bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sacred space of the Yenisei North in virtual projects
Authors: Dvoretskaya Anna Pavlovna , Pikov Nikita Olegovich , Slabukha Aleksandr Vasil'evich , Mekhovskii Vadim Aleksandrovich
Published: December 2023

The historical and cultural heritage of the Yenisei North has been formed over several centuries. The article provides recommendations on the use of new methods related to the graphic, digital reconstruction of unique sacred objects of Russian old-timers of the Yenisei North. The novelty of the research lies in the fact that the article for the first time analyzes the results of research and design work with cultural heritage, its presentation by means of 3D modeling and the creation of virtual tours of the Siberian Federal University, since 2009. The author's developments on modeling the lost objects of Yeniseisk and the Lower Angara region, prepared on the basis of photographic documents and scientific and technical information, are analyzed. The information potential of panoramic photography of more than 20 objects of religious heritage of the Yenisei North, the territory of the primary settlement of Russians in Eastern Siberia is revealed.  Using the example of the information system of the Siberian Federal University "SACRA", developed by the authors, a classification description of objects and methods for providing distributed access to data on sacred objects to representatives of the professional community and a wide audience are proposed. It is concluded that such a digital platform allows to reveal the cultural potential of the Yenisei North, expands the possibilities of branding the territory, promotes the popularization of the historical and cultural heritage of the most remote territories, and increases historical knowledge about individual objects. New digital technologies make it possible to create aesthetically outstanding visualizations while preserving the historical authenticity of the reconstructed objects. In addition, it remains possible to introduce interactive technologies and publish virtual reconstruction on the Internet. The created virtual "product" has the possibility of long-term improvement, it is designed for development, expansion and possible correction.As new sources, historical information, artifacts are revealed, as well as new technological opportunities appear, the already created digital complex of the sacred space of the Yenisei North will receive both updated content and an updated creative form of presentation.
Editorial II. Design education in China
Authors: Zhang Yang , Pan Lusheng
Published: December 2023

China’s design education stems from education in craft and fine art. The beginning of China’s design education can be associated with artist Li Ruiqing, who was a scholar of the Imperial Academy. During the late Qing Dynasty, in 1906, he established the subject of ‘Crafts and Pictures’ at the Nanjing Educator School, which is now Southeast University. During the next 100 years, China’s design education passed through four stages: a focus on patterns and crafts, crafts and ornament, ornament and design, and creative design. The Japanese model of design, which is reflected in the first three stages and can be traced back to the Bauhaus design education system, had as its purpose ‘to educate the Craftsman-Artist’ (Chapkova & Zhang, 2019; Bredendieck, 1962, p. 15). Therefore, art and ornament have long been considered important parts of design, and the history of China’s design education represents the development history of fine art institutes to a certain degree (Wu, 2001).
Pueblos Indígenas, Naturaleza y Ecocentrismo: estándares internacionales y una mirada comparada desde Brasil
Authors: Faundes Peñafiel Juan Jorge , Campos Melo Patrícia Perrone , Souza Batista de Azevedo Rudolf Renata Helena
Published: December 2023

Este trabajo tiene por objeto: (i) examinar el papel que las normas constitucionales que reconocen los derechos de los Pueblos indígenas y cómo también defienden la Naturaleza, y viceversa, respecto de las normas de protección de la Naturaleza y su interacción con la protección de los derechos de los Pueblos Indígenas; (ii) evaluar un posible “giro hermenéutico” en la interpretación jurídica que lleve a la superación de un paradigma antropocéntrico hacia otro ecocéntrico, con el potencial de redefinir todo el orden normativo; (iii)desde esta experiencia, contribuir al abordaje crítico de otros contextos normativos latinoamericanos que enfrenten contextos similares en la relación medioambiente y pueblos indígenas. Con esos fines, la sección 1) explica algunos conceptos y categorías operativas; las secciones 2) y 3) tratan del régimenconstitucional aplicable a los Pueblos Indígenas y a la Naturaleza en Brasil; la sección 4) aborda las normas del Derecho Internacional de los derechos humanos que los regulan. La sección 5) explica la relación de protección mutua entre los Pueblos Indígenas y la Naturaleza. La sección 6) analiza los alcances del giro hermenéutico econcéntrico en el ámbito constitucional. El trabajo se sostiene esencialmente en una revisión bibliografía.
Ceremonias y Símbolos: Aportes al Diálogo Interreligioso en la Educación Intercultural
Authors: Sepúlveda Pizarro Jéssica , Ortiz Chavez Conny , Carihuentro Millaleo Sergio , Castillo Muñoz Andrea
Published: December 2023

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo mostrar los principales resultados del trabajo de sistematización sobre la experiencia de convivencia interreligiosa del establecimiento educacional católico, Liceo Intercultural Técnico Profesional Guacolda. Específicamente, se centra en la participación del estudiantado en las ceremonias de dos tradiciones religiosas y su posible influencia en la apertura al diálogo interreligioso. El interés temático obedece a que una de las características fundamentales del establecimiento educacional y que define su identidad como proyecto educativo intercultural, es la realización de ceremonias religiosas católicas y mapuches[1], las cuales presentan dos aspectos distintivos: poseen un fundamento técnico - curricular, y, segundo, su autenticidad al seguir los protocolos rituales de cada tradición religiosa. La sistematización, desde una metodología dialéctica: praxis-teoría-praxis, lleva a problematizar principalmente la categoría diálogo interreligioso, muy discutible en un contexto de educación intercultural. La aproximación al tema de estudio desde la dimensión religiosa – poco explorada en los estudios interculturales – aporta información valiosa que enriquece la comprensión de la convivencia intercultural. Se concluye lo siguiente: la relevancia de la formación espiritual fecundada por las dos tradiciones religiosas, la importancia de los símbolos en la construcción de la identidad y la identificación de tres tipologías del estudiantado que correlaciona la formación de la identidad religiosa y su apertura al diálogo interreligioso.
 
 
[1] Para evitar confusión en la expresión plural de la palabra mapuche, se utilizará mapuches, pero en rigor las palabras en mapudungun no debieran pluralizarse con “s”, sino anteponer la partícula “pu”, que es un pluralizador de sustantivos.
Reclusas latinoamericanas y maternidad: ¿experiencia totalitaria o de agencia?
Authors: Slootweg Johanna Corrine , Mansilla Agüero Miguel Angel
Published: December 2023

El objetivo de este artículo es presentar estudios carcelarios sobre la experiencia de maternidad en la cárcel de algunos países latino americanos y relacionarlos con los conceptos de institución totalitaria de la cárcel de Goffman (1984), de la función de vigilar y castigar de Foucault (1998) y del sujeto agente carcelaria de Montero Lucic (2005). La metodología empleada es la revisión bibliográfica. Se revisarán los siguientes aspectos de la maternidad carcelaria en los centros penitenciarios en Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Uruguay, México y Brasil: los derechos reproductivos de las mujeres encarceladas, el derecho a la capacitación y trabajo de las madres encarceladas, la infra-estructura de los centros penitenciarios para madres e hijos, las medidas disciplinarias para madres encarceladas, programas de cuidados especiales penitenciarios para mujeres embarazadas. Los resultados indican que la cárcel para las reclusas madres latinoamericanas representa generalmente una institución de control, vigilante y castigadora e infrecuentemente les permita una posición de “sujeto agente” generando sus propias estrategias de adaptación en el cautiverio
A REVIEW OF THE MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BEHAVIORAL AND TRADITIONAL ECONOMICS: A FOCUS ON THE IMPACT OF NUDGE THEORY ON PUBLIC POLICIES AND ITS APPLICATIONS
Authors: BALAWI Ayman , AYOUB Asad
Published: December 2023

This paper explores the distinctions between behavioral and traditional economics by analyzing recent literature. It underscores the importance of employing nudge theory in economic decision-making, its impact on consumer choices, and its role in shaping public policies. Data synthesis involved a search across EBSCO Discovery, Google Scholar, and databases like Academic Search Complete, Business Source Premium, and ScienceDirect, yielding 40 relevant articles from 324 initial results. The study contrasts traditional economics, rooted in individual rationality, with behavioral economics, which incorporates psychological and neurological factors. Results reveal that Nudges are recognized as cost-effective, behavior-focused interventions, successfully applied in diverse policy contexts. The Nudge theory's ability to influence behavior through positive reinforcement and indirect suggestions is highlighted. This paper underscores the value of leveraging behavioral economics with nudges to inform decision-making in marketing, social policy, and economic development.
Radiologic grading scores enhance clinical model's prognostic ability for Guillain–Barré syndrome
Authors: Fang Qiang , Wu Danyang , Wang Bao , Cao Lili , Cai Shifeng , Sun Xiubin , He Jingzhen
Published: December 2023

Objective

To assess the value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) grading scores based on lumbosacral muscle denervation edema in predicting the course of Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS).

Methods

We collected data from 354 GBS patients and developed MRI grading criteria (5‐point scale) based on the transverse area and longitudinal length of lumbosacral edema. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with GBS prognosis among 12 demographic and radiological features. Clinical models and clinical‐MRI models were separately trained and validated by data from Institution 1. External test was performed using data from Institution 2. Differences between the models were assessed using the z‐test.

Results

Four clinical factors (sex, albumin cytological dissociation in cerebrospinal fluid, medical research council [MRC] sum score at admission, and MRC sum score at discharge [odds ratio, 0.24–5.15; all p < 0.001]) and MRI grading scores (odds ratio, 2.44; p < 0.001) are independent prognostic factors for GBS patients. The shallow neural network achieved the best prognostic performance both clinical model (accuracy of external test cohort, 83.96%) and clinical‐MRI model (accuracy of external test cohort, 90.56%). A significant difference between clinical and clinical‐MRI model was also found (clinical model vs. clinical‐MRI model, area under the receiver operating curve, 0.84 (95% CI: [0.71, 0.91]) vs. 0.97 (95% CI: [0.86, 0.99]), p < 0.001).

Interpretation

The MRI grading scores for muscle denervation edema may serve as a potential prognostic risk factor for GBS. Furthermore, they significantly improve the prognostic performance of standalone clinical model in predicting GBS prognosis.
An Online Program for Primary Care Practitioners to Enhance Confidence in Ability to Care for Patients With or at Risk of Painful Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Mandl Lisa A. , Lin Myriam A. , Gottesman Sarah P. , Mich‐Gennari Erin , Wall Nicole , Nathif Anan , Ma Xiaoyue , Aizer Juliet
Published: December 2023

Objective

Primary care practitioners (PCPs) care for the majority of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Despite the existing evidence‐based guidelines, PCPs often feel unequipped to evaluate and effectively treat patients with KOA. To address this need, we designed and implemented a free internet‐based program focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of KOA. We assessed whether the program led to improvements in participants’ confidence in their knowledge and skills related to effectively recognizing and caring for patients with or at risk of KOA.

Methods

We used Caffarella's integrative model to develop a program aligned with the American College of Rheumatology 2019 Guideline for the treatment of KOA. The program incorporated 18 case‐based questions to provide retrieval practice and mastery experiences. We assessed changes in participants’ confidence in their KOA knowledge and skills after program completion.

Results

Of the first 353 learners completing the program, 53.8% were women, 41.9% had a clinical focus in primary care, and 69.1% were nonphysicians. Overall confidence in KOA knowledge and skills improved after program completion (P < 0.001; effect size = 1.28, 95% confidence interval 1.12–1.45), with largest improvements among participants with lower pre‐program confidence. A total of 95.8% of participants indicated they would recommend the program to others.

Conclusion

A free online program focusing on the effective care for patients with KOA attracted a wide range of learners, even though it targeted PCPs. Participants overwhelmingly endorsed it as highly relevant and would recommend it to others. Whether improvements in confidence translate into better patient outcomes is an important area for future research.
Encoded Magnetization for Programmable Soft Miniature Machines by Covalent Assembly of Modularly Coupled Microgels
Authors: Wei Tanyong , Zhao Ruizhou , Fang Lijun , Li Zongze , Yang Ming , Zhan Zhen , Cheang U. Kei , Hu Chengzhi
Published: December 2023

The bottom‐up assembly of premagnetized microgels offers remarkable flexibility in programmability, material selection, and complexity for fabricating programmable magnetic soft machines with discrete 3D magnetization profiles. However, the current microgel bonding encounters challenges due to the utilization of adhesives for attachment, biocompatibility for in vivo applications, and the need for elevated temperature for self‐healing materials. Here, an approach is presented that leverages N‐hydroxysuccinimide ester‐activated sodium alginate (SA‐NHS) and chitosan (CS) to form modular gels for on‐demand assembly through covalent bonding, yielding a tough and durable interface. Photolithography‐based patterning and magnetic maneuverability are imparted by introducing poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate and ferromagnetic particles into SA‐NHS or CS, resulting in the creation of modularized magnetic or nonmagnetic microgels. Different magnetization profiles of the modular microgel can be achieved by magnetizing the ferromagnetic particles inside the microgel. To prove the versatility of the proposed method, several programmable magnetic soft machines are developed for various application scenarios, including heterogeneous cell‐laden hydrogel assemblies, multisegmented magnetic soft swimmers, programmable magnetic switches for electric circuits, and magnetically triggered release from drug‐encapsulated magnetic capsules. This proposed approach holds great potential to engineer highly intricate and hierarchical architectures, enhancing the functionality, versatility, and adaptability of programmable soft machines.
Versatile Stretchable Conductor with Exceptional Resilience and Rapid Rebound Capabilities: Toward Sustainable and Damage‐Resistant Soft Electronics
Authors: Liu Shanqiu , Li Yizhen , Wen Jun , Shen Zhenxiang , Meng Qiu , Liu Qing , Yang Fan , Yu Zheng Si , Li Jingguo , Sun Zhiyong , Zhuang Guilin , Yang Jintao
Published: December 2023

Stretchable conductors (SCs) have garnered significant attention in both academia and industry, owing to their promising applications in flexible electronics. However, achieving a highly resilient and rapidly rebounding SC that enables prompt electrical response to applied strain, while also being fully recyclable and self‐healable, remains a challenge. Here, the design and preparation of a high‐performance SC based on a small bio‐molecule (α‐Lipoic acid) are reported, using a straightforward, cost‐effective, and scalable method. The engineered SC exhibits a ≈100% rebound ratio and fast rebound speed (≈0.4 s) under repeated high strains, along with outstanding electrical sensitivity to both deformation and temperature variation. This ensures that the SC possesses high precision and real‐time sensing attributes. Moreover, the SC features high optical transparency (>97%), robust reversible adhesion to diverse surfaces (up to 5.0 MPa), efficient room‐temperature self‐healing properties, and full recyclability. The superior properties of the SC are fundamentally attributed to the installed hierarchical dynamic bonding at the molecular level, which enables continuous energy dissipation and is analyzed through DFT calculations. The developed SC holds great potential for applications in soft electronics and human–machine interfaces.
Features of Anisotropic Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Kudryavtseva Valeriya , Sukhorukov Gleb B.
Published: December 2023

Natural materials are anisotropic. Delivery systems occurring in nature, such as viruses, blood cells, pollen, and many others, do have anisotropy, while delivery systems made artificially are mostly isotropic. There is apparent complexity in engineering anisotropic particles or capsules with micron and submicron sizes. Nevertheless, some promising examples of how to fabricate particles with anisotropic shapes or having anisotropic chemical and/or physical properties are developed. Anisotropy of particles, once they face biological systems, influences their behavior. Internalization by the cells, flow in the bloodstream, biodistribution over organs and tissues, directed release, and toxicity of particles regardless of the same chemistry are all reported to be factors of anisotropy of delivery systems. Here, the current methods are reviewed to introduce anisotropy to particles or capsules, including loading with various therapeutic cargo, variable physical properties primarily by anisotropic magnetic properties, controlling directional motion, and making Janus particles. The advantages of combining different anisotropy in one entity for delivery and common problems and limitations for fabrication are under discussion.
High number of candidate gene variants are identified as disease‐causing in a period of 4 years
Authors: Hills Sonia , Li Qifei , Madden Jill A. , Genetti Casie A. , Brownstein Catherine A. , Schmitz‐Abe Klaus , Beggs Alan H. , Agrawal Pankaj B.
Published: December 2023

Advances in bioinformatic tools paired with the ongoing accumulation of genetic knowledge and periodic reanalysis of genomic sequencing data have led to an improvement in genetic diagnostic rates. Candidate gene variants (CGVs) identified during sequencing or on reanalysis but not yet implicated in human disease or associated with a phenotypically distinct condition are often not revisited, leading to missed diagnostic opportunities. Here, we revisited 33 such CGVs from our previously published study and determined that 16 of them are indeed disease‐causing (novel or phenotype expansion) since their identification. These results emphasize the need to focus on previously identified CGVs during sequencing or reanalysis and the importance of sharing that information with researchers around the world, including relevant functional analysis to establish disease causality.
COL1A1 regulates the apoptosis of embryonic stem cells by mediating the PITX1/TBX4 signaling
Authors: Du Xiangping , Wu Xinle , Yu Lirong , Min Wu , Chen Gan , Liu Fadi , Li Jian
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the regulatory function of COL1A1 against the apoptosis of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and the potential function in congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV).

Methods

Muscle tissues were collected from 20 children with CTEV and 20 children without CTEV, followed by detecting the expression of COL1A1 using the RT‐PCR method. COL1A1 was knocked down in H1 and H9 human ESCs using the RNA interference technology, followed by determining the level of COL1A1, PITX1, TBX4, HOXD10, Fas, FasL, and Bax using the Western blotting assay.

Results

COL1A1 was found markedly upregulated in muscle tissues of CTEV children. In H1 and H9 human ESCs, compared to the empty vector, COL1A1, PITX1, TBX4, HOXD10, Fas, FasL, and Bax were found notably downregulated after transfected with the siRNA targeting COL1A1.

Conclusion

COL1A1 induced the apoptosis of ESCs by mediating the PITX1/TBX4 signaling and might be a potential target for treating CTEV.
Inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress and genetic disturbance in rheumatoid arthritis rats supported by alfalfa seeds metabolomic constituents via blocking interleukin‐1receptor.
Authors: Aboul Naser Asmaa F. , Ahmed Yomna R. , Mohammed Mona A. , Aboelmagd Mohamed , Aboutabl Mona E. , Hassan Entesar E. , Khalil Wagdy K. B. , Hamed Manal A.
Published: December 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by aggressive cartilage and bone erosion. This work aimed to evaluate the metabolomic profile of Medicago sativa L. (MS) (alfalfa) seeds and explore its therapeutic impact against RA in rats. Arthritis was induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) and its severity was assessed by the arthritis index. Treatment with MS seeds butanol fraction and interlukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RA) were evaluated through measuring interlukin‐1 receptor (IL‐1R) type 1 gene expression, interlukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), oxidative stress markers, C‐reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), caspase‐3 (Cas‐3), intracellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), DNA fragmentation, and chromosomal damage. Total phenolics/ flavonoids content in the ethyl acetate, butanol fraction and crude extract of MS seeds were estimated. The major identified compounds were Quercetin, Trans‐taxifolin, Gallic acid, 7,4′‐Dihydroxyflavone, Cinnamic acid, Kudzusaponin SA4, Isorhamnetin 3‐O‐beta‐D‐2′′,3′′,4′′‐triacetylglucopyranoside, Apigenin, 5,7,4′‐Trihydroxy‐3′‐methoxyflavone, Desmethylxanthohumol, Pantothenic acid, Soyasapogenol E, Malvidin, Helilandin B, Stigmasterol, and Wairol. Treatment with MS seeds butanol fraction and IL‐1RA enhanced all the biochemical parameters and the histopathological features of the ankle joint. In conclusion, Trans‐taxifolin was isolated for the first time from the genus Medicago. MS butanol fraction seeds extract and IL‐1 RA were considered as anti‐rheumatic agents.
Effect of Contractubex phonophoresis on postsurgical scar of carpal tunnel release: A case report
Authors: Bokaee Fateme
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Contractubex phonophoresis can be used in clinical setting to manage postsurgical scar after carpal tunnel release. Contractubex phonophoresis can improve pliability, height, and tenderness of the scar.

Scar is one of the most common complications after open release of carpal tunnel. Scars are mentally and physically disturbing, and they can result into itching and pain. Scar after release of carpal tunnel can lead to compression of median nerve and failure of surgery. Various treatments are suggested for scar management. topical drugs are one of these treatments. Phonophoresis of topical drugs can enhance delivery of topical drugs. In present case, author report the effect of phonophoresis of Contractubex on postsurgical scar after carpal tunnel release. Result indicated that phonophoresis of Contractubex can be effective in scar management.
NIR‐emitting Electrochromic Windows for Cold Climate Region Buildings
Authors: Pinheiro Daniela , Fernandes Mariana , Pereira Rui F. P. , Pereira Sónia , Correia Sandra F. H. , Silva M. Manuela , Fortunato Elvira , Ferreira Rute A. S. , Gonçalves Maria Cristina , de Zea Bermudez Verónica
Published: December 2023

Electrochromic devices (ECDs) comprising visible/near‐infrared (NIR) transparent amorphous indium zinc oxide (a‐IZO) outermost layers and novel NIR‐emitting electrolytes are proposed for smart windows of buildings in cold climate regions. The electrolytes are composed of a di‐urethane cross‐linked poly(oxyethylene)(POE)/siloxane hybrid matrix (d‐Ut(600), 600 is the average molecular weight of the POE chains in gmol−1), 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ionic liquid, and the Er(tta)3(H2O)2 complex (tta− is 2‐thenoyltrifluoracetonate). The electrolytes, synthesized by sol‐gel route, were obtained as transparent, flexible, and hydrophilic monoliths with nanoscale surface roughness, exhibiting emission in the NIR wavelength region. The first electro‐optical tests, performed in 2019, with an archetypal ECD including amorphous tungsten oxide and crystalline nickel oxide as EC layers, a‐IZO as outermost layers, and d‐Ut(600)400Er(tta)3(H2O)2[Bmim]Cl (400 is the molar ratio of oxyethylene units/Er3+ ion) as the electrolyte, demonstrated rather low coloration efficiency (CEin/CEout) values of −4/+6 cm2 C−1 at 555 nm. After 3 years of storage at rest in the dark and at room temperature, the same device demonstrates a huge performance enhancement, leading to CEin/CEout values about two orders of magnitude higher, apart from higher optical density, and improved cycling stability. In addition, this device offers a bright hot, and semi‐bright warm dual modulation operation suitable for smart windows of skylights, roof lights, upper windows, inclined glazing, and privacy glazing of buildings located in cold climate regions.
Titin takes centerstage among cytoskeletal contributions to myocardial passive stiffness
Authors: Loescher Christine M. , Linke Wolfgang A.
Published: December 2023

Both diastolic filling and systolic pumping of the heart are dependent on the passive stiffness characteristics of various mechanical elements of myocardium. However, the specific contribution from each element, including the extracellular matrix, actin filaments, microtubules, desmin intermediate filaments, and sarcomeric titin springs, remains challenging to assess. Recently, a mouse model allowing for precise and acute cleavage of the titin springs was used to remove one mechanical element after the other from cardiac fibers and record the effect on passive stiffness. It became clear that the stiffness contribution from each element is context‐dependent and varies depending on strain level and the force component considered (elastic or viscous); elements do not act in isolation but in a tensegral relationship. Titin is a substantial contributor under all conditions and dominates the elastic forces at both low and high strains. The contribution to viscous forces is more equally shared between microtubules, titin, and actin. However, the extracellular matrix substantially contributes to both force components at higher strain levels. Desmin filaments may bear low stiffness. These insights enhance our understanding of how different filament networks contribute to passive stiffness in the heart and offer new perspectives for targeting this stiffness in heart failure treatment.
CEOs' digital technology backgrounds and enterprise digital transformation: The mediating effect of R&D investment and corporate social responsibility
Authors: Zhu Changchun , Li Na , Ma Jing , Qi Xiaobin
Published: December 2023

Enterprise digital transformation (EDT) is becoming an essential strategy for business growth owing to the rapid iterative invention of digital technologies. Based on imprinting theory, we examined the effects of chief executive officers' (CEOs') digital technology backgrounds (DTBs) on EDT using data on Chinese listed companies from 2010 to 2020. We found that (1) CEOs with digital technology‐related learning or career experience can drive EDT to a higher degree. (2) Research and development (R&D) investment and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are significant variables that influence the digital transformation of CEOs' digital technology. Both partially mediate CEOs' DTBs, driving digital transformation by increasing R&D investment and enhancing CSR. (3) CEOs' DTBs significantly promote digital transformation in state‐owned, high‐tech, and digital economy enterprises. By promoting digital transformation, CEOs' DTBs substantially increased their sustainable development.
Theoretical and Methodological Framework for Studying Video Games and Orientalism
Authors: Šisler Vít
Published: December 2023

This article proposes a theoretical and methodological framework for studying orientalism and representation in video games, grounded in information science, communication studies, game studies, and cultural studies. Utilizing the approaches of critical transculturalism, game production studies, and a newly refined concept of gamevironments, the proposed framework understands video games as hybrid cultural artifacts existing within interconnected technical, socio‐cultural, political, economic, and religious spheres. It examines games on three levels: as computational systems encompassing procedural, narrative, and audiovisual layers; as designed by authors encoding worldviews and ideas; and as dynamically interpreted by players. Encompassing the contexts influencing design and reception, this framework enables nuanced analysis of how games perpetuate or challenge orientalist discourses. Methodologically, it integrates techniques from across disciplines to study games' components, creators, audiences, and wider environments. Using Arab and Iranian gaming cultures as an example, this article highlights applying the framework to local productions negotiating global media flows and political constraints. Overall, it aims to offer an expansive and multifaceted toolkit for researching orientalism, representation, and identity construction in video games.
Reliable cooperative communication in cognitive vehicular networks for intelligent transportation systems
Authors: Dubey Dheeraj , Tiwari Jahnvi , Yadav Paritosh Kumar , Pandey Sudhakar
Published: December 2023

Rapid intelligent transportation systems (ITS) innovations need a reliable MAC protocol to enable massive nonsafety message delivery and high‐priority safety broadcasts. The significant rise in spectrum need is regulated by collaboration in cognitive vehicular networks (CVNs). For QoS improvement, a reliable cooperative MAC for CVNs (CCVN‐MAC) is presented in this study. CCVN allows vehicles to collaborate and share channel status information, allowing for proactive channel switching in case of a legacy user (LU) appearance. To enable transmission mode selection, additional control signals are included. Using the suggested cooperative makeup technique, the helper nodes resend failed transmission. A Markov chain represents the protocol, and NS‐2 is used to evaluate it for several performance characteristics. Compared with conventional MAC techniques, the proposed protocol depicts improved performance, including depreciation of 70% in average latency and an increment of 42.4% in throughput.
Quantitative analysis of tetrahydrocannabinol isomers and other toxicologically relevant drugs in blood
Authors: Mantinieks Dylan , Di Rago Matthew , Drummer Olaf H. , Glowacki Linda , Schumann Jennifer , Gerostamoulos Dimitri
Published: December 2023

A multi‐analyte liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method is described, involving the separation of delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (delta‐9‐THC) and delta‐8‐THC in addition to other commonly encountered drugs and metabolites. Briefly, sample preparation involved an alkaline liquid–liquid extraction (methyl tert‐butyl ether) of blood (100 μl). The solvent layer was transferred, evaporated to dryness, reconstituted, and samples then separated on an Agilent Poroshell 120 EC‐C18 100 Å (50 mm × 3.0 mm, 2.7 μm) analytical column using a multi‐step gradient elution of 50 mM ammonium formate in water (pH 3.5) and 0.1% formic acid in methanol over 14 min. A SCIEX Triple Quad 6500+ system operating in scheduled multiple reaction monitoring and positive electrospray ionization was used for detection. There were no interferences, and matrix effects were generally acceptable (±20% of neat response). Linearity was achieved within the calibration range, including methylamphetamine (MA) (10–1000 ng/ml), 3,4‐methylenedioxy‐N‐methylamphetamine (MDMA) (10–1,000 ng/ml), cocaine (10–1000 ng/ml), and two THC isomers (1–100 ng/ml). Accuracies of MA, MDMA, cocaine, and two THC isomers were 3.6 to 8.9%, −1.2 to 4%, −5.3 to 5.8%, and −11 to 14%, respectively; while precision estimates of the same were 1.6 to 5.4%, 1.7 to 5.3%, 1.2 to 4.5%, and 2 to 10%, respectively. Autosampler stability and dilution integrity were within acceptable limits, and no carryover was detected at the limit of detection. This validated LC‐MS/MS method made the routine identification of both delta‐9‐THC and delta‐8‐THC in blood possible.
Effects of inpatient treatment on compulsive exercise in adults with longstanding eating disorders: Secondary analysis from a randomized controlled trial with 12‐month follow‐up
Authors: Vrabel KariAnne R. , Bratland‐Sanda Solfrid
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to examine changes in compulsive exercise among adults with eating disorders (ED) admitted for inpatient treatment in a randomized controlled trial comparing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and compassion‐focused therapy (CFT) and whether such changes were influenced by treatment condition, childhood trauma, or level of compulsive exercise.

Method

A total of 130 adults admitted to inpatient treatment for EDs mean (SD) age 30.9 (9.7) years, mean illness duration 14.2 (8.9) years, were randomized to receive CBT or CFT and analyzed using multilevel modeling. Assessments included Eating Disorders Examination – Interview, Compulsive Exercise Test and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire.

Results

Mean total CET score at baseline was 14.7 (4.0) with no difference between the treatment groups. A total of 63 (48.5%) had CET score ≥ 15, indicating clinical levels. There was an overall time effect on reduction in CET total and all CET subscale scores except Lack of enjoyment, and CFT provided greater reduction compared to CBT on the CET subscale Mood improvements. Patients with clinical CET score levels showed greater reduction on CET total and the subscales Avoidance, Weight, and Rigidity across time compared to persons with non‐clinical CET score. Childhood trauma did not predict changes in CET total or subscale scores.

Discussion

Both CBT and CFT improve overall compulsive exercise. The greater effect of CFT than CBT on exercise as a maladaptive mood regulator calls for further research on how affective oriented psychotherapies can not only reduce compulsive exercise but also promote functional exercise among persons with EDs.

Public Significance Statement

Understanding and addressing compulsive exercise in adults with eating disorders is crucial. This study comparing cognitive‐behavioral therapy and compassion‐focused therapy shows both improve compulsive exercise. Importantly, compassion‐focused therapy has a greater impact as an emotion‐focused regulator. This emphasizes the need for further exploration into how emotion‐focused therapies can reduce compulsive exercise and promote healthier, functional physical activity for individuals with eating disorders.
Exploring biomarkers in trigeminal neuralgia patients operated with microvascular decompression: A comparison with multiple sclerosis patients and non‐neurological controls
Authors: Lafta Muataz S. , Sokolov Aleksandr V. , Landtblom Anne‐Marie , Ericson Hans , Schiöth Helgi B. , Abu Hamdeh Sami
Published: December 2023

Background

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a severe facial pain condition often associated with a neurovascular conflict. However, neuroinflammation has also been implicated in TN, as it frequently co‐occurs with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

We analysed protein expression levels of TN patients compared to MS patients and controls. Proximity Extension Assay technology was used to analyse the levels of 92 proteins with the Multiplex Neuro‐Exploratory panel provided by SciLifeLab, Uppsala, Sweden. Serum and CSF samples were collected from TN patients before (n = 33 and n = 27, respectively) and after (n = 28 and n = 8, respectively) microvascular decompression surgery. Additionally, we included samples from MS patients (n = 20) and controls (n = 20) for comparison.

Results

In both serum and CSF, several proteins were found increased in TN patients compared to either MS patients, controls, or both, including EIF4B, PTPN1, EREG, TBCB, PMVK, FKBP5, CD63, CRADD, BST2, CD302, CRIP2, CCL27, PPP3R1, WWP2, KLB, PLA2G10, TDGF1, SMOC1, RBKS, LTBP3, CLSTN1, NXPH1, SFRP1, HMOX2, and GGT5. The overall expression of the 92 proteins in postoperative TN samples seems to shift towards the levels of MS patients and controls in both serum and CSF, as compared to preoperative samples. Interestingly, there was no difference in protein levels between MS patients and controls.

Conclusions

We conclude that TN patients showed increased serum and CSF levels of specific proteins and that successful surgery normalizes these protein levels, highlighting its potential as an effective treatment. However, the similarity between MS and controls challenges the idea of shared pathophysiology with TN, suggesting distinct underlying mechanisms in these conditions.

Significance

This study advances our understanding of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and its association with multiple sclerosis (MS). By analysing 92 protein biomarkers, we identified distinctive molecular profiles in TN patients, shedding light on potential pathophysiological mechanisms. The observation that successful surgery normalizes many protein levels suggests a promising avenue for TN treatment. Furthermore, the contrasting protein patterns between TN and MS challenge prevailing assumptions of similarity between the two conditions and point to distinct pathophysiological mechanisms.
Do reconciliation events serve as a conciliatory signal?
Authors: Ohtsubo Yohsuke , Himichi Toshiyuki , Inamasu Kazunori , Kohama Shoko , Mifune Nobuhiro , Tago Atsushi
Published: December 2023

A set of four vignette studies (total N = 1600) examined whether voluntariness, novelty, vulnerability and irrevocability of reconciliation events serve as conciliatory signals that communicate serious intentions for improved relations. Studies 1 and 2 manipulated the presence of the four factors in the reconciliation event initiated by the political leader of a country in a relatively disadvantageous (Study 1) or advantageous (Study 2) position. Studies 1 and 2 revealed that the presence of substantial concession (‘public announcement of abandonment of disputed region’ in Study 1 and ‘demolition of a military facility in the disputed region’ in Study 2) enhanced signal effectiveness (participants perceived these concessions reflecting the political leader's serious conciliatory intention). Follow‐up studies (Studies 3A and 3B), which manipulated the level of concession (high vs. intermediate vs. low), confirmed the main result: High and intermediate levels of concession enhanced signal effectiveness compared to low concession.
Exploring Acceptor Modification in Helicene‐Phenylamine‐Based Small Molecules for Organic and Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Fatima Rida , Iqbal Javed , Bibi Shamsa , Yaseen Muhammad
Published: December 2023

The current quantum mechanical study is focused on the fabrication of eight helicene‐phenylamine‐based molecules (MPAM1–MPAM8) to investigate their photovoltaic (PV) and optoelectronic properties for photovoltaic cells (PVCs). The outcomes revealed that fabricated chromophores showed deeper highest occupied molecular orbital levels, higher solubility, low exciton binding energy, greater hole mobility with low band gap energy than the model compound (MPAR). Moreover, the reorganization energy values interpret that newly fabricated compounds possess high charge mobility compared to the representative molecule (MPAR) which encourages their usage as HTM in PSCs. All the freshly designed molecules revealed greater estimated open circuit voltage values contrasted to the reference molecule (MPAR) which ensures their prominent working efficacy. The results signify the competence of this strategic approach, paving a new path for the fabrication of hole transport material (HTM) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and donor molecules for organic solar cells (OSCs).
Structure and properties of the acellular porcine cornea irradiated with 60Co‐γ and electron beam and its histocompatibility
Authors: Li Qing , Sun Yajun , Zhao Haibin , Zhang Fan , Guo Yu , Chen Xin , Zhao Guoqun
Published: December 2023

Acellular porcine cornea (APC) has been used in corneal transplantation and treatment of the corneal diseases. Sterilization is a key step before the application of graft, and irradiation is one of the most commonly used methods. In this paper, APC was prepared by the physical freeze‐thawing combined with biological enzymes, and the effects of the electron beam (E‐beam) and cobalt 60 (60Co‐γ) at the dose of 15 kGy on the physicochemical properties, structure, immunogenicity, and biocompatibility of the APC were investigated. After decellularization, the residual DNA was 20.86 ± 1.02 ng/mg, and the α‐Gal clearance rate was more than 99%. Irradiation, especially the 60Co‐γ, reduced the cornea's transmittance, elastic modulus, enzymatic hydrolysis rate, swelling ratio, and cross‐linking degree. Meanwhile, the diameter and spacing of the collagen fibers increased. In the rat subcutaneous implantation, many inflammatory cells appeared in the unirradiated APC, while the irradiated had good histocompatibility, but the degradation was faster. The lamellar keratoplasty in rabbits indicated that compared to the E‐beam, the 60Co‐γ damaged the chemical bond of collagen to a larger extent, reduced the content of GAGs, and prolonged the complete epithelization of the grafts. The corneal edema was more serious within 1 month after the surgery. After 2 months, the thickness of the APC with the two irradiation methods tended to be stable, but that in the 60Co‐γ group became thinner. The pathological results showed that the collagen structure was looser and the pores were larger, indicating the 60Co‐γ had a more extensive effect on the APC than the E‐beam at 15 kGy.
The effect of fishing‐capture stress on the oxygen uptake rate and swimming activity of the holocephalan Callorhinchus milii
Authors: Finotto Licia , Walker Terence I. , Reina Richard D.
Published: December 2023

Overfishing, capture mortality, and consequences following the release of surviving animals represent severe threats to chondrichthyans. Although holocephalans are common bycaught and discarded species, other than postrelease mortality, little is known of fishing capture stress impacts. The stress response elicited after capture, essential to increase survival chances, is energetically demanding and affects the amount of energy available for other biological activities, with potential long‐term impairments. We measured the effect of 30‐min simulated gillnet capture on oxygen uptake rate (ṀO2), a proxy for metabolic rate and energy use, on recovery pattern, and on swimming activity of elephant fish (Callorhinchus milii). Immediately after simulated capture, Active and Inactive ṀO2, measured during swimming and resting periods, respectively, were 27.5% and 43.1% lower than precapture values. This metabolic decline is likely an adaptation for reducing the energy allocated to non‐essential activities, thus preserving it to sustain the stress response and processes essential for immediate survival. Supporting this, after gillnet capture, animals decreased their swimming time by 26.6%, probably due to a reduction in the energy allocated to movement. After 7 days, swimming activity and both Inactive ṀO2 and Active ṀO2 returned to precapture values. Although metabolic decline may enhance survival chances, the associated decreased swimming activity might increase predation risk and slow the physiological recovery after a fishing event. Moreover, some of the activities involved in Inactive ṀO2 are fundamental for life maintenance and therefore its depression after a capture event might have long‐term repercussions for life sustenance and health.
Cookability of 24 pea accessions—determining factors and potential predictors of cooking quality
Authors: Dueholm Bjørn , Fonskov Johanna , Grimberg Åsa , Carlsson Sandra , Hefni Mohammed , Henriksson Tina , Hammenhag Cecilia
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Cooking time and cooking evenness are two critical quantities when determining the cooking quality (termed cookability) of pulses. Deciphering which factors contribute to pulse cookability is important for breeding new cultivars, and the identification of potential cookability predictors can facilitate breeding efforts. Seeds from 24 morphologically diverse pea accessions were tested to identify contributing factors and potential predictors of the observed cookability using a Mattson cooker. Size‑ and weight‐based measures were recorded, and seed‐coat hardness was obtained with a penetrometer. Content of protein, starch (amylose and amylopectin), and phytate was also determined.

RESULTS

Distinct differences were found between wrinkled and non‐wrinkled seeds in terms of water‐absorption capacity, seed‐coat hardness, and plunger‐perforation speed. Potential predictive indicators of cooking time and cooking evenness were seed‐coat hardness (r = 0.49 and r = 0.38), relative area gained (r = −0.59 and r = −0.8), and percentage of swelled seeds after soaking (r = −0.49 and r = −0.58), but only for non‐wrinkled seeds. Surprisingly, the coefficients of variation for the profile area of both dry and swelled seeds appeared to be potential cookability predictors of all pea types (correlation coefficients around r = 0.5 and supported by principal component analysis). However, no strong correlation was observed between cookability and protein, starch, or phytate levels.

CONCLUSION

Using three types of instruments together with chemical components enabled the identification of novel cookability predictors for both cooking time and cooking evenness in pea. This study unveils the diverse quantitative aspects influencing cookability in pea. Considering both cooking time and cooking evenness, as well as seed‐coat hardness, underscores the multifaceted nature of pulse cookability and offers important insights for future breeding strategies to enhance pea cultivars. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.