bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Historiography and Historicity of Mercenaries and Private Military Contractors in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Baines Gary 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article seeks to understand the changing nature of mercenarism in postcolonial sub-Saharan Africa. It argues that shifts in social norms and politico-legal discourse have influenced attitudes to mercenaries. Where there was once international censure of their use, there is now a growing acceptance thereof. In the pursuit of cost effectiveness and political expediency, the privatisation of state security functions has given rise to a new phenomenon. Private Military Companies (pmc s) are entrusted to exercise force on behalf of or in partnership with the state and so have been accorded legitimacy. These changes will be examined in the light of Africa’s experience of mercenaries and private military contractors. It does not propose a singular trajectory of mercenarism but allows for contingency. It suggests that close attention should be paid to the historical context in which these varied forms have appeared.
The Extractive Power of Automated Surveillance
Authors: Shapiro Matan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Experts in Open-Source Intelligence (osint) and “Development Security Operations” (Dev-Sec-Ops) increasingly use automated tools to monitor databases, survey “targets” and identify cybersecurity threats. While the information they seek is usually freely available online, finding and extracting it requires special expertise. The extractive power of automated machines accelerates in this way the ubiquity of synoptic surveillance, while raising new ethical considerations that often obscure heuristic definitions between benevolent and malicious monitoring practices. Based on ethnographic research with osint and DevSecOps practitioners in the UK I identify this process analytically as an “authoritarian conundrum.” I argue that reliance on automatic data extraction thus redefines power relations online and discuss its potentially despotic effects.
Maritime Skills and the (Not So) Changing Qualification Landscape in Global Shipping
Authors: Mevik Camilla 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article examines transformations of labour through an exploration of the shipping sector and the emerging responses and adaptations of seafarers to processes aimed at standardising skills in an increasingly automated workplace. Focusing on on-board occupational relations, I investigate how maritime industries use labour and highlight the underlying dynamics behind how the popular image of the global transport system – which gives the impression of it being equivalent to a factory assembly line – is enabled and reinforced. The article argues that this image is not only connected to how the industry and its regulations are formally and institutionally produced – through logics of efficiency, large-scale infrastructure, and automation – but also enacted by the types of everyday labour seafarers undertake, whose skills, experiences, personalities, and social competencies, which shape their extractive practices in many ways, are deeply racialised and culturally biased.
Historicising Paradox and Secularisation
Authors: Nash David 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article argues that Joseph Blankholm’s concept of paradox needs to be applied more widely in the historical study of religious/secular relations. Blankholm’s study is useful but illuminates only a moment in the history of the secular (one representing a society where the expression of choice is encouraged by the absence of state religion). Examining the struggle between unbelievers and Christianity in 1880s/1890s Britain illuminates an entirely different moment in which a ‘Christian paradox’ is created by secular critics, commentators upon contemporary Christianity and by Christian modernisers. The Christian paradox emerged as a compulsion to leave behind, or downplay, unhelpful (unnecessary) religious doctrines. Yet the necessity of such doctrines/texts as fundamental to the morality and laws of the UK was enshrined in the claims of the established churches over their respective citizens. This meant their status as ‘markers’ was defended, whilst their explanatory power was melting away. Through an examination of arguments against Christianity, the religious paradox is examined alongside attempts to, alternately, both live with and end it. This emphasises that an individual paradox can ensnare and control both the secular AND the religious at different moments.
The Paradoxes of Taoism in the West
Authors: Lebranchu Marc 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The attraction for Taoism, now coined World religion, which has gradually developed since the 1970s in the secularized West, reflects a twofold paradox. First, its very nature fits poorly into the standard Western category of religion. Then, Westerners who claim to be followers of or close to Taoism oscillate between search for authenticity and negation of its historical religious dimensions, and between the secularisation of Taoism and the return to religion. Is there then a Taoist paradox due to Taoism itself and counterpart, in a society indifferent to religion, to the Secular paradox highlighted by Joseph Blankholm within American society? This is what we will examine based on our work on the reception of Taoism in the West.
Caste, Religion, and Obscenities of Customs
Authors: Barathy M.G. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article discusses the works of Athippakkam A. Venkatachala Nayagar (1799–1897), a radical secular thinker of 19th-century South India. Nayagar was part of an atheist organization called Madras Secular Society, and was one of the founding members of a lower-caste association. He wrote two significant works that challenged the dominance of Brahmins and other upper-caste communities in the Tamil country. His works have spawned reprints from both anti-caste secular organizations and caste associations, which occupy polarized positions on social issues. By building on Joseph Blankholm’s Secular Paradox, this paper explores the paradoxes generated by these reprints. It also critically studies the efforts undertaken by both groups to reconcile these paradoxes through multiple negotiations with caste, religion, and secularism. Through Nayagar’s case, it explores the intricate relationship between secular organizations and lower-caste associations in the colonial and post-colonial public sphere.
Activation of Ferroptosis and NF-κB/NLRP3/MAPK Pathways in Methylmercury-Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Xie Yueqing , Yu Hongsen , Ye Yingrong , Wang Jingjing , Yang Zhengtao , Zhou Ershun 
Published: December 2024

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent hepatotoxin with a complex mechanism of inducing liver injury. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of non-apoptotic cell death, is implicated in various toxicological responses, but its role in MeHg-induced liver damage remains under investigation. In this study, we established an acute liver injury (ALI) model in mice via gavage of MeHg (0, 40, 80, 160 μmol/kg). Histopathological analysis revealed dose-dependent liver damage, corroborated by elevated serum biochemical markers, confirming MeHg-induced hepatotoxicity. MeHg exposure raised MDA levels, inhibited SOD and GSH activity, and downregulated CAT expression. Increased iron accumulation and elevated transferrin receptor expression were observed, alongside decreased GPX4 and SLC7A11 levels, indicating ferroptosis involvement. Additionally, inflammation in MeHg-exposed livers was markedly intensified, as evidenced by increased MPO activity, upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. The Keap1/NRF2/HO-1 oxidative stress response pathway was significantly activated, and p38/ERK1/2 MAPK signaling was notably increased. These findings suggested that MeHg induced acute liver injury through the interplay of ferroptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and MAPK signaling pathways, providing a scientific basis for future exploration of the mechanisms underlying MeHg-induced hepatotoxicity and potential therapeutic strategies.
Prevalence of P16 Positivity by Immunohistochemistry in Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Head and Neck—A Study from Tertiary Care Centre in South India
Authors: Hemalatha  , Jacob Sheba S. K. , Narla Swetha Lakshmi 
Published: December 2024

Background: Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) associated with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is a distinct form of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in its aetiology, morphology and prognosis. Identification of HPV status is helpful in assessing the prognosis of these tumours and in providing tailored treatment for these cases. P16 identification by immunohistochemistry (IHC) is the gold standard and highly sensitive method. Methods: Seventy-five cases of HNSCC were tested by IHC for p16. The results were evaluated using a chi-square test and correlated with histopathological and clinical parameters. A value of P < .05 was taken as significant. Results: Out of 75 cases, 14.6% were positive for p16, 1.3% were equivocal, and 84.1% were negative. The mean age of p16 positive cases was 55.72 years. Men to women ratio is 1.7:1. The oral cavity is the most commonly affected site among p16-positive cases, followed by the oropharynx and laryngopharynx. The majority of the cases (54.5%) were Grade III and non-keratinizing. Conclusion: P16 is an easily available, cost-effective Surrogate Marker for HPV-associated HNSCC. These cases were of high grade and mostly conventional non-keratinizing type, but they, still had better prognostic factors, like a lesser stage, decreased nodal metastasis, lesser depth of invasion (DOI), a lesser degree of the worst pattern of invasion (WPOI), and no involvement of the cortical bone or overlying skin. Therefore, routine staining for p16 IHC could be considered for all HNSCCs.
From exhaustion to insight: Uncovering the antecedents of work stress among healthcare professionals
Authors: Yiğit Ayşenur Baysal , Toker Kerem 
Published: December 2024

Background In the post-COVID period, the work stress experienced by healthcare professionals has become a more questionable problem. Existing studies generally examine factors caused by work stress. Few studies and discussions are identifying the antecedents of work stress. Objective This study aims to uncover the underlying factors contributing to work stress among healthcare professionals. Among these antecedents, we examined the effect of innovative work behavior, contextual business performance and discussed the moderating role of ergonomics. Methods The study sample consisted of 177 health professionals over 18 working in hospitals operating in Istanbul. We collected data from healthcare professionals through sociodemographic information form, work stress scale, innovative work behavior scale, and contextual business performance scale. We analyzed the data by partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using the Smart PLS 4.0 software package. Results As a result, the research findings suggest contextual business performance, potentially affected by innovative work behaviour and moderated by ergonomics, can be a critical antecedent of work stress. Conclusion Health administrators who desire to reduce employees’ work stress need to develop a theoretical and practical understanding of innovative work behaviour, contextual business performance, and ergonomics. Hence, discovering the causal mechanism behind work stress fills an essential gap in the literature.
Levels and influencing variables of adaptation of students in medical university
Authors: Zhu Lin-Ying , Huang Huai , Kuang Yan , Huang Dan-Li , Tang Chun-Yuan 
Published: December 2024

Background Currently, there are limited studies on the adaptation of medical university students and the factors influencing their adaptation. Objective This study aims to evaluate the adaptation status of medical university students, identify the variables influencing their adaptation, and propose scientific methods and strategies for managing their adaptation process. Methods A convenient cluster sampling method was used to select 1121 students from a medical university in China. The participants completed an anonymous questionnaire, which included a self-designed general questionnaire and the University Adaptation Scale developed by Fang et al. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression. Results A total of 1102 valid questionnaires were collected, revealing an overall adaptation score of 3.42 ± 0.54. Scores for the seven dimensions were as follows : learning adaptation (3.53 ± 0.63), interpersonal relationship adaptation (3.35 ± 0.65), campus adaptation (3.45 ± 0.65), career adaptation (3.50 ± 0.59), emotional adaptation (3.45 ± 0.65), self-adaptation (3.33 ± 0.66), and satisfaction (3.24 ± 0.77). Adaptation levels declined with age and grade increase, while only-child students and urban students scored higher than their counterparts. Students who had class cadre positions during secondary school also scored higher. Clinical medicine majors achieved the highest scores, while nursing majors had the lowest. Notably, 68.6% of students experienced discomfort symptoms at the beginning of the academic year, and 82.0% reported that the COVID-19 pandemic strengthened their desire to major in medicine. Conclusions Overall, medical students demonstrated good adaptability, with learning adaptation scoring the highest. Adaptation was influenced by major, intention to study medicine, and demographic factors such as age, grade, and household registration.
The effect of COVID-19 on health insurance and mental health
Authors: Kim Andrew , Jin Joel 
Published: December 2024

Background The outbreak of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, first discovered in Wuhan, Hubei province of the People's Republic of China, has spread to virtually every country which caused a global pandemic. The pandemic in the United States may have caused disruption of health coverage for millions of people. Researchers have found that the pandemic has affected health insurance coverage for millions in the United States. However, there is a gap in the literature that assesses the mental health status of those affected with health insurance by the covid-19 pandemic. Objective Our hypothesis postulates that those who had employer-based insurance were negatively affected and those who had public insurance were positively affected. Furthermore, we hypothesized that those who lost their health insurance experienced adverse mental health effects and conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of Covid-19 pandemic on health insurance behavior and mental health. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional method to determine whether the covid-19 pandemic influenced health insurance behavior. An online questionnaire was administered to 500 adults residing in the United States through an online platform, Prolific, that helps researchers recruit participants for online research. Enrollment was on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants completed the questionnaire on March 27, 2023. The survey administered assessed the participants mental health status with their experience of healthcare during the pandemic. Two regression analysis were conducted to understand the pandemic's effect on participants health. Our dependent variable was the answers to the participants health from the pandemic using a summative scale. The independent variable was whether participants had health insurance. And if so, the type of health insurance. Results The results showed that loss of employer health insurance has a significant effect on mental health. Furthermore, certain demographics were more likely to experience adverse health from the pandemic. Conclusion Further studies should be explored to understand the health disparities from the pandemic.
Im/migration, structured vulnerability, and the future of work: Towards a more inclusive approach to occupational health
Authors: Flynn Michael A. 
Published: December 2024

Background Occupational safety and health (OSH) faces complex challenges related to im/migration, social vulnerability and economic precarity that accompany the fundamental reorganization of work during the Fourth Industrial Revolution Objective To identify limitations of current approaches and facilitate the reintegration of a biosocial approach to OSH through the adoption of more holistic models of im/migration, work, and health. Methods Through the lens of Mexican labor im/migration to the United States, this paper explores a series of examples that highlight some of the conceptual limitations guiding research at the nexus of migration, work, and health. Results The reductionist approach to cause and effect of the biomedical model limits the ability of OSH to address the challenges related to the radical restructuring of the world of work. The externalization of the costs of maintaining and reproducing the workforce is guiding the restructuring of the world of work resulting in the growing vulnerability and insecurity that many workers face today. The legacy of colonialism continues to influence occupational health research and hinder efforts at reducing occupational health inequities. Conclusions Reintegration of a biosocial approach is essential to addressing the complex challenges related to current radical reorganization of the world of work.
Musculoskeletal disorders of traffic police in Putrajaya: Evaluating ergonomic risks and trends
Authors: Lee Mun , Mohamad Jamil Putri Anis Syahira , Mohammad Yusof Nur Athirah Diyana , Mohd Suadi Nata Dayana Hazwani , Karuppiah Karmegam 
Published: December 2024

Background Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) pose significant challenges to the health and performance of traffic police personnel, impacting their job effectiveness and overall well-being. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the ergonomic risk factors contributing to MSDs among traffic police in Putrajaya. Methods A questionnaire encompassing socio-demographic variables, work tasks, ergonomic hazards, and the Body Symptom Survey (BOSS) was administered to 40 traffic police officers stationed at the Putrajaya District Police Headquarters. Data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results Results revealed a predominantly male (87.5%), Malay (90%) population, aged between 31 and 40, with a majority serving as corporals (42.5%) within operational task units (82.5%). Primary duties among the respondents were traffic control (45%) and police escort (30%). Extreme temperatures emerged as the most prevalent ergonomic risk factor (82.5%), with the neck being the most affected body part (50%). Significant correlations were found between MSDs and various ergonomic risk factors, including awkward posture (p ≤ 0.001), static motion (p < 0.05), forceful motion (p ≤ 0.01), and excessive noise (p < 0.05). Conclusions In conclusion, specific ergonomic risk factors such as awkward posture, static and forceful motions, and excessive noise were correlates to MSDs among traffic police. To mitigate these risks and prevent MSD occurrence, it is imperative to educate and promote awareness among traffic professionals regarding the importance of adopting and maintaining ergonomic postures during task execution.
Gratitude as a moderator between employment status and sense of accomplishment in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lee Beatrice , Davies Priscilla A. , Reyes Antonio , Pan Deyu , Hermida Audrey , Lee Gloria K. 
Published: December 2024

Background Although prior research has investigated the predictors of employment of people with multiple sclerosis (MS), no studies have examined the relationship between employment status and sense of accomplishment among individuals with MS and how gratitude can affect that relationship. Objective The purpose of this study was to examine whether gratitude moderates the relationship between employment status and sense of accomplishment. Methods This cross-sectional study included 291 participants with MS (Mage = 45.77 years; SD = 10.09). Gratitude was assessed with the Gratitude Questionnaire-6 (GQ-6) developed by McCullough and colleagues (2002). Sense of accomplishment was assessed with the Accomplishment subscale of the PERMA-Profiler developed by Butler & Kern (2016 ). Sociodemographic variables (e.g., employment) were assessed. Results The findings suggest that being employed is associated with higher levels of sense of accomplishment, and higher levels of gratitude are associated with increased levels of sense of accomplishment for individuals with MS. Gratitude moderated the relationship between employment status and sense of accomplishment. Conclusions This study suggests that practitioners can integrate gratitude-enhancing interventions to promote a sense of accomplishment for individuals with MS when they experience positive life outcomes such as employment.
An investigation of the effects of COVID-19 fear on the nutrition habits and emotional appetites of healthcare professionals
Authors: Tayhan Fatma , Bakan Sevinç 
Published: December 2024

Background The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant changes in daily routines and lifestyles, potentially affecting eating behavior and psychological well-being. Objectives This study aims to determine the level of fear caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in healthcare professionals and to investigate the effect of fear of coronavirus on individuals’ eating habits. Methods 108 male and 388 female healthcare professionals working in any healthcare facility in Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic filled out an online survey that included socio-demographic characteristics, nutrition and food purchasing habits, Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and Emotional Appetite Questionnaire (EAQ). Results We found that fear of COVID-19 is higher in female healthcare professionals than in males. Higher COVID-19 fear predicted a greater risk of positive emotional appetite (OR:2.2; 95%CI:1.4–3.2). In addition, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale total score positively correlated with negative EAQ scores in females (p < 0.05). Fear of COVID-19 Scale scores of healthcare professionals who reported that they experienced a decrease in appetite levels and meal frequency during the COVID-19 pandemic were higher than those who declared that their appetite level and meal frequency did not change (p < 0.05). Finally, we found that the odds of positive emotional eating were 2.3 times higher in overweight and obese people compared to underweight and normal weight people. Conclusions These findings highlight the significant impact of COVID-19-related fear on the emotional eating behaviors and overall dietary habits of healthcare professionals, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address psychological and nutritional challenges in this vulnerable population during and after pandemics.