bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the effectiveness of sparse regularization for structural damage diagnosis using dynamic strain measurements
Authors: Ren Peng , Yang Chunfeng , Yuan Baojun
Published: January 2024

Strain measurement is considered inherently suitable for structural health monitoring due to the ease of extracting damage-sensitive features. However, the need for pre- and post-damage feature extraction, especially in the absence of baseline data for aging infrastructures in service, has engendered skepticism concerning the practical efficacy of strain-based damage diagnosis. To address this, this study incorporates limited prior information on structures and sparse regularization to ascertain the locations and severities of structural damages based on dynamic strain response data. A model-assisted approach is presented, including the typical three-step process of damage feature extraction, finite element modeling, and analytical sensitivity-based model updating. In particular, sparse regularization technique aids in robustly identifying structural damage by tackling the hindrance encountered during model updating, involving ill-posedness and the impact of measurement and modeling uncertainties. The approach’s effectiveness is substantiated through a numerical investigation of a Bailey truss bridge model exposed to operating loads and an experiment with a steel beam equipped with an array of fiber Bragg grating sensors. The results demonstrate that using the proposed damage diagnosis approach enables accurately locating and quantifying element-level damages, even when significant modeling errors or a lack of baseline features exist.
Spatial and temporal distribution of bioaerosols produced by patients with different postures in a negative pressure isolation ward under different ventilation modes
Authors: Li Zongkun , Ma Xiaoqian , Liao Yanfen
Published: January 2024

The high concentration of viral bioaerosols within the negative pressure isolation wards could pose a challenge to preventing potential cross-infection amongst healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients. Using the Euler–Lagrange methodology, this study numerically simulated the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of bioaerosols in a typical negative pressure isolation ward as well as determined the interaction of ventilation mode and patient posture on ward ventilation performance. The removal effect of particle groups produced by two respiratory behaviours (breathing and coughing) was quantitatively analyzed, and the effect of exhaust air ratio and air exchange rate on particle distribution was discussed. The results showed that the migration characteristics of bioaerosol particles were sensitive to both the ventilation pattern and patient posture, which showed significant interactions. On this basis, the ventilation pattern with the best ventilation performance was evaluated, showing a particle removal effect of 70–85%. Due to the initial momentum difference, the diffusion behaviour of cough and breath particles was not consistent, but optimizing the airflow distribution near the exhaust outlet could improve their removal efficiency in the meantime. Further studies found that equal exhaust air velocity ratio facilitated the removal of aerosol particles, and an appropriate increase in the air exchange rate could also reduce the particle content.
Super-appification: Conglomeration in the global digital economy
Authors: van der Vlist Fernando N , Helmond Anne , Dieter Michael , Weltevrede Esther
Published: January 2024

‘Super apps’ are on the rise. This study explores the characteristics, origins, and manifestations of these apps worldwide, presenting the concept of ‘super-appification’ to describe processes of conglomeration in the global digital economy. Super apps aim to become deeply integrated into people’s everyday lives, capturing and monetising essential activities. By analysing 41 super apps, we identify four distinct types of ‘super-app constellations’, showcasing different patterns and dynamics of conglomeration: ‘Swiss-Army Knife’ apps that consolidate services in one app, ‘Family’ apps that expand through subsidiaries, and ‘Host’ and ‘Hub’-style apps that leverage external developers. This typology offers a comprehensive understanding of the conglomeration patterns underpinning the rise of super apps, involving corporate, development and international expansion strategies. Ultimately, super-appification represents an intensified form of ‘appification’, as these apps increasingly pervade and commodify various aspects of everyday life, such as payment, insurance, grocery delivery, mobility and travel, with significant sociopolitical implications.
Investigation of physical properties of bamboo dust with marble powder filled ceramic composites: Sustainable approach for ceramic tiles manufacturing
Authors: Meena Rohit , Mallik Mainak , Yadav Ramkumar , Meena Anoj , Hashmi Abdul Wahab
Published: January 2024

The suggested bamboo and marble dust ceramic systems can be credited with superior qualities. It has a significant impact on the makeup of the crystalline phase. This study unquestionably sets the road for the effective use of bamboo dust and offers insightful information regarding the use of other bamboo dust waste. The present study provided a novel way to construct the ceramic tile by employing bamboo dust to partially replace marble powder as raw material to utilize bamboo dust from the North Eastern States fully. X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscope were used to characterize the impacts of bamboo dust on the various ingredient composition percentages on the chemistry, mineral phase, and morphology of the ceramic tiles made from bamboo dust. The effects of bamboo dust content on macro, microscopic-scale, and surface structures were extensively examined. Results showed that at 1145 °C, the rupture modulus of a sample containing 8% bamboo dust and 4% marble powder reached 41.94 N/mm2, while a sample with 0% bamboo dust and 12% marble powder reached 26.26 N/mm2. Additionally, it exceeds the specifications for ceramic tiles for its equivalent water absorption capacity, loss of ignition, and linear shrinkage, which were 9.47%, 13.68%, and 3.66%, respectively.
Understanding the rate-limiting step adsorption kinetics onto biomaterials for mechanism adsorption control
Authors: Mohamed Nasser Sahmoune , Abbas Moussa , Trari Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Biomaterials are a class of porous materials that have been widely exploited over the past two decades. However, the implications of controlling adsorption by rate-limiting steps are still not adequately established. Identifying the rate-limiting step is a promising approach for the design of adsorption systems. In this review, we study in detail the rate-limiting step of the adsorption of dyes in aqueous media on biomaterials to rationalize the factors governing the rate-limiting step involved in the adsorption process using empirical kinetics and mass transfer models. This knowledge is then applied to identify the best fit of these models to study the rate-controlling step involved in the adsorption process, which is crucial for the design of the adsorption system. This review first studies the limiting step of adsorption of dyes in an aqueous medium on biomaterials. Kinetic modeling is used to better understand the rate control step involved in biosorption. Generally, the equations used are empirical models of kinetics and mass transfer and the biomaterials come from the following categories: agricultural and industrial waste, algae, fungi, bacteria, and plants. In most adsorption studies reported in this review, the pseudo second-order model was found to be best suited for fitting the kinetic data of dyes on biomaterials, indicating that chemisorption is the rate-limiting step that controls adsorption. Concerning the diffusion effects of mass transfer, intraparticle diffusion is among the most often used models to examine the rate-limiting step which is controlled by both film diffusion and intraparticle diffusion. The first takes place when the external transfer is greater than the internal transfer while the opposite occurs in the case of porous diffusion. However, the majority of works do not study the real step of controlling the overall adsorption kinetics, namely, film diffusion or intraparticle diffusion.
Encapsulating creative collaborations: A case study in the design of cement tiles
Authors: Mizobuti Vinicius , Soares Gabriela Lamanna , Mello Antonio Carlos Laraia Figueira de , Matsui Diogo , Ilkiw Thais de Matos
Published: January 2024

Advances in computer-aided architectural design led to an increased interest in the field for cross-disciplinary creative collaborations. However, this process rarely accounts for the agents outside of the discipline’s intellectual framework, such as craftsmen, failing to include existing production capabilities in the digital transformation of the industry. To tackle this issue, we investigate an approach that implements encapsulated instruments as enablers of creative collaborations between computational designers and craftsmen. We evaluate this approach by designing three cement tile models, a traditional handmade construction element used in Brazil. The results demonstrate that encapsulated instruments expand the craft’s design space through creative decisions operated by the craftsman, and interviews with the tile makers elaborate on their perceived change in creative agency, identifying limitations when disrupting social roles and hierarchical relationships in craftsmanship. Results also raise opportunities for expanding this approach at other scales and systems, helping to democratize and distribute design knowledge.
Post-traumatic AV Fistula of the Hand Successfully Treated With Percutaneous Endovascular Laser Ablation: Report of a Case
Authors: Fresa Marco , Bruschi Laura , Grognuz Sarah , Meuli Joachim , Wehrli Laurent , Mazzolai Lucia
Published: January 2024

Acquired arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in the hand can occur after trauma, fracture, or surgery. It is a rare condition, and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. Clinically they appear as palpable or painful lesions that persist long after the local hematoma has resolved. We report a case of a young patient presenting with long-standing and invalidating pain of the hand caused by a post-traumatic AVF, treated with percutaneous endovascular laser ablation.
Arts-Based Approaches to Priority Setting: Current Applications and Future Possibilities
Authors: Archibald Mandy M. , Makinde Sharifat , Tongo Nicole
Published: January 2024

Background: Arts-based research methods and priority setting research both reflect growing commitments towards public and participant involvement in research activities. This has contributed to a growth of these respective methods across research disciplines and sectors, but their intersection has not been explored. Methods: We conducted a scoping review to map the state-of-the-science of arts-based approaches within priority setting research. We conducted an open search of three databases, conducted reference list mining, and hand-searched two journals to identify relevant articles. Of 5457 records retrieved, 11 met our pre-established inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel to produce narrative and descriptive summaries. Findings: All articles had some degree of health focus. Areas of priority setting centered on chronic illness, hard to reach populations, cancer survivorship, dental reform, and youth. In terms of artistic approaches, the majority of the articles included visual methods, with some articles utilizing multiple art approaches such as music, drawing, and filmmaking. Qualitative methods were used in all articles alongside the arts-based approaches, encompassing techniques such as interviews, discussions, and storytelling. Priority setting activites were mainly facilitated in group settings. The suggested benefits of arts-based approaches included enhancing participant communication, improving accessible research dissemination, and encouraging dialogues on identified health concerns. Challenges with using arts-based approaches included limitations on time and resources. Conclusion: Arts-based approaches to priority setting is an expanding field, with clear applications across various research contexts and priority focal areas. Further attention to the integration of arts-based approaches within priority setting, their theoretical underpinnings, and concurrent development and evaluation of arts-based priority setting methods are warranted.
Design of a novel two-degree-of-freedom translational-rotation low-frequency vibration isolation platform
Authors: Wang Shuai , Xin Dawei , Yu Lang , Zhang Qinghua
Published: January 2024

Multi-dimensional vibration isolation platforms often use parallel mechanisms to achieve multi-dimensional vibration isolation control. However, due to the high stiffness of the parallel mechanism, its own natural frequency is high, and it has good performance when applied to high-frequency vibration isolation, but it is hard to achieve low-frequency vibration isolation. This paper aims at the problem that the actual polishing and grinding equipment is often subjected to axial and circumferential low-frequency disturbances during operation, a novel C/2-(2-RRR) RR two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) translational-rotation low-frequency vibration isolation platform is proposed based on the singular configuration of planar 2-RRR mechanism. The coupling dynamic model of the vibration isolation platform is established, and the amplitude-frequency curve and force transmissibility curve are analyzed. The simulation analysis and prototype experiment are carried out by using the independent external excitation in both translational and rotational directions, and the corresponding linear system is compared to verify the effectiveness of the low-frequency vibration isolation of the two-degree-of-freedom vibration isolation platform.
Hierarchical Bayesian modeling of heterogeneous outcome variance in cluster randomized trials
Authors: Tong Guangyu , Tong Jiaqi , Jiang Yi , Esserman Denise , Harhay Michael O , Warren Joshua L
Published: January 2024

Background:

Heterogeneous outcome correlations across treatment arms and clusters have been increasingly acknowledged in cluster randomized trials with binary endpoints, where analytical methods have been developed to study such heterogeneity. However, cluster-specific outcome variances and correlations have yet to be studied for cluster randomized trials with continuous outcomes.

Methods:

This article proposes models fitted in the Bayesian setting with hierarchical variance structure to quantify heterogeneous variances across clusters and explain it with cluster-level covariates when the outcome is continuous. The models can also be extended to analyzing heterogeneous variances in individually randomized group treatment trials, with arm-specific cluster-level covariates, or in partially nested designs. Simulation studies are carried out to validate the performance of the newly introduced models across different settings.

Results:

Simulations showed that overall the newly introduced models have good performance, reporting low bias and approximately 95% coverage for the intraclass correlation coefficients and regression parameters in the variance model. When variances are heterogeneous, our proposed models had improved model fit over models with homogeneous variances. When used to analyze data from the Kerala Diabetes Prevention Program study, our models identified heterogeneous variances and intraclass correlation coefficients across clusters and examined cluster-level characteristics associated with such heterogeneity.

Conclusion:

We proposed new hierarchical Bayesian variance models to accommodate cluster-specific variances in cluster randomized trials. The newly developed methods inform the understanding of how an intervention strategy is implemented and disseminated differently across clusters and can help improve future trial design.
Does matrix transducer technology improve quality and repeatability of four-dimensional tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and mitral annular plane systolic excursion measurements?
Authors: Thomas Samantha , Erenbourg Anna , Chang Melissa , Ferreira Ana Gomes de Melo Tavares , Stevenson Gordon , Welsh Alec
Published: January 2024

Background:

Novel ultrasound technology and software processing allow offline evaluation of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and mitral annular plane systolic excursion measurements. We wished to compare both novel 4D matrix (eM6C) and conventional (RAB6-D) transducers with variable settings (electronic spatiotemporal image correlation, spatiotemporal image correlation and four-dimensional real time) to determine if there was a significant difference in absolute value, quality and repeatability of the resultant reconstructed image and M-mode trace.

Methods:

A blinded prospective cross-sectional study of normal fetuses from 23 to 38 weeks’ gestation were recruited. After routine sonography, four-dimensional volumes were stored and analysed using GE 4DView™ software. Statistical analysis explored variability, correlations and repeatability of the measurements with chi-square analysis, intraclass correlations and the Bland–Altman comparison plots. A scoring system was devised for image quality.

Results:

Eighteen participants generated 282 data volumes. Absolute values demonstrated some inconsistencies for both tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and mitral annular plane systolic excursion measurements with variations between transducers: the highest for the RAB6-D/spatiotemporal image correlation setting and the lowest for the four-dimensional real-time settings. The RAB6-D/spatiotemporal image correlation setting was the most repeatable combination (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.85). Poorest image quality (M-mode trace, four-chamber view, annuli) came from the RAB6-D/four-dimensional real-time combination with the eM6C/electronic spatiotemporal image correlation and RAB6-D/spatiotemporal image correlation settings being nearly identical.

Conclusion:

We show that transducer and setting combinations influence absolute tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/mitral annular plane systolic excursion measurements, so need to be articulated in future research. The transducer setting (electronic spatiotemporal image correlation/spatiotemporal image correlation/four-dimensional real time) was a more significant factor than the type of transducer (conventional vs matrix). Subjective image evaluation does not correlate well with repeatability of image acquisition. Further studies are needed to compare measurements using four-dimensional post-processing tools against conventional real-time measurements.
Data-driven prediction of indoor airflow distribution in naturally ventilated residential buildings using combined CFD simulation and machine learning (ML) approach
Authors: Quang Tran Van , Doan Dat Tien , Phuong Nguyen Lu , Yun Geun Young
Published: January 2024

Predicting indoor airflow distribution in multi-storey residential buildings is essential for designing energy-efficient natural ventilation systems. The indoor environment significantly impacts human health and well-being, considering the substantial time spent indoors and the potential health and safety risks faced daily. To ensure occupants’ thermal comfort and indoor air quality, airflow simulations in the built environment must be efficient and precise. This study proposes a novel approach combining Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations with machine learning techniques to predict indoor airflow. Specifically, we investigate the viability of employing a Deep Neural Network (DNN) model for accurately forecasting indoor airflow dispersion. The quantitative results reveal the DNN’s ability to faithfully reproduce indoor airflow patterns and temperature distributions. Furthermore, DNN approaches to investigate indoor airflow in the residential building achieved an 80% reduction in the time required to anticipate testing scenarios compared with CFD simulation, underscoring the potential for efficient indoor airflow prediction. This research underscores the feasibility and effectiveness of a data-driven approach, enabling swift and accurate indoor airflow predictions in naturally ventilated residential buildings. Such predictive models hold significant promise for optimizing indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency, thereby contributing to sustainable building design and operation.
Automated Insulin Delivery for Pregnant Women With Type 1 Diabetes: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Benhalima Katrien , Jendle Johan , Beunen Kaat , Ringholm Lene
Published: January 2024

Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems mimic an artificial pancreas via a predictive algorithm integrated with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and an insulin pump, thereby providing AID. Outside of pregnancy, AID has led to a paradigm shift in the management of people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), leading to improvements in glycemic control with lower risk for hypoglycemia and improved quality of life. As the use of AID in clinical practice is increasing, the number of women of reproductive age becoming pregnant while using AID is also expected to increase. The requirement for lower glucose targets than outside of pregnancy and for frequent adjustments of insulin doses during pregnancy may impact the effectiveness and safety of AID when using algorithms for non-pregnant populations with T1D. Currently, the CamAPS® FX is the only AID approved for use in pregnancy. A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) with CamAPS® FX demonstrated a 10% increase in time in range in a pregnant population with T1D and a baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥ 48 mmol/mol (6.5%). Off-label use of AID not approved for pregnancy are currently also being evaluated in ongoing RCTs. More evidence is needed on the impact of AID on maternal and neonatal outcomes. We review the current evidence on the use of AID in pregnancy and provide an overview of the completed and ongoing RCTs evaluating AID in pregnancy. In addition, we discuss the advantages and challenges of the use of current AID in pregnancy and future directions for research.
Mesenchymal stem cells overexpressing XIST induce macrophage M2 polarization and improve neural stem cell homeostatic microenvironment, alleviating spinal cord injury
Authors: Zhu Dan , Peng Tie , Zhang Zhenwang , Guo Shuang , Su Ying , Zhang Kangwei , Wang Jiawei , Liu Chao
Published: January 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant cause of disability worldwide, with limited treatment options. This study investigated the potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) modified with XIST lentiviral vector to modulate macrophage polarization and affect neural stem cell (NSC) microenvironment reconstruction following SCI. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that MID1 might be crucial for BMSCs’ treatment of SCI. XIST overexpression enriched Zmynd8 to the promoter region of MID1 and inhibited MID1 transcription, which promoted macrophage M2 polarization. In vitro experiments showed that BMSCs-XIST promoted NSC proliferation, migration, differentiation, and axonal growth by inducing macrophage M2 polarization, suppressing inflammation, and accelerating the re-establishment of the homeostatic microenvironment of NSCs. In vivo, animal experiments confirmed that BMSCs-XIST significantly alleviated SCI by promoting NSC differentiation and axon formation in the injured area. The study demonstrated the potential of XIST-overexpressing BMSCs for treating SCI by regulating macrophage polarization and homeostasis of the NSC microenvironment. These findings provide new insights into the development of stem cell-based therapies for SCI.
Minorities’ diminished psychedelic returns: Cardio-metabolic health
Authors: Viña Sean Matthew
Published: January 2024

Although there is a growing support for the protective factor of psychedelics to improve mental and physical health, these effects may differ across racial and ethnic groups. Race differences remain a critically understudied gap in psychedelic literature. Recent empirical research into Minority Diminished Psychedelic Returns suggests that Black Americans may gain little health benefits from psychedelic use. This study tests race differences in the association between Lifetime Classic Psychedelic Use and multiple indicators of cardio-metabolic health including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and Body Mass Index. This project uses pooled data of Black and White adults respondents from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) (2005 to 2019) (N = 421,477). The analysis includes a series of logistic and ordinary least square regression models conducted in Stata 18. Results demonstrate that Lifetime Psychedelic Use is associated with better cardio-metabolic health. However, regression models by race find that there is no association between LCPU and cardio metabolic health for Black people, while the positive associations remain significant for white people. Overall, results lend support for the MPDR theory.
Validation of the Sport Motivation Scale-II: Implications for the Portuguese Youth Sport System
Authors: Pereira Paulo , Santos Fernando , Marinho Daniel A.
Published: January 2024

Based on the tenets of self-determination theory, the Sport Motivation Scale-II is an 18-item instrument that consists of six subscales. Despite the numerous studies that have been conducted using self-determination theory in organized youth sport contexts, measures available to assess self-determined forms of motivation across socio-cultural contexts are scarce. This is particularly important because there are socio-cultural contexts that have diverse reward systems, competitive structures, and convey different social norms, values, and cultural nuances. The existence of measures available to assess self-determined forms of motivation across socio-cultural contexts may enable the development of a robust knowledge base that informs research-to-practice partnerships and potential changes across a complex youth sport landscape. The present study aimed to validate the factor structure of the Sport Motivation Scale-II with a sample of 239 Portuguese adolescent athletes. The participants’ ages ranged between 12 and 17 years old ( M = 14.39; SD = 1.35). Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to achieve the aim of this study. Findings showed that the six-factor model used by the authors presents a good adjustment concerning sports participants’ level of motivation toward sports practice. Moving forward, the Sport Motivation Scale-II may be used in future studies to help provide an understanding about athletes’ self-determination. Several practical and theoretical implications are provided.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Effect of Social Influence and Brand Image on Purchase Intention
Authors: Liang Shi-Zhu , Xu Jia-Lu , Huang Echo
Published: January 2024

Consumers live in a social media environment and naturally form a set of trust mechanism from close circles, internet celebrities, and online articles. However, no sufficient research to examine these relationships with social influence and the effect of trust on social influence. This study integrates these factors and brand image to examines their impact on purchase intention. A questionnaire and SEM were used to test the reliability and validity of the hypothesis. The results support that purchase intention is significantly influenced by social influence and brand image. The outstanding contributions are as follows: first, it expands the research scope of social influence; second, it is found that close circles is the vital dimension of social influence, followed by social media viewership and e-WOM readership. Finally, based on the trust mechanism, marketing suggestions are put forward.
Understanding Why Youth Drop Out of School in South Africa
Authors: Desai Rachana , Magan Ansuyah , Ruiter Robert A.C. , Reddy Priscilla S. , Mercken Liesbeth A.G.
Published: January 2024

Out of school youth (OSY) are adolescents who have not completed their schooling and are not currently enrolled in school. This study sought to understand why learners drop out of school by interviewing 41 OSY (aged 13–20 years). Respondent Driven Sampling was used to recruit OSY. Content analysis was used to analyze the data. Gender differences were found in the reasons for leaving school. Males dropped out due to poor school performance, vocational aspirations, and social interactions at school. Females dropped out due to family-related reasons. In males and females, friends played a role in students dropping out of school. Participants who performed well academically left school to be with their OSY friends. Those who did not pass and had friends who progressed to the next grade also dropped out of school. Preventing students from early school leaving involves targeting the interpersonal, school and policy levels with gender-specific intervention.
Teachers’ Perspectives on Disruptive Student Behaviors: The Interconnectedness of Environment and Early Childhood Education in Pakistan
Authors: Azeem Ashraf Muhammad , Alam Jan , Gladushyna Olesya
Published: January 2024

This study describes teachers’ perspectives on disruptive student behaviors in early childhood education classrooms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Using an ecological model, this paper describes interviews with 26 teachers working in early childhood education. The findings show that home, school, and society do not play optimal roles in children’s education, which leads to disruption in classrooms. Illiteracy and socioeconomic problems at home prevent parents from playing their required roles, and schools are often overcrowded and have unattractive classrooms. Teachers are minimally qualified and have few teaching-learning materials at their disposal. Fear of violence is another factor. These factors do not support the behavioral development of young children. The three major circles (home, school, society) that comprise a child’s ecology are inadequate, which leads to classroom disruption, lack of motivation, and poor behavior that endangers the continuation of education.
Culture’s Representation in Van Gulik’s Transcreated Novel The Chinese Maze Murders: A Multimodal Corpus Approach
Authors: Deng Lin
Published: January 2024

The Chinese Maze Murders, a Chinese culture-based detective novel transcreated by Dutch sinologist Robert Hans van Gulik, represents Chinese cultures multimodally and reconciles Chinese-English cultural gaps effectively. Figuring out what cross-cultural functions and contributions of illustration-text multimodal combinations in The Chinese Maze Murders make would be inspiring for effectively promoting and applying multimodal ways in Chinese-English cultural translation. Yet, there is a scarcity of translation studies investigating it directly. This multimodal corpus-based study first identifies the different culture-representing features of the illustration-text multimodal combinations in the Chinese and English versions of The Chinese Maze Murders quantitatively, and then proposes the fundamental functions and contributions of illustration-text combinations that could facilitate cross-cultural translation qualitatively. The corpus textual statistics show that the Chinese version comprises 23.04% material cultural elements and 76.96% non-material cultural elements. While the English version comprises 36.58% material cultural elements and 63.42% non-material cultural elements. The different type-allocation of textually represented cultural elements in two language versions is regarded as an operating result of the mechanism of illustration-text multimodal combinations. Based on further retroductive corpus statistics-derived example analysis, it is argued that illustration-text multimodal combinations could facilitate cross-cultural translation in (a) transforming abstract cultural elements into concrete cultural elements, (b) integrating cultural elements as “meaning wholes,” and (c) visualizing cultural implications. This study sheds new light on the cultural functions of illustration-text multimodal combinations in translation, which provides practical implications for mitigating the cultural incommensurability of Chinese-English translation.
Does Surgical Day of the Week Affect Hospital Course and Outcomes for Patients Undergoing Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery?
Authors: Graham Benjamin C , Lucasti Christopher , Scott Maxwell M , Baker Seth C , Vallee Emily K , Patel Dil V , Hamill Christopher L
Published: January 2024

Study Design

Retrospective Cohort Analysis.

Objectives

Extended hospital length of stay (LOS) poses a significant cost burden to patients undergoing adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between late-week surgery and LOS in patients undergoing ASD surgery.

Methods

256 patients who underwent ASD surgery between January 2018 and December 2021 by a single fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon comprised the patient sample. Demographics, intraoperative, and perioperative data were collected for the 256 patients who underwent ASD surgery. Patients were divided into two groups based on surgical day of the week: (1) Early-week (Monday/Tuesday) n = 126 and (2) Late-week (Thursday/Friday) n = 130. Descriptive statistics, T-tests, and linear and logistic regression models were used to analyze the data.

Results

Surgical details and sociodemographic characteristics did not differ between the groups. When controlling for TLIF/DLIF status and PSO status there was no difference in mean length of stay between the groups. The late-week group was associated with a greater risk of 30-day readmission, but there was no difference in complications, infections, or intraoperative complications.

Conclusions

We found no difference in mean length of stay between surgeries performed early in the week vs late in the week. Although late-week surgeries had higher 30-day readmission risk, all other outcomes, including complication rates, showed no significant differences. When adequate weekend post-operative care is available, we do not advise restricting ASD surgeries to specific weekdays.
Adherence Promotion With Tailored Motivational Messages: Proof of Concept and Message Preferences in Older Adults
Authors: Zhang Shenghao , Dieciuc Michael , Dilanchian Andrew , Lustria Mia Liza A. , Carr Dawn , Charness Neil , He Zhe , Boot Walter R.
Published: January 2024

This study examined the feasibility of using tailored text messages to promote adherence to longitudinal protocols and determined what facets of text message tone influence motivation. Forty-three older adults ( Mage = 73.21, SD = 5.37) were recruited to engage in video-game-based cognitive training for 10 consecutive days. Participants received encouraging text messages each morning that matched their highest or lowest ranking reasons for participating in the study, after which they rated how effective each message was in motivating them to play the games that day. After 10 days, participants rated all possible messages and participated in semi-structured interviews to elicit their preferences for these messages. Results showed that messages matching participants’ reasons for participating were more motivating than mismatched messages. Further, participants preferred messages that were personalized (i.e., use second person voice) and in formal tones. Messages consistent with these preferences were also rated as more motivating. These findings establish the feasibility of using message tailoring to promote adherence to longitudinal protocols and the relevance of tailoring messages to be personal and formal.
Bilateral Nephroblastomatosis With a Unilateral Wilms Tumor: A Case Report Highlighting Imaging Characteristics
Authors: Naggar Amine , Assila Saad , Laasri Khadija , Andour Hajar , Izi Zineb , Lamalmi Najat , El Haddad Siham , Allali Nazik , Chat Latifa
Published: January 2024

Nephrogenic rests (NRs) are foci of embryonic nephrogenic cells that persist beyond the 36th week of gestation. They are precursor lesions of Wilms tumor and are found incidentally in approximately 1% of infants. The term nephroblastomatosis (NBS) is utilized when nephrogenic rests extensively or multifocally affect the kidneys. We report a case of a left nephroblastoma with bilateral nephroblastomatosis, treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by a left nephrectomy, highlighting the imaging features of nephrogenic rests on ultrasound, CT, and MRI, and the potential possibilities of distinguishing nephroblastomas from nephrogenic rests in one hand, and the possibilities of distinguishing active nephrogenic rests from inactive ones in the other hand. We furthermore discuss the role of histology in making those distinctions, and the role of chemotherapy in reducing nephrogenic rests’ size and cellularity.
Relationship Between Revenue-based Urban Density Policy and Neighbourhood Satisfaction: Case of Tabriz, Iran
Authors: Baroghi Farideh , Nematollahi Simindokht , Ribeiro Paulo Jorge Gomes
Published: January 2024

Cities are facing with rising needs and financial constraints worldwide. In such a situation, zoning regulations (land-based financing policies) are often considered as a potential policy tools to increase density to finance a diverse range of public infrastructures by local governments. Based on a questionnaire survey conducted with 384 participants from the neighbourhood residents and in-person site visit in Tabriz, Iran, this article investigates the relationship between revenue-based density selling policy implementation and neighbourhood satisfaction and urban resilience. The findings demonstrated that there is significant alignment among residential dissatisfaction about implementation of ‘density selling’ policy. All examined qualitative indicators represented lower level of the residents’ satisfaction with the new situation. Urban densification policies through the selling floor area ratio (FAR) permission have brought negative consequences in the physical and social dimensions. The findings also revealed the high level of residents’ awareness and their concerns about natural hazards. The findings can be valuable to give decision makers and city managers a better understanding of the consequences of using revenue-based urban development.
Sustainable Luxury Fashion in India: A Case of Grassroot by Anita Dongre
Authors: Ahmad Gufran , Dubey S. K.
Published: January 2024

The present case is based on an Indian fashion brand, ‘Grassroot by Anita Dongre’, focusing on sustainable luxury. Fashion designer, Anita Dongre, who is behind the brand, is helping to revive the old Indian art and crafts through its environment-friendly luxury offerings. The present study examine the issues that have aroused in sustainable luxury worldwide. It explores the various sustainable practices and challenges being face by Anita Dongre at her ‘Grassroot by Anita Dongre’ brand for inculcating sustainability. It also traverses the rise of Anita Dongre as one of the most premier fashion designer of India. The current case is an example of how and why Luxury brands should focus on sustainability as a key differentiating factor in an emerging economy like India. In future, we might come across laws and policies for the promotion and development of sustainable practices in the fashion industry, as India being the world’s largest producer of organic cotton has immense potential for future growth.
Arsenoústalečite, Cu12(As2Te2)Se13, a new mineral, and crystal structures of arsenoústalečite and stibioústalečite
Authors: Sejkora Jiří , Biagioni Cristian , Škácha Pavel , Musetti Silvia , Mauro Daniela
Published: January 2024

Arsenoústalečite is a new mineral discovered in a sample collected from the abandoned Ústaleč deposit near Horažďovice, SW Bohemia, Czech Republic. It occurs as rare anhedral grains, up to 40 μm in size, in a calcite gangue, associated with stibioústalečite, hakite-(Hg), berzelianite and uraninite. Arsenoústalečite is dark grey, with a metallic lustre. Mohs hardness is ca. 3½–4; calculated density is 5.730 g/cm3. In reflected light, arsenoústalečite is pale grey with a yellowish shade; it is isotropic. Internal reflections were not observed. Reflectance values for the four COM wavelengths in air [R (%) λ (nm)] are: 33.3 (470); 33.1 (546); 33.0 (589); and 32.9 (650). The empirical formula of arsenoústalečite is (Cu5.81Ag0.17)Σ5.98(Cu5.95Fe0.02Zn0.02Hg0.01)Σ6.00(As1.40Sb0.87Te1.73)Σ4.00(Se10.30S2.32)Σ12.61. The ideal formula is Cu12(As2Te2)Se13, which requires (in wt.%) Cu 34.76, As 6.83, Te 11.63, Se 46.78, total 100.00. Arsenoústalečite is cubic, I$\bar{4}$3m, with unit-cell parameters a = 10.6580(19) Å, V = 1210.7(6) Å3 and Z = 2. The strongest reflections of the calculated powder X-ray diffraction pattern [d, Å (I, %) hkl] are: 3.077 (100) 222, 2.848 (10) 321, 1.946 (12) 521, 1.884(52) 440 and 1.608(21) 622. According to the single-crystal X-ray diffraction data (R1 = 0.0285 on the basis of 334 unique reflections with Fo > 4σFo and 24 refined parameters), arsenoústalečite is isotypic with other tetrahedrite-group minerals. The crystal structure of co-existing stibioústalečite, with an empirical formula of (Cu5.69Ag0.07)Σ5.76(Cu5.80Zn0.13Fe0.06Hg0.01)Σ6.00(Sb1.82As0.42Te1.76)Σ4.00(Se9.52S3.10)Σ12.62 and unit-cell parameters a = 10.6975(16) Å, V = 1224.2(5) Å3 and Z = 2, was refined to R1 = 0.0191 on the basis of 267 unique reflections with Fo > 4σFo and 24 refined parameters. Structural relationships and crystal-chemistry of both members of the ústalečite series are discussed. Arsenoústalečite is named after its type locality, the Ústaleč deposit and its chemical composition. The mineral and its name have been approved by the Commission on New Minerals, Nomenclature and Classification of the International Mineralogical Association (IMA2022-116).
The remission status of AML patients after allo-HCT is associated with a distinct single-cell bone marrow T-cell signature
Authors: Mathioudaki Anna , Wang Xizhe , Sedloev David , Huth Richard , Kamal Aryan , Hundemer Michael , Liu Yi , Vasileiou Spyridoula , Lulla Premal , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Dreger Peter , Luft Thomas , Sauer Tim , Schmitt Michael , Zaugg Judith B. , Pabst Caroline
Published: January 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematologic malignancy for which allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) often remains the only curative therapeutic approach. However, incapability of T cells to recognize and eliminate residual leukemia stem cells might lead to an insufficient graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect and relapse. Here, we performed single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) on bone marrow (BM) T lymphocytes and CD34+ cells of 6 patients with AML 100 days after allo-HCT to identify T-cell signatures associated with either imminent relapse (REL) or durable complete remission (CR). We observed a higher frequency of cytotoxic CD8+ effector and gamma delta (γδ) T cells in CR vs REL samples. Pseudotime and gene regulatory network analyses revealed that CR CD8+ T cells were more advanced in maturation and had a stronger cytotoxicity signature, whereas REL samples were characterized by inflammatory tumor necrosis factor/NF-κB signaling and an immunosuppressive milieu. We identified ADGRG1/GPR56 as a surface marker enriched in CR CD8+ T cells and confirmed in a CD33-directed chimeric antigen receptor T cell/AML coculture model that GPR56 becomes upregulated on T cells upon antigen encounter and elimination of AML cells. We show that GPR56 continuously increases at the protein level on CD8+ T cells after allo-HCT and confirm faster interferon gamma (IFN-γ) secretion upon re-exposure to matched, but not unmatched, recipient AML cells in the GPR56+ vs GPR56– CD8+ T-cell fraction. Together, our data provide a single-cell reference map of BM–derived T cells after allo-HCT and propose GPR56 expression dynamics as a surrogate for antigen encounter after allo-HCT.
PRMT3 methylates HIF-1α to enhance the vascular calcification induced by chronic kidney disease
Authors: Zhou Guangyu , Zhang Chen , Peng Hui , Su Xuesong , Huang Qun , Zhao Zixia , Zhao Guangyi
Published: January 2024

Background

Medial vascular calcification is commonly identified in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and seriously affects the health and life quality of patients. This study aimed to investigate the effects of protein arginine methyltransferase 3 (PRMT3) on vascular calcification induced by CKD.

Methods

A mice model of CKD was established with a two-step diet containing high levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were subjected to β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) treatment to induce the osteogenic differentiation as an in vitro CKD model.

Results

PRMT3 was upregulated in VSMCs of medial artery of CKD mice and β-GP-induced VSMCs. The inhibitor of PRMT3 (SGC707) alleviated the vascular calcification and inhibited the glycolysis of CKD mice. Knockdown of PRMT3 alleviated the β-GP-induced osteogenic transfomation of VSMCs by the repression of glycolysis. Next, PRMT3 interacted with hypoxia-induced factor 1α (HIF-1α), and the knockdown of PRMT3 downregulated the protein expression of HIF-1α by weakening its methylation. Gain of HIF-1α reversed the PRMT3 depletion-induced suppression of osteogenic differentiation and glycolysis of VSMCs.

Conclusion

The inhibitory role of PRMT3 depletion was at least mediated by the regulation of glycolysis upon repressing the methylation of HIF-1α.
Decellularized nucleus pulposus matrix/chitosan hybrid hydrogel combined with nucleus pulposus stem cells and GDF5-loaded microspheres for intervertebral disc degeneration prevention
Authors: Ma Tao , Liu Chen , Zhao Quanlai , Zhang Yu , Xiao Liang
Published: January 2024

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is considered an important pathological basis for spinal degenerative diseases. Tissue engineering is a powerful therapeutic strategy that can effectively restore the normal biological properties of disc units. In this study, hydrogels loaded with growth/differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) and stem cells were combined to provide an effective strategy for nucleus pulposus regeneration.

Methods

Nucleus pulposus stem cells (NPSCs) were obtained by low-density inoculation and culture, and their stem cell characteristics were verified by flow cytometry and a tri-lineage-induced differentiation experiment. A decellularized nucleus pulposus matrix (DNPM) and chitosan hybrid hydrogel was prepared, and GDF5-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres were incorporated into the hydrogels to obtain a composite hydrogels with GDF5-loaded microspheres. Taking bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) as a reference, the effect of composite hydrogels with GDF5-loaded microspheres on the chondrogenic differentiation of NPSCs was evaluated. A model of intervertebral disc degeneration induced by acupuncture on the tail of rats was constructed, and the repair effect of composite hydrogels with GDF5-loaded microspheres combined with NPSCs on IDD was observed.

Results

Stem cell phenotype identification, stemness gene expression and tri-lineage-induced differentiation confirmed that NPSCs had characteristics similar to those of BMSCs. The rat DNPM and chitosan hybrid hydrogels had good mechanical properties, and the GDF5-loaded microspheres sustainably released GDF5. NPSCs grew normally in the composite hydrogels and gradually expressed a chondrocyte phenotype. Animal experiments showed that the composite hydrogels with GDF5-loaded microspheres combined with NPSCs effectively promoted nucleus pulposus regeneration and that the effect of the hydrogels on the repair of IDD was significantly better than that of BMSCs.

Conclusion

GDF5-loaded microspheres combined with DNPM/chitosan composite hydrogels can effectively promote the differentiation of NPSCs into nucleus pulposus-like cells and effectively preventIDD.