bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the toxicity and carcinogenicity of double-walled carbon nanotubes in the rat lung after intratracheal instillation: a two-year study
Authors: Saleh Dina Mourad , Luo Shengyong , Ahmed Omnia Hosny Mohamed , Alexander David B. , Alexander William T. , Gunasekaran Sivagami , El-Gazzar Ahmed M. , Abdelgied Mohamed , Numano Takamasa , Takase Hiroshi , Ohnishi Makoto , Tomono Susumu , Hady Randa Hussein Abd el , Fukamachi Katsumi , Kanno Jun , Hirose Akihiko , Xu Jiegou , Suzuki Shugo , Naiki-Ito Aya , Takahashi Satoru , Tsuda Hiroyuki
Published: April 2022

Background

Considering the expanding industrial applications of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), safety assessment of these materials is far less than needed. Very few long-term in vivo studies have been carried out. This is the first 2-year in vivo study to assess the effects of double walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) in the lung and pleura of rats after pulmonary exposure.

Methods

Rats were divided into six groups: untreated, Vehicle, 3 DWCNT groups (0.12 mg/rat, 0.25 mg/rat and 0.5 mg/rat), and MWCNT-7 (0.5 mg/rat). The test materials were administrated by intratracheal-intrapulmonary spraying (TIPS) every other day for 15 days. Rats were observed without further treatment until sacrifice.

Results

DWCNT were biopersistent in the rat lung and induced marked pulmonary inflammation with a significant increase in macrophage count and levels of the chemotactic cytokines CCL2 and CCL3. In addition, the 0.5 mg DWCNT treated rats had significantly higher pulmonary collagen deposition compared to the vehicle controls. The development of carcinomas in the lungs of rats treated with 0.5 mg DWCNT (4/24) was not quite statistically higher (p = 0.0502) than the vehicle control group (0/25), however, the overall incidence of lung tumor development, bronchiolo-alveolar adenoma and bronchiolo-alveolar carcinoma combined, in the lungs of rats treated with 0.5 mg DWCNT (7/24) was statistically higher (p < 0.05) than the vehicle control group (1/25). Notably, two of the rats treated with DWCNT, one in the 0.25 mg group and one in the 0.5 mg group, developed pleural mesotheliomas. However, both of these lesions developed in the visceral pleura, and unlike the rats administered MWCNT-7, rats administered DWCNT did not have elevated levels of HMGB1 in their pleural lavage fluids. This indicates that the mechanism by which the mesotheliomas that developed in the DWCNT treated rats is not relevant to humans.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that the DWCNT fibers we tested are biopersistent in the rat lung and induce chronic inflammation. Rats treated with 0.5 mg DWCNT developed pleural fibrosis and lung tumors. These findings demonstrate that the possibility that at least some types of DWCNTs are fibrogenic and tumorigenic cannot be ignored.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: microRNA-15b-5p encapsulated by M2 macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles promotes gastric cancer metastasis by targeting BRMS1 and suppressing DAPK1 transcription
Authors: Cao Yi , Tu Yi , Xiong Jianbo , Tan Shengxing , Luo Lianghua , Wu Ahao , Shu Xufeng , Jie Zhigang , Li Zhengrong
Published: April 2022

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from tumor-associated macrophages are implicated in the progression and metastasis of gastric cancer (GC) via the transfer of molecular cargo RNAs. We aimed to decipher the impact of microRNA (miR)-15b-5p transferred by M2 macrophage-derived EVs in the metastasis of GC.

Methods

Expression of miR-15b-5p was assessed and the downstream genes of miR-15b-5p were analyzed. GC cells were subjected to gain- and loss-of function experiments for miR-15b-5p, BRMS1, and DAPK1. M2 macrophage-derived EVs were extracted, identified, and subjected to co-culture with GC cells and their biological behaviors were analyzed. A lung metastasis model in nude mice was established to determine the effects of miR-15b-5p on tumor metastasis in vivo.

Results

miR-15b-5p was upregulated in GC tissues and cells as well as in M2 macrophage-derived EVs. miR-15b-5p promoted the proliferative and invasive potentials, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of GC cells. M2 macrophage-derived EVs could transfer miR-15b-5p into GC cells where it targeted BRMS1 by binding to its 3’UTR. BRMS1 was enriched in the DAPK1 promoter region and promoted its transcription, thereby arresting the proliferative and invasive potentials, and EMT of GC cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that orthotopic implantation of miR-15b-5p overexpressing GC cells in nude mice displayed led to enhanced tumor metastasis by inhibiting the BRMS1/DAPK1 axis.

Conclusions

Overall, miR-15b-5p delivered by M2 macrophage-derived EVs constitutes a molecular mechanism implicated in the metastasis of GC, and may thus be considered as a novel therapeutic target for its treatment.
The Notch signaling network in muscle stem cells during development, homeostasis, and disease
Authors: Gioftsidi Stamatia , Relaix Frederic , Mourikis Philippos
Published: April 2022

Skeletal muscle stem cells have a central role in muscle growth and regeneration. They reside as quiescent cells in resting muscle and in response to damage they transiently amplify and fuse to produce new myofibers or self-renew to replenish the stem cell pool. A signaling pathway that is critical in the regulation of all these processes is Notch. Despite the major differences in the anatomical and cellular niches between the embryonic myotome, the adult sarcolemma/basement-membrane interphase, and the regenerating muscle, Notch signaling has evolved to support the context-specific requirements of the muscle cells. In this review, we discuss the diverse ways by which Notch signaling factors and other modifying partners are operating during the lifetime of muscle stem cells to establish an adaptive dynamic network.
Dynamical analysis of a stochastic delayed SIR epidemic model with vertical transmission and vaccination
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Liu Maoxing
Published: April 2022

In order to describe the dynamic process of epidemic transmission with vertical transmission and vaccination in more detail and to better track the factors that lead to the occurrence of epidemics, we construct a stochastic delayed model with a specific functional response to describe its epidemic dynamics. We first prove the existence and uniqueness of the positive solution of the model. Moreover, we analyze the sufficient conditions for the extinction and persistence of the model. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to illustrate our mathematical findings.
A comprehensive review on oleaginous bacteria: an alternative source for biodiesel production
Authors: Koreti Deepali , Kosre Anjali , Jadhav Shailesh Kumar , Chandrawanshi Nagendra Kumar
Published: April 2022

Due to continuously increasing population, industrialization, and environmental pollution, lead to generating high energy demand which suitable for our environment. Biodiesel is an alternative renewable fuel source. According to the feedstock of production, biodiesel has been categorized into four generations. The main disadvantage of the first and second generation is the raw material processing cost that the challenge for its industrial-level production. Oleaginous bacteria that contain more than 20% lipid of their cellular biomass can be a good alternative and sustainable feedstock. Oleaginous bacteria used as feedstock have numerous advantages, such as their high growth rate, being easy to cultivate, utilizing various substrates for growth, genetic or metabolic modifications possible. In addition, some species of bacteria are capable of carbon dioxide sequestration. Therefore, oleaginous bacteria can be a significant resource for the upcoming generation’s biodiesel production. This review discusses the biochemistry of lipid accumulation, screening techniques, and lipid accumulation factors of oleaginous bacteria, in addition to the overall general biodiesel production process. This review also highlights the biotechnological approach for oleaginous bacteria strain improvement that can be future used for biodiesel production and the advantages of using general biodiesel in place of conventional fuel, along with the discussion about global policies and the prospect that promotes biodiesel production from oleaginous bacteria.

Graphical Abstract
A new analytical approach for identifying market contagion
Authors: Lee Hee Soo , Kim Tae Yoon
Published: April 2022

This study proposed a new analytical approach to identify the excessive comovement of two markets as contagion. This goal is achieved by linking latent-factor and single-equation error correction models and evaluating the breaks in the short- and long-term relationships and correlatedness in the linked model. The results demonstrated that a short-term relationship representing the market speed ratio between two markets plays a key role in contagion dynamics. When a long-term relationship or correlatedness is broken (comovement change) due to a break in the short-term relationship (market speed ratio), contagion is highly likely and should be formally declared. Bayesian posterior probabilities were calculated to determine the cause. Furthermore, this study applied this analytical Bayesian approach to empirically test the contagion effects of the U.S. stock market during the global financial crisis between 2007 and 2009 using 22 developed equity markets.
Waiting reasons affecting the handling process at liquid bulk terminals
Authors: Salihoglu Eren , Bal Beşikçi Elif
Published: April 2022

Since liquid bulk cargoes are the most frequently handled cargo types in Turkish ports in 2019 and the latter in 2020, the loading and unloading times of liquid bulk cargoes are important in terms of handling efficiency. While a higher amount of cargo handled per unit time increases the profitability for terminal operations, the short handling time of tankers at the terminal provides an advantage for the next voyage. In this study, the process in the terminals in Turkey where 19.05% of the total liquid bulk cargo handled was reviewed as well as the reasons for the waits in this process. Thus, it was aimed to find subjects that need to be focused on to reduce the waiting times. An expert team was asked to indicate the reasons for the waits using the fishbone method. In addition, a questionnaire was applied to a sample group of 134 people who were the stakeholders of the handling process. It was found out that the reasons for the waits obtained through the questionnaire matched those determined by the fishbone method. To reach a solution, prioritization was provided by scoring the reasons that lead to waits.
Entomopathogenic nematodes as potential and effective biocontrol agents against cutworms, Agrotis spp.: present and future scenario
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Kumari Pritam , Kamboj Rubal , Kumar Anil , Banakar Prakash , Kumar Vinod
Published: April 2022

Background

Cutworms (Agrotis spp.) are cosmopolitan and polyphagous pests distributed throughout world, which belong to the family Noctuidae, and about 26 species are found associated with agriculturally important crops in India and some other countries of world. The most prominent species belonging to genera Agrotis are Agrotis ipsilon, A. flammatra, A. plecta, A. spinifera and A. segetum. Cutworms cause substantial damage to many agricultural and horticultural crops particularly, at the seedling stage. This pest produces vitiating symptoms with a young stage (larvae) by feeding on the epidermis of leaves and eating away parts of the stem, tubers, etc.

Results

This review article is mainly focused on management of cutworm, which is very challenging due to larval hiding behaviour during the day time and feed actively at night. Efficient chemical control of cutworm may be obtained by adequately applying chemicals when young caterpillars are still on the leaves and therefore vulnerable. As per biology of cutworms, these pests remain hidden in cracks and crevices during most of life cycle so chemical control is often ineffective and economic. Sometimes, inadequate application of these chemicals is resulted into the development of resistance in these pests. Moreover, the adverse effects of the chemicals have led researchers to search for new control strategies. Recently, biological control has become a practical option for eco-friendly management of numerous insect pests. Among biological control, entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have broad potential to kill the cutworms in soil itself.

Conclusions

Various species of EPNs like Steinernema spp. and Heterorhabditis spp. are found a quite effective and hold considerable potential to manage cutworms. So, the use of EPNs for the management of cutworms is a good alternate to chemical method.
A comprehensive study of calibration and uncertainty quantification for Bayesian convolutional neural networks — An application to seismic data
Authors: Mosser Lukas , Zabihi Naeini Ehsan
Published: April 2022

Deep neural networks offer numerous potential applications across geoscience; for example, one could argue that they are the state-of-the-art method for predicting faults in seismic data sets. In quantitative reservoir characterization workflows, it is common to incorporate the uncertainty of predictions. Thus, such subsurface models should provide calibrated probabilities and the associated uncertainties in their predictions. It has been shown that popular deep learning-based models often are miscalibrated, and due to their deterministic nature, they provide no means to interpret the uncertainty of their predictions. We compare three different approaches for obtaining probabilistic models based on convolutional neural networks in a Bayesian formalism, namely, deep ensembles, concrete dropout, and stochastic weight averaging Gaussian (SWAG). These methods are consistently applied to fault detection case studies in which deep ensembles use independently trained models to provide fault probabilities and concrete dropout represents an extension to the popular dropout technique to approximate Bayesian neural networks. Finally, we apply SWAG, a recent method that is based on the Bayesian inference equivalence of minibatch stochastic gradient descent. We provide quantitative results in terms of model calibration and uncertainty representation, as well as qualitative results on the synthetic and real seismic data sets. Our results indicate that the approximate Bayesian methods, concrete dropout and SWAG, provide well-calibrated predictions and uncertainty attributes at a lower computational cost compared to the baseline deep ensemble approach. The resulting uncertainties also offer a possibility to further improve the model performance, as well as enhancing the interpretability of the models.
Dynamical Casimir effects with atoms: From the emission of photon pairs to geometric phases
Authors: Impens François , de Melo e Souza Reinaldo , Matos Guilherme C. , Maia Neto Paulo A.
Published: April 2022

The coupling between a moving ground-state atom and the quantum electromagnetic field is at the origin of several intriguing phenomena ranging from the dynamical Casimir emission of photons to Sagnac-like geometric phase shifts in atom interferometers. Recent progress in this emerging field reveals unprecedented connections between non-trivial aspects of modern physics such as electrodynamic retardation, non-unitary evolution in open quantum systems, geometric phases, non-locality and inertia.
Investigating bounds on the extended uncertainty principle metric through astrophysical tests
Authors: Ökcü Özgür , Aydiner Ekrem
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we consider the gravitational tests for the extended uncertainty principle (EUP) metric, which is a large-scale quantum correction to Schwarzschild metric. We calculate gravitational redshift, geodetic precession, Shapiro time delay, precession of Mercury and S2 star's orbits. Using the results of experiments and observations, we obtain the lower bounds for the EUP fundamental length scale

. We obtain the smallest bound

for gravitational redshift, and the largest bound

for the precession of S2's orbit.
Loss of Hepatic Small Heterodimer Partner Elevates Ileal Bile Acids and Alters Cell Cycle-related Genes in Male Mice
Authors: Shaw Ryan Philip Henry , Kolyvas Peter , Dang Nathanlown , Hyon Angela , Bailey Keith , Anakk Sayeepriyadarshini
Published: April 2022

Small heterodimer partner (Shp) regulates several metabolic processes, including bile acid levels, but lacks the conserved DNA binding domain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed conserved genetic evolution of SHP, FXR, CYP7A1, and CYP8B1. Shp, although primarily studied as a downstream target of Farnesoid X Receptor (Fxr), has a distinct hepatic role that is poorly understood. Here, we report that liver-specific Shp knockout (LShpKO) mice have impaired negative feedback of Cyp7a1 and Cyp8b1 on bile acid challenge and demonstrate that a single copy of the Shp gene is sufficient to maintain this response. LShpKO mice also exhibit elevated total bile acid pool with ileal bile acid composition mimicking that of cholic acid-fed control mice. Agonistic activation of Fxr (GW4064) in the LShpKO did not alter the elevated basal expression of Cyp8b1 but lowered Cyp7a1 expression. We found that deletion of Shp led to an enrichment of distinct motifs and pathways associated with circadian rhythm, copper ion transport, and DNA synthesis. We confirmed increased expression of metallothionein genes that can regulate copper levels in the absence of SHP. LShpKO livers also displayed a higher basal proliferation that was exacerbated specifically with bile acid challenge either with cholic acid or 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine but not with another liver mitogen, 1,4-bis[2-(3,5-dichloropyridyloxy)]benzene. Overall, our data indicate that hepatic SHP uniquely regulates certain proliferative and metabolic cues.
Inhibition of NR5A1 Phosphorylation Alleviates a Transcriptional Suppression Defect Caused by a NovelNR0B1Mutation
Authors: Abe Ichiro , Tanaka Tomoko , Ohe Kenji , Fujii Hideyuki , Nagata Mai , Ochi Kentaro , Senda Yuki , Takeshita Kaori , Koga Midori , Kudo Tadachika , Enjoji Munechika , Yanase Toshihiko , Kobayashi Kunihisa
Published: April 2022

Context

Mutations in the NR0B1 gene, also well-known as the DAX1 gene, are known to cause congenital adrenal hypoplasia associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. The abnormal NR0B1 protein fails to suppress the transcription of promoters of steroidogenic enzymes, which are also targets of NR5A1 protein, also well-known as Ad4BP/SF-1 protein. Since NR5A1 and NR0B1 have antagonistic effects on steroidogenesis, the loss of function due to NR0B1 mutations may be compensated by inducing loss of function of NR5A1 protein.

Patient

A middle-aged man was diagnosed with congenital adrenal hypoplasia associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and genetic analysis revealed him to have a novel NR0B1 mutation, c.1222C>T(p.Gln408Ter).

Methods

NR0B1 activity was evaluated in CLK1/4 inhibitor-treated 293T cells via immunoblotting and luciferase assays of the STAR promoter.

Results

TG003 treatment suppressed NR5A1 protein function to compensate for the mutant NR0B1 showing inhibited suppression of transcription. Immunoblotting analyses showed that the phosphorylation status of NR5A1 at Ser203 was attenuated by the CLK1/4 inhibitor.

Conclusion

The specific reduction of NR5A1 phosphorylation by a CLK1/4 inhibitor may alleviate developmental defects in patients with NR0B1 mutations.
Pulse Wave Analysis Using the Pressure Recording Analytical Method to Measure Cardiac Output in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Patients: A Method Comparison Study Using Transesophageal Doppler Echocardiography as Reference Method
Authors: Greiwe Gillis , Balfanz Vanessa , Hapfelmeier Alexander , Zajonz Thomas S. , Müller Matthias , Saugel Bernd , Schulte-Uentrop Leonie
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND:

Cardiac output (CO) is a key determinant of oxygen delivery, but choosing the optimal method to obtain CO in pediatric patients remains challenging. The pressure recording analytical method (PRAM), implemented in the MostCareUp system (Vygon), is an invasive uncalibrated pulse wave analysis (PWA) method to measure CO. The objective of this study is to compare CO measured by PRAM (PRAM-CO; test method) with CO simultaneously measured by transesophageal Doppler echocardiography (TEE-CO; reference method) in pediatric patients.

METHODS:

In this prospective observational method comparison study, PRAM-CO and TEE-CO were assessed in pediatric elective cardiac surgery patients at 2 time points: after anesthesia induction and after surgery. The study was performed in a German university medical center from March 2019 to March 2020. We included pediatric patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery with arterial catheter and TEE monitoring. PRAM-CO and TEE-CO were compared using Bland-Altman analysis accounting for repeated measurements per subject, and the percentage error (PE).

RESULTS:

We included 52 PRAM-CO and TEE-CO measurement pairs of 30 patients in the final analysis. Mean ± SD TEE-CO was 2.15 ± 1.31 L/min (range 0.55–6.07 L/min), and mean PRAM-CO was 2.21 ± 1.38 L/min (range 0.55–5.90 L/min). The mean of the differences between TEE-CO and PRAM-CO was −0.06 ±0.38 L/min with 95% limits of agreement (LOA) of 0.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53–0.82 L/min) to −0.80 L/min (95% CI, −1.00 to −0.57 L/min). The resulting PE was 34% (95% CI, 27%–41%).

CONCLUSIONS:

With a PE of <45%, PRAM-CO shows clinically acceptable agreement with TEE-CO in hemodynamically stable pediatric patients before and after cardiac surgery.
A prediction model for pathological findings after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for resectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma based on endoscopic images using deep learning
Authors: Kawahara Daisuke , Murakami Yuji , Tani Shigeyuki , Nagata Yasushi
Published: April 2022

Objectives:

To propose deep-learning (DL)-based predictive model for pathological complete response rate for resectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) with endoscopic images.

Methods and Material:

This retrospective study analyzed 98 patients with locally advanced esophagus cancer treated by preoperative chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery from 2004 to 2016. The patient data were split into two sets: 72 patients for the training of models and 26 patients for testing of the model. Patients was classified into two groups with the LC (Group I: responder and Group II: non-responder). The scanned images were converted into joint photographic experts group (JPEG) format and resized to 150 × 150 pixels. The input image without imaging filter (w/o filter) and with Laplacian, Sobel, and wavelet imaging filters deep-learning model to predict the pathological CR with a convolution neural network (CNN). The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic were evaluated.

Results:

The average of accuracy for the cross-validation was 0.64 for w/o filter, 0.69 for Laplacian filter, 0.71 for Sobel filter, and 0.81 for wavelet filter, respectively. The average of sensitivity for the cross-validation was 0.80 for w/o filter, 0.81 for Laplacian filter, 0.67 for Sobel filter, and 0.80 for wavelet filter, respectively. The average of specificity for the cross-validation was 0.37 for w/o filter, 0.55 for Laplacian filter, 0.68 for Sobel filter, and 0.81 for wavelet filter, respectively. From the ROC curve, the average AUC for the cross-validation was 0.58 for w/o filter, 0.67 for Laplacian filter, 0.73 for Sobel filter, and 0.83 for wavelet filter, respectively.

Conclusions:

The current study proposed the improvement the accuracy of the DL-based prediction model with the imaging filters. With the imaging filters, the accuracy was significantly improved. The model can be supported to assist clinical oncologists to have a more accurate expectations of the treatment outcome.

Advances in knowledge:

The accuracy of the prediction for the local control after radiotherapy can improve with the input image with the imaging filter for deep learning.
Post-mortem perinatal imaging: what is the evidence?
Authors: Shelmerdine Susan C , Arthurs Owen J
Published: April 2022

Post-mortem imaging for the investigation of perinatal deaths is an acceptable tool amongst parents and religious groups, enabling a less invasive autopsy examination. Nevertheless, availability is scarce nationwide, and there is some debate amongst radiologists regarding the best practice and optimal protocols for performing such studies. Much of the published literature to date focusses on single centre experiences or interesting case reports. Diagnostic accuracy studies are available for a variety of individual imaging modalities (e.g. post-mortem CT, MRI, ultrasound and micro-CT), however, assimilating this information is important when attempting to start a local service.

In this article, we present a comprehensive review summarising the latest research, recently published international guidelines, and describe which imaging modalities are best suited for specific indications. When the antenatal clinical findings are not supported by the post-mortem imaging, we also suggest how and when an invasive autopsy may be considered. In general, a collaborative working relationship within a multidisciplinary team (consisting of radiologists, radiographers, the local pathology department, mortuary staff, foetal medicine specialists, obstetricians and bereavement midwives) is vital for a successful service.
Impact of Long COVID on health and quality of life
Authors: O’ Mahony Liam , Buwalda Tanja , Blair Matthew , Forde Brian , Lunjani Nonhlanhla , Ambikan Anoop , Neogi Ujjwal , Barrett Peter , Geary Eoin , O'Connor Nuala , Dineen Jennifer , Clarke Gerard , Kelleher Eric , Horgan Mary , Jackson Arthur , Sadlier Corinna
Published: April 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to measure the impact of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) on quality of life, mental health, ability to work and return to baseline health in an Irish cohort.

Methods: We invited individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 lasting more than 14 days to participate in an anonymous online questionnaire. Basic demographic data and self-reported symptoms were recorded. Internationally validated instruments including the patient health questionnaire somatic, anxiety and depressive symptom scales (PHQ-SADS), the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) and Chadler fatigue scale (CFQ) were used.

Results: We analysed responses from 988 participants with self-reported confirmed (diagnostic/antibody positive; 81%) or suspected (diagnostic/antibody negative or untested; 9%) COVID-19. The majority of respondents were female (88%), white (98%), with a median age of 43.0 (range 15 – 88 years old) and a median BMI of 26.0 (range 16 – 60). At the time of completing this survey, 89% of respondents reported that they have not returned to their pre-COVID-19 level of health. The median number of symptoms reported was 8 (range 0 to 33 symptoms), with a median duration of 12 months (range 1 to 20 months) since time of acute infection. A high proportion of PASC patients reported that they have a moderate or severe limitation in their ability to carry out their usual activities, 38% report their ability to work is severely limited and 33% report a moderate, or higher, level of anxiety or depression.

Conclusion: The results of this survey of an Irish cohort with PASC are in line with reports from other settings, and we confirm that patients with PASC reported prolonged, multi-system symptoms which can significantly impact quality of life, affect ability to work and cause significant disability. Dedicated multidisciplinary, cross specialty supports are required to improve outcomes of this patient group.
Using the ‘Twelve tips for applying change models’ for undergraduate medical curriculum reform in Pakistan: Incorporating a new Trauma Evaluation and Management TEAM® course
Authors: Soomro Rufina , Ur Rehman Sheeraz , Ali Sobia , McKimm Judy
Published: April 2022

Background: Trauma evaluation and management skills are not taught enough in medical school undergraduate curriculums worldwide. It has been recommended by trauma educators to incorporate trauma training in medical schools’ curriculum as first-line management of trauma cases is usually required by junior doctors in ERs. The introduction of formal trauma training in the form of the Trauma Evaluation and Management TEAM® course is a change introduced into the curriculum. Even when introducing such a simple change, certain factors need to be considered including the stakeholders’ apprehensions and involvement, the complexity of the internal and external environment, cultural context and political influences, and finally the psychological impact of change.

Methods: Based primarily on the “Twelve tips for applying change models to curriculum design, development and delivery” by McKimm and Jones (2018), these 12 tips provide educators, involved in curriculum or program development, a practical example of the systematic and organized outlines to improve medical curricula.

Results & Conclusions: While addressing these factors, this framework can guide educators for the successful development and implementation of a suggested change in the existing curriculum.
The Trans-Himalayan railway: ‘Bridge’ or burden to China’s South Asian ambition
Authors: Bhattarai Gaurav
Published: April 2022

Although discussion about connecting Chinese railways to Nepal borders first surfaced in the year 1973, it couldn’t make any headway until the political change of 2006 in Nepal, when the idea of linking Tibet with Kathmandu resurfaced again. However, political instability in Nepal further thwarted it, at least until Nepal faced the Indian blockade in 2015 and had to look for ways to diversify its trade and transit. Thus, for Nepal, China’s railways offer an escape from its dependence on India for trade and transit. But, for Beijing, it offers a strategic gateway to enter South Asia, which is India’s conventional sphere of influence. Although Nepal and its northern neighbor China have agreed to connect Nepal’s capital Kathmandu with the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China through railways, the materialization of such a game-changer is not free from challenges. Against the same backdrop, the objective of this study is to discover various challenges faced by the trans-Himalayan railways including political, bureaucratic, economic, and environmental challenges, and to concurrently identify how the geopolitical challenge tops the list, halting Nepal’s ambition to ‘bridge’ India and China and instead aggravating the possibility of becoming a burden to both the Asian giants. While the available literature on China and South Asia is mostly concentrated on Belt and Road (BRI) projects, ‘debt trap’ narratives, and geopolitical rivalry between India and China, this study would be a new attempt to understand how China’s aim to get connected with South Asia via land is not free of impediments. Using the qualitative method, this study reviews the geopolitical challenges confronted by the trans-Himalayan railway in the context of territorial disputes between India and China in the Himalayan region and the U.S.-Indian strategic partnership to contain the rise of China and its ambitious connectivity projects.
THE CITY BIKE AS A SAFE MODE OF TRANSPORT DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Murawińska Angelina Ewa
Published: April 2022

The main aim of the article was to show the positives of using city bikes. The introduction lists the most important information about the pandemic and the possibility of infections. Then general information on bicycle transport is provided. The study also includes the results of the study, the purpose of which was to find out the respondents’ opinions on the risk of infection while using city bikes. Finally, the results of the research are summarized and the author’s observations are presented
Las actividades de contraste en el desarrollo de los contenidos del programa de la asignatura de Proyectos 5
Authors: de Jorge-Crespo Zacarías
Published: April 2022

La puesta en práctica de un Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula supone un cambio en la forma de afrontar la docencia considerando sus tres líneas: contenidos, meto- dología y evaluación. La aplicación de este nuevo ciclo se realiza en un grupo de Proyectos 5, del Grado en Fundamentos de Arquitectura. En este ciclo hay una es- tructura coherente para toda la asignatura, con la incorporación de actividades de contraste para potenciar los contenidos. Se da a los estudiantes más espacio para expresar sus ideas y proyectos, donde la sesión crítica es la pieza de cierre de cada actividad de contraste para que expliquen sus resultados. Así mismo, co- bra sentido la evaluación continua como progreso del ejercicio del curso con la mediación de las actividades de contraste. Se han realizado las adaptaciones ne- cesarias a las secuencias y a los tiempos de las actividades del primer ciclo de- sarrollado, que han sido la base de trabajo. Los resultados permiten considerar un ciclo terminado para estas actividades de contraste, incorporadas al proyecto docente del grupo con previsión de su mantenimiento en próximos cursos. Estas actividades de corta duración se completan con otras de media y larga duración en el curso, que ya se están llevando a cabo en el aula. Palabras clave: Proyectos 5, grado en fundamentos de arquitectura, docencia universitaria, desarrollo profesional docente, crítica arquitectónica.
¿Por qué hay tantos parados en tu país? Un CIMA sobre las causas del desempleo en España v2.0
Authors: Fernández-Serrano José
Published: April 2022

El desempleo, en particular el desempleo juvenil, es uno de los problemas estructurales de la economía española con mayor impacto negativo en la so - ciedad. De ahí la importancia de conocer cuáles son sus características, sus causas y, sobre todo, sus posibles soluciones. Para ello, se necesita un enfo- que multidisciplinar y transversal que permita comprender de manera global la enorme complejidad de este problema. Este tercer Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula (CIMA) para alumnos de tercero del Grado de Administración y Dirección de Em- presas pretende profundizar en aquellos elementos que han funcionado en an- teriores ediciones. En particular, en esta ocasión se ha potenciado el trabajo en grupo y la implicación de los propios alumnos en las calificaciones de sus compañeros. Palabras claves: Estructura Económica, administración y dirección de empre- sas, docencia universitaria, desarrollo profesional docente, desempleo.
Números que hablan de nosotros. Ciclo de Mejora en la asignatura Estadística Avanzada
Authors: Zambrana Luis Andrés
Published: April 2022

Este capítulo describe la implementación de un Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula (CIMA) en la asignatura de Estadística Avanzada. Se plantea a los estudiantes que investiguen una realidad, preferiblemente cercana a ellos, al objeto de que despierte el interés por el aprendizaje. El camino que han de recorrer en la in - vestigación necesitará de las herramientas de Inferencia Estadística propias de la asignatura objeto del CIMA. La característica del objeto de estudio considera- mos importante que no se haya trabajado antes o, al menos, que la trabajemos sobre un colectivo al que no se haya estudiado, para que el proceso de aprendi- zaje, además de generar conocimiento en las mentes de los estudiantes, cree co- nocimiento hacia el exterior, culminando el CIMA con la obtención de resultados originales. Los estudiantes que han seguido la metodología recorren un camino similar al de cualquier investigador que, partiendo del interés en conocer una realidad cuya información no se encuentre registrada en publicaciones o estadís- ticas oficiales, ha de diseñar la forma de recoger información, poner en práctica el procedimiento elegido y aplicar las herramientas de las que nos dota la infe- rencia estadística para, finalmente, llegar a conclusiones numéricas sobre la rea- lidad objeto de interés. La realidad sobre la que han trabajado en este CIMA es si la razón principal por la que el estudiante asiste a clases es aprender o aprobar, con lo que, además de adquirir los habilidades y capacidades propuestas, les in- vita a reflexionar sobre su propia actitud ante el aprendizaje. Palabras clave: Estadística avanzada, grado en administración y dirección de empresas, docencia universitaria, desarrollo profesional docente y educación en valores.
Ciclo de Perfeccionamiento de Aula aplicado en la Asignatura «Derecho Civil II» del tercer curso del Doble Grado en Derecho y Administración y Dirección de Empresas y Doble Grado en Derecho y Economía
Authors: Vida Carrión Mª del Carmen
Published: April 2022

En el contexto y desarrollo del Programa de Formación e Innovación del Pro- fesorado de la Universidad de Sevilla realizado en el Curso 209/2020 se ha pro- cedido a la implementación en la Asignatura de Derecho Civil II en la extensión del contenido del Programa Docente de Obligaciones y Contratos de la Asignatura completa, para los Alumnos de tercer Curso del Doble Grado de Derecho y Admi- nistración y Dirección de Empresas y en el Doble Grado de Derecho y Economía, de la metodología de Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos (ABP) en base a los prin- cipios que los apoyan y que se expondrán en el presente artículo. Se ha aplicado el modelo metodológico desde el campo práctico forense ba- sado en el proyecto y con el resultado evaluado de la aplicación del Ciclo de Me- jora en el Aula donde se ha impartido la Asignatura referida. La ejecución del Ciclo de Mejora se ha desarrollado con las metodologías de clase, el tratamiento previo de los contenidos y la evaluación y calificación de los resultados finalmente obtenidos en base a parámetros de evaluación teórico- prácticos abordando los conocimientos y modelos mentales de los estudiantes, sus capacidades y aptitudes. Su aplicación ha estado conectada con las experien- cias de años anteriores, mejorando en base a las conclusiones obtenidas en el ciclo de mejora anterior y creando premisas para mejorar la construcción del fu- turo diseño que surja de este. Palabras clave: Derecho Civil II, Doble Grado en Derecho y Administración y Dirección de Empresas, y Doble Grado en Derecho y Economía, docencia univer- sitaria, experimentación docente universitaria, aprendizaje basado en proyectos.
Vivenciar para aprender a ser docente: Pedagogías activas e inclusivas en el Grado en Educación Infantil
Authors: Orozco Almario Inmaculada Concepción
Published: April 2022

Este Ciclo de Mejora se aplicó en la asignatura Atención a la Diversidad en Educación Infantil en el primer curso del Grado en Educación Infantil. En esta ex- periencia de innovación docente el alumnado aprendió acerca de las pedagogías activas e inclusivas a través de la indagación, el trabajo cooperativo, la creación de recursos didácticos y la experimentación de los mismos en un taller interac- tivo. Los resultados de la evaluación desvelan que gracias a esta propuesta no solo se mejoró el clima de aula, sino que el alumnado construyó unas ideas más inclusivas acerca de la diversidad y se sintió más preparado para desarrollar su profesión. Palabras clave: Atención a la diversidad, Grado en Educación Infantil, docen- cia universitaria, desarrollo profesional docente, pedagogías activas.
Aprender a desaprender Lengua Española en el Grado en Educación Primaria
Authors: Davis González Ana
Published: April 2022

El estudio que sigue es la aplicación de un CIMA (Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula), en la asignatura Lengua española y su didáctica (tercer curso del grado en Educa- ción Primaria, Universidad de Sevilla). Consiste en una sesión de unas diez horas de clase, divididas en una secuencia de actividades programadas cronológica- mente a fin de tener una ordenación bien concreta de cómo se enseñará un tema del programa. En este caso, hemos elegido el primero de los temas de la asigna- tura, esto es, la diferencia entre norma y uso y su (posible) aplicación didáctica en la Educación Primaria. Nuestro objetivo final, además de impartir la teoría so- bre el tema, ha sido el de desengañar al alumnado acerca de ciertos prejuicios lingüísticos preconcebidos que suele tener en mente la mayoría cuando acceden a la educación universitaria. Palabras clave: Lengua española, educación primaria, docencia universitaria, experimentación docente universitaria, ciclo de mejora en el aula.
Desarrollo de la Competencia Digital del alumnado de Pedagogía mediante TMOOC basado en el Marco DigCompEdu
Authors: Palacios Rodríguez Antonio
Published: April 2022

Este trabajo presenta la aplicación de un Ciclo de Mejora Docente en la asig- natura Tecnología Educativa, dentro del Grado en Pedagogía de la Universidad de Sevilla. En él, se trabajan conceptos relacionados con la Competencia Digital Do- cente: recursos digitales y pedagogía digital. Los resultados demuestran que el Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula, basado en un modelo de aprendizaje (DigCompEdu) a partir del uso de un TMOOC, sirve para aumentar el nivel de competencia digital del alumnado. Además, se evidencia el alto grado de implicación de los estudian- tes en el desarrollo de la propuesta formativa. Palabras clave: Tecnología educativa, grado en pedagogía, docencia universi- taria, desarrollo profesional docente, competencia digital.
Aula Invertida y trabajo en equipo: Aprendizaje de los estudiantes sobre Gestión de Enfermería
Authors: Guerra-Martín María Dolores
Published: April 2022

Se presentan tres Ciclos de Mejora en el Aula (CIMA) encadenados que se han llevado a cabo durante el primer cuatrimestre del curso 2021/2022, en la asignatura de Ética y Gestión de Enfermería, dentro del bloque temático de Gestión de Enfer- mería. Este consta de dos unidades temáticas, una de Sistemas sanitarios (CIMA 1) y otra del Proceso Administrativo (CIMA 2). La docencia se imparte en grupo grande y en grupo pequeño, este último mediante talleres (CIMA 3). Han participado en esta experiencia docente 34 estudiantes del grupo grande, donde se hicieron ocho equi- pos (4-5 estudiantes) y un grupo pequeño de 11 estudiantes con 3 equipos (3-4 es- tudiantes). Se ha llevado a cabo la metodología de Aprendizaje Invertido y trabajo en equipo colaborativo. En los mapas de contenidos se han presentado los con- tenidos conceptuales, procedimentales y actitudinales que se han trabajado a lo largo de los tres ciclos. Se ha seguido la secuencia de actividades planificadas an- tes de comenzar el curso. Los equipos tenían que anotar en un portafolio las du- das que les surgían, si las resolvían o no y los problemas según la temática tratada. Para llevar un seguimiento continuo de las clases la profesora ha llevado un diario de clases. Se crearon tres cuestionarios ad hoc, para la evaluación de conocimien- tos de los estudiantes (uno para cada CIMA), estos se administraban antes de em- pezar la docencia y al finalizar la misma. Se han obtenidos resultados favorables, ya que mayormente los estudiantes han aumentado sus conocimientos. Palabras clave: Ética y gestión de Enfermería, grado de enfermería, docencia universitaria, desarrollo profesional docente, aula invertida.
Experiencia docente en la aplicación del Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula en la asignatura de Bioética y Legislación Podológica
Authors: González Elena Mª Luisa
Published: April 2022

En este capítulo, se presenta un Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula que fue llevado a cabo durante el curso 2021-2022 en la asignatura de Bioética y Legislación Podoló- gica, impartida en el primer cuatrimestre del cuarto curso del Grado en Podología. La innovación fue desarrollada durante ocho sesiones en las que, fundamental- mente, se han trabajado los contenidos empleando el modelo metodológico ba- sado en el principio de investigación. Alrededor de 38 alumnos asistieron a clase durante esas sesiones, la mayoría de las veces trabajaron en grupos de aproxi- madamente 5 personas y, en general, decir que fueron muy participativos y re- flexivos facilitando así el desarrollo de la innovación. Por último, para evaluar los conocimientos adquiridos, se diseñó un cuestionario que fue pasado a los alum- nos antes y después de la aplicación del ciclo de mejora. Palabras clave: Bioética y legislación podológica, grado de podología, docen- cia universitaria, desarrollo profesional docente.
De la autoficción a la intertextualidad, comprender la poesía para escribirla: Un Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula para Escritura Creativa
Authors: Marías Clara
Published: April 2022

El presente trabajo es el resultado de la aplicación de un Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula (CIMA) en la asignatura «Escritura Creativa» de la Facultad de Comuni- cación de la Universidad de Sevilla. Esta propuesta tenía como objetivo abordar uno de los géneros que resulta más complicado para el alumnado, la poesía, para conseguir a un tiempo fomentar su lectura, análisis y comprensión, y demostrar a los alumnos la utilidad que puede tener escribir versos. Palabras clave: Escritura Creativa, Comunicación Audiovisual, docencia uni - versitaria, desarrollo profesional docente, escritura poética.
Renovar la docencia universitaria: propuesta de innovación docente en la asignatura Historia de al-Ándalus
Authors: Santos-de-la-Rosa Inmaculada
Published: April 2022

En esta comunicación se recoge el desarrollo del Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula (CIMA) aplicado en la asignatura de segundo curso del Grado en Estudios Árabes e Islámicos, Historia de al-Ándalus. El desarrollo del CIMA implica una revisión de contenidos y un cambio de modelo didáctico empleado hasta el momento en la asignatura. Teniendo en cuenta todas las variables posibles en el escenario docente actual y realizando las adaptaciones curriculares de manera coherente para un correcto desarrollo de esta propuesta de innovación docente, en este tra- bajo, se describen los principios metodológicos utilizados, el proceso de diseño, así como las actividades llevadas a cabo en su desarrollo. Finalmente, se ofrece una reflexión sobre la experiencia, que evidencia resultados satisfactorios, tanto en el grado de implicación del alumnado, como en la consecución de los objeti- vos de aprendizaje. Palabras clave: Historia de al-Ándalus, Grado en Estudios Árabes e Islámicos, docencia universitaria, desarrollo profesional docente, reinos de taifas.
Debates en el aula y colaboración de alumnado de cursos superiores en la asignatura de primero Lingüística
Authors: Mora Gutiérrez Juan Pablo
Published: April 2022

El presente trabajo es el resultado de la realización de un Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula (CIMA) de asignatura completa en Lingüística, asignatura de primero del Grado en Filología Hispánica, en la Facultad de Filología de la Universidad de Se- villa. Se incentivó la cooperación entre el alumnado de primero y el de los dos últimos cursos del grado para diseñar y llevar a cabo los retos y preparar los de- bates de los viernes. Se analiza la efectividad de los debates como herramienta de aprendizaje cuando se crea un entorno seguro en el que se lleva a cabo el contraste de ideas y en el que se pueden expresar todas las opiniones incluidas las más controvertidas. El nivel de satisfacción con los debates aumentó con res- pecto a cursos anteriores. Palabras clave: Lingüística, grado en Filología Hispánica, desarrollo profesio- nal docente, debates en la docencia universitaria, colaboración entre alumnado.
Androcentris no: detectando estereotipos de género y contenidos sexistas en la enseñanza de la lengua y literatura italiana
Authors: Cerrato Daniele
Published: April 2022

La propuesta es el resultado de un Ciclo de Mejora en el Aula (CIMA) de 15 horas en la asignatura Metodología de la Enseñanza de la lengua y literatura ita- liana del 4 año de la Mención de Italiano de varios grados de la Facultad de Filo- logía de la Universidad de Sevilla. El objetivo del CIMA ha sido reflexionar sobre la presencia de estereotipos de género y contenidos sexistas en la enseñanza de la lengua y literatura italiana. Se han propuesto diferentes actividades de con- traste y a través de un cuestionario inicial y final se ha observado la capacidad del alumnado de reflexionar y ser mas conscientes sobra un tema fundamental en el ámbito del proceso enseñanza-aprendizaje. Palabras clave: Metodología de la enseñanza de la lengua y literatura italiana, estereotipos de género, contenidos sexistas, desarrollo profesional docente.