bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TRansPose: Large-scale multispectral dataset for transparent object
Authors: Kim Jeongyun , Jeon Myung-Hwan , Jung Sangwoo , Yang Wooseong , Jung Minwoo , Shin Jaeho , Kim Ayoung
Published: November 2023

Transparent objects are encountered frequently in our daily lives, yet recognizing them poses challenges for conventional vision sensors due to their unique material properties, not being well perceived from RGB or depth cameras. Overcoming this limitation, thermal infrared cameras have emerged as a solution, offering improved visibility and shape information for transparent objects. In this paper, we present TRansPose, the first large-scale multispectral dataset that combines stereo RGB-D, thermal infrared (TIR) images, and object poses to promote transparent object research. The dataset includes 99 transparent objects, encompassing 43 household items, 27 recyclable trashes, 29 chemical laboratory equivalents, and 12 non-transparent objects. It comprises a vast collection of 333,819 images and 4,000,056 annotations, providing instance-level segmentation masks, ground-truth poses, and completed depth information. The data was acquired using an FLIR A65 thermal infrared camera, two Intel RealSense L515 RGB-D cameras, and a Franka Emika Panda robot manipulator. Spanning 87 sequences, TRansPose covers various challenging real-life scenarios, including objects filled with water, diverse lighting conditions, heavy clutter, non-transparent or translucent containers, objects in plastic bags, and multi-stacked objects. Supplementary material can be accessed from the following link: https://sites.google.com/view/transpose-dataset .
Energy-Efficient Train Operation Optimization in Istanbul Metro Network Considering Variable Passenger Numbers
Authors: Yildiz Ahmet , Arikan Oktay , Keskin Kemal
Published: November 2023

This manuscript presents a speed trajectory optimization to minimize driving energy consumption using four different nature-inspired algorithms. For this purpose, a model was developed that can simulate motion of a single train. To test the train motion model and speed trajectories, Istanbul M3 subway line was modeled with its actual parameters such as gradient, curve, and speed limit. Concerning computational time and energy usage, a straightforward speed profile and proposed speed profiles by the algorithms have been compared. Afterwards, variable passenger numbers at each station in a certain hour were taken as dynamic mass input. With the marine predator algorithm (MPA) that finds the best result among the four, speed profile optimization was performed again under the effect of unstable mass. Finally, a train was operated by a driver according to the optimal speed profile. As a result, energy saving is 18.75% in simulation environment and 21.27% in real-life test.
Equity of Highway Noise Exposure
Authors: Dodson Thor , Dunleavy Viktoriia
Published: November 2023

This article discusses the inequities in exposure to highway noise, which can have adverse effects on health, productivity, and quality of life. If certain subpopulations tend to live near highways because of structural inequality, gentrification, lack of social capital, or other reasons, then highway noise can contribute to inequity in a systematic way. The authors developed an online mapping application, the Noise Inequity Identification Tool (NIIT), to visualize the noise damage cost of noise pollution from road segments, the noise-equity ratios at the county level, and the population distribution of various demographics. The methodology combines estimates of roadway traffic noise levels with the cost of noise damage from the hedonic pricing literature and estimates of the number of households affected to estimate the noise damage cost for each road segment in the U.S. The cost of the noise damage accruing to each demographic is then aggregated over a larger region and normalized by their proportion of the population to calculate the “noise-equity ratio,” revealing substantial inequities in highway noise exposure between demographics at a variety of spatial scales. By using this tool, planners and practitioners can easily identify regions with existing highway noise exposure inequities and pinpoint roadways with excessive noise damage costs to recommend potential externality mitigation projects.
Pursuing Profit: An Insight into the Notion, Ethics and Practices of a Trader as Depicted in the Ardhakathanaka
Authors: Malik Kalpana
Published: November 2023

It is a general belief that when a person undertakes any business enterprise, he calculates profit as his ultimate aim. Profit is defined as the monetary gain made by a person by selling something for more than it costs him. As per the norms of the economic concept of medieval Europe, moral scruples such as greed and avarice were associated with the notion of profit. This in turn acted as a hindrance to pursue profit while undertaking the profession of business. In the sixteenth century, due to Calvinism, the life of business was given a new sanctity. In the context of India, we can anchor the fact that the calculation of profit was an integral aspect of the existence of the community of bania. This can be established with the help of a study of the Ardhakathanaka—an autobiographical memoir. It was written by Banarasidas in A.D. 1641 ( V.S. 1698) when he was living at Agra. Banarasidas was a middle-class Jain merchant. While understanding the notion of profit, the present article looks into the aspect of whether religion acts as a restraint or promotes business as a profession. It enables us to seek an insight into the mercantile world of the early sixteenth and late seventeenth centuries. This was also the time when the Mughal Empire was in its heyday. The Ardhakathanaka is an invaluable contemporary source; hence, it has great historical value. Profit being an integral aspect of mercantile life, this feature is explicitly highlighted in the Ardhakathanaka. We get to know about the motives and methods employed by the bania community to earn profit. Despite providing immense, crucial information associated with mercantile life, historians have not highlighted this aspect of the Ardhakathanaka. The article is an attempt to draw the gaze of historians to a primary source providing vital first-hand information regarding the motives and methods in the pursuit of profit during the medieval period.
Identification and development of TP53 mutation-associated Long non-coding RNAs signature for optimized prognosis assessment and treatment selection in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chu Chenghao , Liu Daoli , Wang Duofa , Hu Shuangjiu , Zhang Yongwei
Published: November 2023

Background

The TP53 gene is estimated to be mutated in over 50% of tumors, with the majority of tumors exhibiting abnormal TP53 signaling pathways. However, the exploration of TP53 mutation-related LncRNAs in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains incomplete. This study aims to identify such LncRNAs and enhance the prognostic accuracy for Hepatoma patients.

Material and Methods

Differential gene expression was identified using the “limma” package in R. Prognosis-related LncRNAs were identified via univariate Cox regression analysis, while a prognostic model was crafted using multivariate Cox regression analysis. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan–Meier curves. The precision of the prognostic model was assessed through ROC analysis. Subsequently, the Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) algorithm were executed on the TCGA dataset via the TIDE database. Fractions of 24 types of immune cell infiltration were obtained from NCI Cancer Research Data Commons using deconvolution techniques. The protein expression levels encoded by specific genes were obtained through the TPCA database.

Results

In this research, we have identified 85 LncRNAs associated with TP53 mutations and developed a corresponding signature referred to as TP53MLncSig. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a lower 3-year survival rate in high-risk patients (46.9%) compared to low-risk patients (74.2%). The accuracy of the prognostic TP53MLncSig was further evaluated by calculating the area under the ROC curve. The analysis yielded a 5-year ROC score of 0.793, confirming its effectiveness. Furthermore, a higher score for TP53MLncSig was found to be associated with an increased response rate to immune checkpoint blocker (ICB) therapy ( p = .005). Patients possessing high-risk classification exhibited lower levels of P53 protein expression and higher levels of genomic instability.

Conclusion

The present study aimed to identify and validate LncRNAs associated with TP53 mutations. We constructed a prognostic model that can predict chemosensitivity and response to ICB therapy in HCC patients. This novel approach sheds light on the role of LncRNAs in TP53 mutation and provides valuable resources for analyzing patient prognosis and treatment selection.
Petrographic analysis of Oligocene carbonates of Kachchh basin
Authors: Patil Shweta , Pundalik Ashwin , Pansare Eshan
Published: November 2023

The Kachchh basin is located on the northwestern margin of India. The basin consists of a relatively continuous sequence of sediments from the Mesozoic, followed by the Deccan Traps and finally a complete sequence of the Cenozoic sediments. The Cenozoic sediments of Kachchh basin are mainly shallow marine deposits characterised by five formations viz. Matanomadh, Naredi, Harudi, Fulra Limestone and Maniyara Fort Formation. The Maniyara Fort Formation belongs to the Oligocene age. The field and petrographic characteristics of the Oligocene limestones from the Golay river section were studied in order to understand the depositional environment. The petrographic investigation of the carbonate rocks of three members of the Maniyara Fort Formation, namely Lumpy Clay Member, Coral Limestone Member and Bermoti Member provides important information for understanding the depositional facies and diagenetic signatures. The Lumpy Clay Member has shale-siltstones with interbedded limestones, characteristically composed of a significant proportion of detrital grains of quartz and some lithic fragments. The lithic fragments are sub-angular to rounded, which indicates substantial transport. They are also worn down and broken, bear small cracks which are filled by micritic matrix or mud. The presence of stylolitic seams within the limestone (though not significant) along with mud filling is also noticed. The dissolution is not prominent, pointing towards shallow burial of the sediments. Paucity of marine fossils as well as the rarity of foraminifera in the Lumpy Clay Member indicate a restricted to semi-restricted shallow marine environment. The limestones of the Coral Limestone Member are petrographically classified as packstone, wackestone and mudstone. Thus, the environment of deposition seems to have varied from restricted lagoonal to shallow marine environment. The Bermoti Member is characterised by a lens of claystone, which consists of both greyish to yellow coloured claystones interbedded with limestones. The Bermoti limestones are petrographically classified as packstone, wackestone and mudstone assemblage. The limestones were observed to be highly micritised, which indicates open, shallow marine settings. The Maniyara Fort Formation, thus characterised by wackestone-packstone-mudstone facies of carbonates, is interpreted to be part of a carbonate ramp system. The limestones from Maniyara Fort Formation exhibit signatures of marine as well as meteoric diagenesis.
Integrating Computational Thinking Into Scaffolding Learning: An Innovative Approach to Enhance Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Hands-On Learning
Authors: Lee Hsin-Yu , Wu Ting-Ting , Lin Chia-Ju , Wang Wei-Sheng , Huang Yueh-Min
Published: November 2023

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is essential for developing future-ready learners in both secondary and higher education levels. However, as students transition to higher education, many encounter challenges with independent learning and research. This can negatively impact their Higher-Order Thinking Skills (HOTS), engagement, and practical expertise. This study introduces a solution: Computational Thinking Scaffolding (CTS) in the Jupyter Notebook environment, designed to enhance STEM education at the tertiary level. CTS incorporates five phases: Decomposition, Pattern Recognition, Abstraction, Algorithm Design, and Evaluation. Utilizing a quasi-experimental method, we assessed the impact of CTS on the HOTS, engagement, and practical skills of undergraduate and postgraduate students. Our findings hold substantial relevance for university educators, academic advisors, and curriculum designers aiming to enhance students’ HOTS and hands-on capabilities in STEM disciplines. The results validate the effectiveness of CTS in elevating tertiary STEM learning outcomes, and they spotlight the adaptability of the Jupyter Notebook as a valuable tool in higher education. In conclusion, our research underscores the merits of CTS for improving outcomes in higher STEM education and sets a benchmark for future endeavors in this domain.
Introduction to special issue: New research on leaders and peace science
Authors: Carter Jeff
Published: November 2023

Research on political leaders has reshaped our understanding of international relations over the last 25 years. Much of the most influential contemporary research on leaders resides firmly in the peace science tradition, in terms of its substantive focus on interstate conflict processes and theoretical and methodological approaches to generating and empirically assessing expectations about politics. The articles in this special issue build upon this work to provide us with new insights into leaders’ influence on world politics.
The Pathway Building Technique in Implementation Research Using Mixed Methods Design
Authors: Younas Ahtisham , Porr Caroline , Maddigan Joy , Moore Julia E , Navarro Pablo , Whitehead Dean
Published: November 2023

Background

Data integration refers to combining quantitative and qualitative data in mixed methods. It can be achieved through several integration procedures. The building integration procedure can be used for developing quantitative instruments by integrating data from the qualitative phase. There are limited examples of data integration using the building procedure in mixed methods and implementation science.

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to illustrate how the pathway building technique can be used to integrate data in mixed methods research through concurrent use of implementation science models and frameworks.

Methods

This two pathway building technique was developed based on a mixed methods implementation project of developing implementation strategies to promote compassionate nursing care of complex patients.

Results

The first pathway is the integration of qualitative data from the first phase of mixed methods study with implementation models and frameworks to create a quantitative instrument (i.e., a Q-sort survey) for the subsequent phase. The second pathway is the operationalization of the Q-sort survey results (i.e., implementation strategies) using an implementation science specification framework.

Conclusion

The pathway technique is valuable for mixed methods research and implementation science as it offers a theory-based innovative method to tackle integration challenge.
Small Monetary Incentives Lead to Greater Adherence in a Weight Loss Program
Authors: Shetty Armaan , Yang Qiuyu , Pendergast Jane , Leverson Glen , Shaw Ryan , Voils Corrine I. , Gavin Kara L.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Understand how weekly monetary incentives for dietary tracking and/or weight loss impact 6-month weight loss behavioral adherence.

Design

Secondary analysis of participants randomized to one of four conditions in a behavioral weight loss intervention: incentives for dietary tracking, incentives for weight loss, both, or none.

Setting

Participants were asked to self-weigh at least twice weekly, log food and drink in a mobile application five days weekly, and attend bi-weekly, group-based classes.

Sample

Data from (n = 91) adults with obesity who completed a 24-week behavioral weight loss intervention of whom 88% were female and 74% Non-Hispanic White, were analyzed.

Measures

Non-adherence to weight and dietary self-monitoring was defined as the second week of not meeting criteria. Class attendance was also tracked.

Analysis

Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to examine differences across the four conditions.

Results

Participants incentivized for dietary self-monitoring had an average 15.8 weeks (SE:1.2) until the first non-adherent week compared to 5.9 weeks (SE:0.8) for those not incentivized for dietary self-monitoring ( P < .01). Those incentivized for weight loss had an average 18.0 weeks (SE:1.02) of self-weighing until the first non-adherent week compared to 13.5 weeks (SE:1.3) for those not incentivized for weight loss ( P = .02). No difference in class attendance was observed.

Conclusions

Incentivizing behaviors associated with weight loss improved adherence to those behaviors and does not appear to spill over to non-incentivized behaviors.
Moving towards darkness: The personality-environment association between the Dark Triad and residential mobility
Authors: Zuo Shijiang , Zhu Xueli , Wang Fang , Huang Niwen , Cai Pan
Published: November 2023

Population migration, as one of the most significant activities in human history and current societies, can shape a mobile social ecology entwined with personality traits. In this research, we tested whether the Dark Triad personality traits would adaptively emerge in and self-select into a residentially mobile ecology across eight studies (total N = 6147). Studies 1–2 demonstrated the relationship between residential mobility and the Dark Triad traits. Personal residential mobility was positively related to the Dark Triad traits (Study 1b), and this relationship was detected by lay persons (Study 1a). Residents living in a country (Study 2a) or a province (Study 2b) with a high net population outflow reported a high level of the Dark Triad traits. Studies 3–4 explored the interplay of residential mobility and the Dark Triad traits. Studies 3a–3b revealed the shaping effect of residential mobility, showing that individuals with the mindset of residential mobility (vs. stability) tended to resort to the Dark Triad traits. In contrast, individuals who possess a high level of Dark Triad traits prefer a mobile lifestyle (Study 4a) and a residence with high outflow (Study 4b). Together, this research empirically illuminated the associations and the interactions between residential mobility and personality traits.
Informalization and Temporary Labor Migration: Rethinking Japan’s Technical Intern Training Program From a Denationalized View
Authors: Onuki Hironori
Published: November 2023

This article asks how Japan’s Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) has promoted a transfiguration of employer into predator who utilizes fraudulent economic strategies to exploit trainees under the abusive conditions. Situating Japan’s case within the global dynamics of temporary labor migration as well as drawing on the critical discussions about the ‘informal economy’, I argue that the formation and expansion of the unequal capital–labor power relations, facilitated by the processes of informalization under the TITP in Japan and the sending countries, has constructed trainees as precarious workers and augmented the dehumanized treatment of these workers by their employers. Specifically utilizing Slavnic’s notion of the two patterns of informalization—‘informalization from above’ and ‘informalization from below’—from a de-nationalized perspective, this article illustrates how the involvement of so-called labor migration intermediaries at both departure and destination sites has affected trainees’ hierarchical and discriminatory relationships with their employers in Japan.
The Gender-Equality Paradox in Chess Holds Among Young Players: A Commentary on the Vishkin (2022) Study
Authors: Napp Clotilde , Breda Thomas
Published: November 2023

Vishkin (2022) shows that female participation in chess is lower in more gender equal countries (the “gender-equality paradox”) but that this relation is driven by the mean age of the players in a country, which makes it more of an epiphenomenon than a real paradox. Relying on the same data on competitive chess players ( N = 768,480 from 91 countries) as well as on data on 15-year-old students ( N = 312,571 from 64 countries), we show that the gender-equality paradox for chess holds among young players. The paradox also remains on the whole population of chess players when controlling for the age of the players at the individual rather than at the country level or when controlling for age differences across countries. Therefore, there is a gender-equality paradox in chess that is not entirely driven by a generational shift mechanism as argued by Vishkin (2022), and previous explanations for the paradox cannot be dismissed.
Belief updating when confronted with scientific evidence: Examining the role of trust in science
Authors: Rosman Tom , Grösser Sianna
Published: November 2023

In one exploratory study ( N = 985) and one preregistered study ( N = 1100), we investigated whether trust in science influences belief change on a medico-scientific issue when laypersons are confronted with scientific evidence. Moreover, we tested whether individuals with high trust in science trust science “blindly,” meaning that their trust in a scientific claim’s source prevents them from adequately evaluating the claim itself. Participants read eight fictitious studies on the efficacy of acupuncture, which were experimentally manipulated regarding direction (evidence favoring acupuncture vs diverging evidence) and quality (high vs low; only Study 2). Acupuncture-related beliefs were measured before and after reading. Moderator and mediator analyses showed that the magnitude of belief change indeed depends on trust in science. Furthermore, we found that people with high trust in science are better able to evaluate the quality of scientific studies, which, in turn, protects them from being influenced by low-quality evidence.
Telecinematic stylistics: Language and style in fantasy TV series
Authors: Castro Adrián
Published: November 2023

The language of written fantasy has been amply studied, with extensive research on authors such as JRR Tolkien, Robert E Howard, or Aldous Huxley. The study of television language, on the other hand, is attracting increasing attention, even though the scope of such research often encompasses a single TV show rather than whole genres. Given the renewed interest in all things fantasy, this study seeks to analyze the language of fantasy TV series from a corpus-stylistic perspective to open new paths for linguistic inquiry. First, I depart from a theoretical distinction that relies on Mandala’s (2012) overview of the field and James and Mendlesohn’s (2012) definitions of fantasy as a genre; I consider some of the traits they associate with written fantasy and propose a taxonomy of the different types of fantasy worlds in television. On the basis of this, I design my own TV fantasy corpus by sampling three episodes from fifteen American fantasy TV shows (2011–2021) and compare it against Davies’ TV Corpus (2021). Using a corpus-based approach, I implement a POS (part-of-speech) and semantic analysis of the corpus and consider whether, and if so how, the language of fantasy in television reflects the same characteristics scholars have identified in written fantasy and general television discourse. In doing so, I aim to contribute to the understanding of the style of fantasy as a genre and assess whether fantasy TV series are characterized by particular linguistic features.
Classification of Listeria species using near infrared hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Matenda Rumbidzai T , Rip Diane , Williams Paul J
Published: November 2023

Near infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging and multivariate data analysis was evaluated for its potential to detect and classify Listeria species. Three Listeria species, namely L. monocytogenes (ATCC 23074), L. innocua (ATCC 33090) and L. ivanovii (ATCC 19119) were grown for single colonies on Brain Heart Infusion agar and imaged in the NIR range of 950–2500 nm. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used for data exploration and to establish pattern recognition. Images were pre-processed with standard normal variate correction and the Savitzky-Golay smoothing technique (third order polynomial with 15 points). Two approaches to data analysis, that is object-wise and pixel-wise analysis, were investigated for discriminant analysis. The PCA score plot showed slight separation between the three groups with L. monocytogenes and L. ivanovii grouping close together. It was possible to visualise separation along PC3 (5.64% sum of squares (SS)) and PC4 (3.44% SS). Based on the loadings, differences in bacteria were attributed to teichoic acids, protein, and carbohydrate composition in the bacterial cell wall within the wavelength range 1000–1900 nm. Using extracted spectral data from the hypercubes, partial least squares discriminant analysis was employed for further classification. Classification accuracies above 90% were achieved for L. monocytogenes, L. innocua and L. ivanovii. This was true for data analysed using both pixel-wise analysis and object-wise analysis. The results demonstrated that hyperspectral imaging has notable potential to classify bacteria within the Listeria genus. Nonetheless, in order to improve model efficiency, model optimisation and incorporation of more bacterial strains need to be investigated in further research.
Dr. Allen Oldfather Whipple (1881–1963): Namesake of the pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Hall Ashton D. , Kumar Julia E. , Mazur Jan P. , Bondoc Alexander J. , Giffin Bruce F. , Bryant Whitney K.
Published: November 2023

Allen O. Whipple was an American surgeon who popularized the pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) for periampullary cancer, which remains the gold standard for pancreatic tumor resections. Whipple was educated at Princeton University (B.S., 1904) and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons (M.D., 1908). He swiftly ascended the academic ranks, culminating in his appointment as Professor of Surgery at Columbia and Director of Surgical Services at Presbyterian Hospital in 1921. Whipple published three criteria (Whipple's triad) for evaluating hyperinsulinism secondary to pancreatic insulinoma. He also revived interest in portocaval anastomosis to reduce portal hypertension, determining it to be a consequence of liver disease. During his 40-year career, Whipple introduced the concept of multidisciplinary teams and prospective data collection. He also shaped the structure of surgical training as President of the American Surgical Association and Chairman of the American Board of Surgery. Beyond the walls of the operating room, Whipple was a Renaissance Man whose childhood in Persia (Iran) engendered a lifelong interest in the region's art, culture, history, and medicine. Dr. Allen Oldfather Whipple is remembered as a pioneering physician and surgeon beloved by those who trained under him.
What are the economic impacts of short food supply chains? A local multiplier effect (LM3) evaluation
Authors: Kłoczko-Gajewska Anna , Malak-Rawlikowska Agata , Majewski Edward , Wilkinson Adam , Gorton Matthew , Tocco Barbara , Wąs Adam , Saïdi Monia , Török Áron , Veneziani Mario
Published: November 2023

Shortening food supply chains attracts increasing support from policymakers, to improve returns to farmers and stimulate rural development. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence regarding the impacts of short food supply chains on local economies. To address this, the article quantifies the impacts of short food supply chains on local economies, using the Keynesian-based Local Multiplier 3 method (LM3), applied to a unique dataset of 122 farm businesses from five European Union countries (France, Hungary, Italy, Poland and the United Kingdom). Estimations cover 305 market chains, comprising both short and long food supply chains, in which sampled farmers participate. The results indicate that the revenues from farm production remain largely within local economies, generating a substantial multiplier effect (LM3 > 2). This effect stems from purchases of farm inputs locally including, in the first instance, hiring local labour, as well as the expenditures of local suppliers that re-spend part of their revenues within the local area. The multiplier effects of short food supply chains are similar to long food supply chain equivalents as both use largely local labour and source tradable inputs locally. In shaping food chain policy a broader set of socioeconomic benefits to local development from selling through short food supply chains should be considered.
The Influence of Economic Perception on the Adoption of App-based Financial Transactions: A Study Among the Young Population in India
Authors: Ghosh Dona , Chowdhury Sahana Roy , M Apoorva
Published: November 2023

Various sectors have been undergoing major changes due to digitalisation. Among these sectors, the finance sector is one which is largely affected due to online banking, cash to cashless, and so on, and digital finance instruments in India have witnessed a revolutionary change over the last decade. By financial instrument, we refer to the various digital financial apps which are used for online cashless transactions such as Paytm, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, PayZapp and so on. The primary emphasis of this research is on the wide range of digital financial instruments and their subsequent adoption in India, based on a survey conducted on 600 individuals (young) from July to October 2021. The study will offer brief discussions of the advantages of utilising these instruments, the challenges of using these instruments, other variables that are keeping individuals from using these apps, and so on. Questionnaire distribution and collection is the major data-gathering approach used to learn about people’s views on these financial products. Attitude, perception and social norms are briefly reviewed and analysed as they pertain to the individual’s decision and intention to utilise digital apps. Following the expected utility theory people are rational, and we find evidence that during economic crises economic entities behave differently and economic incentives may not often work if they have a strong negative perception of the economy. Our result strengthens these arguments, it reveals that economic perception considerably moderated the connection between perceived usefulness and mobile apps for money transactions (MAMT) use implying that economic perception strengthens the impact of the independent variable. On the other hand, the result shows that economic perception significantly weakens the impact of social influence on the usage of MAMT. However, the perceived economic crisis has no moderating impact on the relationship between perceived ease of use and usage of MAMT. This has something to do with innovation, and creating intrinsic product or service-based value addition that hardly changes with the economy’s perception—whether it is in crisis or a business-as-usual. The present study in the Indian context contrasts with most of the literature that concludes based on pre-COVID scenarios, and, thus, has wider business implications in the new-normal world. Mobile app developers now should emphasise factors while optimising and designing their pricing and promotional strategies.
From Cash to Cashless: Understanding Users’ Switching Intentions from Cash to Mobile Payment Applications
Authors: Saibil Defi Insani , Khoirunnisa Annes Nisrina , Yusfiarto Rizaldi
Published: November 2023

Mobile payments (MP) are the main driver for creating a cashless society in Indonesia. However, the use of this technology still does not show its significance, especially when compared to similar countries. Therefore, this study proposes a theoretical framework based on push–pull–mooring, with factors derived from motivation theory, technology acceptance model and other theories. The research findings underscore the comparison of perceived value internally (efficiency and effectiveness) and externally (discounts, rebates and others) as push and pull factors for users to switch from cash to MP. Furthermore, mooring proxies represented by switching costs and self-efficacy provide a unique understanding of the body of knowledge in the discussed field. The practical action proposed for MP service providers is to always improve quality in terms of accessibility for technical use, and collaboration with related parties is important. Also, for policymakers in Indonesia, deployment of information technology infrastructure and accommodating policies to facilitate licensing for service providers to ensure the security of deposit funds, user data and personal profiles.
General practitioners’ attitudes and knowledge about attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Insights from a survey
Authors: Kwon Susie , Bhurawala Habib , Munoz Anita , Kramer John , Poulton Alison
Published: November 2023

Objective

The Review of health services for children, young people and families within the NSW Health system identified that novel models of care were needed to improve access to clinical management for people with ADHD. The present study aimed to evaluate GPs’ knowledge of and attitudes towards ADHD and the challenges and opportunities for a more substantial role for GPs in ADHD management.

Method

An online survey of Australian GPs was conducted, with recruitment via email invitation.

Results

Out of 230 respondents, 213 surveys could be analysed. Of these, 97% believed ADHD was a genuine condition, with 90% identifying inattention as a primary symptom. Most (92%) had seen and diagnosed ADHD within the past year. Prevalent concerns included inadequate access to specialist assessment and treatment; 77% felt that GPs should have a more substantial role in ADHD management. Barriers included lack of time, knowledge and experience.

Conclusions

There was willingness amongst respondents take on a greater role in managing individuals with ADHD. However, a need for further training and education was highlighted. The Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline for ADHD may resolve an identified need for clinical guidance.
CleftED: A National Collaborative Study of Undergraduate Education and Exposure to Cleft lip and Palate Within the United Kingdom
Authors: Rehman Umar , Pezas Theodore , Timoney Norma , Atherton Duncan ,   UK Plastics Research Collaborative
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Cleft Lip and/or Palate (CLP) are the most common congenital orofacial anomalies. Those involved in CLP care may extend beyond the core members of the Cleft multidisciplinary team (MDT) with a variety of medical healthcare professionals destined to contribute to the management of CLP patients at some point during their respective careers. Therefore, it seems essential that a basic understanding of CLP, CLP-associated problems, and potential avenues for direct or indirect involvement in CLP care be introduced at undergraduate level.

Aims

To investigate penultimate and final year undergraduate medical student CLP knowledge and exposure obtained whilst at medical school.

Methodology

An online questionnaire was distributed to penultimate and final year medical students throughout the UK.

Results

A total of 3102 responses were received from 35 medical schools. 44.3% (n  =  1374) of respondents had no exposure to CLP teaching up until their current year of education. 61.3% (n  =  1903) of respondents had never been involved in the care of a CLP patient. 53.6% (n  =  1662) of respondents were not confident in their current knowledge of CLP. 78.5% (n  =  2257) of respondents indicated a desire to be involved in the care of CLP patients in their future career.

Conclusion

More than half of the medical student survey respondents were not confident in their current knowledge of CLP and had limited involvement in CLP care. This may translate to a delay in diagnosis when students qualify. Improving CLP education and exposure during undergraduate training can help achieve national CLP standards for early diagnosis.
¿Quién Soy Yo? Voces Poéticas as Poetic Inquiry
Authors: Garza Mitchell Regina L. , Cardoso Reyes Adriana , Garcia Lisa R.
Published: November 2023

In this article, we share the results of a year-long project (a poem) and the process by which we created the poem, which we term voces poéticas. The poem is the result of 11 pláticas held over the course of nearly one year and is composed of words, phrases, and sentences that represent our experiences and identities as Chicanas/Latinas/Mexicanas in the academy. Our pláticas provided a safe place where we shared and held space to reflect on our experiences at predominantly white institutions (PWI) and theorized our experiences in relation to other Chicanas/Latinas in the academy. At the heart of this process was a type of poetic inquiry we call voces poéticas that was used to analyze and share our findings. We describe this process of creation that we also view as an act of resistance.
Using Quotes to Present Claims: Practices for the Writing Stages of Qualitative Research
Authors: Rockmann Kevin W. , Vough Heather C.
Published: November 2023

While there has been a great deal of guidance on qualitative research methodology, such scholarship has focused almost exclusively on the first three parts of the qualitative process: study design, data gathering, and coding/analysis. We suggest that writing findings is a fourth stage that involves pre-writing and composing. Our intent is to provide practices for this phase for those who are using qualitative data as the evidentiary basis for their claims. The pre-writing phase is strengthened by structuring claims and storyboarding findings, while the composing phase is improved by critically evaluating how to insert the author's voice. Practices surrounding qualitative writing are discussed, such as which quotes to include, where to place quotes, and how to edit quotes. Annotated examples are also provided that show both recommended and nonrecommended ways of inserting the author's voice into a findings section. A sample structure for writing a claim—a claim table—and a sample storyboard are provided.
Integrated Supports for Women and Girls Experiencing Substance Use and Complex Needs
Authors: Flannigan Katherine , Murphy Lisa , Pei Jacqueline
Published: November 2023

There is strong research to support integrated and gender-sensitive harm reduction approaches for supporting women, girls, and gender diverse people. For individuals who are pregnant, flexible and integrated treatment approaches may be especially important. In this study, we report on an integrated program in rural Canada designed to support pregnant women, girls, and gender diverse people experiencing substance use and other complex needs. Program data (N = 393) from the 2nd Floor Women’s Recovery Centre (2nd Floor) at the Lakeland Centre for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (LCFASD) was analyzed with several aims. Study goals were to (1) describe characteristics and needs of clients, (2) identify factors associated with program completion, and (3) for a subset of clients, examine resources, wellbeing, and social and behavioral outcomes after treatment. Clients ( Mage = 27.4 years, range 15-64) presented at the 2nd Floor with complex medical and mental health needs, and experiences of significant socioenvironmental adversity. However, almost two-thirds (63.4%) successfully completed the program, which was more likely for clients who had stable housing at intake and a possible or confirmed diagnosis of FASD. After treatment, clients reported high levels of wellbeing, and most were connected to health care and community resources. In the year after program completion, clients who were contacted for follow-up maintained strong connection to resources and reported notable improvements in social and behavioral functioning. Many were working or volunteering, most were in stable home environments, rates of substance use and legal involvement were substantially reduced, and many clients were actively caring for their children. This study offers important findings to inform future research, practice, and policy for supporting health and wellbeing for women, children, families, and communities.
Residual stresses effects on fatigue crack growth behavior of rib-to-deck double-sided welded joints in orthotropic steel decks
Authors: Chen Fanghuai , Zhang Haiping , Li Zhaochao , Luo Yuan , Xiao Xinhui , Liu Yang
Published: November 2023

Rib-to-deck (RTD) innovative double-sided welded joints have the potential to enhance the fatigue resistance of orthotropic steel decks (OSDs). However, welding residual stress (WRS) has been reported to be a contributing factor to fatigue cracking of steel bridges. This paper performed fatigue crack growth of the RTD innovative double-sided welded joints of OSD considering WRS. Firstly, a thermal-mechanical sequential coupling finite element model (FEM) of the RTD double-sided welded joints was established. The WRS distribution along the direction of deck thickness was analyzed. Secondly, the FEM of the OSD segment with crack was established. The fatigue crack behavior of RTD double-sided welded joints under the combined action of vehicle load and WRS was studied. Finally, the influences of initial crack on fatigue life was analyzed. Results indicate the distribution of the transverse WRS along the direction of deck thickness is tension-compression-tension stress, which has the characteristics of the sinusoidal function. The ∆ Keff value increases significantly considering WRS than without considering WRS during crack growth. WRS has a significant effect on fatigue life, and the fatigue life of the weld toe without considering WRS is about twice that of considering WRS. The crack depth and aspect ratio ( a0/ c0) of the initial crack affect the fatigue life of RTD double-sided welded joints.
Efficient scheduling and attendance system for the ultrasound department under demand uncertainty during COVID-19
Authors: Zhang Yong , Luo Yan , Ling Wenwu , Lu Xiao , Qiu Li , Chen Yang
Published: November 2023

Scheduling and attendance management present huge challenges for hospitals, and the importance of both has become more critical as resource limitations and overwhelmingly uncertain demand are becoming more evident, especially during COVID-19. Important variables and factors need to be considered. When managers address this problem, they either use a manual approach or invest in expensive commercial tools. We propose a simple and flexible system that requires no extra investment. This system was developed using Ding Talk, Microsoft Excel and Visual C#. Ding Talk was used to collect vacation applications and clock information. A VBA-based Microsoft Excel program was developed to schedule shifts. A Windows Forms Application based on Visual C# was developed to complete the workload and attendance statistics. We focused on the design and implementation of the module of schedule generation and attendance management. Using the practical data of the Ultrasound Department, we compared the time spent on scheduling and attendance before and after the system was established. The results demonstrate that the system is feasible and efficient. Its high flexibility enables managers to quickly modify the schedule and attendance statistics to achieve dynamic management when dealing with inevitable demand changes during COVID-19.
Meta-analysis of the Prognostic Value of microRNA-22 in Leukemia Patients
Authors: Xia Jing , Xu Daming , Qin Yuanling , Wan Faguang , Ren Yongwei , Bu Chaozhi , Li Tianyu
Published: November 2023

Objective: The pathogenesis of leukemia is complex and there are no effective diagnostic and prognostic indicators. Previous studies showed that microRNA-22 (miR-22) has altered expression level in multiple leukemia subtypes, which is associated with the survival outcomes of leukemia. Methods: According to the constituted retrieval strategy, eligible studies were included from January 2010 to November 2022 by searching database. The pooled Risk Ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to study the relationship between miR-22 and survival. Stata12.0 was used for meta-analysis. Differential expression analysis was conducted based on expression profile of miRNA. Results: Four English articles were included containing a total of 215 leukemia patients. Data showed that the pooled RR for overall survival (OS) was 1.558 (95% CI: 1.197-2.028, P < .01). Subgroup analysis for OS of acute myeloid leukemia patients and the RFS of plasma cell leukemia patients were statistically significant with different expression levels of miR-22 (RR:1.495, 95%CI:1.141-1.958, P < .01 and RR:1.517, 95%CI:1.114-2.065, P < .01, respectively). Moreover, all data included had no significant heterogeneity and publication bias. Conclusions: miR-22 is associated with the survival outcome of leukemia patients suggesting that miR-22 may be a promising prognostic biomarker for this patient population, and the expression level of miR-22 in ALL patients down-regulated.
An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Clinical Studies of Acupuncture for Cancer Pain
Authors: Zhang Di , Ji Yue , Lv Liu , Zhou Qiongyang , Liu Zhijiang , Zhang Chenlin , Chen Shanshan
Published: November 2023

Background:

Systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) for the use of acupuncture for cancer pain have been increasing, but the evidence has not been systematically and comprehensively assessed. We aimed to perform an overview of the evidence quality of SRs/MAs of acupuncture for improving cancer pain.

Methods:

8 databases were systematically searched to identify SRs/MAs of acupuncture for improving cancer pain. The A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2), Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS), Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), and Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE), respectively, were applied by 2 independent reviewers to evaluate the methodological quality, risk of bias, reporting quality, and evidence quality.

Results:

A total of 14 SRs/MAs were included in the present study. By AMSTAR-2, two reviews were rated as having high methodological quality, while 12 were given a critically low rating. All SRs/MAs in Phase 1, Domain 1, and Domain 4, according to ROBIS, were at low risk. Furthermore, 4 reviews in Domain 2, twelve reviews in Domain 3, and ten SRs/MAs in Phase 3, were rated as having low risk of bias. With reporting quality, some reporting flaws were identified in the topic of protocol and registration, additional analyses, and search strategy. According to GRADE, the level of evidence quality was “critically low” to “moderate,” and risk of bias was the most common downgraded factor.

Conclusion:

Acupuncture may be beneficial in improving cancer pain. However, due to the identified limitations and inconsistent findings, we recommend further rigorous, and more standardized SRs/MAs to provide strong evidence for definitive conclusions.