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The Link Between ADHD and Bowel Problems in Children

 While ADHD primarily affects a child’s cognitive and behavioural functions, research has shown that a potential connection between ADHD and bowel problems, such as chronic constipation, faecal incontinence, and bedwetting. In this article, we will explore this link and discuss ways to alleviate these symptoms in children with ADHD. 

 

1. Chronic Constipation: Children with ADHD often experience chronic constipation, which can lead to discomfort. The constipation may be related to neurological and physiological processes in the digestive system not working well. Chronic constipation can increase ADHD symptoms due to the discomfort that the child is feeling. 

2. Faecal incontinence: faecal incontinence can be a distressing problem for children with ADHD. This symptom may result from the inability to recognize and respond to the body’s signals due to ADHD-related impulsivity or inattention. Faecal incontinence can further impact a child’s self-esteem and social interactions. 

3. Bed Wetting: Bedwetting, often associated with ADHD, can be embarrassing and disruptive to a child’s life. It can be related to ADHD’s impact on a child’s ability to wake up in response to a full bladder. This issue can lead to added stress and negatively impact a child’s self-confidence. 

 

Ways to Treat or Alleviate the Symptoms of ADHD and bowel problems

 

Addressing the gastrointestinal symptoms in children with ADHD is important to improve their overall well-being. Here are some strategies: 

1. Consult a paediatrician: The first step should be to consult with a paediatrician. Medical professionals can provide guidance on suitable treatments or interventions. 

2. Dietary and Lifestyle Changes: Some dietary and lifestyle modifications can help alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. Increasing fibre intake, ensuring proper hydration, and maintaining a regular meal schedule can positively impact constipation and incontinence. 

3. Behavioural Interventions: behavioural therapies, often used to manage ADHD, can be adapted to address gastrointestinal issues. 

4. Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage gastrointestinal symptoms. Laxatives, for instance, can help alleviate constipation, and bedwetting may be treated with medications such as desmopressin. 

5. Addressing ADHD: treating the underlying ADHD can improve gastrointestinal symptoms. Effective ADHD management through counselling, behavioural therapy, or medication can enhance a child’s ability to focus on their bowel and bladder functions. 

 

The connection between ADHD and bowel problems in children is a complex and emerging field of study. While more research is needed to fully understand this relationship, it is clear that these symptoms can significantly impact a child’s life. The good news is that there are strategies available to help alleviate these symptoms and improve a child’s overall quality of life. By consulting with medical professionals, making dietary and lifestyle changes, and addressing the underlying ADHD, parents and caregivers can offer vital support to children who are coping with these challenges. Consult your doctor to find out how you can help your child in dealing with their gastrointestinal problems. 

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ADD and ADHD Experts

 ADHD presents many challenges, but it is essential to recognize that a team of experts can significantly reduce the symptoms and empower children to lead fulfilling lives. In this article, we’ll explore the essential components of a comprehensive support system for children with ADHD and how organizations like Catch Up Kids can make a significant impact. The first step in empowering children with ADHD is to create a tailored treatment plan that accommodates their unique needs. Each child with special needs is different, so it’s crucial to have a team of ADD & ADHD experts, including paediatricians, psychologists, and educators, working together to determine the most effective strategies. The primary goal is to provide a supportive environment that aids in the child’s development while managing their ADHD symptoms. 

 

At Catch Up Kids, we understand the importance of a holistic approach to ADHD management. We actively collaborate with your child’s school to facilitate the child’s learning and development. This support extends to parents as well, equipping them with the necessary knowledge needed to provide a nurturing environment at home. The liaison between the parents and the school and Catch Up Kids, ensures that the child receives consistent care and understanding. 

 

Equipping your child with essential life skills is our number one priority at Catch Up Kids.

 

These skills include: 

1. Executive Functioning Skills: These skills help children plan, organize, and complete tasks. Catch Up Kids offers specialized training to enhance executive functioning skills, making it easier for children to manage their daily lives. 

2. Motor Skills: Improving fine and gross motor skills can help children with ADHD participate in physical activities and develop better coordination. 

3. Adaptive Skills: These skills help children become more self-sufficient, teaching them to manage daily tasks like personal hygiene and self-care effectively. 

4. Social Skills: Social skills are vital in building relationships. Children with ADHD may struggle understanding social cues, and the programme at Catch Up kids will assist your child with navigating social situations with confidence. 

5. Cognition: Enhancing cognitive abilities to improve the child’s problem-solving and decision-making skills. 

 

Support at home and in the school setting is crucial for children with ADHD. Catch Up Kids’ school facilitation services are designed to bridge the gap between home and school, this coordination between home and school is essential for the child’s progress. By focusing not only on symptom management but also on developing critical life skills, Catch Up Kids goes beyond the conventional approach to ADHD care. If you are looking to empower your child, don’t hesitate to reach out to Catch Up Kids. Our expertise and tailored programs can make a significant difference in your child’s life, helping them overcome the challenges of ADHD. 

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ADHD and Temper Tantrums

 Dealing with emotional outbursts and tantrums is a significant challenge when it comes to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This article is meant to shed light on the connection between ADHD and temper tantrums, explore the reasons behind these outbursts, and provide practical strategies for managing ADHS. These emotional outbursts are typically characterized by intense displays of frustration, anger, and sometimes even physical aggression. 

The connection between ADHD and Tantrums 

 

Understanding the relationship between ADHD and temper tantrums is crucial for effective management. Tantrums can be triggered by a variety of factors, some of which are more prevalent in children with ADHD: 

1. Executive Function Deficits: ADHD is often associated with executive function deficits, which include difficulties in impulse control, emotional regulation, and problem-solving. These deficits can contribute to the tantrums as children with ADHD struggle to manage their emotions and reactions. 

2. Sensory Overload: some individuals with ADHD are sensitive to sensory stimuli, such as noise, lights, or touch, which can trigger overwhelming emotional reactions. Sensory overload can trigger emotional outbursts, as individuals with ADHD may find it challenging to cope with the sensory input around them. 

3. Impulsivity: Due to difficulties with sustained attention and task completion, individuals with ADHD may experience frequent frustration and impatience. This frustration can escalate into tantrums when they encounter obstacles or challenges. 

4. Social and Academic Struggles: ADHD can affect a person’s ability to succeed academically and socially, leading to feelings of inadequacy and frustration. These emotional struggles can manifest as tantrums when individuals face difficulties at school or in social interactions. 

Strategies for Managing Tantrums in Individuals with ADHD 

 

1. Create a Structured Routine: Having a predictable daily routine can help individuals with ADHD feel more in control, reducing the likelihood of tantrums triggered by unexpected changes. 

2. Teach Emotional Regulation: Working with the child to develop strategies for managing emotions, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or counting to ten before reacting to a situation. 

3. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Help individuals with ADHD tackle tasks by breaking them into smaller, manageable steps. This can reduce frustration and increase their sense of accomplishment. 

4. Provide Positive Reinforcement: Reward positive behaviours and accomplishments for motivation. Positive reinforcement can be a powerful tool for promoting desired behaviours. 

5. Seek professional help: Consult with healthcare professionals, such as paediatricians, therapists, or psychiatrists, who specialize in ADHD. They will provide you with guidance on medication, therapy, or additional strategies for managing ADHD-related tantrums. 

6. Create a supportive environment: Foster an environment that is understanding and patient and encourage open communication. Provide a safe space for your child to express their feelings without fear. 

ADHD-related tantrums can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, they can be managed and minimized. By creating a structured environment, teaching emotional regulation skills, and seeking professional guidance, when necessary, individuals with ADHD can learn to cope with their emotions more effectively. It’s important to remember that managing tantrums is a process that requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to helping individuals with ADHD. 

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Learning Disabilities Schools

Learners who have difficulty keeping up with mainstream schooling are often directed to schools that cater for learning disabilities. There are many reasons why learning disabilities arise. They can be caused by developmental delays associated with Autism, Asperges, Downs Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, ADD, ADHD etc. Learning disabilities can be caused by physical delays associated with poor vision, motor issues, seizures, hearing loss etc. They can concurrently be attributed to emotional setbacks such as abuse and neglect. Learners with learning disabilities are identified through a medical professional or learning disabilities schools who refers parents and their children to a medical professional. These learning disabilities impede on a child’s ability to cope with the school’s curriculum. To further expand, the following developmental and physical delays can cause some of the following learning disabilities:

The inability to sustains one’s attention to what is being taught in the classroom. This can include simple concepts or concepts that require a variety of steps. This causes further implications as the learner is therefore unable to recall what is being relayed or retain what is being taught.

 

      • The inability to copy what is being presented on the chalkboard or projector.
      • The inability to comprehend the questions posed and by extension providing answers to the questions posed.
      • The inability to imitate peers due to a lack of imitation skills which impedes on incidental learning.
      • The inability to form interpersonal relationships with the teacher or peer which prevent the learner from incidental learning through play.
      • The inability to read or write due to weak motor skills and impaired vision.
      • The list is unfortunately endless.

Learning disabilities are rife and affect a child’s ability to keep up academically. The best outcome is to find a school that caters to learning disabilities. They are equipped to best assist a learner with the difficulties and challenges they face. The school (that provides for learning disabilities) should isolate why the learner is experiencing challenges with learning. Sometimes it is imperative that a diagnosis is made to prepare the school on how to manage each learners needs. When a student has a learning disability, it is important to be sensitive towards them so as to not impair on their self-esteem and self-confidence. The teacher in this school setting is responsible for making sure that a learner who possesses learning disabilities are comfortable in their newly placed environment to promote effective learning.

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Remedial Tutoring

The term “remedial” stems from the term “to remedy”. This is not the implication that the deficits the child presents due to developmental and learning disabilities can be cured, but rather the assistance to manage these life-impacting symptom. The true aim of remedial tutoring to improve core learning skills to the point where learning and completing daily tasks is not a debilitating process for the child. Remedial teaching can take place one-on-one, or in small groups. 

This is not only a process of teaching, but also the focus of teaching essential developmental skills that may not come naturally to the child. Remedial tutoring is a one-on-one teaching method for children who may need additional educational support. Remedial tutors range from being very hands on- seeing the child frequently to recap what they have been learning in other avenues of their education- or used as an additional support tool when needed. 

Remedial tutoring is one of the many holistic tools available that can better the quality of life for the child with the developmental condition. 

Unlike occupational therapy, there is focus on motor skills, coordination, muscle development, and generalised life skills, but it is important to note that both these practices develop the areas of the brain that are responsible for structure, organising information, pre-handwriting/handwriting skills, comprehension, language, and numeracy skills.

The remedial tutor is frequently in contact with the child’s teacher in order to clearly understand which areas of the child’s education must be focused on. It also allows the tutor to know when certain class work needs to be caught up on. The tutor can help the learner understand what’s expected of them academically and help them understand the steps and goals needed for them to complete their tasks and reach their potential. 

For older children or teenagers, remedial tutoring can also include teaching the child how to study, how to summarise, revise, and take their examinations or tests. The tutor may also be present during the child’s examination to either help them with the reading or writing aspects of taking the test. The tutor may supervise an examination in which the student has extra-time needs. 

When searching for a remedial tutor, there are some things to look for, and some things to avoid. Avoid tutors that believe that remedial tutoring can “cure” the child from their disorder. The disorder will always be present in the child’s life, but the tutor must understand that the goal is to teach the child fundamental learning skills for them exist and learn in a way that does not constantly cause excessive distress. 

Avoid tutors that use punishment to “fix” mistakes. Rather, find a tutor that focuses on firmly correcting the child’s error by making them aware of the mistake, letting them know it is okay to make mistakes, and encouraging them to try again. 

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R*****n ADHD Medication

R*****n ADHD Medication is a stimulant, immediate release medication that has both a long acting and a short-acting form. The dosage, and whether the R*****n ADHD Medication prescribed is long or short acting, is all determined by the doctor depending on the specific child’s needs  R*****n ADHD Medication was created in the 1944 for the purpose of increasing concentration and work-load management skills. 

Children with ADHD often need a lot more external stimulation in order for their internal world to feel balance and focused. If under stimulated, a child could act out with hyperactive symptoms, such as: interrupting sentences, fidgeting, talking quickly, and being clumsy; or inattentive symptoms such as zoning out, making careless mistakes, and being unable to concentrate in the task at hand. The ‘molecule’ of the medication very quickly impacts the nervous system, resulting in increased concentration. This medication treats both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms of ADHD.  R*****n ADHD Medication works by releasing dopamine in order to increase stimulation in the brain that can assist the child with being mentally stimulated enough to participate in the task presented to them. 

If you suspect your child has ADHD, or if you have a diagnosis, speaking to your family doctor could be the next step in assisting your child with needs that are specific to them.  

Children with ADHD are unique, and there are so many holistic, and pharmaceutical choices that can be implemented to help them reach their greatest potential. 

Every person has different brain-chemistry, so some children display more side effects than others. Some side effects of R*****n ADHD Medication include nervousness, irritability, increased heart rate, and appetite suppression. The appetite suppression can lead to the person with ADHD being a picky-eater, so nutritional supplements to support the child alongside taking R*****n ADHD Medication will also yield the full positive impact of ADHD stimulant medication. A lesser-known symptom of R*****n ADHD Medication is that it can deplete magnesium, a mineral responsible for nervous system and muscle function. For those who do not have ADHD but take R*****n ADHD Medication, there seem to be few benefits, and can decrease in problem-solving skills.

R*****n ADHD Medication does not cure ADHD, and although it may improve symptoms, it is not the only solution for ADHD, Diet, exercise, occupational and speech therapy, tutoring programs, schedules, and support are also essential for the child with ADHD to learn to manage this life-long condition.  

R*****n ADHD Medication, if taken as prescribed, actually decreases addictive tendencies that people with ADHD are more predisposed to, due to its impact on managing impulsivity, 

Putting their child on stimulant medication may be a scary process to many parents, but with medical assistance, parental observation and support, as well as weighing up the child’s needs, this can be a safe and life-changing method of managing ADHD. 

Article by: A. Pascoe (2023)

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ADHD and Gut Health

 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a condition that is a neurodevelopmental condition which is characterised by symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. These symptoms disrupt the daily functioning of children. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown; however, research shows that there are contributing factors for the increased severity of the symptoms of ADHD in children. One of the contributing factors is the presence of a larger microbiome in the gut, Research also shows that there is an association between microbiome and a leaky gut. In individuals with ADHD, there appears to be an imbalance in the gut microbiota composition, with a lower diversity of beneficial bacteria and an overgrowth of harmful strains. This may contribute to inflammation and increase the severity of ADHD symptoms. There is a direct link between ADHD and gut health and brain health. A holistic approach that includes dietary adjustments, stress management, and gut health optimization can complement traditional treatments and improve overall well-being is important in alleviating the symptoms of ADHD. 

Parents should work closely with healthcare professionals to tailor a personalized plan that addresses both the neurological and gut-related aspects of this condition, ultimately fostering a path towards enhanced focus and improved quality of life. Paying close attention to your child’s diet is important to reduce the severity of ADHD. Unfortunately, there is no cure for ADHD, but dietary modifications can make a significant difference. 

Some key dietary recommendations include: 

1. Adding foods rich in omega 3: e.g., flaxseeds, salmon, walnuts, etc. These are known to support cognitive function. 

2. Avoiding sugar and food additives: artificial food colourings, preservatives, and additives. 

3. Blood Sugar Stabilization: Eating regular, balanced meals and snacks can help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing mood swings and irritability. 

4. Fiber: Consuming a diet high in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support gut health and regular bowel movements. 

5. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for digestive health. Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation and maintain gut balance. 

Introducing probiotics for gut support

One of the ways you can aid your child’s gut issues, is to put them on probiotics supplements. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help restore and maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Research suggests a potential link between gut health and ADHD symptoms, making probiotics a promising treatment for management. These beneficial bacteria can be obtained through probiotic supplements or by incorporating fermented foods. By promoting a healthier gut microbiome, probiotics may contribute to improved overall well-being and possibly play a role in reducing some of the gastrointestinal issues often associated with ADHD. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare 

professional before introducing any new supplements or dietary changes to your child’s routine. 

With the help of a healthcare professional, parents can create a well-balanced diet and treatment plan for their children. It is important to test for allergies and foods that may lead to gut inflammation. Every child is different and what may work for one child might not work for another. 

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ADHD and Its Symptoms

 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can disrupt daily functioning. ADHD is diagnosed by psychologists, paediatricians, and psychiatrists. A diagnosis of ADHD and its symptoms can impede a child’s academic progress, causing the child to not do well at school. This may result in teachers recommending that the child repeats the grade. 

It is important to understand that ADHD symptoms vary among individuals, but it is generally classified into two primary types: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. Symptoms include: 

1. Lack of sustained attention: Difficulty with paying attention, frequently making too many mistakes, difficulty organizing tasks, forgetfulness and losing items. 

2. Hyperactivity: restlessness, fidgeting, and excessive talking. 

3. Impulsivity: impatient behaviour, interrupting others, and difficulty with patience. 

When left untreated, ADHD can have profound consequences. In children, it can lead to academic difficulties, low self-esteem, and impaired social interactions. Untreated ADHD can also increase the risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. 

ADHD is not curable, but it is manageable. Treatment plans typically involve a combination of interventions tailored to the individual’s specific needs, these may include: 

1. Behavioural Therapy: Behavioural interventions teach individuals with ADHD strategies to improve focus, organization, and impulse control. These techniques help develop coping skills for daily life. 

2. Educational Support: In children, teachers and school counselors can implement classroom accommodations and support to help manage symptoms. This may include a modified curriculum or extra time for assignments. 

3. Medication for ADHD: In some cases, stimulant medications are prescribed to manage ADHD symptoms effectively. However, for individuals who do not respond well to stimulants or have contraindications, non-stimulant medications may be recommended. 

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging healthy habits such as getting adequate sleep, engaging in regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet and practicing stress management can significantly contribute to better ADHD symptom management. 

At Catch Up Kids, we provide educational support to children with ADHD to assist them with managing the symptoms of ADHD in their day-to-day lives. We design individualized programmes that serve to assist the child with the academic pressures that they face. The programme is not only limited to assisting the child with their academics but also assists in addressing any skills deficits that the child has. Our expert tutors are available to do sessions at one of our centres, at your home or at your child’s school. To find out more about the services offered at Catch Up Kids, contact us today! 

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ADHD and School Challenges

The challenges caused by ADHD that children face when in the classroom setting, can delay progress and cause the child to produce work that is not on par with their grade requirements. Understanding the symptoms that autism presents and how to manage these symptoms is essential for parents and educators alike. To foster an environment that is conducive for the child to learn and to help manage ADHD and school challenges, it is important for teachers to acknowledge the unique needs that children with special needs have. 

Most children diagnosed with ADHD struggle with the following: 

1. Lack of Attention: One of the hallmark symptoms of ADHD is inattention. Students with ADHD may find it challenging to focus on lessons, tasks, or assignments for sustained periods. This can lead to missed instructions and incomplete work. 

2. Irritability: Students with ADHD may become easily frustrated or overwhelmed in a classroom environment, especially when tasks require prolonged concentration. This irritability can affect their interactions with teachers and peers. 

3. Inability to Follow Instructions: Processing verbal instructions and organizing tasks can be particularly challenging for students with ADHD. They may struggle to follow multi-step directions, leading to difficulties in completing assignments or staying on track during lessons. 

In most mainstream schools, educators are not trained to work with children with neurodevelopmental issues. To accommodate children with learning challenges, these are the schooling options that parents can opt for: 

1. A mainstream school with special education services and individualized accommodations to help them succeed. 

2. A remedial school with a smaller class size and a more structured environment, which can provide additional support. 

3. A special needs school in the case that the child’s ADHD is accompanies by another disability. A special needs school specializes in providing tailored education and support for students with a range of disabilities. 

Benefits of an individualised education Programme: 

Catch Up Kids designs individualized education programmes for children with learning challenges. Catch Up Kids also provides school facilitation services. We will assign a team of expert tutors who are trained to work with children with special needs, and a case manager to supervise the child’s programme. The benefits of having an individualised education programme designed by Catch Up Kids include: 

1. Extended Time and support: Providing extra time for assignments, tests, or exams to accommodate slower processing and to provide the child with the necessary support. 

2. Frequent Break: Allowing short, frequent breaks to help students manage restlessness and refocus. 

3. Reduced Distractions: Creating a quiet and organized workspace within the classroom. 

4. Modifying assignments: Simplifying or breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps. 

5. Behavioural Interventions: Implementing strategies to address impulsive behaviour and improve self-regulation. 

6. Regular Communication: Maintaining open communication between teachers, parents, and special education staff to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. Having frequent meetings to discuss the child’s progress. 

Navigating school with ADHD can be difficult, but with the right support and strategies, students with ADHD and school challenges can thrive academically. Whether in mainstream, remedial, or special needs schools, the key is to create an inclusive and understanding learning environment. An individualized play a pivotal role in tailoring education to meet the specific needs of each student, ensuring they receive the necessary accommodations and support to overcome the challenges associated with ADHD. To find out more about the services we provide, contact Catch Up Kids today! 

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Speech therapy for ADHD

Speech therapy  for ADHD is a well-known form of learning therapy in which a trained speech therapist will determine the deficits in the child’s speech, and then use a combination of pronunciation practice, strengthening the muscles used for speech, and learning to speak in the correct way. 

Speech therapy is also known as being incredibly beneficial for assisting children with ADHD and allowing them to overcome some language and communication difficulties that tend to come along with the ADHD diagnosis. 

Speech deficits in ADHD often show up as problems with articulating what they want to say, lesser speech fluency (the smoothness of how sounds, word, syllables, phrases, and sentences form in the child’s mouth), as well as reductions in the quality and tone of their voice when they speak. 

Teaching a child the skill to speak clearly, will also allow them to communicate with the confidence they need to do their personal best in social and academic areas of life. 

Some of the goals for speech therapy are often:

  • Improving attention skills: As attention deficits are the core of ADHD, tasks in speech therapy not only manage speech, but other skills that increase attention, such as: using visual clues, auditory skills, and practicing concentration in a less-distracting environment. 
  • The ability to maintain attention: With the same amount of time spent on the child each session, with similar activities in the same session, allows the child to have a sense of structure, and reduces the anxiety of not knowing what is about to happen. With this environment created, the child has the mental and emotional capacity to practice skills that may not come as naturally to them, such as paying attention for an extended period of time. This can also be encouraged and supported by their speech therapist, leading to a positive relationship between the therapist and child. 
  • Improving expressive language: Expressive language is the extent of the child’s capability to ask for objects they want, choices they may choose, questions they may ask, and questions they may not only answer, but describe. Any forms of gesturing, facial expressions, or writing are also parts of expressive language skills. Without these skills, a child cannot communicate what they want, need, or feel, and this can lead to a lot of distress on the child’s behalf as well as misunderstandings from caregivers. 

Ultimately, when speech therapists, occupational therapists, ABA therapists, parents, and doctors work along, each and every child will have the skills and the support that they need to thrive. 

Article by: A. Pascoe (2023)

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