bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ZNF717 or PABPC1 Gene Variants Contribute to Congenital Esophageal Atresia by Interfering with Normal Esophageal Growth
Authors: Ke Jiangwei , Chen Kuai , Liu Zhiqiang , Yang Ximei , Hu Xiaolu
Published: March 2024

Congenital esophageal atresia (EA) is an abnormality induced by the incomplete differentiation of the foregut in infants, and is frequently accompanied by tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Our understanding of the pathogenesis of EA-TEF is limited, additionally, there is still a lack
of standard animal or cell models for in vitro EA-TEF investigation. Therefore, we analyzed esophageal tissue samples from 10 children with EA-TEF via Exome sequencing (ES) to identify gene variants. And esophageal organoid units (EOUs) were established as an in vitro model of
EA by culturing esophageal tissues from Adriamycin-challenged rats. The ES results indicated 11 mutated genes, including the frameshift variants of ZNF717 and PABPC1. The EA organoids expressed the esophageal marker proteins CK13 and CK4 and showed a significantly slower rate
of growth and dysplasia of cell development. In EA organoids, the transcription of SOX2, ZNF717, and PABPC1 was downregulated at varying levels, while NOGGIN transcription was markedly upregulated. Furthermore, when siRNA-ZNF717 or siRNA-PABPC1 was transfected into
normal esophageal organoids, the proliferation of esophageal cells was significantly decreased. In conclusion, we found that normal ZNF717 and PABPC1 expressions are essential to the esophageal development, whereas the variant or deficiency of these genes might lead to EA-TEF.
LncRNA FOXD2-AS1 Promotes the Growth, Invasion and Migration of OSCC Cells by Regulating the MiR-185-5p/PLOD1/Akt/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Liu Jian , Zhang Yong , Wu Jingjing , Liu Xin , Li Lifang , Zhang Jinhong
Published: March 2024

Although lncRNAs are recognized to contribute to the development of oral squamous-cell carcinoma (OSCC), their exact function in invasion and cell migration is not clear. In this research, we explored the molecular and cellular mechanisms of FOXD2-AS1 in OSCC. Prognostic and bioinformatics
analyses were used to test for the differential expression of FOXD2-AS1-PLOD1. Following FOXD2-AS1 suppression or overexpression, changes in cell viability were measured using the CCK-8 test; changes in cell migration and invasion abilities were measured using the migration and the Transwell
assay. The expression of associated genes and proteins was found using Western blot and RT-qPCR. Analysis of luciferase reporter genes was done to look for regulatory connections between various molecules. The FOXD2-AS1-PLOD1 pair, which was highly expressed in OSCC, was analyzed and experimentally
verified to be closely related to the prognosis of OSCC, and a nomogram model and correction curve were constructed. The inhibition of FOXD2-AS1 resulted in the reduction of cell activity, migration, invasion ability and changes in genes related to invasion and migration. In vivo validation
showed that inhibition of FOXD2-AS1 expression slowed tumor growth, and related proteins changed accordingly. The experiments verified that FOXD2-AS1 negatively regulated miR-185-5p and that miR-185-5p negatively regulated PLOD1. In addition, it was found that the expression of PLOD1, p-Akt
and p-mTOR proteins in OSCC cells was reduced by the inhibition of FOXD2-AS1, and FOXD2-AS1 and PLOD1 were closely related to the Akt/mTOR pathway. Increased expression of FOXD2-AS1 promotes OSCC growth, invasion and migration, which is important in part by targeting miR-185-5p/PLOD1/Akt/mTOR
pathway activity.
Application of Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide Liposome Nanoparticles to Improve the Slow Healing of Refractory Wounds in Diabetic Foot
Authors: Gong Fan , Wang ZhiBing , Zhang Yun , Zhang Hanlin , Gao Jian , Li XiaoLiang , Cheng SuoLi , Ma Guoxu , Zhao Fei
Published: March 2024

Refractory wounds in diabetic foot heal slowly. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides has been found to have the effect of lowering blood sugar. At the same time, the role of CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling in the healing process of diabetic foot has attracted much more attention. This study aimed
to explore the mechanism by which Lycium barbarum polysaccharide liposome nanoparticles improve slow healing of refractory wounds in diabetic feet through CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis. A rat model of diabetic foot trauma was constructed and lipid nanoparticles-Lycium barbarum polysaccharides
(LNP-LBP) nanocomposite was prepared and administrated into the rats. During the administration process, wound healing conditions were observed and recorded. HE staining was performed on each group, and inflammatory factors, CXCR4, and podocyte marker protein Nephrin were observed. Compared
with control group, the blood sugar levels and inflammatory factor IL-6 levels of mice in the Lycium barbarum polysaccharide liposome nanoparticles group were reduced, and the wound healing speed was significantly accelerated (P < 0.05). LNP-LBP significantly reduced the levels of
CXCL12 and CXCR4 in mouse wound tissues (P < 0.05). Moreover, when LNP-LBP and CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis inhibitors were used in combination, the wound healing speed was further accelerated and IL-6 levels were significantly increased. LNP-LBP can reduce the blood sugar level of
diabetic foot rats, reduce the inflammatory response of diabetic foot wounds and swelling of wound podocytes, promote cell autophagy to speed up metabolism, thereby promoting refractory wounds healing in diabetic foot. The effect is related to inhibiting the expression of CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling.
Polymerase Chain Reaction Cleaner with Antibacterial Effect and Faster Elimination of Nucleic Acid Aerosol Pollution
Authors: Hu Gui , Chen Yuting , Pan Yueying , Zhang Xinyu , Chen Hui , Wu Yanqi , He Nongyue
Published: March 2024

With advancement of nucleic acid detection technology, most universities, biological testing companies, and hospitals have Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) laboratories. PCR detection technology is the core technology for nucleic acid detection. When nucleic acid detection is performed
in a PCR laboratory, nucleic acid aerosol samples are often dispersed to the environment in the form of aerosols. At this time, there will be some nucleic acid contamination in the PCR laboratory, resulting in false positive samples. The purpose of this paper is to propose a new type of nucleic
acid pollution scavenger called PCR Cleaner. Firstly, the best ratio of PCR Cleaner was obtained by a control experiment, and then the antibacterial test for the PCR Cleaner was carried by comparing the nucleic acid pollution removal efficiency of different ratios of PCR Cleaner and common
nucleic acid pollution scavenger on the surface and in the air. Experiment results showed that, the removal efficiency of PCR Cleaner on the surface of nucleic acid was much higher than that of alcohol and aqueous solution. Its effect was good enough when compared to the two commonly used
nucleic acid pollution scavengers (DNA/RNA-ExitusPlus and PCR clean). The antibacterial and bacteriostatic PCR Cleaner can significantly inhibit the growth of high concentration of E. coli, and can also completely inhibit the low concentration of E. coli.
Effect of TiO2 Nanotubes on Biological Activity of Osteoblasts and Focal Adhesion Kinase/Osteopontin Level
Authors: Che Chunqing , Wang Jinfeng , Guo Weixiao
Published: March 2024

Osteoblasts are important cells for bone formation and play a major part in bone diseases and bone defects. Clinically, we usually adopt bone implants for related diseases. Also, nanotechnology is important in bones and joints. This study assessed the effects of TiO2 nanotubes
of different diameters on osteoblast activity, FAK and OPN levels, aiming to provide an experimental foundation for selection of clinical bone implant materials. The morphology of MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells changed with expansion of TiO2 nanotubes’ diameter. From the biological
activity, the cell proliferation and adhesion were enhanced as the diameter of the TiO2 nanotube was increased and its proliferation and adhesion were highest in the 100 nm TiO2 nanotube, which is related to increased ALP activity, FAK and OPN protein and mRNA expression.
ELISA detected ALP activity and found that MG-63 cells cultured with 70 nm nanotube had strongest activity. Immune blotting and PCR results showed that, FAK and OPN activities were highest in 70 nm TiO2 nanotube cells. In summary, TiO2 nanotubes increased cell proliferation
and adhesion by up-regulating the activities of FAK and OPN in a concentration-dependent relationship.
Is the Future Female? Lessons from a Conjoint Experiment on Voter Preferences in Six Arab Countries
Authors: Lust Ellen , Benstead Lindsay J.
Published: March 2024

Despite growing evidence of pro-female bias in the electorate elsewhere, conventional wisdom holds that voters in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) prefer male candidates, presumably due to sexism. We test this conventional wisdom using a conjoint experiment administered to over 30,000 respondents in six MENA countries. We find both male and female respondents are more likely to express support for female candidates and see them as more capable than their male counterparts, even in stereotypically male domains. We argue the increasing demand for political outsiders explains these results. In highlighting the importance of such changes, our study expands the application of gender congruity theory in the MENA and beyond by offering evidence that both changes in gender stereotypes (i.e., gender roles) and in what citizens desire in leaders (i.e., leader roles) reduce anti-female bias at the polls.
Short-term oxidation and residual compression properties of needle-punched carbon/carbon composites
Authors: Han Meng , Wang Zhichao , Zhang Xingyu , Ni Yang , Ma Weixin , Qi Ge , Han Xiujing , Silberschmidt Vadim V. , Zhou Chuwei
Published: March 2024

Needle-punched carbon/carbon (NP C/C) composite is widely used in rocket-engine nozzles and re-entry vehicles. Recyclable technology expedited the research on repeated oxidation and residual mechaincal properties of thermal-protection materials. In this study, the critical longitudinal compression strengths before and after oxidation are derived based on the Timoshenko beam theory. Three repetitions of short-term oxidation cycles and compression experiments are investigated. The average oxidation rate of this composite was 5∼6% in 10 min and kept linear increase. In-plane and out-of-plane compressive strengths of NP C/C composite diminish quasi-linearly due to oxidation at 1000°C, with their moduli decreasing in a periodically slow-sharp pattern. After three oxidation cycles, the levels of residual in-plane modulus and strength were 55.20% and 56.89%, respectively, while the resudual out-of-plane modulus and strength were 44.65% and 47.23%, respectively. The results showed that the material exhibited the pesudo-plastical behaviour after oxidation, cracks grew along the punched conical structures formed by the punching technology. In-plane and out-of-plane modulus were more sensitive than their strengths after first oxidation cycle.
Sexual Victimization and the Existential Impact of #MeToo
Authors: Williamson Rachel E. , Hardt Selina , Courtney Emily P. , Goldenberg Jamie L.
Published: March 2024

The MeToo movement heightened reminders of sexual violence, while also providing opportunities for collective support and meaning. To explore the existential impact of exposure to online content related to sexual violence, we randomly assigned participants ( N = 537) to one of three conditions involving reading tweets presenting statistics about either: sexual violence, sexual violence paired with the #MeToo hashtag, or property theft. Participants then completed a measure of unconscious death thought accessibility (DTA) and the Existential Concerns Questionnaire (ECQ). Participants also reported on history of sexual victimization and described their views on the MeToo movement. Open-ended responses were coded as reflecting neutral, positive, or negative views of the movement. An inductive content analysis resulted in eight central themes, including: sense of community, raising awareness/promoting change, and movement being misused. Following coding, and with both DTA and ECQ as outcomes, we ran a 3 (condition) x 3 (MeToo views: positive, negative, neutral) x 2 (victimization history) ANOVA. A significant main effect of victimization was found for both implicit and explicit measures of existential anxiety: those with a history of sexual victimization reported higher DTA and ECQ scores compared with those with no reported history. A significant Condition x Views interaction was also found, such that, within the MeToo condition, those with positive views of the movement had lower DTA compared with those with neutral or negative views. Results highlight the relevance of existential impact to sexual victimization, as well as the potential for social movements to buffer these impacts.
Nonsingular adaptive finite-time consensus control for uncertain nonlinear multi-agent systems with input quantization
Authors: Jiang Yunbiao , Wang Fuyong , Liu Zhongxin , Chen Zengqiang
Published: March 2024

This paperinvestigates the distributed consensus control for nonlinear multi-agent systems with input quantization in a directed communication topology. A nonsingular adaptive finite-time control (NAFTC) scheme is proposed by combining the filtered backstepping method with neural network control. Both chattering and singularity problems of the control signals are avoided thanks to its [Formula: see text] continuity, so that the contradiction between discontinuous- and [Formula: see text] continuous finite-time control with input quantization does not exist in our scheme. At the same time, a novel inequality for the input-output relationship of hysteresis quantizer is derived, which can simply handle the input quantization without requiring additional stability analysis. What is more, some common assumptions, such as Lipschitz assumption and Holder-continuity assumption, are not required in our scheme. Finally, stability analysis and numerical simulation are provided.
‘Telling China’s Story Well’ as propaganda campaign slogan: International, domestic and the pandemic
Authors: Xu Jian , Gong Qian
Published: March 2024

The article critically examines ‘Telling China’s Story Well’ (TCSW), a popular propaganda campaign slogan proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013. Drawing on theories about storytelling and propaganda and using the COVID-19 as a contextualised example, the paper discusses how the slogan was adapted into ‘Telling China’s Anti-pandemic Story Well’ to mobilise domestic and external propaganda of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) during the pandemic. We argue that TCSW should be understood as a well-crafted political watchword which promotes and commands strategic narratives of doing propaganda. It has the rhetorical power to integrate and reinvigorate domestic and external propaganda, and to facilitate their convergence. Adapting this slogan to mobilise propaganda campaigns of national or global importance and interest demonstrates the CCP’s ambition to harness strategic storytelling to improve the coherence, effectiveness and reputation of its propaganda at home and abroad.
PET imaging of M4 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in rhesus macaques using [11C]MK-6884: Quantification with kinetic modeling and receptor occupancy by CVL-231 (emraclidine), a novel positive allosteric modulator
Authors: Belov Vasily , Guehl Nicolas J , Duvvuri Sridhar , Iredale Philip , Moon Sung-Hyun , Dhaynaut Maeva , Chakilam Srinivas , MacDonagh Alexander C , Rice Peter A , Yokell Daniel L , Renger John J , El Fakhri Georges , Normandin Marc D
Published: March 2024

Stimulation of the M4 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor reduces striatal hyperdopaminergia, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for schizophrenia. Emraclidine (CVL-231) is a novel, highly selective, positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of M4 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors i.e. acts as a modulator that increases the response of these receptors. First, we aimed to further characterize the positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and quantification performance of a recently developed M4 PAM radiotracer, [11C]MK-6884, in non-human primates (NHPs). Second, we applied these results to determine the receptor occupancy of CVL-231 as a function of dose. Using paired baseline-blocking PET scans, we quantified total volume of distribution, binding potential, and receptor occupancy. Both blood-based and reference region-based methods quantified M4 receptor levels across brain regions. The 2-tissue 4-parameter kinetic model best fitted regional [11C]MK-6884-time activity curves. Only the caudate nucleus and putamen displayed statistically significant [11C]MK-6884 uptake and dose-dependent blocking by CVL-231. For binding potential and receptor occupancy quantification, the simplified reference tissue model using the grey cerebellum as a reference region was employed. CVL-231 demonstrated dose-dependent M4 receptor occupancy in the striatum of the NHP brain and shows promise for further development in clinical trials.
Crafting Climate Solutions for Nature-Dependent Subsistence Communities: A Dignity-Centric View
Authors: Venugopal Srinivas , Mohapatra Sarthak , Aiyar Anaka
Published: March 2024

Globally, more than 1.2 billion people depend directly on nature for their basic needs. These nature-dependent subsistence communities (NDSCs) bear the brunt of environmental disruptions caused by climate change. Prevailing climate solutions crafted by external “experts” often pursue narrow technocratic objectives that erode the dignity of NDSCs. In this paper, we conduct ethnographic research in a subsistence fishing community to develop a dignity-centric framework for crafting climate solutions for subsistence communities. We center the voices of community members in deriving our framework, which is a departure from prior approaches rooted in normative ethical frameworks. A unique feature of our framework is the dual focus on deontological (process-based) and teleological (outcome-based) dignity considerations. Furthermore, taking a dialectical approach to dignity outcomes, our framework reveals that climate solutions must account for three important dialectical tensions playing out within communities: cultural continuity versus cultural adaptation, place rootedness versus spatial mobility, and consumption adequacy versus aspirational consumption.
Bullshit (Sometimes) Makes the Art (Slightly) More Attractive: A Field Study in Gallery-Goers
Authors: Urbanek Arkadiusz , Borkowska Anna , Milczarski Wojciech , Zagrobelny Jarosław , Luty Jerzy , Białek Michał
Published: March 2024

Vague, impressive language used in descriptions (bullshit) is thought to make art seem more profound and valuable to the viewer. We studied the effect during art exhibitions in real-life gallery-goers who saw paintings of four artists, each with either simplified, neutral, or bullshitty description. We crafted a typical description of each painting, which we later manipulated in terms of language. A simplified description was modified to be concrete and simplistic, while a bullshitty one was very abstract and vague. After analyzing over 1500 ratings, we found the expressive language of descriptions had a negligible effect on the perceived quality and monetary value of art ( R2 marginal ≤ 1%). We conclude that, at least for experienced gallery-goers, the description accompanying a painting has little influence, and the art speaks for itself.
Proprioceptive learning with soft polyhedral networks
Authors: Liu Xiaobo , Han Xudong , Hong Wei , Wan Fang , Song Chaoyang
Published: March 2024

Proprioception is the “sixth sense” that detects limb postures with motor neurons. It requires a natural integration between the musculoskeletal systems and sensory receptors, which is challenging among modern robots that aim for lightweight, adaptive, and sensitive designs at low costs in mechanical design and algorithmic computation. Here, we present the Soft Polyhedral Network with an embedded vision for physical interactions, capable of adaptive kinesthesia and viscoelastic proprioception by learning kinetic features. This design enables passive adaptations to omni-directional interactions, visually captured by a miniature high-speed motion-tracking system embedded inside for proprioceptive learning. The results show that the soft network can infer real-time 6D forces and torques with accuracies of 0.25/0.24/0.35 N and 0.025/0.034/0.006 Nm in dynamic interactions. We also incorporate viscoelasticity in proprioception during static adaptation by adding a creep and relaxation modifier to refine the predicted results. The proposed soft network combines simplicity in design, omni-adaptation, and proprioceptive sensing with high accuracy, making it a versatile solution for robotics at a low material cost with more than one million use cycles for tasks such as sensitive and competitive grasping and touch-based geometry reconstruction. This study offers new insights into vision-based proprioception for soft robots in adaptive grasping, soft manipulation, and human-robot interaction.
How Australian singers experienced disruption to choir participation caused by pandemic lockdowns: A thematic analysis
Authors: Densley Belinda , Andrews Katrina , Flynn Trudi
Published: March 2024

Benefits of group singing participation have been well established and group singing through social prescription has attracted recent research attention. This study offers a unique participant perspective on the benefits of regular singing group engagement by exploring what happened when access was lost through COVID-19 lockdowns. Sixty adult singers, including five facilitators, who ceased singing during lockdown submitted responses to an online qualitative survey. The respondents had all participated regularly in group singing for at least 5 years. Multi-faceted experiences of loss associated with mood, emotional regulation, access to shared joy and social connection were described by participants. Dissatisfaction with online singing alternatives and challenges of navigating a face-to-face return to group singing were emphasized. The research also describes the specific experience of singing group facilitators who described feelings of anguish related to not being able to resource their groups with singing and negative impacts on their personal and professional identities. In exploring what is lost to facilitators and group members due to pandemic intervention, this study highlights the value and experience of group singing involvement outside of the COVID-19 context.
Know Thy Enemy and Know Yourself – The Role of Operational Data in Managing the Mines and Booby Trap Threat in Vietnam, 1965–73
Authors: Evans Roland , Temple Tracey , Nelson Liz
Published: March 2024

Victim operated explosive devices (VOEDs) such as mines and booby traps, have been an enduring problem since their large-scale use started in the 1940s. While the overall problem is often known about in general terms, the real complexion of the problem was not necessarily fully appreciated. Eventually the need to understand the problem and the response to it was partially identified and acted upon in Vietnam through the collection and analysis of operational data. This did not solve the problem of mines and booby traps, but it did offer a means to better manage the threat.
Digital euro and accountability of the European Central Bank
Authors: Grünewald Seraina
Published: March 2024

The digital euro might be adopted as early as 2026 – a momentous decision, with profound societal consequences. And yet, little attention has been paid to the European Central Bank (ECB)'s accountability in the process of adoption and beyond. This article attempts to fill this void. It argues that the concept of ‘independent accountability’, still prevalent regarding monetary policy, is an inappropriate standard to hold the ECB accountable for its decisions on the digital euro for at least three reasons. First, while the ECB has the power to issue a digital euro with cash-like features, its mandate is not clear-cut, nor are its decisions merely technical in nature. Second, the digital euro affects areas in which the ECB has no specific expertise or authority, such as privacy, and its adoption requires an unprecedented level of coordination with the EU legislators. And third, it is not only public authorities with which the ECB must engage, but also market actors and citizens to ensure the digital euro's success. What emerges is a new accountability standard, with a broader range of ‘accountability stakeholders’ and a stronger role for ex ante consultations.
Medical cannabis use in oncology and associated outcomes: A scoping review
Authors: Valente Ana Carolina , Lopes Luis Phillipe Nagem , Matheus Maria Eline
Published: March 2024

Background

Natural and synthetic cannabinoids are being used worldwide to treat various symptoms in cancer patients. This study aims to map the therapeutic benefits and adverse effects associated with the use of cannabis-based drugs in these outcomes.

Methods

Following Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines a scoping review was conducted. The study protocol was available in the Open Science Framework public repository. An extensive search strategy involving databases like Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, Medline/PubMed, Lilacs, Google Scholar, and Open Gray for gray literature analysis was executed by a skilled librarian. The inclusion criteria were primary studies (observational and randomized) that evaluated the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids in cancer patients. The review encompassed studies of diverse designs, publication years, and types, as long as they addressed cannabinoids’ impact in oncology.

Results

Twenty-nine (82.86%) out of total of 35 were randomized and 6 (14.14%) were non-randomized. About 57.1% of studies utilized registered products as interventions, with THC being the most natural cannabinoid cited in variable doses and administration routes. Moreover, 62.85% of studies specified the cancer types (breast, lung, sarcomas, hematological and reproductive system), while only one study detailed cancer staging. The evaluated outcomes encompassed nausea and vomiting (77.14%), appetite (11.43%), pain (8.57%), and tumor regression (2.86%) across different proportions of studies.

Conclusion

Cannabinoids show promise in managing pain, emesis, and anorexia/cachexia linked to cancer progression. New randomized clinical trials with a larger number of participants and observational studies on long-term safety are crucial to affirm their medicinal utility for cancer patients unresponsive to conventional drugs.
Models of fractional viscous stresses for incompressible materials
Authors: Berjamin Harold , Destrade Michel
Published: March 2024

We present and review several models of fractional viscous stresses from the literature, which generalise classical viscosity theories to fractional orders by replacing total strain derivatives in time with fractional time derivatives. We also briefly introduce Prony-type approximations of these theories. Here, we investigate the issues of material frame-indifference and thermodynamic consistency for these models and find that on these bases, some are physically unacceptable. Next, we study elementary shearing and tensile motions, observing that some models are more convenient to use than others for the analysis of creep and relaxation. Finally, we compute the incremental stresses due to small-amplitude wave propagation in a deformed material, with a view to establish acoustoelastic formulas for prospective experimental calibrations.
Safety Assessment of Basic Red 76 as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Cherian Priya , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Fiume Monice , Heldreth Bart
Published: March 2024

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) assessed the safety of Basic Red 76, which is reported to function in cosmetics as a hair colorant and hair-conditioning agent. The Panel reviewed the available data to determine the safety of this ingredient. The Panel concluded that Basic Red 76 is safe for use as a hair dye ingredient in the present practices of use and concentration described in the safety assessment.
Mapping Evaluation Use: A Scoping Review of Extant Literature (2005–2022)
Authors: Searle Michelle , Cooper Amanda , Worthington Paisley , Hughes Jennifer , Gokiert Rebecca , Poth Cheryl
Published: March 2024

Factors influencing evaluation use has been a primary concern for evaluators. However, little is known about the current conceptualizations of evaluation use including what counts as use, what efforts encourage use, and how to measure use. This article identifies enablers and constraints to evaluation use based on a scoping review of literature published since 2009 ( n = 47). A fulsome examination to map factors influencing evaluation use identified in extant literature informs further study and captures its evolution over time. Five factors were identified that influence evaluation use: (1) resources; (2) stakeholder characteristics; (3) evaluation characteristics; (4) social and political environment; and (5) evaluators characteristics. Also examined is a synthesis of practical and theoretical implications as well as implications for future research. Importantly, our work builds upon two previous and impactful scoping reviews to provide a contemporary assessment of the factors influencing evaluation use and inform consequential evaluator practice.
Tackling Noise: Technology Integration for Improved Noise Pollution Monitoring
Authors: Estrella Ivan , Pacheco Alex , Marin Wilson , Pacheco-Pumaleque Liz , Cuba-Carbajal Nestor , Pucuhuayla-Revatta Félix , Felix-Poicon Edwin , Añaños-Bedriñana Marco
Published: March 2024

Noise pollution derived from motor vehicles, especially those with noisy engines, constitutes a significant challenge in urban environments, impacting quality of life and public health. In this context, the present study focuses on the implementation of an advanced technological solution: a web-based system specifically designed to monitor and manage noise pollution in Tarapoto, Peru. The execution of this project was structured in 4 key phases. The first phase involved extensive data collection and definition of the project scope. In the second phase, the system architecture was established based on initial observations. The third phase focussed on evaluating and improving system functionalities, while the fourth involved rigorous testing and corrections. The successful implementation of this system led to a significant improvement in the noise pollution monitoring process, reducing reporting times and improving data-driven decision making. This project not only provides a valuable tool for authorities in the management and mitigation of noise pollution, but also encourages community awareness and active participation in the sustainable management of the urban acoustic environment.
Assessment of adequacy of single number quantities for wall insulation performance based on the Zwicker’s loudness of transmitted indoor noise
Authors: Glorieux Christ , Chmelík Vojtech , Rychtáriková Monika
Published: March 2024

Previous work suggested a method that makes use of the Zwicker’s loudness value of transmitted sound to validate single number quantities (SNQs) determining the airborne sound insulation of walls in dwellings. The correlation between the ranking of walls based on a SNQ, and the one based on transmitted sound loudness was used to qualify the adequacy of that SNQ. The underlying idea is that Zwicker’s loudness adequately represents people’s perception of loudness and that evaluations based on calculated loudness can substitute listening tests. The current work compares 16 SNQs: eight standardized or proposed in past studies, and eight new ones. The results are more robust, since more (56) walls were included, among which also highly isolating ones. SNQs are assessed for the indoor noise stimulus recently suggested by CSTB, France, and also for four filtered variants, and for two levels, the ‘usual’ or ‘normal’ level (as reported by CSTB), and that level increased by 10 dB, expressing the less common but psychologically and socially relevant situation of excessive neighbour noise. The adequacy of SNQs is analysed per wall category, (1) lightweight, (2) heavyweight, (3) CLT-based and (4) combined walls and per stimulus type. Three approaches are used to quantify the correlation between SNQ-based wall insulation performance rankings and Loudness based ones: (i) Spearman’s correlation coefficient, (ii) correlation and (iii) inverse RMS residual of fitting with a parametrized function that has been empirically conceived so as to describe as good as possible the correlation SNQ-Loudness correlation behaviour for the considered population of walls.
Evaluation of a psychoeducation group for children presenting with functional tic-like behaviours
Authors: Duncan Morvwen , Pearman Zoe , Harrold Katie , Warren Amy , Evans Sacha , McAllister Eve , Heyman Isobel , Shavel-Jessop Sara , Murphy Tara , Liang Holan
Published: March 2024

We describe the implementation and evaluation of an online psychoeducation group for young people experiencing functional tic-like behaviours (FTLBs) – a type of functional neurological disorder (FND). Across six groups, 50 participants completed pre- and post-group goal-based outcomes (GBOs) and 36 participants completed service-user feedback, which gathered qualitative and quantitative data about participants experiences of the group. Young people and their parents reported significant improvement in their GBOs following the group and increased knowledge and confidence in managing FTLBs. The findings highlight that virtual psychoeducation group intervention is an acceptable and effective first step in treatment of young people with FTLBs. We discuss implications for future intervention development.
Multibody dynamic study and optimization for a flexible support shaft system in unmanned underwater vehicle
Authors: An Yuchen , Liu Chaofan , Liu Jing , Pan Guang
Published: March 2024

This paper presented a multibody dynamic model for the shaft system in an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), the model considers the flexible coupling, ball bearing and flexible support. The stiffness characteristics of flexible coupling are calculated by using the finite-element analysis. The effects of load condition, bearing location and support stiffness on shaft vibrations are investigated. Then, an optimization for the bearing locations and support stiffness is conducted. This study provides some guidance for the design and vibration optimization of the shaft system in UUVs.
Preparation, design, and characterization of an electrospun polyurethane/calcium chloride nanocomposite scaffold with improved properties for skin tissue regeneration
Authors: Mani Mohan Prasath , Ponnambalath Mohanadas Hemanth , Faudzi Ahmad Athif Mohd , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Tucker Nick , Mohamaddan Shahrol , K Verma Suresh , Jaganathan Saravana Kumar
Published: March 2024

The present research paper explores the potential of electrospun nanofibers in the promising field of skin tissue engineering. Specifically, we propose an advanced preparation and characterization of an electrospun Polyurethane/Calcium Chloride (PU/CaCl2) nanocomposite scaffold, devised to boost the scaffold’s physicochemical and biological properties for skin tissue regeneration. By incorporating CaCl2 into the PU matrix using an electrospinning process, we were able to fabricate a novel nanocomposite scaffold. The morphological examination through Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) revealed that the fiber diameter of the PU/CaCl2 (563 ± 147 nm) scaffold was notably smaller compared to the control (784 ± 149 nm). The presence of CaCl2 in the PU matrix was corroborated by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Furthermore, the PU/CaCl2 scaffold exhibited superior tensile strength (10.81 MPa) over pristine PU (Tensile −6.16 MPa, Contact angle - 109° ± 1° and Roughness - 854 ± 32 nm) and revealed enhanced wettability (72° ± 2°) and reduced surface roughness (274 ± 104 nm), as verified by Contact angle and Atomic Force Microscopy. The developed scaffold demonstrated improved anticoagulant properties, indicating its potential for successful integration within a biological environment. The improved properties of the PU/CaCl2 nanocomposite scaffold present a significant advancement in electrospun polymer nanofibers, offering a potential breakthrough in skin tissue engineering. However, additional studies are required to thoroughly evaluate the scaffold’s effectiveness in promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. We aim to catalyze significant advancements in the field by revealing the creation of a potent skin scaffold leveraging electrospun nanofibers. Encouraging deeper exploration into this innovative electrospun composite scaffold for skin tissue engineering, the PU/CaCl2 scaffold stands as a promising foundation for pioneering more innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions in biomedical applications.
Embedding clinical research in pre-registration nursing and midwifery programmes
Authors: Henshall Catherine , Dorgan Sharon , Menzies Julie , Hopewell Nancy , Briggs Michelle , Cunningham Nicola , Rostron Heather , Brand Sarah , Allison Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Background:

Within the UK, there is a goal that research is embedded into everyday healthcare practice. Currently education provided to students at pre-registration level is theoretical, with little focus on clinical research delivery.

Aims:

The paper’s aim is to report on the development and evaluation of a pre-registration clinical research resource for nursing and midwifery students with direct application to clinical settings and patient care outcomes.

Methods:

An initial survey assessed whether the learning resource was useful for nursing pre-registration students. Based on the findings, alongside expert stakeholder input, adaptations were made to the learning resources and a second survey re-evaluated the learning resources. Survey findings were analysed using descriptive statistics. Free text responses were thematically grouped.

Results:

Ninety-seven pre-registration nursing students responded. Most students agreed that they had enjoyed using the resources, had improved understanding of clinical research, anticipated being actively involved in research and would consider a future clinical research role.

Conclusions:

The learning resources can help overcome barriers to research engagement by nurses and midwives. The results demonstrate that research can be incorporated into clinical, educational and academic roles, highlighting their worth in supporting the clinical research workforce.
Assessing the Vulnerability of Endemic Colombian Amphibian Species to Climate Change in an Isolated Montane Ecosystem
Authors: Roach Nicolette S. , Castellanos Adrian A. , Lacher Thomas E.
Published: March 2024

Background and Research Aims

Climate change, habitat loss, and fragmentation are the major threats to biodiversity. Montane amphibians are particularly sensitive to these threats. We address the vulnerability of the amphibian community in Colombia using a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment (CCVA) and prioritize amphibian species at risk of extinction and in need of conservation actions.

Methods

We completed two independent spatial analyses to assess species vulnerability in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (SNSM), Colombia. First, we calculated the Area of Habitat and the percent of the Area of Habitat under protected area coverage for 19 species. We then examined the breadth of climatic space occupied by 16 species and how this space is predicted to shift under climate scenarios (RCP scenarios 4.5 and 8.5) for 12 General Circulation Models for 2050. We combined these two analyses with trait data related to adaptive capacity, obtained from previous research, to create a combined (correlative-trait) CCVA.

Results

Our analysis reveals a large reduction in available climatic space under both RCP scenarios by 2050. Our CCVA identified eight high priority species, including three Atelopus species and five within the Serranobatrachus/Tachiramantis complex, with extreme reductions in available climate space under RCP 8.5. The SNSM endemic and range restricted species are at elevated risk of extinction under climate change scenarios, with many moving into a high-risk category of extinction under the RCP 8.5. Given its isolation, the endemic species of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (SNSM) are threatened by changing climates.

Implications for Conservation

The information provided in this manuscript used a vulnerability assessment to develop regional strategies for climate change adaptation and conservation. When possible, climate vulnerability must be incorporated into future adaptation and priority planning for the conservation of endemic, threatened montane amphibians, preferably via local management plans.
Nanodrug delivery systems for regulating microglial polarization in ischemic stroke treatment: A review
Authors: Lei Shuang-Yin , Yang Yu-Qian , Liu Jia-Cheng , Zhang Dian-Hui , Qu Yang , Sun Ying-Ying , Zhu Hong-Jing , Zhou Sheng-Yu , Yang Yi , Guo Zhen-Ni
Published: March 2024

The incidence of ischemic stroke (IS) is rising in tandem with the global aging population. There is an urgent need to delve deeper into the pathological mechanisms and develop new neuroprotective strategies. In the present review, we discuss the latest advancements and research on various nanodrug delivery systems (NDDSs) for targeting microglial polarization in IS treatment. Furthermore, we critically discuss the different strategies. NDDSs have demonstrated exceptional qualities to effectively permeate the blood–brain barrier, aggregate at the site of ischemic injury, and target specific cell types within the brain when appropriately modified. Consequently, NDDSs have considerable potential for reshaping the polarization phenotype of microglia and could be a prospective therapeutic strategy for IS. The treatment of IS remains a challenge. However, this review provides a new perspective on neuro-nanomedicine for IS therapies centered on microglial polarization, thereby inspiring new research ideas and directions.
Web 2.0 in higher education: Difference in usage and perception between Kazakh and Kyrgyz students
Authors: Jumabaeva Chinara , Ismailova Rita
Published: March 2024

The use of Web 2.0 technologies such as social media and user-generated content and their educational prospective attract the attention of many researchers. The results of the vast majority of these studies suggest that the use of social networks in the educational process can be helpful in increasing the quality of education and making it accessible to more students. In order to clarify the students’ opinions, a survey was conducted among students from various majors at leading universities in two Central Asian countries, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. The main objective of the study was to determine factors affecting students’ attitudes toward the usage of Web 2.0 technologies for educational purposes, as well as to examine the difference in the perceptions of Kyrgyz and Kazakh students. As the survey results show, social networks and online resources with user-generated content are gaining more and more importance for students. However, this popularity is not always related to education; the goals of using social networks are mostly for communication and entertainment. The use of social networks in education today is possible as an auxiliary means of conducting lessons. Students rather take the initiative and use social networks as a means of exchanging information on the tasks they perform, as a platform for discussing the topics studied, and the projects being implemented, but not as a dedicated system for education. Despite the similarity in the use of information technologies (and social networks) for educational purposes, in Kazakhstan, students begin to use the Internet specifically for education earlier than Kyrgyz students. Also, students from Kazakhstan more often use platforms in the national language.
Polypharmacy of Older Surgical Patients With Extremity Fractures
Authors: Taniguchi Takumi , Inagaki Risa , Michikawa Takehiro , Kawabata Soya , Yoshida Masahiro , Kawano Yusuke , Morita Mitsuhiro , Hayakawa Kazue , Iwata Mitsunaga , Yamada Shigeki , Fujita Nobuyuki
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Fractures are often caused by falls in older people. Among various causes of falls, polypharmacy is known to be a risk of falls. Furthermore, potentially inappropriate medicines (PIMs), which interact with polypharmacy, include the drugs involved in falls. Here, we primarily aimed to investigate the prescribed drugs in older surgical patients with extremity fractures to determine the frequency of polypharmacy and identify PIMs. The second aim was to clarify the characterization of prescribed drugs of older patients with hip fracture.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively collected the following clinical data of consecutive patients aged ≥65 years who underwent surgery for extremity fractures at our hospital between April 2019 and March 2021. A total of 19 categories were considered as PIMs. The Poisson regression models were used to examine the association between the number of prescribed drugs and hip fracture prevalence.

Results

A total of 590 patients were reviewed. Our data showed that 55% of older patients with extremity fractures took ≥6 prescription drugs. The frequency of prescription of hypnotics, antithrombotic drugs, diuretics, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was comparatively high among the 19 categories of PIMs. Multivariable analysis revealed that polypharmacy was significantly associated with hip fractures. Among PIMs, antithrombotic drugs and diuretics were significantly associated with the prevalence of hip fractures. Finally, we found a significant positive association between the prevalence of hip fracture and the number of drug categories of PIMs among older patients with extremity fractures.

Conclusions

The present study clarified the characterization of the prescribed drugs in older surgical patients with extremity fractures. Special attention should be paid to hip fractures of older patients with polypharmacy or prescribed with many drugs categories of PIMs, particularly antithrombotic drugs and diuretics.
Psychological Mediators of Reduced Distress: Preregistered Analyses From a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Smartphone-Based Well-Being Training
Authors: Hirshberg Matthew J. , Dahl Cortland J. , Bolt Daniel M. , Davidson Richard J. , Goldberg Simon B.
Published: March 2024

Understanding why interventions work is essential to optimizing them. Although mechanistic theories of meditation-based interventions (MBIs) exist, empirical evidence is limited. We randomly assigned 662 adults (79.9% reported clinical levels of anxiety or depressive symptoms) to a 4-week smartphone-based MBI or wait-list control condition early in the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychological distress and four theory-driven preregistered psychological mediators of well-being (mindful action, loneliness, cognitive defusion, and purpose) were assessed five times during the intervention period and at 3-month follow-up. In preregistered analyses, assignment to the intervention predicted significant gains on all mediators, which, in turn, significantly mediated follow-up distress (21.9%–62.5% of intervention effect on distress). No significant mediation pathway was observed in an exploratory multiple mediator analysis, but reduced loneliness accounted for 61.7% of the combined indirect effect. Multiple psychological pathways may mediate reduced distress in a digital MBI.