bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Freely Espousing: James Schuyler, Surveillance Poetry, and the Queer Otic
Authors: Levine R Morris
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Amidst the “lavender scare” of the Cold War, James Schuyler, “the great queer voice of the New York School,” subverted the state’s auditory surveillance of queer life. Refunctionalizing its tools of espionage as poetic tactics, Schuyler eavesdrops on errant conversations (the espoused) and joining (espousing) them in paratactic assembly. In so doing, Schuyler expands José Esteban Muñoz’s “queer optic,” the utopian capacity to see beauty amidst ruins, beyond the visual into a queer otic that drags into being a world of freer espousal. I survey the aural surveillance of mid-century queer life before tracing Schuyler’s détournement of bugging, wiretapping, and overhearing in his 1969 Freely Espousing . In turn, I uncover the queer political commitments lurking beneath Schuyler’s classification as a pastoral lyricist concerned only with “leaves and flowers and weather.”
Experimental demonstration of a multi-core fiber seeded comb optical network (MCF-SCON)
Authors: Puttnam B. J. , Luis R. S. , Orsuti D. , Rademacher G. , Di Sciullo G. , van den Hout M. , Sakaguchi J. , Antonelli C. , Okonkwo C. , Palmieri L. , Furukawa H.
Published: March 2024

We propose and experimentally demonstrate an optical network architecture that uses wideband optical frequency comb (OFC) sources synchronized with transmitted network broadcast seed signals. All network nodes are connected by multi-core fibers (MCFs) which are used for data transmission and seed distribution. The nodes that connect the data transmission and seed distribution layers contain an OFC that may be operated in master or slave mode to provide carriers both for modulation and local oscillators for coherent detection. Nodes are able to switch, amplify, split, and regenerate the seed lightwave for full network distribution over large areas. Using OFCs with 25 GHz spacing covering the C- and L-bands, we experimentally investigate a range of scenarios compatible with metro or inter-data-center network architectures. These scenarios include single span transmission, bi-directional transmission, and multi-hop seed and data transmission including seed amplification, splitting, and regeneration with laser injection locking within network nodes, and a maximum transmission distance of 130 km. We show that MCF seed and data distribution with spatial-switching enables identical network-wide transceiver combs with the potential for reducing the complexity of digital signal processing as well as significant hardware sharing. Data-rates of approximately 100 Tb/s/core and 600 Tb/s per fiber are measured showing the potential of this architecture for high-capacity networking with OFCs replacing hundreds of transmitter and local oscillator lasers in each node.
Lightweight super-resolution multimode fiber imaging with regularized linear regression
Authors: Lipp Maximilian , Li Wei , Abrashitova Ksenia , Forré Patrick , Amitonova Lyubov V.
Published: March 2024

Super-resolution multimode fiber imaging provides the means to image samples quickly with compact and flexible setups finding many applications from biology and medicine to material science and nanolithography. Typically, fiber-based imaging systems suffer from low spatial resolution and long measurement times. State-of-the-art computational approaches can achieve fast super-resolution imaging through a multimode fiber probe but currently rely on either per-sample optimised priors or large data sets with subsequent long training and image reconstruction times. This unfortunately hinders any real-time imaging applications. Here we present an ultimately fast non-iterative algorithm for compressive image reconstruction through a multimode fiber. The proposed approach helps to avoid many constraints by determining the prior of the target distribution from a simulated set and solving the under-determined inverse matrix problem with a mathematical closed-form solution. We have demonstrated theoretical and experimental evidence for enhanced image quality and sub-diffraction spatial resolution of the multimode fiber optical system.
Spatial wavefront shaping with a multipolar-resonant metasurface for structured illumination microscopy [Invited]
Authors: Roy Tamal , Brown Peter T. , Shepherd Douglas P. , Poulikakos Lisa V.
Published: March 2024

Structured illumination microscopy (SIM) achieves superresolution in fluorescence imaging through patterned illumination and computational image reconstruction, yet current methods require bulky, costly modulation optics and high-precision optical alignment, thus hindering the widespread implementation of SIM. To address this challenge, this work demonstrates how nano-optical metasurfaces, rationally designed to tailor the far-field optical wavefront at sub-wavelength dimensions, hold great potential as ultrathin, single-surface, all-optical wavefront modulators for SIM. We computationally demonstrate this principle with a multipolar-resonant metasurface composed of silicon nanostructures that generate versatile optical wavefronts in the far field upon variation of the polarization or angle of incident light. Algorithmic optimization is performed to identify the seven most suitable illumination patterns for SIM generated by the metasurface based on three key criteria. We quantitatively demonstrate that multipolar-resonant metasurface SIM (mrm-SIM) achieves resolution gain that is comparable to conventional methods by applying the seven optimal metasurface-generated wavefronts to simulated fluorescent objects and reconstructing the objects using proximal gradient descent. Notably, we show that mrm-SIM achieves these resolution gains with a far-field illumination pattern that circumvents complex equipment and alignment requirements of comparable methodologies. The work presented here paves the way for a metasurface-enabled experimental simplification of structured illumination microscopy.
Stellar Aberration: Research on the Propagation of Light
Authors: Yuan Tony
Published: March 2024

In astronomy, stellar aberration refers to the apparent visual displacement of celestial objects due to the variation in the observer's motion velocity relative to their true positions. This phenomenon is primarily caused by the periodic changes in the Earth's orbital velocity, resulting in the observer perceiving periodic variations in the positions of stars throughout the year. To investigate this phenomenon further, it is necessary to study whether there are changes in the propagation path of light as it enters the Earth from space and identify the factors that influence the path of light. By doing so, we can uncover the underlying physical mechanisms behind stellar aberration. This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of stellar aberration but also provides crucial foundations for accurately measuring celestial positions and interpreting experimental observational data.
Narrowed gene functions and enhanced transposon activity are associated with high tolerance to ocean acidification in a juvenile subarctic crustacean
Authors: Spencer Laura H. , Long William Christopher , Spies Ingrid B. , Nichols Krista M. , Foy Robert J.
Published: March 2024

Ocean acidification (OA) threatens marine crustaceans, particularly those at high latitudes where conditions are rapidly changing. Red king crab (RKC) support important fisheries in Alaskan waters. RKC early life stages are sensitive to OA when exposure occurs as embryos and juveniles. However, in a supporting study, RKC were surprisingly tolerant of varying OA conditions (pH 7.5, 7.8, & 8.0) when reared long-term from larval hatching to the first crab stage (C1). Here, we examined gene expression in the C1 juveniles to characterize transcriptional activity of these OA-tolerant crabs. Expression of nearly half of all genes (44%) correlated with OA treatment, suggesting a strong molecular response to OA, contrary to the phenotypic results. Downregulated functions were numerous in response to OA, and included reduced energy production, biosynthesis, immune function, and notably lipid and carbohydrate metabolic processes, which suggest a shift in metabolic strategy to protein catabolism, possibly to reduce CO2 production and facilitate acid/base regulation. Only a handful of functions were enriched in OA-induced genes, which were related to transcription regulation, control of growth and cell death, and signaling activity. Transposon activity was high in OA-reared crab, many of which were upregulated at consistent levels, suggesting that transposon mobilization may be a component of the RKC OA-response system. Genetic composition did not differ among OA treatments indicating that transcriptional differences in OA-reared crab were more likely attributed to phenotypic plasticity than selective mortality. Our results suggest that OA-reared RKC have a narrowed, possibly optimized, set of gene functions that enables OA-tolerance through the early juvenile stage. OA-exposure from hatch may benefit RKC and related species by “hardening” them against OA through physiological reprogramming. Future studies should test OA-hardened crabs in additional challenges, as metabolic and immune limitations may ultimately make them more vulnerable to infection or secondary stressors.
HIV stigma and other barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake among Georgian people living with HIV/AIDS: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Zurashvili Tamar , Chakhaia Tsira , King Elizabeth J. , DeHovitz Jack , Djibuti Mamuka
Published: March 2024

We conducted a study in Georgia to examine behavioral insights and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake among people living with HIV (PLWH). Between December 2021-July 2022, we collected quantitative data to evaluate participants’ demographics, COVID-19 knowledge, attitude, perception, and HIV stigma as potential covariates for being vaccinated against COVID-19. We conducted a multivariate analysis to define the factors independently associated with COVID-19 vaccination among PLWH. We collected qualitative data to explore individual experiences of their positive or negative choices, main barriers, HIV stigma, and preferences for receiving vaccination. Of the total 85 participants of the study, 52.9% were vaccinated; 61.2% had concerns with the disclosure of HIV status at the vaccination site. Those who believed they would have a severe form of COVID-19 were more likely to be vaccinated (OR = 23.8; 95% CI: 5.1–111.7). The association stayed significant after adjusting for sex, age, education level, living area, health care providers’ unfriendly attitudes, and their fear of disclosing HIV status at vaccination places. Based on the qualitative study, status disclosure was a significant barrier to receiving care; therefore, PLWH prefer to receive COVID-19 vaccination integrated in HIV services. Conclusions: In this study, around half of the participants were not vaccinated against COVID-19. The main reasons for not being vaccinated included stigma, misleading health beliefs, and low awareness about COVID-19. An integrated service delivery model may improve vaccination uptake among PLWH in Georgia.
Treatments and interventions addressing chronic somatic pain in torture survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Oren Tanzilya , Ercanli Nihan , Maayan Omri , Tham Samantha , Wright Drew , Kaur Gunisha
Published: March 2024

Torture survivors experience chronic, somatic pain that may be exacerbated by environmental, social, and structural factors that extend beyond immediate traumatic events and diagnoses. We conducted a systematic review of research describing the types and efficacy of treatments for chronic somatic pain in a global population of torture survivors. In this systematic review, we searched Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE (1974 to present), and PubMed. We used all appropriate controlled vocabulary and keywords for interventions and treatments for chronic somatic pain in torture survivors. The population included survivors of torture of any age and in any country. Outcomes included pain relief, pain intensity, distress level, and quality of life. Four authors participated in screening, full-text review, and quality assessment, with each title and abstract being independently reviewed by two authors. This study is reported according to the PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO. We included six pre-post intervention studies and four pilot or modified randomized controlled trials (RCTs), for a total of ten studies included in the analysis. Different combinations of interventions targeted pain reduction in refugees, the majority of whom were torture survivors as the primary (n = 1) or secondary (n = 9) outcome. Sample sizes varied from eight to 470 participants. We identified three main types of interventions: multimodal combined, manual therapy, and specific types of talk therapy. Five studies demonstrated positive outcomes on pain and its intensity, three reported no effect, and two had mixed outcomes. Pain in torture survivors is often considered a symptom secondary to mental health illness and not targeted directly. Instead, combined interventions are mainly directed at posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Most studies noted promising preliminary results and plans to conduct RCTs to increase the reproducibility and quality of their pilot data.
Social-media based Health Education plus Exercise Programme (SHEEP) to improve muscle function among community-dwelling young-old adults with possible sarcopenia in China: A study protocol for intervention development
Authors: Shi Ya , Stanmore Emma , McGarrigle Lisa , Todd Chris
Published: March 2024

Possible sarcopenia refers to low muscle strength. Prevalence of possible sarcopenia is estimated to be significantly higher in community-dwelling older adults than that of confirmed or severe sarcopenia. However, there are currently far fewer non-pharmacological intervention strategies for possible sarcopenia than for sarcopenia in the community. Meanwhile, one type of non-pharmacological intervention in sarcopenic area, health education, is under-researched, and older people’s awareness about sarcopenia is extremely low, necessitating an immediate dissemination tool for prevention. Social media may be a potential, scalable, low-cost tool for this. This study protocol outlines how a social media-based multicomponent intervention will be co-designed with stakeholders to address this evidence gap. Guided by the Medical Research Council’s framework, the proposed research covers two phases that employ a co-design approach to develop a theory-based multicomponent intervention to increase sarcopenia prevention in the community. The participants will be recruited from young-old adults (60~69) with possible sarcopenia in the community of Changsha, China. Maximum sample size will be 45 participants in total, with 18~25 participants in the development phase and 15~20 participants in the pre-test phase. During two rounds of focus groups with older adults, a social-media based intervention strategy will be developed from a theory-based conceptual model and an initial intervention plan formulated by the research group. After this, there will be a three-week pre-test phase, followed by a semi-structured interview to further modify the theory-based conceptual model and the social-media based intervention strategy. The focus of the data analysis will be on thematic analysis of qualitative data primarily derived from the group interview and the semi-structured interview with key stakeholders.
Developing medical simulations for opioid overdose response training: A qualitative analysis of narratives from responders to overdoses
Authors: Edwards G. Franklin , Mierisch Cassandra , Mutcheson Brock , Strauss Allison , Coleman Keel , Horn Kimberly , Parker Sarah Henrickson
Published: March 2024

Medical simulation offers a controlled environment for studying challenging clinical care situations that are difficult to observe directly. Overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND) programs aim to train potential rescuers in responding to opioid overdoses, but assessing rescuer performance in real-life situations before emergency medical services arrive is exceedingly complex. There is an opportunity to incorporate individuals with firsthand experience in treating out-of-hospital overdoses into the development of simulation scenarios. Realistic overdose simulations could provide OEND programs with valuable tools to effectively teach hands-on skills and support context-sensitive training regimens. In this research, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 individuals experienced in responding to opioid overdoses including emergency department physicians, first responders, OEND program instructors, and peer recovery specialists. Two coders conducted qualitative content analysis using open and axial thematic coding to identify nuances associated with illicit and prescription opioid overdoses. The results are presented as narrative findings complemented by summaries of the frequency of themes across the interviews. Over 20 hours of audio recording were transcribed verbatim and then coded. During the open and axial thematic coding process several primary themes, along with subthemes, were identified, highlighting the distinctions between illicit and prescription opioid overdoses. Distinct contextual details, such as locations, clinical presentations, the environment surrounding the patient, and bystanders’ behavior, were used to create four example simulations of out-of-hospital overdoses. The narrative findings in this qualitative study offer context-sensitive information for developing out-of-hospital overdose scenarios applicable to simulation training. These insights can serve as a valuable resource, aiding instructors and researchers in systematically creating evidence-based scenarios for both training and research purposes.
Topological defects in self-assembled patterns of mesenchymal stromal cells in vitro are predictive attributes of condensation and chondrogenesis
Authors: Makhija Ekta , Zheng Yang , Wang Jiahao , Leong Han Ren , Othman Rashidah Binte , Ng Ee Xien , Lee Eng Hin , Kellogg Lisa Tucker , Lee Yie Hou , Yu Hanry , Poon Zhiyong , Van Vliet Krystyn J.
Published: March 2024

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are promising therapeutic agents for cartilage regeneration, including the potential of cells to promote chondrogenesis in vivo. However, process development and regulatory approval of MSCs as cell therapy products benefit from facile in vitro approaches that can predict potency for a given production run. Current standard in vitro approaches include a 21 day 3D differentiation assay followed by quantification of cartilage matrix proteins. We propose a novel biophysical marker that is cell population-based and can be measured from in vitro monolayer culture of MSCs. We hypothesized that the self-assembly pattern that emerges from collective-cell behavior would predict chondrogenesis motivated by our observation that certain features in this pattern, namely, topological defects, corresponded to mesenchymal condensations. Indeed, we observed a strong predictive correlation between the degree-of-order of the pattern at day 9 of the monolayer culture and chondrogenic potential later estimated from in vitro 3D chondrogenic differentiation at day 21. These findings provide the rationale and the proof-of-concept for using self-assembly patterns to monitor chondrogenic commitment of cell populations. Such correlations across multiple MSC donors and production batches suggest that self-assembly patterns can be used as a candidate biophysical attribute to predict quality and efficacy for MSCs employed therapeutically for cartilage regeneration.
From opt-out to opt-in consent for secondary use of medical data and residual biomaterial: An evaluation using the RE-AIM framework
Authors: Lutomski Jennifer E. , Manders Peggy
Published: March 2024

Background

Patient records, imaging, and residual biomaterial from clinical procedures are crucial resources for medical research. In the Netherlands, consent for secondary research has historically relied on opt-out consent. For ethical-legal experts who purport passive consent undermines patient autonomy, opt-in consent (wherein affirmative action is required) is seen as the preferred standard. To date, there is little empirical research exploring patient feasibility, organizational consequences, and the potential risks for research based on secondary data. Thus, we applied the RE-AIM framework to evaluate the impact of migrating from an opt-out to an opt-in consent process.

Methods

This evaluation was carried out in Radboud University Medical Center, a large tertiary hospital located in the southeast of the Netherlands. All non-acute, mentally competent patients ≥16 years of age registered between January 13, 2020 and June 30, 2023 were targeted (N = 101,437). In line with the RE-AIM framework, individual and organizational consequences were evaluated across five domains: reach, efficacy, adoption, implementation, and maintenance.

Results

101,437 eligible patients were approached of whom 66,214 (65.3%) consented, 8,059 (7.9%) refused consent and 27,164 (26.8%) had no response. Of the 74,273 patients with a response, 89.1% consented to secondary use. The migration to an opt-in consent system was modestly successful; yet notably, differential response patterns by key sociodemographic characteristics were observed. Adaptions to the process flow improved its effectiveness and resulted in a reasonable response over time. Implementation was most affected by budgetary restraints, thus impeding the iterative approach which could have further improved domain outcomes.

Conclusion

This evaluation provides an overview of logistical and pragmatic issues encountered when migrating from opt-out to opt-in consent. Response bias remains a major concern. Though not always directly transferable, these lessons can be broadly used to inform other health care organizations of the potential advantages and pitfalls of an opt-in consent system.
Self-reported factors associated with community ambulation after stroke: The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Barclay Ruth , Webber Sandra C. , Ripat Jacquie , Nowicki Scott , Tate Robert
Published: March 2024

Community ambulation is frequently limited for people with stroke. It is, however, considered important to people with stroke. The objectives were to identify factors associated with self-reported community ambulation in Canadians aged 45+ with stroke and to identify factors associated with community ambulation specific to Canadian males and to Canadian females with stroke. Data were utilized from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging Tracking Cohort. Multivariate logistic regression models were developed for community ambulation. Mean age was 68 (SE 0.5) years (45% female). In the final community ambulation model (n = 855), factors associated with being less likely to ‘walk outdoors sometimes or often’ included difficulty or being unable to walk 2–3 blocks (decreased endurance) vs. no difficulty. Being more likely to walk outdoors was associated with ‘better weather’ months and being 55–64 years of age vs 75–85. Differences were noted between the models of only males and only females. Decreased walking endurance is associated with a decreased likelihood of walking in the community—a factor that can be addressed by rehabilitation professionals and in community based programs.
Green R & D investment, ESG reporting, and corporate green innovation performance
Authors: Rauf Fawad , Wanqiu Wang , Naveed Khwaja , Zhang Yanqiu
Published: March 2024

Given the contradictory empirical evidence on the relationship between green R&D expenditure and corporate Green Innovation performance (GIP), The present research study is a distinctive investigation into the moderating impacts of ESG reporting on this relationship. We utilized a data collection of 3,846, firm-year observations of A-share listed firms in China from 2016 to 2022 from CSMAR and Bloomberg databases. The firm’s Corporate GIP is assessed and measured by looking at the total quantity of green patents. Lastly, models with multiple regression analyses and fixed effects were employed. The findings show that ESG reporting has a positive and significant impact on the association between corporate GIP and green R&D expenditure, implying its compensating and supportive function in the form of green signals in green outputs. This research could help executives and lawmakers, especially in developing countries to build innovative environmental strategies for business sustainability.
An analysis of training load in highly trained female football players
Authors: K. Winther Andreas , Baptista Ivan , Pedersen Sigurd , Brito João , B. Randers Morten , Johansen Dag , Pettersen Svein Arne
Published: March 2024

This observational study aimed to analyze external training load in highly trained female football players, comparing starters and non-starters across various cycle lengths and training days. Method: External training load [duration, total distance [TD], high-speed running distance [HSRD], sprint distance [SpD], and acceleration- and deceleration distance [AccDecdist] from 100 female football players (22.3 ± 3.7 years of age) in the Norwegian premier division were collected over two seasons using STATSports APEX. This resulted in a final dataset totaling 10498 observations after multiple imputation of missing data. Microcycle length was categorized based on the number of days between matches (2 to 7 days apart), while training days were categorized relative to match day (MD, MD+1, MD+2, MD-5, MD-4, MD-3, MD-2, MD-1). Linear mixed modeling was used to assess differences between days, and starters vs. non-starters. Results: In longer cycle lengths (5–7 days between matches), the middle of the week (usually MD-4 or MD-3) consistently exhibited the highest external training load (~21–79% of MD TD, MD HSRD, MD SpD, and MD AccDecdist); though, with the exception of duration (~108–120% of MD duration), it remained lower than MD. External training load was lowest on MD+2 and MD-1 (~1–37% of MD TD, MD HSRD, MD SpD, MD AccDecdist, and ~73–88% of MD peak speed). Non-starters displayed higher loads (~137–400% of starter TD, HSRD, SpD, AccDecdist) on MD+2 in cycles with 3 to 7 days between matches, with non-significant differences (~76–116%) on other training days. Conclusion: Loading patterns resemble a pyramid or skewed pyramid during longer cycle lengths (5–7 days), with higher training loads towards the middle compared to the start and the end of the cycle. Non-starters displayed slightly higher loads on MD+2, with no significant load differentiation from MD-5 onwards.
Selection of presale models for innovative products considering channel preferences and valuation differences
Authors: Jiang Manman , Qin Liping , Zuo Wenjin , Hu Qiang
Published: March 2024

To reduce financial pressure and operational risk, and improve match between supply and demand, an increasing number of enterprises are adopting presales to launch new products. In this context, this paper investigates three presale models for innovative products, namely, the no-presale model, the manufacturer presale model and the retailer presale model. A Hotelling model is used to describe the impact of channel preferences and valuation differences on the two-stage competition between innovative products. Aiming at evaluating the purchase behavior of consumers under three presale modes, a game optimization model is established to analyze the presale decision problem for innovative products under different presale entities. The research shows that: (1) Compared with no-presale, presales can help enterprises obtain more profits. The overall profit of the supply chain is optimal under the retailer presale mode. (2) When the difference in channel preferences is small, the manufacturer obtains the greatest profit by choosing the direct presale model. In contrast, the selection of different presale entities has a significant impact on product sales and supply chain enterprise profits. At this point, the manufacturer should choose the retailer presale model. (3) When the product valuation discount is high, the manufacturer can increase the spot and wholesale prices to induce consumers to choose the presale method to purchase the product. In the opposite situation, the manufacturer should lower the presale price to improve the presale utility of consumers and encourage them to participate in the presale. These conclusions provide more targeted suggestions for enterprises to formulate presale strategies, which can help them grasp market demand and improve market competitiveness.
Construct validation and measurement invariance of the Parasocial Relationships in Social Media survey
Authors: Boyd Austin T. , Rocconi Louis M. , Morrow Jennifer Ann
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the construct validity and measurement invariance of the Parasocial Relationships in Social Media (PRISM) survey which was designed to provide researchers with a valid and reliable tool for measuring parasocial relationships developed in a social media context. A confirmatory factor analysis indicated the survey provides an adequate measure of parasocial relationships with online, social media celebrities, replicating the factor structure found by Boyd and colleagues when they developed PRISM and providing evidence of the construct validity of the survey. Additionally, scalar measurement invariance was achieved which supports the survey’s ability to compare parasocial relationships across different social media platforms.
Effect of compassion fatigue on emotional labor in female nurses: Moderating effect of self-compassion
Authors: Chu Li-Chuan
Published: March 2024

Emotional labor is common in nursing but may be affected by the mental state of nurses. This study explored the effect of compassion fatigue on emotional labor and whether self-compassion moderates this effect of compassion fatigue. Methods: A two-stage survey design with a convenience sample. Participants were female nursing staff recruited from emergency departments, intensive care units, ward nursing units, and outpatient departments of medical centers, regional hospitals, and district hospitals in Taiwan. A total of 300 questionnaire copies in each of the first and second stages were distributed, and 272 pairs of responses were retrieved (valid response rate = 91%). The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were tested, and confirmatory factor analysis was conducted with AMOS 21. The proposed hypotheses were verified using hierarchical regression conducted with SPSS version 25.0. Results: This study revealed that compassion fatigue positively predicted surface acting (β = 0.12, p < 0.05) and negatively predicted deep acting (β = −0.18, p < 0.01) and expression of genuine emotions (β = −0.31, p < 0.01). In addition, self-compassion negatively moderates the relationships between compassion fatigue and surface acting (β = −0.12, p < 0.05), and positively moderates the relationships between compassion fatigue and expression of genuine emotions (β = 0.15, p < 0.01). Conclusions: To avoid excessive consumption of emotional resources, nurses with high compassion fatigue may employ surface acting by engaging in emotional labor without making an effort to adjust their feelings. Nurses need also be sympathized with, and such sympathy can come from hospitals, supervisors, colleagues, and, most crucially, the nurses themselves. Hospital executives should propose improvement strategies that can prevent the compassion fatigue on nurses, such as improving nurses’ self-compassion.
A pilot randomised controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of the MaTerre180’ participatory tool including a serious game versus an intervention including carbon footprint awareness-raising on behaviours among academia members in France
Authors: Teran-Escobar Claudia , Becu Nicolas , Champollion Nicolas , Gratiot Nicolas , Hingray Benoît , Panthou Gérémy , Ruin Isabelle
Published: March 2024

Background

Activities embedded in academic culture (international conferences, field missions) are an important source of greenhouse gas emissions. For this reason, collective efforts are still needed to lower the carbon footprint of Academia. Serious games are often used to promote ecological transition. Nevertheless, most evaluations of their effects focus on changes in knowledge and not on behaviour. The main objectives of this study are to 1) Evaluate the feasibility of a control and an experimental behaviour change intervention and, 2) Evaluate the fidelity (the extent to which the implementation of the study corresponds to the original design) of both interventions.

Methods

People employed by a French research organisation (N = 30) will be randomised to one of the two arms. The experimental arm consists in a 1-hour group discussion for raising awareness about climate change, carrying out a carbon footprint assessment and participating to a serious game called “Ma terre en 180 minutes.” The control arm consists of the same intervention (1h discussion + carbon footprint assessment) but without participating to the serious game. On two occasions over one month, participants will be asked to fill in online surveys about their behaviours, psychological constructs related to behaviour change, sociodemographic and institutional information. For every session of intervention, the facilitators will assess task completion, perceived complexity of the tasks and the perceived responsiveness of participants. Descriptive statistics will be done to analyse percentages and averages of the different outcomes.

Discussion

Ma-terre EVAL pilot study is a 1-month and a half pilot randomised controlled trial aiming to evaluate the feasibility and the fidelity of a 24-month randomised controlled trial. This study will provide more information on the levers and obstacles to reducing the carbon footprint among Academia members, so that they can be targeted through behaviour change interventions or institutional policies.
A szociálisprobléma-megoldás, a megküzdési stratégiák és az asszertív kommunikáció jellemzői 5. és 7. osztályosok körében
Authors: Balogh-Pécsi Anett
Published: March 2024

A vizsgálat célja a szociálisprobléma-megoldás, a megküzdési stratégiák és az asszertív kommunikáció jellemzőinek feltárása volt 5. osztályos és 7. osztályos tanulók körében (N = 378). A kommunikációt az Assertiveness Questionnaire (AQ, Gaumer Erickson et al., 2016), a szociálisprobléma-megoldást a Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised (SPSI-R, D'Zurilla et al., 2002), a megküzdési stratégiákat pedig a Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WCQ, Folkmann & Lazarus, 1988) segítségével vizsgáltuk. Az eredmények alapján a három szociális területen többnyire szignifikáns különbségek vannak az 5. és a 7. évfolyamosok között. A negatív problémaorientáció gyakoribb az idősebb tanulók körében, és az életkori különbségen túlmenően számos olyan terület van, ahol a fiúk és a lányok értékei még a fiatalabb tanulók körében is különböznek (pl. a lányok körében gyakoribb a konfrontáció, a fiúk körében az elkerülés). Az eredmények a korábbinál árnyaltabb képet adnak a fiúk problémamegoldásáról, kommunikációjáról és ezek kapcsolatáról.

Elemzésünk eredményei alapján megállapítható, hogy a kérdőívek alkalmazásával nyert adatok alkalmasak tudományos igényű következtetések levonására.
Is Direct Decompression Necessary for Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF)? A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Direct and Indirect Decompression With LLIF in Selected Patients
Authors: Limthongkul Worawat , Thanapura Chayapong , Jitpakdee Khanathip , Praisarnti Pakawas , Kotheeranurak Vit , Yingsakmongkol Wicharn , Tanasansomboon Teerachat , Singhatanadgige Weerasak
Published: March 2024

Objective: To compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes following lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) between direct and indirect decompression in the treatment of patients with degenerative lumbar diseases.Methods: Patients who underwent single-level LLIF were randomized into 2 groups: direct decompression (group D) and indirect decompression (group I). Clinical outcomes including the Oswestry Disability index and visual analogue scale of back and leg pain were collected. Radiographic outcomes including cross-sectional area (CSA) of thecal sac, disc height, foraminal height, foraminal area, fusion rate, segmental, and lumbar lordosis were measured.Results: Twenty-eight patients who met the inclusion criteria were eligible for the analysis, with a distribution of 14 subjects in each group. The average age was 66.1 years. Postoperatively, significant improvements were observed in all clinical parameters. However, these improvements did not show significant difference between both groups at all follow-up periods. All radiographic outcomes were not different between both groups, except for the increase in CSA which was significantly greater in group D (77.73 ± 20.26 mm2 vs. 54.32 ± 35.70 mm2, p = 0.042). Group I demonstrated significantly lower blood loss (68.13 ± 32.06 mL vs. 210.00 ± 110.05 mL, p < 0.005), as well as shorter operative time (136.35 ± 28.07 minutes vs. 182.18 ± 42.67 minutes, p = 0.002). Overall complication rate was not different.Conclusion: Indirect decompression through LLIF results in comparable clinical improvement to LLIF with additional direct decompression over 1-year follow-up period. These findings suggest that, for an appropriate candidate, direct decompression in LLIF might not be necessary since the ligamentotaxis effect achieved through indirect decompression appears sufficient to relieve symptoms while diminishing blood loss and operative time.
Navigation-Guided/Robot-Assisted Spinal Surgery: A Review Article
Authors: Lee Young-Seok , Cho Dae-Chul , Kim Kyoung-Tae
Published: March 2024

The development of minimally invasive spinal surgery utilizing navigation and robotics has significantly improved the feasibility, accuracy, and efficiency of this surgery. In particular, these methods provide improved accuracy of pedicle screw placement, reduced radiation exposure, and shortened learning curves for surgeons. However, research on the clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of navigation and robot-assisted spinal surgery is still in its infancy. Therefore, there is limited available evidence and this makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions regarding the long-term benefits of these technologies. In this review article, we provide a summary of the current navigation and robotic spinal surgery systems. We concluded that despite the progress that has been made in recent years, and the clear advantages these methods can provide in terms of clinical outcomes and shortened learning curves, cost-effectiveness remains an issue. Therefore, future studies are required to consider training costs, variable initial expenses, maintenance and service fees, and operating costs of these advanced platforms so that they are feasible for implementation in standard clinical practice.
Proteoglycan Dysfunction: A Common Link Between Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Skeletal Dysplasia
Authors: Sao Kimheak , Risbud Makarand V.
Published: March 2024

Proteoglycans through their sulfated glycosaminoglycans regulate cell-matrix signaling during tissue development, regeneration, and degeneration processes. Large extracellular proteoglycans such as aggrecan, versican, and perlecan are especially important for the structural integrity of the intervertebral disc and cartilage during development. In these tissues, proteoglycans are responsible for hydration, joint flexibility, and the absorption of mechanical loads. Loss or reduction of these molecules can lead to disc degeneration and skeletal dysplasia, evident from loss of disc height or defects in skeletal development respectively. In this review, we discuss the common proteoglycans found in the disc and cartilage and elaborate on various murine models and skeletal dysplasias in humans to highlight how their absence and/or aberrant expression causes accelerated disc degeneration and developmental defects.
Transoral Robotic-Assisted Neurosurgery for Skull Base and Upper Spine Lesions
Authors: Muto Jun , Tateya Ichiro , Nakatomi Hirofumi , Uyama Ichiro , Hirose Yuichi
Published: March 2024

Objective: The application of the da Vinci Surgical System in neurosurgery is limited due to technical difficulties requiring precise maneuvers and small instruments. This study details the advantages and disadvantages of robotics in neurosurgery and the reachable range of the transoral approach to lesions of the skull base and upper cervical spine.Methods: In a cadaver study, the da Vinci Xi robot, lacking haptic feedback, was utilized for sagittal and coronal approaches on 5 heads, facilitating dura suturing in 3, with a 30°-angled drill for bone removal.Results: Perfect exposure of all the nasopharyngeal sites, clivus, sellar, and choana, including the bilateral eustachian tubes, was achieved without any external incisions using this palatal split approach of transoral robotic surgery. The time required to perform a single stitch, knot, and complete single suture in robotic suturing of deep-seated were significantly less compared to manual suturing via the endonasal approach.Conclusion: This is the first report to show the feasibility of suturing the dural defect in deep-seated lesions transorally and revealed that the limit of reach in the coronal plane via a transoral approach with incision of the soft palate is the foramen ovale. This preclinical investigation also showed that the transoral robotic approach is feasible for lesions extending from the sellar to the C2 in the sagittal plane. Refinement of robotic instruments for specific anatomic sites and future neurosurgical studies are needed to further demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of this system in treating benign and malignant skull base lesions.
Granulomatous Hepatitis Treated With Certolizumab Pegol
Authors: Brittan Kevin , Fiedler Alexandra , Scholten Kyle , Songtanin Busara , Manatsathit Shane
Published: March 2024

Idiopathic granulomatous hepatitis is a rare condition characterized by hepatic granulomas with constitutional symptoms such as recurrent fevers, myalgias, and hepatosplenomegaly in the absence of infection or inflammatory disorder. Typical treatment and course of this disease consist of a course of steroids with rapid symptom resolution. However, symptoms may recur when steroids are tapered. In these circumstances, azathioprine, methotrexate, infliximab, and adalimumab have demonstrated good response. In this case, we present a patient who developed antidrug antibodies to infliximab and adalimumab and was the first documented case of this disease to be treated with certolizumab pegol. Our case highlights the novel efficacy of certolizumab pegol for idiopathic granulomatous hepatitis and its role in treating idiopathic granulomatous hepatitis with antidrug antibodies.
Successful Treatment of Refractory Chylous Ascites With Octreotide in a Patient With Decompensated Cirrhosis
Authors: DiBattista Jacob V. , Odenwald Matthew A. , Te Helen
Published: March 2024

Chylous ascites is a rare manifestation of decompensated cirrhosis that is associated with increased short-term mortality. Exclusion of other etiologies must be performed to allow for appropriate management, which itself can be a challenge in the setting of decompensated cirrhosis. We report a case of chylous ascites in a patient with decompensated cirrhosis that was successfully managed with octreotide before liver transplantation.
Using ultrasound shear wave elastography to characterize peripheral nerve mechanics: a systematic review on the normative reference values in healthy individuals
Authors: Neto Tiago , Johannsson Johanna , Andrade Ricardo J.
Published: March 2024

Ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) is an emerging non-invasive imaging technique for peripheral nerve evaluation. Shear wave velocity (SWV), a surrogate measure of stiffness, holds promise as a biomarker for various peripheral nerve disorders. However, to maximize its clinical and biomechanical value, it is important to fully understand the factors that influence nerve SWV measurements. This systematic review aimed to identify the normal range of SWV for healthy sciatic and tibial nerves and to reveal the factors potentially affecting nerve SWV. An electronic search yielded 17 studies eligible for inclusion, involving 548 healthy individuals (age range, 17 to 72 years). Despite very good reliability metrics, the reported SWV values differed considerably across studies for the sciatic (1.9-9.9 m/s) and tibial (2.3-9.1 m/s) nerves. Factors such as measurement proximity to joint regions, limb postures inducing nerve axial stretching, and transducer alignment with nerve fiber orientation were associated with increased SWV. These findings suggest regional-specific nerve mechanical properties, non-linear elastic behaviour, and marked mechanical anisotropy. The impact of age and sex remains unclear and warrants further investigation. These results emphasize the importance of considering these factors when assessing and interpreting nerve SWE. While increased SWV has been linked to pathological changes affecting nerve tissue mechanics, the significant variability observed in healthy nerves highlights the need for standardized SWE assessment protocols. Developing guidelines for enhanced clinical utility and achieving a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence nerve SWE assessments are critical in advancing the field.
Functional Safety of the Hydraulic Drive Control System of a Tracked Undercarriage.
Authors: Dindorf Ryszard Filip
Published: March 2024

In the study, the functional safety of the hydraulic drive control system of a tracked undercarriage used as a mobile platform for a robotic bricklaying system (RBS) was evaluated. Hazards and risks caused by the hydraulic drive control system of the rubber track undercarriage were identified. The schematic diagram and main components of the conventional hydraulic drive control system of a tracked undercarriage are presented. The functions and parameters of the components of the hydraulic power and control system are discussed. In a conventional hydraulic drive, the safety function is fulfilled by failsafe brakes built into the hydraulic motors. In order for RBS to work safely on the construction site, it was necessary to introduce an advanced safe control system for the hydraulic drive of the tracked undercarriage. An advanced safe control system for the hydraulic drive of the tracked undercarriage includes hydraulic control valves with safety functions, a two-channel category 3 safe control architecture, and a safety microcontroller. SISTEMA software tools were utilized to determine safety functions and calculate their specifications. Based on the specifications of the safety function associated with the category of the safety control architecture, the achievable performance level of the hydraulic drive control system for the tracked chassis was determined.