Initial Confusion Research Articles

The emotional profile of Slovak freshmen in teaching English as a foreign language.

The article focuses on tracing changes in Slovak pre-service TEFL student teachers' emotional states over the first semester of their university study and detecting possible factors inciting their emotions. It highlights the importance of understanding these emotional states as they significantly impact students' perceptions of their suitability as educators. A mixed-methods approach was employed to collect qualitative and quantitative data through questionnaires, reflections, and interviews. The sample consisted of 67 non-native Slovak first-year TEFL students. It was found that the students experienced a range of emotions, from initial confusion and worry to eventual joy and contentment. Negative emotions were mainly triggered by the flood of new information and study-related factors, while positive emotions were associated with the supportive attitude of teachers and the freedom of university life.

Harris Hawk optimization driven adaptive image encryption integrating Hilbert vibrational decomposition and chaos

Image encryption is a technique used to protect the confidentiality of digital images. Existing encryption algorithms use chaotic maps for generating random sequences. These sequences purely depend on the fixed initial parameters, which are not adaptive to different input images, thereby limiting their ability to produce the best-possible encrypted image. This paper introduces a new Harris Hawk optimization (HHO) based adaptive image encryption algorithm that integrates Hilbert vibrational decomposition (HVD), and multiple chaotic maps. The new fitness function is specifically designed to optimize the security and robustness of the encrypted image, considering statistical and differential attack parameters (NPCR, UACI, Entropy, and correlation coefficient values). HHO is used to optimize the initial parameters of chaotic maps (Henon map, Duffing map, Lorenz equation) subject to variations in the input image. In the confusion stage, the input image is decomposed into four components of same dimension but decreasing energy using HVD. Subsequently, the block based pixel scrambling is performed on alternate components using the Henon map and Duffing map. In the diffusion stage, the image from the confusion stage undergoes a first level diffusion by bitwise XOR operation with a random image generated from the Lorenz equation. Further, second level of diffusion is achieved with a complex operation generated image from the input image, enhancing its adaptability. Finally, Arnold Cat map having number of iterations determined by the input image is used for final pixel permutation to produces the encrypted image. The optimized initial parameters and input image dependent confusion and diffusion operations enable the encryption system to adapt to changes in the input image, thereby enhancing its resistance against known plain text and known cipher text attacks. Moreover, the integration of HVD with multiple chaotic maps makes the scheme more complex to decrypt with plain text attacks. The performance of proposed algorithm is evaluated on five standard test images in terms of security and quality measures. Experimental results exhibit statistical and differential attack parameters close to ideal values (with Max. Entropy≈7.9996, Min. CC≈ 10−5, Max. NPCR≈99.64, Max. UACI≈33.62). The use of multiple chaotic maps at different stages makes the key space larger. Robustness analysis demonstrates the algorithm's capability in withstanding noise and image enhancement attacks. The comparison with state of the arts metaheuristic based and classical encryption algorithms highlights the superior performance of proposed HHO driven algorithm. The significant improvement in security parameters and overall fitness compared to fixed initial parameters is achieved by optimizing the encryption process.

Challenges and Benefits of Blended Learning in University EFL Reading Comprehension: A Mixed-Method Study

This study investigates the challenges and benefits experienced by students in the implementation of blended learning (BL) in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) reading classes. The research focuses on exploring the experiences of first year university students engaged in BL-based reading comprehension. Using a mixed-method approach, data was collected from 36 participants enrolled in a noncredit reading skills course integrated with a BL platform over 16-weeks. Participants completed a 16-item questionnaire, and a subset of ten students engaged in a focus group discussion to delve deeper into the challenges and benefits of BL. Descriptive statistics (e.g., frequency, percentages) were employed for quantitative data analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed through thematic identification. The findings revealed significant challenges including technology issues, language barriers, and initial confusion with BL tools. Participants emphasized the critical need for reliable technology infrastructure, support for digital literacy, and language assistance to mitigate these obstacles. Despite these challenges, participants acknowledged BL's advantages, particularly its flexibility and accessibility in enhancing reading comprehension. Recommendations arising from the study advocate for personalized learning paths, collaborative activities, clear communication, and ongoing assessment to optimize BL implementation. Thus, this research underscores BL's potential in improving reading skills, highlighting the imperative of tailored support to effectively address implementation challenges. The study could also become more thorough and broadly applicable to other Ethiopian universities by increasing the sample size and extending the intervention period.

Clinical, Immunological, and Genetic Features in Patients with NFKB1 and NFKB2 Mutations: a Systematic Review.

Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) encompass various diseases with diverse clinical and immunological symptoms. Determining the genotype-phenotype of different variants in IEI entity precisely is challenging, as manifestations can be heterogeneous even in patients with the same mutated gene. In the present study, we conducted a systematic review of patients recorded with NFKB1 and NFKB2 mutations, two of the most frequent monogenic IEIs. The search for relevant literature was conducted in databases including Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. Information encompassing demographic, clinical, immunological, and genetic data was extracted from cases reported with mutations in NFKB1 and NFKB2. The comprehensive features of manifestations in patients were described, and a comparative analysis of primary characteristics was conducted between individuals with NFKB1 loss of function (LOF) and NFKB2 (p52-LOF/IκBδ-gain of function (GOF)) variants. A total of 397 patients were included in this study, 257 had NFKB1 mutations and 140 had NFKB2 mutations.There were 175 LOF cases in NFKB1 and 122 p52LOF/IκBδGOF cases in NFKB2 pivotal groups with confirmed functional implications. NFKB1LOF and p52LOF/IκBδGOF predominant cases (81.8% and 62.5% respectively) initially presented with a CVID-like phenotype. Patients with NFKB1LOF variants often experienced hematologic autoimmune disorders, whereas p52LOF/IκBδGOF patients were more susceptible to other autoimmune diseases. Viral infections were markedly higher in p52LOF/IκBδGOF cases compared to NFKB1LOF (P-value < 0.001). NFKB2 (p52LOF/IκBδGOF) patients exhibited a greater prevalence of ectodermal dysplasia and pituitary gland involvement than NFKB1LOF patients. Most NFKB1LOF and p52LOF/IκBδGOF cases showed low CD19 + B cells, with p52LOF/IκBδGOF having more cases of this type. Low memory B cells were more common in p52LOF/IκBδGOF patients. Patients with NFKB2 mutations, particularly p52LOF/IκBδGOF, are at higher risk of viral infections, pituitary gland involvement, and ectodermal dysplasia compared to patients with NFKB1LOF mutations. Genetic testing is essential to resolve the initial complexity and confusion surrounding clinical and immunological features. Emphasizing the significance of functional assays in determining the probability of correlations between mutations and immunological and clinical characteristics of patients is crucial.

Boarding school syndrome and sibling relationships

A review of the literature on "boarding school syndrome" reveals very little about the impact on sibling attachments of children raised in a boarding school. Such children grow up as part of a multigenerational "sibling" and social group with its own rules and cultural norms. After initial confusion children adapt to living amongst strangers; whilst some flourish, many struggle to adapt to living in a group. This article revisits some of the interviews conducted when researching the book Boarding School Syndrome (Schaverien, 2015) with additional and more recent material. In the book there were stories of siblings separated by the stay of one, or both of them, in boarding school. The focus was on children who were sent away and the multiple losses suffered by these children. Here the aim is to focus on the psychological impact of being raised as a member of a large boarding school group, and on sibling relationships, including the immense losses suffered by sibling(s) left at home.

Acceptance and usability testing of a visual care-navigation tool for patients, survivors, caregivers, nurses, and oncologists.

e13064 Background: Breast cancer patients (BCP) and family caregivers (CG) describe their experience as a difficult hike, without access to a map, relevant gear, or a guide. The shrinking oncologist workforce has ~24 minutes per patient to communicate the condition, treatment plan and answer questions. Many use hand-drawn visuals – analogous to a map or process flow diagrams. 97% of BCP use Dr. Google™, which results in “Cancer Information Overload” and non-evidence-based activities. A team of survivors, cartographers, and oncologists developed an interactive cancer map and self-management platform to coach BCP to navigate treatment. Using equitable design, features include: (a) 7th grade reading level; (b) written content and audio/video assets; (c) supporting the user from diagnosis through survivorship to make the platform accessible to a diverse population. After acceptance testing showed high willingness to use &amp; recommend (ASCO Quality 2023;552), we tested the platform’s usability through observed use and task-analysis. Methods: A convenience sample of BCP, CG and oncology HCP [including advanced practice providers (APP)] underwent a usability test in two waves. We defined a set of tasks the users should be able to accomplish. We observed the users during a 30-minute virtual session and recorded the session, noted the task accomplishments, and any issues. Issues from wave 1 were addressed and incorporated into the test for wave 2. Results: We tested two waves of users between November 30, 2023 and February 1, 2024. The results are shown in the table. After wave 1, we modified the platform and tested the maps with wave 2 users. Two core usability features were added between waves: (a) user drill down to access a more detailed level of the map; (b) a product tour guiding the user through the tool, which addressed qualitative user observations that showed initial confusion as to how to begin navigation. Conclusions: Cartographically represented maps of the cancer journey and the self-management tools are acceptable to BCP, survivors, and CG and are usable. Per the ASCO Quality 2023;552 poster, the platform is acceptable to HCPs and not perceived to increase work, and APPs found value in the platform to enable education. Features have been added to ensure a diverse population can easily use the platform including guided walk through and welcome videos. [Table: see text]

Acute generalized peritonitis revealing an ovarian pregnancy: a case report

Introduction and importance: Abdominal pregnancy is still seen in developing countries due to inadequate medical facilities. The clinical indicators manifest in various forms and are nonspecific, making it challenging to diagnose and often leading to delayed detection. The occurrence of an infectious complication that leads to the development of generalised acute peritonitis is rare. The author present a case of 34-year-old patient who presented with febril generalised acute peritonitis caused by an abdominal pregnancy. The result of the abdominal ultrasound and the serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG) level led to initial diagnostic confusion. Case presentation: A 34-year-old primigravida with no medical or surgical history of comorbidity prior consulted in the authors’ department for generalised abdominal pain in the context of fever and amenorrhoea for more than 4 months. Physical examination revealed a painful and contracted abdomen. The biological assessment showed white blood cells at 27 100/ul, the haemoglobin level at 11.8 g/dl. The serum β-HCG level was less than 5 UI/l. The abdominal ultrasound noted a peritonitis secondary to an abscess of the appendix. Exploratory laparotmy revealed 200 ml of pus in the peritoneum and a mass in the right iliac fossa at the expense of the ovary with agglutination of the intestines loops. After adesyolysis, a single-piece excision of the mass was performed, the break-in showing a macerated foetus, a right adnexectomy and an appendectomy. The maternal outcome was good. Clinical discussion: Abdominal pregnancy remains an inadequately diagnosed condition in developing countries. This case reminds clinicians that abdominal pregnancy remains a differential diagnosis of all abdominal pain in a woman of childbearing age including when the serum β-HCG level was less than 5 UI/l. Conclusion: It is imperative to increase awareness among pregnant women about high-quality prenatal care, including early obstetric ultrasound, from conception. Meanwhile, healthcare professionals should receive continuous training and the technical platform modernised.

Keeping up with COVID-19 information: Capacity issues and knowledge uncertainty early in the pandemic.

This article examines the relationship between information consumption and mental health during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Adopting a qualitative approach, we interviewed 39 people in British Columbia, Canada between October and December 2020. Interestingly, half of the participants did not want to seek out new information on COVID-19, making their early insights and initial confusion salient. While some individuals did desire up-to-date information on outbreaks and new risks, many expressed confusion over what was perceived to be an evolving landscape of public health policy and practice. Overall, our research found that capacity issues, information overload/fatigue, politics, distrust, and competing sources of news all contributed to a culture of confusion towards public health information. As a consequence, this confusion resulted in knowledge uncertainty about the virus, vaccinations, and the pandemic itself. Our findings highlight the need for a host of future projects that examine how citizens experience disempowerment and limited agency towards compliance with health and safety initiatives.

Civilian Medical Responder Perspectives to a Federal Military Medical Deployment in New York City during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objectives This study aims to describe the civilian experience and perceptions of the patient coordination and management at the interface of the New York City (NYC) civilian and the military health systems during a large-scale public health emergency. Methods A qualitative study design was implemented with interviews conducted using a basic descriptive approach. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants with experience working during the first wave of COVID-19 in NYC. Inclusion criteria were civilians who worked at the Javits Center, the USNS Comfort, or NYC hospitals, who interfaced with patient transfer and military personnel during the city-wide medical response to COVID-19. Semi-structured video interviews were conducted between July 20, 2021 and March 11, 2022. Results Civilian responders working in the clinical and transfer operations of patients to military facilities in NYC during March and April of 2020 described initial confusion, as well as logistical (patient selection, transfer logistics, patient tracking), communication, and leadership challenges. While the military deployment was felt to be necessary to address the surge capacity in hospitals, the lack of clarity about military medical resources and frameworks for response resulted in confusion about what was being offered by the military deployment. This was balanced by the positive impression of working with military members and the resources that they brought to the response more generally. The need for future trainings and exercises were highlighted. Conclusions Initial challenges with civilian-military roles and responsibilities, regional needs assessment, patient selection, and logistics were ultimately resolved through adaptation of civilian and military leadership. Improvements in patient tracking, medical records, and standard hospital admission and discharge functions for patients in military alternative care facilities were identified as areas for improvement. Civilian government, health care, and military leaders should consider these ideas when planning for future military deployments in support of a domestic medical response.

An exploration of the ideological becoming of online educators

AbstractAs online education continues to proliferate that there is a need to understand how institutions can better support faculty in the transition to online education. Building on work that has suggested the importance of learning spaces for faculty to engage in discussion and reflection on their move to online education, this paper employs Bakhtin's notion of ideological becoming to provide a theoretically grounded understanding of how the design of such spaces can better facilitate this move. The paper reveals how learning spaces designed to develop critical awareness empower faculty to navigate discourses of online education, enabling them to build on their existing knowledge and skills as educators. The findings reveal how engaging faculty in critical dialogue can enable a cumulative shift in thinking from discussions dominated by authoritative discourses of online education that create an initial confusion between performance and pedagogy to the development of critical awareness that enables them to challenge dominant discourses and reconnect with the self as an experienced educator. The paper provides an important insight into an approach that might enable institutions to better support faculty buy‐in and acceptance of online education. Practitioner NotesWhat is already known about this topic Institutions struggle to understand how best to engage faculty in the transition to online education. A number of frameworks and models have been proposed to facilitate the transition, but these mostly take a managerial perspective. The transition to online teaching is most effective when supported by opportunities for faculty to engage in critical reflection and discussion. Less is known about how opportunities for critical reflection support the transition process and there is a need to theoretically ground such understanding. What this paper adds The paper draws on Bakhtin's notion of ideological becoming to explore how learning spaces for educator discussion and reflection can be used to facilitate the transition process. The findings show how learning spaces can be designed to enable faculty to develop the skills to navigate and challenge dominant discourses of online learning. The development of critical awareness among educators can also facilitate the development of educational practices for both classroom and online teaching. Implications for practice and/or policy The transition to online education is not an individual activity, but a collaborative and dialogical process. Faculty need time and space to critically challenge dominant discourses of online education and to re‐establish their existing skills and experience within an online context. This should not be a one‐off event but an ongoing process and conversation in a constantly changing and evolving higher education context. At the policy level, we should not expect online educational practice to be based on one approach or model, but to celebrate individuality and innovation.

The necessity for an integrated Emergency Operations Center (EOC) among first responders: Lesson learned from two Iranian railway accidents

IntroductionSeveral train accidents have occurred in Iran in the last twenty years, resulting in considerable loss of human lives. This study aims to investigate and analyze the response process and deficiencies thereof, of three responding organizations to two railway accidents in Iran. MethodsThe study was performed in 2 stages to examine the challenges faced by the first responders in the said accidents. In the first stage, a descriptive statistical analysis was conducted to estimate the injuries and loss of human lives. In the second stage, qualitative description (QD) was performed. Technical reports, official documents, and interviews contributed to the sources of primary data. Study participants were members of first responders who were interviewed. ResultsThe lack of key components like coordination, information-sharing, a single unified command between responders from different organizations, a lack of relief and rescue railway train, and poor inter-organizational interactions in the deployment of relief teams, were found to be the most important challenges. Discussion and conclusionThe analysis of these two accidents showed that the lack of an integrated emergency operations center (EOC) among the organizations involved in the emergency response appears to be the obvious cause of initial confusion and disruption in the response phase which caused a delay which proved fatal. Designing and developing an integrated response plan among responding organizations, preparing an information sharing network, centralized deployment of forces to the site of the accident, strengthening inter-organizational interactions in the form of an incident command system, designing, launching, and using rescue trains on rail routes and use of air emergency facilities in areas with poor accessibility can reduce mortality in future in similar kind of accidents.

Perceptions of and Attitudes toward COVID-19 Vaccination among Urban Slum Dwellers in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Vaccine hesitancy or low uptake was identified as a major threat to global health by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019. Vaccine hesitancy is context-specific and varies across time, place, and socioeconomic groups. In this study, we aimed to understand the perceptions of and attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination through time among urban slum dwellers in Dhaka, Bangladesh. In-depth telephone interviews were conducted between October 2020 and January 2021 with 36 adults (25 females and 11 males) living in three urban slums of Dhaka City, Bangladesh. Follow-up interviews were undertaken in April and August 2021 to capture any shift in the participants’ perceptions. Our findings show that for many there was an initial fear and confusion regarding the COVID-19 vaccine among people living in urban informal settlements; this confusion was soon reduced by the awareness efforts of government and non-government organizations. Women and young people were more interested in being vaccinated as they had had more exposure to the awareness sessions conducted by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and on social media. However, people living in the slums still faced systemic barriers, such as complicated online vaccine registration and long queues, which led to low uptake of the vaccine despite their increased willingness to be vaccinated. This study highlights the importance of using sources such as NGO workers and television news to debunk myths, disseminate COVID-19 vaccine information, and support adherence to vaccination among urban slum dwellers. Our study underscores the importance of addressing systemic barriers blocking access and understanding community perceptions in order to develop effective communication strategies for vulnerable groups that will then improve the COVID-19 vaccine uptake.

Comprehensive Reconstructive Care for Patients of All Gender Identities After Cancer of the Breast.

Breast cancer can affect anyone; therefore, it affects people of all gender identities. Reconstructive options after breast cancer must then address the needs of all people. Our institution is unique in its provision of both high-level comprehensive breast and gender affirmation care. In our practice, patients have expressed gender diverse identities during their breast cancer reconstructive journey. In these cases, goals have deviated from traditional breast restoration, gravitating toward gender-affirming mastectomy, or results often seen with "top surgery." We present a framework for the administration of breast cancer care and discussions of reconstruction from a lens of gender inclusivity. Breast cancer is a diagnosis that has been gendered, resulting in the erasure and exclusion of reconstructive needs for people affected by breast cancer that are not cisgender women. This is illustrated through the case of a nonbinary individual seen in breast cancer clinic for multifocal ductal carcinoma in situ. Our standard review of options of "going flat," implant-based reconstruction, and autologous reconstruction led to initial confusion given their early exploration of gender identity co-occurring with a new diagnosis of breast cancer. These scenarios can be challenging when viewed solely from the perspective of a breast reconstructive surgeon or a gender-affirming surgeon alone. Both perspectives are often needed. Our gender-affirming and breast reconstructive teams have discussed methods to identify patients who require more robust discussion of gender identity and reconstructive options in the setting of breast cancer, such as chest masculinization. By adding gender-affirming surgeons to the list of providers available to counsel breast cancer patients, we may be able to better provide early education on all reconstructive options and appropriately address the needs of transgender and gender diverse people affected by breast cancer.

Successes and challenges in implementing specifications grading in skills-based laboratory courses: Experiences at two colleges of pharmacy

Background and purposeSpecifications grading, a grading schema focused on mastery of skills, may provide an alternative to traditional grading. Specifications grading uses three components (pass/fail grading, bundles, and tokens) to allow students to demonstrate competency in specific areas as part of competency-based education. The purpose of this article is to outline specifications grading and review its implementation at two colleges of pharmacy. Educational activity and settingTwo colleges of pharmacy used specifications grading within a first-year skills-based laboratory course. Instructors identified key skills for each course and the minimum performance levels for each grade (A, B, C, etc.). Each college evaluated skills that aligned with course learning objectives. FindingsIncorporating specifications grading helped better align assignments and assessments to course learning objectives. Instructors felt specifications grading introduced more rigor into the course. Instructors identified four challenges when implementing specifications grading, including: (1) lack of integration into the learning management system, (2) initial student confusion, (3) modifications needed due to unforeseen circumstances, and (4) logistical issues when implementing token exchange. Many of these challenges can be overcome with instructor tracking of passed assignments and earned/redeemed tokens, periodic reinforcement of the grading schema with students, and creating flexibility within the course, especially the first time the schema is implemented. SummarySpecifications grading was successfully implemented in two skills-based courses. Challenges encountered with implementing specifications grading will be continually addressed. Implementation of specifications grading in other forms of course deliveries (e.g., electives, didactic) may require adjustment and further evaluation.

Automatic Extraction of Oculographic Signals as Digital Biomarkers for Alzheimer's Disease.

Similar to other neurological diseases, subtle early neurological changes that occur in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) are difficult to quantify and track objectively. One relevant bio-signal is eye movement, as it presents a unique window into cognitive processes as a direct measure of real-time inputs to the brain. Eye-tracking allows us to estimate timestamped activity of neural function and begin to infer and quantify attention, reprocessing (eg. word revisits), and many other aspects relevant to assessing AD. The goal of this study was to investigate the saccadic movements and trial progress during administration of the Stroop test in AD compared to normal controls. 5 AD subjects and 12 age-matched cognitively normal controls were recruited from the Johns Hopkins Memory and Alzheimer's Treatment Center and the Movement Disorders Clinic at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. An Eyelink Portable Duo in head-free-to-move mode was used to track eye movements. Movement of the eyes were analyzed by automatically segmenting saccade movements throughout a trial. We then analyzed the eye movements in the context of cognitive performance, by identifying when subjects progress to each word in the Stroop test. We compared the performance of each group using a Wilcoxon RankSum test with the SciPy package using Python. Preliminary results show that 60% (3/5) of AD subjects were unable to complete the Stroop task in 80 seconds. Individuals with AD had more saccades (p=0.105) with greater saccadic overshoot (p=0.092) and a greater maximum saccade velocity (p=0.035) on average compared to cognitively normal controls. AD subjects also took much longer to complete the first (p=0.114) and second lines (p=0.092) compared to healthy controls, suggesting initial confusion and hesitation. AD subjects change their gaze more often with greater speed and less precision than age-matched controls. These data demonstrate feasibility of using automatic quantitative evaluation of eye movements in AD. In the future, we will determine the utility of using this tool for early detection of AD and tracking its progression, along with combining other measures such as voice and handwriting (multimodal) to provide insights into early physiological changes in AD.

Understanding the association between admission source and in-hospital delirium: a cross-sectional study

Patients admitted via interhospital transfer (IHT) experience increased risk-adjusted mortality, adverse events, length of stay, and discharge to facility; however, the etiology is not well understood. We hypothesize that IHTs...

From Screening to the Receipt of Services: A Qualitative Examination

Research has focused on developing methods to facilitate screening and tracking data on social risk factors in healthcare settings. Less is known about the multiple factors that shape patients' acceptance of healthcare-based social risk programs. This qualitative study sought to elucidate the multilevel (individual, interpersonal, family/community, system, policy) factors that influence patients' acceptance of a healthcare-based social risk program within a Federally Qualified Health Center in New York City. Participants included 5 patients receiving care at the Federally Qualified Health Center who screened positive for social risks, 4 nurses who are responsible for conducting social risk screenings, and 5 Family Support Services counselors who conduct outreach to patients who screened positive. Interviews were conducted from March to June 2021 and analyzed from July to September 2021 using the constant comparative method. Analyses of the transcripts identified the following 3 themes: (1) Patients appreciated being asked about social risk factors, but there was a mismatch between their understanding of the screening process, their desire for assistance, and the support received. Although nurses and counselors described relationship-centered approaches to involve patients in the process, patients reported feeling initial discomfort and confusion; (2) Multilevel barriers inhibit patients' acceptance of assistance; and (3) Patient trust in the physician and healthcare organization serves as facilitators to acceptance. Patients' views about the purpose of a healthcare-based social risk program differed from nurses' and counselors' perspectives of the process. Although patients face multilevel challenges, strong trust in the physician and Family Health Centers served as facilitators to accepting healthcare-based assistance.

Mitologías navieras de Atacama

A totora reed raft has roamed Chilean archaeology since 1967. Biography over biography, from the original piece a new object was created, now virtual and different from its predecessor. The supposed miniature raft was consolidated over time as irrefutable evidence of the age of these vessels and of pre-Hispanic navigation in northern Chile and even in the Andes. The recent study of the object deposited at the Musée d'Ethnographie de Genève in Switzerland reveals that instead of a raft it is a bundle of plant fibers, a kind of artefact common in the funerary contexts of the Formative period in northern Chile, described as paintbrushes, brushes, combs or packs of raw materials. The initial confusion of the Jean-Christian Spahni and the reproduction of his later biographers serves as an input to discuss how archaeological evidence is constructed and how accounts are written in prehistory.

Crisis communication and linguistic diversity in Norway during the COVID-19 pandemic: Focus on interpreting and translation services

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected some inhabitants of Norway more than others. Even in the first wave, foreign-born immigrants had more confirmed infections and were hospitalized more frequently than other residents (Indseth et al., 2020). One factor seems to be a lack of information in languages other than Norwegian. Strategic communication of pandemic policies to those who do not speak Norwegian has not functioned on an operational or a grassroots level (NOU, 2021, p. 175). However, after some initial confusion, translations of government information become available on a multitude of platforms. Public service employees, NGOs, and mediators were involved in targeted information campaigns. This article traces the state of translation and interpretation, including availability, accessibility, acceptability, and adaptability, during the first year and a half of the Covid-19 pandemic (March 2020 – September 2021) in Norway. Among other issues, the article highlights the importance of making translation and interpreting essential services in future contingency plans.

The New “Normal”: Online Tools for In‐Person Learning in the Molecular Life Sciences

In the spring of 2020, the world experienced one of the worst pandemics in a century, forcing educators to almost immediately shift from on campus to online instruction. Given that most universities were largely built for teaching in person, the transition to distance learning required a rapid expansion of internet infrastructure and the mid‐semester implementation of online instructional tools. After the initial shock, confusion, and adjustment experienced in the spring of 2020, the continuation of the pandemic led many institutions to maintain a predominantly online or hybrid instruction model for the 2021 academic year. Although not as rushed as the previous semester, many faculty members were still trying to navigate the online landscape and adjust their curriculum to meet course objectives as defined during pre‐pandemic times. With universities inviting students back into the classroom and departments shifting more activities back to campus in the current academic year, we wanted to see what, if any, processes or activities implemented because of the pandemic would be retained or expanded post‐pandemic, specifically looking from the perspective of biochemists, molecular biologists, and science administrators. This feedback included information about alterations to in‐person instruction, communication with students outside of the classroom or laboratory, student assessment, additional educational opportunities that were not easily accessible previously, and enhanced research collaborations. Our conclusion is that, while few faculty members were interested in maintaining a primarily online format in future semesters, some distance learning tools were transferable to in‐person instruction and, in fact, enhanced the in‐person experience.