bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual and reproductive health research capacity strengthening programs in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Buser Julie M. , Auma Anna Grace , August Ella , Rana Gurpreet K. , Gray Rachel , Jacobson-Davies Faelan E. , Tufa Tesfaye H. , Endale Tamrat , Mukeshimana Madeleine , Smith Yolanda R.
Published: October 2024

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) research capacity strengthening (RCS) programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are needed to foster the discovery of context-specific solutions to improve patient outcomes and population health. There remains a limited understanding of SRH research strengthening programs to raise skill sets, publications, and infrastructure and ultimately influence health policy and patient outcomes in LMICs. More information is needed to understand how SRH research is sustained after program completion. To inform efforts to implement programs that strengthen SRH research and foster sustainability, we conducted a scoping review to identify and synthesize strategies used in SRH research strengthening programs in LMICs. A literature search of nine scholarly databases was conducted. We synthesized data extracted from included articles and presented results highlighting the format, duration, and topics covered of program interventions to strengthen SRH research in LMICs. We organized information about primary outcomes into themes and summarized how SRH research capacity was sustained after program completion. Twenty-four articles were included in the scoping review. The articles generally focused on outcomes within the themes of advocacy/capacity, education, policy, project life cycle, and writing/publication. Few articles reported metrics or other evidence of long-term program sustainability of SRH RCS projects in LMICs. Results from this scoping review can be used to strengthen SRH research programs in LMICs. More energy must be directed toward correcting power imbalances in capacity strengthening initiatives. To address additional gaps, future directions for research should include an exploration of SRH research mentorship, the cost of SRH RCS interventions, and how to foster institutional support.
Experiences of trauma among persons living with psychosis in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
Authors: Ntlantsana Vuyokazi , Donda Maud B. , Maru Mihoko , Wambua Nduku G. , Chhagan Usha , Paruk Saeeda , Chiliza Bonginkosi , Ng Lauren C.
Published: October 2024

Existing literature from high-resource settings suggests that exposure to traumatic life events is associated with increased risk for psychosis. Research on how people with psychosis in South Africa perceive and make sense of their past traumatic life events is lacking. This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of persons living with psychosis in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. The study explored how individuals living with psychosis describe and conceptualize their traumatic life experiences and how it impacted them. We used a qualitative narrative research study design. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted in English and/or isiZulu with 19 adult patients with early psychosis who were receiving treatment at provincial hospitals in the eThekwini district in KZN, South Africa (mean age = 28.7±7.6, mostly male (68%) and unemployed (74%)). We analysed transcribed data using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Participants’ descriptions of traumatic life experiences included parent-child relationship disruption during their formative years and other adverse events associated with being separated from their parental figures including residential instability, financial hardship, sexual and physical abuse, and peer and community violence. Participants also described the experience of psychosis as a traumatic event. These traumatic experiences led to sense of loss for some participants, while others described post-traumatic stress symptoms including reexperiencing their trauma memories through psychotic episodes. The study provides clinical insight on the experiences of trauma among people with psychosis and highlights the need for adopting a trauma-informed service model in early psychosis care in South Africa.
Balance matters more: Research on the effect of corporate social responsibility equilibrium on stock price crash risk
Authors: Yu Siyuan , Tian Ming
Published: October 2024

The impact of the degree and effectiveness corporate social responsibility (CSR) fulfillment on corporate value assessment by investors is significant. However, prior research on effects of CSR on stock price crash risk has showed contrasting results. Certain studies suggest that an abundance of CSR can become a self-serving tool for management. This may lead to concealing and accumulating negative information, resulting in stock price collapse. Based on principal-agent theory, we suggest that CSR equilibrium could be an effective approach to prevent the concealment of negative events by managers. Employing data from Chinese A-share listed companies spanning 2010 to 2020, we examine how CSR equilibrium and corporate governance levels influence the risk of stock price collapse across entities with different property rights. Empirical findings indicate that a balanced distribution of CSR can mitigate the risk of stock price collapse. Furthermore, we find that higher levels of corporate governance can mitigate the negative impact of CSR equilibrium on stock price collapse risk. Interestingly, this governance effect is more pronounced in state-owned enterprises compared to private enterprises, where the likelihood of hiding adverse information is higher. Additionally, it provides a theoretical explanation for the impact of CSR equilibrium on the risk of stock price collapse, based on the principal-agent problem, thereby expanding the applicability of the theory. Practically, the research findings carry significant implications for listed companies, CSR rating agencies, and investors.
Optimizing microgrid performance: Strategic integration of electric vehicle charging with renewable energy and storage systems for total operation cost and emissions minimization
Authors: Aldosari Obaid , Ali Ziad M. , Abdel Aleem Shady H. E. , Mostafa Mostafa H.
Published: October 2024

At present, renewable energy sources (RESs) and electric vehicles (EVs) are presented as viable solutions to reduce operation costs and lessen the negative environmental effects of microgrids (μGs). Thus, the rising demand for EV charging and storage systems coupled with the growing penetration of various RESs has generated new obstacles to the efficient operation and administration of these μGs. In this regard, this paper introduces a multi-objective optimization model for minimizing the total operation cost of the μG and its emissions, considering the effect of battery storage system (BSS) and EV charging station load. A day-ahead scheduling model is proposed for optimal energy management (EM) of the μG investigated, which comprises photovoltaics (PVs), fuel cells (FCs), wind turbines (WTs), BSSs, and EV charging stations, with shed light on the viability and benefits of connecting BSS with EV charging stations in the μG. Analyzing three case studies depending on the objective function—Case 1: execute EM to minimize total operation cost and maximize the profits of BSS, Case 2: execute EM to minimize total emission from the μG, and Case 3: execute EM to minimize total operation cost, maximize the profits of BSS, and minimize total emissions from the μG. The main aim of the presented optimization strategy is to achieve the best possible balance between reducing expenses and lessening the environmental impact of greenhouse gas emissions. The krill herd algorithm (KHA) is used to find the optimal solutions while considering various nonlinear constraints. To demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed solution, the study utilizes the KHA and compares the obtained results with those achieved by other optimization methods. It was demonstrated that such integration significantly enhances the μG’s operational efficiency, reduces operating costs, and minimizes environmental impact. The findings underscore the viability of combining EV charging infrastructure with renewable energy to meet the increasing energy demand sustainably. The novelty of this work lies in its multi-objective optimization approach, the integration of EV charging and BSS in μGs, the comparison with other optimization methods, and the emphasis on sustainability and addressing energy demand through the utilization of renewable energy and EVs.
Impacts of resident physician unionization on house staff compensation
Authors: Tyagi Sidharth , Shah Rema J. , Huttler Joshua , Kayani Jehanzeb , Ghovanloo Mohammad-Reza , Effraim Philip R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Physicians-in-training in the United States work long hours for relatively low wages. In response to increased economic burden, the popularity of unionization in residency training programs has increased dramatically. In this study, we conducted a cross-sectional investigation of the association between unionization status and Internal Medicine PGY-1 compensation and benefits.

Methods and findings

We compiled residency salary and benefits data from all Internal Medicine residency training programs in the United States. Using a mixed effects modeling approach, we evaluated the differences in salary and total compensation while adjusting for regional factors and cost-of-living differences. In aggregate, PGY-1 salary was higher for unionized vs. non-unionized programs ($69648 vs. $62214; [95% CI 670.7–3563.7]). However, there was no difference after adjusting for cost-of-living ($62515 vs $62475; [95% CI. -1317.5, 1299.7]). Unionized programs do however offer greater monetary benefits in the form of stipend disbursements, and total compensation is higher in unionized vs. non-unionized residency programs ($65887 vs $63515; [95% CI 607.6, 3551.5]).

Conclusions

Unionized residency programs offer higher total compensation packages than their non-unionized counterparts. This increase in compensation is driven in large part by an increased variety and amount of stipend disbursement.
Cognitive and physical impact of combined exercise and cognitive intervention in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yi Qing , Liu Zuhong , Zhong Fei , Selvanayagam Victor Selvarajah , Cheong Jadeera Phaik Geok
Published: October 2024

Emerging studies have examined the effectiveness of combined exercise and cognitive intervention (combined intervention) on the cognitive function of older adults with MCI, but the conclusions remain disputed. Our study aimed to comprehensively examine the efficacy of the combined intervention on cognitive and physical function in older adults with MCI. PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and PsycINFO were retrieved to identify the relevant articles. Twelve eligible studies were included, and the results showed that combined intervention significantly improved global cognition SMD = 0.26, 95% CI [0.14-0.39], p<0.0001), executive function (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI [0.25-0.56], p < 0.00001), memory (SMD = 0.30, 95% CI [0.22-0.39], p <0.00001), and gait performance (SMD = 0.32, 95% CI [0.03-0.62], P = 0.03) compared to the control group. Combined intervention significantly improved executive function compared to single exercise intervention while not showing a statistically significant difference compared to single cognitive intervention. Moreover, no significant difference was observed between simultaneously and sequentially combined intervention. The finding indicated that combined intervention is efficacious in improving global cognition and selectively enhancing cognitive domains and physical function in older adults with MCI. More research with robust designs should be conducted, particularly involving comparisons with single interventions and different types of combined interventions.
EATME: An R package for EWMA control charts with adjustments of measurement error
Authors: Chen Li-Pang , Lin Cheng-Kuan
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we introduce an R package EATME, which is known as Exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) control chart with Adjustments To Measurement Error. The main purpose of this package is to correct for measurement error effects in continuous or binary random variables and develop the corrected control charts based on the EWMA statistic. In addition, the corrected control charts can detect out-of-control process accurately. The package contains a function to generate synthetic data and includes functions to determine the reasonable coefficient of control limit as well as estimate average run length. Moreover, for the visualization, we also provide the control charts to show the monitoring of in-control and out-of-control process. Finally, the functions in this package are clearly demonstrated, and numerical studies show the validity of the package.
A short version of the Alcohol Consumption Consequences Evaluation Scale (ACCE10)
Authors: Sancerni-Beitia María-Dolores , Motos-Sellés Patricia , Giménez-Costa José-Antonio , Cortés-Tomás María-Teresa
Published: October 2024

A brief version of the Alcohol Consumption Consequences Evaluation Scale (ACCE) [38] was developed to promptly detect possible risks related to alcohol consumption, such as Binge Drinking (BD), in university students. Using the "snowball" method, a sample of 595 students aged 18 to 20 (65.4% women) from the University of Valencia (Spain) was obtained during the 2019–2020 academic year. Items with the highest values of the discrimination parameter in the original version (ACCE) were selected and the Rasch model was applied. To verify the usefulness of this version, ROC analyses were conducted separately for men and women using the Audit score as the criterion. In the overall sample, the analysis had an area of 0.812 (SE = 0.018). In men, the area was 0.796 (SE = 0.032) and for women, it was 0.823 (SE = 0.021). In addition, a logistic regression analysis was performed, using a cut-off point of 3 based on the ROC analysis, to assess the utility of this version in classifying BD and non-BD. The odds ratio was 3.812 (p = 0.000), correctly classifying 89.2% of the young people and indicating that the probability of engaging in BD is 3.8 times higher for individuals obtaining more than 3 points on this scale. This result confirms the usefulness of this brief version (ACCE10) as a screening tool for early intervention, especially in clinical or university settings, since it allows young people to be situated within a range of severity according to their consumption patterns. Furthermore, it may help stop the progression of the addictive process, create awareness of the need for change, and facilitate access to the most suitable interventions.
The experiences and decision making of patients with incurable cancer and health literacy difficulties
Authors: Holden Chloe E. , Wagland Richard , Harle Amélie , Wheelwright Sally
Published: October 2024

Objective

Shared decision making is important when decisions are preference sensitive, as in incurable cancer. A prerequisite for shared decision making is health literacy, which is essential to facilitate good understanding of an individual’s current situation, the decision to be made, and the options available to them. This study sought to learn about the challenges for shared decision making faced by patients with incurable cancer and health literacy difficulties.

Methods

Semi-structured telephone and video interviews were used to collect data on participants’ experiences, decision making, and challenges faced. Study procedures followed health literacy principles, with information offered in various formats to suit individuals’ preferences, the use of a verbal consent process, and flexibility in whether interviews were conducted over telephone or video call. Data were analysed using Framework Analysis (Ritchie et al. 2003), with initial verbatim transcription of interviews, iterative development of the analysis framework, indexing using Nvivo 12 software and summarising of the data before systematic categorisation and development of final themes.

Results

Twenty participants (aged 31–80, of whom 13 male) with a variety of cancers (including breast, central nervous system, gastrointestinal, gynaecological, lung, head and neck, and urological) and experience of a range of treatments were interviewed. Seven themes were identified, including: supportive staff in an imperfect system, additional pressure from COVID-19, in the expert’s hands, treatment not so bad, emotional hurdles, accessing information to further understanding and wanting to be a good patient.

Conclusion

In order to support patients with incurable cancer and health literacy difficulties to become involved in decisions about their care, we must address the emotional, social and informational challenges they face. Recommendations for achieving this include addressing peoples’ emotional needs, facilitating control over information, developing a partnership, involving others, and organisational changes.
Optimization on overall performance of Modified Ultrafine Cementitious Grout Materials (MUCG) and hydration mechanism analysis
Authors: Zhou Junxia , Zha Lanchang , Meng Shiyu , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2024

Given the challenges encountered in injecting grout into micro-cracked rock masses, a modified ultrafine cementitious grout material (MUCG) was developed using ultrafine cement, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers, and a high-efficiency superplasticizer. To identify the optimal ratio of constituents for grouting these rock masses, extreme difference and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted based on test results of flowability and mechanical properties. A mix comprising 9% silica fume, 0.2% bentonite, 0.3% PVA fibers, 0.15% superplasticizer, and 2% setting accelerator was identified as the optimal mix. The microstructure characteristics of the optimal MUCG (MUCGop) grout cemented body were analyzed using XRD, FTIR, BET, and SEM. XRD and FTIR analyses indicated that a substantial amount of C-(A)S-H gel, CH, and AFt were formed within the first 3 days, highlighting the early strength characteristics of MUCGop. Over time, the content of C-A-H stabilized at 22%, the amount of CH decreased from 19% to 14%, whereas the amount of AFt increased to 15.9% by Day 28. Unexpectedly, CaCO3 content increased due to carbonation, reaching 37.3% by Day 28. BET and SEM analyses demonstrated that the specific surface area and porosity (most probable pore size) gradually decreased over time. At various ages, mesopores (cumulative pore diameter, median pore diameter) initially increased and then decreased. Micro-cracks appeared in the cemented body by Day 7, resulting in a slight decrease in strength (3.92%) from Day 3 to Day 7. The formation of well-developed needle-like AFt, C-(A)S-H gel, and small-volume plate-like CH contributed to uniform cementation and a denser structure. From Day 7 to Day 28, there was a slight increase in strength, by an amount of 10.66%. These findings have significant scientific implications for understanding the mechanisms of grouting reinforcement in micro-cracked rock masses.
Availability, price and affordability of insulin, delivery devices and self-monitoring blood glucose devices in Indonesia
Authors: Ramadaniati Hesty Utami , Anggriani Yusi , Lepeska Molly , Beran David , Ewen Margaret
Published: October 2024

Insulin is essential for the survival of people with type 1 diabetes and for better management of people with type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes using insulin also require self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) devices (e.g., meters, strips, continuous monitoring systems) for day-to-day management. It is essential to ensure that insulin and these devices are available and affordable. This study aimed to evaluate the availability, price, and affordability of insulin and SMBG devices in Indonesia using an adaptation of the World Health Organization/Health Action International (WHO/HAI) price survey. A total of 34 public health facilities (hospitals, primary healthcare centres/Puskesmas) and 37 private pharmacies were sampled. Information from three major online marketplaces was also collected. Prices were expressed as median patient prices (US$). Affordability was defined as the number of days’ wages needed by the lowest paid unskilled government worker (LPGW) to purchase 30 days’ supply of insulin, delivery devices and SMBGs. Availability of analogue insulin was slightly higher in public facilities (63.6%) than in the private sector (43.2%), with no human insulin available in both sectors. Conversely, better availability was observed in private facilities for SMBG devices as public sector facilities did not supply devices for self-testing. Median prices for 1000IU analogues varied between the public sector (US$ 5.26) and the private sector (US$11.24). The highest median price of analogues was seen in online marketplaces (US$ 28.65). The least costly median price of SMBG devices were observed in online platforms (meter: US$ 18.37, test strip: US$ 0.27, lancet: US$ 0.02). A low-income person had to work 2–3 days to buy 1000IU of analogues. It required 5–7 days’ and 4–5 day’s wages to purchase a meter and a month’s supply of test strips, respectively. The availability and affordability of insulin and SMBG devices remain important issues in Indonesia requiring holistic approaches for further improvement.
Dynamic dissipative control for fuzzy distributed parameter cyber physical system under input quantization and DoS attack
Authors: Chen Jingzhao , Ding Liming , Li Tengfei
Published: October 2024

This article explores the dissipative control for a class of nonlinear DP-CPS (distributed parameter cyber physical system) within a finite-time interval. By utilizing a Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy model to represent the system’s nonlinear aspects, the studied system is formulated as a class of fuzzy parabolic partial differential equation (PDE). In order to optimize network resources, both the system state and input signal are subjected to quantization using dynamic quantizers. Subsequently, a dynamic state control strategy is proposed, taking into account potential DoS attack. The finite-time boundedness of the fuzzy parabolic PDE is analyzed, with respect to the influence of quantization, through the construction of an appropriate Lyapunov functional. The article then presents the conditions for finite-time dissipative control design, alongside the adjustment parameters for the dynamic quantizers within the fuzzy closed-loop system. Furthermore, the decoupling of interlinked nonlinear terms in the control design conditions is achieved by using an arbitrary matrix. Finally, an example is provided and the simulation results indicate the effectiveness of the dissipative control method proposed.
Panel of serum biomarkers for differential diagnosis of idiopathic interstitial lung disease and interstitial lung disease-secondary to systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease
Authors: d’Alessandro Miriana , Cameli Paolo , Cotton Caroline V. , Lamb Janine A. , Bergantini Laura , Gangi Sara , Sugden Sarah , Spencer Lisa G. , Frediani Bruno , New Robert P. , Chinoy Hector , Bargagli Elena , Conticini Edoardo
Published: October 2024

Background

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) may complicate the course of systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARD) and diagnostic biomarkers are needed. Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6), ferritin (FER) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) have been involved in the ILD development. Our study aimed to compare KL-6, FER, IL-6 and soluble mesothelin-related peptide (SMRP) concentrations in a cohort of idiopathic and SARD-ILD.

Methods

3169 patients were enrolled in the “UK Biomarkers in Interstitial Lung Disease (UK-BILD) Study”. We selected patients affected by SARD-ILD and idiopathic ILD (usual interstitial pneumonia-idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and fibrotic non-specific interstitial pneumonia). Serum marker concentrations were measured through chemiluminescent assays (Fujirebio Europe, Ghent, Belgium).

Results

1013 patients were selected for the study: 520 (51.3%) had idiopathic ILD and 493 (48.7%) SARD-ILD. Idiopathic ILD patients displayed higher KL-6 values than SARD-ILD (p = 0.0002). FER and SMRP, though within normal ranges, were significantly higher in idiopathic ILD (p<0.0001). Logistic regression showed good sensitivity (69.4%) and specificity (80.4%) selecting the variables FER and KL-6 concentrations, age and gender-male correlated with a diagnosis of idiopathic ILD.

Conclusion

Our study showed the excellent diagnostic value of KL-6 for detecting ILD, which irrespective of the final diagnosis and extent of disease, is always elevated and is a reliable biomarker of lung fibrosis in various diseases, ranging from idiopathic to autoimmune forms. Our study proposed an ILD differentiation model including clinical background. In this context, combination of serum markers and clinical data, as seen in our cohort, may lead to a further improvement in diagnostic accuracy for ILD.
Visual outcomes of primary keratoprosthesis implantation in transplant-naïve eyes
Authors: Thompson Camryn , Robbins Cason , Gabriel Rami , Wisely C. Ellis , Daluvoy Melissa , Fekrat Sharon
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Primary keratoprosthesis (Kpro) implantation may be indicated in eyes that have an expected poor prognosis following initial penetrating keratoplasty, such as eyes with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). We compare visual outcomes of eyes undergoing primary Kpro to eyes that had a secondary Kpro following penetrating keratoplasty.

Methods

Retrospective review of all patients who had Kpro implantation at a tertiary academic medical center from 2005–2020. Among those, eyes that had undergone primary Kpro implantation without a history of prior corneal transplantation were also identified.

Results

Eighty-four eyes of 77 patients that had undergone Kpro implantation were identified. Of those 84, 12 eyes (21.4%) of 12 patients were receiving primary Kpro since they were corneal transplant-naïve. Among individuals undergoing primary Kpro implantation compared to secondary Kpro implantation, the most common underlying diagnoses were limbal stem cell deficiency (41.7% vs 10.0%, p = 0.01304), corneal scarring not otherwise specified (25.0% vs 2.86%, p = 0.02077), and neurotrophic cornea (16.7% vs 2.86%, p = 0.1002). Eyes undergoing primary Kpro implantation had similar mean visual acuity to eyes undergoing secondary Kpro preoperatively (20/2118 vs 20/3786, p = 0.271), 3 months postoperatively (20/264 vs 20/758, p = 0.174), and at final follow up (average 3.06 years, 20/907 vs 20/3446, p = 0.070). Average follow-up time and rates of glaucoma, endophthalmitis, retroprosthetic membrane, and retinal detachment did not significantly differ between groups (all p > 0.05). All eyes that progressed to no light perception (n = 13) had undergone secondary Kpro implantation.

Conclusions

Visual acuity outcomes were similar between primary Kpro implantation and secondary Kpro implantation. Eyes that underwent primary Kpro implantation trended toward better postoperative VA at final follow-up than secondary Kpro eyes.
An application of node and edge nonlinear hypergraph centrality to a protein complex hypernetwork
Authors: Lawson Sarah , Donovan Diane , Lefevre James
Published: October 2024

The use of graph centrality measures applied to biological networks, such as protein interaction networks, underpins much research into identifying key players within biological processes. This approach however is restricted to dyadic interactions and it is well-known that in many instances interactions are polyadic. In this study we illustrate the merit of using hypergraph centrality applied to a hypernetwork as an alternative. Specifically, we review and propose an extension to a recently introduced node and edge nonlinear hypergraph centrality model which provides mutually dependent node and edge centralities. A Saccharomyces Cerevisiae protein complex hypernetwork is used as an example application with nodes representing proteins and hyperedges representing protein complexes. The resulting rankings of the nodes and edges are considered to see if they provide insight into the essentiality of the proteins and complexes. We find that certain variations of the model predict essentiality more accurately and that the degree-based variation illustrates that the centrality-lethality rule extends to a hypergraph setting. In particular, through exploitation of the models flexibility, we identify small sets of proteins densely populated with essential proteins. One of the key advantages of applying this model to a protein complex hypernetwork is that it also provides a classification method for protein complexes, unlike previous approaches which are only concerned with classifying proteins.
“It’s not just about you”: International students’ vulnerabilities and capacities during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada
Authors: Khalid Ayisha , Naidu Jessica , Turin Tanvir C.
Published: October 2024

In Canada, the COVID-19 pandemic was initially characterized by emergency government responses that disrupted daily life, especially for marginalized groups. This study explored the vulnerabilities and capacities of international students studying at a university in Calgary, Canada during the first phase of the pandemic. Guided by the Capacities and Vulnerabilities Analysis framework, we thematically analyzed 11 semi-structured interviews with international students. We found that material vulnerabilities included balancing finances, housing conditions, lack of information, food inaccessibility, reliance on public transport, and poor mental health, social vulnerabilities included lack of social support, culture shock, and racism, and attitudinal vulnerabilities included “nowhere to go”, feeling like a burden, and perception of Canada as safe. Material capacities included financial support, knowledge about pandemic, and mental health supports, social capacities included local social support and multilingualism, and attitudinal capacities included resilience, religious and spiritual beliefs, “it’s not just about you”, and reflexivity. We found overlapping and complex relationships between vulnerabilities and capacities, indicating that while international students’ vulnerabilities were exacerbated and introduced challenges during the pandemic, students uniquely leveraged their capacities to offset and recover from challenges. Findings from this study may be informative for stakeholders involved in disaster responses, especially universities and governments, to support international students’ capacities and address their vulnerabilities.
Factors associated with sexual violence against reproductive-age women in Ghana: A multilevel mixed-effects analysis
Authors: Mekuria Negussie Yohannes , Abrham Asnake Angwach , Alamrie Asmare Zufan , Melak Fente Bezawit , Melkam Mamaru , Melaku Bezie Meklit , Atlaye Asebe Hiwot , Lemma Seifu Beminate
Published: October 2024

Background

Sexual violence against women is a pervasive public health challenge and human rights violation, with global prevalence rates of approximately one in three women affected, notably prevalent in African countries. Understanding its multifaceted determinants is crucial for developing targeted intervention strategies. Thus, this study aimed to investigate factors associated with sexual violence against reproductive-age ever-married women in Ghana.

Methods

A weighted sample of 3,816 reproductive-age ever-married women from the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) was included. To accommodate the hierarchical nature of the DHS data and the binary outcome variable ‘sexual violence’, a multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression model was employed. The deviance value was utilized for selecting the best-fitted model. In the multivariable multilevel binary logistic regression analysis, adjusted odds ratios (AORs) along with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were utilized to gauge the association strength, with statistical significance set at a p-value < 0.05.

Result

The prevalence of sexual violence was found to be 8.80% (95% CI: 7.94–9.74). Factors positively associated with sexual violence included women’s decision-making autonomy (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.08–1.74), husband/partner’s alcohol consumption (AOR = 3.88, 95% CI: 2.98–5.06), sex of household head (AOR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.02–1.68), and justification of beating (AOR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.01–1.81). Conversely, women’s age showed a negative association with sexual violence (AOR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.48–0.98).

Conclusion

In conclusion, prioritizing initiatives that empower women in decision-making roles, provide support for those struggling with alcohol consumption, and raise awareness about its impact on interpersonal relationships and the risk of sexual violence is essential. Furthermore, addressing harmful gender norms, particularly those justifying violence, and considering demographic characteristics are vital components of comprehensive strategies to prevent and mitigate sexual violence.
The five homologous CiaR-controlled Ccn sRNAs of Streptococcus pneumoniae modulate Zn-resistance
Authors: De Lay Nicholas R. , Verma Nidhi , Sinha Dhriti , Garrett Abigail , Osterberg Maximillian K. , Porter Daisy , Reiling Spencer , Giedroc David P. , Winkler Malcolm E.
Published: October 2024

Zinc is a vital transition metal for all bacteria; however, elevated intracellular free Zn levels can result in mis-metalation of Mn-dependent enzymes. For Mn-centric bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae that primarily use Mn instead of Fe as an enzyme cofactor, Zn is particularly toxic at high concentrations. Here, we report our identification and characterization of the function of the five homologous, CiaRH-regulated Ccn sRNAs in controlling S. pneumoniae virulence and metal homeostasis. We show that deletion of all five ccn genes (ccnA, ccnB, ccnC, ccnD, and ccnE) from S. pneumoniae strains D39 (serotype 2) and TIGR4 (serotype 4) causes Zn hypersensitivity and an attenuation of virulence in a murine invasive pneumonia model. We provide evidence that bioavailable Zn disproportionately increases in S. pneumoniae strains lacking the five ccn genes. Consistent with a response to Zn intoxication or relatively high intracellular free Zn levels, expression of genes encoding the CzcD Zn exporter and the Mn-independent ribonucleotide reductase, NrdD-NrdG, were increased in the ΔccnABCDE mutant relative to its isogenic ccn+ parent strain. The growth inhibition by Zn that occurs as the result of loss of the ccn genes is rescued by supplementation with Mn or Oxyrase, a reagent that removes dissolved oxygen. Lastly, we found that the Zn-dependent growth inhibition of the ΔccnABCDE strain was not altered by deletion of sodA, whereas the ccn+ ΔsodA strain phenocopied the ΔccnABCDE strain. Overall, our results indicate that the Ccn sRNAs have a crucial role in preventing Zn intoxication in S. pneumoniae.
Deciphering citizenship education in Asian contexts: discourse, practice and politics
Authors: Chen Sicong
Published: October 2024

Seeing citizenship education as discourse, this Special Issue ‘Deciphering Citizenship Education in Asian Contexts: Discourse, Practice and Politics’ explores the discursive construction of internationally recognizable citizenship education rhetorics in different Asian contexts. The topics of the openly solicited articles suggest that in the call to examine citizenship education rhetoric and discourse in Asia, national citizenship remains a main concern, while participatory or active citizenship draws increased attention. While only presenting a few cases, the Special Issue raises the need to scratch beneath the rhetorical surface and examine citizenship education as a discourse that bears out societal power relations and politics and has consequences for practical teaching and learning in diverse Asian societies.
Social studies and citizenship education in Singapore: Towards a progressive orientation
Authors: Sim Jasmine B.-Y. , Kho Ee Moi
Published: October 2024

Citizenship education is essential for the continued existence of a society. The purposes of and approach towards citizenship education vary from country to country. In Singapore, social studies is an important school subject used for citizenship education. This article traces the development of social studies in Singapore and shows how, for many years, social studies was conservative, aimed at cultural transmission and preservation of the status quo. The goal was the development of moral, law-abiding and patriotic citizens. With the challenges of globalization, rapid technological advancements and changing demands of the economy, there is recognition of the need to develop citizens who are more informed, thinking and capable of social reformation. Towards the end of the millennium, citizenship education through social studies began to shift towards a more progressive orientation. We question the extent and nature of this shift and highlight the tensions.
Active citizenship in Japan: How do Japanese citizenship teachers perceive participation in society?
Authors: Hosoda Chika
Published: October 2024

This study addresses the two questions: ‘How do Japanese civics teachers perceive participation in society?’ and ‘What are the factors that influence their views on participation in society?’ For this purpose, active citizenship in this article is defined as participation in society including voting, political activism and community involvement. The dataset for this study consists of semi-structured interviews with eleven secondary school civics teachers from different parts of Japan. Participating teachers were asked about citizenship ideals in terms of identity, civic virtue, political involvement and requirement for democratic society. Results of thematic analysis suggest that the Japanese civics teachers were reluctant to participate in protests and demonstrations. Instead, actively seeking information about causes of protests and being critical about government policies are suggested as alternative approaches. Illustrating Japanese civics teachers’ perception of active citizenship for young people based on the findings from interview data, this article contributes to further understanding the conceptual diversity of active citizenship in terms of political, cultural and social contexts. Possible reasons why protesting is not a preferable option are also considered.
Nation building, citizenship education and ethnic minorities in Chinese textbooks
Authors: Yan Fei , Jackson Liz
Published: October 2024

Citizenship education is often assigned a role in nation building as it attempts in part to bridge social divisions within society and foster a more unified national identity. As an element of citizenship education, teaching about ethnic minorities is an imperative to achieve this aim. This article examines how ethnic minorities in China are represented in recent primary and secondary textbooks for political and civic subjects, focusing on the nature of state–minority interrelations. We find that textbooks frame ethnic minorities as patriotic Chinese citizens while legitimizing Chinese rule over them. These findings expand on the past literature emphasizing unequal Han–minority relationships and shed light on how diversity is negotiated and formulated in civic education in a non-western society.
Research on Global Citizenship Education in Asia: Conceptions, Perceptions, and Practice, Theresa Alviar-Martin and Mark C. Baildon (2021)
Authors: Chen Sicong
Published: October 2024

Review of: Research on Global Citizenship Education in Asia: Conceptions, Perceptions, and Practice, Theresa Alviar-Martin and Mark C. Baildon (2021)

Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, 243 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-64802-323-1, p/bk, $45.04
Energy Kingdoms: Oil and Political Survival in the Persian Gulf, Jim Krane (2019)
Authors: Matsuda Kazuto
Published: October 2024

Review of: Energy Kingdoms: Oil and Political Survival in the Persian Gulf, Jim Krane (2019)

New York: Columbia University Press, 224 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-23117-930-0, h/bk, $34.00
Editorial
Authors: Zweiri Mahjoob
Published: October 2024

This introduction outlines the publishing objectives of the Journal of Gulf Studies, emphasizing the invitation for contributions on Gulf studies in an interdisciplinary context. It emphasizes how the journal seeks to go beyond traditional analysis of the Gulf region and its interactions with the wider Middle East and global community. It also underscores how the journal endeavours to create a unique academic platform that matches the growing developments in the Gulf, as well as the growing interest in the region. Lastly, the introduction outlines the articles in the inaugural issue ranging from such topics as the Gulf foreign policies, Gulf studies in India, the historical role of scent and perfumery and finally education in the Gulf.
Israel, a Fortaleza Sitiada
Authors: San‑ Bento José
Published: October 2024

Este ensaio percorre sumariamente a história do Estado de Israel e salienta o facto de esta ser marcada por uma constante luta contra vizinhos hostis. Israel prevaleceu devido a opções de natureza geopolítica que lhe asseguraram várias vitórias militares e a viabilidade do seu Estado, mas que não sanou a necessidade de acomodação e conciliação com a causa palestiniana. A profunda rivalidade hostil entre uma fação minoritária e radical palestiniana e Israel é uma ameaça à paz no Médio Oriente e à estabilidade da Ordem Mundial. O texto termina com uma caraterização da legitimidade no subsistema internacional do Médio Oriente e com um possível roteiro para a Paz.
Álvaro Vasconcelos: Amizade Antiga
Authors: D’Oliveira Martins Guilherme
Published: October 2024

A democracia é um sistema de valores centrado no respeito pela dignidade humana – com todas as suas consequências. Os tempos evoluíram, o otimismo de Samuel Huntington, ao dizer que a terceira vaga das democracias se iniciou com a Revolução portuguesa de 1974, voltou a desvanecer‑se nos últimos anos com a redução do número de Estados democráticos, mas a determinação dos defensores dos direitos humanos não perdeu entusiasmo. Daí a necessidade de mobilizarmos novas vontades.
A Europa e o projeto realista: Clima Património Comum para restaurar o sistema climático
Authors: Magalhães Paulo
Published: October 2024

As alterações climáticas são essencialmente um problema de excesso de GEE na atmosfera. Na análise das responsabilidades por emissões históricas, existe uma teoria baseada nos danos causados, de difícil apuramento e aplicação. Se somarmos todos os custos e benefícios da não ação climática, está a chegar‑se a um ponto em que os custos superam os benefícios. Neste cenário, a teoria de responsabilidade pela utilização excessiva, que pressupõe reconhecer o clima como Património Comum, abre a possibilidade do restauro do sistema climático e limpeza da atmosfera. Um projeto que por razões históricas de interesse egoístico e global, deveria ser coordenado e incentivado pela Europa.
A farmácia e o medicamento de uso humano em Portugal nos últimos 40 anos: influências da adesão à União Europeia
Authors: Pita João Rui
Published: October 2024

Neste artigo o autor dá a conhecer algumas das principais modificações estruturais que se verificaram em Portugal na farmácia e no medicamento após a integração na União Europeia, em 1986. Em 2024 passam, grosso modo, quase quatro décadas sobre a integração de Portugal na Europa da farmácia e do medicamento. O autor refere e analisa criticamente algumas das principais modificações registadas nos últimos 40 anos e a influência que a adesão de Portugal à União Europeia teve na farmácia e no medicamento em Portugal.
Contactos de Unamuno con el arte pictórico. La restauración de sus dos cuadros de Escenas vascas
Authors: Rivas San Román Natalia , Del Barrio Luna Alejandra , Azofra Agustín Eduardo
Published: October 2024

Este artículo tiene como objetivo ahondar en la carrera artística del escritor de la generación del 98 don Miguel de Unamuno, partiendo de dos de sus obras pintadas en su juventud como aprendiz en el estudio de Antonio de Lecuona; en concreto, Escenas vascas. Es un estudio realizado a partir de la restauración efectuada de las obras expuestas en la Casa-Museo Unamuno en Salamanca en los meses de junio y julio de 2022 por Alejandra del Barrio Luna. Además, se analiza su actividad dibujística durante toda su vida y su concepción en cuanto al arte contemporáneo. Observaremos sus relaciones con otros artistas del panorama vasco del momento y su contexto sociocultural e histórico-artístico.
Metáforas de lo eterno. Unamuno: los retratos y la relación con los artistas de su época
Authors: García Gasco Marta
Published: October 2024

Este estudio pasa revista a la tarea de localizar e identificar los distintos retratos de Miguel de Unamuno existentes, centrándose exclusivamente en aquellos realizados en vida del literato por los diferentes artistas de su generación.
Impacts of biodiversity and carbon policies on the management of Norwegian forest and its ecosystem services
Authors:   Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Applied Ecology, Agricultural Sciences and Biotechnology, P.O. Box 2400, Koppang, Norway, López Lucas N. , Sjølie Hanne K. , Nabhani Abbas , Aguilar Francisco X.
Published: October 2024

Measures to enhance boreal forests’ biodiversity and climate change mitigation potential are high on the policy agenda. Site productivity influences management, ecological attributes, and economic outcomes. However, national-level analyses of management implementation in response to policies considering site productivity are lacking. We analyzed impacts of a carbon policy (Carb), a biodiversity policy (Bio) and a combined biodiversity and carbon policy (BioCarb) in Norway using a simulation-optimization framework, assessing impacts on forest management, timber harvest, ecological attributes, and carbon fluxes until year 2140. Management alternatives were simulated in the single-tree simulator TreeSim before being fed into a market model NorFor to compare policy outcomes to a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario. All policies led to decreased harvests. Old forests expanded from the current 3% to cover 21% or more of the productive forest area in all scenarios. Impacts of policies depended on site productivity. On low-productive land, management under Bio mirrored BAU, while the Carb and BioCarb policies yielded more set-asides. On high-productive land, management intensity under the Carb policy was similar to BAU but the Bio and BioCarb policies resulted in more set-asides and more old forest. Thus, on low-productive land, the carbon policy showed to have the strongest impact on forest management, while on high-productive land, the biodiversity policy had the strongest impact. With geographical site-productivity gradients, the two policies exhibited different regional effects. The study shows that ex-ante analyses with appropriate tools can provide relevant information of multiple consequences beyond the stated aims which should be considered in policy design.