bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A breakdown in microglial metabolic reprogramming causes internalization dysfunction of α-synuclein in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Lu Jia , Wang Chenfei , Cheng Xin , Wang Ruizhi , Yan Xuehan , He Pengju , Chen Hongzhuan , Yu Zhihua
Published: May 2022

Background

The α-synuclein released by neurons activates microglia, which then engulfs α-synuclein for degradation via autophagy. Reactive microglia are a major pathological feature of Parkinson’s disease (PD), although the exact role of microglia in the pathogenesis of PD remains unclear. Transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) channels are nonselective cation channel protein that have been proposed as neuroprotective targets in neurodegenerative diseases.

Methods

Using metabolic profiling, microglia energy metabolism was measured including oxidative phosphorylation and aerobic glycolysis. The mRFP-GFP-tagged LC3 reporter was introduced to characterize the role of TRPV1 in microglial autophagy. α-synuclein preformed fibril (PFF) TRPV1flox/flox; Cx3cr1Cre mouse model of sporadic PD were employed to study the capacity of TRPV1 activation to attenuate neurodegeneration process.

Results

We found that acute exposure to PFF caused microglial activation as a result of metabolic reprogramming from oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis via the AKT–mTOR–HIF-1α pathway. Activated microglia eventually reached a state of chronic PFF-tolerance, ﻿accompanied by broad defects in energy metabolism. We showed that metabolic boosting by treatment with the TRPV1 agonist capsaicin rescued metabolic impairments in PFF-tolerant microglia and also defects in mitophagy caused by disruption of the AKT–mTOR–HIF-1α pathway. Capsaicin attenuated phosphorylation of α-synuclein in primary neurons by boosting phagocytosis in PFF-tolerant microglia in vitro. Finally, we found that behavioral deficits and loss of dopaminergic neurons were accelerated in the PFF TRPV1flox/flox; Cx3cr1Cre mouse model of sporadic PD. We identified defects in energy metabolism, mitophagy and phagocytosis of PFF in microglia from the substantia nigra pars compacta of TRPV1flox/flox; Cx3cr1Cre mice.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that modulating microglial metabolism might be a new therapeutic strategy for PD.
Autistic adults have poorer quality healthcare and worse health based on self-report data
Authors: Weir Elizabeth , Allison Carrie , Baron-Cohen Simon
Published: May 2022

Background

Recent research suggests that autistic individuals have shorter lifespans and experience worse health (greater health burden) than non-autistic individuals. Small, qualitative studies suggest that autistic adults also experience poor self-reported healthcare quality.

Methods

An anonymized, cross-sectional, self-report questionnaire was administered to n = 4158 individuals. The study assessed prevalence of chronic health conditions, healthcare quality, differences in overall health inequality score, and effects of the coronavirus pandemic on healthcare quality. We used Fisher’s exact tests, binomial logistic regression, and predictive machine learning tools, as appropriate.

Results

The final sample included n = 2649 participants (n = 1285 autistic) aged 16–96 years. Autistic adults reported lower quality healthcare than non-autistic adults across 50/51 items, including poorer access to healthcare and poorer communication, alongside increased anxiety, sensory sensitivity, system-level problems, shutdowns, and meltdowns. Differences between groups were stark: aggregated health inequality scores predicted autism diagnosis, even after stratifying by sex. Autistic adults were also more likely to have chronic health conditions than non-autistic adults. There were no significant differences in healthcare quality for autistic adults before and during the pandemic, although they received relatively poorer quality healthcare than non-autistic adults across both periods.

Limitations

The study’s sampling methods are not likely to capture the perspectives of all autistic individuals, especially those with intellectual disability. Both the autistic and control samples are biased towards UK residents, white individuals, those assigned female at birth, and those who completed an undergraduate degree or higher education. As such, these results may limit their generalizability to other groups. Finally, these results relate to self-reported differences in healthcare quality between autistic and non-autistic adults. The observed group differences may in part reflect differences in perception and communication rather than differences in actual healthcare quality.

Conclusions

Autistic adults are more likely to have chronic health conditions alongside self-reported lower quality healthcare than others. Health inequalities between these groups are widespread and dramatic; unfortunately, they existed before and have persisted after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.
Radiologic and clinical changes after denosumab treatment for giant cell tumors of the mobile spine: a quantitative study
Authors: Yuan Bei , Han Songbo , Yang Shaomin , Zhang Lihua , Jiang Liang , Wei Feng , Yuan Huishu , Liu Xiaoguang , Liu Zhongjun
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To analyze the radiologic and clinical changes after denosumab treatment in patients with giant cell tumors (GCTs) in the mobile spine.

Methods

Clinical data and images by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging at a single center were retrospectively reviewed before and after denosumab treatment.

Results

Pre- and post-treatment data from 24 patients were evaluated. On imaging, marginal ossification and/or bone formation was observed in 22 patients (91.7%). The median maximum diameter of the GCT reduced from 52.5 to 48.2 mm (p < 0.001), and the mean proportion of tumor to spinal canal area decreased from 36.8 to 18.5% (p < 0.001). Out of six patients with compression, three patients (50%) showed no compression after treatment. The signal intensity (SI) ratio between the solid part of the tumor and the normal spinal cord on T2-weighted MR images was 0.77 ± 0.22 and decreased to 0.58 ± 0.22 (p = 0.001). On clinical symptoms, the mean visual analog scale scores were reduced from 5.3 to 2.0 (p < 0.001) and the Karnofsky Performance Scale scores increased from a median of 65 to 80 (p < 0.001). Post-treatment, performance scores improved in eight patients (33.3%) (p = 0.003), and the neurological function of four patients improved according to Frankel grade (p = 0.046).

Conclusions

Bone formation, tumor reduction, regression of epidural lesion and the decrease in SI ratio on T2-weighted image should be considered as the effectiveness of denosumab in the treatment of spinal GCT. In clinical application, denosumab can relieve pain, improve neurological function, and improve the quality of life of spinal GCT patients.
Standard toxicity study of clinical-grade allogeneic human bone marrow-derived clonal mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Tayebi Behnoosh , Babaahmadi Mahnaz , Pakzad Mohammad , Hajinasrollah Mostafa , Mostafaei Farhad , Jahangiri Shahrbanoo , Kamali Amir , Baharvand Hossein , Baghaban Eslaminejad Mohamadreza , Hassani Seyedeh-Nafiseh , Hajizadeh-Saffar Ensiyeh
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have opened a new window to treat inflammatory and non-inflammatory diseases. Nonetheless, their clinical applications require rigorous control and monitoring procedures to ensure full compliance with the principles of good manufacturing practice (GMP). Various evaluations should be passed in conjunction with the development of these newly emerging therapeutic products from bench-to-bedside. These evaluations include in vitro characterization, preclinical studies, and clinical trials to ensure product safety and efficacy. Therefore, a robust and well-designed preclinical study is critical to confirm product safety. This study aims to determine the probable toxicity effects of local and systemic injections of cryopreserved human bone marrow-derived clonal MSCs (BM-cMSCs) during subacute and subchronic periods of time.

Methods

BM-cMSCs were characterized according to the International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy (ISCT) criteria for MSCs. Both safety and toxicity of the BM-cMSCs population produced under GMP-compatible conditions were assessed in both sexes of Sprague Dawley (SD) rats via systemic intravenous (IV) administration and local injection in intervertebral disc (IVD). Behavioral changes, clinical signs of toxicity, and changes in body weight, water and food consumption were the important variables for product toxicity testing over 14 consecutive days during the subacute period and 90 consecutive days during the subchronic period. At the end of the assessment periods, the rats were killed for histopathology analysis of the target tissues. The BM-cMSCs potential for tumorigenicity was checked in nude mice.

Results

Single IV and IVD injections of BM-cMSCs did not cause significant signs of clinical toxicity, or changes in laboratory and histopathology data during the subacute (14 day) and subchronic (90 day) periods. Ex vivo-expanded and cryopreserved BM-cMSCs did not induce tumor formation in nude mice.

Conclusion

The results suggest that local and systemic administrations of xenogeneic BM-cMSCs in both sexes of SD rats do not cause toxicity during the subacute and subchronic periods of time. Also, BM-cMSCs were non-tumorigenic in nude mice.
An accelerated common fixed point algorithm for a countable family of G-nonexpansive mappings with applications to image recovery
Authors: Wattanataweekul Rattanakorn , Janngam Kobkoon
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we define a new concept of left and right coordinate affine of a directed graph and then employ it to introduce a new accelerated common fixed point algorithm for a countable family ofG-nonexpansive mappings in a real Hilbert space with a graph. We prove, under certain conditions, weak convergence theorems for the proposed algorithm. As applications, we also apply our results to solve convex minimization and image restoration problems. Moreover, we show that our algorithm provides better convergence behavior than other methods in the literature.
Towards a global One Health index: a potential assessment tool for One Health performance
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Xi , Liu Jing-Shu , Han Le-Fei , Xia Shang , Li Shi-Zhu , Li Odel Y. , Kassegne Kokouvi , Li Min , Yin Kun , Hu Qin-Qin , Xiu Le-Shan , Zhu Yong-Zhang , Huang Liang-Yu , Wang Xiang-Cheng , Zhang Yi , Zhao Han-Qing , Yin Jing-Xian , Jiang Tian-Ge , Li Qin , Fei Si-Wei , Gu Si-Yu , Chen Fu-Min , Zhou Nan , Cheng Zi-Le , Xie Yi , Li Hui-Min , Chen Jin , Guo Zhao-Yu , Feng Jia-Xin , Ai Lin , Xue Jing-Bo , Ye Qian , Grant Liz , Song Jun-Xia , Simm Geoff , Utzinger Jürg , Guo Xiao-Kui , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: May 2022

Background

A One Health approach has been increasingly mainstreamed by the international community, as it provides for holistic thinking in recognizing the close links and inter-dependence of the health of humans, animals and the environment. However, the dearth of real-world evidence has hampered application of a One Health approach in shaping policies and practice. This study proposes the development of a potential evaluation tool for One Health performance, in order to contribute to the scientific measurement of One Health approach and the identification of gaps where One Health capacity building is most urgently needed.

Methods

We describe five steps towards a global One Health index (GOHI), including (i) framework formulation; (ii) indicator selection; (iii) database building; (iv) weight determination; and (v) GOHI scores calculation. A cell-like framework for GOHI is proposed, which comprises an external drivers index (EDI), an intrinsic drivers index (IDI) and a core drivers index (CDI). We construct the indicator scheme for GOHI based on this framework after multiple rounds of panel discussions with our expert advisory committee. A fuzzy analytical hierarchy process is adopted to determine the weights for each of the indicators.

Results

The weighted indicator scheme of GOHI comprises three first-level indicators, 13 second-level indicators, and 57 third-level indicators. According to the pilot analysis based on the data from more than 200 countries/territories the GOHI scores overall are far from ideal (the highest score of 65.0 out of a maximum score of 100), and we found considerable variations among different countries/territories (31.8–65.0). The results from the pilot analysis are consistent with the results from a literature review, which suggests that a GOHI as a potential tool for the assessment of One Health performance might be feasible.

Conclusions

GOHI—subject to rigorous validation—would represent the world’s first evaluation tool that constructs the conceptual framework from a holistic perspective of One Health. Future application of GOHI might promote a common understanding of a strong One Health approach and provide reference for promoting effective measures to strengthen One Health capacity building. With further adaptations under various scenarios, GOHI, along with its technical protocols and databases, will be updated regularly to address current technical limitations, and capture new knowledge.

Graphical Abstract
Perceived Vulnerability to Disease Questionnaire: psychometric validation with a Portuguese sample
Authors: Ferreira Jacqueline , Magalhães Ana C. , Bem-Haja Pedro , Alho Laura , Silva Carlos F. , Soares Sandra C.
Published: May 2022

Background

Individual differences in one’s perceived vulnerability to infectious diseases are implicated in psychological distress, social and behavioral disease avoidance phenomena. The Perceived Vulnerability to Disease Questionnaire (PVD) is the most extensively used measure when it comes to assessing subjective vulnerability to infectious diseases. However, this measure is not yet accessible to the Portuguese population. The present study aimed to adapt and validate the PVD with 136 Portuguese participants.

Methods

Factorial, convergent and discriminant validity (of both the scale and between each factor), and reliability analysis were assessed.

Results

A modified bifactorial model, comprised of Perceived Infectability and Germ Aversion factors, was obtained, with acceptable goodness-of-fit indices, adequate convergent and discriminant validity, and good internal consistencies.

Conclusions

Overall, the 10-items European-Portuguese PVD appears to be a reliable and valid measure of one’s perceived vulnerability to disease, with potential relevance for application in both research and clinical practice pertaining to disease-avoidance processes.
Fluorescence-aided removal of orthodontic composites: an in vivo comparative study
Authors: Albertini Paolo , Tauro Rosita , Barbara Lorenza , Albertini Enrico , Lombardo Luca
Published: May 2022

Background

To compare the fluorescent properties of 6 different orthodontic adhesives and provide useful information for clinicians in the adhesion choice, in order to remove it easily at the end of orthodontic treatment by using the Fluorescence-aided Identification Technique (FIT).

Methods

Six orthodontic adhesives were included: Ortho Connect, Gradia LoFlo A3.5, Greengloo, Transbond XT, KommonBase Pink, and KommonBase Clear. The same thermoformed template with 1 mm shell thickness on the six anterior teeth was used for adhesive positioning; furthermore, an ultraviolet light-emitting diode flashlight was used for the FIT. The brightness of adhesive area and tooth area (L* color coordinate) were measured on the photographs by using the “color picker” tool of Photoshop software.

Results

GC Ortho Connect, Gradia Direct LoFlo and KommonBase Clear showed the highest differences of brightness (15.5, 16.3 and 13.5, respectively), while Greengloo, Transbond XT and KommonBase Pink registered similar values between resin area and tooth area with FIT (− 0.5, − 0.8 and − 1.0, respectively). The high viscosity adhesive resins, as Greengloo and Transbond XT, showed a similar performance in terms of fluorescence to the KommonBase Pink, the lowest viscous resin adhesive considered.

Conclusions

The most used orthodontic adhesives showed different fluorescence properties. Some resins were brighter with the FIT, facilitating identification and subsequent removal. Other orthodontic adhesives presented no difference between adhesive and tooth. The viscosity of orthodontic adhesives did not influence the brightness emitted with FIT.
Down-regulation of Risa improves podocyte injury by enhancing autophagy in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Su Pei-Pei , Liu Dong-Wei , Zhou Si-Jie , Chen Hang , Wu Xian-Ming , Liu Zhang-Suo
Published: May 2022

Background

LncRNA AK044604 (regulator of insulin sensitivity and autophagy, Risa) and autophagy-related factors Sirt1 and GSK3β play important roles in diabetic nephropathy (DN). In this study, we sought to explore the effect of Risa on Sirt1/GSK3β-induced podocyte injury.

Methods

Diabetic db/db mice received Risa-inhibition adeno-associated virus (AAV) via tail vein injection, and intraperitoneal injection of lithium chloride (LiCl). Blood, urine, and kidney tissue samples were collected and analyzed at different time points. Immortalized mouse podocyte cells (MPCs) were cultured and treated with Risa-inhibition lentivirus (LV), EX-527, and LiCl. MPCs were collected under different stimulations as noted. The effects of Risa on podocyte autophagy were examined by qRT-PCR, Western blotting analysis, transmission electron microscopy, Periodic Acid-Schiff staining, and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

Risa and activated GSK3β were overexpressed, but Sirt1 was downregulated in DN mice and high glucose-treated MPCs (P < 0.001, db/m vs. db/db, NG or HM vs. HG), which was correlated with poor prognosis. Risa overexpression attenuated Sirt1-mediated downstream autophagy levels and aggravated podocyte injury by inhibiting the expression of Sirt1 (P < 0.001, db/m vs. db/db, NG or HM vs. HG). In contrast, Risa suppression enhanced Sirt1-induced autophagy and attenuated podocyte injury, which could be abrogated by EX-527 (P < 0.001, db/db + Risa-AAV vs. db/db, HG + Risa-LV vs. HG). Furthermore, LiCl treatment could restore GSK3β-mediated autophagy of podocytes (P < 0.001, db/db + LiCl vs. db/db, HG + LiCl vs. HG), suggesting that Risa overexpression aggravated podocyte injury by decreasing autophagy.

Conclusion

Risa could inhibit autophagy by regulating the Sirt1/GSK3β axis, thereby aggravating podocyte injury in DN. Risa may serve as a therapeutic target for the treatment of DN.
Sustainability of the rice-crayfish co-culture aquaculture model: microbiome profiles based on multi-kingdom analyses
Authors: Zhu Xue , Ji Lei , Cheng Mingyue , Wei Huimin , Wang Zhi , Ning Kang
Published: May 2022

While the rice-crayfish culture (RCFP) model, an important aquaculture model in Asia, is generally considered a sustainable model, its sustainability in terms of microbial community profiles has not been evaluated. In this study, multi-kingdom analyses of microbiome profiles (i.e., bacteria, archaea, viruses, and eukaryotes) were performed using environmental (i.e., water and sediment) and animal gut (i.e., crayfish and crab gut) microbial samples from the RCFP and other aquaculture models, including the crab-crayfish co-culture, crayfish culture, and crab culture models, to evaluate the sustainability of the RCFP systematically. Results showed that RCFP samples are enriched with a distinct set of microbes, including Shewanella, Ferroplasma, Leishmania, and Siphoviridae, when compared with other aquaculture models. Additionally, most microbes in the RCFP samples, especially microbes from different kingdoms, were densely and positively connected, which indicates their robustness against environmental stress. Whereas microbes in different aquaculture models demonstrated moderate levels of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) across kingdoms, the RCFP showed relatively lower frequencies of HGT events, especially those involving antibiotic resistance genes. Finally, environmental factors, including pH, oxidation–reduction potential, temperature, and total nitrogen, contributed profoundly to shaping the microbial communities in these aquaculture models. Interestingly, compared with other models, the microbial communities of the RCFP model were less influenced by these environmental factors, which suggests that microbes in the latter have stronger ability to resist environmental stress. The findings collectively reflect the unique multi-kingdom microbial patterns of the RCFP model and suggest that this model is a sustainable model from the perspective of microbiome profiles.
ePortfolio to promote networked learning: an experience in the Latin American context
Authors: Roco Miguel , Barberà Elena
Published: May 2022

This research shows and analyses a pedagogical experience with ePortfolio into the bridge context between higher education and profession in Latin America, particularly Architectural Design Studio (ADS). The objective was to reveal the impacts of ePortfolio use as a tool of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) on the training process to enhance Networked Learning Principles (NLP) into the particular architectural pedagogy. The research had a descriptive methodology with a qualitative approach through a perception survey applied to a sample of students from eight cohorts of the same training cycle (second year) in a ADS across years 2015–2018. The study kept its design and implementation fidelity stable during this time, allowing data from eight instances. The results allow observing relationships between the training process dimensions and the NLP, with indicators to improve this relationship, throughout to observe transformations linked to the ePortfolio conception, implementation and projection. The conclusions are related to the ePortfolio capacity to close strategic gaps in the training learning process to design, organise and provide feedback to improve the NLP, creating training strategies that promote students’ autonomous learning, connections, identities, needs, aspirations and professional objectives.
Pharmacist knowledge of gout management: impact of an educational intervention
Authors: Dorris Emma R. , Kieran Mariosa , Dalbeth Nicola , McCarthy Geraldine
Published: May 2022

Background

Pharmacists play a key role in community gout education. We investigated pharmacist knowledge of gout management and developed an educational intervention which was assessed in a cohort of Irish pharmacists.

Methods

A ten-question questionnaire about gout management was developed to assess pharmacists’ knowledge. A 14 min 26 s video educational intervention was co-designed by a rheumatologist, a pharmacist, and designer of pharmacy education resources. The effectiveness of this pharmacy-specific intervention was assessed using the same questionnaire in 53 pharmacists (25 in the intervention group; 28 in the control group). Contingency tables were used to analyse differences between groups.

Results

There were 173 pharmacist respondents to the initial survey; 35.3% answered that first-line therapy for gout involves a combination of a xanthine oxidase inhibitor (e.g., allopurinol) combined with a prophylactic agent (e.g., colchicine), and 28.9% of respondents answered that colchicine prophylaxis should be used when initiating urate-lowering therapy. Following the educational intervention, pharmacist’s knowledge about gout management increased across many domains, including serum urate targets when using urate-lowering therapy (p = 0.006), use of colchicine prophylaxis (p = 0.011), and duration of colchicine use (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Gout management recommendations can be impeded if translation into pharmacy practice is neglected. Pharmacists are a valuable information resource for patients. Co-designing a brief education intervention with pharmacists is an effective, low-cost way to increase pharmacist knowledge on the management of gout.
Head and neck necrotizing fasciitis: the importance of negative pressure wound therapy with literature review
Authors: Kasim Aljanabi Kasim S. , almaqbali Talib , Mustafa Arfath
Published: May 2022

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis is an aggressive infection of the soft tissues and subcutaneous fascia. The involvement of the head and neck region is very rare but carries significant mortality. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) became very popular in treating complicated wounds.

Case presentation

We present a case of necrotizing fasciitis in cervical region. After surgical debridement, a NPWT device was applied. NPWT provides advantages compared to conventional debridement and drainage.

Conclusion

This method is recommended as an adjuvant tool in treating necrotizing fasciitis in head and neck region because it helps to eradicate infection, provides comfort to the patient and facilitates wound healing.
Psychiatric comorbidity in a sample of Egyptian women with vaginismus
Authors: Elrassas Hanan , Saad Ahmed , Fekry Mohamed , Elkholy Hussein , Mansour Omar , Azzam Lobna
Published: May 2022

Background

Vaginismus is a female sexual dysfunction affecting the quality of women and the couple’s relationship. It is considered the main feminine cause of unconsummated marriage in Egypt. The study aims in assessment of comorbid psychiatric disorders, personality disorders, and levels of alexithymia among a sample of women with vaginismus. It is a case-control study where 30 women diagnosed with vaginismus following up in the psychosexual clinic in Ain Shams University Hospitals were enrolled in the study in comparison to 30 controls. Assessment was done based on the socio-demographic data, Toronto Alexithymia scale (TAS-20), Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR Axis I Disorders (SCID-I), and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II Disorders (SCID-II).

Results

It was found that women having vaginismus had significant below university level of education (P = 0.026) together with their partners (P = 0.006). It was also found that women having vaginismus are showing high levels of alexithymia (p < 0.001), more than one anxiety and/or depressive disorder (P = 0.032) in comparison to the control group. Also, borderline personality disorder/traits and avoidant personality traits were significantly more frequent among cases (P = 0.026, P = 0.001, and P = 0.045 respectively). Moreover, it was found that having two or more of either of rigidity, perfectionism, dramatization, mood swings, and impulsivity was significantly more frequent among cases (P < 0.001) showing a unique personality pattern of women with vaginismus.

Conclusions

Women with vaginismus were having higher levels of alexithymia, more developing anxiety, and depressive disorders than controls and they have specific personality characteristics.
Comparative study of the design and simulation of an AC to high DC voltage generation circuit
Authors: Kenfack Pierre , Dandoussou Abraham , Nkale Edung Fabrice
Published: May 2022

Decades after the invention of the Cockcroft–Walton voltage multiplier, it is still being used in broad range of high voltage and ac to dc applications. High voltage ratio and high efficiency are its main features. Due to the limitations of original circuit, reducing the output ripple and increasing the accessible voltage level motivated scientists to propose new topologies. However, over the worldwide bibliography, most of Cockcroft-Walton voltage designers persist in using equal capacitances in every stage without considering an optimal design. The aim of this paper is to do a comparative study of the design and simulation of a fixed model (conventional model used by most authors) and a variable model (new design) of generating High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) based on Cockcroft–Walton voltage multiplier that stresses on the choice of the adequate capacitance values to reduce the output voltage drop, produce less ripple and the calculations of the optimal number of stages that is necessary to produce the desired output voltage with a better performance. The generation of HVDC based on Cockcroft–Walton voltage multiplier and an eight stage was used for simulations and theoretical analysis which yielded up to 4.4 kV DC from an input voltage of 230 V, 50 Hz ac supply. The results are compiled from the simulations done on MATLAB/SIMULINK, by the designs and simulations characteristics of the models the performances, output voltages and ripple voltages per stage have been compared.
The impact of an educational tool in cervix image registration across three imaging modalities
Authors: Benson Rebecca , Rodgers John , Nelder Claire , Clough Abigael , Pitt Eleanor , Parker Jacqui , Whiteside Lee , Davies Lucy , Bailey Rachael , McMahon John , Kolbe Hope , Cree Anthea , Dubec Michael , Van Herk Marcel , Choudhury Ananya , Hoskin Peter , Eccles Cynthia
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Accurate image registration is vital in cervical cancer where changes in both planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OARs) can make decisions regarding image registration complicated. This work aims to determine the impact of a dedicated educational tool compared with experience gained in MR-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT).

Methods

10 therapeutic radiographers acted as observers and were split into two groups based on previous experience with MRgRT and Monaco treatment planning system. Three CBCT-CT, three MR-CT and two MR-MR registrations were completed per patient by each observer. Observers recorded translations, time to complete image registration and confidence. Data were collected in two phases; prior to and following the introduction of a cervix registration guide.

Results

No statistically significant differences were noted between imaging modalities. Each group was assessed independently pre- and post-education, no statistically significant differences were noted in either CBCT-CT or MR-CT imaging. Group 1 MR-MR imaging showed a statistically significant reduction in interobserver variability (p=0.04), in Group 2, the result was not statistically significant (p=0.06). Statistically significant increases in confidence were seen in all three modalities (p≤0.05).

Conclusions

At The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, radiographers consistently registered images across three different imaging modalities regardless of their previous experience. The implementation of an image registration guide had limited impact on inter- and intraobserver variability. Radiographers’ confidence showed statistically significant improvements following the use of the registration manual.

Advances in knowledge

This work helps evaluate training methods for novel roles that are developing in MRgRT.
A re-analysis of data from Sullins, Rosik, and Santero (2021): are sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) helpful for those who don't change?
Authors: Schumm Walter  R.
Published: May 2022

Background.  Sullins, Rosik, and Santero (2021) evaluated a convenience sample of 125 men who had undergone sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) and they made their data available for independent analysis.    

Methods:  Data from Sullins et al. (2021) were reanalyzed in ten new ways.  Several new typologies and variables were created.  Paired sample t-tests, correlations, regression analyses, repeated measures analyses with time x group interactions, and chi-square tests were used to evaluate ten novel hypotheses.

Results:  Using parametric statistics, we found similar results to Sullins et al. (2021) where they had used nonparametric statistics.  Regression analyses found that lower initial SSI and higher SSB predicted more change.  Using a new typology for marital status, it was found that those who became engaged/got married during SOCE had the largest gains in OSB compared to other categories of marital status.   Using the typology of change, it was found that some men who became stronger for SSA, SSI, and SSB nevertheless reported high levels of helpfulness for SOCE.  Harms from SOCE seem to be minimal compared to the positives reported for young adults.  SOCE effectiveness did not appear to change with time since therapy, lending less support to a recall bias argument.  Congruence between SSA and SSI, may, in some cases, reduce the apparent effectiveness of SOCE 

Conclusion:  While the sample’s results cannot be generalized outside of highly religious men with initially higher levels of SSA and SSB than SSI, these results differ from many contemporary assertions that SOCE cannot ever be effective and is inherently harmful, or that SSA is inherently immutable.  Therefore, calls to ban SOCE legally appear to be founded upon incomplete or inaccurate data and thus premature, while more higher quality research is yet needed regarding SOCE.
Music and Movement for Health: Protocol for a pragmatic cluster-randomised feasibility pilot trial of an arts-based programme for the health and wellbeing of older adults
Authors: Clifford Amanda M. , Ni Bhriain Orfhlaith , Byrne Steven , Cheung Pui-Sze , Louw Quinette , Glynn Liam , Moss Hilary , O'Neill Desmond , Woods Catherine B. , Sheikhi Ali , Gowran Rosemary Joan , Maher Catherine , Kennelly Brendan , Salsberg Jon , Thabane Lehana
Published: May 2022

Background: Arts-based health programmes (ABHP) can enhance the physical and psychosocial health and wellbeing of older people. However, the feasibility and usefulness of such programmes in Ireland are currently unknown. The primary aim of this study is to examine the feasibility of the study design, its application to a music and movement for health programme and associated costs. The secondary aim is to obtain preliminary effect estimates of an ABHP on health and wellbeing in older adults.

Methods: This study is a pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled feasibility trial. Community-dwelling adults, aged 65 years or older will be recruited in the mid-west region of Ireland via methods including social prescription, traditional and social media. The clusters, based on geographical region, will be block randomised to either the ABHP or control using 1:1 allocation ratio. The programme will comprise a 1.5-hour music and dance session each week for 12-weeks together with a 1-hour home-based music and movement programme for 12-weeks. A qualitative and quantitative process evaluation of the arts-based health programme will be performed.

Outcomes: Primary outcomes for feasibility include recruitment rates (the number of participants recruited per cluster per month); retention rate (the number of participants who complete measures at baseline and at follow up post intervention, and minimum average attendance. Secondary outcomes will include physical function, balance, physical activity, loneliness, social isolation, cognition, mood, as well as quality of life and cost.

Conclusions: If this pioneering study finds evidence to support feasibility and acceptability, a future larger-scale definitive trial will be conducted to examine the effectiveness of an arts-based health programme for older adults. This research aims to strengthen collaborative efforts to implement effective, sustainable and cost-effective programmes for older adults to support community connection, enhancing health and wellbeing, in turn reducing demands on the healthcare system.

ISRCTN registration: ISRCTN35313497 (18/02/2022).
Strokes in children
Authors: Sielwanowska Wiktoria , Monika Żybowska  , Anna Rzewuska  , Bartłomiej Syzdoł  , Chrościńska-Krawczyk Magdalena
Published: May 2022

Introduction and purpose 
A stroke is a group of neurological symptoms that develops when blood flow to the brain is stopped suddenly. Stroke is relatively rare in the group of pediatric patients. The incidence is estimated at 2.5 cases per 100,000 children per year. Mortality is up to 4%. Long-term consequences and complications concern more than half of the patients. 
 
Brief description of the state of knowledge 
The etiopathogenesis of stroke in children is diverse. The main risk factors are congenital heart disease, vascular damage, metabolic diseases and infections. The symptoms of a stroke depend on the location and extent of the ischemic changes. In children they may initially be uncharacteristic. The most common are headaches, vomiting, convulsions, disturbed consciousness, and hemiparesis. The gold standard in cerebral ischemia imaging is brain magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). In treatment controlling vital parameters plays an important role. Treatment includes anti-aggregating and anticoagulant drugs. It is possible to transfuze blood or surgical treatment. Complications of stroke in children are diversify and depend on a lot of factors. These include movement disorders, cognitive functions impairment, tension headaches and difficulty with expression and fluency of speech. 
 
Conclusion 
A stroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate treatment. It can have uncharacteristic symptoms in children. Acute cerebral ischemia in children carries the risk of developing long-term, severe complications. Pediatric patients with a history of acute cerebral ischemia should be under the constant care of specialized treatment and rehabilitation centers, which will enable patients to function independently among their peers.
Evaluación de la competencia digital del alumnado de ciclo superior de primaria en Cataluña
Authors: Baeza-González Adrián , Lázaro-Cantabrana José Luis , Sanromà-Giménez Mònica
Published: May 2022

La Competencia Digital (CD) adquiere un valor fundamental para ejercer una ciudadanía activa. No obstante, ante la falta de herramientas de diagnóstico de su nivel de desarrollo en educación primaria y debido a la dificultad de medir esta variable en edades tempranas, en este artículo se presenta una prueba que evalúa, de forma objetiva y global, los conocimientos vinculados a la CD de estudiantes de último ciclo de educación primaria. El proceso de trabajo, en cuanto al diseño y pilotaje de esta herramienta, se presenta en cuatro fases: revisión de literatura, juicio de expertos, experiencia piloto y encuesta a usuarios. Como resultado se presentan dos productos: el instrumento de evaluación y un protocolo de aplicación para los docentes. Los datos obtenidos indican un nivel de desarrollo bajo de la CD aunque éste es mejor en el caso de los estudiantes que realizan un trabajo sistemático de esta competencia en su centro educativo. Como conclusión destacamos la importancia de llevar a cabo procesos de evaluación objetivos de la CD que, además de para medir los conocimientos de los estudiantes, sirvan para implementar medidas compensadoras de los efectos de la brecha digital y mejorar las habilidades digitales desde edades tempranas.
Relationship Between Japanese Language Anxiety, Beliefs About Learning, and Language Use in Japanese Language Classes
Authors: Inagaki Rika , Nakaya Motoyuki
Published: May 2022

This study examined the relationship between Japanese language (JL) anxiety, beliefs about JL learning, and the amount of JL used in JL classes. The participants in this study were 670 undergraduate students studying JL at the Institute of Technology in Bangkok, Thailand, as compulsory subjects. A questionnaire survey was conducted, and a stepwise multiple regression analysis found that the amount of JL used by learners had a negative relationship with JL anxiety and a positive relationship with beliefs about JL learning and the amount of JL used by both native Thai and Japanese teachers. In addition, JL anxiety interacted with the amount of JL used by native Japanese teachers and beliefs about JL learning. JL teachers, especially native Japanese teachers, should attempt to reduce their learners' JL anxiety in order to maximize the effect of teachers’ JL use and learners’ beliefs and to support them in using JL more in classes.
The Effect of Learning by Teaching on Soft-Skill Improvement Among Undergraduate Students
Authors: Kasim Usman , Muslem Asnawi , Mustafa Faisal
Published: May 2022

Learning by teaching is a technique where students teach an actual class to facilitate active learning. This paper reports ongoing research involving undergraduate students at an established university in Indonesia. The objective of this quantitative study was to find out the effect of this teaching technique in improving students’ 21st century skills. The sample was selected using a cluster sampling technique, where 25 students who were English as a Foreign Language pre-service teachers were assigned to an experimental group, and the other 23 students were treated as a control group. The students in the experimental group were asked to conduct a workshop in groups to students from the same department at a different university. Each group selected one of the topics in their course syllabus. A pre-test measuring the students’ soft skills was conducted before the course started and after it finished. The results show that soft skills, which include accountability, communication, innovation, problem-solving, teamwork, professional working, and networking skills, improved significantly among students in the experimental group, but the improvement was not evident in the control group. Therefore, learning by teaching should be embraced as an alternative teaching technique when soft-skill development becomes a target of instruction.
How Scaffolding Integrated With Problem Based Learning Can Improve Creative Thinking in Chemistry?
Authors: Ernawati M. Dwi Wiwik , Sudarmin Sudarmin , Asrial Asrial , Damris Muhammad , Haryanto Haryanto , Nevriansyah Eko , Fitriani Riska , Putri Wita Ardina
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to describe the differences in students' creative thinking skills in a problem-based learning model with scaffolding in the biochemistry course. This study was designed using a quantitative explanatory research design with a sample of 113 students of the Jambi University Chemistry Education Study Program. In this study, the researcher used the experimental class and control class. The sampling technique used is total sampling and purposive sampling. The research data was taken by observation, test, and interview methods. The quantitative data analysis used was the ANOVA test and continued with the Post-Hoc Scheffe’s test. The findings of this study indicate that the results of the ANOVA test indicate a significant difference in the average creative thinking results in terms of psychomotor aspects with the acquisition of significance scores of 0.000. In addition, the results of this study indicate that class A students have higher creative thinking skills than class B and class C. This is because class A students use a problem-based learning model integrated with scaffolding in their learning.
The Role of Visual Representations in Geometry Learning
Authors: Žakelj Amalija , Klančar Andreja
Published: May 2022

Visual representations and the process of visualisation have an important role in geometry learning. The optimal use of visual representations in complex multimedia environments has been an important research topic since the end of the last century. For the purpose of the study presented in this paper, we designed a model of learning geometry with the use of digital learning resources like dynamic geometry programmes and applets, which foster visualisation. Students explore geometric concepts through the manipulation of interactive virtual representations. This study aims to explore whether learning of geometry with digital resources is reflected in higher student achievements in solving geometric problems. This study also aims to explore the role of graphical representations (GRs) in solving geometric problems. The results of the survey show a positive impact of the model of teaching on student achievement. In the post-test, students in the experimental group (EG) performed significantly better than students in the control group (CG) in the overall number of points, in solving tasks without GR, in calculating the area and the perimeter of triangles and quadrilaterals than the CG students, in all cases with small size effect. The authors therefore argue for the use of digital technologies and resources in geometry learning, because interactive manipulatives support the transition between representations at the concrete, pictorial and symbolic (abstract) levels and are therefore important for understanding mathematical concepts, as well as for exploring relationships, making precise graphical representations (GRs), formulating and proving assumptions, and applying different problem-solving strategies.
Does Teacher’s Willingness to Change Enhance Professional Competence?
Authors: Herawati Reni , Tjahjono Heru Kurnianto , Qamari Ika Nurul , Wahyuningsih Sri Handari
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the contribution of teachers’ willingness to their professional competence in adapting to digital learning transformation during the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and its relationship to instructional leadership and self-efficacy. Data were collected by distributing online questionnaires consisting of 4 constructs, namely instructional leadership, self-efficacy, teacher’s willingness to change, and professional competence, and distributed to 221 Indonesian High School teachers. Structural Equation Model (SEM) was used for analysis using Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) version 23.0 to examine the hypotheses. The results showed that instructional leadership significantly influences teachers’ willingness to change with a positive impact on their professional competence. Furthermore, there is a significant effect on teachers’ willingness to change their professional competence, insignificant on self-efficacy with substantial impacts on their willingness to change. The analysis results through the Sobel test showed that the teachers’ willingness to change is an excellent mediating variable for self-efficacy in influencing professional competence. Conversely, it is not an excellent mediating variable for instructional leadership towards professional competence. The importance of teachers’ willingness to improve their professional competence is a new finding that significantly contributes to their professional development.
Inspiring Leadership: Values in Building the Excellent Inclusive Higher Education
Authors: Muhimmah Hitta Alfi , Budiyanto Budiyanto , Mudjito Mudjito , Supriyanto Supriyanto
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the inspiring leadership values in building an excellent inclusive higher education, including proactiveness, high-spiritedness, visionary, and humanist mindset. This was a case study where data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observation, document analysis, and audiovisual material observation. The analysis was carried out by making data transcription, notes, video recordings, and documents; generating ideas, codifying data, designing themes, and interpreting data. Results show that inspiring leadership with a proactive mindset in policymaking can create original ideas, realize them actively and innovatively as well as solve problems creatively. High motivation leadership is seen through its activeness in asking the academic community to work together in building an inclusive higher education such as by attending activities related to special needs students. Visionary leadership is seen from its ability to build clear and measurable vision, mission, and organizational goals. In addition, it is also capable to see opportunities related to inclusive higher education's future development by generating appropriate policies and finding job opportunities for special needs students. Humanist leadership is an ability to manage challenges, conflicts, and resistance often arising during the process to build an inclusive higher education. Regarding the results, this study implies that inspiring leadership serves as one of the key factors to build an excellent inclusive higher education. However, due to limitations of this study, it is required further studies.