bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A model explaining environmental stiffness-dependent migration of fibroblasts with a focus on maturation of intracellular structures
Authors: Saito Natsuki , Matsui Tsubasa S , Matsunaga Daiki , Furukawa Kana , Deguchi Shinji
Published: December 2022

Cell migration is fundamental to many biological processes, while it remains elusive how cells modulate their migration upon different environmental stiffness. In this work, we focus on the structural maturity of actin stress fibers to explain the substrate stiffness-dependent emergence of different cell migration velocity. We demonstrate that fibroblasts migrate longer distances on softer elastic substrates, and the distance is increased by lowering the myosin-driven contractile force. Stress fibers, the major intracellular structure to generate and sustain contractile forces, were found to be less mature in structure on soft substrate than on stiff substrate. Based on these experimental results, we present a minimal mathematical model to capture the salient features of how the substrate stiffness alters the migration velocity. Specifically, the ability of cells to generate large contractile forces is limited on soft substrate according to the Hooke’s law. The inverse relationship between the cellular force and migration velocity is described by the Hill’s muscle equation. These mathematical descriptions suggest that the migration velocity is raised on softer substrate where cells exert a lower magnitude of contractile forces. Cells undergoing faster movement make stress fibers less mature in structure as mathematically described by the maturation model, thereby limiting the ability to sustain the force and in turn allowing for consistent increase in cell migration velocity on soft substrate again according to the Hooke’s law and Hill’s muscle equation, respectively. Thus, our model, reproducing the basic trend of the experimental results, provides insights into the mechanisms of environmental cue-dependent migratory behavior of cells.
Systematic review of the evidence to support expert practice in the education and care of children and young people with special educational needs and disability in the UK
Authors: Clarry Laura , Wood Annie , Long Tony
Published: December 2022

Scopus, EBSCO, ERIC and British Education Index were interrogated in a systematic review of primary research since 2014 addressing expert practice and outcomes in education and care for young people with special educational needs and disability in the UK. Grey literature and studies of medical settings, preschool children, mainstream education or professional education were excluded. Quality was gauged by effect sizes, risk of bias and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. The search identified 7058 items. Twenty‐eight studies were included, with 1839 participants of 4–22 years. Risk of bias was low, with effect sizes from small to extremely large. The qualitative studies were rigorous. Expert practice with positive outcomes was evidenced in comprehensive assessment, enhancing engagement and personalised interventions. Correction of visual problems, use of humanoid robots, and tested models were generally effective. There was rigorous evidence for efficacy of frameworks and reasonable evidence for creative approaches to physical activity. Drama lessons were valued. Standing frame use improved peer interaction or caused segregation. Disparity between problem identification and planned support in education health and care plans, and addressing personal and physical health factors were problematic. The voice of young people was lacking. More training was required in augmented and alternative communication.
Assessment of cropland inundation due to the operation of the Reelfoot Lake spillway in West Tennessee
Authors: Bhuyian Md Nowfel M. , Lahiri Chayan , Diehl Timothy H. , Heal Elizabeth N.
Published: December 2022

Running Reelfoot Bayou (RRB) is the outlet canal of Reelfoot Lake, the largest natural lake in Tennessee. RRB is not able to contain discharge from Reelfoot Lake greater than the bankfull discharge of 28 m3/s (1000 ft3/s), which typically occurs at the beginning of the growing season (April–June). Historically, the planting of crops has been delayed until flooding subsides and cropland has drained. The objective of this study is a preliminary quantification of cropland inundation to determine its spatial distribution in the RRB floodplain. Inundated croplands in the RRB floodplain were delineated over a range of spillway discharges from 2 to 57 m3/s (70–2000 ft3/s), using one‐dimensional–two‐dimensional hydrodynamic modeling and multispectral satellite images (Landsat 8 and Sentinel‐2). The composite maps made by combining the simulated and image‐derived flood maps were overlaid on the United States Department of Agriculture CropScape layer to determine the inundation of individual summer crops during the growing season. About 25% of the inundated croplands are flooded at discharges of RRB less than 28 m3/s, implying wetland hydrology. The results of this analysis can be used to inform operational management of the Reelfoot Lake spillway.
Determinants of sexual function in men living with HIV younger than 50 years old: Focus on organic, relational, and psychological issues
Authors: De Vincentis Sara , Decaroli Maria Chiara , Milic Jovana , Fanelli Flaminia , Tartaro Giulia , Diazzi Chiara , Mezzullo Marco , De Santis Maria Cristina , Roli Laura , Trenti Tommaso , Santi Daniele , Pagotto Uberto , Guaraldi Giovanni , Rochira Vincenzo
Published: December 2022

Background

Sexual dysfunctions, particularly erectile dysfunction, are common in men living with HIV, whose organic and psychological components remain to be clarified. The aim of the study is to investigate the impact of risk factors of sexual dysfunctions, including organic, relational, and psychological determinants of erectile function, in men living with HIV younger than 50 years old.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, observational study was conducted in men living with HIV < 50 years. The questionnaire International Index of Erectile Function‐15 was used to assess the prevalence and degree of erectile dysfunction. The structured interview of erectile dysfunction was used to explore the organic (Scale 1), relational (Scale 2), and psychological (Scale 3) components of erectile dysfunction. Total testosterone, estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone were measured by liquid chromatography‐tandem‐mass spectrometry; free testosterone was calculated by the Vermeulen equation.

Results

A total of 313 consecutive men living with HIV were prospectively enrolled (median age 47.0 years; median HIV‐infection duration 16.2 years). 187 patients (59.7%) had erectile dysfunction, with a higher prevalence of non‐heterosexual (138 out of 187, 73.8%) than heterosexual patients (p = 0.003). Patients with erectile dysfunction showed a worse score of structured interview of erectile dysfunction scale 3 compared to patients without erectile dysfunction (p = 0.025); the International Index of Erectile Function‐15 was inversely related to structured interview of erectile dysfunction scale 3 (p = 0.042). No difference was found for sex steroids (total testosterone, estradiol, free testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone) between men living with HIV with and without erectile dysfunction. In the multivariate analysis sexual orientation, and lack of stable relationships were major determinants for erectile dysfunction. Only 35 of 187 patients with erectile dysfunction (18.7%) reported the use of erectile dysfunction medications.

Conclusions

Within the multidimensional network of erectile dysfunction in men living with HIV, the psychological component is predominant, highlighting the contribution of peculiar factors related to HIV distress (e.g., fear of virus transmission, stigma) rather than gonadal status and other classical risk factors. In contrast to the high prevalence, only a few patients reported the use of erectile dysfunction medications suggesting a general under‐management of such issues.
Morphine use induces gastric microbial dysbiosis driving gastric inflammation through TLR2 signalling which is attenuated by proton pump inhibition
Authors: Ghosh Nillu , Kesh Kousik , Singh Praveen Kumar , Sharma Umakant , Chupikova Irina , Ramakrishnan Sundaram , Roy Sabita
Published: December 2022

Background and Purpose

Opioids are the standard drug for pain management; however, their effects on gastric dysfunction are relatively understudied. Opioid users have a higher incidence of gastric pathology leading to increased hospitalization. Herein, we investigated the consequences of morphine use on gastric pathology and the underlying mechanisms. We further investigated the therapeutic benefit of proton pump inhibition to overcome morphine‐mediated gastric inflammation.

Experimental Approach

Mice were implanted with 25 mg slow‐release morphine and placebo pellets. Gastric microbiome analyses were performed. Gastric damage was assayed. Gastric pH was measured. Germ‐free and TLR2KO mice were used to investigate the mechanisms. Gastroprotective studies were performed with the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) omeprazole.

Key Results

Chronic morphine treatment alters gastric microbial composition and induces preferential expansion of pathogenic bacterial communities such as Streptococcus and Pseudomonas. Morphine causes disruption of the gastric mucosal layer, increases apoptosis, and elevates inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, morphine‐mediated gastric pathology was significantly attenuated in germ‐free mice, and reconstitution of morphine gastric microbiome in germ‐free mice resulted gastric inflammation. In addition, morphine‐mediated gastric inflammation was attenuated in TLR2KO mice. Morphine causes a decrease in gastric pH, which contributes to gastric dysbiosis leads to gastric inflammation. Omeprazole treatment inhibits gastric acidity, rescuing morphine‐induced gastric dysbiosis and preventing inflammation.

Conclusion and Implications

This study attributes morphine‐induced gastric acidity as a driver of gastric dysbiosis and pathology and proposes the therapeutic use of PPI as an inexpensive approach for the clinical management of morphine‐associated pathophysiology.
Learning from adversity: What the COVID‐19 pandemic can teach us about family resiliency
Authors: Brock Rebecca L. , Calkins Frances C. , Hamburger Emily R. , Kumar Shaina A. , Laifer Lauren M. , Phillips Eric , Ramsdell Erin L.
Published: December 2022

The present study aimed to characterize the immediate impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic on families with preschool age children and to identify pre‐pandemic factors that explained unique family experiences. We leveraged an ongoing longitudinal study of relatively well‐resourced community families who had reported on family functioning prior to the pandemic and completed surveys 6 months after pandemic onset. Both parents of dual parenting households endorsed significant hardships as a direct result of the pandemic (e.g., disrupted family routines, challenges at work); however, families also reported aspects of flourishing (i.e., experiencing positive outcomes in response to adversity) such as spending more time together as a family. Families were prone to greater hardships and fewer opportunities for growth to the extent that parents were lower in psychological resources (i.e., greater stress and internalizing symptoms, poor well‐being) and were not on the same page as a couple (i.e., interparental discord, low quality coparenting) prior to pandemic onset. Finally, greater pandemic hardships predicted poorer parental mental health, greater family dysfunction, and elevated child psychopathology, controlling for pre‐pandemic levels. Parents who reported more family flourishing from the pandemic had a stronger interparental relationship. Results are intended to inform theories of family stress and family interventions that can be tailored to promote resiliency (i.e., adaptation to challenging life events) and prevent dysfunction when families face rapid change and adjustment and high degrees of uncertainty and stress.
Isotopic evidence for increased carbon and nitrogen exchanges between peatland plants and their symbiotic microbes with rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations since 15,000 cal. year BP
Authors: Yang Qiannan , Liu Ziping , Houlton Benjamin Z. , Gao Decai , Chang Qing , Li Hongkai , Fan Xianlei , Liu Bai , Bai Edith
Published: December 2022

Whether nitrogen (N) availability will limit plant growth and removal of atmospheric CO2 by the terrestrial biosphere this century is controversial. Studies have suggested that N could progressively limit plant growth, as trees and soils accumulate N in slowly cycling biomass pools in response to increases in carbon sequestration. However, a question remains over whether longer‐term (decadal to century) feedbacks between climate, CO2 and plant N uptake could emerge to reduce ecosystem‐level N limitations. The symbioses between plants and microbes can help plants to acquire N from the soil or from the atmosphere via biological N2 fixation—the pathway through which N can be rapidly brought into ecosystems and thereby partially or completely alleviate N limitation on plant productivity. Here we present measurements of plant N isotope composition (δ15N) in a peat core that dates to 15,000 cal. year BP to ascertain ecosystem‐level N cycling responses to rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations. We find that pre‐industrial increases in global atmospheric CO2 concentrations corresponded with a decrease in the δ15N of both Sphagnum moss and Ericaceae when constrained for climatic factors. A modern experiment demonstrates that the δ15N of Sphagnum decreases with increasing N2‐fixation rates. These findings suggest that plant‐microbe symbioses that facilitate N acquisition are, over the long term, enhanced under rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations, highlighting an ecosystem‐level feedback mechanism whereby N constraints on terrestrial carbon storage can be overcome.
Spatio‐temporal patterns in the woodiness of flowering plants
Authors: Luo Ao , Xu Xiaoting , Liu Yunpeng , Li Yaoqi , Su Xiangyan , Li Yichao , Lyu Tong , Dimitrov Dimitar , Larjavaara Markku , Peng Shijia , Chen Yongsheng , Wang Qinggang , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Pellissier Loïc , Schmid Bernhard , Wang Zhiheng
Published: December 2022

Aim

Woody and herbaceous habits represent one of the most distinct contrasts among angiosperms, and the proportion of woody species in floras (i.e., “woodiness” hereafter) represents a fundamental structural element of plant diversity. Despite its core influence on ecosystem processes, spatio‐temporal patterns in woodiness remain poorly understood. Here, we aim to demonstrate the global spatio‐temporal patterns in angiosperm woodiness and their relationship with environmental factors.

Location

Global.

Time period

Cenozoic, 66 Ma to present.

Major taxa studied

Angiosperms.

Methods

Using newly compiled data on the growth forms and distributions of c. 300,000 angiosperm species and an angiosperm phylogeny, we mapped the current global geographical patterns in angiosperm woodiness, reconstructed ancestral states of growth forms through the angiosperm phylogeny and demonstrated the Cenozoic evolutionary dynamics of woodiness. We evaluated the relationships between woodiness and current climate and palaeoclimate.

Results

We found that c. 42.7% of angiosperms are woody. Woodiness decreased spatially from the equator towards high latitudes, temporally since the early Cenozoic. Temperature was the best predictor of the spatio‐temporal decline in woodiness and was positively correlated with woodiness. Despite the temporal decline in woodiness, macroevolutionary herbaceous‐to‐woody transitions increased through time and contributed to the evolution of woody floras in temperate drylands, whereas the opposite transitions decreased through time and contributed to herbaceous floras in tropical and subtropical drylands.

Main conclusions

Our study improves understanding of the spatio‐temporal dynamics of angiosperm woodiness. Our findings suggest that temperature is likely to be a determinant of spatio‐temporal variations in woodiness, highlighting the role of temperature in maintaining the growth form composition of ecosystems. Our study also calls for attention to growth form transitions (e.g., secondary woodiness) in temperate drylands that have been neglected before.
Dental Stem Cells SV40, a new cell line developed in vitro from human stem cells of the apical papilla
Authors: Sanz‐Serrano Diana , Sánchez‐de‐Diego Cristina , Mercade Montse , Ventura Francesc
Published: December 2022

Aim

To establish and fully characterize a new cell line from human stem cells of the apical papilla (SCAPs) through immortalization with an SV40 large T antigen.

Methodology

Human SCAPs were isolated and transfected with an SV40 large T antigen and treated with puromycin to select the infected population. Expression of human mesenchymal surface markers CD73, CD90 and CD105 was assessed in the new cell line named Dental Stem Cells SV40 (DSCS) by flow cytometry at early and late passages. Cell contact inhibition and proliferation were also analysed. To evaluate trilineage differentiation, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and histological staining were performed.

Results

DSCS cell flow cytometry confirmed the expression of mesenchymal surface markers even in late passages [100% positive for CD73 and CD90 and 98.9% for CD105 at passage (P) 25]. Fewer than 0.5% were positive for haematopoietic cell markers (CD45 and CD34). DSCS cells also showed increased proliferation when compared to the primary culture after 48 h, with a doubling time of 23.46 h for DSCS cells and 40.31 h for SCAPs, and retained the capacity to grow for >45 passages (150 population doubling) and their spindle‐shaped morphology. Trilineage differentiation potential was confirmed through histochemical staining and gene expression of the chondrogenic markers SOX9 and COL2A1, adipogenic markers CEBPA and LPL, and osteogenic markers COL1A1 and ALPL.

Conclusions

The new cell line derived from human SCAPs has multipotency, retains its morphology and expression of mesenchymal surface markers and shows higher proliferative capacity even at late passages (P45). DSCS cells can be used for in vitro study of root development and to achieve a better understanding of the regenerative mechanisms.
Preparation and characterization of 2Na3SbS4·Na2WS4 and 2Na3SbS4·Na4XS4 (X = Si, Ge, Sn) glass–ceramic electrolytes
Authors: Liang Bo , Wang Guoda , Shan Haiyang , Dong Pingping , Yu Liangliang , Lin Changgui , Gao Chengwei , Liu Yongxing , Shen Xiang , Jiao Qing
Published: December 2022

Solid Na‐ion‐conducting sulfides exhibited potential applications for commercial solid‐state rechargeable batteries because of their low cost and good contact with the electrode. In the present work, a sulfide sodium‐ion conductor 2Na3SbS4·Na2WS4 with a conductivity of 1.55 mS cm−1 was obtained, which was identified as superior to the 2Na3SbS4·Na4XS4 (X = Si, Ge, Sn) systems. Further exploration of the heat treatment to improve the crystallinity of the glass resulted in a high conductivity of 1.9 mS cm−1 and low activation energy of 0.24 eV for the 2Na3SbS4·Na2WS4 glass–ceramic electrolyte. The high crystallinity after heat treatment at 380°C facilitated the migration of Na+ together with large sodium vacancies formed by doping with W6+ in 2Na3SbS4·Na2WS4 glass–ceramic electrolyte, resulting in the improved electrochemical performance. In addition, the air stability of the 2Na3SbS4·Na2WS4 glass–ceramic electrolyte decreased monotonically with increase of the annealing temperature, and heat application at 380°C effectively improved the electrolyte tolerance to the air compared with pure Na3PS4 electrolyte. The origins of aliovalent ion doping and thermal effect on the electrochemical performance were discussed in detail.
When I say … engagement
Authors: Jauregui Joshua , Schrepel Caitlin , McClintock Adelaide
Published: December 2022

The authors invite you into a local coffee shop, illustrating the meaning of engagement by drawing parallels between baristas and students.
The beliefs and attitudes of intensive care unit nurses and patient families regarding an open visitation policy in China
Authors: Li Jingjing , Cai Shining , Mei Jinghua , Liu Xiao , Wang Xiaorong , Pan Wenyan , Zhang Yuxia
Published: December 2022

Aims

To investigate the beliefs and attitudes of intensive care unit (ICU) nurses and patients' family members towards an open visitation policy in the ICU in China and to explore the reasons that promote or hinder open visitation to improve visitation policy.

Background

Open visitation policies are widely recommended in many countries. However, there are gaps between evidence and practice. Most ICUs in China still use a restrictive policy for family visits, which raises controversy. There are limited visiting times, and family visitors are not allowed to enter the ICU.

Study Design

A multicentre survey was conducted in seven hospitals in China. The Beliefs and Attitudes towards Visitation in the Intensive Care Unit Questionnaire (BAVIQ) was administered to ICU nurses and patient families from 11 the ICUs of seven hospitals. A total of 275 questionnaires were completed and returned by ICU nurses and 139 by patients' family members.

Results

Among nurses, the belief scale score was 2.87 ± 0.33 (range 2–4), and the attitude scale score was 5.53 ± 1.12 (range 2.33–7). The belief scale was divided into three subscales: nurses, patients, and patients' families. The subscale score for patients' families was the highest, and the nurses' subscale score was the lowest. Most (84.0%) of the nurses were satisfied with the current ICU visitation policy. The belief and attitude scores were 3.13 ± 0.39 (range 1.96–4) and 6.18 ± 1.20 (range 1.67–7), respectively, for family members. The scores of the three subscales, that is, patients, patients' families and nurses, were 3.13 ± 0.40, 3.26 ± 0.43, and 3.04 ± 0.49, respectively.

Conclusion

Nurses' beliefs and attitudes towards implementing an open visitation policy in China are at a less positive level than those of patient family members.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The beliefs and attitudes of nurses towards open visitation policy in China need to be improved. The question of how to mobilize nurses' enthusiasm for an open visitation policy poses a challenge for ICU management.
Do social media undermine social cohesion? A critical review
Authors: González‐Bailón Sandra , Lelkes Yphtach
Published: December 2022

We evaluate the empirical evidence interrogating the question of whether social media erodes social cohesion. We look at how networks, information exchange, and norms operate on these platforms. We also evaluate the conditions under which social media can be conducive to forming social capital and encouraging prosocial behavior. We discuss the psychological mechanisms that operate at the individual level and assess whether social media can create the environment and incentives to sustain cooperation and constructive exchange. Our discussion of the literature centers on how attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs are formed during the type of online interactions encouraged by platforms, their design, and affordances. We consider the policy implications of existing research, focusing on how empirical studies may inform regulatory efforts and platform interventions.
Recognition of the HLA‐C*03:04:20 allele, a variant of HLA‐C*03:04:01:01, in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: December 2022

One nucleotide substitution in codon 227 of HLA‐C*03:04:01:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐C*03:04:20.
Knot reversal and rational concordance
Authors: Kim Taehee
Published: December 2022

We give an infinite family of knots that are not rationally concordant to their reverses. More precisely, if denotes the involution of the rational knot concordance group induced by reversal and denotes the subgroup of knots fixed under in , then contains an infinite rank subgroup. As a corollary, we show that there exists a knot such that for every pair of coprime integers and , the ‐cable of is not concordant to the reverse of the ‐cable of .
Impact of a Self-Determination Theory–Informed Training on Youth Wellness Program Staff
Authors: Ison Shelby E. , Graber Kim C. , Richards Kevin Andrew
Published: December 2022

Background: Staff play a critical role in promoting positive youth development in out-of-school-time programs, yet little is known about best-practices for preparing staff to work with youth and meet their needs. The present study seeks to understand the impact of a basic psychological needs training on the staff’s ability to deliver needs-supportive instruction to youth during a summer wellness program. Methods: A quasi-experimental, qualitative design using interviews, observations, and journals was employed to compare the intervention staff (n = 9; M = 21.5) with a comparison group who did not receive the training (n = 8; M = 21.10). Results: Results indicated that the intervention enhanced the staff’s understandings of basic psychological needs and empowered them to be more responsive to youth misbehavior, while educating youth about the importance of appropriate behavior. Conclusions: In order to prepare staff to meet the psychological needs of youth and protect themselves against exhaustion and burnout, future research should examine adequate dosage and content of staff training.
COMPUTATIONAL SIMULATION OF THE INTERACTION AMONG AUTOREGULATION MECHANISMS REGULATING CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW RATE IN SYSTOLIC HEART FAILURE
Authors: BOZKURT SURHAN , AYTEN UMUT ENGIN
Published: December 2022

In this study, a lumped parameter model which includes systemic circulation, cerebral blood vessels, systemic arteriolar resistance control, heart rate control, cerebral autoregulation mechanisms and cerebral CO2 reactivity was developed to simulate healthy and heart failure conditions. In the healthy cardiovascular system model, the results were obtained with all control mechanisms connected to the model. Whilst heart failure cases were simulated, all control mechanisms were removed from the model. Then, cerebral autoregulation and cerebral CO2 reactivity mechanisms were connected to the model. Lastly, systemic arteriolar resistance and heart rate control mechanisms were connected to the model. Also, Monte Carlo Analysis was performed to determine the range of parameters controlled for simulations of healthy and heart failure conditions. The results showed that blood flow rate in cerebral circulation can be simulated more accurately by modeling interaction among autoregulatory mechanisms rather than studying separately.
Multi-Scale Segmentation Method of Remote Sensing Big Data Image Using Deep Learning
Authors: Li Huiping
Published: December 2022

Remote sensing image (RSI) segmentation is an effective method to interpret remote sensing information and an important means of remote sensing data information processing. Traditional RSI segmentation methods have some problems such as poor segmentation accuracy and low similarity difference measurement. Therefore, we propose a multi-scale segmentation (MSS) method for remote sensing big data image. First, the segmentation scale of RSI is divided, and the quantitative value of histogram band is used to calculate the similarity index between different objects; Second, the parameters in the same spot are improved based on the maximum area method to determine the shape factor of RSI; Finally, the object closure model is established to clarify the region conversion cost, and the RSI is dynamically segmented based on Multi-scale convolutional neural networks; The MSS algorithm of RSI is designed, and the MSS method of RSI is obtained. The results show that the maximum similarity difference measure of the proposed method is 0.648, and the similarity difference measure always remains the largest. The maximum recall of RSI is 0.954, and the highest recall is 0.988, indicating that the RSI segmentation accuracy of the proposed method is good.
FIRM SIZE, FIRM AGE AND BUSINESS MODEL INNOVATION IN RESPONSE TO A CRISIS: EVIDENCE FROM 12 COUNTRIES
Authors: ASSEFA DAWIT Z. , COLOVIC ANA , MISGANAW BISRAT A.
Published: December 2022

Exogenous shocks and environmental changes may force small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to change and innovate their business models. However, their readiness and ability to do so could depend on firm-level characteristics. This paper investigates how two firm-level factors—size and age—impact SMEs’ engagement in business model innovation in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Using World Bank Enterprise Survey data covering 2,115 SMEs from 12 countries, this study shows that the age of an SME is negatively associated with business model innovation. The finding also shows that, contrary to the hypothesis posed in this study, the size of an SME impacts business model innovation positively. The study contributes to the understanding of antecedents of business model innovation in times of environmental change and uncertainty.
IPEF and the Reconfiguration of the East Asian Economic Order
Authors: MOON Don
Published: December 2022

A successful launch of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) negotiations has posed new opportunities as well as challenges to all the actors in the East Asian region. The United States—the designer and initiator of the ambitious scheme—has displayed its intention to counter China’s expanding influence using this institutional initiative. This article examines the distinctive features of the IPEF and discusses its strategic implications as the economic instrument of the United States’ Indo-Pacific Strategy. It also explores the impact of the IPEF on the institutional reconfiguration in the region, which is swiftly underway amid the intensifying US–China confrontation.
Stability in the Taiwan Strait after the 20th Party Congress of the Chinese Communist Party
Authors: ARASE David
Published: December 2022

Unification with Taiwan is the most prominent among the Chinese Dream goals after the 20th Party Congress amended the Charter of the Chinese Communist Party to make this specific task a collective priority. This article discusses how existing disagreements regarding the historical, legal and political status of Taiwan today make the peaceful management of differences a fraught question. Recent geopolitical and geostrategic developments have also presented difficult dilemmas and choices for the People’s Republic of China on the Taiwan issue.
Psychological Impact on the Orthodontic Postgraduate Residents and Their Anxiety Level during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sultan Hareem , Shaikh Sameeruddin , Shaheen Sadaf , Pervez Hana , Adnan Ali Syed , Baseer Saman
Published: December 2022

Background. COVID-19, a viral infection, has negatively impacted the physical and psychological health of the people worldwide. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study, which aimed to investigate orthodontic postgraduate residents’ knowledge regarding COVID-19, its association with anxiety around quality of their training, and performance of routine orthodontic procedures during the pandemic. A questionnaire was circulated online through WhatsApp to the orthodontic residents enrolled in the four-year postgraduate training program across the country which comprised the following sections: demographic data, questions to test knowledge of COVID-19, self-grading of anxiety around performing routine orthodontic procedures, academic aspects of the training program, and residents’ thoughts on the current status of their training program in general during the pandemic. The residents were grouped based on their awareness on COVID-19, with >70% score taken as having adequate knowledge and ≤70% as inadequately updated. The association between COVID-19-related knowledge and the anxiety level of the residents experienced during training was assessed. Results were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 23.0. Counts and percentages were reported on baseline characteristics of studied samples. Descriptive methods were used to report the outcomes of this survey on knowledge of COVID-19, anxiety around performing orthodontic procedures, and different academic aspects of training. Statistical significance was set at

p
<
0.05

using the Pearson chi square test. Results. Most of the residents (51.5%) were adequately updated about the COVID-19 virus. Increased awareness was associated with more anxiety about the following: contracting the virus (

p
<
0.01

), performing different orthodontic procedures (

p
<
0.05

), disturbed patients’ appointments (

p
<
0.01

), timely completion of their cases (

p
<
0.01

), and exam’s preparation (

p
=
0.04

). The group with <70% COVID-19 related knowledge opted for extension of their training period (51.8%). Conclusion. COVID-19 related knowledge was clearly associated with anxiety experienced by the orthodontic residents during training in the pandemic. Awareness regarding the infection led to more anxiety around working during the pandemic, preparing for postgraduate exams, and concerns about its negative influence on the overall quality of the training program.
Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect with Carag Bioresorbable Septal Occluder™: First-in-Child Experience with 12-MonthFollow-Up
Authors: Callegari Alessia , Quandt Daniel , Nordmeyer Johannes , Schubert Stephan , Kramer Peter , Knirsch Walter , Kretschmar Oliver
Published: December 2022

Background. Nowadays, transcatheter device closure of an atrial septal defect (ASD) is a standard approach in children. Potential early and long-term side effects or complications related to the metal framework of the devices are a known issue. A bioresorbable device such as the Carag Bioresorbable Septal Occluder™ (CBSO) could resolve such complications. Material and Results. The Carag Bioresorbable Septal Occluder™ (CBSO; Carag AG, Baar, Switzerland) is a self-centering double disk, repositionable, and retractable device with a bioresorbable framework (polylactic-co-glycolic acid), which is almost completely resorbed by 18–24 months postimplantation. This manuscript reports the four first-in-child ASD device closures using a CBSO. The patients’ age was median (IQ1-IQ3), 4.5 years (4–7.25). Weight was 21.3 kg (17.6–32.7). We demonstrated procedural feasibility and safety. Effective defect closure with the device was 100%. Echocardiographic measurements of the thickness of the interatrial septum did not show any relevant increase over a 12-monthfollow-up period. There were no residual defects found after the procedure or later during the resorption process. The patients showed no evidence of any local or systemic inflammatory reaction. Conclusions. The CBSO device system could offer a new treatment option for transcatheter ASD device closure in the pediatric and adult fields. In our first-in-child experience, it was effectively and safely implanted. During the first 12 months of follow-up, no complications occurred.
A Computational Method for Acoustic Interaction with Large Complicated Underwater Structures Based on the Physical Mechanism of Structural Acoustics
Authors: Tang Yongzhuang , Zhou Qidou , Wang Xiaowei , Xie Zhiyong
Published: December 2022

A numerical coupling approach is proposed to fast predict the acoustic radiation from a vibrating large-complicated underwater structure. In this study, the physical mechanism of sound radiation from underwater large target is used for the first time to improve the efficiency and keep the accuracy of the numerical algorithm. Although the traditional coupled finite element method/boundary element method (FEM-BEM) is accurate, it contains a large number of boundary elements and thus requires a long computation time for large-complicated structures. The research on the physical mechanism of structural acoustics shows that when BEM is applied on the near-field artificial boundary at a proper distance away from the wet structural surface, large-size boundary elements are acceptable and the number of boundary elements and computation time are remarkably reduced. Thus, the fluid outside the structure is divided into the interior domain and the exterior domain by the artificial boundary. Then, the numerical method is realized by coupling structural finite element modelling with interior fluid finite element modelling and with exterior fluid boundary element modelling. Compared with the theoretical value, the experimental value and the results of the traditional FEM-BEM, the correctness of the proposed algorithm and its advantage of computational efficiency are verified. The computation time of the proposed method is over 99% shorter than that of FEM-BEM in the calculation example of a large-complicated structure. The proposed method can be further applied to multidomain acoustic and multibody acoustic calculations.
Microwave-Based Electrochemical Sensor Design by SRR Approach for ISM Sensing Applications
Authors: Özkaner Vedat , Paul Liton Chandra , Karaaslan Muharrem , Akdoğan Volkan
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a transmission line and a split ring resonator (SRR) based sensor structure with a high sensitivity capacity to discriminate various methanol mixtures. The height of the dielectric layer and thickness of copper are assigned as 1.6 mm and 0.035 mm, respectively. The overall dimensions of the sensor structure are defined as

16
 
mm
×
16
 
mm
×
1.6
 
mm

. The operating frequency is selected for the ISM bands, especially around 2.45 GHz. Different methanol-water mixtures are prepared at various ratios, and then, the complex permittivity values are measured. Different sensor structures are modelled and investigated using a two-port transmission line approach. Various types of SRR based sensors are designed, and an optimum design is proposed for methanol mixture detection applications. The observed quality factor of the proposed sensor is 16.5. The resonance shifts of the transmission value (

S

21

) are used for sensing capability around 2.45 GHz at -45 dB and 90 MHz resonance shifts. The sensitivity of the sensor has been evaluated as 1 MHz. Finally, the electric field distributions of the proposed SRR integrated transmission line are investigated. The novelty of the proposed design is to exactly sense the ratio of methanol in water with a very simple design. The proposed sensor structure can be used for methanol detection applications in medical, military, and chemical research.
Worthy of Recognition: The Confucian Ethics of Recognition
Authors: Xiang Shuchen
Published: December 2022

This paper provides a Confucian account of recognition. In contrast to contemporary recognition discourse (inspired by the Hegelian account of recognition) which emphasizes equal and reciprocal recognition, Confucianism regards the virtuous agent as one who affords recognition to others without seeking recognition for themselves. There is reason to take seriously the Confucian alternative to contemporary recognition discourse. Critical scholars of colonialism have pointed out how the politics of recognition between colonizer and colonized perpetuates the structure of unequal recognition. The comparative perspective on recognition that Confucianism offers will highlight the problematic assumptions that, I argue, actively shape misrecognition in practice.
Innovation, Creativity and the Unrealized Potential of Indian Trade Publishing
Authors: Charkin Richard
Published: December 2022

Since his first trip to India in 1975, Richard Charkin has been associated with Indian publishing, particularly the trade segment, in various ways. A vibrant and multidimensional market with possibly the biggest potential for growth, India supports a healthy mix of conglomerate and independent publishers who benefit from a world-class literary community, professional workforce and the best IT brains around. There are also a clear set of challenges and roadblocks that have kept India a relative minnow internationally. Digital distribution will continue to grow as a percentage of the total market. Going ahead, the market will be fuelled not by international companies but by Indian businesses that shed legacy ways of operating and with strong financial investment from Indian funds.
Digital Innovation in Indian Language Publishing
Authors: Rose Jaya Bhattacharji
Published: December 2022

In the past 75 years of our Independence from the British, India has experimented with a variety of publishing models. These have been effective and usually worked as a response to the environment. This article documents the variety of choices that exist in the Indian languages for readers using new digital technology. For India, in particular, it has been the standardization of Unicode that helped transform communication in the languages apart from English. This paper outlines some of those innovations in an ever-changing digital publishing landscape.
The Power of Open
Authors: Zaveri Smit
Published: December 2022

Pratham Books is a not-for-profit children’s picture book publisher headquartered in Bangalore, India, with a mission to see ‘a book in every child’s hand’. Pratham Books has been addressing the book famine in India and by extension the world through its low-cost, high-volume, multilingual publishing since 2004. But upon realizing the limitations of print, they moved towards something more audacious – adopting an open licence to create an innovative digital platform, StoryWeaver, that not only housed Pratham Books’ titles but empowered users to use, adapt, download, and translate books as they saw fit to address the gaps in their own spheres and help put books in children’s hands. In just seven years, StoryWeaver has grown 50 times in size and scope, from a repository of 800 books in 24 languages to over 45 000 books in 314 languages. By disrupting traditional publishing models, Pratham Books’ StoryWeaver has shown us what the future of publishing and reading looks like.
Meaning, Objectivity and Universality: Bavinck and Pannenberg on History and Revelation
Authors: Li (李晋) Jin
Published: December 2022

This article brings Bavinck and Pannenberg into dialogue and comparison on the theme of history. Despite the differences in their theological and social context, Bavinck and Pannenberg both seek to integrate history with theology while striving to overcome the dualism that has dichotomized history and faith since the Enlightenment. They share a common debt to the varieties of modern thought. Bavinck and Pannenberg provide modern theology with a valuable perspective on how theology might become more open and scientific in response to the difficulties posed by historical studies.
An Evaluation of the Power of Polish Language by Ukrainian Modern Language Students
Authors: Levchuk Paweł , Bihunova Svitozara , Vorobiova Iryna
Published: December 2022

The article analyses the attitude of Ukrainian modern language students towards the Polish language. The research was conducted among students of Rivne State University of the Humanities (Rivne, Ukraine). The vast majority of the respondents had never studied Polish. The languages studied at the university are English, German, French, and Russian. At the time of the study, the university did not offer the opportunity to study Polish. The urgent issue of the growing interest in studying Polish among students is an indication of the increasing power of the language, which is proved by the research.
Communicative Value of the Polish Language Among Students in Northwestern Ukraine
Authors: Levchuk Paweł , Belyavska Olena , Vaseiko Yuliia
Published: December 2022

The dynamic development of teaching Polish as a foreign language, together with the official certification of this language knowledge, leads to the necessity in examination of communication needs and language preferences of young Ukrainians. In the article, we highlighted the usefulness of the Polish language among Polish philology students and language courses in north-western Ukraine. The study involved students of two universities, namely the Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University  and the National University of Ostroh Academy. An analysis of the motivational factors for learning Polish among the respondents from Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University and the National University of Ostroh Academy shows that young people understand the importance and significance of foreign languages, including Slavic ones, in the modern world.
Dialects in the Current Sociolinguistic Situation in Ukraine
Authors: Bidnoshyia Yuri , Dyka Liudmyla
Published: December 2022

The article attempts to consider Ukrainian dialects from a sociolinguistic perspective. In particular, the article describes the factors which influence attitudes to dialects and determine its level of prestige. The main factors described are Ukraine’s language policy and teachers' approaches to students' language competence. The article gives examples of statements by scholars, writers, and dialect speakers about the place of dialect in literary language and in everyday communication, as well as the phenomenon of switching codes from dialect to literary language or from dialect to another language, which often causes discomfort for dialect speakers and provokes intolerance in their peers. Ways to form a positive image of dialects are proposed, which could help improve the image of the Ukrainian language. Important measures which could be taken to achieve this aim are an increase interest in the publication of dialect texts and the creation of literary works in dialect.
Multilingual Expatriates in Poland and Their Attitudes Towards Learning Polish
Authors: Komorowska Ewa
Published: December 2022

The article presents partial results from an online survey conducted with a group of expatriates living and working in Poland. The main aim of the study was to examine the attitude of the target group towards learning Polish, and to find the most important motivations for learning it or the reasons for not doing so. This problem has not been thoroughly researched before because expatriates previously were not treated as a separate research group. The results show, however, that they are an interesting object of study; they differ from other types of learners (e.g. academic learners) mostly because of their different motivations and attitudes towards learning Polish. The language profile of the expatriates is particularly noteworthy, especially their multilingualism, although not all are learning Polish. Their motivations to start learning the language, and the reasons for stopping to do so or for not even starting at all despite living in Poland for long time, are also worth exploring.
A novel soft end effector with active palm and fingertips for robotic picking
Authors: Guo Canzhi , Zhang Song , Yang Yu , Cheng Guanggui , Ding Jianning
Published: December 2022

Designing a type of dexterous soft end effector is the premise to guarantee the working efficiency of a picking robot. For the practical needs of grasping flat objects on the table and unscrewing the bottle cap, we have refined the advantages of traditional soft grippers and designed a novel two-finger soft end effector with active palm and also with two active fingertips. The bending of the fingers actuated by vacuum, the palm and fingertips are driven by motors. Three grasping strategies are developed for the active fingertips so that the gripper can not only grasp flat objects on the tabletop, but also unscrew a cap of a bottle. Further, benefit from the active palm and the high stiffness design method of the finger skeleton, two working modes, pinching mode and grasping mode, have been developed for the gripper. The end effector achieves a maximum grasping force of 32 N in the horizontal direction and 28 N in the vertical direction under the air pressure of −90 kPa. The working angle of the fingers is 0 °–120 °. The size of the object can be grasped ranges from 0 to 200 mm in diameter. Performance verification experiment shows that the active fingertips play an important role in helping the gripper grasp thin objects such as credit cards and printing papers. Grasping experiments on different objects demonstrate that the active fingertips design significantly enhances the flexibility of the gripper and the application it can empower the manipulator.