bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immersive Virtual Reality Simulation for Learning Fundamental Nursing Skills
Authors: Wong Irene Yuen Fung , Kwok Tyrone Tai On , Leung Leona Yuen Ling , Lam Yvonne Hon Ling , So Gary Long Hei
Published: June 2024

Background:

Literature showed that learners’ perceived usability and perspective toward a technology application affected their learning experience. Fewer studies have investigated immersive virtual reality (IVR) simulation learning of fundamental nursing skills learning (FNSL).

Purpose:

The aim of the study was to explore the perceived usability of IVR simulations for FNSL among first-year nursing students and their perspectives toward this learning modality.

Methods:

This study used a mixed-methods design with an educational intervention. Sixty-five first-year nursing students participated in 2 IVR simulation procedures in complementary mode. Surveys and focus groups were conducted in the postintervention period.

Results:

The findings demonstrated students’ positive inclinations toward IVR simulation learning. Two areas emerged: using IVR simulation as a complementary modality for FNSL and barriers affecting students’ perceived usability toward this technology.

Conclusions:

With addressing the concerns from students’ perceived usability, immersive virtual reality simulation could be a potential complementary modality for FNSL.
Musical Activity Engagement, Depressive Symptoms, Physical Activity, and Cognitive Function in People With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kim Jeeyeon , Cuevas Heather
Published: June 2024

Background

Music interventions have beneficial effects on cognitive function and related risk factors, such as depressive symptoms and behavior of exercise participation. However, little research has been conducted on music’s effects on people with type 2 diabetes, and evidence of the effect remains inconclusive in this population.

Objectives

Guided by the theory of music, mood, and movement (MMM), this exploratory study aimed to examine the direct and indirect effects of musical activity engagement, depressive symptoms, and physical activity on cognitive function in people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The present study is a secondary data analysis using the cross-sectional data collected from the Memory, Attention, and Problem-Solving Skills for Persons with Diabetes trial conducted between 2021 and 2023. Data were collected using self-reported questionnaires and a computerized cognitive assessment tool. A total of 189 people with type 2 diabetes and subjective cognitive decline were included in the study. Path analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS AMOS to examine the pathways of the proposed conceptual framework.

Results

The study results partially support the MMM model for subjective cognitive function but not objective cognitive function. The path model demonstrated the significant direct effects of musical activity engagement on physical activity, physical activity on subjective cognitive function, and depressive symptoms on physical activity as well as on subjective cognitive function. There was a significant indirect effect of musical activity engagement on subjective cognitive function through physical activity—which fully mediated this relationship. However, no significant direct effect of musical activity engagement on depressive symptoms and subjective cognitive function was found.

Discussion

The findings suggest that regular assessment of the presence of depressive symptoms and physical activity participation should be done in people with type 2 diabetes to identify potential modifiable factors and develop targeted interventions for cognitive health promotion. Also, our findings provide insights into the potential use of music to facilitate physical activity and manage cognitive health in people with type 2 diabetes. This study partially supports the MMM model; however, more research with a rigorous study design and larger sample size is needed to better understand the relationships among musical activity engagement, depressive symptoms, physical activity, and cognitive function.
Open tibial shaft fracture fixation strategies: intramedullary nailing, external fixation, and plating
Authors: Shen Michelle , Tejwani Nirmal
Published: June 2024

Tibial shaft fractures are one of the most common orthopaedic injuries. Open tibial shaft fractures are relatively common because of the paucity of soft tissue surrounding the bone. Despite the prevalence of these injuries, the optimal fixation strategy is still a topic of debate. The purpose of this article was to review the current literature on open tibial shaft fracture fixation strategies including intramedullary nailing, external fixation, and plating.
A Possible Mechanism of Laryngohyoid Fractures in Hanging
Authors: Meredith Matt , Harris Peter , Day Christopher , Milne Nathan , Watkins Trevor , Ong Beng Beng
Published: June 2024

Fractures of the hyoid bone, particularly the greater horns, and thyroid cartilage (superior horns) are known to be associated with hanging deaths. Depending on the literature, the frequency of these fractures varies from 0% to 83%. The mechanism underlying these fractures is believed to be direct compression or indirect traction from the ligature. The relationship of these structures with the cervical spine cannot be visualized with traditional internal examination, due to obstruction by surrounding soft tissue. Postmortem computed tomography scan offers an unobscured view of the relationship of the laryngohyoid structures with the cervical spine.

We aim to illustrate the phenomenon of displacement of the laryngohyoid structures associated with fractures of the horns. In our case reports, the laryngohyoid structures were displaced, not only superiorly and posteriorly, but also in 2 of the cases, by tilting, when the suspension point was at the posterior or posterolateral aspect of the neck. This displacement had caused the greater horns of the hyoid bone and superior horns of the thyroid cartilage to be approximated against the cervical spine, particularly the transverse processes. We believe that, in these circumstances, the fractures were caused by pressure of the horns of the laryngohyoid structures against the cervical spine.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of SPECT Imaging in Patients With Suspected Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Bang Ji-In , Lee Won Woo , Cho Sang-Geon , Choi Miyoung , Song Yoo Sung
Published: June 2024

Background

This meta-analysis and systematic review assessed the diagnostic accuracy of lung SPECT compared with lung planar imaging in patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism (PE) or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

Patients and Methods

A search of Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases identified suitable articles published before October 2023. Meta-analyses were performed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of SPECT imaging modalities, including perfusion (Q) SPECT, ventilation (V)/Q SPECT, Q SPECT/CT, and V/Q SPECT/CT. Network meta-analyses were performed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of SPECT and planar imaging in paired-design studies.

Results

Twenty-four articles (total n = 6576) were included in the analysis. For suspected acute PE, the respective sensitivity and specificity of SPECT imaging modalities were as follows: Q SPECT, 0.93 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.87–0.99; I
2 = 49%) and 0.72 (95% CI, 0.54–0.95; I
2 = 94%); V/Q SPECT, 0.96 (95% CI, 0.94–0.98; I
2 = 51%) and 0.95 (95% CI, 0.92–0.98; I
2 = 80%); Q SPECT/CT, 0.93 (95% CI, 0.87–0.98; I
2 = 66%) and 0.82 (95% CI, 0.70–0.96; I
2 = 87%); and V/Q SPECT/CT, 0.97 (95% CI, 0.93–1.00; I
2 = 7%) and 0.98 (95% CI, 0.97–1.00; I
2 = 31%). The relative sensitivity and specificity of SPECT compared with planar imaging were 1.17 (95% CI, 1.06–1.30; P < 0.001) and 1.14 (95% CI, 1.00–1.29; P = 0.05), respectively. For suspected chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, the pooled sensitivity and specificity of SPECT imaging were 0.97 (95% CI, 0.95–1.00; I
2 = 0%) and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.87–0.94; I
2 = 0%), respectively.

Conclusions

SPECT exhibited superior diagnostic performance for PE. V/Q SPECT/CT was the most accurate modality.
The role of sex hormones in aldosterone biosynthesis and their potential impact on its mineralocorticoid receptor
Authors: Vecchiola Andrea , Uslar Thomas , Friedrich Isidora , Aguirre Joaquin , Sandoval Alejandra , Carvajal Cristian A. , Tapia-Castillo Alejandra , Martínez-García Alejandra , Fardella Carlos E.
Published: June 2024

Blood pressure (BP) regulation is a complex process involving various hormones, including aldosterone and its mineralocorticoid receptor. Mineralocorticoid receptor is expressed in several tissues, including the kidney, and plays a crucial role in regulating BP by controlling the sodium and water balance. During different stages of life, hormonal changes can affect mineralocorticoid receptor activity and aldosterone levels, leading to changes in BP. Increasing evidence suggests that sex steroids modulate aldosterone levels. Estrogens, particularly estradiol, mediate aldosterone biosynthesis by activating classical estrogen receptors and the G protein-coupled receptor. Progesterone acts as an anti-mineralocorticoid by inhibiting the binding of aldosterone to the mineralocorticoid receptor. Moreover, progesterone inhibits aldosterone synthase enzymes. The effect of testosterone on aldosterone synthesis is still a subject of debate. However, certain studies show that testosterone downregulates the mRNA levels of aldosterone synthase, leading to decreased plasma aldosterone levels.
A myzozoan-specific protein is an essential membrane-anchoring component of the succinate dehydrogenase complex in
Toxoplasma
parasites
Authors: Zwahlen Soraya M. , Hayward Jenni A. , Maguire Capella S. , Qin Alex R. , van Dooren Giel G.
Published: June 2024

Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) is a protein complex that functions in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the electron transport chain of mitochondria. In most eukaryotes, SDH is highly conserved and comprises the following four subunits: SdhA and SdhB form the catalytic core of the complex, while SdhC and SdhD anchor the complex in the membrane.
Toxoplasma gondii
is an apicomplexan parasite that infects one-third of humans worldwide. The genome of
T. gondii
encodes homologues of the catalytic subunits SdhA and SdhB, although the physiological role of the SDH complex in the parasite and the identity of the membrane-anchoring subunits are poorly understood. Here, we show that the SDH complex contributes to optimal proliferation and O
2
consumption in the disease-causing tachyzoite stage of the
T. gondii
life cycle. We characterize a small membrane-bound subunit of the SDH complex called mitochondrial protein ookinete developmental defect (MPODD), which is conserved among myzozoans, a phylogenetic grouping that incorporates apicomplexan parasites and their closest free-living relatives. We demonstrate that
Tg
MPODD is essential for SDH activity and plays a key role in attaching the
Tg
SdhA and
Tg
SdhB proteins to the membrane anchor of the complex. Our findings highlight a unique and important feature of mitochondrial energy metabolism in apicomplexan parasites and their relatives.
Genetic regulators of a resource polyphenism interact to couple predatory morphology and behaviour
Authors: Nicholson Rose M. , Levis Nicholas A. , Ragsdale Erik J.
Published: June 2024

Phenotypic plasticity often requires the coordinated response of multiple traits observed individually as morphological, physiological or behavioural. The integration, and hence functionality, of this response may be influenced by whether and how these component traits share a genetic basis. In the case of polyphenism, or discrete plasticity, at least part of the environmental response is categorical, offering a simple readout for determining whether and to what degree individual components of a plastic response can be decoupled. Here, we use the nematode
Pristionchus pacificus
, which has a resource polyphenism allowing it to be a facultative predator of other nematodes, to understand the genetic integration of polyphenism. The behavioural and morphological consequences of perturbations to the polyphenism’s genetic regulatory network show that both predatory activity and ability are strongly influenced by morphology, different axes of morphological variation are associated with different aspects of predatory behaviour, and rearing environment can decouple predatory morphology from behaviour. Further, we found that interactions between some polyphenism-modifying genes synergistically affect predatory behaviour. Our results show that the component traits of an integrated polyphenic response can be decoupled and, in principle, selected upon individually, and they suggest that multiple routes to functionally comparable phenotypes are possible.
Genomic insights into indole-3-acetic acid catabolism in the marine algae-associated bacterium, Marinomonas sp. NFXS50
Authors: Bertrand Constança , Martins Rodrigo , Nunes Francisco , Brandão Pedro , Nascimento Francisco X
Published: June 2024

2. Abstract

Auxins, mainly in the form of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) regulate several aspects of plant and algae growth and development. Consequently, plant and algae-associated bacteria developed the ability to modulate IAA levels, including IAA catabolism. In this work, we present and analyze the genome sequence of the IAA-degrading and marine algae-associated bacterium, Marinomonas sp. NFXS50, analyze its IAA catabolism gene cluster and study the prevalence of IAA catabolism genes in other Marinomonas genomes. Our findings revealed the presence of homologs of the Pseudomonas iac gene cluster, implicated in IAA catabolism, in the genome of strain NFXS50, however, differences were observed in the content and organization of the Marinomonas iac gene cluster when compared to that of the iac-containing Pseudomonas putida 1290. These variations suggest potential adaptations in the IAA catabolism pathway, possibly influenced by substrate availability and evolutionary factors. The prevalence of iac genes across several Marinomonas species underscores the significance of IAA catabolism in marine environments, potentially influencing plant/algae-bacteria interactions. This study provides novel insights into the IAA catabolism in Marinomonas, laying the groundwork for future investigations into the role of iac genes in Marinomonas physiology and the regulation of marine plant/algae-bacteria interactions.
Eupransor demetentiae gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel fructophilic lactic acid bacterium from bumble bees
Authors: Botero Juliana , Peeters Charlotte , De Canck Evelien , Laureys David , Vandamme Peter
Published: June 2024

Strain LMG 33000T was isolated from a Bombus lapidarius gut sample. It shared the highest percentage 16S rRNA sequence identity, average amino acid identity, and amino acid identity of conserved genes with Convivina intestini LMG 28291T (95.86 %, 69.9 and 76.2 %, respectively), and the highest percentage OrthoANIu value with Fructobacillus fructosus DSM 20349T (71.4 %). Phylogenomic analyses by means of 107 or 120 conserved genes consistently revealed Convivina as nearest neighbour genus. The draft genome of strain LMG 33000T was 1.44 Mbp in size and had a DNA G+C content of 46.1 mol%. Genomic and physiological analyses revealed that strain LMG 33000T was a typical obligately fructophilic lactic acid bacterium that lacked the adhE and aldh genes and that did not produce ethanol during glucose or fructose metabolism. In contrast, Convivina species have the adhE and aldh genes in their genomes and produced ethanol from glucose and fructose metabolism, which is typical for heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria. Moreover, strain LMG 33000T exhibited catalase activity, an unusual characteristic among lactic acid bacteria, that is not shared with Convivina species. Given its position in the phylogenomic trees, and the difference in genomic percentage G+C content and in physiological and metabolic characteristics between strain LMG 33000T and Convivina species, we considered it most appropriate to classify strain LMG 33000T into a novel genus and species within the Lactobacillaceae family for which we propose the name Eupransor demetentiae gen. nov., sp. nov., with LMG 33000T (=CECT 30958T) as the type strain.
How low can you go? Short-read polishing of Oxford Nanopore bacterial genome assemblies
Authors: Bouras George , Judd Louise M. , Edwards Robert A. , Vreugde Sarah , Stinear Timothy P. , Wick Ryan R.
Published: June 2024

It is now possible to assemble near-perfect bacterial genomes using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) long reads, but short-read polishing is usually required for perfection. However, the effect of short-read depth on polishing performance is not well understood. Here, we introduce Pypolca (with default and careful parameters) and Polypolish v0.6.0 (with a new careful parameter). We then show that: (1) all polishers other than Pypolca-careful, Polypolish-default and Polypolish-careful commonly introduce false-positive errors at low read depth; (2) most of the benefit of short-read polishing occurs by 25× depth; (3) Polypolish-careful almost never introduces false-positive errors at any depth; and (4) Pypolca-careful is the single most effective polisher. Overall, we recommend the following polishing strategies: Polypolish-careful alone when depth is very low (<5×), Polypolish-careful and Pypolca-careful when depth is low (5–25×), and Polypolish-default and Pypolca-careful when depth is sufficient (>25×).
Profiling ranked list enrichment scoring in sparse data elucidates algorithmic tradeoffs
Authors: Wenzel Alexander T. , Jun John , Liefeld Ted , Tamayo Pablo , Mesirov Jill P.
Published: June 2024

Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) is a method for quantifying pathway and process activation in groups of samples, and its single sample version (ssGSEA) scores activation using mRNA abundance in a single sample. GSEA and ssGSEA were developed for “bulk” samples rather than individual cell technologies such as microarrays and bulk RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data. The growing use of single cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) raises the possibility of using ssGSEA to quantify pathway and process activation in individual cells. However, scRNA-seq data is much sparser than RNA-seq data. Here we show that ssGSEA as designed for bulk data is subject to some amount of score uncertainty and other technical issues when applied to individual cells from scRNA-seq data. We also show that a ssGSEA can be applied robustly to “pseudobulk” aggregate groups of a few hundred to a few thousand cells provided appropriate normalization is used. Finally, in comparing this approach to other ranked list enrichment methods, we find that the UCell method is most robust to sparsity. We have made the aggregate cell version of ssGSEA available as a Python package and GenePattern module and will also modularize UCell for use on GenePattern as well.
Marginal Fermi liquid behavior at the onset of
2kF
density wave order in two-dimensional metals with flat hot spots
Authors: Debbeler Lukas , Metzner Walter
Published: June 2024

We analyze quantum fluctuation effects at the onset of incommensurate 2kF charge- or spin-density-wave order in two-dimensional metals for a model in which the ordering wave vector Q connects a single pair of hot spots on the Fermi surface with a vanishing Fermi surface curvature. The tangential momentum dependence of the bare dispersion near the hot spots is proportional to |kt|α with α>2. We first compute the order parameter susceptibility and the fermion self-energy in a random phase approximation (RPA). Logarithmic divergences are subsequently treated by a renormalization-group analysis. The coupling between the order parameter fluctuations and the fermions vanishes logarithmically in the low-energy limit. As a consequence, the logarithmic divergences found in the RPA do not sum up to anomalous power laws. Instead, only logarithmic corrections to Fermi liquid behavior are obtained. In particular, the quasiparticle weight and the Fermi velocity vanish logarithmically at the hot spots.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Comprehensive evaluation of digital technology's effects on the supply chain of prefabricated construction
Authors: Kwok Tai Wai , Chang SiWei
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Digital technology, which is regarded as a prominent and transformational force in modern society, encompasses a wide variety of technology that utilize digital data to process, store and transfer various types of information. Digital technologies have continually been introduced as cutting-edge information tools in order to achieve effective management of vast information that arises from the prefabrication supply chain. However, without a sufficient performance evaluation, drawbacks of technology investment, such as financial losses and ineffective resource allocation, keep occurring, which hinders the widespread implementation of digital technologies. This study demonstrates a comprehensive evaluation of digital technologies’ effects on the prefabrication supply chain based on multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Specifically, the targeted digital technologies and project constraints were first identified through a systematic literature review. The effects of the digital technologies were then scored using a questionnaire survey. The TOPSIS model was established to quantitatively rank the effectiveness of selected digital technologies.

Findings

Overall, BIM technology shone out in the rankings and is regarded as the most beneficial digital solution by multi-stakeholders to the existing constraints, such as working efficiency. Collaboration patterns between different stakeholders and technology integration trend were also indicated.

Originality/value

Compared with existing outcomes, this study specifically focused on examining the effects of digital technologies on the prefabrication supply chain, the most significant link in the process for prefabricated structures. New findings indicate the overall performance that considered both multi-stakeholders’ preferences and project constraints. The quantitative evaluation presents a comprehensive understanding of digital technologies’ effects, enabling industrial participants to reach well-informed, strategic and profitable investment decisions.
Employee motivation and professional burnout as impacts of organizational culture on medical institutions
Authors: Pauliene Rasa , Kasnauskiene Gindrute , Raudone Odeta , Liubauskiene Vaida , Vrontis Demetris
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of organizational culture of medical institutions on employee motivation and professional burnout, with occupation (i.e. doctor, nurse and administration employee) being a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative method (survey) was used for this study in Lithuania (EU), with a sum of 235 fulfilled questionnaires being obtained online. IBM SPSS software was used for statistical analysis and testing hypotheses.

Findings

The research results reveal that organizational culture is significantly related to both employee motivation and professional burnout in Lithuanian medical institutions. Moreover, theoretical and executive implications highlight the requisite role of and manner in which organizational culture and employee motivation can reduce employee turnover, retain talent, limit employee burnout and overall strengthen the design and implementation of long-term human resource management planning.

Social implications

This research delineates, explicates and directs crucial aspects of medical institutions’ effective functioning, a concern of even the most developed nations, as health sector performance, individually, organizationally and collectively, is a natural principal factor of social well-being and health.

Originality/value

Further and unique to the extant research, the authors analyzed specific organizational interactions, which revealed different statistical relationships between organizational culture and doctors’, nurses’ and administration employees’ overload, lack of development and neglect. The authors, thus, identified that organizational culture does not have a statistically significant impact on neglect of doctors, nurses and administration employees; however, it does significantly influence overload and lack of development in all respondents’ groups.
Unraveling the factors that influence connectedness and relationship performance with augmented reality apps
Authors: Nadeem Waqar , Alimamy Saifeddin , Ashraf Abdul R.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Augmented reality (AR) technology presents novel opportunities for marketers to captivate consumers, enhancing their experiences with brands. Although recent research underscores consumers' favorable responses to AR within retail contexts, there remains a paucity of studies examining the specific factors motivating these responses, i.e. reasons for, such as the appeal of entertainment, trendiness, customization, interaction and augmentation quality. Conversely, reasons against AR acceptance, such as perceived lack of realism, skepticism or perceived deception, are also underexplored.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by the behavioral reasoning theory, the current study delves into consumers' personal values and beliefs, their reasons for and reasons against using AR apps and how these factors influence their engagement and relationship performance with AR apps. The data were collected from 343 AR app users to test the developed theoretical framework.

Findings

Results reveal that while perceived value compatibility does not influence reasons for using AR apps, it negatively influences reasons against using AR apps and positively influences connectedness to AR apps. Interestingly, openness to change does not significantly influence users’ connection to AR apps, and no association was found between reasons-against and connectedness to AR apps and relationship performance. However, a positive relationship was observed between users’ connectedness to AR apps and their relationship performance.

Originality/value

By offering these insights, this study contributes to a foundational understanding of the behavioral intricacies and dynamic interaction patterns within the rapidly emerging AR user base.
Testing the determinants of job satisfaction among police administrative officers in Taiwan
Authors: Lin ChiaHung , Zhao Jihong
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The current paper aims to provide insights into the determinants associated with job satisfaction among police administrative (personnel) officers in Taiwan, especially both internal organizational predictors and unique external predictors related to the Chinese cultural context.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from police administrative officers across major and medium-sized police agencies in Taiwan. Multiple regression models were employed to analyze the relationship between both internal factors to the organization (e.g. workplace fairness, supervisor support, self-efficacy) and external factors (related to traditional Chinese culture and its expectations) and job satisfaction.

Findings

The external factors of work-family life balance and financial benefits are strong predictors, emphasizing the cultural significance of family harmony and financial stability in Taiwanese society. This finding challenges the prevailing notion in the literature that the primary source of job satisfaction among police officers is derived from internal organizational factors. Collectively, the findings concluded the multi-faceted determinants of job satisfaction among administrative officers in Taiwan, intertwining both individual and internal organizational factors with broader external cultural influences.

Practical implications

This study investigated the job satisfaction among administrative officers who play a key role in a police department. The findings showed that external factors exert a significant impact on job satisfaction. This offers a new frontier to examine job satisfaction among not only administrative officers but also patrol officers in Taiwan and Asian countries. In addition, training courses can be developed and focus on work-family relations when officers are off duty.

Originality/value

While previous research has extensively explored job satisfaction among police officers in various roles and countries, by integrating internal organizational and external predictors, this study pioneers the focus on “police administrative officers” within Taiwanese police agencies.
Unveiling the synergy: entrepreneurial effectuation and alliance-driven SME diversification
Authors: Alam Md. Nur , Masroor Imtiaz , Nabi Md. Noor Un , Dornberger Utz
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Internationalisation is a complex and uncertain process for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), characterised by challenges such as limited resources, lack of international experience and uncertainty in foreign markets. This study aims to explore the impact of entrepreneurial effectuation on the diversification of products and market expansion. Additionally, it examines the mediating role of alliance capabilities in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study developed five hypotheses based on an extensive and relevant literature review. Data were collected using nonprobability judgemental and snowball sampling techniques from 202 software exporting firms in Bangladesh to measure the relationship. Data collected from the survey were then analysed using partial least squares-structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results of this study show that all five hypotheses developed in this study are supported. This study found a positive impact of entrepreneurial effectuation on product and market diversification. Study results also show that alliance capabilities mediate the relationship between entrepreneurial effectuation and product and market diversification.

Research limitations/implications

In the face of internationalisation uncertainties, SMEs use effectual decision-making logic and form strategic alliances to enhance their competitive positions. This research contributes to understanding how SMEs use effectuation in navigating international markets and expanding their product portfolios and market reach.

Originality/value

This study pioneers a mediation approach to explore the relationship between entrepreneurial effectuation, alliance capabilities and diversification in SME internationalisation. Examining the interplay of decision-making logic and collaborative ventures, this study offers insights into the complexities of SME internationalisation in uncertain environments.
Bayesian linearized amplitude variation with offset and azimuth inversion and uncertainty analysis in horizontal transversely isotropic media
Authors: Pan Xinpeng , Liu Zhishun , Wang Pu , Huang Lei , Liu Jianxin
Published: June 2024

The stratum can be modelled as a horizontal transversely isotropic medium when a single set of vertically parallel fractures embedded in an isotropic background medium, which facilitates efficient study for fractured reservoirs. Elastic parameters and fracture weaknesses are important parameters to describe the characteristics of fractured reservoirs, and seismic inversion plays a significant role in parameters estimation. The commonly used deterministic inversion methods do not fully utilize the prior information and fails to present the uncertainty analysis of inversion results. To address these shortcomings, we propose a Bayesian linearized amplitude variation with offset and azimuth inversion method tailored for horizontal transversely isotropic media, enabling a more robust analysis of uncertainty. Within the framework of Bayesian inversion, the proposed method successfully derives analytical expressions for the posterior mean and covariance of both elastic parameters and fracture weaknesses. The response characteristics of the anisotropic reflection coefficient are analysed, and it is found that the perturbations of elastic parameters have a greater effect on reflection coefficient compared to fracture weaknesses. Synthetic data examples confirm that the accuracy of estimated P‐ and S‐wave velocities and density surpasses that of fracture weaknesses, and the proposed method still performs well for the case of moderate noise. A field data example demonstrates that the inverted profiles agree well with the logging curve, and the estimated fracture weaknesses display significantly high values in the reservoir area. The estimated reservoir parameters not only contribute to a more accurate representation of the fractured gas‐bearing reservoir but also provide insights into the target gas reservoir through its posterior distribution. Both synthetic and field data examples demonstrate the stability and reliability of the proposed method in characterizing fractured reservoirs. We determine that the proposed method provides an available tool for nuanced evaluation of uncertainty for the inversion results, and it is helpful for the fine description of fractured hydrocarbon‐bearing reservoirs.
Programming Style: Suggested Guidelines for Writing Code
Authors: Hirschberg Joe , Lye Jenny
Published: June 2024

Since computer code has become elemental in current research it has become imperative that code should be written clearly and in good style. A program written in a clear, well‐written style is easier to debug and is more useful to those who may want to replicate your work, extend it, speed it up or borrow from it. Clearly, written code is also a useful tool in the training of future researchers. In this paper, we suggest a set of style guidelines and we provide examples of how particular elements of code can be done using the statistical packages Stata, SAS and R. We also present recommendations for how to write code.
HERITAGIZATION AS AN AUTHORITARIAN URBAN PRACTICE IN CHINA: Insights from Lijiang
Authors: Mascaro Giorgia
Published: June 2024

Heritage preservation practices continue to be adopted as a tool to promote the regeneration of historic areas in China. Taking the experience of the Old Town of Lijiang (Dayan) as its starting point, this essay considers heritagization both as a process of gentrification and as an authoritarian urban practice that operates behind the regeneration process, contributing to the transformation of historic neighbourhoods into objects of display. It focuses particularly on the role played by local state actors and heritage regulations, showing how the construction and rearrangement of space as a form of ‘ordering’ serves the dominant classes, thus legitimizing the transformation of Lijiang and directly shaping people's lives. Finally, following recent accounts of gentrification led by historic preservation, the essay reflects on the ways in which heritage discourses and participatory‐like practices may be deployed to legitimize gentrification and hinder various forms of resistance at the local level.
Just a head knock? Emergency physicians need to get serious about concussion
Authors: Pearce Alan J , Wirth Peter , Fitts Michelle
Published: June 2024

Attention and awareness regarding concussion injury in Australia have significantly increased in the last decade. Although most of this increase is because of discussion regarding concussions from sporting endeavours, the majority of concussions are from non‐sport environments including motor vehicle crashes, workplace incidents, falls, accidents, assault and intimate partner violence. In all cases, hospital EDs are the first point of contact, yet as argued in our Opinion here, there are concerns regarding the consistency of care protocols, because of a number of reasons, as well as management and follow‐up clinical practices. Our Opinion is to provide a constructive discussion as well as calling for ACEM to support research to provide evidence‐based data. Finally, we provide some recommendations that could be implemented immediately to improve clinical practice for presentations of concussion injuries in EDs.
Analysis and authentication of avocado oil by low‐field benchtop NMR spectroscopy and chemometrics
Authors: Tang Fenfen , Banker Thomas , Green Hillary S. , Wang Selina C. , Hatzakis Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

Avocado oil is a nutritious, edible oil produced from avocado fruit. It has high commercial value and is increasing in popularity, thus powerful analytical methods are needed to ensure its quality and authenticity. Recent advancements in low‐field (LF) NMR spectroscopy allow for collection of high‐quality data despite the use of low magnetic fields produced by non‐superconductive magnets. Combined with chemometrics, LF NMR opens new opportunities in food analysis using targeted and untargeted approaches. Here, it was used to determine poly‐, mono‐, and saturated fatty acids in avocado oil. Although direct signal integration of LF NMR spectra was able to determine certain classes of fatty acids, it had several challenges arising from signal overlapping. Thus, we used partial least square regression and developed models with good prediction performance for fatty acid composition, with residual prediction deviation ranging 3.46–5.53 and root mean squared error of prediction CV ranging 0.46–2.48. In addition, LF NMR, combined with unsupervised and supervised methods, enabled the differentiation of avocado oil from other oils, namely, olive oil, soybean oil, canola oil, high oleic (OL) safflower oil, and high OL sunflower oil. This study showed that LF NMR can be used as an efficient alternative for the compositional analysis and authentication of avocado oil.

Practical Application

Here, we describe the application of LF‐NMR for fatty acid analysis and avocado oil authentication. LF‐NMR can be an efficient tool for targeted and untargeted analysis, thus becoming an attractive option for companies, regulatory agencies, and quality control laboratories. This tool is especially important for organizations and entities seeking economic, user‐friendly, and sustainable analysis solutions.
Spatial patterns of roadkill within Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar
Authors: Ramsay Malcolm S. , Mercado Malabet Fernando , Ravelonjanahary Hajanirina N. , Razafindrakoto Andriamahery , Lehman Shawn M.
Published: June 2024

Wildlife‐vehicle collisions can be a significant cause of mortality for animals with ranges that overlap roads. Not all species are equally affected by roads and thus conservation practitioners need empirical data to determine appropriate mitigation measures. However, there is a lack of data on how tropical animals, in particular those on the island of Madagascar, are affected by roads and vehicular mortality. In order to fill in this gap in the literature we investigated the ecological and spatial factors influencing roadkill observations along Route National 4 in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar. We observed 80 cases of roadkill along the highway belonging to at least 13 species, including the first published record of a lemur as roadkill. We also found that the density of roadkill was lower in the area between two speedbumps, suggesting these are an effective measure to mitigate wildlife‐vehicle collisions. These results showcase that even within protected areas of Madagascar animals are at risk of vehicular mortality but mitigation measures are possible. Given the high rates of endemicity coupled with vulnerability to extinction of many Malagasy fauna there is an urgent need for more research on road ecology in Madagascar.
Ascertainment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status for assessment of perinatal health outcomes: Reported versus derived maternal ethnicity in Western Australian pregnancy data
Authors: Berman Ye'elah E. , Newnham John P. , Ward Sarah V. , Brown Kiarna , Doherty Dorota A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Under‐identification of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (hereafter referred to as Aboriginal) people can result in inaccurate estimation of health outcomes. Data linkage has improved identification of Aboriginal people in administrative datasets.

Aim

To compare three methods of ascertainment of Aboriginal status using only pregnancy data from the Western Australian Midwives Notification System (MNS), to the linked Indigenous Status Flag (ISF) derived by the Department of Health.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective population‐based cohort study utilised logistic regression to determine which demographic characteristics were associated with under‐identification, and the effect of ascertainment method on perinatal adverse outcomes.

Results

All methods identified a core group of 19 017 (83.0%) Aboriginal women and the ISF identified 2298 (10.0%) women who were not identified using any other method. Under‐ascertainment was lowest when a woman's Aboriginal status was determined by ever being recorded as Aboriginal in the MNS data, and highest when taken as it had been recorded for the birth in question. Maternal age <20 years, smoking during pregnancy, pre‐existing diabetes, a history of singleton preterm birth and being in the lowest 20% of Socio‐Economic Indexes for Areas score were all associated with a higher chance of being identified by the methods using only the MNS. These methods were less likely to identify nulliparous women, and those with maternal age ≥35 years. The method of ascertainment of Aboriginality did not make a significant difference to the adjusted predicted marginal probabilities of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Conclusion

Unlinked pregnancy data can be used for epidemiological research in Aboriginal obstetric populations.
Association of preoperative CT‐scan features and clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Madankan Ahmad , Jaliliyan Ali , Khalili Pantea , Eghdami Shayan , Mosavari Hesam , Ahmadi Seyyed Amir Yasin , Izadi Amirreza , Hosseininasab Ali , Eghbali Foolad
Published: June 2024

Background

Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR‐POPF) is a significant complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy. CR‐POPF is associated with various adverse outcomes, including high mortality rates. Identifying complication predictors for CR‐POPF, such as preoperative CT scan features, including pancreatic attenuation index (PAI) and pancreatic duct diameter (PDD), is critical. This systematic review and meta‐analysis consolidate existing literature to assess the impact of these variables on CR‐POPF risk.

Methods

Our comprehensive search, conducted in May 2023, covered PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed peer‐reviewed cohort studies on pancreaticoduodenectomy, focusing on preoperative CT scan data. Case reports, case series, and studies reporting distal pancreatectomy were excluded. The quality assessment of included articles was done using New‐Castle Ottawa Scale for cohort studies. Statistical analysis was carried out using Review Manager 5. This study was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews database (PROSPERO) on 12 May 2023 (registration number: CRD42023414139).

Results

We conducted a detailed analysis of 38 studies with 7393 participants. The overall incidence of CR‐POPF was 24%. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that PDD and pancreatic parenchymal thickness were significantly associated with CR‐POPF.

Conclusion

Our systematic review and meta‐analysis shed light on CT scan findings for predicting CR‐POPF after Whipple surgery. Age, PDD, and pancreatic parenchymal thickness significantly correlate with CR‐POPF.
Causaita Puruntuna (“Let's Plan Life Together”): Planes de Vida / Life Plans and the Political Horizon of Indigenous Planning in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Grefa Fredy , Alvarado Rosa , Alvarado Tamy , Valdivia Gabriela
Published: June 2024

Planes de Vida (Life Plans) are an initiative in Latin America connecting Indigenous self‐governance with a state vision of a good life for citizens. While Life Plans have been proposed since the mid‐1980s, these are often crafted with the vision and language of states in place of Indigenous ones. Informed by Indigenous Standpoint Theory and Napo Runa living ecologies, we use autoethnography, participant observation, and secondary text analysis to re‐orient the relationship between state and Indigenous planning, and to ask what Amazonian futures would be possible if they started from Indigenous (rather than state) planning. To explore this re‐orientation, we examine the case of the Kichwa organisation FOIN, in the Ecuadorian Amazon. We argue that Life Plans can be indigenised with Kichwa planning philosophies and model ways to centre Indigenous methodologies that can shape the transformational potential of such planning initiatives.
Removing the physician from the equation: Patient‐controlled, home‐based therapeutic drug self‐monitoring of tacrolimus
Authors: Hazenbroek Marinus , Pengel Liset H. M. , Sassen Sebastiaan D. T. , Massey Emma K. , Reinders Marlies E. J. , de Winter Brenda C. M. , Hesselink Dennis A.
Published: June 2024

The dosing of tacrolimus, which forms the backbone of immunosuppressive therapy after kidney transplantation, is complex. This is due to its variable pharmacokinetics (both between and within individual patients), narrow therapeutic index, and the severe consequences of over‐ and underexposure, which may cause toxicity and rejection, respectively. Tacrolimus is, therefore, routinely dosed by means of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). TDM is performed for as long as the transplant functions and frequent and often lifelong sampling is therefore the rule. This puts a significant burden on patients and transplant professionals and is associated with high healthcare‐associated costs. Furthermore, by its very nature, TDM is reactive and has no predictive power. Finally, the current practice of TDM does not foresee in an active role for patients themselves. Rather, the physician or pharmacist prescribes the next tacrolimus dose after obtaining the concentration measurement test results. In this article, we propose a strategy of patient‐controlled, home‐based, self‐TDM of the immunosuppressant tacrolimus after transplantation. We argue that with the combined use of population tacrolimus pharmacokinetic models, home‐based sampling by means of dried blood spotting and implementation of telemedicine, this may become a feasible approach in the near future.
Sonography in the diagnosis of peri‐implant bone defects: An in vitro study on native human mandibles
Authors: Bykhovsky Igor , Hildner Alexander , Kripfgans Oliver D. , Mengel Reiner
Published: June 2024

Aim

The aim of this study on native human cadavers was to compare clinical, sonographic, and radiological measurements of fenestrations, dehiscences, and 3‐wall bone defects on implants.

Materials and Methods

The examination was carried out on five human mandibles. After the insertion of 27 implants, dehiscences (n = 14), fenestrations (n = 7) and 3‐wall bone defects (n = 6) were prepared in a standardized manner. The direct measurement of the bone defects was carried out with a periodontal probe and the radiological examination was carried out using digital volume tomography (DVT). The ultrasound examination (US) was performed using a clinical 24‐MHz US imaging probe. Means and standard deviations of the direct, US, and DVT measurements were calculated. Measurements were statistically compared using the Pearson correlation coefficient and Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

Bone defects were on average 3.22 ± 1.58 mm per direct measurement, 2.90 ± 1.47 mm using US, and 2.99 ± 1.52 mm per DVT assessment. Pairwise correlations of these measurements were R = .94 (p < .0001) between direct and US, R = .95 (p < .0001) between DVT and US, and R = .96 (p < .0001) between direct and DVT. The mean differences of the measurements (and 95% CI) between direct and US was 0.41 (−0.47 to 1.29), US and DVT 0.33 (−0.30 to 0.97), and direct and DVT 0.28 (−0.50 to 1.07).

Conclusion

All peri‐implant bone defects could be identified and sonographically measured. US measurements showed a strong correlation with direct and DVT measurements. The sonographic measurement accuracy was highest for dehiscences, followed by fenestrations and 3‐wall bone defects.