bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transformer-aided dynamic causal model for scalable estimation of effective connectivity
Authors: Nag Sayan , Uludag Kamil 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Dynamic Causal Models (DCMs) in functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) decipher causal interactions, known as Effective Connectivity, among neuronal populations. However, their utility is often constrained by computational limitations, restricting analysis to a small subset of interacting brain areas, typically fewer than 10, thus lacking scalability. While the regression DCM (rDCM) has emerged as a faster alternative to traditional DCMs, it is not without its limitations, including the linearization of DCM terms, reliance on a fixed Hemodynamic Response Function (HRF), and an inability to accommodate modulatory influences. In response to these challenges, we propose a novel hybrid approach named Transformer encoder DCM decoder (TREND), which combines a Transformer encoder with state-of-the-art physiological DCM (P-DCM) as decoder. This innovative method addresses the scalability issue while preserving the nonlinearities inherent in DCM equations. Through extensive simulations, we validate TREND’s efficacy by demonstrating its ability to accurately predict effective connectivity values with dramatically reduced computational time relative to original P-DCM even in networks comprising up to, for instance, 100 interacting brain regions. Furthermore, we showcase TREND on an empirical fMRI dataset demonstrating the superior accuracy and/or speed of TREND compared with other DCM variants. In summary, by amalgamating P-DCM with Transformer, we introduce and validate a pioneering approach for determining effective connectivity values among brain regions, extending its applicability seamlessly to large-scale brain networks.
Widening Participation: How Cypriot Peacebuilding Practitioners are Responding to the “Usual Suspects” Problem
Authors: Barrow Mark 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
While successful peacebuilding efforts require official, top-level negotiations (Track 1), scholars and practitioners agree that facilitating contact and dialogue at the grassroots level is instrumental in reducing prejudice, building trust, and increasing community members’ commitment to peaceful coexistence. However, grassroots-level peace interventions, such as intercommunal training activities and peace education workshops, frequently suffer from the “usual suspects” problem, becoming dominated by people who already are persuaded of the benefits of reconciliation. The problem is widespread in Cyprus, with researchers asserting that the island’s peacebuilding practitioners need to adopt strategies—or “theories of change”—that can engage a broader spectrum of the population. This article explores the usual suspects problem by focusing on a group of practitioners and their engagement strategies. It argues that interventions that conceal their connection to peacebuilding and provide opportunities relating to people’s everyday activities, interests, and livelihoods are more likely to engage individuals who are indifferent to the idea of building peaceful relations.
The Role of General Assembly Resolutions in the Identification of Customary International Law and the Chagos Archipelago Advisory Opinion
Authors: Oliveira Sofia Neto 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This article analyses how the Chagos Archipelago Advisory Opinion (2019) has contributed to the determination of the role of General Assembly resolutions in the identification of customary norms. By exposing, firstly, the many theories on the weight of these international organisations’ instruments and, secondly, which of these conclusions are considered customary (by the International Law Commission’s work on Identification of Customary Law and by the International Court of Justice’s jurisprudence); it defends that the Chagos advisory opinion has innovated in three main points. Firstly, the resolutions were not subsidiary evidence, but rather the central point of analysis for establishing the existence and scope of the right to self-determination. Secondly, the Court has offered more elements to be observed in these instruments than it ever did. Thirdly, although maintaining the focus on State practice, the Court acknowledged the role of the General Assembly, as one collective organ, on decolonisation as relevant.
The Embassy, the Ambush, and the Ogre
Authors: Morales-Harley Roberto 
Published: August 2024

This volume presents a sophisticated and intricate examination of the parallels between Sanskrit and Greco-Roman literature. By means of a philological and literary analysis, Morales-Harley hypothesizes that Greco-Roman literature was known, understood, and recreated in India. Moreover, it is argued that the techniques for adapting epic into theater could have been Greco-Roman influences in India, and that some of the elements adapted within the literary motifs (specifically the motifs of the embassy, the ambush, and the ogre) could have been Greco-Roman borrowings by Sanskrit authors.
This book draws on a wide variety of sources, including Iliad, Phoenix, Rhesus and Cyclops (Greco-Roman) as well as Mahābhārata, The Embassy, The Five Nights and The Middle One (Sanskrit). The result is a well-supported argument which presents us with the possibility of cultural exchange between the Greco-Roman world and India – a possibility which, though hypothetical, is worth acknowledging.
Due to its comparative nature, this volume will appeal to both Indologists and Classicists, including Mahābhārata scholars, Sanskrit theater scholars, and those interested in comparative work with Sanskrit literature. It brings an original perspective to the field, and provides inspiration for new lines of research.
Comparing Nephrologists’ Self-Reported Decision-Making Skills and Treatment Attitudes With Their Patients’ Experiences of Making Kidney Therapy Decisions and Receiving Nephrology Care
Authors: Jawed Areeba , Batch Brook , Allen Rebecca , Epstein Ronald , Fiscella Kevin , Duberstein Paul , Saeed Fahad 
Published: August 2024

Background Dialysis is often initiated in the United States without exploring patients’ preferred decision-making style, and conservative kidney management (CKM) is infrequently presented. To improve kidney therapy (KT) decision-making, research on nephrologists’ comfort with various decision-making styles, attitudes towards CKM, and reports of patients’ lived experiences with KT decision-making is needed. Methods We surveyed 28 nephrologists and 58 of their patients aged ≥75 years. The nephrologist survey was designed to gauge their comfort levels with decision-making styles and attitudes towards CKM. The patient survey assessed experiences in making KT decisions. Results The average age of nephrologists was 43 years, and that of patients was 82 years. Nephrologists rated themselves as comfortable with various decision styles: paternalistic (60.7%), shared decision-making (92.8%), and patient-driven decision-making (67.8%). Nearly 57% of nephrologists felt challenged or were neutral in determining CKM’s suitability, and 39% reported difficulties in discussing CKM with patients or were neutral. Only 38 % of patients recalled discussing CKM with their nephrologists, and a minority reported discussing CKM-related topics such as life expectancy (24.7%), quality of life (QOL) (45.1%), and end-of-life care (17.5%). Conclusions Most nephrologists displayed comfort with various decision-making styles; however, many described difficulties in guiding patients toward CKM. In contrast, patients reported gaps in vital aspects of KT decision-making and CKM choices, such as discussions of life expectancy, QOL, and end-of-life care. Raising awareness of blind spots in decision-making skills and educating nephrologists in KT decision-making to include CKM and other person-centered aspects of care are needed.
The Afghan Murat: A Queer Subject at Transnational Crossroads
Authors: Abdi Ali 
Published: August 2024

This article introduces and explores the subjectivity of a queer community in Afghanistan, the self-identified murats. Murat is a subject position that emerged in Afghanistan over the past 20 years to become a viable category of personhood and a practical term of reference among a community of non-masculine dancers and sex workers living and working in the capital (and other major cities). Based on the findings of ethnographic fieldwork conducted between 2016 and 2021 in Kabul, the article shows that the transnational and transhistorical formation of Afghan murats’ gender and sexual subjectivities has been the result of the intersection of three other categories of personhood: the South Asian hijra, the Turko-Persianate bachah, and the Afghan īzak. By studying the Afghan murat subjectivity, the article further sketches out a template for imagining the sex/gender configuration in Afghanistan, suggesting that it is non-binary and cannot be comfortably divided into the two opposing poles of the male/masculine and the female/feminine.
Exploring measurement tools used to assess knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of pregnant women toward prenatal screening: A systematic review
Authors: Sacca Lea , Zerrouki Yasmine , Burgoa Sara , Okwaraji Goodness , Li Ashlee , Arshad Shaima , Gerges Maria , Tevelev Stacey , Kelly Sophie , Knecht Michelle , Kitsantas Panagiota , Hunter Robert , Scott Laurie , Reynolds Alexis Piccoli , Colon Gabriela , Retrouvey Michele 
Published: August 2024

There is a lack of standardized measurement tools globally to assess knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of expecting women toward prenatal screening. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify reasons women pursue or decline prenatal screening and compare the strengths and limitations of available measurement tools used to assess pregnant women’s perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes toward prenatal screening. This review followed the five-step York methodology by Arksey and O’Malley and incorporated recommendations from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis checklist for the extraction, analysis, and presentation of results. The five steps consisted of: (1) identification of the research questions; (2) searching for relevant studies; (3) selection of studies relevant to the research questions; (4) data charting; and (5) collation, summarization, and reporting of results. Four online databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) were selected after the librarian’s development of a detailed search strategy. The Rayyan platform was used between June 2023 and August 2023 to epitomize the articles produced from our search. A total of 68 eligible studies were included in the analysis. The top five major reasons for declining prenatal screening uptake included (1) being unsure of the risk of prenatal screening and harm to the baby or miscarriage ( n = 15), (2) not considering action such as termination of pregnancy for prenatal screening to be considered as necessary ( n = 14), (3) high cost ( n = 12), (4) lack of knowledge about testing procedures and being anxious about the test ( n = 10), and (5) being worried about probability of false negative or false positive results ( n = 6). Only 32 studies utilized scientifically validated instruments. Difficulties in capturing representative, adequately sized samples inclusive of diverse ethnicities and demographics were pervasive. Findings highlight the need for rigorous validation of research measurement methodologies to ensure the accuracy and applicability of resulting data regarding the assessment of prenatal screening perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes across diverse female populations. Registration: N/A.
Women’s experiences of receiving antenatal and intrapartum care during COVID-19 at public hospitals in the Sidama region, Ethiopia: A qualitative study using the combination of three delay and social-ecological framework (hybrid framework)
Authors: Kassa Zemenu Yohannes , Scarf Vanessa , Turkmani Sabera , Fox Deborah 
Published: August 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic, drought and internal conflict have worsened Ethiopia’s already weak healthcare system. Antenatal and intrapartum care are especially prone to interruption under these circumstances. Objective: To explore women’s experiences receiving antenatal and intrapartum care during the pandemic. Design: A descriptive qualitative approach was utilised. Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews with 17 women and held 4 focus group discussions with women who gave birth at 4 public hospitals during the pandemic. A study was conducted at four public hospitals in the Sidama region of Ethiopia, during which data were collected from 14 February to 10 May 2022. Thematic analysis was performed to generate themes. Results: The peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia presented several barriers to access and uptake of antenatal and intrapartum care at public hospitals. Four themes and 10 subthemes emerged from the thematic analysis. The themes were ‘Barriers to maternity care uptake during COVID-19’, ‘Shortage of resources during COVID-19’, ‘Delays in maternity care uptake during COVID-19’ and ‘Mistreatment of women during maternity care during COVID-19’. The subthemes included ‘Fear of contracting COVID-19’, ‘People in the hospital neglecting COVID-19 prevention’, ‘Women losing their job during COVID-19’, ‘Shortage of beds in the labour ward’, ‘Shortage of medical supplies’, ‘Delays in seeking care’, ‘Delays in receiving care’, ‘Complications during childbirth’, ‘disrespectful’ and ‘suboptimal care’. Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore the impact of COVID-19 on antenatal and intrapartum care, leading to delays in seeking and receiving care due to reduced rapport, resource shortages, companion restrictions, disrespectful care and suboptimal care. These factors contribute to increased obstetric complications during COVID-19. It is imperative for policymakers to prioritise essential resources for antenatal and intrapartum care in the present and future pandemics. Moreover, healthcare providers should maintain respectful and optimal care even amid challenges.
Care-experienced young people’s views and experiences of accessing general practice and dental services and attending health reviews in England: a qualitative study
Authors: Herlitz Lauren , Ashford Emily , Baldwin James , Powell Claire , Woodman Jenny 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Children in care and care leavers have worse health outcomes than their peers without care experience. This study addresses an evidence gap in exploring care-experienced young people’s views and experiences of accessing general practice and dental services and attending health reviews in England.

Methods
We conducted a qualitative study using podcasting as a creative medium. We recruited young people from two sites: one in South England (A) and one in greater London (B). We held two paired discussions in site A and two focus groups in site B, with 14 participants in total. Participants were aged between 13 and 22 years and were diverse in gender, ethnicity, and care experiences. Data were analysed thematically using candidacy theory as a theoretical framework.

Results
Mental health was a prevailing concern for participants, but general practice was not considered a place to discuss it. Most participants reported distant relationships with primary healthcare professionals and considered opening-up to a professional to be risky, for example, it could result in an unknown/unwanted outcome. A lack of time and personal connection in appointments, and experiences of feeling judged, dismissed, or misunderstood, hindered young people’s ability to disclose mental health or relationship concerns. Participants reported variation in the timeliness and location of services, with salient examples of extensive waiting periods for braces. Participants perceived annual health reviews to be largely inconsequential.

Conclusions
Any primary care presentation by a care-experienced young person should trigger additional professional curiosity. To build rapport and trust, professionals should not underestimate the power of active listening, being reliable and honest, and small acts of thoughtfulness, for example, ensuring medical letters are provided promptly. Carers and other trusted professionals should help care-experienced young people to understand the role of primary care and support them with access. Health reviews may not be of value to all young people in care. Further research is needed to examine primary healthcare access for care-experienced young people with significant safeguarding and healthcare needs.
The experience of patients undergoing aseptic, elective revision knee joint replacement surgery: a qualitative study
Authors: Nicolson Philippa J. A. , Toye Francine , Sabah Shiraz A. , Price Andrew J. , Alvand Abtin , Barker Karen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Around 6,000 revision knee replacement procedures are performed in the United Kingdom each year. Three-quarters of procedures are for aseptic, elective reasons, such as progressive osteoarthritis, prosthesis loosening/wear, or instability. Our understanding of how we can best support these patients undergoing revision knee replacement procedures is limited. This study aimed to explore patients’ experiences of having a problematic knee replacement and the impact of undergoing knee revision surgery for aseptic, elective reasons.

Methods
Qualitative semi structured interviews with 15 patients (8 women, 7 men; mean age 70 years: range 54–81) who had undergone revision knee surgery for a range of aseptic, elective indications in the last 12 months at an NHS Major Revision Knee Centre. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, de-identified and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results
We developed six themes: Soldiering on; The challenge of navigating the health system; I am the expert in my own knee; Shift in what I expected from surgery; I am not the person I used to be; Lingering uncertainty.

Conclusions
Living with a problematic knee replacement and undergoing knee revision surgery has significant impact on all aspects of patients’ lives. Our findings highlight the need for patients with problematic knee replacements to be supported to access care and assessment, and for long-term psychological and rehabilitation support before and after revision surgery.
Design specifications and capabilities of a 3D simulation software for clinical education of physiotherapy students in the neurology department
Authors: Rezayi Sorayya , Ghotbi Nastaran , Shahmoradi Leila , Ardali Zakiyeh Raisi , Choobsaz Haniyeh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Introduction
In this revolutionized era, thanks to cutting-edge technological breakthroughs like 3-dimensional (3D) computerized environments, physiotherapy trainers can improve their knowledge and confidence by using such training tools. Hence, there is room for developing these technologies for training medical students to expand their skills and expertise. This study aims to identify the design requirements and key functionalities of a 3D simulation software for the clinical education of physiotherapy students in neurology departments.

Method
First, by carefully reviewing neurological books, scientific articles, curriculum, and medical records, and consulting with experts, a scenario was compiled. In the next step, a researcher-developed questionnaire was designed. Then, experts’ opinions were considered to confirm the validity and reliability of the questionnaire. The designed questionnaire was distributed among several neurological physiotherapists. Finally, the information elements, contents, and functional capabilities of the 3D software were determined by analyzing the data obtained from the questionnaire.

Findings
The main components for the design of physiotherapy educational software were identified based on the findings of the literature review, curriculum analysis, and medical record review. A survey of physiotherapy professors was conducted using a questionnaire created by the researcher in order to enhance the capabilities of simulation software and ascertain its primary functions. Following an analysis of the data from the distributed questionnaire, 37 essential features and contents have been proven to be more crucial than the rest for the creation of 3D simulation software. As a result, the essential and fundamental needs for the patient’s training in reading their medical records and performing muscle strength assessments were recognized and extracted. Based on these findings, a researcher-developed scenario for the various real cases was then established. In the patient’s medical record reading scenario, the student is required to read the patient’s record in text format. Similarly, in the section on cranial nerves, pictures are utilised to reinforce the student’s assessment skills in addition to textual content. Together with the audio and pop-up texts, the simulated 3D environment also offers training for the assessment of muscle strength.

Conclusion
As an educational tool, this software can enhance students’ learning and assist in addressing the drawbacks of conventional teaching methods like lectures and hospital visits.