bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Past, present and future of information literacy in Latin America
Authors: Uribe-Tirado Alejandro , Machin-Mastromatteo  , Juan D.
Published: November 2024

This article synthesised the origin, evolution, current state, and future trends of information literacy (IL) in Latin America. This study employed a quantitative and qualitative review of documents published by Latin American authors to map out IL's development in the region, which was structured around four pivotal moments: 1) beginnings (1997-2007), marking the initial phase of IL's introduction and early development in Latin America, characterised by foundational texts and the organisation of critical events that set the stage for IL's growth in the region; 2) advances-positioning (2008-2019) pre-pandemic, it reflects a period of significant growth and establishment of IL, with the emergence of digital platforms, the creation of regional declarations, and the integration of IL into educational curricula, indicating a broader acceptance and institutionalisation of IL practices; 3) main trends (2020-2023), it focuses on the adaptation and innovation in IL practices influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the shift toward critical thinking, addressing misinformation, and integrating IL with other competencies in response to digital advancements; and 4) some perspectives (2024-…), which includes future directions for IL in Latin America, emphasising the need to adapt IL training to new technological realities such as generative artificial intelligence, and proposing IL as a dynamic research area poised for further integration with global educational and societal goals. The article emphasises the necessity of IL's continuous evolution in Latin America, advocating for its adaptation to technological advancements and its critical role in promoting informed citizenship and lifelong learning. Through the lens of these moments, the study offers a comprehensive overview of IL's progression and potential future impact in the region.
Integrating basic artificial intelligence literacy with media and information literacy in higher education
Authors: Ndungu Miriam Wanjiku
Published: November 2024

This paper addresses the question of how to introduce basic artificial intelligence (AI) literacy skills to learners in higher education. It proposes that a feasible approach is to integrate AI literacy components into existing media and information literacy (MIL) programmes. The paper discusses elements of intersection between the two literacies, such as search techniques, evaluation, and responsible use of information. The author posits that the MIL curriculum needs to be updated by enhancing the intersecting elements and adding new concepts such as AI algorithm literacy, data literacy, AI ethics, and limitations of AI technologies. The author argues that libraries are best poised to take on the role of delivering basic AI literacy. To this end, MIL frameworks need to be reviewed, and librarians will be required to obtain additional skills through AI courses, workshops, and participation in communities of practice. Pioneering libraries such as the FIU Libraries (comprising the Green Library and Hubert Library) in Florida, US, and Massachusetts Library Systems are demonstrating that libraries have the capacity to deliver basic AI literacy to higher education learners. The author has analysed existing attempts at mapping AI literacy to the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education and built on these initiatives by mapping suggested new AI literacy-related knowledge practices and dispositions to the relevant frames of the framework. The paper concludes by making a clarion call to librarians to rise to the occasion and revamp existing MIL programs to include basic AI literacy.
Cultivating critical information evaluation through motivational confidence: An exploratory crosswalk analysis
Authors: Dawkins Victoria , LeGrand Samantha
Published: November 2024

From checklists, to processes, to models, information literacy (IL) instructors have sought to better teach students how to evaluate the information they encounter, increasingly through critical information literacy (CIL) pedagogies. CIL engages high-impact pedagogical practices as students direct their learning through dialogue and problem-posing, but there are persistent barriers to implementing CIL pedagogies at scale. Drawing from motivational design can empower librarians to advance CIL and empower students to critically evaluate information. Although many evaluation pedagogies employ general motivational strategies, there is a gap in the literature exploring the application of one specific component of motivation: confidence. This conceptual and exploratory study aims to: 1) determine the connections between motivational design and IL pedagogy, specifically related to confidence-building strategies and critical approaches to evaluating information; and 2) map the integration of confidence-building design and CIL practices to provide suggestions for practical application. The researchers employ a crosswalk analysis to demonstrate how IL instructors can overcome barriers to implement CIL instructional practices through confidence-building design that illuminates students’ abilities to learn and make a meaningful impact. In taking a confidence-building, critical focus to designing evaluation instruction, IL instructors reframe information evaluation as a participatory place for critical questioning, exploration, creative expression, and dialogue.
The early development of information literacy instruction for young people as revealed by six volumes
Authors: Shenton Andrew
Published: November 2024

This paper uses six books to investigate the early history of information literacy (IL) teaching to school-aged young people in the UK. The work was inspired by Neil MacGregor’s Radio Four programme, A History of the World in 100 Objects, which explored humankind’s development via a series of artefacts. In my project, the items were chosen with a view to demonstrating the diverse ways in which information skills were promoted up to the introduction of the National Curriculum in 1989. All the texts selected offer ideas that could directly improve the independent learning of young people; documents that are less practical, such as reviews of the state of the field at the time, lie outside the project’s scope. Although attention is mainly concentrated on the volumes themselves, the profiles of the six works are supported with references to literature that includes other books, reports, articles in professional periodicals and academic papers. My piece concludes by isolating the themes with regard to IL that emerge overall, and looks ahead to some of the changes that would take place in the immediate years to come.
Three shots are better than one: Establishing and evaluating the English library instruction pilot
Authors: McLay Paterson Amy , Mitchell Benjamin , Prentice Stirling , Rennie Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

In an attempt to expand Information Literacy (IL) instruction beyond the one-shot, the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Library established the English Library Instruction Pilot (ELIP) in 2023-2024. Students involved in the project participated in a series of three tutorials. The outcomes of the tutorials were aligned to both their Introduction to Academic Writing (English 1100) class and the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy. In experimenting with the new model, we asked the following questions:

Did the ELIP programme help students succeed in their associated English 1100 courses?
Does more integrated instruction aid in relationship-building between the library and the TRU community?
How can we improve our instruction practices to better meet student needs?

This paper discusses the formation of the programme, the results from our evaluation of it, and reflects on future directions and improvements. Through an examination of student assignments, a faculty feedback survey, and reflective journaling of librarian instructors, we conclude that the programme helped students complete the outcomes of their associated English 1100 class. It also contributed to relationship-building between the library and the university community and helped significantly improve existing teaching practices and materials in the library. The ELIP programme is unique in its departure from both the one-shot and credit course IL models, and we hope that our reflections will encourage other librarians to reflect and experiment with their instructional spaces.
Soundscapes as Cultural Heritage: Lesson Ideas for the Classroom
Authors: Ng Hoon Hong , Tan Marcus Cheng Chye
Published: November 2024

Soundscapes engender historical, cultural, social, and aesthetic meanings through acoustical qualities that reflect a community’s lived experiences. In this article, we propose music lesson ideas that help students appreciate and embrace their sociocultural heritage—by creating, performing, and listening to soundscapes that are representative of their locality. These lesson ideas are guided by pedagogical imperatives drawn from key soundscape literature, which reveals sounds as being powerful in sculpting culture and identity as well as impacting ways of knowing. Activities in the lessons serve to develop students’ aurality and their understanding of the sociocultural connotations of sound. The learnings gained may supplement more traditional musical skills and knowledge acquisition in the music classroom.
Using Chamber Music and Reflection to Foster Student Engagement in Orchestra
Authors: Troglauer April , Morrison Anna
Published: November 2024

How can orchestra teachers diversify curricula to engage young musicians in project-based learning experiences that build their musicianship and confidence? This action research study explores how the author fostered project-based learning experiences that incorporated student reflection and assessment within chamber music ensembles. By incorporating opportunities for students to build skills through chamber music ensembles, music teachers can foster students’ engagement, develop students’ confidence, and improve large-ensemble performances. Included as well are recommendations for implementing a chamber music unit that incorporates structured student reflections and authentic assessment.
Disparities in Health and Oral Health Behaviors Among Adolescents from Multicultural Families in South Korea
Authors: Kwak Seon-Hui , Ma Deuk-Sang
Published: November 2024

This study analyzed changes over time in order to identify disparities in health and oral health behaviors among adolescents from multicultural families residing in Korea. This was a cross-sectional analysis of secondary data utilizing raw data from 2011 to 2022 from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a statistical dataset provided by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. The variables included demographic characteristics, socioeconomic characteristics, health behavior (diet, alcohol consumption, smoking), and oral health behavior (toothbrushing behavior, preventive care behavior, oral symptom experience, and school-based oral health education experience). In comparison to non-multicultural adolescents, multicultural adolescents were more likely to perceive their oral health behavior as unhealthy and less likely to engage in toothbrushing after lunch. In addition, multicultural adolescents had higher rates of soda intake and smoking experience than non-multicultural adolescents. During the period between 2011 and 2022, multicultural adolescents had less experience of dental sealants and scaling than non-multicultural adolescents. The disparities in health status and oral health behavior between the 2 groups persisted over a 12-year period. It was necessary to develop active interventions to reduce health and oral health disparities between multicultural and non-multicultural adolescents.
Reversing climate leadership: an ethnographic account of the European Union’s U-turn on loss and damage at COP 27 in Sharm el-Sheikh
Authors: Kolmaš Michal
Published: November 2024

The European Union was among the first from the Global North to accept the Global South’s proposal to construct a Loss and Damage fund at the UNFCCC’s Conference of Parties in Sharm el-Sheikh in 2022. The establishment of this fund has, however, long been a red line for the EU’s negotiation strategy. So why did the EU accept the proposal, even though it remained convinced that the existing infrastructure was better suited to deal with the issue? Building on the literature of the EU’s leadership in climate negotiations, and an ethnographic account of my personal experience as a EU delegate at the COP, I argue that the EU accepted the proposal because of three interrelated reasons: First, it strived not to be seen as an actor blocking the negotiations after the failure of such a proposal at COP in Glasgow. Second, the EU became aware that several Umbrella Group members were willing to support the fund and did not want to be left behind. Third, the EU traded the establishment of the fund for a limited support for several of its own priorities. These findings reverse the understanding of climate leadership. Instead of treating it as a dependent variable (an outcome of the EU’s actions), it shows how leadership conditioned the EU’s negotiation strategy. This paves the way for future research on the EU’s climate leadership and, at the same time, provides a firsthand experience of the Loss and Damage negotiations at COP27 in Egypt.
Judicial Settlement Conferences and Defendant Plea Decision-Making
Authors: Henderson Kelsey S.
Published: November 2024

This project examines the role of judicial settlement conferences, and how judicial involvement in plea negotiations influences defendants’ perceptions of the constitutionality of the plea and procedural justice, confidence ratings, and plea decisions. In an experimental study, mock defendants ( n = 620) participated in a 2 (defense attorney advice: explicit vs. no comment) × 2 (judge advice: explicit vs. no comment) + 1 (control group) between-subjects factorial design. Judicial advice and defense attorney advice did not significantly affect mock defendants’ plea decisions ( ps > .236) or confidence in their decision ( ps > .206). However, mock defendants who experienced a judicial settlement conference rated the procedural justice of the process higher ( p < .001) and were more likely to plead guilty than those who did not go through a settlement conference ( p = .016). Future research on expanded judicial involvement and the impacts on defendants’ plea decision-making is encouraged.
Machines think, but do we? Embracing AI in flat organizations: Challenges of technological change in women-owned manufacturing firms
Authors: Iram Tahira , Malik Haider Ali , Batool Sadia , Bano Asia , Ng Boon-Kwee , Bilal Ahmad Raza
Published: November 2024

Drawing on the combined strengths of Conservation of Resources (COR) theory and Information Processing Theory (IPT), we explored the relationship between technological turbulence and knowledge hiding, with employees’ awareness of AI as a key mediating factor. We also examined the dual moderating effects of hierarchical flatness in an organization and change leadership to test the theoretical synergy of COR and IPT. Data were collected from 315 women-owned manufacturing firms and analyzed through PLS-SEM. The findings reveal that employees’ AI awareness mediates the link between technological turbulence and knowledge-hiding behaviors. A flatter organizational structure aids in spreading AI awareness among employees, while effective change leadership serves as a crucial moderator, reducing knowledge hiding by influencing employee behavior. The survey highlights that increased AI awareness can lead to fears about AI's impact on job security, driving knowledge hiding. However, skilled leadership can mitigate this by promoting innovation and encouraging collaboration with external partners. This study provides original insights by developing and empirically validating a model of knowledge hiding in response to technological turbulence in women-owned manufacturing sectors in Punjab, Pakistan. It deepens the understanding of knowledge management by examining the interplay between organizational flatness and AI integration, areas often overlooked in existing literature.
Ketamine for treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder: Double-blind active-controlled crossover study
Authors: Beaglehole Ben , Glue Paul , Neehoff Shona , Shadli Shabah , McNaughton Neil , Kimber Bridget , Muirhead Chrissie , Bie Aroha de , Day-Brown Rachel , Hughes-Medlicott Natalie J
Published: November 2024

Background:

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) may respond to ketamine treatment.

Aim:

To examine the responsiveness and tolerability of treatment-refractory OCD to intramuscular (IM) ketamine compared to IM fentanyl.

Methods:

This was a randomised double-blind psychoactive-controlled study with single doses of racemic ketamine 0.5 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg or fentanyl 50 µg (psychoactive control). Pre-dosing with 4 mg oral ondansetron provided nausea prophylaxis. Eligible participants were aged between 18 and 50 years with severe treatment-resistant OCD. The primary efficacy measure was the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS). Tolerability was measured with the Clinician-Administered Dissociative States Scale (CADSS). Repeated measures analysis of variance with orthogonal polynomial trends was used to assess the effect of drug treatment on Y-BOCS and CADSS scores.

Results:

Twelve participants were randomised and 10 completed the study (7 females, 3 males, mean age 33 years). Two participants dropped out due to not tolerating dissociative effects associated with the study medication. The reductions in Y-BOCS scores were greater and statistically dose-related for both ketamine doses than fentanyl (dose [linear], F(1, 9) = 6.5, p = 0.031). Score changes for all treatments were maximal at 1–2 h with a steady separation of scores out to 168 h. Ketamine was associated with short-term dissociative and cardiovascular effects.

Conclusions:

We provide further preliminary evidence for the efficacy and tolerability of IM ketamine in an outpatient cohort of OCD. Additional work is required to establish the optimal dosing regimen and longer-term role of ketamine for OCD. These findings are encouraging given the well-known limitations that exist for treatments in this area.
Exploring the effects of erythropoietin treatment on cortical thickness and hippocampal volume in patients with mood disorders undergoing electroconvulsive therapy: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Macoveanu Julian , Zarp Jeff , Vinberg Maj , Brendstrup-Brix Kristoffer , Kessing Lars V , Jørgensen Martin B , Miskowiak Kamilla W
Published: November 2024

Background:

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a highly effective treatment for severe depression. However, its utilization is limited to the most severely ill patients due to stigma, healthcare provider unfamiliarity, and concerns regarding cognitive side effects. Erythropoietin (EPO) is a promising add-on treatment during ECT due to its potential to increase neuroplasticity and cognition.

Aims:

To explore the effects of EPO administration on cortical thickness and hippocampal volumes.

Methods:

In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, we previously investigated the impact of EPO (40,000 IU) versus placebo (saline) infusions on cognitive side effects of unipolar or bipolar depression patients undergoing eight ECT sessions over 2.5 weeks. This cross-sectional magnetic resonance imaging study explores the effect of EPO on cortical thickness and hippocampal volumes 3 days post-ECT in 37 of the EPO trial patients (EPO n = 21; placebo n = 16).

Results:

Compared to the placebo group, EPO-treated patients displayed thicker cortex in distributed regions of the right hemisphere, predominantly in the parietal and occipital areas. There were no significant group differences in the hippocampal volumes or prefrontal cortex thickness.

Conclusions:

EPO treatment may produce a selective increase in the right-side occipito-parietal cortical thickness. In contrast, the thickness of other cognition-relevant structures was not significantly affected. This aligns with our previously reported finding that EPO has a selective effect on autobiographical memory and associated right-side parietal activity in the absence of changes in global cognition. It remains to be investigated whether longer EPO treatment and follow-up assessment may be necessary for overt structural changes in cognition-relevant brain networks.
The potential of benchmark challenges in the social sciences
Authors: Pankowska Paulina , Mendrik Adrienne , Emery Tom , Garcia-Bernardo Javier
Published: November 2024

Social scientists aim to create explanations of the world. For each social phenomenon, scientists have proposed a myriad of theories to explain its working mechanisms. Traditionally, these theories are tested by generating hypotheses, translating them into a statistical model, and assessing the significance of the model’s coefficients. Such an approach, however, often leads to the specification of a large number of (at times contradictory) models, all asserting that they capture the same theory. As things currently stand, there is no framework that allows for a comparison of these models. In this article, we argue that benchmarks can serve as a standard frame of reference that can help to determine which models fit better with empirical observations in a specific context. A benchmark is a standardized validation framework that allows for a direct comparison of the prediction accuracy of various models that address the same research problem. We outline the potential of organizing benchmark challenges in the social sciences and provide recommendations for their utilization.
Research on characteristics of a two-dimensional piston pump with magnetic motion converters
Authors: Huang Yixiao , Ding Chuan , Ruan Jian
Published: November 2024

A new type of two-dimensional piston pump with magnetic motion converters is proposed, which uses a pair of magnetic motion converters capable of generating a periodic axial force to replace the original roller-cam rail two-dimensional converters of the pump. By establishing the analytical model of the magnetic motion converters, the motion law of the two-dimensional piston under the magnetic motion converters is analyzed, and the efficiency model of the pump is established according to the principle of pump. The magnetic field simulation model of the magnetic motion converters is established based on Maxwell, and the simulation model of the piston pump is established based on AMESim. The simulation results verify the validity of the analytical model. The prototype pump and test rig were built, and the volumetric efficiency and mechanical efficiency of the pump under various working conditions were obtained. The deviation between the test results and the simulation results was less than 5%, which verified the correctness of the theoretical analysis.
Steam turbine high-pressure reaction stages; new 3D vortices breakdown and airfoil optimization method
Authors: Jafari Jafar , Amini Ali M , Alizadeh Mohammad
Published: November 2024

3D airfoil optimization is a widely used and beneficial method for upgrading axial turbines. However, the reviewed literature shows that it does not yield significant efficiency gains in high-pressure reaction stages of steam turbines. We concluded that the followed optimization approaches were not proper enough. In this paper, we used numerical simulations to study the structure of longitudinal vortices in these stages and find main phenomena causing aerodynamic losses. After that, we perused the existing 3D airfoil optimization methods to affect these phenomena significantly. In this way we planned and used an optimization approach to weaken the phenomena which are main sources of aerodynamic losses. We found that besides the well-known secondary vortices, there are two influential vortices called “ Mixing vortex” and “ Incidence vortex”, which are investigated in detail. The mixing vortex is the largest longitudinal vortex in a high-pressure steam turbine stage. To enhance the aerodynamic efficiency and reduce these longitudinal vortices, we used a combination of lean, twist and “ Endwall Section Scaling (ESS)” which is introduced in this paper. To capture the effect of longitudinal vortices more accurately, the optimization is applied to a 1.5-stage HP turbine. In the optimized configuration, the efficiency of the 1.5-stage HP turbine increases by 0.61% while mass flow rate and pressure ratio are kept constant.
Late-Holocene paleoreconstruction of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean: A multiproxy understanding of the paleoclimatic, paleoproductivity and paleotemperature variability
Authors: Santos Felipe R , Mendes Rafaela N. M. , Lourenço Rafael A. , Taniguchi Satie , Martins César C. , Sousa Silvia H. M. , Nagai Renata H. , Figueira Rubens C. L. , Wainer Ilana K. C. , Mahiques Michel M. , Bícego Márcia C.
Published: November 2024

A multiproxy evaluation focusing on sedimentological, molecular, and isotopic proxies was used to reconstruct the environmental changes on the SW Atlantic Ocean margin enabling an integrated assessment of this basin’s Late-Holocene oceanographic and climatic dynamics. Variations in paleoproductivity, climate, and sea surface temperature (SST) indicate three phases throughout the core. The first phase (2800–1600 cal yr BP) showed a generally low marine and terrigenous organic matter input, marked by terrigenous material input pulses transported by the Brazil Current (BC) from small rivers of the South Brazil Bight (SBB) and/or Paraiba do Sul River. The second interval (1600–1300 cal yr BP) registered the lowest levels of fine sediments, total organic carbon content, and concentrations of all analyzed lipid biomarkers, indicating the occurrence of a semi-stationary meander of the BC that hindered the sedimentation of fine sediments. This phase may indicate a varied timing and duration due to the sparsed radiocarbon data. The third interval (1300 cal yr BP to modern years) presented the highest levels of marine and terrigenous proxies and were influenced by the strengthening of the South America Monson System (SAMS), the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events, and the NE winds, which caused higher precipitation in the La Plata River drainage basin. A northward displacement of the Brazil Coastal Current (BCC) and the transport of the Plata Plume Water (PPW) to the central regions of the SBB, as well as the occurrence of more regular upwelling events may also influence the sedimentary organic matter composition. SST showed a variation up to ~3.2°C through the core and was related to the influence of the BC current associated with the Tropical Water (TW) and the South Atlantic Central Water (SACW), and the PPW influence on the shelf.
Holocene climate–vegetation–land use interactions in the mesomediterranean coastlands of northern Greece
Authors: Ganz Kathrin , van Vugt Lieveke , Gobet Erika , Morales-Molino César , Giagkoulis Tryfon , Ogi Sarah , Hächler Luc , Schaad Emmanuel , Zander Paul D. , Lloren Ronald , Dubois Nathalie , Grosjean Martin , Vogel Hendrik , Kotsakis Kostas , Bogaard Amy , Hafner Albert , Tinner Willy
Published: November 2024

Mesomediterranean vegetation with abundant evergreen broadleaved trees and shrubs is dominant along the coast of northern Greece. Well-dated palynological records are available from the inland submediterranean zone, where evergreen broadleaved trees and shrubs are absent or rare, but less is known about the vegetation history of the coastal area. For instance, it is unclear when and why evergreen broadleaved vegetation expanded during the Holocene. Here we present a new record from a mesomediterranean site, Limni Volvi, near the coast of the Aegean Sea. To understand Holocene vegetation history, we combined palynology, microscopic charcoal analysis and biogeochemical proxies (Ti, Ca, RABD655–680max). At the start of the Holocene, open steppe vegetation and high fire activity prevailed around Limni Volvi. Afforestation by deciduous trees was likely delayed compared to sites further inland, due to the lack of moisture at the start of the Holocene, but vegetation composition was generally similar (i.e. submediterranean), with barely any evergreen broadleaved element. Around 8150 cal. BP (6200 cal. BC) trees and shrubs declined in the open woodlands or parklands, and the landscape returned to steppe conditions at 8000 cal. BP (6050 cal. BC), likely because of drier and colder conditions during the “8.2 ka event.” Around the same time, cultural indicators suggest the start of Neolithic agriculture in the region. The present-day mesomediterranean vegetation with evergreen oaks only began to develop after 6000–5000 cal. BP (4050–3050 cal. BC), likely in response to increasing winter temperatures and reduced frost occurrence, further advantaged by human impact during the past 3600 years.
Disappointingly clinical. McCulloch and others (Appellants) v Forth Valley Health Board (Respondent) (Scotland) [2023] UKSC 26
Authors: Stanley Lauren F , Forsberg Lisa
Published: November 2024

In McCulloch v Forth Valley Health Board, the UK Supreme Court decided that whether a medical intervention is a ‘reasonable alternative’ that requires disclosure for the purposes of medical consent is determined according to the professional practice test. As such, it is governed by Bolam rather than the patient-centred approach in Montgomery. Disappointingly, McCulloch is (1) doctrinally inconsistent with the precedent in Montgomery (as well as its underlying philosophy) and (2) moves in a direction with the potential to unravel much of Montgomery’s progress. We consider McCulloch, situating it within the existing law on information disclosure, as well as highlighting some pragmatic concerns over its implications. We argue that the Supreme Court effectively fragments elements of the duty to disclose, in a way that is unnecessary, artificial, and even counterintuitive. Perhaps all is not lost from the patient’s perspective, however. We explore the potential for reconciliation of McCulloch and Montgomery in a way that balances clinical considerations and the patient’s own evaluation of their interests.
Cucurbitacins Loaded in Liposome Nanoparticles Inhibit the Development of Lung Cancer Through BECN1-mediated Autophagy
Authors: Liu Xietian , Diao Peng
Published: November 2024

Background

Autophagy has always been a current research hotspot during lung cancer treatment.

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism by which cucurbitacins loaded in liposome nanoparticles (Cu B-NPs) inhibit the development of lung cancer through Beclin 1 (BECN1) regulation.

Methods

Cu B-NPs were prepared, and the A549 group, Cu B group, and Cu B-NPs group were set up to assess the mechanism of Cu B-NPs in regulating autophagy and inhibiting the development of lung cancer. Cu B-NPs+si-BECN1 group and Cu B-NPs+pc-BECN1 group were also set up to analyze whether Cu B-NPs regulate autophagy through BECN1 to inhibit the development of lung cancer.

Results

Cu B-NPs were successfully prepared and had good dispersion stability. Cu B-NPs reduced cell viability, promoted apoptosis and the accumulation of autophagosomes, and regulated apoptosis-related proteins, thereby inhibiting lung cancer development. After activating/inhibiting BECN1 expression, Cu B-NPs promoted cell autophagy and apoptosis by upregulating BECN1 expression, thereby inhibiting the development of lung cancer.

Conclusion

In this study, Cu B-NPs were successfully prepared, and the particles promoted autophagy and induced apoptosis in A549 cells by upregulating BECN1, thereby inhibiting the development of lung cancer. This provides strong evidence and clues for further research and development of lung cancer treatment strategies.
The 8020 Campaign in Japan: A Policy Analysis
Authors: Takehara Sachiko , Karawekpanyawong Raksanan , Okubo Hikaru , Tun Tin Zar , Ramadhani Aulia , Chairunisa Fania , Tanaka Azusa , Vichayanrat Tippanart , Wright F.A. Clive , Ogawa Hiroshi
Published: November 2024

Japan initiated a nationwide oral health promotion movement called the 8020 Campaign in 1989, which promoted oral health via a positive message: let’s keep at least 20 teeth when we reach the age of 80. This study aimed to understand Japan’s 8020 Campaign in terms of its content, actors, processes, and context. This study used qualitative data collection methods consisting of a literature review and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). The data were analyzed using the health policy triangle framework. The results showed that the 8020 Campaign promoted oral health for individuals of all ages using a life-course approach and followed the Ottawa Charter framework for its core activities. The major facilitating factors suggested were stable financial support, initiatives led by local governments, the enactment of oral health laws and ordinances, the establishment of the 8020 Promotion Foundation, and increased attention focused on preventive approaches to oral health in Japan.
Neighborhood Immigrant Concentration, Interview Language, and Survey Nonresponse in the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS)
Authors: Baumer Eric P. , Xie Min
Published: November 2024

Using restricted data from 2011 to 2014, this study examines whether neighborhood immigrant concentration and survey interview language are associated with participation in the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The findings show that survey participation in the NCVS during the study period did not differ appreciably among households and persons sampled from neighborhoods with larger shares of immigrants. This suggests that the NCVS can contribute meaningfully to knowledge about the relationship between neighborhood immigrant concentration and levels of crime, providing an important complement to studies based on crime data collected by law enforcement agencies. Interview language had a minimal impact on nonresponse among Hispanic respondents in the NCVS, but the study revealed much higher rates of nonresponse across waves among Asian household respondents who completed the NCVS in a non-English language, especially among those from neighborhoods with relatively low immigrant concentration. This suggests that greater translation support for Asian respondents could increase NCVS response rates. Replicating and extending our research with more recent NCVS data, and incorporating the new item on citizenship status, would be valuable given the continued growth in the immigrant population, increased share of immigrants who routinely speak a language other than English at home, and social and political changes that have corresponded with observed reductions in nonresponse in government-administered surveys. We encourage the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) to facilitate such research by routinely making the restricted NCVS data available for researchers to use within the nation’s Federal Statistical Research Data Centers and by adding interview language as a permanent fixture of the data.
Government Financing for Clean Technology Development: Financial Risk and Environmental Benefits
Authors: Jung Seung Hwan , Dong Lingxiu , Kim Dongnyoung , Qiu Yunzhe
Published: November 2024

We study the impact of government financing designed to promote clean technology advancement. Government financing offers loans for financially constrained firms that manufacture and market clean-technology products. We build an analytical model to explore the impact of such government financing in the presence of market uncertainty. Our analysis shows that compared to prevalent commercial financing schemes such as bank financing and equity financing, government financing encourages firms to pursue more aggressive operational strategies by elevating technology levels and production volumes. While those aggressive measures yield environmental benefits, they also expose firms to increased bankruptcy risk. To address this issue, we propose a risk-mitigation strategy that manages bankruptcy risks within the bounds of a moderate environment target. Our work sheds light on the often-overlooked risk tied to government financing for clean technology development and offers insights into some of the high-profile bankruptcies of firms that received such financing.
Anatomical and Micro-CT Assessment of the First Metatarsal Head Vascularization and Soft Tissue Envelope Following Minimally Invasive Chevron Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus Deformity
Authors: Carvalho Kepler Alencar Mendes de , Fayed Aly , Barbachan Mansur Nacime Salomao , Godoy-Santos Alexandre Leme , Talusan Paul , Chrea Bopha , de Cesar Netto Cesar , Johnson Anne H. , Dalmau-Pastor Miki
Published: November 2024

Background:

Minimally invasive surgical (MIS) chevron-type osteotomy for hallux valgus (HV) treatment offers a surgical alternative to open surgery with minimal surgical dissection and a hypothetical decreased risk for soft tissue complications. The objectives of this study were to assess the incidence of injuries to the soft tissue envelope and to the blood supply of the first metatarsal head through gross dissection and, using micro–computed tomography (micro-CT), to identify the safe position to perform the MIS chevron-type osteotomy of the first metatarsal head based on the anatomical data.

Methods:

Twenty cadaveric specimens with HV were used for the study. Seven specimens were perfused with a low-viscosity radiopaque polymer preoperatively. All specimens underwent MIS chevron-type osteotomy executed using a 20 × 2-mm Shannon burr at the metatarsal neck’s flare. Anatomical dissection of all specimens was then performed to assess macroscopic injury to the first metatarsal head complex soft tissue structures and blood supply. The 7 specimens that were preinjected then underwent micro-CT assessment to assess the first metatarsal head blood supply.

Results:

Two soft tissue injuries in 2 cadavers were identified, including a 2-mm injury to the flexor hallucis brevis in one specimen and a 1-mm injury to the dorsomedial nerve. No arterial injuries were identified in either the gross dissection or micro-CT imaging. Micro-CT has pinpointed a secure location to complete the chevron-type osteotomy. We found that finalizing the dorsal arm of the MIS chevron-type osteotomy at a median distance of 25.6 mm, and the plantar arm at 23.9 mm from the most distal point of the first metatarsal head, ensured safety in the specimens we used.

Conclusion:

As tested in this cadaveric study on 20 specimens, the MIS chevron-type osteotomy procedure preserved the soft tissue envelope of the first metatarsal head complex and the blood supply of the first metatarsal head, with a low number of injuries. Completing the dorsal arm of the MIS chevron-type osteotomy at a median distance of 25.6 mm, and the plantar arm at 23.9 mm from the furthest point of the first metatarsal head, while ensuring the Shannon burr does not exceed 3.9 mm dorsolaterally and 4.0 mm plantar-laterally from the cortical bone exit point, appeared crucial to avoid vascular damage.
A frequency shift based on thermoelastic dissipation of solid torus micro- or nano-ring model
Authors: Kim Jung-Hwan
Published: November 2024

The analysis of thermoelastic damping (TED) is an important issue in designing precise MEMS vibrating resonators. Especially, the frequency shift (FS) in the approximated dissipation model needs to be considered in terms of accuracy and sensitivity. In this paper, a formula is developed to investigate the FS due to a 3-dimensional (3D) TED in a circular cross-sectional ring. The temperature profile of the existing TED model for a torus ring is summarized in the form of a thermal moment. And then, the moment is then integrated across the cross-sectional area to form an equation of motion and expressed as an eigenfrequency with thermal effect according to Young’s modulus. The difference with the existing isothermal frequency is then summarized in the form of a ratio to develop an expression of explicit function for FS. The convergence of the model is examined by numerically analyzing the results at various temperatures for Si, which is known as a common semiconductor material. Additionally, a practical analysis is performed with vibration mode number and aspect ratio as independent variables. The trend of results suggests the expected conditions for FS to be considered, especially for high temperatures, high vibration mode numbers, and high aspect ratios.
Meaning in life and neurobiomarkers of brain health in the UK Biobank
Authors: Sutin Angelina , Luchetti Martina , Stephan Yannick , Terracciano Antonio
Published: November 2024

This study examines meaning in life and four neurobiomarkers implicated in dementia risk: amyloid-β 42 to 40 ratio, phosphorylated tau-181, neurofilament light, and glial fibrillary acidic protein. Adults without dementia ( N = 1150; Mage = 59.89) from the UK Biobank reported their meaning in life; neurobiomarkers were assayed twice. Meaning in life was unrelated to the biomarkers at either assessment (βs range −0.03–0.02). No association was moderated by age. These findings do not support the hypothesis that meaning in life is associated with neurobiomarkers in adults without dementia. The relation between meaning and cognition may be through other pathways, such as resilience to neuropathology.
Memory anosognosia in early Alzheimer’s disease: A memory clinic study
Authors: Benke Thomas , Karagiannis George
Published: November 2024

Background

Unawareness or anosognosia of memory impairment is a common phenomenon in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Different findings have been reported regarding its presentation, assessment procedure, and cognitive correlates.

Objective

To assess memory awareness of early AD patients predictively (before memory testing) and online (immediately after performing a memory test).

Methods

All participants were outpatients of a memory clinic. AD patients were compared with participants having mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and a group with normal cognitive aging (NC). We used a performance-based assessment procedure to measure self-perceived memory abilities. An anosognosia ratio was calculated by matching self-estimates with objective memory scores derived from the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's disease Neuropsychological battery.

Results

Memory anosognosia in terms of self-overestimation was found in almost half of the AD sample, only rarely in MCI, and was not present in NC. Most AD patients had both, a low prediction and also a deficient online accuracy of self-estimation. Memory overestimators were older, less educated, and had significantly poorer neuropsychological scores. A stepwise linear regression analysis showed that memory anosognosia was predicted by age, everyday functional abilities and neuropsychological variables, including executive and mnestic abilities.

Conclusions

Poor cognitive and memory functions combined with memory anosognosia are a hallmark of early AD. Further, mnemonic anosognosia as assessed by performance based measures separates AD patients already in the early disease stage from subjects with MCI or normal controls. Our findings highlight the importance of assessing memory self-appraisal in subjects attending a memory clinic, in addition to clinical and cognitive variables.
Emergency department nurses’ learning and evolving perspectives in interacting with patients who self-harm. An explorative interview study of the use of a mobile application
Authors: Berring Lene Lauge , Andersen Ingrid C , Østergaard Lise Bachmann , Bygum Cecilie Borges , Christensen Line Marie , Høgsgaard Ditte , Johannesen Anja Rebien , Simonÿ Charlotte
Published: November 2024

SAFE is a mobile application co-created for and by people who have experienced self-harm, either themselves or as next of kin. This study intended to integrate SAFE into an Emergency Department (ED) to help patients share experiences of self-harm and to support professionals in conducting treatment as usual (TAU). Objective: This study was a part of a Co-operative Inquiry in which a learning intervention was implemented, followed by an interview study exploring ED nurses’ reflections and learnings while integrating SAFE into their practice. Methods: Thirteen semi-structured interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: The nurses imagined that SAFE could be a positive game changer. However, they were hesitant due to uncertainty about the ED context, the value of the app and their skills. Conclusions: Supplying TAU with technology is challenging and future digital solutions must be created in partnership to ensure the solutions are customised to the target group.
Completely Externalized Radial Artery-Fed Pseudoaneurysm with Associated Skin Erosion: A Case Report
Authors: Kashtanjeva Besnike , Ghosh Kanad , Unadkat Jignesh , Skelly Christopher C.
Published: November 2024

A pseudoaneurysm occurs when there is a disruption in the arterial wall, leading to blood extravasation that is locally contained. Various conditions or events can result in this disruption such as trauma, infection, or iatrogenic injury. If hemostasis is incomplete, a fibrous capsule forms over time, encapsulating the extravasated blood. While pseudoaneurysms can develop in any vascular bed, they are commonly associated with femoral artery access as a well-recognized complication, whereas their occurrence after radial artery access is less frequent. Even rarer is the erosion of the skin by the pseudoaneurysm. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reported in medical literature of a completely externalized, non-ruptured pseudoaneurysm extending from a radial artery as detected by duplex ultrasound examination. The patient underwent treatment involving interposition vein graft repair of the excised pseudoaneurysm.
An increase in paediatric arthroscopy in Europe: Experience of the EPOS Sport Study Group
Authors: Turati Marco , Crippa Marco , Nicolaou Nicolas , Tassistro Elena , Sinikumpu Jaakko , Courvoisier Aurelien , Mumme Marcus , Duart Julio , Thüsing Monika , Bigoni Marco , Accadbled Franck
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

Paediatric musculoskeletal injuries in association with increased participation in sports activities continue to increase. Arthroscopy is recognized as a safe and effective procedure in children. This study aims to identify trends in European paediatric sports centres over 20 years.

Methods:

A survey was performed across the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS) Sports Study Group focusing on 3 years (2000, 2009 and 2019). Centres were divided into two groups: Group 1 ( n = 5, with data for 2000, 2009 and 2019) and Group 2 ( n = 8, with data for 2009 and 2019). Data were analysed as the total annual number of cases and separately by anatomical region and patient demographics. A descriptive analysis was performed to characterize the trends.

Results:

Data from eight centres across Europe showed an increase in total annual arthroscopy cases (G1 from 53 to 202 and G2 from 393 to 615, p-value < 0.001) and as a percentage of paediatric orthopaedic surgeries (G1 from 1.6% to 5.2%; G2 from 5.1% to 6.8%) in seven out of eight centres. The knee remained the most commonly treated joint (G1 from 79.2% to 83.3%; G2 from 78.9% to 84.4%), despite the rise of others such as the elbow ( p-value = 0.020) and decline of the shoulder ( p-value = 0.014). Cases involving paediatric patients over 11 years increased while there was no gender distinction among paediatric patients.

Conclusion:

Paediatric arthroscopy procedures in Europe have increased in number over the past 3 decades. Technological advancements have allowed a surge in procedures and applications to new anatomical areas.

Level of evidence:

IV – retrospective database review.