bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Scoping Review of Artificial Intelligence Applications in Clinical Trial Risk Assessment
Authors: Teodoro Douglas , Naderi Nona , Yazdani Anthony , Zhang Boya , Bornet Alban
Published: January 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied to clinical trial risk assessment, aiming to improve safety and efficiency. This scoping review analyzes 142 studies published between 2013 and 2024, focusing on safety (n=55), efficacy (n=46), and operational (n=45) risk prediction. AI techniques, including traditional machine learning, deep learning (e.g., graph neural networks, transformers), and causal machine learning, are used for tasks like adverse drug event prediction, treatment effect estimation, and phase transition prediction. These methods utilize diverse data sources, from molecular structures and clinical trial protocols to patient data and scientific publications. Recently, large language models (LLMs) have seen a surge in applications, representing over 20% of studies in 2023. While some models achieve high performance (AUROC up to 96%), challenges remain, including selection bias, limited prospective studies, and data quality issues. Despite these limitations, AI-based risk assessment holds substantial promise for transforming clinical trials, particularly through improved risk-based monitoring frameworks.
Optimizing stress in breaking bad news: a randomized controlled trial on the psychophysiological effects of stress arousal reappraisal and worked-example interventions among medical students
Authors: Bosshard Michel , Guttormsen Sissel , Nater Urs Markus , Schmitz Felix , Gomez Patrick , Berendonk Christoph
Published: January 2025

Breaking bad news (BBN) is among the most distressing communication tasks in the medical field, wherein physicians disclose serious diagnoses to their patients. Under stress, physicians may resort to maladaptive communication behaviors, potentially affecting patient’s health in the long-term. Therefore, it is essential to support medical professionals in effectively managing their stress responses early in their careers. Using the biopsychosocial model of challenge and threat as theoretical framework, we employed a 2 x 2 study design to examine the effects of stress arousal reappraisal (SAR; i.e., reinterpretation of bodily changes as functional coping resources) and worked example (WE; i.e., step-by-step demonstration of how to BBN) interventions on demand and resource appraisals and cardiovascular responses of 229 medical students engaged in simulated BBN encounters. Participants who prepared with WE reported more coping resources relative to demands after the BBN encounter than participants not preparing with WE. Participants receiving SAR instructions exhibited improved cardiovascular responses during the BBN task, indicated by increased cardiac output and decreased total peripheral resistance, than participants not receiving SAR instructions. These findings align with the notion that both interventions facilitate a shift from a threat to a challenge state, supporting their potential for integration into BBN training.
Evaluation of Physico-chemical parameters of selected Clotrimazole pessaries from pharmaceutical importers and Accredited Drug Dispensing Outlets in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Brashi Benedict , Mlugu Eulambius M. , Kaale Eliangiringa A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Quality assured medicines make an important contribution to a global reduction in morbidity and mortality. Tanzania depends on approximately 70% of imported medicines, some are manufactured in countries with different climatic zones for stabilities. The prevalence of vaginal candidiasis amongst women seeking primary health care for genital infections in Dar es Salaam is 45%. Clotrimazole pessaries is the first-line drug for the treatment vaginal candidiasis (VC). However, their reports show the existence of poor quality clotrimazole in the market as well as microbial resistance.

Study objectives

This study aimed to assess the quality of clotrimazole pessaries among pharmaceutical importers and Accredited Drug Dispensing Outlets (ADDOs) outlets in Dar es Salaam.

Methods

The experimental study laboratory-based was conducted between October 2021 to July 2022. A total of 72 samples, 5 from pharmaceutical importers and 67 from ADDO outlets, were collected by mystery clients through the convenient method. Assay for the content of active ingredients and disintegration time were performed as described in the British Pharmacopoeia (BP).

Results

All samples passed the physical inspection and disintegration test. Among the collected samples, two of 72(2.78%) failed the assay test. The assay for an active pharmaceutical ingredient for samples from importers was significantly greater than that from ADDO outlets.

Conclusion

Storage conditions may affect the drug content of clotrimazole pessaries. A few samples from ADDO without fan failed to meet the assay test as per British Pharmacopeia specification.

Recommendations

The Pharmacy Regulation 2019, for Accredited Drugs, Dispensing Outlets, Standards, and Ethics for Dispensation of Medicines to be revitalized to include a specification on ADDO outlets regarding the storage conditions to align with the pharmaceutical manufacturer’s recommendations. Also, regulatory inspections should be emphasized by the Regulatory Authority including Pharmacy Council and TMDA so as ensure the registered pharmaceutical outlets continue complying with standards required like the presence of air conditions so that the medicines continue to be of desired quality throughout their shelf life.
Isolation and characterization of synaptic structures from human neural organoids
Authors: Øhlenschlæger Marie S. , Criscuolo Lucrezia , Jensen Pia , Sánchez Daniel J. Lloyd-Davies , Sutcliffe Magdalena , Bhosale Santosh , Bogetofte Helle , Tahir Muhammad , Jakobsen Lene A. , Pihl Maria , Brewer Jonathan , Schwämmle Veit , Poulsen Frantz R. , Freude Kristine , Lancaster Madeline A. , Robinson Phillip J. , Larsen Martin R.
Published: January 2025

Synapses are essential for neuronal function and are central to numerous neurological disorders including developmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Synapses structurally constitute a very small proportion of a neuron, and their protein content is difficult to study using whole tissue preparations. Especially studying synapses on the functional level is challenging. To overcome this limitation, synapses can be captured as synaptosomes generated through enrichment of isolated nerve terminals. Such synaptosomes have a re-sealed plasma membrane and can regenerate their membrane potential and perform physiological function, for example neurotransmitter release.

Synaptosomes are traditionally enriched from rodent or postmortem human brain tissue, but rodent models lack human-specific synaptic features, and the functionality of synaptosomes from postmortem tissues is limited by the postmortem interval and often only show disease endpoints. Furthermore, due to ethical issues and availability, only a few studies have been conducted on human samples. However, neural organoids (NOs) have emerged as a possible new source for isolation of intact and live human nerve terminals to study human-specific aspects of synaptic transmission. Further, the enrichment of synaptosomes is usually performed using density gradient centrifugation, which requires a lot of starting material. In the present study we developed a method for the enrichment of synaptic structures from human NOs applying a differential centrifugation protocol. We then used mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics to document the enrichment of synapse and growth cone specific proteins, and quantitative phosphoproteomics upon KCl stimulation to demonstrate viability and physiological function of the derived synaptic structures.
Mapping brain function underlying naturalistic motor observation and imitation using high-density diffuse optical tomography
Authors: Yang Dalin , George Tessa G. , Sobolewski Chloe M. , McMorrow Sophia R. , Pacheco Carolina , King Kelsey T. , Rochowiak Rebecca , Daniels-Day Evan , Park Sungmin , Speh Emma , Lidstone Daniel , Santra Romila , Crocetti Deana , Nebel Mary Beth , Tuncgenc Bahar , Vidal Rene , Marrus Natasha M. , Mostofsky Stewart H. , Eggebrecht Adam T.
Published: January 2025

Background

While autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is defined by deficits in social communication with restricted interests and repetitive behaviors, autistic individuals often show early impairments in motor imitation that persist through childhood and into adulthood. High-density diffuse optical tomography (HD-DOT) overcomes logistical challenges of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to provide an open scanning environment conducive to neuroimaging during naturalistic motor imitation. Additionally, the mirror neuron system (MNS) is crucial for understanding and imitating actions, and its dysfunction is hypothesized to underlie key ASD features.

Objective

We aim to investigate brain function underlying motor observation and motor imitation in adult autistic and non-autistic individuals (NAI). We hypothesize that HD-DOT will reveal greater MNS activity during motor imitation than motor observation, and that MNS activity will exhibit a negative correlation with autistic traits.

Methods

We imaged brain function using HD-DOT in N=100 participants as they passively observed videos of an actor completing sequences of meaningless arm movements. Additionally, while being simultaneously recorded with both HD-DOT and Kinect 3D cameras for computer-vision-based assessment of motor imitation (CAMI), participants imitated different videos of an actor completing similar arm movements. Responses to the tasks were estimated using general linear models, and multiple regression was used to investigate brain-behavior associations with autistic traits, using the Social Responsiveness Scale, and imitation fidelity as measured with CAMI.

Results

Both motor observation and imitation tasks elicited significant activations in visual, temporal, and MNS areas, with imitation showing stronger activation in motor regions. Notably, MNS regions exhibited greater activation during observation than imitation. Additionally, activity during observation in the right parietal lobe correlated with autistic traits assessed with the SRS.

Conclusions

Our findings provide robust evidence of shared and task-specific neural mechanisms underlying motor observation and imitation, emphasizing the differential engagement of MNS regions during motor observation and imitation.
Characterizing venom resistance inMonodelphis domesticayields new insights into mammalian blood physiology
Authors: Holding Matthew , Disharoon Dante , Haynes Laura , Paruchuri Bipin Chakravarthy , Pontius M. Hao Hao , Golden Krista , Shavit Jordan A. , Desch Karl , Ginsburg David , Sen Gupta Anirban , Cruz Yolanda , Drabeck Danielle H.
Published: January 2025

Interactions between predators and prey are often characterized by strong selection that shapes extreme physiological adaptations for survival in hostile environments. Venom resistance in large-bodied South American opossums (Clade Didelphini) provides a striking example as they are well known to prey upon snakes and have strong resistance to extremely toxic snake venom. While resistance is well known in this group of large-bodied opossums, relatively little is known about the venom resistance of the remaining diverse and speciose members of Didelphidae (small-bodied opossums) that inhabit the same regions in South America and encounter the same venomous snakes. Here, we investigate the venom resistance ofMonodelphis domesticathrough multi-level physiological assays, examining responses to both purified venom components and whole venom from sympatric and allopatric vipers. Our results reveal thatM. domesticaexhibits significant resistance to venom-induced blood coagulation, retains normal platelet function in the presence of venoms that are known to disrupt platelet function, and has enhanced inhibition of snake venom metalloproteinases. Unexpectedly, we find a previously unknown modification of opossum blood physiology, namely, that opossum von Willebrand Factor (VWF) requires increased shear force to elongate, which may contribute to the venom resistance phenotype and has relevance to human coagulopathic disease. Together these data expand the known extent of venom resistance beyond the large-bodied clade, suggesting it is a widespread adaptive trait in South American marsupials. This work provides new insights into venom-mammal coevolution by expanding our understanding of the physiological adaptations underlying venom resistance including how they can inspire biomedical solutions to coagulation disorders.
Larvicidal activity ofTrichoderma atroviride(Hypocreales: Hypocreaceae) againstAedes albopictus(Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Hayes David T. , Tawidian Patil , Schubert Ethan , Kang Qing , Sumpter Amare J. , Michel Kristin
Published: January 2025

Larviciding is an important part of effective integrated mosquito management. However, growing resistance to chemical and bacterial-based insecticides requires biocontrol agents with novel modes of action. Entomopathogenic fungi are good candidates for larval control due to their capability to infect mosquito larvae and their production of larvicidal compounds. In this study, we isolated a strain ofTrichoderma atroviridefromAedes albopictuslarvae collected in Manhattan, KS, USA. We used a laboratory-based microcosm assay to expose L3Ae. albopictuslarvae toT. atrovirideconidia and culture supernatant treatments. Larvae were monitored daily for survival and development to pupae and adults. In addition, adult survival was monitored for ten-days post pupation, and wing lengths were measured to assess mosquito size. Our results revealed thatT. atrovirideculture supernatant was a potent larvicide towardsAe. albopictus. However, conidia by themselves were not larvicidal, indicating the major mode of killing was through toxicity exerted by the culture supernatant. We further showed that larval exposure toT. atroviridesupernatant delayed larval development to pupae. Sex-specific adult survival was not affected by larval exposure toT. atroviride. However, wing length of male and female mosquitoes were reduced, indicating a reduction in adult mosquito body size as compared to the control. Taken together, this study identifies the culture supernatant from a novel strain ofT. atrovirideas a potent larvicide ofAe. albopictus, potentially expanding our toolbox for biological control of mosquitoes.
Cannabinoid Modulation of Central Amygdala Population Dynamics During Threat Investigation
Authors: Yasmin Farhana , Naskar Saptarnab , Rosas-Vidal Luis E. , Patel Sachin
Published: January 2025

Cannabinoids modulate innate avoidance, threat-reactivity, and stress adaptations via modulation amygdala-associated circuits; however, the mechanisms by which cannabinoids modulate amygdala representation of threat-related behavior are not known. We show that cannabinoid administration increases the activity of central amygdala (CeA) somatostatin neurons (SOM) and alters basal network dynamics in a manner supporting generation of antagonistic sub-ensembles within the SOM population. Moreover, diverging neuronal population trajectory dynamics and enhanced antagonistic sub-ensemble representation of threat-related behaviors, and enhanced threat-related location representation, were also observed. Lastly, cannabinoid administration increased the proportion of SOM neurons exhibiting multidimensional representation of threat-related behaviors and behavior-location conjunction. While cannabinoid receptor activation ex vivo suppressed excitatory inputs to SOM neurons, our data suggest preferential suppression of local GABA release subserves cannabinoid activation of CeA SOM neurons. These data provide insight into how cannabinoid-mediated presynaptic suppression transforms postsynaptic population dynamics and reveal cellular mechanisms by which cannabinoids could affect threat-reactivity.
ca-circSCN8A promotes PASMCs ferroptosis via LLPS initiated R-Loop
Authors: Li Mengnan , Hao Yingying , Song Xinyue , Liu Huiyu , Zhang Chi , Zhang Jiaqi , Sun Hanliang , Zheng Xiaodong , Zhang Lixin , Yu Hang , Ma Cui , Zhao Xijuan , Zhu Daling
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Ferroptosis has been implicated in pulmonary hypertension. Chromatin-associated RNAs are linked to ferroptosis. However, their role in pulmonary vascular ferroptosis in PH is unexplored.

METHODS

Bioinformatics, Sanger sequencing, RNase R and others were employed to identify differentially higher expression of ca-circSCN8A. Functional gain and loss assays were employed to unveil the role of ca-circSCN8A in hypoxia-induced redox-dependent ferroptosis in HPASMCs and PH mice model. Interaction between ca-circSCN8A and FUS was detected via RNA immunoprecipitation and pull-down assays. FRAP, CHIRP-qPCR, MDA, GSH and GSSG were conducted to explore the potential molecular mechanism.

RESULTS

ca-circSCN8A was firstly identified and confirmed to be upregulated in PH. Upregulation of ca-circSCN8A can promote hypoxia induced ferroptosis in HPASMCs. Under hypoxic conditions, ca-circSCN8A promoted the lactylation of FUS by recruiting EP300, leading to formation of LLPS of ca-circSCN8A/FUS/EP300. LLPS maintained the stability of the R-Loop formed by ca-circSCN8A and ferroptosis related-gene SLC7A11 promoter that inhibit the transcription of the SLC7A11 gene, further result in the disruption of the redox balance and causes ferroptosis in HPASMCs.

CONCLUSIONS

ca-circSCN8A recruits EP300 to promote the lactylation of FUS, thereby promoting LLPS formation of ca-circSCN8A/EP300/FUS. Further, the LLPS motivates ca-circSCN8A to form R-loop with its non-host SLC7A11 and participating in the regulation of hypoxic induced HPASMCs redox-dependent ferroptosis. This is the first confirmation that circRNAs forming R-loops with non-host genes regulated by LLPS. Our findings indicated that ca-circSCN8A plays an important role in ferroptosis of hypoxic induced HPASMCs and may be a potential target for the treatment of PH.
Generation of aNr2f2-driveninducible Cre mouse to target interstitial cells in the reproductive system
Authors: Brown Paula R. , Estermann Martin A. , Gruzdev Artiom , Scott Gregory J. , Hagler Thomas B. , Ray Manas K. , Yao Humphrey Hung-Chang
Published: January 2025

The orphan nuclear receptorNr2f2, also known as COUP-TFII, play important roles in development and function of multiple organs, including the reproductive system. NR2F2 is expressed in the interstitial cells of both embryonic and adult testes, ovaries, and reproductive tracts. Taking advantage of such unique expression pattern, we have developed a tamoxifen inducible Cre model,Nr2f2-iCreERT2, which specifically and efficiently targets interstitial cells in both male and female reproductive organs across embryonic and adult stages. This model offers a powerful tool for gene knockout studies specifically in the interstitial compartment, without affecting the supporting or germ cells. Additionally, it enables interstitial cell lineage tracing, facilitating the assessment of the interstitial’s contribution to non-interstitial cell types during development and differentiation.
Dynamical Theory of Angle-Resolved Electron Energy Loss and Gain Spectroscopies of Phonons and Magnons in Transmission Electron Microscopy Including Multiple Scattering Effects
Authors: Castellanos-Reyes José Ángel , Zeiger Paul M. , Rusz Ján
Published: January 2025

We present a method for computing angle-resolved electron energy loss and gain spectroscopies for phonon and magnon excitations in transmission electron microscopy. Fractional scattering intensities are derived from the temperature-dependent time autocorrelation of the auxiliary electron beam wave function. This method captures both single and multiple scattering processes, as well as dynamical diffraction effects, while remaining computationally efficient and easy to parallelize.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Tailoring the digital pitch: gender-specific strategies for maximizing social media ad impact on purchase intention
Authors: Wei Lee Heng , Kian Lam Tan , Mey Lau Pei
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores the influence of gender-specific reactions to social media advertisements on purchase intentions, addressing a gap in existing research. It examines how these reactions affect the perceived value of ads and, consequently, the intention to purchase, with a particular focus on gender as a moderating factor. The primary aim is to analyse how gender moderates the relationship between consumers’ perceptions of the value of social media ads and their subsequent purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A non-probability convenience sampling method was employed to collect data from 423 social media users in Malaysia at shopping malls. Respondents interacted with advertisements on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok and completed a survey. Descriptive analysis was performed using SPSS 25. The study utilized structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the structural and measurement models. Multigroup analysis (MGA) was conducted using SMART-PLS 4.0.9.6 to assess moderation effects based on gender differences.

Findings

The findings reveal that advertisements emphasizing entertainment significantly influence female purchase intentions, whereas ads highlighting product or service values resonate more with males, challenging common stereotypes. Informative and creative ads show universal appeal across genders, underscoring the importance of diverse ad elements in shaping consumer behaviour.

Originality/value

This study advances the advertising value model by specifically identifying gender-based differences in how entertainment and perceived value in social media ads influence purchase intention. It uniquely reveals that females are more responsive to entertainment-focused and value-conscious ads. These findings provide targeted strategies for advertisers to design gender-sensitive campaigns, enhancing the model’s relevance in contemporary digital advertising contexts.
Impact media portrays on police legitimacy in times of emergencies: a global perspective
Authors: Asad Muhammad Mujtaba , Zia Sumaira
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The swift development of digital platforms and the intricate nature of socialization processes have greatly impacted how young people perceive the legitimacy of the police. This study investigates the influence of different media platforms and methods of socialization in emergencies on the attitudes and beliefs about law enforcement among young individuals. The aim of this review paper is to consolidate existing literature on the influence of various forms of media and social contacts shaping youth attitudes towards the legitimacy of the police, within distinct social and cultural contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature was reviewed narratively, with a focus on major digital bibliographic databases for the purpose of selecting studies. This approach facilitated the examination of overarching concepts across several fields of study in order to develop a thorough comprehension of how media and socialization in emergencies influence young people’s perceptions of the legitimacy of the police. Three major themes were discovered, encompassing the connection of three different theories with the youth perceptions of police legitimacy, impacts from different media sources like news, entertainment and social media and the influence of important socialization agents like family, peers and community.

Findings

The review confirms that the media, regardless of whether it presents good or bad images, has a major impact on the views of youngsters towards the police. It influences their opinions of how trustworthy and legitimate the police are. Modeling and reinforcement, which are key components of social learning, play a crucial role in influencing the impact of media on young people. Community and family connections have significant influence, either strengthening or lessening the effects of media depictions. Although media has the ability to promote understanding and regard for law enforcement, it was also observed that there are challenges associated with the reinforcement of preconceptions and biases.

Practical implications

This research offers fundamental ideas for creating educational and community initiatives that improve positive media depictions of law enforcement and bolster community–police interactions. Additionally, it provides a framework for future studies on media approaches that could facilitate the development of a well-rounded understanding of the legitimacy of law enforcement among young people.

Originality/value

This literature review combines social learning and cognitive theories with empirical research on media to examine the complex and varied effects of media and socialization on how young people perceive the legitimacy of the police. It emphasizes the necessity for a sophisticated comprehension of these connections within the framework of current social dynamics and advancements in technology.
Unveiling user intentions: an integrated analysis of hedonic motivation and service quality in e-grocery technology acceptance
Authors: Pagnanelli Maria Anna , Colamatteo Annarita , Cassia Fabio , Sansone Marcello
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to extend the Technology Acceptance Model 2 (TAM2) by incorporating hedonic motivation and service quality and exploring their collective impact on users’ continuance intention in the context of e-grocery. The purpose is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing e-grocery technology acceptance.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical analysis follows a cross-sectional design, using data collected in Italy from January to March 2023. The survey, utilizing the convenience sampling method, focuses on users who have made online grocery purchases in the previous six months. Data analysis employs partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), which enables causal-predictive model assessment.

Findings

The research reveals significant relationships among hedonic motivation, service quality, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness and continuance intention. Hedonic motivation positively impacts perceived usefulness but not perceived ease of use. Service quality significantly influences both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. Additionally, perceived ease of use positively influences perceived usefulness and continuance intention, while perceived usefulness significantly impacts continuance intention.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional design could limit the study’s ability to capture the evolution of users’ continuance intention over time. Cultural influences on users’ perceptions could be explored further to develop context-specific strategies.

Practical implications

The findings emphasize the importance of hedonic motivation, service quality, ease of use and perceived usefulness in shaping users’ intentions to continue using online grocery services. Practitioners are encouraged to focus on enhancing hedonic elements for increased user loyalty and invest in service quality, particularly in customer care and checkout processes, to improve user perception and ease of use.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by integrating hedonic motivation and service quality into TAM2, offering a novel perspective on their combined impact on technology acceptance. The inclusion of these factors enhances the model’s applicability in understanding user behaviour in the adoption of technology, specifically in the e-grocery sector.
Adoption of ISSB standards in emerging markets – insights from Moroccan companies’ organizational readiness
Authors: Benhayoun Issam , El Amrani Mehdi , Barhdadi Aya , Azzaoui Walid
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the organizational factors determining Moroccan companies’ readiness to adopt the newly introduced International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) standards (International Financial Reporting Standards S1 and S2), focusing on absorptive capacity, organizational structure and size and culture and finally kakistocracy.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a quantitative approach to analyze the impact of specific organizational factors on the readiness to adopt ISSB standards by Moroccan companies. A partial least squares structural equation modeling based on a sample size of 150 Moroccan accounting professional was performed to assess the factors affecting readiness.

Findings

The results of the study highlight that absorptive capacity is the most significant predictor of readiness for ISSB standards adoption, with a strong positive effect and high statistical significance. Organizational structure, size and culture also positively influence readiness, though to a lesser extent. Kakistocracy has a minimal impact, suggesting its influence is limited in this context. Overall, the findings emphasize the critical role of organizational learning and structure in driving readiness, while governance issues appear to play a marginal role.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s limitations include the potential interaction with unmeasured variables and the reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce biases. Future research should explore additional variables and incorporate qualitative methods for deeper insights.

Practical implications

Policymakers should prioritize enhancing firms’ absorptive capacities through organizational improvements and targeted support while recognizing governance reforms as a secondary priority. Efforts should address barriers to ISSB adoption, such as resource limitations, regulatory alignment and stakeholder engagement, to facilitate effective integration of sustainability standards in emerging economies.

Originality/value

This research enriches academic discourse by providing insights into how emerging markets adapt to global sustainability frameworks. It serves as a benchmark for similar economies, guiding policymakers and corporate leaders on best practices and promoting transparency and trust among stakeholders.
Imagination workshops as a creative method for exploring the sociomaterial dimensions of privacy
Authors: Horppu Johanna
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce imagination workshops as a creative method for studying privacy from a sociomaterial perspective. The workshops incorporate a creative element – the imagination game – into a traditional focus group setting. The imagination game is a role-playing card game that involves participants imagining scenarios set in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The imagination workshop method is illustrated through an empirical study exploring imaginaries of the future smart home. The study encompasses five workshops with a total of 46 participants.

Findings

The findings from the empirical application of the method highlight its strengths in uncovering thoughts and feelings related to human–data relations that might be difficult to attain through more conventional methods, such as affective responses to privacy dilemmas. By combining imagination and collaborative activity, less taken-for-granted ideas can be tapped into.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to consumer research by introducing a novel qualitative method for studying privacy. By drawing from a new materialism perspective, the imagination workshops bring to light the sociomaterial dimensions of privacy that extend beyond mere cognitive decision-making processes. In this way, the method can be applied to reveal the dynamic and visceral nature of the construct. In addition to privacy research, the method provides ample opportunities for application in diverse contexts interested in technological futures.
Optimizing and predicting tenacity of multicomponent hybrid high-performance yarn using Box-Behnken design
Authors: Islam Md Azharul , Rathour Rochak , Kumar Bipin , Das Apurba , Kumar Nandan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This work focuses on optimizing and predicting the tenacity of twin-sheath single-core hybrid yarn. This study aims to predict and maximize yarn performance by investigating key factors influencing yarn tenacity.

Design/methodology/approach

Three critical parameters − ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (HPPE) denier, stainless steel micron size and twist per meter − were considered for making multicomponent yarn and optimized using the Box-Behnken design (BBD), a response surface methodology variant. The hybrid yarn studied consists of a stainless-steel core, a polyester inner layer and an HPPE outer layer with opposite twists. The ASTM D2256 method was applied on Instron 3365 machine to measure yarn tenacity.

Findings

The optimized yarn setup involved 200 twists per meter, 400 Den HPPE and 45-micron stainless steel, resulting in a 127.5 cN/Tex tenacity. The quadratic model best fits the data, with R² values close to 1.00 (R² = 0.9935, adjusted R² = 0.9817, projected R² = 0.8956), a lower PRESS value of 445, a higher adequacy precision of 19.6816 and a higher TPC percentage of 35.23%. The analysis of variance results confirmed the model significance (F-value = 84.75, P-value < 0.0001), and the average relative error was found to be 3.43%, indicating predictive accuracy.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the BBD in optimizing hybrid yarn tenacity, providing valuable insights in terms of core yarn and outer sheath yarn linear density with twist per meter. The work presents a novel approach to hybrid yarn optimization and prediction, expanding the potential for further research and development in textile engineering.
Dude sponsored: how executive function and disclosures moderate the persuasive effects of sponsored online videos on young adults
Authors: Lapierre Matthew A. , van Reijmersdal Eva A. , Boerman Sophie C.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine how individual differences and contextual factors affect audience responses to sponsored video content. Specifically, this study tests whether executive function (EF, both hot and cool) skills in young adults influence persuasion knowledge and advertising responses. The study further tests the moderating role of disclosure presence and country of participants (US vs The Netherlands).

Design/methodology/approach

An online experiment (N = 368) with a 2 (disclosure: present versus absent) × 2 (country: US versus The Netherlands) between subjects design featuring young adults (M age = 21.06; SDage = 3.06) is conducted.

Findings

Participants with more advanced cool EF showed a better understanding of the persuasive intent of the video, and hot EF was associated with higher brand recall. In addition, disclosures only enhance the understanding of persuasive intent of the video for people with less advanced levels of hot EF. Lastly, Dutch participants were more responsive toward the disclosure.

Originality/value

This study provides key insights regarding how young adults process sponsored content and the role that cognition plays in shaping responses.
Advances in understanding dietary fiber: Classification, structural characterization, modification, and gut microbiome interactions
Authors: Feng Yiming , Jin Qing , Liu Xuanbo , Lin Tiantian , Johnson Andrea , Huang Haibo
Published: January 2025

Gut microbiota and their metabolites profoundly impact host physiology. Targeted modulation of gut microbiota has been a long‐term interest in the scientific community. Numerous studies have investigated the feasibility of utilizing dietary fibers (DFs) to modulate gut microbiota and promote the production of health‐beneficial bacterial metabolites. However, the complexity of fiber structures, microbiota composition, and their dynamic interactions have hindered the precise prediction of the impact of DF on the gut microbiome. We address this issue with a new perspective, focusing on the inherent chemical and structural complexity of DFs and their interaction with gut microbiota. The chemical and structural complexity of fibers was thoroughly elaborated, encompassing the fibers’ molecular composition, polymorphism, mesoscopic structures, porosity, and particle size. Advanced characterization techniques to investigate fiber structural properties were discussed. Additionally, we examined the interactions between DFs and gut microbiota. Finally, we summarized processing techniques to modify fiber structures for improving the fermentability of DF by gut microbiota. The structure of fibers, such as their crystallinity, porosity, degree of branching, and pore wettability, significantly impacts their interactions with gut microbiota. These structural differences also substantially affect fiber's fermentability and capability to modulate the composition of gut microbiota. Conventional approaches are not capable of investigating complex fiber properties and their influences on the gut microbiome; therefore, it is of the essence to involve advanced material characterization techniques and artificial intelligence to unveil more comprehensive information on this topic.
miR‐224‐5p Suppresses Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer via IL6ST‐Mediated Regulation of the JAK2/STAT3 Pathway
Authors: Tian Jiao , He Yiming , Zhang Zihui , Zhu Yuxin , Ren Haixia , Zhang Liang , Li Lei , Li Wei , Zhang Weidong , Xiao Ting , Zhou Honggang , Li Xiaoping
Published: January 2025

Background

Our study aimed to explore the specific functions and potential mechanisms of miR‐224‐5p in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

We first analyzed the expression of miR‐224‐5p in NSCLC patients and cell lines through the GEO database and qRT‐PCR analysis. Then, we used MTT assays, wound healing assays, Transwell assays, and western blotting to evaluate the effects of miR‐224‐5p on NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, we used a xenograft tumor model to evaluate the effect of miR‐224‐5p on NSCLC tumor growth. Potential binding targets of miR‐224‐5p were further identified through the target prediction databases, and the relationships between miR‐224‐5p, its targets, and downstream signaling pathways were further verified using luciferase reporter gene assays and western blotting.

Results

The GEO database and qRT‐PCR analysis indicated that miR‐224‐5p was significantly downregulated in NSCLC patients and cell lines. Functional assays indicated that inhibiting miR‐224‐5p could enhance the proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of NSCLC cells, as well as accelerate tumor growth. In contrast, overexpression of miR‐224‐5p inhibited these processes. We identified IL6ST (interleukin 6 signal transducer) as a binding target of miR‐224‐5p. We observed that miR‐224‐5p could bind to and inhibit IL6ST expression and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, and the inhibition of NSCLC tumor growth and JAK2/STAT3 pathway by miR‐224‐5p could be reversed by IL6ST overexpression.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that miR‐224‐5p inhibited NSCLC by targeting IL6ST, thereby downregulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Impact of EML4‐ALK Variants and TP53 Status on the Efficacy of ALK Inhibitors in Patients With Non‐small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zou Zihua , Wu Lige , Hao Xuezhi , Li Yan , Liang Li , Gu Yangchun , Ying Jianming , Li Junling , Xing Puyuan
Published: January 2025

Background

The clinical implications of different EML4‐ALK fusion variants remain poorly elucidated in the era of second‐generation ALK inhibitors.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study, wherein patients diagnosed with locally advanced or metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer harboring EML4‐ALK fusion were stratified into two cohorts based on their first‐line treatment: Cohort 1 received alectinib, while Cohort 2 received crizotinib. Statistical analysis was employed to investigate the impact of different EML4‐ALK variants and TP53 status on the efficacy of first‐line ALK‐TKIs.

Results

Finally, 49 patients were enrolled in cohort 1 and 53 patients in cohort 2. In cohort 1, patients with long EML4‐ALK fusion variants exhibited prolonged PFS (NR vs. 34.0 m, p = 0.004, HR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.12–0.74) and an elevated 5‐year OS rate (93.3% vs. 68.4%, p = 0.020, HR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.02–0.62) compared to those with short variants. The median PFS was not reached in TP53‐wt group and 47.0 m in TP53‐mut group (p = 0.087, HR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.17–1.17). The TP53‐wt group exhibited a superior 5‐year OS rate (100% vs. 77.8%, p = 0.030) compared to TP53‐mut group. In cohort 2, the median PFS was 14.0 m in long variant group and 12.9 m in short variant group (p = 0.094, HR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.37–1.13); the median OS was not reached in long variant group and 69.2 m in short variant group (p = 0.254, HR:0.62, 95% CI: 0.27–1.42). However, the efficacy of first‐line crizotinib did not appear to be influenced by the TP53 status.

Conclusions

EML4‐ALK short variants and TP53 mutations are both adverse factors for first‐line alectinib efficacy, but they have little effect on first‐line crizotinib.
The reciprocal within‐person relationship between job insecurity and life satisfaction: Testing loss and gain spirals with two large‐scale longitudinal studies
Authors: Jiang Lixin , Xu Xiaohong , Zubielevitch Elena , Sibley Chris G.
Published: January 2025

Deriving from the loss and gain spirals of conservation of resources (COR) theory, this research attempts to understand the within‐person, reciprocal relationship between job insecurity and life satisfaction. Using three independent samples from seven‐wave, five‐wave, and 21‐wave annually collected data from New Zealand and Australia, and random intercept cross‐lagged panel models, we find that (1) job insecurity has a negative concurrent relationship with life satisfaction at the between‐person level; (2) job insecurity at an earlier time point has a negative relationship with life satisfaction and a positive relationship with job insecurity at a later time point, indicating that individuals facing an initial threat of resource losses are more prone to further resource depletion, supporting “loss spirals” in COR theory; and (3) life satisfaction at an earlier time point has a positive relationship with life satisfaction at a later time point, supporting “gain spiral” in COR theory. However, life satisfaction is not longitudinally related to job insecurity at a later time point, failing to support the reverse causality. By rigorously investigating the reciprocal within‐person relationship between job insecurity and life satisfaction with two large‐scale panel data sets, these findings strongly support the loss and gain spirals from COR theory.
Gossypin Ameliorates Collagen‐Induced Arthritic Rats by Inhibiting Angiogenesis, Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: He Caiyou , Kumar Ankit
Published: January 2025

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long‐term inflammatory autoimmune disease that damages cartilage and synovial membranes while also affecting bones and joints. The aim of the current study was to investigate the antiarthritic effect of gossypin against collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) in rats.

Methods

Intraperitoneal administration of Type II collagen (2 mg/mL) was used to induce arthritis in the rats, followed by oral administration of gossypin (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg) for 28 days. Various parameters were assessed, including body weight, paw swelling, arthritis score, organ weights, RF, haematological parameters, inflammatory markers, MMP levels, antioxidants, cytokines and nonhepatic and hepatic liver parameters. Additionally, the expression of various mRNAs was analysed.

Results

Gossypin significantly (p < 0.001) altered the body weight, paw swelling, arthritis score and organ weights along with RF level. Gossypin treatment significantly (p < 0.001) altered the level of antioxidant and hepatic parameters; inflammatory cytokines; and inflammatory parameters such as PGE2, COX‐2, NF‐κB and VEGF, respectively. Gossypin also enhanced the level of HO‐1 and Nrf2 and suppressed the level of MMP parameters such as MMP‐2, MMP‐3 and MMP‐9. Gossypin also modified the mRNA expression of MMP‐3, MMP‐9, TRAP, RANK, Ctsk and RANKL, respectively.

Conclusion

Gossypin demonstrated antiarthritic effects against CIA in rats.
Effects of the sequential use of L1 and bilingual subtitles on incidental English vocabulary learning: A cognitive load perspective
Authors: Yuan Xin , Tang Xuan
Published: January 2025

Aim

From the perspective of cognitive load theory, the present study examined the relative effectiveness of the sequential use of L1 and bilingual subtitles on incidental English vocabulary learning.

Methods

A total of 162 upper‐intermediate Chinese learners of English as a foreign language watched an English clip in one of 4 subtitling conditions: L1‐bilingual, bilingual‐bilingual, L2‐L2, and no subtitles.

Results

Results suggested a statistically significant advantage for the L1‐bilingual condition over other conditions for word form and meaning recall. The sequential use of L1 and bilingual subtitles also elicited the lowest cognitive load. This study suggests that the viewing sequence that starts with L1 subtitles might increase the efficiency of viewing‐based incidental vocabulary learning and have the potential to reduce cognitive load.
Sand Play and 0‐ to 8‐Year‐Old Children's Physical, Cognitive and Socioemotional Outcomes: A Mixed‐Methods Systematic Review
Authors: Iivonen Susanna , Kettukangas Titta , Soini Anne , Viholainen Helena
Published: January 2025

Background

Sand play (SP) is a global phenomenon that may be linked to children's health outcomes, but limited evidence exists. The purpose was to synthesize evidence on the association between SP and 0‐ to 8‐year‐old children's physical, cognitive and socioemotional outcomes.

Methods

CINAHL, Academic Search Premier, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus with Full Text, ERIC, Medline, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched. Studies were eligible if 0‐ to 8‐year‐old children's outcomes were reported while attending SP. Synthesis was performed using effect direction (quantitative), thematic (qualitative), narrative and results‐based convergent synthesis incorporating the risk of bias and confidence in the evidence assessments. Studies were grouped by SP exposure context as education, leisure and rehabilitation.

Results

The effect direction (Nstudies = 17; Nchildren = 677), thematic (Nstudies = 8; Nchildren = 131) and narrative (Nstudies = 8; Nchildren = 11 784) syntheses included 28 studies published in 1993–2023 (Ntotal = 12 646; Mchildage = 3–6 years; Mgirls 41%; Methnicity Asian 3%, African American/Black/Hispanic 8%, European American/White/Non‐Hispanic 56%, Multi‐ethnic 36%). Based on very low to moderate confidence in the evidence, findings indicated inconsistent associations between educational, rehabilitational and leisure SP and children's physical, cognitive and socioemotional outcomes. There was inconsistent evidence on the occurrence of SP by children's gender and age.

Conclusion

SP may enhance some childhood outcomes. However, high‐quality controlled designs describing the exposure to SP are needed to inform the effectiveness of SP on children's health and development.