Mechanical Support Research Articles

Post-COVID-19 laryngo-tracheal sequelae: a comprehensive study at a tertiary care centre

BackgroundThe laryngo-tracheal framework is a complex structure responsible for several functions, including phonation, airway formation for breathing, and preventing aspiration. These functions rely on precise neurological and structural coordination. The COVID-19 pandemic primarily affected the lungs and upper respiratory tract, and the patients were classified into mild, moderate, and severe categories to determine appropriate management strategies, including home isolation and hospital admission. Mild cases typically underwent home isolation, while moderate-to-severe cases required hospitalization. Moderate cases often necessitated oxygen supplementation through various means such as oxygen masks, non-rebreather masks, and high-flow nasal cannula, while severe cases required mechanical support and emergency procedures like intubation, continuous positive airway pressure, and tracheostomy. These interventions, along with other factors like viral neuritis and comorbid illnesses, result in various laryngo-tracheal sequelae; in this study, we have tried to look for the laryngo-tracheal sequelae in post-COVID-19 patients.MethodsA sample of 348 patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were identified retrospectively, and their demographics, comorbidities, intubation/tracheostomy, and management data were collected; then all the patients were subjected to video-laryngoscopy, and findings were noted and analysed.Type of studyRetrospective cross-sectional observational study.ObjectivesPrimary objective of the study was to assess the rates of laryngo-tracheal sequelae occurring in post-COVID-19 patients.Secondary objective was to assess the role of various factors along with COVID-19 that have led to the sequelae.ResultsThe study population included 348 participants, with an age distribution ranging from 21 to over 60 years.Post-COVID-19 symptoms were seen in 22.7% of all the patients included out of which hoarseness of voice 32.9%, difficulty in breathing 24.05%, and other related symptoms such as cough 18.98%, foreign body sensation 8.8%, throat irritation 7.5%, throat pain 5.06%, throat dryness 1.2%, and difficulty in swallowing 1.2% of the patients.Majority of our patients had history of hospital admission which was predominant (87.1%) over home isolation (10.3%). Most common comorbidity was diabetes mellitus (DM) (62.4%) along with hypertension.The various findings were noted in 10.1% of total patients included in the study including vocal cord polyps 19.9%, vocal cord paresis 19.9%, vocal cord granulomas 8.5%, vocal nodule 5.7%, and chronic congestion of laryngeal inlet 17.1% of the patients.Significant associations were observed between sequelae and factors such as hospital admission, intubation and tracheostomy, duration of O2 support, and diabetes mellitus.ConclusionsLaryngo-tracheal sequelae are commonly present and are persistent for months after recovery from COVID-19 in hospitalized and intubated/tracheostomized patients due to various factors related to the disease and its treatment.

EVALUATING MATERNAL UNDERSTANDING OF WHO-RECOGNIZED NEONATAL DANGER SIGNS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Neonatal mortality constitutes a significant proportion of under-five mortality worldwide, with over 2.4 million neonatal deaths reported annually. In Pakistan, the neonatal mortality rate (NMR) stands alarmingly high at 42 per 1,000 live births. Neonatal danger signs, such as fever, jaundice, and breathing difficulties, require immediate medical attention but often go unrecognized due to insufficient maternal knowledge. Socioeconomic disparities, cultural practices, and inadequate access to healthcare exacerbate the issue, delaying timely interventions and contributing to preventable neonatal deaths. Objective: The study aims to assess maternal knowledge of neonatal danger signs, identify determinants of adequate awareness, and explore barriers to timely healthcare-seeking practices. Method: A cross-sectional, community-based survey was conducted from August to December 2024 in one urban and one rural district of Sindh, targeting mothers of neonates aged 0–28 days. A structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO Safe Motherhood Toolkit was used to collect data on maternal knowledge, antenatal care (ANC) attendance, and healthcare-seeking behaviors. A multistage random sampling method ensured representativeness, with a sample size of 300 participants. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 25 to identify key predictors of knowledge, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Among 300 mothers, 48.5% demonstrated adequate knowledge of neonatal danger signs. Fever (75%), poor feeding (62%), and jaundice (51%) were the most recognized signs, while hypothermia (18%) and convulsions (12%) were least identified. Maternal education, urban residence, and ANC attendance significantly predicted knowledge levels. Only 57% sought timely medical care, with rural participants reporting financial constraints, transportation challenges, and reliance on traditional healers as primary barriers. Conclusion: Maternal knowledge of neonatal danger signs remains suboptimal, especially in rural areas. Targeted health education programs, improved healthcare access, and financial support mechanisms are essential to enhance neonatal survival and reduce preventable deaths.

Determinants of Cash Holding: A Study on Manufacturing Companies Listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange from 2018 to 2021

This research analyzes the influence of COVID-19, leverage, growth opportunity, net working capital (NWC), dividend, and profitability toward cash holding. The population used is all manufacturing companies recorded on the Indonesian Stock Exchange (IDX) for 2018- 2021. Purposive sampling combined with non-probability sampling was used to determine the research sample, which consisted of 69 manufacturing companies. The research hypothesis was tested using the panel data regression analysis method, namely the Random Impact Model. The research results show that COVID-19, growth opportunity, leverage, NWC, dividend, and profitability impact cash holding. At the same time, it was partially found that COVID-19 had an impact on cash holding, leverage had a significant adverse effect on cash holding, growth opportunity had a negative impact on cash holding, NWC and dividends had an insignificant negative impact on cash holding, and profitability has no significant favorable influence on cash holding. Leverage has a substantial detrimental effect on cash holdings, which suggests that businesses with high levels of leverage are at risk of having liquidity issues. Policymakers may consider providing guidelines or support mechanisms for manufacturing firms to strengthen their financial resilience during uncertain periods

Exploring Afghanistan's Prospective Role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

This article analyzes the prospects of Afghanistan's presence in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Given the increasing importance of this organization in regional and global dynamics, Afghanistan's effective involvement could play a key role in shaping regional economic, security, and political interactions. This research employs qualitative methods and the Delphi strategy to gather and analyze the views of experts and specialists in international politics, regional security, and economics. Data analysis was conducted using the grounded theory method in NVivo software, and the results, based on the Kendall formula, indicate a consensus among experts regarding the significance and challenges of Afghanistan's participation. The research findings suggest that Afghanistan, due to its geostrategic position, rich natural resources, and potential capacities, can serve as a bridge between Central, South, and West Asian countries, thereby strengthening economic and security cooperation within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. However, challenges such as internal instability, economic dependency, and geopolitical pressures from foreign powers pose serious obstacles to Afghanistan's active participation in the organization. According to content analysis, there is a consensus among experts that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, if it enhances its support mechanisms, can provide a suitable platform for bolstering stability and development in Afghanistan. This endeavor requires multilateral cooperation and sustained support from the key members of the organization. The findings of this research can significantly assist policymakers and decision-makers in formulating effective strategies to enhance Afghanistan's role in this organization.

Microbead Encapsulation for Protection of Electronic Components

Abstract This study investigates the application of microbeads as an innovative encapsulation technique to protect electronic components from harsh mechanical strain. Traditional encapsulation methods using hard epoxy provide substantial mechanical support but create thermal expansion mismatch issues, potentially leading to electronic component failure. We explore the use of finely powdered microbeads to achieve protective structures combining stiffness and energy absorption. The research focuses on key variables, including microbead size, microbead roughness, compaction of microbeads, and circuit board mounting in the encapsulation, all of which influence the encapsulation's effectiveness. Experimental setups and testing protocols were developed to assess the performance of various microbead materials under different impact conditions. Results demonstrate that microbead encapsulation significantly reduces strain on circuit boards, minimizing the risk of damage during mechanical shocks. However, challenges remain, such as optimizing microbead characteristics and modeling their behavior within large-scale circuit board assemblies. Despite these challenges, the findings suggest that microbead encapsulation offers a promising alternative to conventional methods, enhancing the durability and reliability of electronic components in high-stress environments.

The Child’s Language System during the Vocabulary Explosion: Individual and Common Trends

A longitudinal diary study on the formation of two young girls’ individual language systems was carried out. In both cases, the general language ability was tracked by considering its key components, including the phonetic, lexical, morphological, and syntactic ones, as well as imitation skills and early metalinguistic awareness. The relation between these components (autonomy or mutual influence) was examined. The MacArthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventories (CDI) were used as an auxiliary tool. The findings of the two case studies were compared with the published results of a systemic analysis based on the extensive MacArthur–Bates-CDI database on various components of general language ability. The comparisons revealed shared and individual language acquisition patterns in the early stages of speech ontogenesis. The obtained data are consistent with those reported in previous research: in the early stage of language acquisition, the speech of the girls was marked by an interaction between the phonetic (articulation of complex three- or four-syllable words), lexical (vocabulary growth), and morphological (learning grammatical categories) components, while the syntactic component progressed relatively autonomously; and then, during the later stage, morphological skills served more as a supportive mechanism that facilitated the construction of grammatically accurate syntactic structures.

Epidemiological Characteristics of Hospitalized Burn Patients-A 10-Year Retrospective Study in a Major Burn Center in Serbia.

Many European countries' epidemiological data on burns were analyzed. This research aimed to analyze the key epidemiological characteristics of hospitalized burn patients in Serbia's major burn unit over 10 years, as well as to create the very first national epidemiological dataset with the basic requirements for future epidemiological studies. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted, and demographic, clinical, and burn characteristics, as well as predictors of mortality, were analyzed. A total of 996 patients were included. The mean age of the population was 54.65 ± 27.15 years. Regarding etiology, flame was the most common (49.0%). Patient comorbidities were noted on admission in 50.1% of cases. The mean % of total burn surface area (TBSA) was 16.89 ± 18.72%. Inhalation injury was confirmed in 7.5% of patients, and a total of 10.3% of patients required mechanical ventilation during hospitalization. The requirement for mechanical ventilation support was the strongest independent predictor of mortality, while other independent predictors of mortality were male gender, higher %TBSA, deep burns, mechanism of injury, an extended total length of stay (LOS), the occurrence of complications during hospitalization, and conservative treatment modalities. Burn injury mortality remains high, and %TBSA, burn depth, mechanical ventilation requirement, inhalation injury, and the presence of comorbidities on admission unfavorably influence mortality rates.

The effect of power-based control on the haemodynamics and valve function of the biventricular assist circulation system.

Biventricular assist devices (BiVAD) are capable of providing mechanical support to the left and right ventricles to improve blood supply in heart failure, thereby maintaining patients' lives and improving their quality of life. But there is evidence that the incidence of aortic valve incompetence and other valvular pathologies is related to BiVAD support. Such as constant speed (CS) control may cause the valve to close completely and lose its normal valve function. The valve function is related to the percentage of valve opening which is approximately 30% of the cardiac cycle. This study developed a power-based control model for BiVAD that could regulate motors' speed by altering the power to satisfy objectives of keeping valve function and restoring physiologic perfusion. The effects of the power-based controller on the hemodynamics and valve function were investigated by simulating BiVAD under constant power and variable power controls. Different heart failure and activity levels were also mimicked under variable power control to obtain the BiVAD's critical parameters and the assist ratios. The results show that the power-based control can help the BiVAD to assist a patient with heart failure, and the power settings should comprehensively consider objectives of valve function and physiologic perfusion.

Mai: A Transformer Based Domain Specific Chatbot for Menstrual Health

Traditional health-seeking behaviors, particularly in menstrual health, are deeply rooted in local languages, sociocultural norms, and religious beliefs. These factors significantly influence women in South Asia and other developing regions, often proving detrimental to their physical and psychological health. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of these challenges, this paper investigates the role of generative domain-specific chatbots as a supportive mechanism to enhance menstrual health-seeking behaviors among South Asian women. Specifically, it aims to create and assess Mai, a conversational agent, which utilizes Roman-Urdu and English models to provide accurate information, thereby contributing to the broader effort of empowering women with knowledge and resources. Due to a lack of conversational data in this domain, our research involves creating a dataset from existing English sources and translating it into Roman Urdu, presenting its own set of challenges. These datasets, specifically curated for this research, addressed a wide range of menstrual health topics. Despite being an English monolingual model, DialoGPT’s transformer architecture produced favorable results when fine-tuned on a Roman Urdu dataset. While the Roman Urdu version occasionally faced challenges with contextual understanding, both models achieved promising results. Automatic evaluation metrics indicated strong performance for Mai compared to baseline models. Likewise, user evaluations yielded average ratings of 4.2 and 4.3 (out of 5) for the Roman Urdu and English chatbots, respectively, and more than half of the medical professionals surveyed expressed willingness to recommend the dialogue system. Overall, our findings highlight the transformative potential of domain-specific dialogue systems in health education, with room for improvement in overcoming cultural and linguistic barriers to women’s health information access.

Exploring EFL Learning Barriers and Support Mechanisms of Indonesian Middle Socio-Economic Status Learners

A learner's EFL learning can be affected by various factors, one of which is socio-economic status (SES), with most Indonesians belonging to the middle SES. This study employs a case study approach and semi-structured interviews to explore the barriers faced by middle SES Indonesians in EFL learning and the potential support mechanisms. The findings reveal three key themes: support from surroundings, access to learning resources, and self-efficacy. Support from surroundings and resource access are interrelated external factors, highlighting the importance of ease of access in the learning environment. Conversely, self-efficacy reflects learners' internal beliefs in their ability to succeed in EFL. The study suggests several support mechanisms, such as providing equitable opportunities for practice, enhancing access to learning materials, and fostering a supportive educational environment. Resources like visual aids, culturally relevant materials, and free language platforms can significantly benefit not only middle SES learners but others as well. Despite these insights, the study has limitations, including reliance on interviews and a small participant pool of four graduates. Future research should utilize multiple instruments and larger, more diverse samples for stronger findings. The insights gained can inform policymakers, educators, and families in enhancing EFL implementation, emphasizing that support should also come from home. Implementing educational policies that address the needs of all socio-economic classes can make learning more relevant and engaging.

Temperature Sensing in Agarose/Silk Fibroin Translucent Hydrogels: Preparation of an Environment for Long-Term Observation.

Environmental changes, such as applied medication, nutrient depletion, and accumulation of metabolic residues, affect cell culture activity. The combination of these factors reflects on the local temperature distribution and local oxygen concentration towards the cell culture scaffold. However, determining the temporal variation of local temperature, independent of local oxygen concentration changes in biological specimens, remains a significant technological challenge. The process of triplet-triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC), performed in a nanoconfined environment with a continuous aqueous phase, appears to be a possible solution to these severe sensing problems. This process generates two optical signals (delayed emitter fluorescence (dF) and residual sensitizer phosphorescence (rPh)) in response to a single external stimulus (local temperature), allowing the application of the ratiometric-type sensing procedure. The ability to incorporate large amounts of sacrificial singlet oxygen scavenging materials, without altering the temperature sensitivity, allows long-term protection against photo-oxidative damage to the sensing moieties. Translucent agarose/silk fibroin hydrogels embedding non-ionic micellar systems containing energetically optimized annihilation couples simultaneously fulfill two critical functions: first, to serve as mechanical support (for further application as a cell culture scaffold); second, to allow tuning of the material response window to achieve a maximum temperature sensitivity better than 0.5 K for the physiologically important region around 36 °C.

Unique ultrastructural organization of human rod photoreceptors

Rod and cone photoreceptor cells are specialized neurons responsible for transforming the information reaching the eyes in the form of photons into the language of neuronal activity. Rods are the most prevalent photoreceptor type, primarily responsible for light detection under conditions of limited illumination. Here we demonstrate that human rods have a morphological organization unique among all described species, whereby the cell soma extends alongside the light-sensitive outer segment compartment to form a structure we have termed the “accessory inner segment.” These structures have two striking features: they are reinforced by a massive microtubular cytoskeleton and contain electron-dense adhesions that mediate their attachment to outer segments. Given that the spacing of human rod photoreceptors is sparser than in most other species, the accessory inner segment likely provides mechanical support to the closely apposed outer segment. This discovery expands our understanding of the human retina and directs future studies of human photoreceptor function in health and disease.

Design and Preparation of Soluble Polyimide Binder With Random Copolymerized Rigid‐Flexible Segments for Lithium Ion Batteries

ABSTRACTBinders play a critical role in the preparation and operation of electrodes in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Developing new binding materials with high affinity to Li ions and resistance to higher voltages was desirable for the practical applications of LIBs. In this work, soluble polyimide binder (PI) with random copolymerized rigid‐flexible segments were synthesized and evaluated as cathode binder for the typical lithium iron phosphate cathode material in terms of cycling performances, rate capability, and electrochemical impedance. By introducing the polar and soft ether segment into the rigid PI chains, the NMP‐soluble PI precursors were obtained. The rigid‐flexible segments in the PI binders work synergistically during the electrochemical process, in which the rigid segments of aromatic units with strong lithiophilic CO group provided the necessary mechanical support and affinity with electrolytes, while the flexible segments endow the high solubility and buffer effect to the volume change during the charge/discharge process. Moreover, the 3,5‐diaminobenzoic acid (DABA) working as the crosslinking unit was introduced during the synthesis and the addition ratios were optimized. The as‐optimized PI binders exhibited superior rate performances and comparable cycling stability when compared with the commercial PVDF binder, demonstrating the great potential for PI binder in the LIBs systems.

Analysis of mechanisms for reducing greenhouse gas emissions implemented in the Russian Federation and in some foreign countries

Subject. The article addresses the climate policy formation as an object of scientific research that requires consideration from the perspective of its detailed synchronization with climate policies implemented in other countries. Objectives. The study aims to review mechanisms for greenhouse gas emissions reduction in Russia and other countries of the world, identify barriers in the implementation of existing support mechanisms, and formulate proposals to eliminate them. Methods. The study draws on scholarly papers and applied research of Russian and foreign scientists in sustainable development, environment protection and climate policy, provisions of international law, legal and methodological acts of Russia. The performed research rests on general principles of scientific approach, including systems, comparative, historical approach, acting as a basis for analysis, synthesis, generalization, classification, and systematization. Results. The study revealed that two types of mechanisms are considered in the world practice that contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, i.e. market and administrative-technical. The mechanisms for greenhouse gas emissions reduction implemented in Russia are generally consisted with those implemented worldwide. Conclusions. Though the mechanisms implemented within the framework of Russia's climate policy and aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are generally consistent with the world practice, the analysis of their implementation indicates a lack of support at the federal and regional levels.

Understanding academic help-seeking among first-generation college students: a phenomenological approach

Seeking academic help is a common practice for students to achieve academic success. Although there are some studies on academic help-seeking, current research has not fully examined this behavior from the perspective of first-generation college students. This study explores how first-generation college students perceive and engage in academic help-seeking, aiming to understand the factors that influence their attitudes and behaviors in seeking academic support. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 participants, guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, then analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The findings are as follows: (1) Positive perception, (2) Negative perception, (3) Social Expectations and Pressures in Help-Seeking, (4) Motivators for Help-Seeking, and (5) Inhibitors for help-seeking. Most students have a favorable view of seeking help, but many associate it with self-doubt and concerns about peers’ opinions. Subjective norms in help-seeking are shaped by social expectations and pressures, with key influences coming from family, teachers, and peers. Motivation to seek help affects understanding academic needs, problem-solving urgency, and confidence. However, there are inhibiting factors such as emotional barriers, perceived independence, and concerns about help effectiveness. This study provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of academic help-seeking among first-generation college students. It highlights their positive attitudes and the multifaceted factors influencing their help-seeking behavior. The insights from this study are critical to developing targeted educational approaches and support mechanisms to assist first-generation college students in their academic endeavors more effectively.

Obesity and Different Effect Between Exercise and Diet for Weight Loss

The worldwide increase in obesity has become a significant public health issue, linked to a range of chronic illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancer. This study investigates the effectiveness of combined dietary and exercise interventions in promoting weight loss, drawing on a systematic literature review and case analysis of recent peer-reviewed research. By examining various dietary approachesincluding low-carbohydrate, Mediterranean, and calorie-restricted dietsalongside different exercise modalities such as aerobic training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), this research aims to identify the optimal strategies for weight management. Findings indicate that individuals participating in combined interventions experience significantly greater weight loss and improvements in metabolic health compared to those following diet or exercise regimens alone. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of personalized interventions that consider individual preferences and psychological factors, suggesting that integrating social support mechanisms and technological tools can enhance adherence and long-term success. The results emphasize the need for comprehensive weight management strategies that address the interplay of dietary and exercise components, psychological support, and social influences to effectively combat obesity and promote overall health.

Exploring cooking fuel choices among Ghanaian women of reproductive age: A socio-economic analysis from a statistical mechanics perspective.

Access to clean and efficient cooking fuel is crucial for promoting good health, safeguarding the environment, and driving economic growth. Despite efforts to promote the adoption of cleaner alternatives, traditional solid fuels such as charcoal and firewood remain prevalent in Ghana. In this study, we utilized a statistical mechanical model as a framework to explore the statistical relationship between socio-economic factors such as educational attainment, wealth status, place of residence, and cooking fuel choices. We analysed data from the Ghana Malaria Indicator Survey (GMIS) conducted in 2019, involving a total of 2,942 women of reproductive age. The findings revealed that 13.77% of participants preferred using LPG fuels for cooking, while 86.23% preferred non-LPG fuels for their cooking needs. The data indicated that among LPG users, 96.54% are educated women of reproductive age, and 3.46% are non-educated women of reproductive age. Among these, 95.31% are non-poor, and 4.69% are poor. Additionally, 21.73% reside in rural areas, while 78.27% live in urban areas. The data also showed that among non-LPG fuel users, 68.70% are educated women of reproductive age, and 31.30% are non-educated women of reproductive age. Among this group, 16.04% are non-poor, and 83.96% are poor. Furthermore, 67.24% reside in rural areas, and 32.76% live in urban areas. Our findings showed that in the absence of social interaction, a woman's wealth status has a relationship to her choice of fuel for cooking. Additionally, women of reproductive age in rural areas with some education demonstrated a significant private incentive (40.12%) to use LPG, implying a positive correlation between education and the use of LPG for cooking. However, when social interactions are considered, factors such as education, wealth status, and place of residence have significant relationships with a woman's decision about fuel choice. The interaction strength among women of reproductive age in urban areas with some education shows a negative estimate (-4.06%), suggesting that there is no significant imitative effect. The study further suggests that urban women of reproductive age who are poor exert a greater influence on their urban counterparts who are not poor when social interaction is incorporated. Women of reproductive age in rural areas with some form of education exert a greater influence on women of reproductive age in rural areas with no form of education. We recommend that the government of Ghana and its stakeholders focus on leveraging the influence of urban poor women and educated rural women through community-led programs and educational campaigns. Financial support mechanisms like microfinance and subsidies, alongside reliable LPG infrastructure, can make access easier for these target groups. Tailored communication strategies, peer-to-peer learning, and collaboration with local institutions are crucial for spreading awareness and encouraging the adoption of LPG.

Experiences of healthcare professionals returning to work post breast cancer diagnosis in China: A descriptive qualitative study

Breast cancer survivors face employment challenges. How to promote BC’s return to work is important for improving their quality of life and promoting recovery. Numerous studies have reported that BC survivors encounter employment challenges due to cognitive limitations, alongside factors. healthcare Professional has a good educational background and a good cognitive level and is also the closest combination of sociocultural tradition and healthcare systems, however, there is a lack of studies on their experience as BC survivors. A descriptive qualitative study was conducted to investigate the experiences of healthcare professionals returning to work following breast cancer diagnosis. 20 doctors and nurses were interviewed face-to-face with a semi-structured interview guide in three municipal hospitals. Four major themes and corresponding sub-themes were extracted from the collected data as follows: (1) Return to Work: Willingness and Conflicts; (2) Cancer Progression Anxiety; (3) Physical and Mental Re-Awareness, including (1) Decreased Physical Ability, (2) Frustration and Diminished Self-Esteem; 4. Reflection and Re-planning, including (1) Past Self-Questioning, (2) Active Life Re-planning, (3) Revitalizing Life’s Value, and (4) Career Changes: Coping and Adapting. This study revealed a positive reintegration into the workforce among participants in China’s healthcare professionals with a notably advanced medical understanding. It implies that, for BC survivors, a combination of rich medical knowledge, a stable work environment, substantial income, and robust support from colleagues and superiors play a positive role in enhancing their adaptability post a breast cancer diagnosis. Additionally, interviewees expressed guilt during sick leave, it was suggested that hospitals implement comprehensive support mechanisms related to leave, acknowledging the imperative need for adequate rest during the treatment period.

Study on Zonal Support Mechanism and the Surrounding Rock Control Technology of Rock Roadway Excavated by TBM in Coal Mine

ABSTRACTTunnel boring machine (TBM) has been increasingly used for excavating rock roadways in coal mines. However, the slower speed of support installation, compared to the cutterhead's fast rock‐breaking capability, limits the overall excavation speed of rock roadways. This study examines the construction of a gas drainage roadway in Shoushan No.1 coal mine using a double‐shield TBM. A mechanical model for TBM excavation was developed, considering the spatial effects of the excavation face. The study identified a zonal support mechanism for the surrounding rock in TBM excavation roadways, it also analyzed the effects of support reaction forces and virtual support forces on the surrounding rock of different zones. A zonal control technology for surrounding rock was proposed and successfully implemented in the field. The results indicate that the strain evolution of the surrounding rock behind the TBM excavation face displays distinct zonal features. Based on this, the study recommends timely support for critical areas of the roadway roof in rapidly deforming zones through localized active primary anchor bolting. In slower deforming zones, secondary active anchor bolting is recommended for the remaining parts of the roadway roof and the side supports. In stable zones, cables anchor bolting support are implemented. A phased control technology system for the zonal management of surrounding rock in TBM excavation roadway was developed, and optimal parameters were determined using numerical simulations. The phased and zonal control technology was successfully applied at Shoushan No. 1 coal mine, achieving a maximum excavation speed of 623 m per month. This study provides valuable insights into the application of rapid excavation technology by TBM under similar conditions.

After Returning to the Rural: The (Un)Sustainable Reintegration of Internal Migrant Workers in China

ABSTRACTThe return of internal migrant workers to rural regions following prolonged periods of employment in cities is an increasingly prominent phenomenon in China. Researchers have examined return migration patterns, but investigating the intricacies of the reintegration process demands more highly sophisticated measurement approaches and warrants deeper empirical investigation. In this study, a comprehensive evaluation framework is designed for assessing reintegration outcomes on three interconnected dimensions: economic re‐engagement, social‐rebonding, and psychological re‐affiliation. By applying this framework to the analysis of data from the 2014 China Labour Force Dynamic Survey, we find that approximately half of returnees meet the defined thresholds for successful reintegration into rural society. There are considerable difficulties associated with economic reintegration, which underscores the need to provide enhanced economic support mechanisms for returning internal migrants. The main socio‐geographical factors contributing to successful reintegration include being in the middle‐to‐late stages of the working age, male gender, living with a spouse, returning with family, having interprovincial migration experience, and extended duration of return. This study enhances the comprehension of the challenges faced by returning migrant workers and provides analytical instruments and perspectives that can be used to deepen the understanding of internal migration issues in China and beyond.