bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
eCoaching as an Alternative to Traditional Supervision: Practices and Perspectives From University Supervisors
Authors: Regan Kelley , Weiss Margaret P. , O’Brien Kristen Merrill
Published: February 2025

Internship is a culminating student teaching experience traditionally involving sustained mentorship in the classroom of an experienced mentor teacher with some university supervision, and as such, it is a critical component in teacher preparation. When provisionally licensed teachers complete a non-traditional internship in their own classroom, however, they must rely primarily on university supervision for mentorship. We describe a study of an eCoaching model for university supervisors who were able to successfully provide sustained mentorship to these teachers through eCoaching. After completing online training modules, the participants implemented the eCoaching model that included focused goal setting and multiple feedback loops. In this study, we examined multiple data sources to describe university supervisors’ practices when enacting eCoaching and to gain a better understanding of their perspective about the use of the eCoaching model with provisionally licensed interns.
Determinants of Leverage in Emerging Markets and the Moderating Effect of Foreign Ownership: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Okeke Obiajulu Chibuzo , Abdoush Tony , Jemutu Alpha Shekwonya , Okere Wisdom
Published: February 2025

Managers of corporations are usually faced with several strategic decisions to make, including those related to capital structure and financial leverage. This study examines the determinants of leverage practices of listed non-financial firms, both local and foreign, and the moderating effect of foreign ownership. The study uses data from 61 listed non-financial firms over the period 2011–2021 and employs the generalized method of moments estimation technique to explore direct and moderating relationships. The key findings show that profitability, firm growth, liquidity, asset tangibility, capital expenditure, dividend and foreign ownership decrease leverage significantly, while holding more cash increases leverage practices significantly. In particular, firm growth, asset tangibility and dividend increase leverage insignificantly (significantly for cash), whereas return on asset and liquidity significantly decrease leverage in local firms (insignificantly for capital expenditure). On the other hand, all firm characteristics, except cash and dividends, significantly decrease leverage in foreign firms. Moreover, foreign firms have more debt financing compared to the local firms in Nigeria. It is also evident that foreign ownership moderates the relationship between return on asset, firm growth and leverage practices. Such findings should assist managers, investors and regulators in Nigeria to understand the determining factors of leverage and to consider the accruing benefits of debt financing over equity financing.
Impact of Product Market Competition on the Likelihood of Cross-Border Business Expansion
Authors: Islam Muhammad Rofiqul
Published: February 2025

The effects of product market competition on a firm’s financial policy and business strategy are evident in extant literature. As a firm’s internationalization is a function of financial policy and business strategy, the firm’s decision is impacted by product market competition. However, prior studies lack empirical evidence supporting the relationship between product market competition and firm internationalization. We tested our hypotheses using a panel data set ( n = 64,147 firm-year observations) of publicly traded U.S. firms from 1990 to 2021 employing a panel data econometric model [i.e., partial least squared-ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed effect model]. The study results supported our hypothesis that product market competition reduces the likelihood of a firm’s internationalization. The study results enhance managerial understanding of internationalization decisions and suggest that businesses should consider the product market’s competitive position while making internationalization decisions. Policymakers should support those firms in overcoming the negative impact of product market threats to support internationalization.
Cyanidin 3-O-β-d-Glucoside from Black Bean Inhibits the Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in the Presence of Adipocytes
Authors: Yuui Katsuya , Kudo Risa , Kasuda Shogo , Ueshima Shigeru
Published: February 2025

Background

The potential of cyanidin 3- O-β-D-glucoside (C3G), known for its anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties, in suppressing arteriosclerosis progression remains unexplored.

Purpose

This study aimed to elucidate whether C3G prevents or ameliorates arteriosclerosis by investigating the effects of C3G on the transformation, proliferation, and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Herein, we evaluated the effects of C3G on the migratory ability of SMCs in the presence of adipocytes.

Materials and Methods

SMCs and 3T3-L1 adipocytes were cocultured in a Boyden chamber, with SMCs positioned in the upper chamber and pre-adipocytes in the lower chamber. Pre-adipocytes were initially seeded in the lower chamber and prompted to undergo differentiation over days 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8. SMCs were seeded in the upper chamber. The quantification of cells that migrated through the membrane was carried out. The migratory potential of SMCs within the SMC/adipocyte coculture (SACC) setup was assessed by placing the upper chamber into wells containing adipocytes, with or without 0.1% C3G.

Results

The findings indicated that the accumulation of lipid droplets in adipocytes increased as the differentiation stage progressed. The amount of lipid droplets that accumulated upon the addition of C3G was significantly lower than that in the control. C3G was found to inhibit the active form of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) while enhancing the levels of the anti-inflammatory adipocytokine adiponectin. In the SACC, SMC migration increased alongside lipid droplet accumulation in adipocytes. We revealed that C3G decreased the active form of PAI-1 in the SACC and suppressed vascular SMC migration.

Conclusion

C3G inhibited the migration of SMCs in the SACC, highlighting its potential as a compound that can prevent arteriosclerosis and thrombus formation progression by suppressing hyperplasia of the vascular intima.
Level of Stress and Coping Strategies Adopted by Undergraduate Students Attending e-learning Classes: A Cross-sectional Study from Eastern India
Authors: Devi Rajita , Mohanan Keerthi , Thakur Pooja , Thakur Monika
Published: February 2025

Background

COVID-19 has forced universities across India and the world indeed, to suspend physical classrooms and shift to online classes to contain the outbreak, which caused stress among students and usage of adaptive and maladaptive coping mechanisms. Early identification of faulty coping mechanisms will help to reduce stress and prevent unwanted behavioural modification among students.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the levels of stress and coping strategies adopted by undergraduate students attending e-learning classes.

Materials and Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among undergraduate students of various disciplines (general degree, professional and others) from the Eastern part of India who were attending e-learning classes during the COVID-19 pandemic using a snowball sampling technique from July 2020 to June 2021. Level of stress associated with higher learning was assessed by Higher Education Stress Inventory scale (HESI) and coping strategies were assessed by the WHO Brief-COPE inventory.

Results

The mean age of the subjects was 21.63 ± 1.629 years. The mean score of the subjects for level of stress using HESI was 93.7 ± 11.35. The majority of the subjects had moderate stress (73%) related to e-learning followed by severe stress (27%). None of the participants had mild stress. Participants mostly used adaptive coping techniques to manage stress in both moderate and severe stress ( P < .001). Level of stress and year of study and monthly family income of the subjects were found to have a significant difference in mean scores ( P = .003). Year of the study and age had significant associations with adaptive coping techniques. Active coping (adaptive technique) was used by female students more than male students ( P = .02).

Conclusion

An increased awareness of e-learning and the specific stressors that students face, will allow educational institutions to offer specific and tailored support to their students.
Holistic Family-Centered Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Enhancing Child and Parental Well-Being: A Case Study
Authors: Dutta Subhashis , Mandal Lata
Published: February 2025

This case study underscores the critical need for comprehensive family-centered interventions for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly in resource-constrained settings like rural India. Raja, the subject of this case, displayed atypical communicative and social behaviors around 18 months of age. Despite early diagnosis, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown delayed therapeutic interventions, exacerbating challenges for Raja and his family. Initial therapies, including speech and occupational therapy, were ineffective, leading to increased irritability and distress in Raja and further straining the family dynamics. At three years of age, Raja remained uncommunicative, cried frequently, was socially passive, and had poor eating and sleeping habits. His parents, overwhelmed and frustrated, experienced frequent arguments and blamed each other for their child’s behavior, avoiding social gatherings and feeling hopeless about the future. The intervention implemented in this case study has its conceptual underpinning in Roy’s adaptation model. Calista Roy’s model is based on the assumption that every individual is a biopsychosocial being and, when confronted with a focal stimulus, strives to adapt to a challenging situation through various modes like interdependence, physical, and self-concept. This leads the individual either toward positive or negative maladaptive behavior. The goal of the intervention was to promote the adaptation of Raja’s parents in a positive direction. The intervention was implemented in two phases over six months through 25 online sessions, each lasting between 1 and 1.5 hours. The intervention significantly improved Raja’s behavior and the overall family well-being, highlighting the effectiveness of involving the entire family in ASD interventions. This case study provides empirical support for the RAM framework’s conceptual assumption that support and care facilitate the adoption of positive adaptation strategies. The findings demonstrate that interventions targeting familial support and adaptive behaviors not only benefit the child but also enhance the overall well-being of the parents, underscoring the broader impact of holistic approaches in managing ASD.
Special Issue Introduction: Spotlight on Early-Career Researchers of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association
Authors: Kotlarek Katelyn J. , Cray James J.
Published: February 2025

A special issue of the Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal was curated to highlight early-career researchers of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association and their innovative research contributions. This collection of 13 manuscripts, all led by early-career researcher authors of diverse disciplines and training, represents a wide variety of topics related to the science surrounding craniofacial care.
Low-order MIMO controller for turbomachinery supported by active magnetic bearings
Authors: Donati Giovanni , Neri Massimiliano Ortiz , Mugnaini Marco , Basso Michele , Sawicki Jerzy T
Published: February 2025

In industry, the operation of turbomachinery supported by active magnetic bearings (AMBs) requires a robust and simple controller to meet increased performance requirements and stringent regulations. This study proposes an innovative low-order Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) controller. Its structure is derived from the decentralized augmented Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller, enhanced with fixed terms in the skew-diagonals of the controller matrix. The resulting controller couples the information acquired by the AMB sensors on the same control axis to enhance the overall performance. The parameters of the new MIMO structure are tuned using a model-based procedure that exploits a non-smooth optimization algorithm, with the rotor model adjusted on experimental measurements to represent the real dynamics of the system. The novel controller performance is evaluated through two case studies: first, an expander-compressor system; second, a centrifugal turbo compressor designed for oil and gas applications, facing challenges associated with the observability and controllability of the second bending mode. The performance is then compared with that obtained using a decentralized augmented PID controller whose parameters have been tuned with the same non-smooth optimization algorithm. The new controller demonstrates a significant reduction in vibration caused by rotor bending modes. For example, in the analyzed case studies, unbalance responses were reduced by up to a factor of 10. Moreover, the proposed controller increases robustness compared to the decentralized case, as demonstrated by the second case study where controllability and observability issues are addressed.
Insight into the potato protein-based vegan cheese: A comprehensive study on physicochemical, mechanical and molecular properties
Authors: Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Smarzyński Krzysztof , Biegalski Jakub , Muzolf-Panek Małgorzata , Cais-Sokolińska Dorota , Ruszkowska Millena , Lewandowicz Jacek , Miedzianka Joanna , Wróbel Martyna Maria , Kačániová Miroslava , Baranowska Hanna Maria
Published: February 2025

The growing interest in plant-based diets is driving the search for new products, including alternatives to dairy cheese. The aim of this research was to develop a recipe and technology for the production of a vegan cheese, then to characterize the physical, mechanical as well as molecular properties of the obtained products. The use of protein isolated from potato juice seems to be appropriate due to the nutritional value of the formed product and to the environmental benefits, that is, the use of waste potato juice to obtain a valuable raw material. It was found that as a result of the interaction of protein with carbohydrates and fats, the hardness and viscosity of the obtained products increase. Moreover, it was shown that one of the tested cheese analogues, which contains 5% of potato juice protein, 12% of oil and 25% of modified potato starch, is the optimal analyzed variant. It has attractive culinary properties, such as meltability; therefore, it can be used in production of hot dishes, for example, as a plant-based alternative to dairy cheese in pizza.
Police Officers Moved by MeToo: Increased Victim Awareness While Sexual Harassment Persists
Authors: Steinþórsdóttir Finnborg S. , Pétursdóttir Gyða M.
Published: February 2025

This research explores changes in the prevalence and nature of sexual harassment and the potential impact of the MeToo movement on police officers. Drawing on a whole population survey data from the Icelandic police in 2013 and 2022, we find self-labeling as victims of sexual harassment has increased, but no significant changes in exposure to sexually harassing behaviors. Consistent with previous research, the prevalence and manifestations of sexual harassment are gendered. However, our findings indicate that many police officers, especially women, have altered their behavior or shared their experiences of harassment or violence since the start of MeToo. We argue that the rise in self-labeled sexual harassment can be attributed to increased awareness brought by the MeToo movement. However, the absence of changes in exposure to sexually harassing behaviors indicates that it remains a gendered problem, entrenched in the masculinity contest culture of the police.
Identification of Molecular Subtypes and Prognostic Features of Breast Cancer Based on TGF-β Signaling-related Genes
Authors: Qu Jia , Wang Mei-Huan , Gao Yue-Hua , Zhang Hua-Wei
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

The TGF-β signaling pathway is widely acknowledged for its role in various aspects of cancer progression, including cellular invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and immunosuppression. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and pharmacological agents that target TGF-β offer significant potential as therapeutic options for cancer. However, the specific role of TGF-β in prognostic assessment and treatment strategies for breast cancer (BC) remains unclear.

Methods:

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was utilized to develop a predictive model incorporating five TGF-β signaling-related genes (TSRGs). The GSE161529 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus was employed to conduct single-cell analyses aimed at further elucidating the characteristics of these TSRGs. Additionally, an unsupervised clustering algorithm was applied to categorize BC patients into two distinct groups based on the five TSRGs, with a focus on immune response and overall survival (OS). Further investigations were conducted to explore variations in pharmacotherapy and the tumor microenvironment across different patient cohorts and clusters.

Results:

The predictive model for BC identified five TSRGs: FUT8, IFNG, ID3, KLF10, and PARD6A. Single-cell analysis revealed that IFNG is predominantly expressed in CD8+ T cells. Consensus clustering effectively categorized BC patients into two distinct clusters, with cluster B demonstrating a longer OS and a more favorable prognosis. Immunological assessments indicated a higher presence of immune checkpoints and immune cells in cluster B, suggesting a greater likelihood of responsiveness to ICIs.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study highlight the potential of the TGF-β signaling pathway for prognostic classification and the development of personalized treatment strategies for BC patients, thereby enhancing our understanding of its significance in BC prognosis.
Atmospheres of care, coercion, and containment: An affective ethnography
Authors: Miele Francesco , Gherardi Silvia
Published: February 2025

There are atmospheres that happen in a more or less recurrent way within an organization even if they take a different form at any new occurrence. One example is the affective atmosphere called The Sunset Syndrome that takes place in a nursing home dedicated to people with Alzheimer’s disease. In similar settings, care practices are intertwined with the use of coercion, and the use of coercion affects both the receivers of it and those who exerts it. Containment of the anxieties becomes a force inside an affective atmosphere understood as a field of forces. The article offers an affective ethnography of the multiple forms that the atmosphere takes according to how people, materials, discourses, and knowledges enter into a choreographic movement according to specific orientation. The Sunset Syndrome’s shape varies according to how care, coercion, and containment become entangled in care practices. The contribution that an affective ethnography offers to the study of atmospheres is focused on their affective, material, and organizational dimensions, often misrecognized in organization studies.
Modulation of arterial wall remodeling by mechanical stress: Focus on abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Qiao Maolin , Li Yaling , Yan Sheng , Zhang Rui Jing , Dong Honglin
Published: February 2025

The rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) poses a significant threat, with a high mortality rate, and the mechanical stability of the arterial wall determines both its growth and potential for rupture. Owing to extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, wall-resident cells are subjected to an aberrant mechanical stress environment. In response to stress, the cellular mechanical signaling pathway is activated, initiating the remodeling of the arterial wall to restore stability. A decline in mechanical signal responsiveness, coupled with inadequate remodeling, significantly contributes to the AAA’s progressive expansion and eventual rupture. In this review, we summarize the main stresses experienced by the arterial wall, emphasizing the critical role of the ECM in withstanding stress and the importance of stress-exposed cells in maintaining mechanical stability. Furthermore, we will discuss the application of biomechanical analyses as a predictive tool for assessing AAA stability.
Critical review of the daylight glare probability and proposal for modification for improved evaluation of small glare sources
Authors: Geisler-Moroder D , Knoflach C
Published: February 2025

EN 17037 defines essential properties of daylight in buildings: daylight provision, view out, sunlight exposure and glare protection. For assessing glare, the standard proposes the daylight glare probability (DGP) metric. A look at the formula reveals the following problem: since the luminance is included quadratically, but the solid angle only linearly, small but bright glare sources (e.g. the sun) are rated highly. This must be questioned if the glare stimulus can no longer be distinguished from larger stimuli causing equal vertical illuminance at the eye, especially in the peripheral visual field. For the unified glare rating for artificial lighting, this is avoided by limiting the minimum solid angle of the glare source. There is nothing comparable for the DGP. We present a simulation study on how the DGP changes with the bidirectional scattering distribution function resolution for complex fenestration systems or with rendering the sun at its real size. We performed subject experiments on the discriminability of small light stimuli in the periphery in a laboratory setup. Based on the findings, we propose adjusting the DGP by limiting the minimum glare source solid angle depending on its position in the field of view. We conclude with an evaluation of the simulation results with the modified metric daylight glare metric (DGM) and point out open issues that still need to be investigated.
A prize-dependent loitering time approach to UAS routing: application to South China Sea maritime domain awareness
Authors: Sadov Tim , Sharp Travis
Published: February 2025

This article advances the geographic grid approach to military unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) routing featured in the existing literature. Its contributions are twofold. First, it demonstrates an empirical scoring system to determine the most important areas for maritime domain awareness-focused intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance collection, applying the method to the South China Sea. Second, it introduces what we call the “team orienteering problem with prize-dependent loitering times” (TOP-PDLT) and uses that model to identify optimal UAS collection routes in the South China Sea. Compared with other grid-based UAS routing schemes that use service time-dependent profits, TOP-PDLT is shown to be particularly applicable to military use-cases.
A novel motion control approach for tethered wheeled mobile robot on extreme terrain
Authors: Wang Xiaotao , Wang Xingyu , Zhang Jiayou
Published: February 2025

Some of the most valuable science targets for future exploration mission located at the extreme terrains of the planetary surfaces are currently inaccessible to the conventional rovers. The tethered mobile robot with one end fixed to the mother robot or an anchor point has the ability to rappel down steep slopes and traverse rocky terrain, and is a reasonable solution to the above missions. Since the model of the tethered mobile robot can be formulated as a cascade of kinematics and dynamics, a novel backstepping motion control approach is proposed in this paper, in which the kinematic and dynamic controllers are designed independently in a recursive way. In the proposed approach, the optimal distribution of the tether tension and the torque to drive the left and right wheels of the tethered robot is obtained based on the minimization of the system power consumption when the robot traveling on the extreme terrains. In addition, a nonlinear disturbance observer is integrated into the dynamic controller to estimate the disturbance from the rugged terrains. Simulations are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Antiplatelet and anticoagulation use and risk of bleeding from percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy insertion: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Brown Mark , Elsawy Fayez , Allison Benjamin , McGrath Brendan
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

Antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapies are frequently required in acutely unwell patients and confer an increased propensity for procedural bleeding. During percutaneous tracheostomy insertion, the decision to stop these therapies is left to clinical decision-makers. This meta-analysis summarises the risk of bleeding associated with antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy during percutaneous tracheostomy insertion.

Method:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies which reported intraoperative bleeding during percutaneous tracheostomy while on single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) or dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), as well as therapeutic anticoagulation (TAC). Groups were compared against those with prophylactic or no anticoagulation. Studies were pooled using random effects via the inverse variance method.

Results:

Four databases found 22 eligible studies, of which 14 studies presented data for meta-analysis representing 3,485 percutaneous tracheostomy insertion procedures. These included six studies that reported intraoperative bleeding outcome SAPT, six for DAPT and five for TAC. Overall, methodological quality was poor. No significant association was found for SAPT (Odds ratio 1.58; 95% confidence interval 0.72–4.41); P = 0.25; I2 = 81%) and TAC (OR 1.79; 95% CI 0.58–5.56; P = 0.35; I2 = 35%). The DAPT group was associated with increased bleeding with an OR of 2.05 (95% CI 1.18–3.56; P = 0.01; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion:

Our study supports temporarily withholding DAPT or TAC (if clinically feasible) to minimize bleeding risks associated with percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy.
Investigating the Impact of Sustainable Rice Cultivation Processes (Alternative Wetting and Drying and Direct Seeded Rice) on the Indian Agrarian Economy and its Contribution to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Karnani Vidhushi
Published: February 2025

Sustainability has become an integral part of the United Nations’ development goals to ensure that the usage of resources in the present does not deplete the quality or quantity of resources available for future generations. The importance of sustainable agricultural practices has increased by manifolds when combating environmental and food security challenges. Rice cultivation in India alone comprises 26% of global rice production hence alternative rice farming methods are being explored for their potential contribution to fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring that the agrarian economy in India is growing at a sustainable rate.i This study aims to analyse the extent to which alternative sustainable rice cultivation methods (Alternative Wetting and Drying [AWD] and Direct Seeded Rice [DSR]) align with Social Development goals and impact the Indian economy. The research employs a qualitative analysis of secondary data from academic journals, government reports, and industry publications to evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of sustainable rice farming methods. The findings indicate that practices such as DSR and AWD significantly reduce water usage, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve soil health aligning with the SDGs (specifically SDG 12 [Responsible Consumption and Production] SDG 13 [Climate Change] and SDG 15 [Life on Earth]). Additionally, these practices are shown to offer long-term economic benefits for farmers through increased yields and reduced input costs and provide an external benefit to society by reducing the harmful impact of the wastage of water and greenhouse gas emissions on the environment. This study also discusses various government policies and private-sector projects that have incentivised farmers to adopt these sustainable rice cultivation practices. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how sustainable agricultural practices can be leveraged to achieve global sustainability goals, offering a model for integrating environmental and economic objectives in agricultural policy.
Spiritual Wellbeing in Indian Banking Sector: Sustainable Leadership Practices
Authors: Chakraborty Ishani , Nasim Saboohi
Published: February 2025

In the present business scenario, organisations grapple with continuous disruption driven by competition, technological advancements, geopolitical volatility and an increasingly informed consumer base. This evolving environment has shifted from the VUCA model (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity) to the BANI framework (brittle, anxious, nonlinear and incomprehensible). To navigate these challenges, resilience and agility have become crucial for organisations, necessitating the development of a supportive culture and competent workforce. Amidst newspaper reports of toxic leadership and toxic culture prevailing in Indian banking sector, employee wellbeing has become a significant aspect for better performance in recent times. As India aims to become $5 trillion economy by FY 2025–26, the Indian banking sector is expected to align itself with this objective and perform efficiently. In this backdrop, it can be argued that spiritual leadership may act as toxin handler and influence job engagement through spiritual wellbeing. This research study aims to explore the relationship between spiritual leadership, spiritual wellbeing and job engagement in the Indian banking sector. The proposed conceptual framework, derived from Fry’s (2005) Causal Model of Spiritual Leadership, indicates ‘vision’, ‘hope/faith’ and ‘altruistic love’ as components of spiritual leadership and ‘meaning/calling’ and ‘membership’ as components of spiritual wellbeing. The conceptual model is then tested using partial least squares structural equation modelling and the result confirms that spiritual wellbeing is a significant predictor of ‘job engagement’ in the Indian banking sector. Further, this study establishes the critical role of spiritual leadership in enhancing overall employee wellbeing. Leadership is a crucial factor in creating the right work environment and practicing spiritual leadership would help nurture an engaged workforce.
Understanding the experience of persons living with chronic abdomino-pelvic pain: A cross-sectional nationwide survey
Authors: Manko Kelsey , Ajewole Christana O. , Lewis Hannah , Barish Stefanie , Lamvu Georgine
Published: February 2025

Background:

Few studies describe the healthcare expectations and experiences of persons living with chronic pelvic pain (CPP), despite its prevalence.

Objectives:

To describe pain symptoms, impact, interference with quality of life, treatment goals, treatments tried, and satisfaction with treatments and healthcare professionals among persons with CPP and determine whether these characteristics vary by pain duration (<6 months vs. ⩾6 months).

Design:

Cross-sectional population survey.

Methods/Participants/Setting:

Survey distributed to US persons ⩾18 years old.

Results:

Of 1,118 completed respondents, 69.8% ( n = 780) reported abdominal/pelvic pain and a pain level ⩾2 on a 0–10 scale. Of those, 122 respondents had pelvic pain lasting <6 months, while 658 had pain ⩾6 months (categorized as having CPP.) Compared to those with pain <6 months, persons with CPP were more likely to have severe pain that interfered with relationships ( p = 0.001), sleep ( p = 0.042), enjoyment of life ( p = 0.004), mood ( p = 0.019), and normal daily activity ( p=0.035). They were more likely to have pain that impacted sexual function ( p = 0.001) and ability to raise a family ( p = 0.035) and were more likely to report receiving conflicting information from healthcare professionals (HCPs) ( p = 0.001). In both groups, few were satisfied (very—somewhat satisfied categories combined) with care (34.9% vs. 38.6%, p = 0.332) and treatment (33.9% vs. 27.1%, p = 0.355).

Limitations:

Survey with close-ended questions.

Conclusion:

Individuals with abdomino-pelvic pain, particularly those with chronic pain, experience significant pain and disability, but many report receiving inadequate treatment or unsatisfactory care. This suggests there is still a need for improved healthcare services that address the unique needs of this population.
Credibility of Blood Flow Restriction Training in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: He Jinrong , Zhang Lei , Wu Quanshuo , Zhang Jialin
Published: February 2025

Background:

The effectiveness and practicality of blood flow restriction training (BFRT) as a nonsurgical intervention for treating patients with knee injuries are uncertain because of the small size of BFRT trials and inconsistent results.

Purpose:

To conduct a meta-analysis comparing the effectiveness of BFRT versus traditional resistance training in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) in terms of pain, muscle strength, functional performance, self-reported function, muscle size, and adverse events during exercise.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence: 1.

Methods:

Under the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we searched the Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, and other databases for randomized controlled trials of BFRT interventions in patients with knee OA. Methodological and quality evaluations, heterogeneity analysis, and subgroup analysis of the included studies were conducted, and effect sizes were evaluated using mean differences or standardized mean differences (SMDs). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were used to explore the sources of heterogeneity.

Results:

Of 2826 initial studies, 6 studies (N = 228 patients) were included. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that compared with resistance training, BFRT did not significantly affect pain relief (SMD, −0.02 [95% CI, −0.30 to 0.26]; P = .88), muscle strength (SMD, 0.32 [95% CI, −0.33 to 0.96]; P = .33), functional performance (SMD, 0.25 [95% CI, −0.29 to 0.80]; P = .36), or self-reported function (SMD, −0.252 [95% CI, −0.88 to 0.45]; P = .52). However, BFRT reduced the risk of adverse events (risk ratio, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.20 to 1.01]; P = .05). Subgroup analysis revealed that compared with low-load resistance training, BFRT significantly increased muscle size (SMD, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.09 to 1.68]; P = .02). The quality-of-evidence assessment indicated that the evidence level for the above outcomes was low and that the strength of the recommendation was weak.

Conclusion:

The results of our meta-analysis indicated that compared with resistance training, BFRT did not significantly improve symptom outcomes in patients with knee OA. It is important to acknowledge that the findings were limited by the small number of studies and sample sizes that were included.
Kinematic Parameters Associated With Elbow Varus Torque in Elite Adult Baseball Pitchers
Authors: McCutcheon Thomas W. , Slowik Jonathan S. , Fleisig Glenn S.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Numerous studies have investigated pitching kinematics associated with elbow varus torque, but these studies were limited in the parameters analyzed and/or the number of pitchers tested.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this work was to evaluate numerous kinematic parameters in a large sample of elite adult pitchers. It was hypothesized that several kinematic parameters would be associated with variations in elbow varus torque.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

A deidentified biomechanical database of 523 pitchers (425 professional; 98 collegiate) was analyzed. For each pitcher, 21 kinematic parameters and normalized elbow varus torque (% body weight × height) were calculated. A stepwise multivariate linear regression model evaluated significant findings. In addition, biomechanical differences were identified between the high- and low-torque groups using Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results:

Forty percent of the variance in normalized torque was explained by 11 kinematic parameters. Comparison of the high- and low-torque groups demonstrated significant differences in 10 of these parameters (all except pelvic angular velocity). Compared with the low-torque group, the high-torque group had greater ball velocity, shoulder abduction at foot contact, elbow flexion at foot contact, maximum knee extension velocity during arm acceleration, maximum elbow extension velocity during arm acceleration, and trunk contralateral tilt at ball release. In addition, the high-torque group had lower upper trunk tilt at foot contact, shoulder external rotation at foot contact, maximum external rotation, and shoulder abduction at ball release.

Conclusion:

Normalized elbow varus torque was associated with ball velocity and 10 other kinematic parameters. Ball velocity and 9 of these kinematic parameters were significantly different between the high-torque and low-torque groups. These parameters may be related to increased pitch velocity but also increased load within the throwing elbow.

Clinical Relevance:

This study provides pitchers, coaches, and trainers with objectives for modification of pitching mechanics to reduce elbow torque and possible risk of injury, particularly kinematics in the early phase of the pitching motion.
The use of Al2O3 as heat-sink during vanadium extraction by thermite process
Authors: Jain Uttam , Awasthi Alok
Published: February 2025

Vanadium is prepared by aluminothermic reduction of oxides. As the reaction with V2O5 is highly vigorous, the reduction is carried out with V2O5/V2O3 mixture for controlled reaction. Reduction of V2O5 alone to vanadium with the addition of Al2O3 as heat-sink is proposed in this work. While keeping the heat of process constant at 3680 kJ/kg in laboratory thermite reactors, the slag fluidiser CaO was partially and then fully replaced with Al2O3. Use of Al2O3 resulted in controlled reaction (with recovery as metal reaching from 50% to 83%), lesser loss in slag (from 10% to 1% vanadium) and lower nitrogen (from 1000 ppm to 130 pm) in metal. MgO of the reactor sometimes participates in the reaction. The loss of vanadium in slag is related to MgAl2O4 content of the slag. Molten Al2O3 appears to scavenge the dissolved nitrogen from molten vanadium. Results have been explained from available thermodynamic data.
Exploring the proficiency of basic mathematical facts among primary mathematics teachers
Authors: Nanda Ankita , Rani Rekha
Published: February 2025

Mathematics serves as an indispensable cornerstone of our lives, facilitating understanding and enabling countless possibilities. The foundational mathematics skills cultivated during early childhood education play a crucial role in shaping a child’s academic journey and future success. The fundamental principle of foundational mathematics skills, basic mathematical facts, serve as the foundation stone upon which more complex concepts are built. These facts constitute basic numerical combinations underpinning mathematical operations, but when we examine the findings of various reports closely, we see that many Indian students struggle with foundational mathematics. A notable contributing factor to this lies in the inadequacy of primary mathematics teachers’ proficiency in these essential concepts. This study examined the proficiency of primary mathematics teachers in basic addition facts and what instructional approaches they use to teach addition to the students. The alarming results showed that a large majority of them lacked clarity of proficiency in this fundamental area. Amidst advancements in creative teaching strategies, it is crucial for educators to stay updated. However, the results indicate that some teachers do utilize manipulatives, interactive play and experiential techniques in their teaching approaches but most of them still rely on traditional methods like using the blackboard and fingers.
Successful management of catheter injury or refractory infection by partial replantation of peritoneal dialysis catheters: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Ryou Seyoung , Ko Eun Jeong , Park Hoon Suk , Chung Byung Ha , Park Cheol Whee , Yang Chul Woo , Kim Yong-Soo , Kim Hyung Duk , Kim Yaeni
Published: February 2025

Background

The revised 2023 guidelines from the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) emphasize salvage methods for treating refractory catheter-related infections, or mechanical catheter damage. This approach preserves the existing catheter by manipulating only the outer cuff above the peritoneum, avoiding hemodialysis transfer. We investigated the effectiveness of the partial replantation technique.

Methods

In this retrospective single-center study (January 2021 - December 2023), outcomes for nine patients undergoing salvage methods were compared with 58 patients receiving de novo catheter insertion. We assessed exit-site infection (ESI), tunnel infection (TI), peritonitis, and catheter dysfunction. The salvage method entailed distal cutting of the impaired catheter and attaching a new segment using a connector with a PD adaptor and transfer set.

Results

Nine patients (four males, mean age 56 years, average PD duration 66 months) employed the salvage method. Post-procedure, one patient (11.1%) reported ESI, one (11.1%) experienced TI, three (33.3%) developed peritonitis, and two (22.2%) required catheter removal. No procedural complications or catheter dysfunctions were observed. In the control group, ESI occurred in six patients (10.3%), TI in one (1.7%), peritonitis in 11 (19.0%), catheter removal in seven (12.1%), and catheter dysfunction in one (1.7%). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed no statistical difference between the groups: ESI (p = 0.306), TI (p = 0.094), peritonitis (p = 0.838), catheter dysfunction (p = 0.694), and catheter removal (p = 0.393).

Conclusions

This study supports the non-inferiority and effectiveness of the salvage method compared to de novo insertion in managing ESI or TI and mechanical catheter damage.
Metabolic control and its associated factors in type 1 diabetic people: longitudinal trajectory modeling
Authors: Khosravi Zahra , Taghipour Ali , Afzalaghaee Monavar , Esmaily Habibollah , Khosravi Ahmad
Published: February 2025

Background

Diabetes is a chronic disease, and hyperglycemia can increase the risk of diabetic complications and the need for more inpatient services. Therefore, the prevention and control of diabetes are important. This study aimed to identify the trajectories of metabolic control and its correlates in people with type 1 diabetes.

Method

This is a longitudinal study with 2020 type 1 diabetic individuals aged 18 to 59 years. The participants’ glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was measured three times with a six-month interval between each measurement. The data were analyzed using group-based trajectory modeling. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the factors related to these groups.

Results

The results showed four trajectories of safe controlled (46.2%), moderate stable risk (28.7%), moderate increasing risk (12.5%), and high decreasing risk trajectory (12.6%) (entropy = 0.70). The results of multinomial logistic regression showed dyslipidemia could increase the odds of being in the three risk trajectories. Education, physical inactivity, and poor psychological status could also increase the odds of being in the moderate stable and high decreasing trajectories. Moreover, sex, job, and BMI could increase the odds of being in the high decreasing risk group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Since there are different trajectories of metabolic control of diabetes, it is necessary for healthcare providers and health experts to plan behavioral interventions based on the location of individuals in different trajectories and the related significant risk factors. In this way, appropriate prevention, care, and treatment programs can be provided for the people in each group.
Experiences of working as a clinical nurse while pregnant during the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic: a qualitative study
Authors: Wu Lin Ye , Yeung Wing Fai , Pei Yao Lin , Chen Ling Xi , Li Meng Qi , Ruan Jia Yin
Published: February 2025

Background

Working as a pregnant clinical nurse might experience a range of challenges, such as significant anatomical and physiological changes as well as emotional and cognitive changes. That might be particularly obvious under the historical background of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, a dearth of studies has explored the experiences of working as a pregnant nurse during this special period. This study aimed to explore the experiences of working as a clinical nurse while pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative design was selected. Purposive sampling, combined with maximum variation strategy and snowball sampling, were utilized to identify and select participants from tertiary-teaching hospitals, specialized hospitals, and community hospitals in Zhejiang Province, southeastern China. Online semi-structured individual interviews were used to collect data, and conventional content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

Eleven Chinese nurses with a mean age of 31.8 years, ranging from 26 to 40 years, participated in this study. Four themes and twelve subthemes emerged: (1) still adhering to work as a clinical nurse despite being pregnant during the pandemic; (2) working during pregnancy under pandemic is still an ordinary nurse; (3) still staying in the special life phase as a pregnant mother; and (4) growth and gains as pregnant mother.

Conclusion

The pregnant clinical nurses suffered from various changes and difficulties during the pandemic. Managers, occupational health and other health system leaders, and policymakers should be aware of the importance of establishing a work environment that guarantees safe continued pregnancy. Future studies should focus on the establishment of specific guidelines and manuals regarding how pregnant nurses worked, as well as the development of self-protection interventions during pregnancy. Moreover, research on moral stigma and bullying in nursing during pregnancy deserves further exploration.

Clinical trial number

Not applicable.
Exploring the impact of social influence on parents’ intention to use institutional childcare: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu Bo , Zhang Difan , Sun Yin , Yao Yuna , Li Yingji , Hu Huiling
Published: February 2025

Background

China is actively responding to low birth rates by developing childcare institutions to alleviate the parenting pressures on families. However, despite strong childcare demand, the enrollment rate remains low. Few studies have explored the role of social influence in parents' childcare decisions. Therefore, this study will construct a research model to explore the mechanisms of social influence on parents' intentions to use childcare institutions.

Methods

This study used parents of infants and toddlers in mainland China as the study population. Questionnaires were collected through electronic surveys created on a professional website, with 554 responses gathered through purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and Importance-Performance Map Analysis (IPMA).

Results

The results indicate that perceived benefits are the significant driving variable for parents' intention to use childcare institutions, while price sensitivity and perceived risk are significant barriers. Normative influence and perceived childcare policy significantly affect perceived benefits and price sensitivity, while informational influence has a significant positive effect on perceived risk. Additionally, the Importance-Performance Map Analysis (IPMA) shows that improvements should focus more on price sensitivity given the current low performance.

Conclusions

These findings provide insights for childcare policymakers and institutional childcare managers and will generate a management basis for developing China’s childcare service industry.