bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A theoretical conceptualisation of connection to culture in Australian First Peoples children
Authors: Henderson (Wiradjuri) Leah , Hawkins Erinn , Corporal (Eastern Arrernte) Stephen , Graham (Kombumerri, Minjungbal, Wakka Wakka) John , Kruger (Kombumerri (Yugambeh), Ngugi (Quandamooka) Candace , Marshall (Eastern, Aranda Warluwarra) Alex , Marshall (Alyawarre, Kalkadoon) Joan , West (Kalkadoon) Karen , Shanley Dianne C
Published: March 2024

Connection to culture in Australian First Peoples children is an important social determinant of health in child development and wellbeing. The current study draws upon the collective knowledge of Australian First Peoples Elders and community leaders to collaboratively develop the first theoretical conceptualisation of connection to culture in Australian First Peoples children. Through participatory action research, we integrated both Western and Indigenist methodologies. One-on-one qualitative narrative interviews were conducted with six Australian First Peoples Elders and community leaders. Their knowledge was summarised through a process of Western thematic analysis and Indigenist arts-based participatory analysis to identify core concepts and mechanisms of connection to culture in First Peoples children. The outcome was a theory of connection to culture in Australian First Peoples children. By better understanding how children connect to culture, we can better support children in connecting to culture, targeting an important factor of health and wellbeing.
Awake craniotomies in South America: Advancements, challenges, and future prospects
Authors: Bharadwaj Hareesha R. , Awuah Wireko A. , Adebusoye Favour T. , Tan Joecelyn K. , Ali Syed H. , Pacheco-Barrios Niels , Papadakis Marios
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND: Awake craniotomy has emerged as an advanced surgical technique, characterized by keeping the patient awake during brain surgery. In South America, awake craniotomies have grained traction in neurosurgical practices across various medical centres and hospitals, with notable practitioners contributing to its growth and refinement in the region.

PURPOSE: This study aims to explore the integration and impact of awake craniotomies in South American neurosurgical practices. The focus is on understanding the benefits, challenges, and potential transformative effects of the procedure in the region.

RESEARCH DESIGN: A comprehensive narrative review and analysis through a thorough examination of the existing literature.

RESULTS: The findings indicate that awake craniotomies in South America offer substantial benefits, including cost savings thorugh reduced hospitalization time, quicker recovery and decreased morbidity. Enhanced safety, effective pain management and reduced anaesthesia also contribute to this.

CONCLUSION: Whilst the adaptation of awake craniotomies in South America holds great promise in transforming neurosurgical care in the region, significant challenges hinder its widespread adoption. Inadequate infrastructure, limited access to equipment, financial instability, and shortages in trained healthcare providers represent challenges that need to be addressed.
Shadowing and gendered fieldwork roles in the Brussels Bubble
Authors: Mikkonen Salla , Miller Cherry
Published: March 2024

This article contributes to wider methodological discussions about gender and undertaking fieldwork in and around European Union institutions, by focusing on shadowing as a particular ethnographic practice and the performance of gendered roles in fieldwork. The article is based on two ethnographic research projects and 16 shadowing placements, which were conducted in and around European Union institutions (2018–2020). As co-authors, we reflect on what our respective shadowing experiences reveal about gendered roles in fieldwork and how these are performed in the ‘Brussels Bubble’. We show how the fieldwork roles emerged at different stages of shadowing, how we performed them dynamically and what they reveal about gendered micropolitics in the ‘Brussels Bubble’. We call on researchers to be intentionally reflexive when doing shadowing as part of their fieldwork, to avoid uncritically performing the types of gendered roles that typically emerge within institutional settings and interpersonal relations.
Serum neurofilament light for detecting disease activity in individual patients in multiple sclerosis: A 48-week prospective single-center study
Authors: Johnsson M , Stenberg YT , Farman HH , Blennow K , Zetterberg H , Malmeström C , Sandgren S , Rosenstein I , Lycke J , Axelsson M , Novakova L
Published: March 2024

Background:

Serum neurofilament light (sNfL) reflects neuroaxonal damage and is now used as an outcome in treatment trials of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). However, the diagnostic properties of sNfL for monitoring disease activity in individual patients warrant further investigations.

Method:

Patients with suspected relapse and/or contrast-enhancing lesions (CELs) were consecutively included and performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain at baseline and weeks 28 and 48. Serum was obtained at baseline and 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, and 48 weeks. Neurofilament light concentration was measured using Single molecule array technology.

Results:

We included 44 patients, 40 with RRMS and 4 with clinically isolated syndrome. The median sNfL level peaked at 2 weeks post-baseline (14.6 ng/L, interquartile range (IQR); 9.3–31.6) and reached nadir at 48 weeks (9.1 ng/L, IQR; 5.5–15.0), equivalent to the median sNfL of controls (9.1 ng/L, IQR; 7.4–12). A baseline Z-score of more than 1.1 (area under the curve; 0.78, p < 0.0001) had a sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 70% to detect disease activity.

Conclusion:

One out of five patients with relapse and/or CELs did not change significantly in post-baseline sNfL levels. The utility of repeated sNfL measurements to monitor disease activity is complementary rather than a substitute for clinical and MRI measures.
What might an interactive music therapy service bring to the adult intensive care unit? A suggested service based on data from a scoping review
Authors: Street Alex , Jaschke Artur C
Published: March 2024

Individual music listening in intensive care units (ICU) has more frequently reported benefits for reducing anxiety and pain. There may be benefits in reducing heart rate and respiratory rate. There is a lack of research in the ICU setting that examines the effects of active music-based interventions, for example, where patients play instruments as part of structured exercises for cognitive or physical rehabilitation or improvise music with a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered Music Therapist in ways that may benefit emotional well-being in addition to physical and cognitive function, including management of deconditioning.

The search string of the present scoping review was used on 25 January 2022 and then again for PubMed on 24 June 2023 and brought up any research using music or music therapy in the intensive care setting. Out of 139 titles, 45 full texts were included, with a total of 3,441 participants. Forty-three studies meeting the inclusion criteria used pre-recorded music, ranging from cassette to CDs, audio files, and MP3, most often delivered using headphones, some with audio pillows. All interventions were passive (listening) except for one, which delivered music played live. More research is needed into the workings of active and receptive music therapy in the adult ICU.
Long-term care use, hospitalizations and mortality during COVID-19 in Finland and Sweden: A nationwide register-based study in 2020
Authors: Blotière Pierre-Olivier , Maura Géric , Raitanen Jani , Pulkki Jutta , Forma Leena , Johnell Kristina , Aaltonen Mari , Wastesson Jonas W.
Published: March 2024

Aim:

To describe long-term care (LTC) use in Finland and Sweden in 2020, by reporting residential entry and exit patterns including hospital admissions and mortality, compared with the 2018–2019 period and community-living individuals.

Methods:

From national registers in Finland and Sweden, all individuals 70+ were included. Using the Finnish and Swedish study populations in January 2018 as the standard population, we reported changes in sex- and age-standardized monthly rates of entry into and exit from LTC facilities, mortality and hospital admission among LTC residents and community-living individuals in 2020.

Results:

Around 850,000 Finns and 1.4 million Swedes 70+ were included. LTC use decreased in both countries from 2018 to 2020. In the first wave (March/April 2020), Finland experienced a decrease in LTC entry rates and an increase in LTC exit rates, both more marked than Sweden. This was largely due to short-term movements. Mortality rates peaked in April and December 2020 for LTC residents in Finland, while mortality peaked for both community-living individuals and LTC residents in Sweden. A decrease in hospital admissions from LTC facilities occurred in April 2020 and was less marked in Finland versus Sweden.

Conclusions:

During the first wave of the pandemic mortality was consistently higher in Sweden. We also found a larger decrease in LTC use and, among LTC residents, a smaller decrease in hospital admissions in Finland than in Sweden. This study calls for assessing the health consequences of the differences observed between these two Scandinavian countries as part of the lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trauma-informed care for women who are forced migrants: a qualitative study among service providers
Authors: Jolof Linda , Rocca Patricia , Carlsson Tommy
Published: March 2024

Aims:

The aim was to explore service providers’ perspectives on trauma-informed care for women who are forced migrants.

Methods:

Service providers ( n=32) employed at one of six centres providing trauma-informed care for forced migrants were recruited by way of managers. Audio-recorded and transcribed semi-structured focus group discussions were analysed with systematic text condensation.

Results:

The analysis revealed exposure to gender-based violence and abuse within patriarchal structures as the main challenges for women. Participants recognised remarkable strength and resilience among women. A range of structural, psychosocial and individual barriers to trauma-informed care were addressed. While trauma-informed care was considered to have the potential to improve the health for many women, participants articulated room for improvement in the competence of service providers and the conditions impacting women’s opportunities to access support.

Conclusions:

Violence, abuse and oppression against forced migrant women severely impact their health and possibilities of accessing support. Services providing trauma-informed care for forced migrants need to empower women, and carefully consider gender-related aspects impacting women’s opportunities to access and utilise trauma-informed care. To ensure that women who need support access it, trauma-informed services should work with outreach efforts, ensure competence development among providers, counteract practical barriers and coordinate with health and social services.
How can we do ethnographic research in a controversy? Lessons and reflections from a multi-sided ethnography of badger culling and bovine Tuberculosis
Authors: Phoenix Jessica
Published: March 2024

Ethnographic research of controversies with divisive sides provides valuable insight into how controversies are enacted, their heterogeneities, and how relations between sides shape interwoven identities. However, the methodology raises specific challenges for researchers, and there is a lack of insight on how to do multi-sided ethnographies. This article considers how to undertake multi-sided ethnography by reflecting on my own research into the bovine Tuberculosis controversy in England, in which I did fieldwork with people shooting badgers and people undertaking direct action against the shooting of badgers. These reflections are framed around the challenges of negotiating uneven terms of access with and between oppositional groups, negotiating a researcher's role as a knowledge resource between groups, and negotiating a researcher's own emotions and safety in highly charged contexts. I propose that it is key for researchers to hold non-aligned positions in the controversies being studied and to navigate critical distance with participants to manage these challenges. Researchers need to be both an ‘insider’ and ‘outsider’ with all participant groups to maintain a degree of access across multiple sides of a controversy. Finally, I provide practical recommendations for how to undertake multi-sided ethnographies of controversies.
Home futures: a house biography of futures for a modernist high-rise estate
Authors: Baxter Richard
Published: March 2024

House biographies tend to focus on buildings’ pasts. By comparison, this article develops a house biography of futures for a modernist high-rise estate, the Aylesbury Estate in London. It argues that a house biography of futures explores the multiple futures of house, building, estate and the built environment. To provide the biography the fieldwork involved archival research, oral history interviews and home tours, semi structured in-depth interviews and photography. The article reveals the history of governed futures at the estate. Multiple modes of future governance unfolded, such as a modernist future and regeneration, due to the indeterminacy of the future. There were a range of everyday home futures, including a modernist domesticity and more ordinary futures, with the future present in the estate’s materiality and residents’ lived experiences. The article draws attention to the multiple futures of home.
Enhancement of the rheological, dynamic mechanical, and morphological properties of thermoplastic natural rubber based on NR/PP blends using ENR/PP-g-MA as a compatibilizer
Authors: Belhaoues Abderrahmane , Riahi Farid , Marcos-Fernández Ángel Antonio
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effects of incorporating a 50/50 blend of Epoxidized Natural Rubber/Polypropylene-grafted maleic anhydride (ENR/PP-g-MA) as a compatibilizing agent (CA) for a 70/30 Natural Rubber/Polypropylene (NR/PP) thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) on the technical properties such as structural analysis, rheological, dynamic mechanical and morphological properties. Formulations with varying CA concentrations (5 to 15 phr) were prepared using a Brabender plasticorder at 180°C for 10 min. The structural analysis was examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR). The rheological behavior was examined using a Rubber Process Analyser (RPA). The dynamic mechanical properties were investigated by DMA. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was used for the morphological examination. FTIR analysis confirmed reactions between the MA group in PP-g-MA and the epoxy groups in ENR, resulting in ENR-grafted PP with an ester and acid-based linkage. This reaction was evident during compatibilizer preparation. RPA results showed increased viscosity for both types of CAs compared to their individual values, confirming crosslinking reactions. Higher CA concentrations led to elevated viscosity and storage modulus. DMA results indicated that the compatibilization led to a significant enhancement in the storage modulus of the blends. Moreover, an increase in the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the blends was produced. AFM examination revealed a more homogenous distribution of the dispersed PP phase for the CA-containing blends compared to the control NR/PP system.
Chronic Pain Performance and Knowledge: Toward a Process With Ecological Pain
Authors: Hopfinger Sarah
Published: March 2024

I have lived with chronic back pain for over 20 years. My experience has shown me that my relationship to pain can resonate with what it means to relate with wider ecological pain. I reflect on Pain and I—my autobiographical dance performance that explores the rich complexities of chronic pain and asks “what can pain teach us”? I explore what chronic pain experience can reveal about having a process with pain and staying “with the trouble” of our “wounded Earth.” I draw on autoethnographic poetry, performance text, pain theory, and ecological philosophy.
Electrophysiological and Cognitive Changes in Hard Coal Miners Associated with Working Underground
Authors: Çelik Samet , Yıldırım Ebru , Güntekin Bahar
Published: March 2024

Miners working underground face some risk factors that affect the nervous system—such as high noise, dark environment, chronic stress, and exposure to toxic gases. However, it is not known whether these risk factors affect the cognition of miners. In this study, the cognitive changes of miners were examined through event-related oscillations via electroencephalogram (EEG). Twenty underground miners and control groups, equal to each other in age, education level, and working duration, participated in this study. Neuropsychological tests were applied to all participants to examine their cognitive characteristics. Then, 20-channel EEG was recorded for electrophysiological changes during visual oddball paradigm. Event-related power spectrum and phase locking were analyzed in delta (0.5-3.5), theta (4-7), and alpha (8-13 Hz) frequency bands. It was determined that the delta responses that emerged during the target stimulus differed between the two groups in terms of phase locking (p < 0.05). Considering event-related alpha responses, a statistical difference was found regarding power spectrum and phase locking (p < 0.05). Moreover, the alpha power spectrum in the miners was found to be negatively statistically correlated with working duration (p < 0.05). This study determined that the event-related electrophysiological responses of the miners were negatively affected depending on the working conditions. In addition, neuropsychological assessment determined miners had deficiencies in learning and memory skills and many other cognitive functions such as attention, behavioral inhibition, and visual perception.
Triple-diffusive free convection enhancement at the stagnation point on moving sheet under the influence of hall effect and mass flux
Authors: Islam Ammara , Mahmood Zafar , Khan Umar , Muhammad Taseer , Hassan Ahmed M
Published: March 2024

This study seeks to examine the impact of convective heat transfer, buoyancy ratios, hall current effect, nonlinear thermal radiation, Schmidt number, Prandtl number and mass flux condition on the temperature profiles, velocity profiles and concentration profiles. The research explores into mass and heat transfer characteristics of a stagnation point flow of a free convective triple diffusion with considerations for convective boundary constraints and nonlinear thermal radiation over a mobile vertical plate. To elucidate the aims and methodology, the study utilizes similarity transformation to convert the governing partial differential equations into a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Numerical solutions are obtained employing a fourth-order Runge-Kutta shooting strategy. The findings, showcased through graphical representations, unravel the intricate interplay of parameters, shedding light on flow distribution, temperature, and velocity profiles. These quantitative results not only enhance our scientific understanding of fluid dynamics but also hold practical implications across diverse sectors. Notably, the acquired insights are poised to benefit fields such as environmental science and engineering, where optimizing heat and mass transfer processes is paramount. This research thus contributes valuable perspectives to both the theoretical framework of fluid dynamics and its real-world applications.
Two cases of breast pseudoaneurysm following core biopsy: A very rare complication with different treatment options
Authors: Jayathilake Champika , Uyangoda Thamara , Kitsos Dimitris , Sever Ali , Kasem Abdul , Metafa Anna
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Breast pseudoaneurysm is a rare complication following breast interventional procedures such as core biopsies and vacuum-assisted biopsies. The occurrence of pseudoaneurysm increases with the conditions of increased breast vascularity like cancer, pregnancy and lactation.

Case Report:

We present two cases of pseudoaneurysm formation secondary to core biopsies of the breasts. The first patient was an 82-year-old female patient who presented with breast swelling and bruising after multiple clinical core biopsies of the left breast. Our second patient was a 47-year-old lady who presented with a palpable lump following ultrasound-guided core biopsies of the left breast. Ultrasound showed hypoechoic pulsating area with evidence of internal colour flow in connection with a vessel in both cases. Imaging appearances were in keeping with a pseudoaneurysm of the breast.

Discussion:

Most pseudoaneurysms are secondary to interventional procedures in the breast. Common clinical presentation is a pulsatile, palpable mass at the biopsy site soon after the biopsy or later. On B mode imaging, it presents as a well-circumscribed mass of mixed echogenicity. Typical waveform in spectral Doppler and ‘yin-yang’ sign in colour Doppler is demonstrated with a turbulent internal flow. There are different treatment options to manage pseudoaneurysms of the breast.

Conclusion:

Pseudoaneurysm of the breast should be considered if a patient presents with a breast mass/lump close to a recent biopsy site. On clinical examination, pulsatility of the mass should raise the suspicion and definite diagnosis can be made with spectral and colour Doppler US scan.
Ultrasonography in diagnosis of distal biceps tendinosis: A case series
Authors: Shi Dingbo , Billham Jessica F , Battaglia Patrick J , Specht Tyler J , Davenport John A , Kettner Norman W
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Biceps tendinosis, a milder form on the spectrum of biceps tendinopathy, is unusual at the distal insertion site. Patients with distal biceps tendinosis may experience pain and dysfunction which could inhibit their activities of daily living. Diagnosis of distal biceps tendinosis may be facilitated with ultrasonography (US), whose accuracy is increasingly recognised, while providing many benefits over other modalities, like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Case report:

We report two cases of distal biceps tendinosis diagnosed by US with clinical details, imaging findings and patient management. Two patients present with elbow pain after nontraumatic activities. US revealed a thickened distal biceps tendon with mild heterogeneous hypoechogenicity without fibre disruption or retraction in both cases and evidence of hyperemia on Doppler with surrounding bursal fluid in case 2.

Discussion:

Tendinosis has variable aetiologies, but US commonly cannot differentiate among these; therefore, patient’s clinical history is the major component in determining the underlying cause. Chronic progression of tendon pathology leads to partial and full thickness tears. Tendinosis has a characteristic US appearance. US has many benefits and clinicians may use this modality to assess possible pathological structures with ease, convenience and efficiency compared with using MRI.

Conclusion:

Distal biceps tendinosis may present with clinical symptoms of pain and decreased activities of daily living, and may progress to more severe forms of tendinopathy. Early diagnosis is beneficial for the treatment outcomes of this condition. US can visualise distal biceps tendinosis with reliability, providing an alternative diagnostic technique with many benefits compared with MRI.
Students’ attitudes towards fundamental democratic values: The construction of a measurement instrument
Authors: Hoek Lianne , Munniksma Anke , Dijkstra Anne Bert
Published: March 2024

Schools carry the important task of fostering democratic values like equality and tolerance among students. This study examined to what extent a valid and reliable measurement instrument can be developed to gain insight into students’ attitudes towards democratic values and what can be concluded based on this measurement. We constructed the Fundamental Democratic Values Questionnaire (FDVQ) based on existing conceptualisations of democratic values. After that, we conducted two pilot studies ( N = 302 and N = 227) and a first measurement ( N = 3278) among Dutch students in grades 5 and 6 (approximately 10–12 years old), resulting in an impression of the usefulness of the instrument for empirical research and practical use by schools. The results support the FDVQ’s validity and reliability to measure students’ attitudes towards democratic values. Support for democratic values among students was generally high. These findings and the implications of the FDVQ are further discussed.
Numbers as Fact-Icons: The Public Power of ‘6402’ in Post-War Colombia
Authors: Rudas Nicolás
Published: March 2024

In 2021, the Peace Court of Colombia revealed that the national army had systematically executed 6402 innocent civilians, falsely presenting them as members of illegal armed groups. This revelation catapulted the number ‘6402’ into a prominent position within the country’s public discourse. I reconstruct the first six months of the figure’s dissemination, encompassing its coverage in both traditional and social media. In this analysis, I put forth a novel cultural-sociological conceptualization of numbers as ‘fact-icons’, departing from conventional views that regard statistics as purely technical entities.

For wide segments of the Colombian public, ‘6402’ became a continuing political emblem not only because it reflected the magnitude of a real atrocity, but also due to factors of a more symbolic kind. First, the publication of the figure was constructed as a collective experience of ‘epiphany’ by journalists and media commentators. Second, it was infused with deep narratives of national identity by social movement activists. Lastly, it became a focal point of effervescent collective action through stylized aesthetic representations within the realm of popular art.
An exploration of sharps injuries within healthcare students at a UK university
Authors: Hambridge K , Burt W , Bettache G , Keshishian M , Walvin T , Cozma E
Published: March 2024

Background

There is evidence available worldwide that nursing, medical and dental students sustain sharps injuries during their programmes of study. However, there is lack of evidence and research relating to the many students of other healthcare professions who may encounter sharps instruments.

Aim/objective

The aim of the study was to identify the extent, type and impact of sharps injuries sustained by pre-registration healthcare students.

Methods

An online survey was administered to 3372 healthcare students at a University in the United Kingdom.

Findings/results

Some healthcare students other than nursing, medical and dentistry had sustained a sharps injury. The most common device involved were glass ampoules. The common causes were equipment and carelessness. Some healthcare students sustained psychological impacts following the sharps injury.

Discussion

Sharps injuries are common amongst some healthcare students and there is scope for more education for these groups of students relating to the risks, safe handling, reporting and prevention of sharps injuries.
Examining the impact and response to an outbreak of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales in a neonatal unit in the United Kingdom: An outbreak report
Authors: Anil Megha , Dopran Jacki , Claxton Alleyna , Fleming Paul , Aladangady Narendra
Published: March 2024

Background

Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) are a group of Gram-negative bacteria causing global concern due to their resistance to carbapenems. In this report, we detail the learning points from a CPE outbreak in a tertiary neonatal unit (NU) in the UK.

Methods

Routine surveillance screening (rectal swabs) of babies on the NU identified a potential cluster of CPE carriage. Samples were sent to a reference laboratory for confirmatory testing. Environmental screening and cot mapping were undertaken to determine movements of babies within the unit. Regular audits of cleaning standards, hand hygiene, and maternal hygiene when expressing breast milk were carried out.

Results

The outbreak lasted 19 weeks. During the outbreak, there were 360 admissions, with 11 babies being colonised with the outbreak strain. Once the outbreak was declared, there were enhanced Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) precautions (including increased environmental and equipment cleaning frequency). CPE screening frequency was increased and cot capacity was reduced. Hand hygiene compliance improved from 92% at the start of the outbreak to 100% by its close. Cleaning standards remained compliant. Maternal hygiene standards varied from 78% to 100%, but no cross-infection links were identified. Environmental screening was negative. No route of cross-infection was identified. Notably, no babies developed invasive CPE infection.

Conclusion

This is the first report of a CPE outbreak in a UK NU. Although no specific mode of cross-transmission was identified and the outbreak’s end cannot be attributed to any single intervention, the bundle of interventions proved successful after a 5-month period.
The Trade of Porcupines in Malaysia With International Trade Links
Authors: Gomez Lalita , Min Sheng Khoo
Published: March 2024

Background and Research Aims

Porcupines are frequently traded in Asia but evidence of this remains undocumented. This study was undertaken to address the dearth of information on porcupine trade dynamics using Malaysia as a case study.

Methods

To accomplish this, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) outlets throughout the country were surveyed, the existence of porcupine farms were determined and porcupine seizures in Malaysia from 2011 – 2019 were analysed.

Results

The data revealed that porcupines are coveted predominantly for bezoars used in TCM and for breeding stock. Porcupine bezoars were found in 90% of TCM outlets surveyed though it is likely that the market consists of genuine and fake products. Porcupine farming appears to be gaining popularity and predominantly caters to a demand for breeding pairs. There were 47 seizures amounting to 110 porcupines of at least three species. Seizures included mostly live animals but also meat and quills.

Conclusion

The harvesting and consumption of porcupines is legally permitted in Malaysia. However, it is evident that illegal hunting of porcupines is also occurring. Captive breeding is unlikely to reduce poaching of porcupines considering the high value associated with wild-sourced bezoars. Local use is also driving international trade of bezoars particularly from Indonesia.

Implications for Conservation

Research on porcupine trade dynamics in Southeast Asia is limited. This is a conservation concern particularly as porcupines are valued as commercial commodities. As Asian porcupines face a multitude of synergistic threats ( i.e., habitat loss, human conflict and illegal hunting), understanding these cumulative impacts on wild populations is a conservation priority. More research on international trade dynamics is also warranted as it is currently occurring without any regulation or monitoring. Listing porcupines in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) could potentially mitigate this.
State School Nurse Consultants Issue RN Action Agendas
Authors: Luehr Ruth Ellen , Schultz Colleen , Riley Andrea
Published: March 2024

The National Association of State School Nurse Consultants (NASSNC) recently issued two action agendas for school nurses. The first action agenda promotes school nurses using their credentials in all communications, documenting their expertise and asserting their legal authority to practice professional nursing. The focus is on the baccalaureate-prepared registered nurse (RN) being the entry level preparation for school nursing. The second action agenda suggests school nurses can increase school administrator support by explaining their specialty practice and offers several marketing strategies. School nurses are invited to access the RN Action Agendas at the NASSNC website link provided.
Innovative learning technologies in higher education
Authors: Tulenbayev Zhanat , Kozhageldi Bolat , Baizhanova Sulushash , Dairabay Dinara , Nametbayev Galimzhan
Published: March 2024

The issue of attracting innovative technologies to teaching activities has become particularly relevant over the past 2 years around the world. This concerns the spread of such an epidemiological disease as COVID-19, since it caused the transition from full-time to distance learning. Kazakhstan is no exception, therefore, the spread of such a trend is clearly manifested in it, which is why there is an active use of interactive forms of education, including a variety of innovative pedagogical technologies. The purpose of the study is to analyse the types of computer technologies used in universities of Kazakhstan, to determine their effectiveness in the conditions of distance learning, and to establish the prospects of their future use in the context of full-time education. To achieve this goal, the study uses various practical means for conducting research, in particular: functional and methodological, dialectical and methodological approaches, method of logical analysis, synthesis, comparative method, abstraction, and analysis of literature. As a result of the conducted research, the theoretical basis of the concept of innovative technologies in pedagogical activity was determined, their types and signs were formed. In addition, the methods and forms of implementation of such technologies were identified, the level of their effectiveness was determined, and methods for their improvement were proposed. Considering the areas of future study on this topic, it would be advisable to investigate ways to use artificial intelligence in distance learning. As for the practical value of the study, it is conditioned by the foundations formed in the work that can be used by both university teachers and schools to effectively organise the educational process during a pandemic.
Identifying Risk Factors for Preexisting or Developing Low Back Pain in Youth, High School, and Collegiate Lacrosse Players Using 3-Dimensional Motion Analysis
Authors: Wasser Joseph G. , Bruner Michelle L. , Chen Cong , Vincent Heather K.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Low back pain (LBP) is a common condition that can affect athletes of all ages. The risk factors for LBP onset and worsening associated with the lacrosse shooting motion are not yet known.

Purpose:

To identify training and biomechanical factors associated with preexisting LBP and development of LBP over 6 months in youth, high school, and collegiate lacrosse players.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 128 lacrosse players were enrolled in this study between January 2016 and January 2019. Player characteristics, lacrosse experience, and participation in other sports were self-reported. At baseline and 2-, 4-, and 6-month follow-ups, the players self-rated the presence and severity of LBP using a numeric pain rating scale (0-10 points). Participants were grouped according to LBP symptoms: no LBP at any time point (n = 102), preexisting LBP (n = 17), or developed LBP within the 6-month period (n = 9). The lacrosse shooting motion was captured via 3-dimensional motion analysis, and kinematic and kinetic variables were recorded. A Low Back Stress Index was used to estimate lumbar stress as a function of pelvic acceleration at the time of maximum lateral trunk lean during the shot. Univariate analyses of covariance and logistic regression models were used to address study aims.

Results:

Compared with the no-LBP group, the preexisting LBP group demonstrated 13.9% to 22.9% lower maximum angular velocities at the pelvis, trunk, and shoulders in the transverse plane ( P < .05), 19.3% less collective pelvis-shoulder rotation in the transverse plane ( P = .015), and 4.5% more knee flexion excursion ( P = .063). The developed-LBP group produced 2.3% to 11.1% higher angular velocities in the pelvis, trunk, and shoulder and generated maximum pelvic acceleration values 36% to 42% higher than the remaining groups ( P < .05 for both). Mean Low Back Stress Index values were not statistically significant among the groups (no LBP: 12,504 ± 13,076 deg2/s2; preexisting LBP: 8808 ± 10,174 deg2/s2; developed LBP: 19,389 ± 13,590 deg2/s2; P = .157).

Conclusion:

Preexisting LBP was associated with significantly restricted motion of the pelvis, trunk, and shoulders during a lacrosse shot. Excessive pelvic acceleration may be related to the development of LBP in lacrosse players.
A Critical Comparison of Focused Ethnography and Interpretive Phenomenology in Nursing Research
Authors: Opara Uchechi Clara , Petrucka Pammla
Published: March 2024

Choosing an appropriate qualitative methodology in nursing research is a researcher’s first step before beginning a study. Such a step is critical as the selected qualitative methodology should be congruent with the research questions, study assumptions, data gathering and analysis to promote the utility of such research in enhancing nursing knowledge. In this paper, we compare focused ethnography by Roper and Shapira and interpretive phenomenology by Benner. Though these methodologies are naturalistic and appear similar, both have different methodological underpinnings. The historical, ontological, epistemological, and axiological philosophy guiding each methodology are described. In addition, the methodological underpinnings of both methodologies and a justification for use in nursing research are provided. This paper will assist future researchers who aim to employ these methodologies in nursing research.
Efficacy of Installation of Temporary Bathing Transfer Aids by Older Adults
Authors: Rand Megan , Pelchat James , Levine Iris C. , Montgomery Roger E. , Greene Rebecca M. , King Emily C. , Pong Steven M. , Novak Alison C.
Published: March 2024

Grab bars facilitate bathing and reduce the risk of falls during bathing. Suction cup handholds and rim-mounted tub rails are an alternative to grab bars. The objective of this study was to determine whether older adults could install handholds and tub rails effectively to support bathing transfers. Participants installed rim-mounted tub rails and suction cup handholds in a simulated bathroom environment. Installation location and mechanical loading performance were evaluated. Participant perceptions during device installation and a bathing transfer were characterized. While 85% of suction cup handholds met loading requirements, more than half of participants installed the suction cup handhold in an unexpected location based on existing guidance documents. No rim-mounted tub rails were successfully installed. Participants were confident that the devices had been installed effectively. Suction cup handholds and rim mounted tub rails are easy to install, but clients may need additional guidance regarding where, and how to install them.
The positive effect of blue luminescent pathways on urban park visitor’s affective states: A virtual reality online study measuring facial expressions and self-reports
Authors: Lanini-Maggi Sara , Lanz Martin , Hilton Christopher , Fabrikant Sara Irina
Published: March 2024

The colour blue often elicits feelings of calmness and contentment, for which evidence has largely been provided in daytime settings. It is unclear whether pathways illuminated in blue, for example, in urban recreational park areas at night confers the same positive impact on night time park visitors. To tackle this open empirical question, we investigated how adding blue self-luminous pavement to park lighting at night time affects park visitors’ emotions compared to conventional white street light illumination. Our goal is to inform design decisions aimed at enhancing the emotional well-being of people outdoors at night in urban environments. Participants’ emotional response was captured at four different time points while watching a video of a walk in a virtual urban park at night, which was lit with white street lights only or with the addition of blue luminescent pavement on the walked paths (between-subject design). To capture visitor’s emotions, we used a simplified version of the Geneva Emotion Wheel (GEW) instrument and online facial expression recognition technology as subjective (self-reports) and objective (physiological) measures of emotion, respectively. The results of the GEW self-reports showed that the addition of a blue self-luminous pavement in a park during night time yielded more positive affect than standard white lighting in park visitors for the first half of the walk. In the second half of the walk through the park, participants’ affective states seemed to equalize between the two lighting conditions. In contrast, sensory data on facial expressions indicated no difference between participants’ emotional states over the whole walk in the two experimental conditions. Consistent with the positive emotional state perceived in the second half of the walk, the state of relaxation experienced after the walk also did not differ between the two lighting conditions. Furthermore, participants’ relaxation judgements after the park walk were more negative overall for females than the more neutral ratings of males. Our results highlight the importance of lighting colour at night for the design of future affect-smart cities that may consider individual and group characteristics with the ultimate intent of promoting public well-being.
Scrutinising commodity hype in imaginaries of the Swedish green steel transition
Authors: de Leeuw Georgia , Vogl Valentin
Published: March 2024

The technological push for hydrogen-based steel production has become a flagship project of the Swedish state for advancing its global environmental leadership and becoming the world's first fossil free welfare state. The new production process has the potential to drastically cut emissions in a heavy polluting industry. The plans also entail a drastic upscale in steel production, energy and iron ore consumption and risk increasing existing pressures on Indigenous Sami land, local communities, and biodiversity. This article sets out to investigate the frontier-making function of green steel imaginaries to contribute to debates on sacrificed spaces of extraction for green commodity demand. The article speaks to a call for a critical turn in sustainability transitions literature by introducing the concept of hype to scrutinise the material consequences of growth-based green transition imaginaries. This article builds on a narrative analysis of government, industry, and company actors’ visions of a green steel future. The analysis illustrates how sociotechnical imaginaries are constructed to enable particular industrial futures over other green transition pathways. We show that the sociotechnical imaginary of green steel, fuelled through hype, serves to advance the new commodity and growth of the industry while effectively cancelling out democratic nuance and non-extractive alternatives. The findings illustrate the importance of pluralising green imaginaries to ensure inclusive transition pathways and to nuance and discursively dismantle the hype of green transitions that fail to break with the growth paradigm.
Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava and Agitated Saline: A Strategically Thinking Sonographer’s Perspective
Authors: Trump Michael , Kallstrom Eric
Published: March 2024

Comprehension of cardiac anatomy is critical for health care providers and allied health professionals in the pursuit of an accurate and timely patient diagnosis. Many times, when these anomalies are discovered, they are incidental findings from an asymptomatic patient during cardiovascular imaging. One specific anomaly which requires keen attention to detail and critical decision-making abilities is a persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC). On a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), PLSVCs are discovered with the addition of agitated saline, commonly known as bubble studies. Because these anomalies are left-sided, it is critical for the sonographer and IV (intravenous)-trained staff to administer agitated saline through an IV on the left arm. Although rare, PLSVC may correlate with other cardiac pathologies, thus indicating the magnitude of a sonographer’s attention to surrounding anatomy (such as a dilated coronary sinus) and the necessity of appropriate IV location. This case study demonstrated the significance of a strategically thinking sonographer while diagnosing a PLSVC on TTE with agitated saline, which could have been missed if the IV line were not initiated on the left arm.
The longitudinal microbial and metabolic landscape of infant cystic fibrosis: the gut–lung axis
Authors: Frayman Katherine B. , Macowan Matthew , Caparros-Martin Jose , Ranganathan Sarath C. , Marsland Benjamin J.
Published: March 2024

Background and aim

In cystic fibrosis, gastrointestinal dysfunction and lower airway infection occur early and are independently associated with poorer outcomes in childhood. This study aimed to define the relationship between the microbiota at each niche during the first 2 years of life, its association with growth and airway inflammation, and explanatory features in the metabolome.

Materials and methods

67 bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), 62 plasma and 105 stool samples were collected from 39 infants with cystic fibrosis between 0 and 24 months who were treated with prophylactic antibiotics. 16S rRNA amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing were performed on BALF and stool samples, respectively; metabolomic analyses were performed on all sample types. Sequencing data from healthy age-matched infants were used as controls.

Results

Bacterial diversity increased over the first 2 years in both BALF and stool, and microbial maturation was delayed in comparison to healthy controls from the RESONANCE cohort. Correlations between their respective abundance in both sites suggest stool may serve as a noninvasive alternative for detecting BALFPseudomonasandVeillonella. Multisite metabolomic analyses revealed age- and growth-related changes, associations with neutrophilic airway inflammation, and a set of core systemic metabolites. BALFPseudomonasabundance was correlated with altered stool microbiome composition and systemic metabolite alterations, highlighting a complex gut–plasma–lung interplay and new targets with therapeutic potential.

Conclusion

Exploration of the gut–lung microbiome and metabolome reveals diverse multisite interactions in cystic fibrosis that emerge in early life. Gut–lung metabolomic links with airway inflammation andPseudomonasabundance warrant further investigation for clinical utility, particularly in non-expectorating patients.