bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in corneal stromal fibroblasts and keratocytes from healthy and keratoconus corneas
Authors: Berger Tim , Flockerzi Elias , Berger Maximilian , Chai Ning , Stachon Tanja , Szentmáry Nóra , Seitz Berthold
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To examine the in-vitro expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP) in corneal stromal cells by distinguishing between fibroblasts and keratocytes of healthy and keratoconus (KC) corneas.

Methods

Stromal cells were isolated from healthy and KC corneas (n = 8). A normal-glucose, serum-containing cell culture medium (NGSC-medium) was used for cultivation of healthy human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs) and KC human corneal fibroblasts (KC-HCFs). In order to obtain a keratocyte phenotype, the initial cultivation with NGSC-medium was changed to a low-glucose, serum-free cell culture medium for healthy (Keratocytes) and KC cells (KC-Keratocytes). Gene and protein expression of MMP-1, -2, -3, -7, -9 and TIMP-1, -2, -3 were measured by quantitative PCR and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) from the cell culture supernatant.

Results

KC-HCFs demonstrated a lower mRNA gene expression for MMP-2 compared to HCFs. In contrast to their respective fibroblast groups (either HCFs or KC-HCFs), Keratocytes showed a higher mRNA gene expression of TIMP-3, whereas TIMP-1 mRNA gene expression was lower in Keratocytes and KC-Keratocytes. Protein analysis of the cell culture supernatant revealed lower concentrations of MMP-1 in KC-HCFs compared to HCFs. Compared to Keratocytes, TIMP-1 concentrations was lower in the cell culture supernatant of KC-Keratocytes. In HCFs and KC-HCFs, protein levels of MMP-1 and TIMP-1 were higher and MMP-2 was lower compared to Keratocytes and KC-Keratocytes, respectively.

Conclusion

This study indicates an imbalance in MMP and TIMP expression between healthy and diseased cells. Furthermore, differences in the expression of MMPs and TIMPs exist between corneal fibroblasts and keratocytes, which could influence the specific proteolytic metabolism in-vivo and contribute to the progression of KC.
Long-term follow-up of pilonidal sinus disease treated by radial laser surgery
Authors: Karita Koskinen , Adalia Lindström , Tuija Poussa , Jukka Harju , Kethe Hermunen
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Laser ablation is one of the newest and most advanced minimally invasive techniques in treating pilonidal sinus disease (PSD). Most studies on the subject have small sample sizes and relatively short follow-up times, making evaluation of long-term healing rates and recurrences difficult. Furthermore, long-term results for laser surgery of PSD are still lacking. The aim of this study was to retrospectively report long-term follow-up results for PSD treatment by radial laser surgery.

Methods

We retrospectively studied the medical records of 83 patients who underwent the radial laser procedure for PSD between January 2017 and September 2019. Our follow-up time was a median of 5.2 years, range 1.5 to 7.4 years.

Results

Twelve patients had a PSD recurrence after their laser procedure, which gives a recurrence rate of 14.5% (95% CI 8.2%-23.2%). These recurrences appeared at a median 12.2 months after the laser procedure, range 4.2 to 51 months. A total of 23 patients (27.7%; 95% CI 19.0–38.0) underwent a reoperation, 11 patients due to postoperative infection or prolonged recovery and 12 patients due to PSD recurrence. Recurrent PSD and spillage of pus during operation were statistically significantly associated with the need for a second operation.

Conclusion

Radial laser surgery provides a minimally invasive treatment option with an acceptable recurrence rate in long-term follow-up.
Perinatal risk factors of renal outcome in former extremely low birth weight neonates
Authors: Colleman Marieke , Staessen Jan A. , Allegaert Karel , Raaijmakers Anke
Published: August 2024

Former Extremely Low Birthweight (ELBW) neonates suffer from adverse renal and cardiovascular outcomes later in life. Less is known about additional perinatal risk factors for these adverse outcomes which we have investigated in this study. We compared renal outcome between ELBW children and controls, to find perinatal risk factors for poorer renal outcome and to unveil associations between kidney function and blood pressure. This study included 93 former ELBW children and 87 healthy controls with a mean age of 11 years at assessment. We measured cystatin C-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and blood pressure. Blood pressure and eGFR levels were compared between cases and controls. We subsequently investigated perinatal risk factors for adverse outcome amongst ELBW children. ELBW children have significantly higher blood pressure (mean SBP percentile 75thvs. 47th, p <0.001) and lower mean eGFR (94 vs. 107 ml/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.005) compared to the control group. Elevated blood pressure did not correlate with perinatal characteristics and none of them had microalbuminuria. ELBW children with eGFR <90 ml/min/1.73 m2 were ventilated longer (17 vs. 9 days, p = 0.006), more frequently male (OR = 3.33, p = 0.055) and tended to suffer more from intraventricular hemorrhage (40% vs. 15.8%, p = 0.056). There was no association between blood pressure and kidney dysfunction. Conclusions: Understanding risk profiles for unfavorable outcomes may help to identify children at increased risk for kidney dysfunction. Poorer eGFR was associated with longer ventilation, male sex, and intra-ventricular hemorrhage but not with blood pressure. This knowledge can lead to safer neonatal therapeutic regimens for ELBW infants, a more intensive follow-up and earlier treatment initiation for children at highest risk.

What is Known:• Extremely Low Birthweight (ELBW) neonates suffer later in life from adverse renal and cardiovascular outcomes.• Perinatal risk factors that further predict the individual risk for adverse outcomes are not well known.

What is New:• Poorer eGFR in adolescence was associated with male sex, longer ventilation and intra-ventricular hemorrhage at birth but not with blood pressure.• Former ELBW infants had higher blood pressures compared to controls, but no microalbuminuria.• This knowledge can lead to potential precision medicine, safer neonatal therapeutic regimens for ELBW infants, a more intensive follow-up and earlier treatment initiation for children at highest risk.
Isolated pulmonary valve endocarditis
Authors: Valsky Sonja , Mutschlechner David , Wiedemann Dominik , Gremmel Thomas
Published: August 2024

Isolated pulmonary valve endocarditis (IPE) is a rare form of infectious endocarditis. This article reports the case of a 49-year-old patient with IPE who was initially admitted with suspected cholecystitis. After vegetations were detected by transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), antibiotic therapy in accordance with the antibiogram was primarily attempted; however, due to persistently elevated infection parameters and structural valve damage a pulmonary valve replacement was eventually performed.
Ultrasound evaluation of radial nerve injuries by cortex overlapping screw tips after internal fixation of humeral fractures: a cadaveric study
Authors: Lorenzana David , Spicher Anna , Beeres Frank J. P. , Moriggl Bernhard , Bomberg Hagen , Eichenberger Urs
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The radial nerve may be painfully irritated or damaged by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of humeral fractures. Secondary radial nerve lesions after ORIF of humeral shaft fractures are described in up to 16%. Not only peripheral nerves but also orthopaedic instruments and osteosynthesis material are well visible by ultrasound. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of ultrasound in assessing the relation between the bone overlapping screw tips and the radial nerve close to the humeral bone.

Methods

Ultrasound-guided drilling was used to place screws as close as possible to the radial nerve in 8 humeral bones of four cadavers. The relation between the radial nerve and the screw tips was assessed by high-resolution ultrasound, and the overlap of all screw tips over the bone was measured by ultrasound and fluoroscopy. Thereafter, the findings were validated by anatomical dissection.

Results

We could correctly identify all screw tips and their relation to the radial nerve by ultrasound. In 7 of 8 cases, the screw tip had direct contact with the radial nerve. The overlaying length of the screw tip was accurately measured by using ultrasound in all cases. In contrast fluoroscopy underestimated this length in 50% of cases.

Conclusion

With this study, we show that ultrasound can reliable visualize the screw tips and its relation to the radial nerve. Ultrasound is a promising diagnostic tool to evaluate patients with radial nerve irritations or lesions after ORIF of humeral fractures. Furthermore, ultrasound could be an adequate tool to guide drilling.
Exploring the influence of silicon oxide microchips shape on cellular uptake using imaging flow cytometry
Authors: Bruce Gordon , Bagherpour Saman , Duch Marta , Plaza José Antonio , Stolnik Snow , Pérez-García Lluïsa
Published: August 2024

Nano- and micro-carriers of therapeutic molecules offer numerous advantages for drug delivery, and the shape of these particles plays a vital role in their biodistribution and their interaction with cells. However, analysing how microparticles are taken up by cells presents methodological challenges. Qualitative methods like microscopy provide detailed imaging but are time-consuming, whereas quantitative methods such as flow cytometry enable high-throughput analysis but struggle to differentiate between internalised and surface-bound particles. Instead, imaging flow cytometry combines the best of both worlds, offering high-resolution imaging with the efficiency of flow cytometry, allowing for quantitative analysis at the single-cell level. This study focuses on fluorescently labelled silicon oxide microchips of various morphologies but related surface areas and volumes: rectangular cuboids and apex-truncated square pyramid microchips fabricated using photolithography techniques, offering a reliable basis for comparison with the more commonly studied spherical particles. Imaging flow cytometry was utilised to evaluate the effect of particle shape on cellular uptake using RAW 264.7 cells and revealed phagocytosis of particles with all shapes. Increasing the particle dose enhanced the uptake, while macrophage stimulation had minimal effect. Using a ratio particle:cell of 10:1 cuboids and spheres showed an uptake rate of approximately 50%, in terms of the percentage of cells with internalised particles, and the average number of particles taken up per cell ranging from about 1–1.5 particle/cell for all the different shapes. This study indicates how differently shaped micro-carriers offer insights into particle uptake variations, demonstrating the potential of non-spherical micro-carriers for precise drug delivery applications.

Graphical Abstract
Large language models: a new approach for privacy policy analysis at scale
Authors: Rodriguez David , Yang Ian , Del Alamo Jose M. , Sadeh Norman
Published: August 2024

The number and dynamic nature of web sites and mobile applications present regulators and app store operators with significant challenges when it comes to enforcing compliance with applicable privacy and data protection laws. Over the past several years, people have turned to Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques to automate privacy compliance analysis (e.g., comparing statements in privacy policies with analysis of the code and behavior of mobile apps) and to answer people’s privacy questions. Traditionally, these NLP techniques have relied on labor-intensive and potentially error-prone manual annotation processes to build the corpora necessary to train them. This article explores and evaluates the use of Large Language Models (LLMs) as an alternative for effectively and efficiently identifying and categorizing a variety of data practice disclosures found in the text of privacy policies. Specifically, we report on the performance of ChatGPT and Llama 2, two particularly popular LLM-based tools. This includes engineering prompts and evaluating different configurations of these LLM techniques. Evaluation of the resulting techniques on well-known corpora of privacy policy annotations yields an F1 score exceeding 93%. This score is higher than scores reported earlier in the literature on these benchmarks. This performance is obtained at minimal marginal cost (excluding the cost required to train the foundational models themselves). These results, which are consistent with those reported in other domains, suggest that LLMs offer a particularly promising approach to automated privacy policy analysis at scale.
Caloric restriction mimetics improve gut microbiota: a promising neurotherapeutics approach for managing age-related neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Singh Ishika , Anand Shashi , Gowda Deepashree J. , Kamath Amitha , Singh Abhishek Kumar
Published: August 2024

The gut microbiota (GM) produces various molecules that regulate the physiological functionality of the brain through the gut-brain axis (GBA). Studies suggest that alteration in GBA may lead to the onset and progression of various neurological dysfunctions. Moreover, aging is one of the prominent causes that contribute to the alteration of GBA. With age, GM undergoes a shift in population size and species of microflora leading to changes in their secreted metabolites. These changes also hamper communications among the HPA (hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal), ENS (enteric nervous system), and ANS (autonomic nervous system). A therapeutic intervention that has recently gained attention in improving health and maintaining communication between the gut and the brain is calorie restriction (CR), which also plays a critical role in autophagy and neurogenesis processes. However, its strict regime and lifelong commitment pose challenges. The need is to produce similar beneficial effects of CR without having its rigorous compliance. This led to an exploration of calorie restriction mimetics (CRMs) which could mimic CR’s functions without limiting diet, providing long-term health benefits. CRMs ensure the efficient functioning of the GBA through gut bacteria and their metabolites i.e., short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, and neurotransmitters. This is particularly beneficial for elderly individuals, as the GM deteriorates with age and the body’s ability to digest the toxic accumulates declines. In this review, we have explored the beneficial effect of CRMs in extending lifespan by enhancing the beneficial bacteria and their effects on metabolite production, physiological conditions, and neurological dysfunctions including neurodegenerative disorders.
The Relationship Between Self-Regulated Learning and Executive Functions—a Systematic Review
Authors: Dörrenbächer-Ulrich Laura , Bregulla Marius
Published: August 2024

Self-regulated learning (SRL) and executive functions (EF) are broad concepts stemming from different research areas. They have been defined and modeled in various ways and are repeatedly related to each other in the literature, but so far, no systematic analyses of these relations have been published. Therefore, a systematic analysis of their relationships described in the literature was conducted. Nineteen studies were synthesized concerning different categories (age groups, measurement methods, role of metacognition, relation to achievement, and longitudinal/intervention studies). In general, primarily low to moderate correlational relationships between SRL and EF were reported, with no detectable pattern depending on the age group. Measurement methods used to capture SRL and EF seem to influence the size of the correlations, with indirect measures correlating higher than direct/indirect measures. In addition, there is evidence that metacognition mediates the relationship between EF and SRL. In general, the notion that EF predicts SRL but not vice versa is supported. Following the systematic review, the results are critically discussed in the light of non-generalizable samples, measurement methods, and results interpretation issues. Suggestions for theory building and promising future research are given.
The Fiji Dragonplum Dracontomelon vitiense Engl. (Anacardiaceae): a locally important but neglected fruit and timber tree endemic to the western Pacific region
Authors: Müller Jonas V.
Published: August 2024

This article provides an overview over taxonomy, distribution, cultivation and use of the Fiji Dragonplum, Dracontomelon vitiense Engl. The species belongs to the Anacardiaceae family with about 860 species in 83 genera. The majority of its species are distributed in warm subtropical and tropical areas. Among them, there are economically important timber, fruit and nut trees. Species in the genus Dracontomelon are distributed from tropical Asia to the south–western parts of the Pacific. Dracontomelon vitiense is endemic to the western Pacific region, from Santa Cruz Islands (Solomon Islands), Vanuatu, Fiji (including Rotuma), Tonga, Futuna, to Upolu (Samoa). It is a tall canopy tree and occurs predominantly at altitudes from sea level to 200–300 m asl. Dracontomelon vitiense is valued as a locally important, native fruit and timber tree. Although being a wild species, it is often planted in gardens and villages. Its fruits are widely consumed and sold in local markets. Dracontomelon vitiense produces commercially valuable timber, which is used for light constructions, furniture, canoes, wood carving, and as firewood. Dracontomelon vitiense can be considered a neglected tree for the Pacific region, with no active breeding going on. The species retains a large potential for improvement, commercialisation and income generation and as a component in sustainable agroforestry production systems however no figures about its commercial use are available. Ex-situ gene bank accessions of Dracontomelon vitiense are not available. No information exists about the genetic variation of the species. Several lines of future research are suggested.
A Mixed Methods, Critical, Participatory Approach for Studying Rural Black Youth’s Postsecondary Education Access and Opportunity
Authors: Means Darris R. , Chapman-Hilliard Collette , Lindsey Donnie , Page Ciara H. , Hayes Briana , Mann Destiny
Published: August 2024

While researchers have used qualitative and quantitative methods to study postsecondary education access opportunity for rural Black youth, the use of critical mixed methods approaches to examine postsecondary education inequities for rural Black youth is unrealized. The purpose of this paper is to highlight lessons learned in using equity-centered, participatory approaches to study postsecondary education access and opportunity for rural Black youth and to develop a critical, asset-based scale to quantitatively investigate postsecondary education opportunity and access for rural Black youth. This study is informative for researchers seeking to develop critical, asset-based measures and instruments, and for educators and policymakers seeking to attend to place-based and racial educational inequities.
Investigation of Space-Time Dynamics of Akbota Equation using Sardar Sub-Equation and Khater Methods: Unveiling Bifurcation and Chaotic Structure
Authors: Tariq Muhammad Moneeb , Riaz Muhammad Bilal , Aziz-ur-Rehman Muhammad
Published: August 2024

This paper focuses on obtaining exact solutions of nonlinear Akbota equation through the application of the modified Khater method and Sardar sub-equation method. Renowned as one of the latest and precise analytical schemes for nonlinear evolution equations, this method has proven its efficacy by generating diverse solutions for the model under consideration. The equation is crucial in the study of optical solitons, which are stable pulses of light that maintain their shape over long distances. The Akbota equation helps in understanding the behavior and stability of these solitons. The governing equation undergoes transformation into an ordinary differential equation through a well-suited wave transformation. This analytical simplification paves the way for the derivation of trigonometric, hyperbolic, and rational solutions through the proposed methods. To illuminate the physical behavior of the model, the study presents graphical plots of the selected solutions of Khater and Sardar sub-equation method. This visual representation, achieved by selecting appropriate values for arbitrary parameters, enhances the understanding of the system’s dynamics. All calculations in this study are meticulously conducted using the Mathematica and Maple software, ensuring accuracy and reliability in the analysis of the obtained solution. Furthermore we investigate the sensitivity analysis of the dynamical system.
Exploring the Determinants of Student Attitudes towards Corruption in Guatemala: Are Economics Students Different?
Authors: Arce José Luis Álvarez , Rodríguez-Tejedo Isabel , Erro María Jesús Valdemoros
Published: August 2024

This study explores the micro-determinants of corruption tolerance among 1414 university students in Guatemala, a country grappling with significant corruption issues. By examining the attitudes of economics majors compared to students in other disciplines through ordered logistic regression analysis, we offer new insights into factors influencing corruption tolerance in a developing country setting. This approach, by focusing on a developing country, fills a research gap in the literature on the differences between economics students and their peers from other programs. We find that economics students exhibit a greater tolerance for corruption. This result aligns with theories and research that suggest that economists show a profit-maximizing mindset, and distinctive values and fairness perceptions. Furthermore, our analysis reveals significant effects of gender and age on corruption tolerance, with women and older students reporting lower tolerance to corrupt practices. The study also uncovers the higher tolerance towards private versus public corruption. These findings provide valuable guidance for developing policies and educational initiatives to reduce corruption tolerance among future professionals in similar socio-economic environments.
Efficient metal ions biosorption on red and green algae biomass: Isotherm, kinetic and thermodynamic study
Authors: Ciobanu Alina-Alexandra , Lucaci Alina-Roxana , Bulgariu Laura
Published: August 2024

In this study two types of marine algae: red algae (Callithamnion corymbosum – CC-RAB) and green algae (Ulva lactuca – UL-GAB), were used for the retention of Cu2+, Zn2+ and Co2+ ions from aqueous media, by biosorption. Both types of marine algae are abundant on the Romanian coast of the Black Sea and, since they have no uses, they represent a serious problem for the beach area. Therefore, their use as biosorbents for the recovery of some metal ions of strategic industrial importance (such as Cu2+, Zn2+ and Co2+ ions) may represent a way to valorise this biomass resource. In order to evaluate the biosorptive performances of the red algae biomass (CC-RAB) and green algae biomass (UL-GAB), batch experimental studies were carried out at different initial solution pH, biosorbent dose, initial metal ions concentration contact time and temperature. The optimal conditions (pH = 5.0; 2.0 g biosorbent L-1, 3 h, 25 ±1 °C) were then used to obtain kinetic curves and biosorption isotherms, which were modelled. The pseudo-second order kinetic model best fits the kinetic data, while the biosorption isotherms are described by the Langmuir model, for all studied metal ions on both biosorbents. The maximum biosorption capacity depends on the nature of algae biosorbent, and follows the order: Cu2+ (81.25 mg g-1) > Zn2+ (73.69 mg g-1) > Co2+ (27.89 mg g-1) in the case of CC-RAB, and Zn2+ (69.29 mg g-1) > Cu2+ (43.47 mg g-1) > Co2+ (26.15 mg g-1) in the case of UL-GAB. The thermodynamic parameters (∆G0, ∆H0 and ∆S0) were also evaluated, and the obtained values indicate that all biosorption processes are spontaneous and endothermic. In addition, desorption of metal ions is quantitative in acid media, but the biosorption capacities decrease significantly after the first cycle of use. All these aspects have important environmental implications, and may provide benchmarks in the design of a strategy for the valorisation of this biomass resource.
“Who Comes Next?”: Planning and Managing Sustainable Initiatives that Facilitate Family Business Succession
Authors: Prazeres Vasco M. C. E. , Ferreira Fernando A. F. , Ferreira Neuza C. M. Q. F. , Ferreira João J. M. , Meidutė-Kavaliauskienė Ieva
Published: August 2024

Family businesses are increasingly recognized for their significance in the global economy, constituting a growing portion of companies worldwide and elevating the importance of this topic on governmental agendas. Unique challenges confront family firms, intertwining business decisions with familial repercussions. Among these challenges, the succession process emerges as a critical threat to their continuity. Inadequate solutions to the question of succession often lead to organizational failure, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue. This study endeavors to construct an analysis model to support decision-makers throughout the succession journey, integrating a constructivist approach that merges cognitive mapping and interpretive structural modeling (ISM). This dual methodology facilitates the swift identification and analysis of factors crucial for smoother family business succession. The model development leverages insights from an expert panel and entails delineating cause-and-effect relationships among identified determinants and prioritizing these factors based on their significance. Subsequently, the model undergoes validation through a consolidation session with experts from the Associação de Empresas Familiares (i.e., Family Business Association in Portuguese), who assess its practical applicability. This includes perspectives from a Brazilian expert renowned for his understanding of family business dynamics within an emerging economy—Brazil. The insights gleaned from these sessions inform recommendations on implementing the tested procedures within real-life family enterprises, thereby contributing to the sustainability and longevity of these businesses.
Analysis of perioperative autonomic nervous system activity to visualize stress in pediatric patients undergoing alveolar bone graft surgery
Authors: Uto Akari , Yamashita Kaoru , Yoshimine Shusei , Uchino Minako , Kibe Toshiro , Sugimura Mitsutaka
Published: August 2024

Perioperative stress in pediatric patients is often difficult to assess via interviews; thus, an objective measure to assess perioperative stress is needed. To visualize perioperative stress, we observed autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity, circulatory dynamics, and psychological status in pediatric patients undergoing alveolar bone grafting under general anesthesia. This prospective observational study included 40 patients aged 8–12 years who were scheduled for alveolar bone grafting in our hospital. ANS activity was analyzed using heart rate variability the day before surgery, during general anesthesia, 2 h postoperatively, 24 h postoperatively, and the day before discharge. ANS assessment included LF/HF (sympathetic nervous system activity) and HF (parasympathetic nervous system activity). Additionally, heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), face scale (FS) score were recorded. Data from 31 patients, excluding dropouts, were analyzed. The ratio of change to the preoperative value was compared. After surgery, the LF/HF, HR, SBP, and FS score significantly increased (P < 0.01) and HF significantly decreased (2 h postoperatively: P < 0.05, 24 h postoperatively, before discharge: P < 0.01). SBP recovered to preoperative values 24 h postoperatively, and HR and FS scores recovered to preoperative values before discharge. However, even before discharge, LF/HF remained significantly higher than preoperative values, and HF remained significantly lower than preoperative values (P < 0.01). Conclusion We observed perioperative stress from multiple perspectives. Circulatory dynamics and psychological status recovered by the day before discharge; however, ANS activity did not. Therefore, evaluating ANS activity may be useful in visualizing potential perioperative stress in pediatric patients.
An Experiential Approach to Training Medical Faculty to Coach: “The Total Experience was Much More Than the Sum of Its Parts”
Authors: Mukherjee Binata , Smith Rebecca , Khalsa Gurupreet
Published: August 2024

Coaching in academic medicine may be used for performance improvement as well as personal and professional growth and development. Medical faculty used to advising and mentoring learners may find it challenging to transition to coaching. Limited information is available about educating physicians to take on the role of coaching. We investigated a faculty coach training program at an academic medical center, using qualitative methods to explore how participants’ perceptions of the training aligned with the elements of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Intentional Change Theory (ICT) that were taught using the principles of Experiential Learning Theory (ELT). Based on findings that illuminated understanding and practice of coaching, it may be summarized that the application of experiential learning may be an effective approach in helping faculty embrace the principles of SDT and ICT and make the shift to transformational coaching.
Understanding Australian Massage Therapists’ Attitudes and Confidence to Respond to Domestic and Family Violence in Clinical Practice: Findings From a Community Survey
Authors: Fogarty Sarah , Hay Phillipa , Baird Kathleen
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To investigate massage therapists’ attitudes, consultation processes, and confidence to respond to situations involving domestic and family violence (DFV) in clinical practice.

Methods

An online survey-based study was conducted and Australian massage therapists, 18 years of age or over were recruited. The survey included 64 questions in 3 sections: 1) Demographics, 2) Recognize Family and Domestic Violence, and 3) Respond to domestic and family violence with 4 subsections; i) disclosures, ii) referrals, iii) further education, and iv) final comments.

Results

Two-hundred and seventeen respondents were included in the analysis. Knowledge about DFV, having a client disclose DFV and confidence to manage a disclosure, were all significantly higher with massage therapists with a personal experience of DFV. The main qualitative theme was antithetical attitudes with two subthemes: a) not in my world: I’d be enormously surprised that a person in an abusive environment would come in for a massage, b) in my world: I want to be prepared.

Conclusion

Having personal experience of DFV significantly impacted the way that respondents felt about and managed DFV in their clinic. Several massage therapists’ who had no personal experience of DFV demonstrated a lack of knowledge about DFV and less confidence to respond to it in their clinic. It is important to upskill and educate massage therapists, particularly those with no personal experience, to improve their confidence to have discussions around DFV and to respond to DFV disclosures.
Perception of Health Risks of Electronic Cigarette Use Among College Students: Examining the Roles of Sex, Field of Study, Vaping Device Type, and Their Associations
Authors: Vilcassim M. J. Ruzmyn , Stowe Samuel , Zierold Kristina Marie
Published: August 2024

Electronic cigarettes are marketed as a safer alternative to regular (combustible) cigarettes, based on the claim that there is no tobacco burning and fewer toxic chemicals in their vapor. However, recent evidence challenges the notion that e-cigarette aerosols are benign. Heating of compounds in e-liquids to high temperatures can lead to the release of toxic compounds in e-cigarette aerosols. However, users and the public may not be aware of these unique harms, impacting their perception of harm from using e-cigarettes. This research explored the perceptions of harm of e-cigarettes compared to regular cigarettes among 418 college students, aged 18–34, by employing a Qualtrics based smartphone survey. The findings revealed a vaping prevalence of 16.7% among our study population, indicating e-cigarette use among college aged young adults is at concerning levels. Perceptions of harm varied significantly by vaping status, sex, and field of study. Non-e-cigarette users and female students were less likely to perceive e-cigarettes as less harmful than regular cigarettes. Among e-cigarette users (vapers), male vapers and users of pod-type devices, such as JUUL and disposables, were more inclined to view e-cigarettes as less harmful. Among vapers, students in non-health-related fields were significantly more likely to perceive e-cigarettes as less harmful than regular cigarettes, underscoring the impact of educational background on health risk awareness. In conclusion, this study provides crucial insights into the varied perceptions of e-cigarettes among young adults. The results emphasize the need for targeted public health interventions and educational efforts to address this growing public health concern.
Regaining Mental Well-Being in the Aftermath of the Covid-19 Pandemic with a Digital Multicomponent Positive Psychology Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tönis Kim J. M. , Kraiss Jannis T. , Drossaert Constance H. C. , Karreman Joyce , Oostinga Miriam S. D. , Kloos Noortje , Austin Judith , Bohlmeijer Ernst T.
Published: August 2024

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of a 3-week multicomponent positive psychology self-help application on ability to adapt and mental well-being in the following the Covid-19 pandemic in adults with mild to moderate anxiety and depression levels. Outcomes were assessed online at baseline, posttest (three weeks after baseline), and follow-up (12 weeks after baseline). The intervention group (n = 118) received the application after baseline, whereas the control group (n = 116) received the app after completing posttest. Linear mixed models showed significant effects on ability to adapt, mental well-being, anxiety, depression, spiritual well-being, and self-compassion at post-test compared to the control condition (d = 0.56–0.96). Effects in the intervention group were maintained at follow-up. Results suggest that a multicomponent positive psychology self-help application can support adults with distress to recover after a psychologically disruptive pandemic.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05292560).
Energetic Tagged Zirconium-Based Metal-Organic Framework: A Novel Catalyst and High Energy Dense Material for Solid Propellants
Authors: Sheashea Mohamed , Gobara Mohamed , Naeem Ibrahim , Zorainy Mahmoud Y. , Ismael Shukri , Elbasuney Sherif
Published: August 2024

Catalyst for ammonium percholorate (AP) decomposition was limited to inert particles, with subsequent decrease in main decomposition temperature. Recently much attention has been directed to reactive catalyst particles with high decomposition enthalpy. Energetic metal-organic frameworks (EMOFs) could contribute to the decomposition enthalpy; with the exclusive evolution of catalyst nanoparticles. UiO-66-NH2 is a three-dimensional metal-organic framework (MOF) composed of tetravalent metal ions Zr(IV) and ditopic 2-Amino Terephthalic acid linker (H2ATPT). UiO-66-NH2 is multi-functional MOF with exceptional surface area and thermal stability. UiO-66-NH2 can expose superior combustion enthalpy of 18 KJ/g. This study reports on facile solvothermal synthesis of UiO-66-NH2; that was integrated into ammonium percholorate (AP) matrix via anti-solvent technique. UiO-66-NH2 boosted AP decomposition enthalpy by + 227.3%, with decrease in main decomposition temperature by 92.72 °C. Decomposition kinetics was investigated via isoconversional (model free) and model fitting. Kissinger, Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), integral isoconversional method of Ozawa and Flyn and Wall (FWO). UiO-66-NH2/AP demonstrated apparent activation energy of 75 KJ mol− 1 compared with 176.1 KJ mol− 1 for virgin AP. While virgin AP experienced complex decomposition models beginning with F3 to A2; UiO-66-NH2/AP nanocomposite demonstrated A3 decomposition model. The developed UiO-66-NH2 exposed a dual function as high energy dense material with superior catalytic effect due to the exclusive evolution c-ZrO2 nanocatalyst on decomposition.
Heat of Dilution and Racemization of Chiral Amino Acid Solutions
Authors: Oliel Matan , Mastai Yitzhak
Published: August 2024

Chiral interactions play a crucial role in both chemistry and biology. Understanding the behavior of chiral molecules and their interactions with other molecules is essential, and chiral interactions in solutions are particularly important for studying chiral compounds. Chirality influences the physical and chemical properties of molecules, including solubility, reactivity, and biological activity. In this work, we used isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), a powerful technique for studying molecular interactions, including chiral interactions in solutions. We conducted a series of ITC measurements to investigate the heat of dilution and the heat of racemization of several amino acids (Asparagine, Histidine, Serine, Alanine, Methionine, and Phenylalanine). We also performed ITC measurements under different solute concentrations and temperatures to examine the effects of these parameters on chiral interactions, as well as the heat of dilution and racemization. The results of our measurements indicated that the heat of dilution, specifically the interactions between the solvent (water) and solute (chiral molecules), had a significant impact compared to the chiral interactions in the solution, which were found to be negligible. This suggests that the interactions between chiral molecules and the solvent play a more dominant role in determining the overall behavior and properties of the system. By studying chiral interactions in solutions, we can gain valuable insights into the behavior of chiral compounds, which can have implications in various fields, including drug design, chemical synthesis, and biological processes.
Production of no-carrier-added aqueous 198Au3+ ions in a Szilárd-Chalmers-like nuclear reaction
Authors: Boya Dominik , Nemetz Markus , Welch Jan M. , Rosecker Veronika , Sterba Johannes H. , Hainz Dieter , Feng Bin , Steinhauser Georg
Published: August 2024

Neutron irradiation of gold foils in H2O causes the release of 198Au into the liquid in measurable quantities. Experiments prove that irradiation of the foils in water indeed yields 10 times more activity in the liquid than when the foil is removed from the liquid before irradiation. The activity of the gold foil shows no correlation with the yield of ejected 198Au ions, but the duration of neutron irradiation does. However, not all experiments are fully conclusive as no linearity between irradiation duration and emitted 198Au is apparent. A speciation experiment by crystallization reveals that the nuclear reaction produces 198Au3+ ions quantitatively.
A comparative study on the application of solar thermal collector and photovoltaic combinations to assist an air source heat pump
Authors: Buyukzeren Riza , Kahraman Ali
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the usage of photovoltaic (PV) and thermal collectors separately to assist a heat pump for supplying domestic hot water (DHW). Usage of PV and thermal collectors together to assist a heat pump and experimentally validated simulation of an air source heat pump can be considered as novelty of this study. Firstly, experimental tests were performed in a climatic room to validate the developed simulation model. Four experimental parameters, namely the coefficient of performance of the air source heat pump, average tank temperature, and heat pump inlet and outlet temperatures have been used for the validation and the highest obtained deviation was 4.5%. Simulations were carried out by adding thermal collectors and photovoltaic panels in different combinations, with a maximum of three collectors to assist the heat pump that provides DHW. For scenarios with one and two solar components (PV or thermal), applying only thermal collectors was more efficient and economical for both with a payback of 3.9 years and 4.3 years, respectively. For the scenario with three solar components, although the system supported by one thermal and two photovoltaic collectors was the most efficient option, the system supported by three photovoltaic collectors was the most economical scenario with a payback period of 4.6 years. The study found that combining thermal and photovoltaic collectors can significantly reduce energy consumption for DHW.
Principal agency 50 years after the Lau decision: Building and sustaining bilingual education programs for Asian languages
Authors: Tian Zhongfeng , Wong Kevin M.
Published: August 2024

This study examined how three champion principals of Asian language dual language bilingual education (DLBE) programs—Cantonese, Korean, and Mandarin—in California have navigated the oscillating language-in-education policies after the Lau decision. We explored principals' various roles through a lens of agency in a social justice leadership framework, specifically considering the opportunities and challenges for agentive leadership from three different phases: foregrounding and engaging, planning and implementing, and evaluating and sustaining. Findings demonstrate that the success of DLBE programs goes beyond the overarching language policies that supposedly enable bilingual education; rather it hinges on the bottom-up commitment, collaboration and resilience of principals, teachers, and parent communities. The blanket policies at the state level often overlooked Asian languages and the unique needs of Asian teachers and communities in DLBE schools, limiting principal agency. Within these confines, principals consistently engaged in advocacy work, such as in teacher recruitment, hiring and work distribution, and curriculum design and assessment, contributing to the growth and sustainability of their programs. By elevating these champions and their experiences and perspectives, this study reflects upon the politicized path to bilingual education 50 years after the Lau case and contributes valuable insights to inform future implementational research, practice, and policy, ensuring the continued flourishing of Asian language bilingual education for the growing constituency of Asian-identifying students.
One pot multi-component synthesis of novel functionalized pyrazolo furan-2(5H)-one derivatives: in vitro, DFT, molecular docking, and pharmacophore studies, as coronavirus inhibitors
Authors: Elsisi Doaa M. , Mohamed Ashraf M. , Seadawy Mohamed G. , Ahmed Aya , Abou-Amra Eman S.
Published: August 2024

New and facile one-pot approach for the syntheses of 12 derivatives of 3,5-disubstituted furane-2(5H)-one (4a–l) from easily available starting materials. The suitable synthetic procedures for selective synthesis of diverse furane-2(5H)-one derivatives were achieved via multi-component condensation of 1,3-diphenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde (1), pyruvic acid and different aromatic amines 3a–l in good to high yields and short reaction time by refluxing in acetic acid as well as obtained by another method (method B) when unsaturated arylidene pyruvic acid 6 was refluxed with different aromatic amines in acetic acid but in smaller yield than method A. Structures of the prepared compounds were elucidated by elemental analysis and spectral data as mass, IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. The antiviral efficacy of compounds 4a–l against SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated using the MTT assay. It was demonstrated that synthetic compounds 4c–e and 4h–j have a potent and selective inhibitory effect on SARS-CoV-2, a strain obtained from Egyptian patients. We utilized density-functional theory (DFT) analyses to deduce the molecular structures and topologies of the more energetic molecules. Molecular docking studies were performed against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (PDB ID: 6Y84) and the SARS-CoV-2 Nsp9 RNA binding protein (PDB ID: 6W4B) to study the binding mechanism, non-bonding interactions, and binding affinity. Lastly, a hypothetical pharmacophore model was constructed by applying the Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) tool and eleven pharmaceuticals with proven antiviral activity.
Design of an on-chip germanium cavity for room-temperature infrared lasing
Authors: Boztug Cicek
Published: August 2024

Germanium (Ge) is one of the most promising material platforms to enable the realization of monolithically integrated laser on silicon because it is a group-IV material with a pseudo-direct-band structure that can be converted into direct-bandgap either through the application of tensile strain or via the tin (Sn) incorporation in Ge. The bandgap modification enhances the light emission efficiency of Ge, where lasing can also be observed if a suitable cavity preserving the strain can be realized. In fact, several different research groups have reported lasing from strained Ge and GeSn optical cavities, however they all report lasing at low temperatures and room-temperature lasing, which is the ultimate goal required for a fully integrated laser, has not been demonstrated yet. In this work, we design an on-chip germanium cavity that has all the ingredients combined to make the room-temperature lasing possible. The design includes a 4.6% uniaxially tensile strained Ge gain medium embedded in a Fabry-Perot like cavity composed of two distributed Bragg reflectors. 3-dimensional (3D) Finite Element Method (FEM) based strain simulations together with a proposed fabrication methodology provides a guideline for the realization of the structure. Furthermore, 3D Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) simulations demonstrate that the designed structure is suitable for the room-temperature lasing in a wavelength range of 2410–2570 nm. 3D FEM-based heat transfer simulations performed for the designed cavity verifies the eligibility of the room-temperature operation paving the way for a possible demonstration of on-chip laser that could take part in the fully integrated infrared systems for a variety of applications including biological and chemical sensing, as well as security such as alarm systems and free-space optical communications.