bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A safe and efficient decision algorithm for ramp merging based on a hierarchical planner and model predictive control
Authors: Pan Hao , Xiao Bin , Chen Linhui , Li Daofei
Published: June 2023

Due to highly dynamic interactions between vehicles, ramp merging decision is extraordinarily challenging in dense traffic. To deal with the non-convexity and inter-coupling of the decision-making problem, a top-level behavioural planner is proposed, which considers both the overall traffic situation and the individual characteristics of other interacting drivers. To ensure the implementability and efficiency of planning, a bottom-level motion planner is further designed with the guide of the top-level behavioural planner. The validation simulation using a naturalistic driving dataset shows that the proposed planning algorithm can achieve a success rate of 97.65% and has similar gap selection decision as human drivers. Then to track the planned vehicle motion, a nonlinear model predictive controller considering actuator delay and lag characteristics is proposed. Finally, the proposed planning and control modules are deployed in a turbocharged test vehicle, with satisfactory vehicle lateral and speed tracking errors, which validate the implementability of the proposed ramp merging decision algorithms.
Role of the front wing/wheel setting-up on the optimal cornering performances of a Formula 1 car
Authors: Peri Daniele , Di Mascio Andrea
Published: June 2023

We propose a hybrid approach based on meta-modelling techniques and machine-learning algorithms to determine the best car configuration for each circuit. By a specific interpolation model, we obtain an accurate estimation of the car’s speed as a function of the front wing configuration and the bend curvature. Some high-fidelity fluid dynamic simulations train the model and extend it to the entire design space. These data are then used as input for a simplified car dynamics model, providing an accurate estimate of the ideal lap time. Comparison with actual telemetry data confirms that the resulting tool is reliable, fast and easy to use.
Mitigation of state of charge estimation error due to noisy current input measurement
Authors: Kadem Onur , Kim Jongrae
Published: June 2023

The key indicator to assess the performance of a battery management system is the state of charge (SoC). Although various SoC estimation algorithms have been developed to increase the estimation accuracy, the effect of the current input measurement error on the SoC estimation has not been adequately considered in these algorithms. The majority of SoC estimation algorithms are based on noiseless current measurement models in the literature. More realistic battery models must include the current measurement modelled with the bias noise and the white noise. We present a novel method for mitigating noise in current input measurements to reduce the SoC estimation error. The proposed algorithm is validated by computer simulations and battery experiments. The results show that the proposed method reduces the maximum SoC estimation error from around 11.3% to 0.56% in computer simulations and it is reduced from 1.74% to 1.17% in the battery experiment.
Comparing Journalistic Role Performance Across Thematic Beats: A 37-Country Study
Authors: Mellado Claudia , Márquez-Ramírez Mireya , Van Leuven Sarah , Jackson Daniel , Mothes Cornelia , Arcila-Calderón Carlos , Berthaut Jérome , Blanchett Nicole , Boudana Sandrine , Chen Katherine Y. N. , Davydov Sergey , De Maio Mariana , Fahmy Nagwa , Ferrero Martina , Garcés Miguel , Hagen Lutz , Hallin Daniel C. , Humanes María Luisa , Himma-Kadakas Marju , Keel Guido , Kozman Claudia , Krstić Aleksandra , Lecheler Sophie , Lee Misook , Lin Christi I-Hsuan , Mazzoni Marco , McGuinness Kieran , McIntyre Karen , Mick Jacques , Navarro Cristina , Olivera Dasniel , Pizarro Marcela , Silke Henry , Skjerdal Terje , Stępińska Agnieszka , Szabó Gabriella , Viveros Aguilar Diana
Published: June 2023

Studies suggest that, at the routine level, news beats function as unique “micro-cultures.” Exploring this “particularist” approach in news content, we compare how the interventionist, watchdog, loyal, service, infotainment, and civic roles materialize across 11 thematic news beats and analyze the moderating effect of platforms, ownership, and levels of political freedom on journalistic role performance in hard and soft news. Based on the second wave of the Journalistic Role Performance (JRP) project, this article reports the findings of a content analysis of 148,474 news items from 37 countries. Our results reveal the transversality of interventionism, the strong associations of some topics and roles, and the limited reach of news beat particularism in the face of moderating variables.
Standardized Patients Versus Mannequins in Mental Health Simulation
Authors: Luebbert Rebecca , Perez Amelia , Andrews Angela , Webster-Cooley Tracy
Published: June 2023

Background:

Mental health nursing simulation using various modalities can be useful in increasing student confidence, satisfaction, knowledge, and communication skills. Studies comparing the benefits of mental health nursing simulation using standardized patients versus mannequins are scarce.

Aims:

The purpose of this study was to explore differences in knowledge, clinical learning, clinical reasoning, communication, confidence, and learner satisfaction when conducting mental health nursing simulation with standardized patients compared to mannequins.

Methods:

A convenience sample of 178 senior level baccalaureate nursing students enrolled in the mental health nursing course participated in this study. Of the total sample, 41.6% ( n = 74) participated in high-fidelity mannequin simulation and 58.4% ( n = 104) in standardized patient simulation. Measures included a knowledge assessment, Satisfaction with Simulation Experience Scale (SSE), and a simulation evaluation survey.

Results:

While knowledge levels increased regardless of simulation modality, clinical reasoning, clinical learning, communication, realism, and overall rating of the simulation experience were significantly higher among participants in standardized patient simulation compared to mannequins.

Conclusions:

Mental health simulations can be a useful learning tool for engaging in mental health scenarios in a safe simulated learning environment. While both mannequins and standardized patient modalities are helpful in increasing mental health nursing knowledge, standardized patient simulation has a greater impact on several other aspects including clinical reasoning and communication. Future multisite studies with larger samples are needed, including a wider variety of mental health scenarios.
Could endothelial progenitor cells complement the diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Hui , Fang Lanlan , Chen Yuting , Ma Yubo , Zhou Qiang , Xu Shengqian , Shuai Zongwen , Cai Guoqi , Pan Faming
Published: June 2023

The objective of this meta-analysis was to systematically review existing evidence and evaluate variations in levels of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) among individuals with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Relevant studies were identified through database searches, and 20 records were enrolled. We used the fixed-effect model or random-effect model to estimate the pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in circulating EPC levels between inflammatory arthritis patients and controls. The results showed that circulating EPC levels differed among subtypes of inflammatory arthritis, with significantly lower levels in patients with RA (SMD = −0.848, 95% CI = −1.474 to −0.221, p = 0.008) and PsA (SMD = −0.791, 95% CI = −1.136 to −0.446, p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant difference was found in circulating EPC levels between patients with JIA and controls (SMD = −1.160, 95% CI = −2.578 to 0.259, p = 0.109). Subgroup analyses suggested that in patients with RA, circulating EPC levels were influenced by age, disease activity, and duration. Although many studies have investigated circulating EPC levels in patients with inflammatory arthritis, the results have been inconsistent. This meta-analysis offers a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence and emphasizes the association between levels of circulating EPCs and various types of arthritis. However, further research is needed to determine the specific mechanisms underlying the observed differences in EPC levels in different types of arthritis and to establish the clinical utility of this biomarker.
Summer in the Parks: A History of Community-Centered Programming at National Parks
Authors: Kane Brendan , Zajchowski Christopher A. B. , Fefer Jessica P.
Published: June 2023

Washington, D.C. witnessed many watershed events throughout the history of the United States of America. One of these events, Summer in the Parks, was organized by the National Park Service to engage youth and racial minorities from 1968 to 1976. Our research sought to understand 1) the history of the initiative, 2) if and how this event is interpreted today, and 3) Park Service professionals’ perspectives of lessons can be learned from the Summer in the Parks regarding engaging underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. In-depth interviews using an interpretive phenomenological analysis with five professionals were conducted and paired with narratives from participants who were attendees of the historic program. Findings demonstrate limited existing interpretation of Summer in the Parks which mainly occurs through community partnerships. Respondents highlighted the importance of continuing the legacy of initiative, whether through programming, interpretation, or some combination of both.
Do owner-reported changes in mobility reflect measures of activity, pain and degenerative joint disease in cats?
Authors: Maniaki Evangelia , Murrell Jo , Langley-Hobbs Sorrel J , Blackwell Emily J
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The aim of this blinded, nested case-control study was to compare cats with and without early owner-reported mobility changes using subjective and objective outcome measures (owner-completed questionnaires, orthopaedic examination).

Methods

A total of 57 cats with and without early owner-reported signs of impaired mobility were allocated to the case (n = 30) and control (n = 27) groups, respectively. Participating owners completed one inclusion and two pre-visit questionnaires (Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index, VetMetrica). Cats were then visited in their own homes, where they underwent an orthopaedic examination, an assessment of their body condition score and temperament, and the placement of an accelerometer on their collar for 2 weeks.

Results

There was no significant difference between groups for age category, breed, sex, temperament and body condition score. Case cats scored significantly lower for the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index ( P = 0.003) and the VetMetrica domain of Comfort ( P = 0.002), but not Vitality ( P = 0.009) or Emotional Wellbeing ( P = 0.018). Total pain ( P <0.0001), crepitus ( P = 0.002) and thickening ( P = 0.003) scores were higher in case cats, as was the presence of bilateral disease ( P = 0.005, odds ratio 14) and the number of bilaterally affected joints ( P = 0.001).

Conclusions and relevance

Both the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index and orthopaedic examination were able to differentiate cats with early owner-reported signs of impaired mobility from healthy cats. VetMetrica Comfort domain scores indicated a compromised quality of life for cats with early owner-reported signs of impaired mobility compared with healthy cats. Being able to recognise signs of mobility impairment earlier would allow interventions aimed at slowing disease progression, thereby improving feline health and welfare.
Need for a paradigm shift in supporting children with medical care needs in Japan: Legal conflicts between scope and limits of reasonable accommodation in schools
Authors: Yoshitoshi Munehisa , Horiguchi Goro , Takahashi Kiriko
Published: June 2023

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) guarantees the right of all children to receive inclusive education and requires reasonable accommodations be provided accordingly. Japan, which ratified the CRPD in 2014, now positions the social model of disability at the core of its domestic laws and, in schools, we see more provisions of reasonable accommodations for children with disabilities. In this article, we analyze the very first judgments delivered on reasonable accommodations for children with medical care needs since Japan’s ratification of the CRPD. The case was closed by simply recognizing the “financial limitations” of the municipal government and school while excessively emphasizing the parents’ “duty to ensure children to receive general education.” Such a judgment did not sufficiently reflect the intent of the CRPD and relevant domestic laws guaranteeing inclusive education as a “human right” for children. We expect an inversion of this case in the future.
Attachment-Based Family Therapy to Improve Family Functioning in Adolescent Binge-Spectrum Eating Disorders: An Initial Evaluation Via Case Series Design
Authors: Manasse Stephanie M , Russon Jody , Lampe Elizabeth W , King Allie , Abber Sophie R , Trainor Claire , Gillikin Lindsay M , Levy Suzanne , Diamond Guy
Published: June 2023

Binge-spectrum eating disorders (EDs; bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder) often develop during adolescence and are associated with serious psychological and physical consequences. Current treatments for adolescents are highly behavioral in nature and while efficacious, many patients do not reach remission indicating that current treatments fail to target a key maintenance factor for EDs. One potential maintenance factor is poor family functioning (FF). In particular, high family conflict (e.g., arguing, critical comments) and low family cohesion (e.g., warmth, support) are known to maintain ED behaviors. Poor FF can (1) cause or exacerbate an adolescent’s use of ED behaviors to cope with life stress and/or (2) inhibit parents from being a resource to adolescents during ED treatment. Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) is specifically designed to improve FF, and thus may be a promising adjunct to behavioral ED intervention strategies. ABFT, however, has not been tested in adolescents with binge-spectrum EDs. Thus, the current study is the first to evaluate a 16-week adapted ABFT treatment for adolescents with EDs ( N = 8, Mage = 16.00, 71.43% female, 71.43% White) fusing together behavioral treatment for EDs with ABFT for highest possible impact. Eight families were treated in an open pilot trial to examine treatment feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy on FF and eating pathology. Overall, findings were promising. ABFT + B treatment was feasible and acceptable and showed preliminary evidence that it could improve FF and ED behaviors. Future research will test this intervention in a larger sample and further examine the role of FF in maintaining ED symptoms.
Assessing the long-term health impact of COVID-19: The importance of using self-reported health measures
Authors: Huijts Tim , Gage Witvliet Margot , Balaj Mirza , Andreas Eikemo Terje
Published: June 2023

It is estimated that at least one out of 10 people who contracted COVID-19 continue to experience health problems long after the clearance of the acute infection. These belong to the growing group of people who have post-acute sequelae of SARS CoV-2 infection or long COVID, a multifaceted condition involving multiple organ systems. Given the lack of clear definition and diagnosis, this marked increase in the number of people who have long COVID might not be fully reflected in data on population health in the years to come. In this editorial, we argue that the use of self-reported health measures is vital for fully assessing the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health and health inequalities. After briefly introducing self-reported health measures, we discuss strengths and limitations of specific measures that capture direct self-reports of long COVID. We then outline how the impact of long COVID may also be reflected in response patterns to more general self-reported health measures and give suggestions on how these can be used to examine the long-term health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Using Special Transformer Wiring to Improve the Three-phase Unbalance Rate of Railway System
Authors: Chen Chien-Hsu , Huang Sheng-Chieh
Published: June 2023

Because imbalanced power will cause the loss of the propulsion motor of the railway vehicle, and the increase in temperature will shorten the service life of the electric vehicle. Not only this but also increase the cost of electricity and maintenance. In the past, the industry only focused on methods to improve power quality such as load capacity, relay setting, and harmonic resolution. Now, the consider of three-phase unbalance rate (TPUR) must be applied. I propose special transformers wiring (STW) to improve the three unbalance rates and provide different transformer wiring methods. According to the IEEE Committee, in the future, power companies will need to install balanced relay stations to improve three-phase unbalance rate. The internal regulations of Taipower must be less than 4.5% (voltage unbalance rate (NPSUR) of 2.5% and motor temperature rise of 12.5%).

The derivation of the transformer “three-phase unbalance rate” model is the focus of the railway system. This research is based on the model derivation of different wiring methods to improve the problem caused by the three-phase imbalance and improve the using life of the train. They pointed out that Scott, Le-Blanc, and Modified-Woodbridge, the three wiring methods can be applied to future railway system and reduce the three-phase unbalance rate. They are in line with the IEEE standard ( [Formula: see text] ) of less than 2%.
‘Radio as usual’? Digital technologies and radio in conflict-Affected Burkina Faso
Authors: Heywood Emma , Fierens Marie , Yaméogo Lassané
Published: June 2023

This article identifies four new realities shaping the ways in which Burkinabe radio journalists deal with the insecurity threat that emerged in 2015 and the rise of terrorism in the region, all of which are related to digital technologies. First, digital technologies may symbolically strengthen the collective radio journalist-listener link; second, digital technologies are also tools that help journalists and audiences face the challenges of the new security situation; and third, digital technologies can represent risks to journalists and listeners. But this research also highlights, fourthly, that digital technologies can be inappropriate, and that the security context is creating a new modernity for former—more traditional—uses of radio. These realities indicate that digital technologies are integral to the appropriating and modernising process affecting traditional modes of listening and reception. Drawing on 37 interviews and three focus groups with Burkinabe community radio journalists in 2022, the article discusses existing literature in the Global North that highlights the significant disruptive effect of digital technology on radio both as a device, and in terms of broadcasting and listening practices, with it being suggested that traditional FM radio’s very survival is threatened. It finally shows that whilst digital technologies might sound a death knell for traditional broadcasting formats in the Global North, suggesting an ‘either/or’ situation, the situation differs in Burkina Faso, and therefore in other similarly affected conflict zones, where digital technologies reconceptualise the use of traditional radio without threatening it.
Moche deathscapes: performance, politics, and the creation of myth in Huaca La Capilla–San José de Moro (AD 650–740)
Authors: Muro Ynoñán Luis A.
Published: June 2023

This article examines Huaca La Capilla in the Jequetepeque Valley, Peru, as a dynamic locus within a mythologized Moche mortuary landscape. Huaca La Capilla is a Late Moche (AD 650–740) monumental adobe construction located within the elite Moche cemetery of San José de Moro. This huaca was subject to constant architectural renovations and the intricate design of its interior plazas and patios suggests the orchestration of symbolic and collective social gatherings. The striking resemblances between this huaca’s enclosures and those depicted in the Moche iconographic scene of the Burial Theme are intriguing, suggesting that Huaca La Capilla was the locus of body-centered performances that preceded the burial of Moche elite individuals. This study draws on the notion of deathscape, incorporating a multi-scalar approach to the study of landscapes of death and their diverse spatial and material practices. It contributes to broader discussions of how mortuary landscapes and their monuments were involved in the (re)production of myths of ancestrality and particular notions of time, history, and construction of the being that gave political legitimacy to ruling groups in times of crisis.
Neural extended Kalman filters for learning and predicting dynamics of structural systems
Authors: Liu Wei , Lai Zhilu , Bacsa Kiran , Chatzi Eleni
Published: June 2023

Accurate structural response prediction forms a main driver for structural health monitoring and control applications. This often requires the proposed model to adequately capture the underlying dynamics of complex structural systems. In this work, we utilize a learnable extended Kalman filter (EKF), named the neural extended Kalman filter (neural EKF) throughout this article, for learning the latent evolution dynamics of complex physical systems. The neural EKF is a generalized version of the conventional EKF, where the modeling of process dynamics and sensory observations can be parameterized by neural networks, therefore learned by end-to-end training. The method is implemented under the variational inference framework with the EKF conducting inference from sensing measurements. Typically, conventional variational inference models are parameterized by neural networks independent of the latent dynamics models. This characteristic makes the inference and reconstruction accuracy weakly based on the dynamics models and renders the associated training inadequate. In this work, we show that the structure imposed by the Neural EKF is beneficial to the learning process. We demonstrate the efficacy of the framework on both simulated and real-world structural monitoring datasets, with the results indicating significant predictive capabilities of the proposed scheme.
Conceptualizing an Omnichannel Approach for Social Marketing Under the Assumptions of the Transtheoretical Model of Change
Authors: Casais Beatriz
Published: June 2023

Background

Digital technologies are important touchpoints to stimulate marketing audiences. In the field of social marketing, digital marketing is considered important, but has been mainly used to raise awareness of social causes.

Focus of the Article

This paper considers the conceptualization of a model to conduct the conversion of behavior change, using both offline and digital marketing techniques.

Research Question

The paper seeks to investigate existing research on how digital marketing concepts can be integrated into a social marketing strategy.

Approach

The proposed conceptual model follows the process of the stages of change and considers the theoretical social marketing frameworks, applying the assumptions of citizens’ journey and the use of adequate digital and physical touchpoints to convert behavior.

Importance to the Social Marketing Field

The model offers theoretical advances for social marketing, going beyond the stage of raising awareness of social causes in social networks, and integrates the assumptions of an omnichannel strategy for social marketing interventions focused on behavior change conversion.

Methods

The paper follows the benchmark method of theories to build a conceptual model.

Results

The Omnichannel Social Marketing Model Through Stages of Change presents adequate digital and physical marketing techniques for the different stages of the social change process.

Recommendations for Research or Practice

The model can be used in future research to measure the effectiveness of social marketing, considering the inclusion of digital technologies and marketing techniques in social marketing strategy. The model also guides social marketing managers in using both digital and offline marketing techniques in an integrated and strategic manner for effective and long-term conversion of change. Future research can apply the model to social marketing cases to generalize its application.

Limitations

The conceptual model is designed in a bottom-up approach, based on the literature review.
The Role of Collectivism and Liberty in Parents’ Risk Perceptions, Anticipated Guilt, and Intentions to Vaccinate Their Children Against COVID-19
Authors: Wang Xiao , Xu Jie
Published: June 2023

Background

The Federal Drug Administration authorized Pfizer’s vaccine for emergency use among children aged 5–11 in the United States. Parents decide whether to vaccinate their children.

Focus of the Article

Guided by the health belief model, this research examined the factors associated with U.S. parents’ intentions to vaccinate their children aged 5–11 against COVID-19. It also investigated the role of liberty and collectivist values in parents’ intentions to vaccinate their children.

Methods

An online survey was conducted in November and December 2021, shortly after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for use among children ages 5–11.

Results

Structural equation modeling analysis of 571 parents’ responses showed that parents’ perceptions of their children’s susceptibility to COVID-19, perceived efficacy of the vaccine, and their anticipated guilt for not vaccinating their children predicted their intentions to vaccinate their children. In addition, collectivist value orientations had strong and positive associations with perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and anticipated guilt. In contrast, libertarian value orientations negatively predicted these three variables with moderate effect sizes.

Recommendations

For future vaccination campaigns (e.g., COVID-19, influenza, or another emergent infectious disease), social marketing practitioners should first understand the role of perceived risks of a disease and the benefits and side effects of the vaccines based on formative research. Individuals, social groups, or regions with high libertarian or low collectivist value orientations may require different strategies (e.g., getting vaccinated may help you live more freely).
Testicular Fibrous Pseudotumor: A Benign Disease That Can Be Treated With Testis-Sparing Surgery: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Liu Ming , Li Peng , Wang Jipeng , Bao Xingjun , Liu Chu , Liu Shuang
Published: June 2023

Testicular fibrous pseudotumor is a rare benign disease that is often misdiagnosed as testicular malignancy before surgery. We present a case of a 38-year-old male who had painless palpable masses in the left scrotum. Testicular tumor marker levels were within normal limits, and ultrasound revealed paratesticular masses. Intraoperative rapid diagnosis indicated a fibrous pseudotumor without malignancy. We successfully removed all the masses, along with the testis and a portion of the spermatic cord sheath, avoiding unnecessary orchiectomy.
The Use of a Constructivist Grounded Theory Method - A Good Fit for Social Work Research
Authors: Clarke Annaley , Healy Karen , Lynch Deborah , Featherstone Gerald
Published: June 2023

This paper explores the application of Constructivist Grounded Theory (C-GT) methodology for social work research. First, it argues that C-GT methodology is well aligned with social work as the two value the individual in the context of their environmental influences. Both also prioritise the importance of respecting and valuing the participant or individual, seeing their perspective as unique and significant. Finally, this research methodology’s systematic yet flexible guidelines align with social work ethics, which also focus on the importance of professional integrity. The paper then provides an example of a C-GT PhD study in relation to an area of social work practice, that is, stability in statutory kinship care in Queensland, Australia. The paper details the specific recruitment and sampling of participants, data collection and coding analysis examples from the PhD study. The examples evidence the relevance of C-GT methodology and its application for research in the area of social work practice, specifically statutory kinship care.
Stability analysis of TATWC based on UVA milling method
Authors: Liu Yuan , Zhao Li , Sun WenFang , Wang Qing
Published: June 2023

Difficult machining characteristics of titanium alloy materials and low rigidity characteristics of thin-walled component make Titanium Alloy Thin-Walled Component (TATWC) prone to chatter during machining, resulting in poor surface quality and other defects, which restricts the expansion and application of TATWC in the special industrial field. The appearance of Ultrasonic Vibration Assisted (UVA) milling method provides a new technology to overcome the processing problems of the TATWC. To analyze the stability of the TATWC processed by UVA milling method, first, by introducing a characterization function, a cutting force model of UVA milling method is established; The coefficients of cutting force between milling cutters and TATWC are solved through experiments. The model is verified by comparing the experimental and predicted values of cutting force; Secondly, the stability prediction model of UVA milling method based on full discrete method is established, and the effect of various process parameters on the stability of UVA milling method is researched. Finally, based on theoretical analysis, the modal characteristics of TATWC are measured through modal experiments. The feasibility of the stability prediction model of UVA milling method is verified by cutting TATWC with variable cutting depth.
Interleukin-33 promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of renal tubular epithelial cells via the NF-κB/Twist1 signalling pathway
Authors: Zhang Ziyu , Gu Wenqiang , Li Zepeng , Chen Xiao , Xu Wei , Li Xianwei
Published: June 2023

Objectives: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) is a pathogenic factor for renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is related to the occurrence and development of RIF, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we investigated whether IL-33 mediates the EMT of RTECs by activating the NF-κB/Twist1 signalling pathway. Methods: In vivo, the RIF animal model induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was established. The effects of exogenous IL-33 and anti-IL-33 antibodies were evaluated. In vitro, the EMT of RTECs was induced by IL-33. The inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) by the pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) and the knockdown of the suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2) by small interference RNA were used to observe whether IL-33 mediates the EMT of RTECs through the NF-κB/Twist1 signaling pathway. Results: In vivo, exogenous IL-33 significantly aggravated UUO-induced pathological damage and collagen deposition, down-regulated E-cadherin expression, and up-regulated α-smooth muscle actin and Vimentin expressions. Moreover, exogenous IL-33 increased the levels of phospho-IκB-α (p-IκB-α) and phospho-NF-κB p65 (p-NF-κB p65), NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation, and Twist1 nuclear expression. However, these effects were reversed by the anti-IL-33 antibody. In vitro , the increases in the levels of p-IκB-α, p-NF-κB p65, NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation, and Twist1 nuclear expression induced by IL-33 were inhibited by the knockdown of PDTC or ST2. IL-33-mediated EMT of RTECs was also significantly reversed. However, NF-κB inhibitor PDTC had no significant effect on ST2 expression. Conclusions: The IL-33/ST2 axis may up-regulate the expression of Twist1 through the NF-κB signalling pathway, thereby inducing the EMT of RTECs and leading to RIF.
Influence of cooling surface area on indoor air and surface heat transfer characteristics of a thermally activated building system in warm and humid zones: An Experimental study
Authors: Vivek T , Balaji K
Published: June 2023

Several alternatives have been introduced in recent years to enhance the thermal comfort levels within buildings. Thermally Activated Building Systems (TABS), one of the above alternatives, have gained interest because of the huge benefits this technology offers the building sector. This type of system consists of encapsulated pipes within the building structure to control the surface temperature. This study explores the thermal behavior of the cooling surface and fluctuations in indoor air temperature (IAT) of TABS under various cooling scenarios. Only limited number of investigations has been carried out to study the heat transfer behavior of TABS. Hence, the building indoor thermal properties such as air temperature, surface temperature and rate of heat transfer between the indoor air and inner surface of the TABS has been evaluated experimentally by enhancing the cooling surface area. Moreover the results were compared with the conventional building (no cooling provides). The thermal energy stored in the TABS is significantly removed by the increase in cooling surface area, resulting in a 2°C decrease in the average indoor air temperature. The average heat gain of all wall surfaces in the case of no cooling (WOC) ranges from −3 to 13 W/m2. The amount of heat gain on the walls was not significantly affected by only roof and floor cooling (R+F) activities. Moreover, it ranged from −2 to 24 W/m2 in all surface cooling (ASC) scenarios. As a result, there was additional surface cooling, which increased surface heat gain and indoor cooling capacity.
A proposal of urban coastal pattern for improving pedestrian wind comfort in coastal cities
Authors: Baş Hakan , Doğrusoy İlknur Türkseven , Reiter Sigrid
Published: June 2023

High-speed wind flow in urban areas poses a risk of pedestrian wind discomfort. Coastal cities, particularly, are at risk of wind discomfort as they are exposed to strong sea breezes. To improve the wind climate in coastal cities, we redesigned a standard coastal urban fabric by placing a new building at its center. Then we investigated the effect of critical variables, the central building’s location ( x/L ratio) and dimensions ( height, width, length) on wind conditions with a parametric design approach based on the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method validated by experimental data. We found that an optimum combination of x/L ratio and central building height ( H) can reduce the corner and double corner effect between two parallel buildings by up to 45% and minimize the risk of wind discomfort. The findings can be applied to newly-designed coastal settlements where wind shelter is required and can help urban policymakers and designers.
Worldwide Well-Being: Simulated Twins Reveal Genetic and (Hidden) Environmental Influences
Authors: Røysamb Espen , Moffitt Terrie E. , Caspi Avshalom , Ystrøm Eivind , Nes Ragnhild Bang
Published: June 2023

What are the major sources of worldwide variability in subjective well-being (SWB)? Twin and family studies of SWB have found substantial heritability and strong effects from unique environments but virtually no effects from shared environments. However, extant findings are not necessarily valid at the global level. Prior studies have examined within-countries variability but did not take into account mean differences across nations. In this article, we aim to estimate the effects of genetic factors, individual environmental exposures, and shared environments for the global population. We combine a set of knowns from national well-being studies (means and standard deviations) and behavioral-genetic studies (heritability) to model a scenario of twin studies across 157 countries. For each country, we simulate data for a set of twin pairs and pool the data into a global sample. We find a worldwide heritability of 31% to 32% for SWB. Individual environmental factors explain 46% to 52% of the variance (including measurement error), and shared environments account for 16% to 23% of the global variance in SWB. Worldwide, well-being is somewhat less heritable than within nations. In contrast to previous within-countries studies, we find a notable effect of shared environments. This effect is not limited to within families but operates at a national level.
Critical Diversity Literacy: A framework for multicultural citizenship education
Authors: Steyn Melissa , Vanyoro Kudzaiishe Peter
Published: June 2023

We propose the Critical Diversity Literacy (CDL) framework for citizenship education in contemporary heterogeneous societies. It encourages an anti-essentialist, power-conscious awareness of difference beyond notions of citizenship that have been constitutive of the nation and tend to normalise masculinity, patriarchy, heterosexuality, able-bodiedness and whiteness. Using intersectionality and decoloniality heuristics, we approach multicultural citizenship from the multiple axes of our identities as we inhabit the world more complexly than mere belonging to the nation-state. The framework synthesises insights from contemporary social theory into a usable scaffolding for diversity capacitation. The ten principles focus on intersectionality, social identities and positioning, historical awareness, diversity vocabulary, the coded nature of hegemonic power and personal engagement. Taken together, they promote an approach to multicultural citizenship that focuses on social justice and pushes us to recognise the lived experience of citizenship ‘from below’. The framework has proved useful in designing curricula and interventions in different contexts and sectors and can be utilised to develop age-appropriate materials in schools.
The different impact of attention, movement, and sensory information on body metric representation
Authors: Caggiano Pietro , Cocchini Gianna , Stefano Danila De , Romano Daniele
Published: June 2023

A growing body of research investigating the relationship between body representation and tool-use has shown that body representation is highly malleable. The nature of the body representation does not consist only of sensory attributes but also of motor action–oriented qualities, which may modulate the subjective experience of our own body. However, how these multisensory factors and integrations may specifically guide and constrain body reorientation’s plasticity has been under-investigated. In this study, we used a forearm bisection task to selectively investigate the contribution of motor, sensory, and attentional aspects in guiding body representation malleability. Results show that the perceived forearm midpoint deviates from the real one. This shift is further modulated by a motor task but not by a sensory task, whereas the attentional task generates more uncertain results. Our findings provide novel insight into the individual role of movement, somatosensation, and attention in modulating body metric representation.
Lifestyle or pharmacotherapy in cardio-metabolic disease prevention
Authors: Seidu Borenyi S. , Osman Hanad , Seidu Samuel
Published: June 2023

Cardio-metabolic diseases are the leading causes of premature death worldwide. The conditions are together some of the most prevalent and severe multimorbidities and include conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease and stroke. People with these conditions are at a higher risk of all-cause death and have a reduction in life expectancy when compared to patients without cardio-metabolic disorders. As a result of the increasing prevalence and impact of cardio-metabolic multimorbidity on disability, no healthcare system can ‘treat’ its way out of this pandemic. ‘Treating our way out’ requires the use of multiple medications which can lead to improper prescribing, insufficient compliance, overdosing or underdosing, improper drug choice, insufficient monitoring, unfavourable drug effects, and drug interactions and inappropriate wastes and costs. Therefore, individuals living with these conditions should be empowered to adopt lifestyle changes that foster independent living with their conditions. Adopting these healthy lifestyles such as smoking cessation, improving dietary habits, sleep hygiene and physical activity is a suitable adjunctive measure if not an alternative to polypharmacy in cardio-metabolic multimorbidity.
Enhanced effects of antagomiR-3074-3p-conjugated PEI-AuNPs on the odontogenic differentiation by targeting FKBP9
Authors: Jiang Tao , Miao Shenghong , Shen Jingjie , Song Wenjing , Tan Shenglong , Ma Dandan
Published: June 2023

The odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), which is vital for tooth regeneration, was regulated by various functional molecules. In recent years, a growing body of research has shown that miRNAs play a crucial role in the odontogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). However, the mechanisms by which miRNAs regulated odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs remained unclear, and the application of miRNAs in reparative dentin formation in vivo was also rare. In this study, we first discovered that miR-3074-3p had an inhibitory effect on odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs and antagomiR-3074-3p-conjugated PEI-AuNPs effectively promoted odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs in vitro. AntagomiR-3074-3p-conjugated PEI-AuNPs was further applied to the rat pulp-capping model and showed the increased formation of restorative dentin. In addition, the results of lentivirus transfection in vitro suggested that FKBP9 acted as the key target of miR-3074-3p in regulating the odontogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. These findings might provide a new strategy and candidate target for dentin restoration and tooth regeneration.
Integrated Moving on After Breast Cancer and Culturally Adapted Cognitive Behavior Therapy intervention for depression and anxiety among Pakistani women with breast cancer: Protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Husain Nusrat , Kiran Tayyeba , Chaudhry Imran B , Sultan Sarwat , Dawood Saima , Lunat Farah , Nizami Asad , Shanahan Lisa , Qureshi Afshan , Un Nisa Zaib , Husain Mina , Shakoor Suleman , Alvi Mohsin H , Zadeh Zainab , Memon Rakhshi , Chaudhry Nasim
Published: June 2023

Objective:

The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer is associated with significant distress that has huge impact on survivors’ quality of life. The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of an integrated intervention “Moving on After Breast Cancer (ABC) Plus culturally adapted Cognitive Behavior Therapy” (Moving on ABC Plus).

Method:

This is a randomized controlled trial that aims to recruit 354 breast cancer survivors from the inpatient and outpatient oncology departments in public and private hospitals in Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi in Pakistan. Patients scoring 10 or above on either the Patient Health Questionnaire—9 and/or the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) will be recruited. Baseline assessments will include Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Breast; EuroQol-5D; Multidimensional Scale for Perceived Social Support; Intrusive Thoughts Scale; and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Participants randomized into intervention arm, Moving on ABC Plus, will receive 12 individual therapy sessions over 4 months. Follow-up will be completed at 4- and 6-month post-randomization, using all baseline instruments along with the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8). We will also explore the participants’, their family members’, and the therapists’ experiences of the trial and intervention.

Results:

We will be assessing the effectiveness of intervention in reducing depression and anxiety in breast cancer survivors as a primary outcome of the trial. The secondary outcomes will include effectiveness of intervention in terms of reduction in intrusive thoughts and improvement in health-related quality of life, self-esteem, and perceived social support.

Conclusion:

The results of the study will inform the design of a future larger randomized control trial with long-term follow-up.
Nasopharyngeal abscess causing inspiratory dyspnoea in a domestic cat
Authors: Slater Annie , del Solar Raquel , Raj Jennifer
Published: June 2023

Case summary

An 11-month-old female domestic shorthair cat presented with a 24 h history of inspiratory dyspnoea, abnormal upper respiratory tract sounds, gagging, retching and making exaggerated swallowing motions. Retroflexed nasopharyngoscopy revealed a large, right-sided nasopharyngeal mass that was seen to exude purulent material and a possible small foreign body when pressure was applied with forceps. Thorough expression of the mass alleviated clinical signs. Cytology revealed septic neutrophilic inflammation, and a Pasteurella species with no noted antimicrobial resistance was cultured. The cat was discharged with oral antibiotics and analgesia and made a full recovery, with no recurrence of clinical signs at the 6-month follow-up.

Relevance and novel information

Abscess formation in the nasopharyngeal region has not been previously reported in cats, to the authors’ knowledge. The cause of the abscess was suspected to be a foreign body, but other aetiologies could not be fully excluded. This case demonstrates that nasopharyngeal abscesses are a rare but potentially significant differential diagnosis for upper respiratory tract obstruction in cats.
A pilot case series for concurrent validation of inertial measurement units to motion capture in individuals who use unilateral lower-limb prostheses
Authors: Finco MG , Patterson Rita M , Moudy Sarah C
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Inertial measurement units (IMUs) may be viable options to collect gait data in clinics. This study compared IMU to motion capture data in individuals who use unilateral lower-limb prostheses.

Methods

Participants walked with lower-body IMUs and reflective markers in a motion analysis space. Sagittal plane hip, knee, and ankle waveforms were extracted for the entire gait cycle. Discrete points of peak flexion, peak extension, and range of motion were extracted from the waveforms. Stance times were also extracted to assess the IMU software’s accuracy at detecting gait events. IMU and motion capture-derived data were compared using absolute differences and root mean square error (RMSE).

Results

Five individuals ( n = 3 transtibial; n = 2 transfemoral) participated. IMU prosthetic limb data was similar to motion capture (RMSE: waveform ≤4.65°; discrete point ≤9.04°; stance ≤0.03s). However, one transfemoral participant had larger differences at the microprocessor knee joint (RMSE: waveform ≤15.64°; discrete ≤29.21°) from IMU magnetometer interference. Intact limbs tended to have minimal differences between IMU and motion capture data (RMSE: waveform ≤6.33°; discrete ≤9.87°; stance ≤0.04s).

Conclusion

Findings from this pilot study suggest IMUs have the potential to collect data similar to motion capture systems in sagittal plane kinematics and stance time.