bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Employee Retention in Modern Shopping Centers: The Impact of Training and Job Design in Surabaya
Authors: Novianto Iful , Rizqiawan Hendrik , Indrawati Trisa
Published: August 2023

This quantitative study examines the influence of training and job design on employee retention in modern shopping centers in Surabaya. The analysis of 35 experienced respondents reveals that both training and job design are highly valued factors, with average scores above 3.25. Job design particularly stands out with an average score of 3.51. Regression analysis confirms that both training and job design significantly impact employee retention, emphasizing their crucial role in supporting employee performance and retaining valuable workforce in the retail industry. This research aligns with previous studies highlighting the positive correlation between training and employee retention, as well as the impact of job design on retention in other organizational settings. The findings offer valuable insights for HR practitioners and decision-makers aiming to enhance employee retention strategies in modern shopping centers.

Highlight:

mportance of Training and Job Design: The study emphasizes the significance of providing appropriate training and favorable job design to employees working in modern shopping centers, as these factors are considered crucial for enhancing employee retention.

Quantitative Approach: The research adopts a quantitative approach, employing descriptive and regression analyses, to explore the relationship between training, job design, and employee retention in Surabaya's modern shopping centers.

Significant Impact: Findings reveal that both training and job design have a significant effect on employee retention, as perceived by employees, underscoring their role in retaining skilled workforce within the retail industry.

Keyword: Employee Retention, Training, Job Design, Modern Shopping Centers, Surabaya
The Urgency of Strategic Plan Management in Improving Madrasah Quality
Authors: Istikomah Istikomah , Romadlon Dzulfikar Akbar , Nadlif Ainun
Published: August 2023

Madrasah in Indonesia are educational institutions whose curriculum contains Islamic lessons, which are often managed without proper planning. In this paper, the author will conduct a conceptual study based on existing literature regarding preparing strategic plans for improving management in madrasas. The conclusion of this study shows that strategic planning is essential in determining the direction of madrasah development in the future. Before compiling the madrasah strategic planning document, define the vision and mission to be achieved by all stakeholders. Then the madrasa conducts a SWOT analysis to determine its strengths and weaknesses and performs an environmental analysis to determine the weaknesses and strengths of the institution for the successful achievement of its mission and goals. After all stakeholders in the madrasa know the institution's condition, it is necessary to set targets that need to be evaluated annually.

Highlights:

Strategic Planning: Strategic planning is crucial for determining the future development direction of madrasahs, ensuring effective management and achievement of goals.

SWOT Analysis: Conducting a SWOT analysis helps identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the madrasah, guiding decision-making and improvement efforts.

Stakeholder Involvement: Involving all stakeholders in defining the vision, mission, and strategic goals fosters a shared sense of ownership and commitment to the madrasah's success.

Keywords: Madrasah, Strategic Planning, SWOT Analysis, Stakeholders, Targets
The Impact Of Tiket.Com Website Quality And E-Trust On Concert Ticket Purchasing Decision
Authors: Wahyuni Risma Ika , Purwanto Nuri
Published: August 2023

This quantitative research aims to investigate the influence of Website Quality and E-Trust on the purchasing decisions of concert tickets among EXO fans using Tiket.com services. Employing a descriptive research method, data was collected from 100 respondents through purposive sampling and analyzed using SPSS. The study revealed that both Website Quality and E-Trust significantly affect the concert ticket purchase decisions of EXO fans. These findings contribute to the understanding of online consumer behavior and hold implications for ticket reservation services, emphasizing the importance of attractive, easily accessible websites and robust online trust mechanisms to foster positive purchase decisions.

Highlights:

Significance of Website Quality: The study examines the impact of website quality on purchase decisions, emphasizing the need for an attractive and user-friendly online platform to enhance customer engagement and conversion rates.

Crucial Role of E-Trust: The research highlights the pivotal role of online trust in influencing consumers' decisions to purchase concert tickets online, underlining the importance of establishing secure and reliable platforms.

Insights into EXO Fans' Behavior: The study provides valuable insights into the behavior of EXO fans as they engage with ticket reservation services, aiding businesses in catering to the preferences of this specific target audience.

Keywords: Website Quality, E-Trust, Purchase Decision, Concert Tickets, EXO Fans
Teenagers' Purchasing Decisions: Shopping Lifestyle and Brand Ambassadors' Influence
Authors: Huda Ahmad Fatkul , Purwanto Nuri
Published: August 2023

This quantitative study aimed to investigate the impact of shopping lifestyle and brand ambassadors on the purchasing decisions of MS GLOW FOR MEN body care products among teenagers in Jombang Regency. The sample consisted of 100 individuals selected using simple random sampling. Data was collected through questionnaires and literature review. SPSS analysis revealed a significant positive effect of shopping lifestyle and brand ambassador variables on the decision to purchase MS GLOW FOR MEN products. These findings contribute to understanding consumer behavior in the skincare market, emphasizing the importance of marketing strategies that incorporate brand ambassadors and cater to diverse shopping lifestyles for successful product sales and brand loyalty.

Highlights: 

Significance of Brand Ambassadors: Explore the impact of brand ambassadors on consumer purchasing decisions for men's body care products.

Influence of Shopping Lifestyle: Investigate how shopping lifestyle affects the choice of MS GLOW FOR MEN products among teenagers.

Quantitative Analysis: Utilize SPSS to analyze data and establish the relationship between key variables in the skincare market.

Keywords: Shopping Lifestyle, Brand Ambassadors, Men's Body Care Products, Consumer Purchasing Decisions
Influence of Price Perception and Distribution Channels on Purchase Decisions: A Study on Small-Scale Tofu Enterprises
Authors: Chalimi Mohamad , Purwanto Nuri
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the impact of price perception and distribution channels on purchase decisions within the context of small-scale tofu enterprises. Employing a quantitative approach, the research population comprises 100 consumers, with a sample size of 85 who have made purchases. Utilizing simple random sampling, the findings reveal significant effects of both price perception and distribution channels on purchase decisions, shedding light on crucial factors that shape consumer choices in the realm of small-scale tofu enterprises.

Highlight:

Quantitative Investigation: This study employs a quantitative approach to explore the impact of price perception and distribution channels on purchase decisions in the context of small-scale tofu enterprises.

Consumer Sample: The research involves a sample of 85 consumers who have made purchases, providing insights into the decision-making process within this specific market segment.

Influential Factors: The findings underscore the significant effects of price perception and distribution channels, offering valuable insights into the factors that play a pivotal role in shaping consumer choices within small-scale tofu enterprises.

Keyword: Price Perception, Distribution Channels, Purchase Decisions, Small-Scale Tofu Enterprises, Consumer Choices
Effect of gases on crystallization of heat-resistant chromium steels
Authors: Marukovich E. I. , Stetsenko V. Y. , Stetsenko A. V.
Published: August 2023

It has been shown that the main influence on the crystallization of heat‑resistant chromium steels is hydrogen. It is a demodifying element of the casting structure. The mechanism of the influence of hydrogen on the crystallization of heat‑resistant chromium steels can be explained from the position of nanostructured crystallization of casting alloys. Dissolved hydrogen atoms, adsorbing on elementary nanocrystals of iron and chromium in melts of heat‑resistant chromium steels, prevent the combination of nanocrystals into nuclei of crystallization of α‑phase microcrystals. As a result, castings with an unmodified structure are obtained. Reduction of hydrogen concentration in melts of heat‑resistant chromium steels contributes to formation of modified structure in castings at their hardening.
Contribution of Social Capital in Strengthening Community-Based Education (CBE) in Madrasah
Authors: Choiri Moh. Miftachul , Sidiq Umar
Published: August 2023

This paper aims to describe and analyze the madrasahs’ activities in encouraging community-based education (CBE) reinforcement. The setting of this research was Madrasah Aliyah (MA) Nurul Mujtahidin Mlarak Ponorogo. This research employed a qualitative approach using a case study. Researchers used interviews, observation, and documentation to collect the data. The research data were validated through the triangulation technique. Moreover, the data were analyzed using the data analysis techniques of the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana models, including data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. This research shows some activities to realize community-based education (CBE) in Madrasah Aliyah Nurul Mujtahidin Mlarak Ponorogo. They help the students find foster parents or sponsors and equip them with skills needed to plunge into community life, such as embroidery and sewing skills, screen printing, motorcycle workshops, computer services, blacksmith and steel processing.
Interpretation of the Meaning of the Term Islam in Al-Manār Tafsir and Its Relationship to Inter-Religious and Inter-Cultural Relations
Authors: Saifullah Saifullah
Published: August 2023

This article examines the interpretations of “al-Islām” and its effects on inter-religious and intercultural relationships. It focuses on al-Manar's interpretation of the terms "al-Islām" in the Qur'an Ali Imran 19 and 85. The research method used is a qualitative content analysis and contextual approach to al-Qur’an interpretation. The findings show that interpreting "al-islām" in the al-Manār commentary differs from other tafsir works and emphasizes the importance of internal reflection and improvement for the Muslim community. The study highlights the complexity of Islam and its various interpretations and how it can affect relationships and attitudes towards different religious and cultural groups. The study provides a unique contribution to Islamic studies by exploring the interpretation of keywords in the Quran and its impact on inter-religious and intercultural relationships.
Epistemology of Nationalism in the Context of National Jurisprudence at the Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School
Authors: Faizin Khoirul , Mustamir Ahmad Khoirul
Published: August 2023

This study discusses the epistemological reasoning of nationalism and national fiqh at Islamic boarding schools, especially at the Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School, Kediri, East Java. Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School was chosen purposively as the research location. With a case study approach, this article reveals the epistemological reasoning of nationalism that occurs and develops in the research location. The results of the study show that there has been a shift in the epistemology of nationalism. This epistemological shift can be seen from the inconsistency of meaning and choice of action taken. From the theory of social transformation, certain social constructions will also affect specific cognitions or awareness—likewise, the epistemology of nationalism at the Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School. During the phase of the struggle against Dutch colonialism, nationalism was interpreted as a form of jihad against non-Muslims, along with the emergence of an awareness of establishing an Islamic state. However, since the establishment of Ma'had Aly Lirboyo, which has the peculiarities of nationalism, nationalism has shifted in meaning to become a form of awareness against radicalism movements born of Islamic Group, such as Hizb at-Tahrir Indonesia (HTI) and the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI). The assertion that the State of Indonesia is a state whose government is legitimate and opposing it is a prohibited action further confirms this shift in the epistemology of nationalism.
TEACHERS' PERCEPTION ON ONLINE LEARNING OF ENGLISH FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN THE POST COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Pamungkas Firdaus Ditya
Published: August 2023

A global pandemic caused by Coronavirus or Covid-19 gave horrible impacts toward many important sectors, including education. This global crisis including Indonesia, forced educational institutions to switch their teaching methods into online teaching and learning for around two and a half years. In the post Covid-19 pandemic, the education was back to normal where schools and university accepted students to learn in the classes. Therefore, the use of online learning that was important during Covid-19 pandemic, might be useful to give variation in learning process in the post Covid-19 pandemic. This study was conducted to explore teachers’ perception on online learning of EFL in the post Covid-19 pandemic. The participants were 21 EFL teachers from university and secondary school in Indonesia. This study used a qualitative descriptive approach with online questionnaire.  From the finding and result, it showed that teachers considered EFL online learning was still important because online learning provided flexible time in scope of teaching. Furthermore, the contents or materials of online learning could be saved on the internet for long time and could be seen or accessed again. In conclusion, EFL online still gave positive impact towards students and teachers in the post Covid-19 pandemic.Keyword: Post Covid-19 pandemic, EFL, perception, online learning
Textbook Analysis of "Grow with English Book 1"
Authors: Aulia Najla Nurul , Ambarwati Evi Karlina
Published: August 2023

Textbooks play an important role in teaching and learning. Hence, textbooks are required to meet the standard. The purpose of this study is to find out whether the book "Grow with English book 1" is appropriate to be used as teaching material. Content analysis was conducted by using the standard criteria from Badan Standar Nasional Pendidikan or National Education Standards Agency as well as the criteria of Cunningsworth (1995)'s theory. It was found the book met all the criteria, i.e. material, language, material presentation, and graphical aspects. It can be concluded that the book is suitable to be used in English classroom at elementary school level.
Halal Supply Chain on Food Products: Evidence From Wali Songo Islamic Boarding School, Ngabar Ponorogo
Authors: Iskandar Oky , Prasetiyo Luhur , Abdullah Umar
Published: August 2023

ntroduction: This article aims to describe halal supply chain management implementation at the Wali Songo Ngabar Islamic Boarding School. Halal supply chain management is essential to ensure the halalness of a product, including food products. Research Methods: This research was qualitative-field research. Data was obtained from the management of PT Ngabar Mandiri Sejahtera, boarding school caretakers, and consumers. The data were analyzed using the concept of halal supply chain management. Results: PT Ngabar Mandiri Sejahtera has carried out a halal supply chain management process. These processes are halal procurement, halal manufacturing, halal distribution, and halal logistics. Conclusion: PT Ngabar Mandiri Sejahtera has carried out the halal supply chain management process, although some processes have not been maximized. Some programs to maximize the implementation of halal supply chain management are socialization and educating producers on the importance of halal certification, and facilitating halal certification programs for producers.
Pengaruh Capital Adequacy Ratio dan Financing Deposite to Ratio Terhadap Return on Assets dengan Net Operating Margin Sebagai Variabel Intervening
Authors: Khasanah Siti Awaliyatun , Stiawan Drajat
Published: August 2023

Introduction: This study aims to determine the effect of CAR and FDR on ROA with NOM as an intervening variable in Islamic Commercial Banks for the 2017-2022 period. Research Methods: This study used quantitative research methods with a purposive sampling technique. This study used 48 research samples. The type of data used is secondary data in the form of annual financial reports of Islamic Commercial Banks for 2017-2022, which can be accessed via each bank’s website. Results: The results of this study indicate that (1) CAR has no significant effect on NOM while FDR has an effect on NOM, simultaneously CAR and FDR have an effect on NOM. (2) CAR has no significant effect on ROA while FDR and NOM have a significant effect on ROA, simultaneously CAR, FDR, and NOM have effect on ROA. (3) NOM is able to mediate the effect of CAR and FDR on ROA. Conclusion: This study concluded that independent variables have no significant effect on NOM and have a significant effect on ROA. This results can be adopted by the bank for creating the regulation on improving profitability
Model Pengembangan Kurikulum Atkinson di Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 3 Malang
Authors: Sahro Khoirus , Sutiah Sutiah
Published: August 2023

Artikel ini menjelaskan tentang penerapan model  evaluasi kurikulum atkinson di MAN 3 Malang. Setiap visi dan misi sekolah pasti bertujuan untuk kebaikan siswa sebagaimana cita-cita dan tujuan pendidikan nasional yang tercantum dalam UUD NRI 1945 dan UU Nomor 23 Tahun 2003 tentang Sistem Pendidikan Nasional. Pada dasarnya inti dari cita-cita dan tujuan nasional Indonesia sebagaimana dalam kedua peraturan tersebut ialah untuk membentuk insan yang intelektual, beriman kepada Tuhan, dan mempunyai perilaku yang baik. Namun berkembangnya kasus-kasus dewasa ini seperti penganiayaan, bullying, dan lain-lain yang dilakukan oleh para siswa menunjukkan bahwa visi dan misi sekolah tersebut dinyatakan tidak berhasil. Dengan demikian, maka sangat dibutuhkan evalusi kurikulum pendidikan untuk memperbaiki ke arah lebih baik. Adapun model evaluasi yang sangat tepat dalam hal ini ialah model evaluasi penddikan atkinson. Model evalusi ini memiliki objek penelitian yang fokus pada 3 domain, yakni problematika perencanaan sekolah, proses pembelajaran, dan perilaku atau karakter peserta didik.
Facing The Challenges of Youth Moral Degradation In The Digital Age
Authors: Muttaqin M. Imamul , Fasichullisan M. Imron , Afkari Najmi Nahdin , Sabella Salsa Amanda , Azzahro Siti Habibah , Sholikhah Siti Latifatus
Published: August 2023

In this digital era, technological developments are developing very rapidly. People find it very easy to get the things they like, so negative and positive effects appear. Seeing these developments can have negative impacts that are no less than positive ones. The generation that is vulnerable to negative influences is youth and results in moral degradation. This very rapid technological development can trigger loopholes to do things that harm other people and things that are criminal. This moral degradation is very difficult if you only rely on certain theories. In Islam there are teachings of aqidah morals which are expected to be able to provide solutions to the problem of moral degradation. This strategy can be in the form of an understanding of adolescents about moral beliefs and guidance in solving self-problems.
Rasionalitas Epistemik dalam Pendidikan Islam dengan Perspektif Historis untuk Membangun Moderasi Beragama di Indonesia
Authors: Aziz Aba Agil , Fuad Ah. Zakki , Mas'ud Ali , Asrofuddin Ulil Huda Imam Walid
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis study aims to describe the history of education in Islam to serve as the basis for its epistemic framework.  This study uses a literature study method with a qualitative approach.  The sources used are books, articles that are relevant to the history of Islamic religious education, besides that, literature on epistemic rationality and religious moderation is also collected.  How to obtain data in this study by reviewing the literature.  The data analysis uses the concept given by Miles and Huberman.  The results of this study are: 1) Historically the decline of Islamic education was due to the geopolitics of the destruction of the city of Baghdad so that the emergence of the western anti-colonial movement which resulted in radicalization to maintain power over religion.  2) Islamic education undergoes a transformation from the rationality of science through religious beliefs to the narrowing of knowledge and education in Islam for religious and political purposes.  3) Epistemic rationality is needed to revive Islamic education such as the golden age that uses rationality and empiricism in acquiring knowledge.  4) With an epistemic rationality approach based on the history of Islamic education, it can be used as an effort to form a moderate attitude in religion. AbstrakModerasi beragama kembali menjadi isu yang penting untuk dibahas, seiring dengan maraknya tindakan anarkis, radikalisme dan fanatisme mengatasnamakan agama yang dilakukan oleh oknum tertentu di waktu akhir ini. Oleh karena itu, perlu menilik sejarah pendidikan Islam pada masa keemasan untuk dijadikan pijakan kerangka epistemiknya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode studi kepustakaan dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Sumber yang digunakan adalah buku, artikel yang relevan dengan sejarah pendidikan agama islam selain itu dikumpulkan juga literatur-literatur rasionalitas epistemik dan moderasi beragama. Cara memperoleh data pada penelitian ini dengan telaah literature. Adapun analisis data menggunakan konsep yang diberikan oleh Miles dan Huberman. Hasil penelitian ini berupa : 1) Tercatat historis kemunduran pendidikan islam disebabkan geopolitik hancurnya kota baghdad sehingga munculnya gerakan anti kolonial barat yang dampaknya radikalisasi untuk mempertahankan kekuasaan dengan atas agama. 2) Pendidikan islam mengalami transformasi dari rasionalitas ilmu pengetahuan melalui keyakinan agama berubah menjadi mempersempitnya ilmu pengetahuan dan pendidikan dalam Islam untuk tujuan agama dan politiknya. 3) Rasionalitas epistemik diperlukan untuk membangkitkan kembali pendidikan islam seperti masa keemasan yang menggunakan rasionalitas dan empirik dalam memperoleh pengetahuan. 4) Dengan pendekatan rasionalitas epistemik berdasar sejarah pendidikan islam bisa digunakan sebagai upaya pembentukan sikap moderat dalam beragama.
Kenakalan Remaja Akibat Perceraian Orang Tua
Authors: Indriani Ananda Lusi
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan kenakalan remaja yang terjadi di Desa Bedrug beserta dengan langkah penanganan yang dilakukan oleh orang tua untuk menangani perilaku tersebut. Penelitian ini termasuk penelitian studi kasus dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Pendekatan kualitatif dipilih karena hakikat penelitian kualitatif yaitu mengamati individu dalam lingkungan, dengan melakukan interaksi, berusaha memahami bahasa dan tafsiran bahasa dari setiap individu, dengan orang yang berhubungan pada fokus penelitian. Penelitian kualitatif merupakan penelitian yang menghasilkan data secara relevan tanpa adanya manipulasi. Kenakalan remaja meliputi semua perilaku yang menyimpang dari norma-norma dalam masyarakat, pelanggaran status, maupun pelanggaran terhadap hukum pidana. Pelanggaran status seperti halnya kabur dari rumah, membolos sekolah, merokok, minum minuman keras, balap liar. Hasil penelitian menunjukkann kenakalan yang sering terjadi di daerah Pulung antara lain balapan liar, suka minum-minuman keras dan salah memilih pergaulan. Faktor terbesar yang mempengaruhi kenakalan remaja akibat perceraian adalah kurangnya perhatian dan kasih sayang dari orang tua dan keluarga terdekat. Upaya yang dilakukan orang tua dan keluarga untuk menangani kenakalan pada remaja akibat korban perceraian adalah dengan menasehati dengan memberikan kembali kasih sayang dan perhatian yang selama ini sudah tidak lagi mereka dapatkan.Kata Kunci : Kenakalan dan Remaja
Buildup Evaluation of a Tight Overpressured Naturally Fractured Carbonate Reservoir with the Use of a Semi-Empirical Model
Authors: Azuara Diliegros Brenda , Aguilera Roberto
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the buildup (BU) pressure response of a vertical well that penetrates an unconventional tight naturally fractured carbonate reservoir in Mexico. Four BUs in the same well over a period of 4 months, with intermediate flow periods, suggest partial closure of natural fractures. Radial flow is dominant in the four BUs. This is recognized in semilogarithmic and pressure derivative crossplots. However, the formulations require a consistent empirical component to match the BU data.

The four BU tests are evaluated with a semi-empirical dual porosity model with restricted interporosity flow. The restricted flow between matrix and fractures is the result of partial secondary mineralization (cementation) within the fractures, which can be visualized as a natural positive skin that reduces the oil flow from the matrix to the fractures. The empirical part of the method is provided by a severity exponent (SE), which helps improve the match between the BU semilog and derivative plots.

The BU evaluations permit estimating several parameters of interest, including fracture capacity (k2·h), skin, storativity ratio (ω), and the extrapolated pressure (p*). Results suggest that although natural fractures are present, they tend to close once the well goes on production. Thus, the conclusion is reached that the carbonate reservoir is tight and likely stress dependent. The calculated skin goes from an improved condition around the wellbore to slightly damaged conditions, probably due to fracture closure. The value of ω increases continuously, suggesting a tendency of the reservoir to move from dual to single porosity behavior. The reservoir is overpressured (0.87 psi/ft) and the extrapolated pressures (p*) decrease because of the tight characteristics of the reservoir. However, given the large size of the reservoir, the likelihood of depletion is low.

The novelty of this study is the development of a new easy-to-use semi-empirical well testing model for matching the BU pressure response of four tests performed in a well that penetrates an overpressured, unconventional, tight, naturally fractured carbonate reservoir. The tests could not be matched with conventional methods currently available in the literature.
Estimating Groundwater Recharge and Precipitation Sources of the Zamora River Basin, Southeastern Ecuador, by Using GIS and Stable Isotopes
Authors: Gualli Alexander , Galvão Paulo , Buenaño Mayra , Conicelli Bruno
Published: August 2023

The correct management of groundwater depends on information regarding the evolutionary processes of groundwater and the characterization of spatial variability of recharge mechanisms. GIS-based index models have become a reliable alternative for mapping and interpreting recharge models due to their adaptability and reliability in estimating recharge. Furthermore, stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen in water (δ2H and δ18O) help determine the origin and monitoring of water in the hydrological cycle. This paper aims to contribute to the knowledge of groundwater recharge by developing a conceptual recharge model using stable isotopes and estimating the recharge amount using a spatially distributed water balance model based on GIS for the Zamora River Basin (ZRB) in Ecuadorian Amazon. Due to the basin's size and geography, it was necessary to divide it into six precipitation blocks. The high precipitation rates resulted in high (18.22%) and moderate (30.93%) recharge zones across the basin. The analysis of stable isotopes in water indicates that precipitation water comes from the east, from the Amazon plain. In the valleys, precipitation enriched in δ18O suggests that it has undergone a recycling process in the basin; groundwater recharge comes from these precipitations. This analysis provides a simplified representation of reality that can assist in predicting the impacts of human activities on the basin.
The relationship between psychological distress and the nursing humanistic care demands in postoperative cancer inpatients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ma Fengyan , Zhu Yajing , Liu Yan , Liu Lu
Published: August 2023

Background
Psychological distress is receiving increasing clinical attention among cancer patients suffering from symptomatic distress. Humanistic care can improve patients' unpleasant psychological state, and identifying patient-centered reported nursing humanistic care demands is the basis for implementing humanistic care measures. However, there is no clinical research on the relationship between psychological distress and nursing humanistic care demands in cancer surgery patients.
Abstract
We aimed to investigate cancer patients' experiences of psychological distress after surgery and the factors that influence it, and to analyse the relationship between this and the nursing humanistic care demands.
Methods
This study used a convenience sampling method to survey 432 cancer patients undergoing surgical treatment in the specialized cancer hospital in Beijing. The survey used socio-demographic information, the Distress Management Screening Measures, and the Nursing Humanistic Care Demands questionnaire. Questionnaire Star was used to collect data online. SPSS24.0 software was used to test the relationship between psychological distress and nursing humanistic care demands.
Results
The mean scores for psychological distress and nursing humanistic care demands were 3.95 ± 2.71 and 147.02 ± 19.88, respectively, and showed a moderately positive correlation. The main issues that caused psychological distress in patients were: worry, financial problems, surroundings, nervousness, sleep, and pain. Regression analysis showed that gender, financial burden, personality type, and need for humanistic care in nursing explained 24.5% of the total variance in the model and were independent predictors of psychological distress.
Conclusion
Cancer inpatients have significant psychological distress after surgery and exhibit high levels of nursing humanistic care demands. Nursing humanistic care demands positively predicted psychological distress. Nursing staff should pay attention to the psychological suffering of patients and develop individualized care measures to alleviate their psychological suffering by accurately identifying their nursing humanistic care demands.
Comparison of Long-term Survival Outcomes of Breast Cancer in Situ Patients After Breast-Conserving Surgery with and without Radiotherapy: A Seer-based Analysis
Authors: Zhang Aijie , Zhang Heng , Wei Tingting , Huang Hongbo , Li Yunhai , Li Fan
Published: August 2023

Background: Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) has become the most common surgical treatment for BCIS patients in the United States.Radiation therapy (RT) is recommended routinely after BCS in early stage breast cancer because it can the reduce the risk of local recurrence. However, whether radiotherapy can improve survival in BCIS remains controversial.We aimed to determine a subgroups of BCIS patients who can safely avoid RT after BCS to provide reliable evidence for clinical decision-making.
Methods: Based on the SEER database, 38,829 BCIS patients who were undergone BCS between 1998 and 2019 were collected and were divided into RT group and non-RT group. Cox regression and competing risk regression were employed to estimate multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall survival (OS) and breast cancer–specific survival (BCSS). Subgroup analysis was performed to fifind the subgroups of people who might benefit from RT.
Result: Of 38,829 eligible patients, 30,556 patients were matched. After adjustment for confounders, no statistically significant survival difference was observed between the RT group and non-RT group. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that there were no significant OS (P=0.10), and BCSS (P=0.30) between RT groups and non-RT groups. After PSM, on multivariate cox regression analysis, RT did`t exert a significant influence on the OS (HR, 0.97; 95% CI [0.92, 1.03]，P=0.29) and BCSS (HR, 0.97; 95%CI [0.92, 1.03], P=0.38). Subgroup analysis results show that patients with DCIS (HR 0.92, CI [0.85, 0.99];P<0.05), poorly or worse differentiated histology(HR 0.90 , CI [0.83, 0.99];P<0.05) who received postoperative RT, achieved better OS. When the patients who tumor is larger than 5 cm (HR 0.15, CI[0.03, 0.81], P<0.05), receiving RT after BCS can obtain better BCSS.
Conclusion: Radiotherapy after BCS has no effect on OS or BCSS in BCIS, but radiotherapy is also recommended for people with BCIS with poorly differentiated tumor cells and BCIS tumors larger than 5 cm. Considering these potential side effects of radiotherapy, when recommending treatment for people with BCIS, we should deliberate the necessary for radiotherapy more carefully.
The analysis of continuous data from n-of-1 trials using paired cycles: a simple tutorial
Authors: Senn Stephen
Published: August 2023

N-of-1 trials are defined and the popular paired cycle design is introduced, together with an explanation as to how suitable sequences may be constructed.
Various approaches to analysing such trials are explained and illustrated using a simulated data set. It is explained how choosing an appropriate analysis depends on the question one wishes to answer. It is also shown that for a given question various equivalent approaches to analysis can be found, a fact which may be exploited to expand the possible software routines that may be used.
Sets of N-of-1 trials are analogous to sets of parallel group trials. This means that software for carrying out meta-analysis can be used to combine results from N-of-1 trials. In doing so, it is necessary to make one important change, however. Because degrees of freedom for estimating variances for individual subjects will be scarce, it is advisable to estimate local standard errors using pooled variances. How this may be done is explained and fixed and random effect approaches to combining results are illustrated.
Superfluid Polaritonic Qubit in an Annular Trap
Authors: Savvidis Pavlos , Petrosyan David , Paschos Giannis , Zhou Xiaoqing , Niu Meng , Tzortzakakis Andreas , Barrat Joris
Published: August 2023

We report on the experimental realization and characterization of an exciton-polariton qubit prototype. In our system, a
Bose-Einstein condensate of semiconductor exciton-polaritons is confined by a spatially-patterned pump laser in an annular
trap that supports energy-degenerate circulating currents of the polariton superfluid. Using non-invasive temporal interference
measurements, we observe coherent oscillations between a pair of counter-circulating superfluid vortex states of the polaritons
coupled by elastic scattering off the laser-imprinted potential. The qubit basis states correspond to the symmetric and
antisymmetric superpositions of the two vortex states forming orthogonal double-lobe spatial wavefunctions. By engineering
the potential, we tune the coupling and coherent oscillations between the two circulating current states, control the energies of
the qubit basis states and thereby initialize the qubit in the desired state. The dynamics of the system is accurately reproduced by our theoretical two-state model, and we discuss potential avenues to achieve complete control over our polaritonic qubit and implement controllable interactions and quantum gates between such qubits.
An online belief rule base breast cancer diagnosis method with interpretability
Authors: Han Wence , He Wei , Li Hongyu , Jiang Li , Mu Mengliang , Xing Li
Published: August 2023

Early diagnosis of breast cancer is critical for effective treatment. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has shown promise in assisting physicians with diagnosis. However, the combination of qualitative and quantitative information in surveillance data leads to ambiguity and uncertainty. Belief rule bases (BRB) can address these issues by incorporating confidence distributions. However, existing BRB models rely on offline training and lack adaptability to changes in patient metrics. In addition, the ethical implications of using BRB for breast cancer diagnosis require attention to the interpretability of the model. Therefore, this paper presents an online belief rule base breast cancer diagnosis method with interpretability. The method uses online learning to achieve dynamic growth. It also overcomes the problem of interpretability loss in the optimization process by implementing interpretability constraints. The proposed method achieves competitive accuracy and interpretability in breast cancer diagnosis, as demonstrated by experiments using a large dataset of breast cancer cases.
Development and validation of nomogram for predicting lymph node metastasis in early gastric cancer
Authors: He Jingyang , Cao Mengxuan , Li Enze , Hu Can , Zhang Yanqiang , Yu Pengcheng , Zhang Ruolan , Cheng Xiangdong , Xu Zhiyuan
Published: August 2023

Purpose:
To establish and verify a prediction model for lymph node metastasis (LNM) in early gastric cancer (EGC) and provide a reference for the selection of appropriate treatment for EGC patients.
Methods:
The clinicopathological data of 1584 patients with EGC admitted to Zhejiang Cancer Hospital from January 2010 to April 2019 were retrospectively analysed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the correlation between various clinicopathological factors and LNM in patients with EGC. Univariate K‒M and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to explore the influence of multiple clinical factors on the prognosis of patients with EGC. The discrimination and calibration of the established prediction model, which is presented in the form of a nomogram, were also evaluated.
Results:
The incidence of LNM was 19.6%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that tumour size, location, differentiation degree and pathological type were independent risk factors for LNM in EGC. Tumour pathological type and LNM were independent factors affecting the prognosis of patients with EGC. The area under the curve in the training and verification group was 0.750 (95% CI: 0.701 ~ 0.789) and 0.763 (95% CI: 0.687 ~ 0.838), respectively. The calibration curve showed good agreement between the predicted and actual probability, and decision curve analysis indicated strong clinical practicability.
Conclusion:
Tumour diameter ≥ 2 cm, poor differentiation degree, middle-lower tumour location and signet ring cell carcinoma were identified as independent risk factors for LNM in EGC. Among them, tumour pathological type and LNM were independent risk factors for prognosis in EGC. This clinical model for predicting LNM in EGC was used to construct a nomogram, which has high diagnostic value and can serve as a reference in clinical treatment selection.
PLANTdex: An index to assess the multi-dimensional environmental impact of global crop commodities
Authors: jwaideh Mark , Dalin Carole
Published: August 2023

This study presents the croP environmentaL sustAiNabiliTy index (PLANTdex), one of the first spatially explicit (5 arcmin resolution) indexes to measure environmental impacts caused by the production of sixteen crop commodities globally. PLANTdex comprises five globally standardized environmental impact intensity indicators developed from robust spatially-explicit environmental models related to climate change, water stress and terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity loss. Due to variations in PLANTdex, the index was able to differentiate production system efficiencies and environmental sensitivities, locating environmentally sustainable and unsustainable production globally. Due to PLANTdex's build, the index identified a more significant number of synergies (e.g., between biodiversity indicators) existed than trade-offs (e.g., between biodiversity-related GHG emissions and marine biodiversity loss) between indicators. The analysis identified over 32 regions that could collaborate on agricultural management strategies based on production, physical characteristics and environmental impact sensitivities that allow for the exchange of knowledge on sustainable agriculture. PLANTdex has the potential to support initiatives such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and E.S.G. strategies at the due diligence stage.
Analgesic effect of intraoperative intravenous S(+)-ketamine during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery: Study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial Analgesic effect of intraoperative intravenous S(+)-ketamine during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery
Authors: Deng Shi-Yuan , Chen Li-Na , Song Xiao , Guo Liang , Zhao Fei , Liu Jing , Dong Ling
Published: August 2023

Introduction:
Poor management of acute pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) increases the risk of complications in elderly patients. S(+)-ketamine in subanaesthetic doses is available as an adjuvant to the standard regimen of opioids, presenting prominent analgesic effects and opioid-sparing effects. Appropriate multimodal medication projects are required to decrease postoperative opioid use and improve effects in elderly patients undergoing TKA.
Methods
This is a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 144 participants aged ≥ 65 years old undergoing TKA will be randomly allocated into the S(+)-ketamine and placebo groups in a 1:1 ratio. S(+)-ketamine or placebo will be intravenously administered at 0.3 mg/kg/h during the operation by anesthesiologists. Blinded evaluation by trained investigators will be completed at 2 hours, 24 hours and 48 hours after surgery. The primary outcome measure is the numeric rating scale (NRS) score at rest and movement at 24 hours after surgery. The secondary outcomes include the NRS scores at rest and movement at 2 hours and 48 hours after surgery, the number of patients who require additional analgesics during the first 48 hours after operation, the total consumption of opioids or nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs during the first 48 hours after operation and adverse events at 2,24, 48 hours after operation.
Trial registration number:
NCT05289050
Examining Changes in Pain Interference via Pandemic-Induced Isolation Among Patients Receiving Medication for Opioid Use Disorder: A Secondary Data Analysis
Authors: Frohe Tessa , Janssen Tim , Garner Bryan R. , Becker Sara J.
Published: August 2023

• Background
Early in the pandemic, the United States population experienced a sharp rise in the prevalence rates of opioid use, social isolation, and pain interference. Given the high rates of pain reported by patients on medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), the pandemic presented a unique opportunity to disentangle the relationship between opioid use, pain, and social isolation in this high-risk population. We tested the hypothesis that pandemic-induced isolation would partially mediate change in pain interference levels experienced by patients on MOUD, even when controlling for baseline opioid use. Such work can inform the development of targeted interventions for a vulnerable, underserved population.
• Methods
Analyses used data from a cluster randomized trial (N = 188) of patients on MOUD across eight opioid treatment programs. As part of the parent trial, participants provided pre-pandemic data on pain interference, opioid use, and socio-demographic variables. Research staff re-contacted participants between May and June 2020 and 133 participants (71% response rate) consented to complete a supplemental survey that assessed pandemic-induced isolation. Participants then completed a follow-up interview during the pandemic that again assessed pain interference and opioid use. A path model assessed whether pre-pandemic pain interference had an indirect effect on pain interference during the pandemic via pandemic-induced isolation.
• Results
Consistent with hypotheses, we found evidence that pandemic-induced isolation partially mediated change in pain interference levels among MOUD patients during the pandemic. Higher levels of pre-pandemic pain interference and opioid use were both significantly associated with higher levels of pandemic-induced isolation. In addition, pre-pandemic pain interference was significantly related to levels of pain interference during the pandemic, and these pain levels were partially explained by the level of pandemic-induced isolation reported.
• Conclusions
Patients on MOUD with higher use of opioids and higher rates of pain pre-pandemic were more likely to report feeling isolated during COVID-related social distancing and this, in turn, partially explained changes in levels of pain interference. These results highlight social isolation as a key risk factor for patients on MOUD and suggest that interventions promoting social connection could be associated with reduced pain interference, which in turn could improve patient quality of life.
Trial registration:
NCT03931174
Can seaweed extracts from different seasons exhibit differential plant biostimulant properties?
Authors: Santos Janaína Pires , Torres Priscila , Amorim Ana Maria , Silva Beatriz Nogueira Torrano da , Santos Deborah Yara Alves Cursino dos , Chow Fungyi
Published: August 2023

A wide variety of commercial seaweed-based biostimulants is available worldwide for improving plant growth and development for agriculture and gardening purposes. Biostimulant properties are influenced by species, seasonality, preparation methods, and harvest site. This study evaluated the biostimulant properties of the methanolic, hot aqueous and aqueous extracts of three Brazilian macroalgae - Sargassum vulgare C.Agardh (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae), Palisada flagellifera (J.Agardh) K.W.Nam (Rhodophyta), and Ulva fasciata Delile (Chlorophyta) - in two different periods (dry and wet seasons) on germination and early development of Lactuca sativa Linnaeus. All three algae increase the total length of lettuce seedlings, with the root length being the primary factor that exhibited growth enhancement. The length of the roots increased by an average of 40% when in contact with the extracts, ranging from 28–55% for P. flagellifera, 37–48% for S. vulgare, and 28–79% for U. fasciata. The extracts promoted resource allocation for elongation of roots, which can aid the plant survival by improving competition for water and nutrients. In general, the biostimulant properties of seaweed extracts varied between harvesting period, since the activity of methanolic and aqueous extracts were influenced by the seasons. Methanolic extracts from the dry season and aqueous extracts from the wet season showed the most biostimulant effect, although overall, the dry season extracts were the most effective. In conclusion, the studied extracts of three Brazilian macroalgae have significant biostimulant properties, which can vary depending on the harvesting period and extract type.