance of brokenness and stupidity as a useful pushback against normative game design and gameplay values of precision, perfection, and seriousness.
Periareolar Incision for Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery: How to Do It?
Authors: Mayooran Nithiananthan , Vinck Eric E. , Swinnen Brian , Maessen Jos G. , Sardari Nia Peyman
Published: September 2024

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) has demonstrated its efficacy in diminishing postoperative pain, accelerating early recovery, and facilitating a prompt return to daily activities. Notably, the periareolar incision has gained prominence owing to its superior cosmesis. This article elucidates the procedural details for implementing periareolar incision access in MICS and providing insights into its technique and applications.
Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Multivessel Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sef Davorin , Thet Myat Soe , Hashim Shahrul Amry , Kikuchi Keita
Published: September 2024

Objective:

We conducted a systematic review of all available evidence on the feasibility and safety of minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting (MICS CABG) in patients with multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods:

A systematic literature search in PubMed, MEDLINE via Ovid, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed to identify all relevant studies evaluating outcomes of MICS CABG among patients with multivessel CAD and including at least 15 patients with no restriction on the publication date.

Results:

A total of 881 studies were identified, of which 26 studies met the eligibility criteria. The studies included a total of 7,556 patients. The average patient age was 63.3 years (range 49.5 to 69.0 years), male patients were an average of 77.8% (54.0% to 89.8%), and body mass index was 29.8 kg/m2 (24.5 to 30.1 kg/m2). Early mortality and stroke were on average 0.6% (range 0% to 2.0%) and 0.4% (range 0% to 1.3%), respectively. The average number of grafts was 2.8 (range 2.1 to 3.7). The average length of hospital stay was 5.6 days (range 3.1 to 9.3 days).

Conclusions:

MICS CABG appears to be a safe method in well-selected patients with multivessel CAD. This approach is concentrated at dedicated centers, and there is no widespread application, although it has potential to be widely applicable as an alternative for surgical revascularization. However, large randomized controlled studies with longer follow-up are still required to compare the outcomes with conventional CABG and other revascularization strategies.
Impella 5.5: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Valdes Carlos Alberto , Bilgili Ahmet , Reddy Akshay , Sharaf Omar , Jimenez-Contreras Fabian , Stinson Griffin , Ahmed Mustafa , Vilaro Juan , Parker Alex M. , Al-Ani Mohammad AZ , Demos Daniel , Aranda Juan , Bleiweis Mark , Beaver Thomas M. , Jeng Eric I.
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Impella 5.5 (Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA) is a temporary mechanical circulatory support device used for patients in cardiogenic shock. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the device’s clinical effectiveness, safety profile, patient outcomes, and relevant procedural considerations.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using the PubMed/MEDLINE database. The search query included articles available from October 6, 2022, through January 13, 2023. Our initial search identified 75 studies. All records were screened by 2 independent reviewers using the Covidence software for adherence to our inclusion criteria, and 8 retrospective cohort studies were identified as appropriate for inclusion.

Results:

Across the included studies, the sample size ranged from 4 to 275, with predominantly male cohorts. Indications for Impella support varied, and the duration of support ranged from 9.8 to 70 days. Overall, Impella support appeared to be associated with favorable survival rates and manageable complications in various patient populations. Complications associated with Impella use included bleeding, stroke, and device malfunctions. Two studies compared prolonged and Food and Drug Administration–approved Impella support, showing similar outcomes and adverse events.

Conclusions:

Impella 5.5 continues to be an attractive option for bridging patients to definitive therapy. Survival during and after Impella 5.5 was favorable for patients regardless of initial indication. However, device use was associated with several important complications, which calls for judicious use and a precontemplated exit strategy. Limitations of this literature review include biases inherent to the retrospective studies included, such as selection and publication bias.