bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“COVID-19 and the New Hidden Curriculum of Moral Injury and Compassion Fatigue”
Authors: Joshi Ishani , Zemel Rachel
Published: May 2024

Medical students are educated through two dichotomous curriculums, the formal, planned curriculum and the hidden curriculum unintentionally taught through socialization within the culture of medicine. As a consequence of shared trauma amongst the physician workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic, moral injury (MoI) and compassion fatigue (CoF) have become prevalent within the health care system, including palliative care medicine, with echoing ramifications on the observing trainee population. Thus, it is imperative to determine risk factors, protective factors and targeted interventions to offset MoI and CoF within the health care workforce and trainee population. Methods of strengthening personal and institutional resilience are vital to developing long-term structural change replacing the hidden curriculum of MoI and CoF with one of resilience and support. As palliative care providers are especially vulnerable to MoI and CoF, this article will examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on MoI, CoF, and resilience within the hidden curriculum through the lens of palliative care.
Optimal parameter estimation for uncertain structural systems under unknown random excitations
Authors: Ying Zu-Guang , Ni Yi-Qing
Published: May 2024

An optimal parameter estimation method for uncertain structural systems under unknown random excitations is proposed, which combines the Bayesian inference and stochastic dynamics using geometrically averaged likelihood and optimal response estimation. The general description of optimal parameter estimation problems for uncertain dynamic systems under only stochastic responses measured is presented. The posterior probability density conditional on measured responses is expressed by the likelihood function conditional on system parameters based on Bayes’ theorem. For finite time processes, the parameter estimation problem as the probability integral of conditional means is converted into the optimization problem expressed as maximizing the posterior probability density. A geometrically averaged likelihood function is defined and used for calculating the logarithmic posterior probability density. This estimation can avoid the numerical singularity of the likelihood function and reduce the effects of incomplete posterior probability density and inaccurate prior statistics of unknown random excitations, and then it will be more reasonable and effective. Furthermore, the differential equations for system response means and covariances are derived and solved based on stochastic dynamics theory. The means and covariances conditional on responses at the present instant are expressed by the previous statistics based on optimal response estimation. By combining two results, the analytical expressions of the averaged likelihood function and logarithmic posterior probability density are obtained which will be more reliable and accurate. The proposed optimal estimation method is verified by numerical results for a five-storey frame structure under base random excitation. The estimated results are not affected by the prior statistics errors of random excitation as a factor. For noisy observation, the Kalman filtering is incorporated in the estimation method and hence the estimation is more accurate and robust even for low signal noise ratios. The optimal estimation method has the potential for application to general uncertain systems.
Analytical solution for forced vibration response of rectangular thin plates attached by straight and curved acoustic black hole beams based on symplectic and impedance method
Authors: Ding Liangzhu , Zhang Sen , Wu Xinwei , Ma Yongbin , Deng Zichen
Published: May 2024

In recent years, due to the excellent vibration reduction performance of the acoustic black hole (ABH), its application in engineering has become increasingly widespread. This paper proposes an analytical method which combines the symplectic method with the impedance method, for solving the forced response of the rectangular thin plates attached by the straight and curved ABH beams. The ABH beams and plate are connected by a short bar. Firstly, the impedance method is used to obtain the dynamic stiffness of the coupling end of the ABH beam. Secondly, the symplectic method is used to obtain analytical waves of the plates. By utilizing the relationship between force and displacement at plate-beam junction, the dynamic stiffness of the plate at the coupling point can be obtained. Finally, based on wave propagation analysis, the forced vibration response of the hybrid system are obtained. The numerical examples compared the calculation results of this method with the finite element method. The results show that the proposed method can effectively predict the forced response of the hybrid system considered in this paper. Then, the influence of the relative position between the coupling point and the excitation point on the vibration reduction effect was analyzed. This method is analytical, with accurate results and high computational efficiency.
Enrichment of vegan gluten-free pasta with basil seeds: Cooking quality, nutritional and antioxidant properties
Authors: B Neeharika , K G Vijayalaxmi , D Shobha
Published: May 2024

The germinated clove basil ( Ocimum gratissimum) and sweet basil ( Ocimum basilicum) seeds being a potent source of dietary fibre, minerals and antioxidants are utilized as functional ingredients for the enrichment of gluten-free pasta. The germinated clove basil seed and sweet basil seed incorporated pastas with acceptable sensory scores were developed by substituting 30% and 15% of gluten-free flour respectively. Basil seed pastas exhibited lesser cooking time (7–8 min), cooking loss (6%) and similar texture as that of control. The clove basil seed pasta exhibited better cooking quality, nutritional and antioxidant properties than the sweet basil seed pasta due to higher level of basil seed flour substitution. Consumption of one serving of clove basil seed pasta (75 g) could meet the dietary fibre (49%, 58%), protein (15%, 17%), magnesium (18%, 21%), phosphorus (22%, 22%), manganese (28%, 28%) and copper (28%, 28%) daily requirements of sedentary adult men and women, respectively.
Enhancing Physical Activity Recommendations to Support Cognition in Homecare: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Edwards Brydne , Perera Emma , King Emily C. , McKay Sandra M. , Ruco Arlinda
Published: May 2024

Background: Physical activity is a safe, evidence-based self-management strategy for older adults (aged 65+) with cognitive impairment. Although homecare occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs) are well positioned to support the growing number of older adults living at home with cognitive impairment, physical activity is rarely recommended as a strategy to manage cognition. Objective: To increase OTs’ and PTs’ knowledge of physical activity recommendations, as well as increase the range of physical activity recommendations for older adults living at home with cognitive impairment. Methods: This quality improvement project used a pre-post intervention approach. Data was collected through a pre-post clinician survey and pre-post chart audit to evaluate the impact of a multimodal education intervention on OT and PT knowledge and practice. The intervention included educational sessions and the development of four client handouts. Results: Post-intervention, OT and PT survey results showed a non-significant improvement in knowledge, and a greater range of physical activity recommendations. The PT chart audit demonstrated a statistically significant increase in PTs providing education about the role of physical activity in relation to cognitive impairment. For OTs, there was a non-significant increase in physical activity recommendations. Conclusions: This multimodal education resulted in non-significant improvements in knowledge for OTs and PTs, however there were significant practice changes for PTs when providing education to patients about the impact of physical activity on cognition. Future research could refine the targeting of this intervention to better meet the needs of OTs and incorporate an evaluation of patient outcomes.
New municipalism and feminist leadership after the Indignados: The political aesthetics of truth inAda Colau for Mayor(Faus 2016)
Authors: Ungureanu Camil
Published: May 2024

In this article, I reflect on the intersection between feminism and documentary art as truth-telling by focusing on Alcaldessa ( Ada Colau for Mayor), the most relevant documentary of the long-term collaboration between the film-maker Pau Faus and Ada Colau, the first female mayor of Barcelona (2015–2023). My argument is critical of a reductionist interpretation which portrays Alcaldessa as a personalist postfeminist documentary overly fixated on ‘biography rather than policy’. In contrast, I posit that Faus’ documentary, delving into Colau’s initial electoral campaign (2014–2015), offers valuable insights into pivotal aspects of an underexamined political vision that merges the principles of new municipalism with a focus on the ‘common people’ ( gent comú) and feminism. Furthermore, the documentary sheds light on unreconciled dilemmas inherent in the lived new politics and feminist leadership, issues that often remain concealed within the ideological trappings of political manifestos and programmes.
‘It’s a difficult situation to be an asylum seeker in the UK. It’s not easy at all’: An exploration of the social and psychological impact of seeking asylum in Wales
Authors: Wells Mike , Glennan Clare Elmi , Seage Catherine Heidi
Published: May 2024

Wales has been committed to receiving asylum seekers and resettling refugees in towns and cities, and these numbers are increasing on a yearly basis. However, many people seeking asylum feel disempowered by the disabling policies of the Home Office, leading to social and economic hardship for this population. This qualitative study aimed to capture the voices of this under-served group through in-depth, semi structured interviews to gain contextual understanding of the social and psychological challenges experienced by people seeking asylum in Wales. The findings suggest that many asylum seekers and refugees relied on their social support networks to compensate for the limited welfare offered to them by the asylum system. Changes to the asylum process and policies are needed for Wales to achieve its goal of ensuring that people seeking asylum are supported to rebuild their lives and make a full contribution to the Welsh society.
An integrated material-structural analysis of prestress concrete affected by corrosion of non-prestressed reinforcement
Authors: Sun Xiaojie , Gong Fuyuan , Zhao Yuxi , Zeng Bin , Maekawa Koichi
Published: May 2024

Corrosion-induced concrete cracking is a significant stage of structural deterioration in prestressed concrete (PC) structures. Most current research predominantly focuses on the corrosion of prestressed steel strands, while paying limited attention to the study of non-prestressed reinforcement corrosion. In this study, an integrated material-structural numerical approach was developed to simulate corroded PC beams, considering corrosion products migration in pores and cracks. The cracking patterns and prestress losses obtained from the simulation results agreed well with experimental observations. Subsequently, using the proposed numerical approach, the interaction mechanism of the prestress level and reinforcement corrosion was investigated. The simulation results indicated that corrosion of longitudinal reinforcement leads to cross-sectional damage, causing the redistribution of stress across the section and increasing long-term deformation, ultimately resulting in prestress losses. Meanwhile, stirrup corrosion leads to an initial increase in prestress due to expansion forces when the degree of corrosion is not so high, but finally it will also lead to a degradation of mechanical performance.
Nonlinear dynamic characteristics of mechatronics integrated planetary gears considering wear and temperature effects
Authors: Wang Jungang , Bi Xincheng , Mo Ruina , Ren Jiwen , Yi Yong
Published: May 2024

The electromechanical planetary gear system has high work efficiency and long service life, but factors such as heat, wear, and electrical signals can affect the transmission performance of electromechanical planetary gears. This article comprehensively considers factors such as temperature, tooth surface wear, lubrication, current and voltage, damping ratio, etc. Based on the principle of thermal deformation, Archard wear model, and equivalent circuit principle, a dynamic model of electromechanical planetary gears is established. The existing literature has not comprehensively analyzed the effects of temperature, wear, and electrical signal changes on the nonlinear characteristics of electromechanical planetary gear systems. The results show that when the motor current is between 7 A and 18 A and the voltage is lower than the rated voltage, the system is in a stable state; as the temperature rises, the system tends to stabilize; the gear wear exceeds 30 μm, and the bifurcation characteristics of the system are more pronounced.
Qualitative research in the metaverse, a primer
Authors: Adams Julian P
Published: May 2024

New technology can be a source of great optimism and a force for positive change in the research industry. As such, it is important to discuss the merits of emerging technology. In this research note, the emergent opportunity for qualitative research in the metaverse is discussed. This paper looks at how rich sensory virtual environments with multiple sensory modalities might help address some of the shortcomings of traditional online qualitative research. The importance of establishing social presence in virtual qualitative research is addressed. Then, how the metaverse might help remove some of the constraints of ‘big qual’ is debated. The potential for the metaverse to improve participant inclusivity is considered, before finally discussing the issue of research ethics in a decentralised virtual world.
Knowledge and Needs of Theology Students on Voice and Vocal Hygiene at a South African Institution of Higher Education
Authors: Maasz Johan J. , van der Riet Sonika , Henriët Marinique , Britz Leanet , du Toit Maria N. , Graham Marien A. , van der Linde Jeannie
Published: May 2024

Preachers are professional voice users (PVUs) who regularly experience high vocal demands, often leading to vocal difficulties or disorders. Research has established that this often occurs due to a lack of sufficient knowledge of the vocal mechanism and vocal hygiene in this population. Student preachers are therefore also considered to be a potential at-risk group for the development of vocal difficulties once they enter the occupation. This study therefore aimed to determine the knowledge and needs of theology students at a South African institution of higher education regarding voice production and vocal hygiene. A cross-sectional online survey using non-probability purposive and convenience sampling was distributed to participants through email to obtain data on the education, training, needs, and knowledge of voice production, vocal hygiene, and voice use among the participants. A clear need was observed for education and training on vocal health and hygiene amongst the study population. The participants presented with limited knowledge about voice production and vocal hygiene; however, they also reported to not regularly implement this limited knowledge in day-to-day voice use or practice. This study found a willingness among participants to learn more about voice and vocal hygiene. This study confirmed that theology students, as future PVUs, receive minimal-to-no training on voice and vocal hygiene, despite their increased risk for voice difficulties.
A Phenomenological Qualitative Exploration of Mind-Body Therapy Use and Effectiveness Among Young, Middle, and Older Adult Cancer Survivors
Authors: Singh Sarthak , Nguyen Tina , Deleemans Julie , Oberoi Devesh , Piedalue Katherine-Ann , Carlson Linda E.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Having been diagnosed with and treated for cancer can have negative psychosocial repercussions that may differ across the lifespan. Mind-body therapies (MBTs), such as tai-chi/qigong (TCQ) or mindfulness-based cancer recovery (MBCR), have shown promise in decreasing negative psychosocial outcomes in cancer survivors, but few studies have explored potential differences in MBT use and effectiveness across age groups.

Methods:

A descriptive phenomenological qualitative design was used. Participants included young (18-39), middle (40-64), and older (65+) adult cancer survivors who were diagnosed with any type of cancer and had participated in Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery (MBCR) or Tai Chi/Qigong (TCQ) MBTs. Semi-structured qualitative interviews explored participants’ experiences in MBTs and these were analyzed using descriptive phenomenological analysis.

Results:

Among the interviews (n = 18), young (n = 6), middle-aged (n = 8), and older (n = 4) adults participated. 5 themes emerged: influences in joining the program, unique lifestyles, positive class experiences, use of media, and program impacts. Though all age groups benefitted from MBT participation, variations between age groups with respect to the benefits received and motivations for joining the program were observed.

Discussion:

MBTs had beneficial physical and mental health effects on survivors of all age groups. These benefits were particularly connected to the ongoing life stresses common to each age cohort, such as relief from work and family roles for young adults or support during retirement transition for older adults. Hence, access to MBT programs may be beneficial as part of the survivorship plan for patients and the recruitment strategies or content can be adapted by MBT providers to better target and support age-specific groups. More research is required with a larger sample.
Clinical Colleague and Clinical Academic: A Physician’s Autoethnographical Reflexive Account of Opportunities and Challenges as an ‘Insider’ Researcher
Authors: Warner Bronwen Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

‘Insider’ positionality, where the researcher shares a context with those researched, has been considered in many settings but infrequently by physicians. In this reflexive autoethnographic account, a physician undertaking qualitative methods research exploring shared decision-making in the acute hospital setting describes and critically appraises her experience of studying physician colleagues. She considers each step of the research in turn with reference to her insider positionality which she came to realise was neither absolute nor fixed. Professional experience informed a clinically relevant line of inquiry while the sometimes uncomfortable transition between physician and researcher prompted reflection which added depth to the research question. Being an insider was beneficial in accessing potential participants, but the extent to which the ‘ethnographic toolkit’ of the physician-colleague social position defined recruitment success is discussed. Data collection during semi-structured interviews benefitted from a shared clinical language although this needed to be balanced with avoiding assumptions of shared meaning. There was heightened researcher consciousness of peer scrutiny on questioning the status quo and of workplace hierarchy when interviewing senior colleague ‘elites’. A sense of responsibility to colleagues and tendency to draw on personal clinical experience to make sense of an elusive thematic analysis became apparent during the analysis. The research experience ultimately led to increased confidence with inhabiting a role neither truly insider nor outsider. This critical account contributes to methodological understanding of reflexivity by physician qualitative researchers and seeks to benefit others embarking on a similar journey.
Simplified robust two-step model predictive control for permanent magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Zhang Chen , Cen Chen
Published: May 2024

Traditional finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) selects an optimal voltage vector in one control cycle. However, considering multiple control cycles, it cannot be proved that the voltage vector is optimal, and the uncertainty of PMSM parameters seriously affects the prediction accuracy. In order to balance the relationship between switching frequency, steady-state performance, and robustness, a multi-step robust FCS-MPC is proposed. Firstly, an incremental prediction model is established to eliminate the flux linkage of permanent magnets. The inductance parameters in the incremental model are identified online based on the observer and inductance extraction algorithm. Then, based on the principle of no-beat, the candidate voltage vector in two control periods is simplified to get the candidate voltage vector, and the cost function is used to determine the optimal voltage vector again. Finally, the proposed FCS-MPC method is compared with the traditional FCS-MPC method. The experimental results show the effectiveness of FCS-MPC strategy.
Vibro-acoustic coupling analysis of dynamic performance of the double panel system with mechanical links
Authors: Zhang Yufei , Lyu Shuyu , Wang Shenghai , Chen Haiquan
Published: May 2024

The theoretical prediction model for the dynamic performance of a double panel system that takes into account the effect of mechanical links is developed in this paper. The double panel system is established considering both the vibro-acoustic coupling and the effect of the mechanical links between two flexible panels. Firstly, the modal characteristics of the double panel system are analyzed and compared with the results calculated by the finite element method. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed model have been validated. Subsequently, the forced response of the double panel system under different external excitations is studied. It is shown that the mechanical link resulted in less response level of the double panel system in in low frequency range due to the structural path in the energy transmission of the double panel system. Finally, the effect of the mechanical link parameters on the dynamic performance of the double panel system is discussed. The results reveal that the stiffness coefficients, location distributions, and number of mechanical links can significantly influence the dynamic behavior of the double panel system. Therefore, the theoretical model can be used in optimization techniques to improve the sound transmission characteristics of the double panel system.
Biopolitics in Rebel-Controlled Myanmar: Exploring Why the United League of Arakan Supports the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone
Authors: Chu Ta-Wei , Jonathan Saw , Lynn Kyaw
Published: May 2024

In this article, we explore why the Myanmar-based insurgency organisation known as the United League of Arakan (ULA) supports the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (KSEZ): a controversial Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project. We argue that the ULA's support for the KSEZ is rooted in a biopolitics that benefits the ULA by attractively showcasing its insurgent aims and by effectively boosting its local authority. The ULA's pro-KSEZ policy partially explains why the KSEZ, unlike other BRI projects in junta-led Myanmar, has enjoyed moderate success. Despite its biopolitical benefits, the ULA's pro-KSEZ policy has marginalised certain anti-KSEZ actors in the rebel organisation's sphere of control. The resulting fragmentation may both destabilise the ULA's hard-fought social order and undermine the prospects of the KSEZ. Our examination of the ULA–KSEZ relationship empirically contributes to BRI-in-Myanmar research, which has heretofore paid little attention to rebel-controlled societies’ significant influence on foreign-led domestic development projects.
Building Trustworthy Generative Artificial Intelligence for Diabetes Care and Limb Preservation: A Medical Knowledge Extraction Case
Authors: Mashatian Shayan , Armstrong David G. , Ritter Aaron , Robbins Jeffery , Aziz Shereen , Alenabi Ilia , Huo Michelle , Anand Taneeka , Tavakolian Kouhyar
Published: May 2024

Background:

Large language models (LLMs) offer significant potential in medical information extraction but carry risks of generating incorrect information. This study aims to develop and validate a retriever-augmented generation (RAG) model that provides accurate medical knowledge about diabetes and diabetic foot care to laypersons with an eighth-grade literacy level. Improving health literacy through patient education is paramount to addressing the problem of limb loss in the diabetic population. In addition to affecting patient well-being through improved outcomes, improved physician well-being is an important outcome of a self-management model for patient health education.

Methods:

We used an RAG architecture and built a question-and-answer artificial intelligence (AI) model to extract knowledge in response to questions pertaining to diabetes and diabetic foot care. We utilized GPT-4 by OpenAI, with Pinecone as a vector database. The NIH National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education served as the basis for our knowledge base. The model’s outputs were validated through expert review against established guidelines and literature. Fifty-eight keywords were used to select 295 articles and the model was tested against 175 questions across topics.

Results:

The study demonstrated that with appropriate content volume and few-shot learning prompts, the RAG model achieved 98% accuracy, confirming its capability to offer user-friendly and comprehensible medical information.

Conclusion:

The RAG model represents a promising tool for delivering reliable medical knowledge to the public which can be used for self-education and self-management for diabetes, highlighting the importance of content validation and innovative prompt engineering in AI applications.
Dorsalis pedis cannulation: An overlooked option—A case report
Authors: Asghar Ali , Salim Bushra , Khan Muhammad Hassan
Published: May 2024

Radial artery is mostly used for arterial cannulation because of its location, collateral circulation, and less complications. Dorsalis pedis artery can be an alternative for arterial cannulation in difficult radial or brachial arteries cannulation situations as it is mostly overlooked. We present a case of a 45-year-old female planned for supratentorial craniotomy for excision of meningioma. After induction of anesthesia, the invasive access couldn’t be attained after multiple attempts under ultrasound guidance by five senior anesthesiologists. The surgery was abandoned, and the patient awakened. The case was rescheduled after 2 days. The new anesthesia team attained the arterial access in the right dorsalis pedis artery and the central venous access in the right internal jugular vein in the first attempt. No complications were noted post-operatively. The dorsalis pedis artery can be safely used for arterial cannulation when radial artery cannulation is not possible.
Developing a digital mind body medicine supportive care intervention for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using stakeholder engagement and design thinking
Authors: Canella Claudia , Braun Carina , Witt Claudia M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease (ALS) is also called the disease of a thousand farewells. Consequently, it is important to offer supportive care interventions that can be applied continuously during the whole course of the disease. People with ALS are interested in complementary and integrative medicine. Due to ALS’ progressive nature, digital solutions might be most feasible and accessible for people with ALS in the long-term.

Objectives

In our study, we explored with stakeholders which digital complementary and integrative medicine interventions and formats are considered as supportive for people with ALS, and which settings are needed by the people with ALS to incorporate the interventions in everyday life.

Methods

We used a participatory research approach and conducted a stakeholder engagement process, applying a design thinking process with qualitative research methods (interviews, workshops).

Results

Due to the unpredictable course of the disease on their loss of abilities, people with ALS welcome online settings because they are accessible and easy to implement in their daily life. Stakeholders considered the following implementation factors for a complementary and integrative medicine intervention as essential: short-term realization of planned interventions, short duration of interventions, and user-friendliness in terms of accessibility and applicability. Concerning the complementary and integrative medicine interventions, the people with ALS preferred mind body medicine interventions, such as breathing, mindfulness and relaxation exercises.

Conclusions

Short-term treatment intervals and short online mind body medicine interventions align with the needs of people with ALS. The complementary and integrative medicine interventions as well as the digital infrastructure must meet the special accessibility and applicability needs of people with ALS.
Winning hearts in Southeast Asia? News sentiment on China amidst the US–PRC trade war
Authors: Panao Rogelio Alicor Labalan
Published: May 2024

How did the trade rivalry between the United States and China impact China's foreign public image in the ASEAN press? In the context of Southeast Asia's mixed attitude toward China, this article argues that the trade war between China and the United States heightened negative sentiment on China, especially in states grappling with the latter as a security threat, but whose investment climate has been slower to respond to the restructuring of the global supply chain. Drawing from econometric analyses of news sentiment mined from a corpus of 75,619 online English news articles in all 10 Southeast Asian countries from January 2016 to March 2020, we find that the trade war induced negative news sentiment on China in the ASEAN press. However, foreign visits to and from China appear to have been favorably regarded and helped boost China's image in the region. The findings remind that there may be a need for China to rethink its carrot-and-stick strategy to win the hearts and minds of its ASEAN neighbors.
Mapping Salience and Trajectory: On How to Situate Literary Translators in Publishing Legends of the Condor Heroes With Visualization
Authors: Ni Xiaodi , Yang Lijun
Published: May 2024

As a publishing success, Legends of the Condor Heroes ( Legends) dispelled the belief that Jin Yong’s works are untranslatable, necessitating fresh scholarly attention. With a mixed-methods approach, this article investigates literary translators’ positioning in publishing network based on empirical data from paratexts, online sources and existing research of Legends through Actor-Network Theory (ANT)-inspired ethnography. It represents these data with visualized networks using Gephi, and conducts social network analysis (SNA) and qualitative analysis with various graphic metrics. It is illustrated that the three translators Anna Holmwood, Gigi Chang and Shelly Bryant and the publisher MacLehose Press serve as the focal actors with considerable connections with other actors in the publishing network. With further exploration of the connections, we find it is the multiple identities of these translators and the publishing strategy of the publisher that help shape their relative high centrality and visibility, which may also be one of the reasons for the success of Legends. This article hopes to complement the mainstream study on translator’s positioning and facilitate the conjunction of Translation Studies and publishing research, with rarely used but helpful techniques from graph theory and social network analysis.
How Money Scarcity Influences Individuals’ Cognitive Control
Authors: Wang Qiangqiang , Liu Shengmin , Wang Feng , Shi Wendian
Published: May 2024

Previous studies have confirmed that money scarcity can impede individuals’ cognitive control; however, it remains unclear how this effect occurs. This study created a virtual shopping game that can vividly simulate individuals’ shopping-related thought processes in daily life to systematically investigate how money scarcity influences cognitive control. Participants were randomly assigned to either a money scarcity group or a money rich group and were asked to perform a virtual shopping game, an emotion test, and a cognitive control task. In the first two experiments, the participants were asked to perform a space compatibility task (Experiment 1) or a face task (Experiment 2) after completing the virtual shopping task, in which they indicated whether they would purchase the probe commodity. The results showed that (1) the response times of the money scarcity group in both the space compatibility task and the face task were markedly lower than those of the money rich group, and (2) the cognitive flexibility and interference suppression of the money rich group were greater than those of the money scarcity group; however, there was no obvious difference in response inhibition. Experiment 3 embedded the space compatibility task within the virtual shopping task. The response times of the money scarcity group were still markedly slower than those of the money rich group. Thus, money scarcity impedes individuals’ cognitive control, primarily by weakening their cognitive flexibility and interference suppression.
Effectiveness of a Preoperative Bowel Preparation Protocol for Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis to Decrease Postoperative Gastrointestinal Morbidities and the Hospital Length of Stay
Authors: Abdulmajeed Alzakri
Published: May 2024

Study Design

Randomised controlled trial.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a preoperative bowel preparation protocol comprising bisacodyl to minimize postoperative gastrointestinal morbidities and the hospital length of stay for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Summary of Background Data

Patients who undergo scoliosis correction surgery frequently experience postoperative gastrointestinal morbidities and a prolonged hospital length of stay. Emesis, paralytic ileus and constipation are the most common gastrointestinal morbidities. Opioid medication is a well-known risk factor for gastrointestinal complications after scoliosis correction surgery.

Methods

Eighty-seven patients (22 boys [25.3%] and 65 girls [74.7%]) with a mean age of 17.7 years (standard deviation [SD], ±2.2 years) diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were enrolled in this study and randomized into 2 groups. Group A comprised 44 patients who received a preoperative bowel preparation comprising bisacodyl. Group B comprised 43 patients who did not receive any preoperative medication. Demographic data, height, weight, medical and surgical comorbidities, Risser status, number of instrumented levels and preoperative opioid consumption of all patients were evaluated.

Results

Group A experienced fewer postoperative abdominal symptoms than group B. The mean hospital length of stay was 4.1 days (SD, ±.6 days; median, 4 days; range, 3-5 days) for group A; however, it was 5.3 days (SD, ±.8 days; median, 5 days; range, 4-7 days) for group B ( P = .01).

Conclusion

The use of a bowel preparation protocol before scoliosis correction surgery for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis can effectively decrease postoperative gastrointestinal morbidities and the hospital length of stay.
Evaluation of Anterior Tibial Translation Under Physiological Axial Load After ACL Reconstruction With Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis
Authors: Pineda Tomas , Cance Nicolas , Dan Michael J. , Demey Guillaume , Dejour David H.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Postoperative laxity correlates with negative clinical outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The influence of lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) on anteroposterior translation is unclear.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

This study aimed to evaluate the reduction in radiographic static anterior tibial translation (SATT) and dynamic anterior tibial translation (DATT) after LET as an adjunctive procedure to ACLR. It was hypothesized that adding a LET procedure would have no effect on postoperative SATT and DATT.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients who underwent primary ACLR with hamstring tendon autografts between 2020 and 2022 were reviewed, and those who underwent ACLR and LET as an anterolateral associate procedure were paired 1 to 1 with those who underwent isolated ACLR (control) based on age, sex, preoperative SATT, and posterior tibial slope (PTS). The indications for LET were age <18 years and anterolateral rotary instability (grade ≥2 pivot shift). A previously validated technique was used to measure SATT, DATT, and PTS on lateral weightbearing and lateral stress knee radiographs. Preoperative and 9-month postoperative radiographs were compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

A total of 72 patients were included in the analysis (n = 36 patients in each group). The inter- and intraobserver reliability of the SATT, DATT, and PTS measurements was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficients, 0.88-0.99). The mean pre- and postoperative SATT in the ACLR+LET group was 2.44 ± 2.90 mm and 2.44 ± 2.38 mm, respectively, compared with 2.60 ± 2.99 mm and 2.12 ± 2.74 mm, respectively, in the control group. The mean pre- and postoperative reduction in side-to-side DATT in the ACLR+LET group was 5.44 ± 4.65 mm and 1.13 ± 2.95 mm, respectively, compared with 5.03 ± 3.66 mm and 2 ± 3.12 mm, respectively, in the control group. There was no pre- to postoperative difference in SATT ( P = .51). However, the side-to-side DATT was reduced by 3.66 ± 3.37 mm postoperatively ( P < .001), without significant differences between groups ( P = .24).

Conclusion:

Including a LET procedure for patients undergoing ACLR did not reduce SATT; that is, it did not decrease the amount of tibial translation due to physiological axial load.
Return to Duty in Military Servicemembers After High Tibial Osteotomy Not Associated With Preoperative Radiographic Parameters : A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Feeley Scott M. , Rodkey Daniel L. , Harrington Colin J. , Porter Kaitlin , McMillan Logan , Amendola Annunziato , Slaven Sean E. , Dickens Jonathan F.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Evidence on return to sports/work after high tibial osteotomy (HTO) is limited, especially in a young, high-demand population.

Purpose:

To (1) identify whether preoperative knee pathology or intraoperative correction was associated with successful return to duty (RTD) and (2) assess whether postoperative complications and reoperation were associated with failure to RTD.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of Evidence, 4.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study of a consecutive series of patients in the Military Health System aged 18 to 55 years with medial compartment osteoarthritis who underwent HTO between 2003 and 2018. Concomitant meniscal and cartilage procedures were included, while cases with concomitant ligamentous procedures were excluded. The inclusion criteria were as follows: active-duty military status, minimum 2-year follow-up, preoperative knee radiographs, and pre- and postoperative long-leg alignment radiographs. Preoperative Kellgren-Lawrence grades and pre- and postoperative hip-knee-ankle angles were measured. The primary outcome was RTD. Failure was defined as knee-related medical separation from the military or conversion to total knee arthroplasty. The secondary outcome was reoperation.

Results:

A total of 55 HTOs were performed in 50 patients who met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 39 years old (range, 22.8-55 years). The mean follow-up was 5 years (range, 2.1-10.7 years). Ten knees (18.2%) failed HTO (1 conversion to total knee arthroplasty, 9 medical separations), 15 additional knees (27.3%) had permanent activity restrictions, and 30 knees (54.5%) returned to duty without restrictions. Reoperation occurred in 36.4% of knees and was associated with medical separation ( P = .039). Younger age was associated with medical separation ( P = .003) and permanent restrictions ( P = .006). Patients with a postoperative varus deformity of >5° were more likely to undergo medical separation ( P = .023).

Conclusion:

In a young, high-demand population, HTO succeeded in returning 54.5% of knees to full duty without restriction despite 36.4% of knees requiring reoperation. Residual varus deformity or reoperation was associated with lower RTD rates. No association was identified between RTD and preoperative osteoarthritis grading or deformity.
It Was Like Going to a Battlefield: Lived Experience of Frontline Nurses Supporting Two Hospitals in Wuhan During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyun , Edirippuige Sisira , Snoswell Centaine L. , Bambling Matthew , Liu Dongying , Smith Anthony C. , Bai Xuejun
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The literature indicates that pandemics significantly impact the mental health of frontline health workers. While the effects of COVID-19 on the mental health of frontline nurses have been studied, their lived experiences remain insufficiently explored.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the lived experience of nurses who were deployed to support Wuhan during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This study adopted a qualitative study design. A purposive sample of fifteen nurses were recruited from a group of nurses who supported Wuhan during COVID-19 pandemic. The data was collected during May and June 2020. Data collection occurred in May and June 2020, employing semistructured interviews conducted via telephone. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was utilized to analyze the collected data by two independent researchers. This report follows the COREQ checklist.

Results

Frontline nurses supporting Wuhan likened their experience to being on a battlefield. Four superordinate themes emerged: (1) mobilization for combating COVID-19; (2) rapid adaption to a dynamic high-stress environment; (3) navigating psychological distress; and (4) the journey home.

Conclusion

This study offers comprehensive insights into the lived experience of nurses deployed from other provinces to assist COVID patients in Wuhan. The findings indicate that despite facing a variety of challenges, these frontline nurses were capable of rapid adaptation and successfully fulfilled their roles. Recommendations for future preparedness in public health emergencies are provided. Additionally, follow-up research is warranted to explore the long-term effects of frontline experience on the mental health of the nurses and their family members.
Post-amalgamation Performance Review of Six Public Sector Banks in India
Authors: Mishra Matruprasad , Mohanty Amar Kumar
Published: May 2024

Consolidation of public sector banks (PSBs) is a part of reorganisation efforts with an aim to improve their profitability, solvency and efficiency. Of late merger of five subsidiaries of State Bank of India and Bharatiya Mahila Bank Ltd with it in April 2017 has kindled interest in restructuring of unprofitable banks by merging them with a profitable one. In August 2019, the Government of India announced amalgamation of 10 PSBs constituting them into four entities under Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, Union Bank of India and Indian Bank. Earlier in April 2019, another merger had taken place following the integration of Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank with Bank of Baroda. Studies reveal that while in European countries bank mergers led to improved efficiency, in Asian countries like Indonesia recapitalisation and diversification of banks improved their profitability. In a study of Nigerian banks in Africa it is revealed that post-merger, employee morale diminishes due to stress and anxiety arising out of possible job loss and possible challenges to be met in the new environment. In the present study, the authors have tried to ascertain how profitability, solvency and efficiency of banks improved post-amalgamation in six PSBs. The outcome of the result is a mixed one, while some banks improved their profitability and solvency parameters, for others it is not so perceptible. However, efficiency indicators do not have any significant result for all six of them after amalgamation.
What Lies in ‘Business Incubation and SMEs’ Research? A Literature Review and Roadmap for Future Research
Authors: Dhiman Vaishali , Arora Manpreet
Published: May 2024

The concept of ‘Business Incubation and SMEs’ has recently received a lot of interest in academic research and real-world business settings. Business incubator is a critical instrument for promoting entrepreneurial ecosystems and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Business incubation is a process that nurtures and promotes the growth of start-ups and early-stage companies. The aim of this article was to examine the existing literature on business incubators and SMEs in order to identify and highlight major as well as relevant themes and trends that can influence future research. The Scopus database was used to extract the data file. To develop network structures biblioshiny package of RStudio and VOSviewer was used. The results from the literature survey show some key observations highlight business incubators’ changing nature, challenges, and impact on economic and entrepreneurship development. In addition, SMEs can be better served if incubation programmes are tailored to specific industries or technologies, for this, governments should encourage the establishment of specialised incubation centres.
LINC00330/CCL2 axis-mediated ESCC TAM reprogramming affects tumor progression
Authors: Zhao Lijun , Wang Gengchao , Qi Haonan , Yu Lili , Yin Huilong , Sun Ruili , Wang Hongfei , Zhu Xiaofei , Yang Angang
Published: May 2024

Background

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) significantly influence the progression, metastasis, and recurrence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The aberrant expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in ESCC has been established, yet the role of lncRNAs in TAM reprogramming during ESCC progression remains largely unexplored.

Methods

ESCC TAM-related lncRNAs were identified by intersecting differentially expressed lncRNAs with immune-related lncRNAs and performing immune cell infiltration analysis. The expression profile and clinical relevance of LINC00330 were examined using the TCGA database and clinical samples. The LINC00330 overexpression and interference sequences were constructed to evaluate the effect of LINC00330 on ESCC progression. Single-cell sequencing data, CIBERSORTx, and GEPIA were utilized to analyze immune cell infiltration within the ESCC tumor microenvironment and to assess the correlation between LINC00330 and TAM infiltration. ESCC-macrophage coculture experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of LINC00330 on TAM reprogramming and its subsequent effect on ESCC progression. The interaction between LINC00330 and C–C motif ligand 2 (CCL2) was confirmed through transcriptomic sequencing, subcellular localization analysis, RNA pulldown, silver staining, RNA immunoprecipitation, and other experiments.

Results

LINC00330 is significantly downregulated in ESCC tissues and strongly associated with poor patient outcomes. Overexpression of LINC00330 inhibits ESCC progression, including proliferation, invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and tumorigenicity in vivo. LINC00330 promotes TAM reprogramming, and LINC00330-mediated TAM reprogramming inhibits ESCC progression. LINC00330 binds to the CCL2 protein and inhibits the expression of CCL2 and downstream signaling pathways. CCL2 is critical for LINC00330-mediated TAM reprogramming and ESCC progression.

Conclusions

LINC00330 inhibited ESCC progression by disrupting the CCL2/CCR2 axis and its downstream signaling pathways in an autocrine fashion; and by impeding CCL2-mediated TAM reprogramming in a paracrine manner. The new mechanism of TAM reprogramming mediated by the LINC00330/CCL2 axis may provide potential strategies for targeted and immunocombination therapies for patients with ESCC.

Graphical Abstract