bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Integrated CBL and PBL Teaching with Standardized Patients for Internal Medicine Education
Authors: Shao Pengfei , Ran Junpeng , Long Qin , Li Wei 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of combining Case-Based Learning (CBL) utilizing Standardized Patients with Problem-Based Learning (PBL) in enhancing clinical education for internal medicine students.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was performed involving 240 internal medicine students trained in our department between September 2021 and June 2023.Initially, students were divided into a traditional teaching group (n = 120) and a combined PBL-CBL group (n = 120). Baseline calculations revealed significant gender differences between the two groups. Subsequently, propensity score matching was employed to create a matched traditional teaching group (n = 93) and a PBL-CBL combined group (n = 120). Independent sample t-tests were utilized to compare the teaching performance between the two groups.
Results
Post propensity score matching, the integrated PBL-CBL group demonstrated significant enhancements (p < 0.05) across various metrics, including end-of-course assessment scores, skill assessments, dOPS scores, theoretical knowledge, practical skills, doctor-patient communication, self-directed learning, perceived learning burden, and overall competence.
Conclusion
Integrating CBL and PBL teaching methods with Standardized Patients proves to be an effective approach for enhancing the overall performance and clinical skills of medical students and resident physicians.
Proteogenomic analysis reveals Arp 2/3 complex as a common molecular mechanism in high risk pancreatic cysts and pancreatic cancer
Authors: Mahmud AKM Firoj , Aly Dina Gamaleldin Mansour , Zhao Yelin , Benson Mikael , Smelik Martin , Sysoev Oleg , Wang Hui , Li Xinxiu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Pancreatic cysts, particularly intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), pose a potential risk for progressing to pancreatic cancer (PC). This study investigates the genetic architecture of benign pancreatic cysts and its potential connection to PC using genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The discovery GWAS identified significant genetic variants associated with benign cysts, specifically the rs142409042 variant near the OPCML gene. A pairwise GWAS comparing PC to benign cysts revealed the rs7190458 variant near the BCAR1 and CTRB1 genes. Further analysis with identified GWAS genes highlighted the Actin Related Protein (Arp) 2/3 complex as a potentially important molecular mechanism connecting benign cysts and PC. The Arp2/3 complex-associated genes were significantly upregulated in PC, suggesting their role in the malignant transformation of pancreatic cysts. Differential expression of these genes was observed across various cell types in PC, indicating their involvement in the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggest that the Arp2/3 complex-associated genes can serve as potential biomarkers for predicting the malignant transformation of pancreatic cysts, opening new avenues for targeted therapies and early detection strategies.
The m6A reader IGF2BP3 promotes LIHC progression by enhancing MCM10 stability
Authors: Zhao Lianwu , Huang Hongyan , Luo Linfei , Huang Zixiang , Wu Zhengqiang , Wang Fenfen , Wen Zhili 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Abnormal N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications were associated with the occurrence, development, and metastasis of cancer. However, the functions and mechanisms of m6A regulators in cancer remained largely elusive and should be explored. Here, we identified that IGF2BP3 was specifically overexpressed and associated with poor prognosis in LIHC. Importantly, IGF2BP3 promoted liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) cell progression in an m6A-dependent manner, IGF2BP3 silencing significantly inhibited proliferation and migratory ability of tumor cells in vitro. Mechanistically, IGF2BP3 interacted with minichromosomal maintenance complex component (MCM10) mRNAs to prolong stability of m6A-modified RNA. Therefore, our findings indicated that m6A reader IGF2BP3 contributed to tumorigenesis and poor prognosis, providing a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for LIHC.
Catechin promotes endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated gastric cancer cell apoptosis via NOX4-induced reactive oxygen species
Authors: Jiang Jun , Li Deming , Li Fan , Li Huanqing , Zhang Xiaohong , Feng Li 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Catechin, a polyphenolic compound in various foods and beverages, shows strong anticancer effects against gastric cancer (GC) cells. This study explored the effect of Catechin on GC cell apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.
Methods
GC cells were treated with different catechin concentrations to assess effects on cell viability, LDH release, invasion, migration, apoptosis, intracellular calcium (Ca²⁺), ER stress markers, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). siRNA knockdown targeted GRP78, PERK, CHOP, and NOX4 to examine their roles in catechin-induced ER stress and apoptosis.
Results
Catechin treatment significantly reduced GC cell viability, increased LDH release, and induced apoptosis dose-dependently. Catechins elevated intracellular Ca²⁺ and ER stress markers. Co-treatment with thapsigargin (TG) intensified these effects, implicating ER stress in apoptosis. Knocking down GRP78, PERK, and CHOP mitigated catechin-induced apoptosis and restored viability. Additionally, catechins raised ROS levels, while co-treatment with Diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) or N-acetylcysteine (NAC) lowered ROS, cell damage, and ER stress markers. NOX4 knockdown countered catechin-induced viability loss and upregulated CHOP and cleaved caspase-3.
Conclusion
Catechin induce apoptosis in GC cells through ER stress and ROS generation. Key mediators include GRP78, PERK, CHOP, and NOX4, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for enhancing catechin efficacy in GC treatment.
A Matrix Product State Model for SimultaneousClassification and Generation
Authors: Mossi Alex , Flouris Kyriakos , Zunkovic Bojan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Quantum machine learning (QML) is a rapidly expanding field that merges the principles of quantum computing with the techniques of machine learning. One of the powerful mathematical frameworks in this domain is tensor networks. These networks are used to approximate high-order tensors by contracting tensors with lower ranks. Originally developed for simulating quantum systems, tensor networks have become integral to quantum computing and, by extension, to QML. Their ability to efficiently represent and manipulate complex, high-dimensional data makes them suitable for various machine learning tasks within the quantum realm. Here, we present a matrix product state (MPS) model, where the MPS functions as both a classifier and a generator. The dual functionality of this novel MPS model permits a strategy that enhances the traditional training of supervised MPS models. This framework is inspired by generative adversarial networks and is geared towards generating more realistic samples by reducing outliers. Additionally, our contributions offer insights into the mechanics of tensor network methods for generation tasks. Specifically, we discuss alternative embedding functions and a new sampling method from non-normalized MPSs.
Pharmacy Students' Insights on Assessment Tools and Their Predictive Value in Evaluating Clinical Competencies
Authors: Netere Adeladlew Kassie , Sendekie Ashenafi Kibret , Chanie Gashaw Sisay , Belachew Eyayaw Ashete 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
The assessment of clinical competency models is tailored to evaluate the academic performance and organization capabilities and whether the purpose is formative or summative. Competency-based curriculum for pharmacy students, focusing on core competencies with formative and summative evaluations. This study aimed to explore pharmacy students’ insights on assessment tools and the predictive value in evaluating clinical competencies at the University of Gondar.
Method
A cross-sectional survey was conducted to explore the students' attitudes and insights towards assessment approaches in pharmacy education. Comparative descriptive was used in describing students' perception towards the assessment approaches and instruments utilized in the modularized competency-based curriculum for pharmacy students. A comparative repeated measure was conducted across multiple assessment instruments to evaluate perceived difficulty, fairness, degree of learning and preferred frequency of use, using the Friedman test.
Result
A total of 135 students approached, and 118 participated in this study (response rate 87.4%). About 64%) were regular and fifth-year clerkship undergraduate students. The formative assessment approach was perceived to enhance confidence (59%) and motivation to study (50%). Conversely, more than half (53%) of students reported that question-spotting was their primary strategy for preparing for written exams. Additionally, more than 47% believed that study materials required for written exams were excessive and they felt that module grades often overly rely on single, one-time written exams. Also, many students (68%) agreed with the utilization and objectivity of OSCE in assessing clinical competencies, they rated it as difficult to perform each OSCE.
Conclusion
This survey revealed students prefer formative assessments for improving performance, motivation, and confidence, while summative assessments determine grades through one-time exams. The OSCE is effective yet challenging for clinical competency assessment, guiding the selection of assessment methods and highlighting potential difficulties and acceptability of assessment approaches.
Modeling and Experimental Study of the Force and Surface Topography in Cylindrical Grinding of GH4169
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Zhang Quanli , Wang Bao , Ding Wenfeng , Du Kai , Wang Yongfei 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

GH4169 superalloy is an outstanding material widely used in aerospace, and precision grinding is widely applied to machine GH4169 superalloy, where the grinding force plays essential role on the ground surface quality, and the achieved surface topography. In this paper, the material removal mechanism under different machining parameters was analyzed in cylindrical grinding of GH4169 superalloy. The interaction process between abrasive grain and workpiece material is investigated to establish the simulation model of material removed based on the kinematics. The random wheel topography is constructed statistically using the probability density function that characterizes the distribution of the grains. The simulated grinding force and surface topography are agreement with the experimental results, where both the grinding force and surface roughness increased with decreasing grinding speed, as well as growing feed rate and grinding depth. The simulation model and calculation results could provide certain theoretical basis to explore the material removal mechanisms and improve the achieved surface quality in cylindrical grinding of GH4169 superalloy.
Improving Detectability of Illegal Fishing Activities Across Supply Chains
Authors: Oyanedel Rodrigo , Gelcich Stefan , Milner-Gulland E. J. , Wilcox Chris 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Improving detectability (i.e., enforcers’ capacity to detect illegal fishing activities) is crucial for fisheries management, food security and livelihoods. Identifying factors associated with higher probabilities of illegal activities and their detection across supply chains are necessary for effective interventions. Here, we developed a Bayesian Hierarchical Model to assess the detectability of illegal fishing activities. We use a large fisheries enforcement dataset from Chile covering all supply chain actors (e.g., fishers, traders, restaurants). Our model allowed evaluation of determinants of detectability and probability of violation across supply chain actors, species, regulations and effort predictors. Our results show an overall detectability rate of illegal fishing activities at 7%, with this rate varying significantly across supply chain actors. Notably, those positioned higher in the supply chain, such as processors and restaurants, which are also those receiving less enforcement effort, exhibit markedly higher detection rates. This study provides relevant management insights to improve detectability of infringements of fisheries regulations in Chile and more broadly. Our approach complements recent technological advances (e.g., satellite monitoring), and can support improved targeting of enforcement across supply chains, particularly in situations where capacity exists, but budgets are constrained. Improving detectability of rules violations is a key component of reducing illegal fishing and promoting compliance.
Mobile money, Entrepreneurship, and Informality
Authors: Malkova Alina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This paper investigates the impact of mobile money access on informal businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. While mobile money can improve business performance and facilitate transactions, it may also enable labor informality. I examine this trade-off by studying solo entrepreneurs and small business owners in Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda between 2013–2015. Leveraging changes in cellular coverage as a natural experiment, I employ a fuzzy spatial regression discontinuity design to analyze the impact of mobile money on informality rates. Findings suggest that living within GSM coverage areas increases the formalization of employment for entrepreneurs in Kenya and Tanzania but not necessarily in Nigeria. The paper also explores the broader effects of mobile money access. Mobile money is associated with lower poverty levels, particularly for informal entrepreneurs, and promotes higher formalization rates for previously unbanked entrepreneurs. Additionally, the study reveals network effects, where neighbors’ mobile money adoption influences individual entrepreneurs’ formalization decisions.
JEL codes: G21, O17, G51, J62
Influence of Soft Surface Soil on Site Seismic Response in Tianjin Area
Authors: Cao Ying , Gao Wuping , Wang Zhisheng , Yan Chengguo , Yang Fei 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Soft soil is a prevalent type of special soil, boasting mechanical characteristics like low strength, significant deformation, and heightened sensitivity. Engineering-wise, it often poses hazards such as settlement and uneven subsidence when subjected to seismic forces. Moreover, the substantial impact of soft soil on seismic events has been widely recognized. Investigations into the seismic response characteristics of soft soil primarily concentrate on two key aspects: the presence of soft soil in the form of interlayers and soft soil sites. By conducting a statistical analysis of dynamic parameters pertaining to soft soil in the Tianjin area, this study provides recommended values for such parameters in the area. Subsequently, ten distinct models of soft soil strata with varying layer thickness are established to examine the influence of soft surface soil’s thickness on characteristic parameters of site ground response spectra. This research furnishes valuable insights for seismic design within the study area.
Analysis of the structure and properties of Ni-based alloys on the surface of 42CrMo steel with plasma cladding
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Li Chao , Cao Xiuquan , He Yao , Wang Lin , Li Xinyang 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

As a kind of structural alloy steel, 42CrMo steel is widely used in a variety of mechanical components, especially in high-load conditions. The surface of 42CrMo steel is very unlikely to work properly in lasting bad conditions. The failure is mostly because the steel wears. And sometimes the steel cracks or even breaks. Since it is difficult to repair the steel once it fails, this paper proposes a surface repair method for 42CrMo steel based on plasma cladding technology. Firstly, using plasma cladding technology, Ni-based cladded layers were prepared on the surface of 42CrMo steel. Then, the microstructure, hardness and wear of the cladded layers were observed through specialized equipment. Finally, the effect of process parameters on the temperature of the molten pool was analyzed with the simulation software. It has been found out that the substrate is mainly compose of ferrite and pearlite and the zone affected by heat is mainly composed of coarse grains and strip grains. It has also been found that the cladded layer is composed of-Ni and-(Fe,Ni) phases, which results in a significant increase of hardness, namely from 282 HV0.2 to 516 HV0.2. The average friction coefficients of the substrate and the cladded layer are 0.910 and 0.569, respectively. Correspondingly, the wear amounts are 5.39E-6 mm3·N-1·m-1 and 2.24E-6 mm3·N-1·m-1, and the wear volumes are 3.88E-3 mm3 and 1.61E-3 mm3. This means that the wear resistance of the cladded layer is higher than that of the substrate. With the help of analysis of simulation, it is concluded that the width and depth of the molten pool of the cladded layer grows when the current grows. The width and depth of the molten pool of the cladded layer decreases when the speed gets higher.
Capability of chatbots powered by large language models to support the screening process of scoping reviews: a feasibility study
Authors: Nordmann Kim , Schaller Michael , Sauter Stefanie , Fischer Florian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The recent surge in publications increases the screening time required to maintain up-to-date and high-quality literature reviews. One of the most time-consuming phases is the screening of titles and abstracts. With the support of machine learning tools, this process has been semi-automated for systematic reviews, with limited success for scoping reviews. ChatGPT, a large language model, might support scoping review screening with its ability to identify key concepts and themes within texts. We hypothesise that ChatGPT’s performance in abstract screening surpasses that of the semi-automated tool Rayyan, increasing efficiency at acceptable costs while maintaining a low type II error. In our retrospective analysis, ChatGPT 4.0 decided upon 15 306 abstracts, vastly outperforming Rayyan. ChatGPT demonstrated high levels of accuracy (68%), specificity (67%) and sensitivity (88–89%) and a negative predictive value of 99% when compared to human researchers’ decisions. The workload savings were at 64% reasonable costs. Despite the promising results, human oversight remains paramount, as ChatGPT’s decisions resulted in a 11% false negative rate. A hybrid screening approach combining human raters and ChatGPT might ensure accuracy and quality while enhancing efficiency. Further research on ChatGPT’s parameters, the prompts and screening scenarios is necessary in order to validate these results and to develop a standardised approach.
Video Game Addiction, Anxiety, and the Moderating Role of Sociodemographic Factors in Peruvian Adolescents
Authors: Dávila-Arenas José Alfredo , Ramos-Cuzque Roberto Carlos , Reyes-Perez Moises David , Acosta-Enriquez Benicio Gonzalo , Facho-Cornejo Jhoselit Lisset , Arbulu-Castillo Julie Catherine , Fernández-Altamirano Antony Esmit Franco , Cabanillas-Palomino Roxana , Piedra Dina Calonge Calonge De la 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background Video game addiction and anxiety are growing concerns among adolescents worldwide, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between video game addiction and anxiety in Peruvian adolescent students, considering the moderating role of sociodemographic factors. Method The study employed a quantitative, correlational, cross-sectional approach with a sample of 202 students aged 12 to 17 years. The TDV Dependence Test and the Lima Anxiety Scale were used to measure video game addiction and anxiety, respectively. Data analysis included normality tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, Spearman's rho correlation, and Fisher's confidence intervals. Results The findings revealed a highly significant relationship between video game addiction and anxiety (p < 0.01). However, the confidence intervals suggested that this relationship might be due to chance or may not truly exist in the studied population. High levels of video game addiction (28.2% very high, 13.9% high) and anxiety (24.8% severe, 20.3% moderate) were identified, with males being more affected by addiction and females by anxiety. Abstinence was significantly related to general anxiety and social phobia, while abuse and tolerance were related to agoraphobia. Sociodemographic factors did not moderate the relationship between video game addiction and anxiety (p > 0.05). Conclusion This study provides new evidence on the relationship between video game addiction and anxiety in Peruvian adolescents, highlighting the importance of analyzing confidence intervals for accurate interpretation. The significant relationships found between specific dimensions of video game addiction and anxiety could be theoretically explained by neurobiological, cognitive, and focused internet use models. Preventative and intervention strategies differentiated by gender are recommended to manage abstinence, abuse, tolerance, and associated anxious symptoms in adolescents.
Exosomal miR-146a-5p Derived from HSCs Accelerates Sepsis-induced Liver Injury by Suppressing KLF-4
Authors: Sheng Ziyi , Song Hua , Gao Xianzhi , Shu Bian , You Yu , Liu Zuojin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aims to investigate whether and how LPS-activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) could regulate macrophage activity, as well as to explore the impact of microRNA(miRNA) in exosomes from HSCs in this process.
Methods
Mice subjected to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or Cecal Ligation and Puncture (CLP) were used to explore sepsis-induced liver injury. Liver injury was evaluated by HE staining, and AST and ALT levels were measured. LPS-Exo or N-LPS-Exo from HSCs were added to hepatic macrophages, and the expression of iNOS, IL-1β, and TNF-α was detected by Western Blotting. miRNA microarray analysis and PCR were used to evaluate differentially expressed miRNAs between LPS-Exo and N-LPS-Exo. Target genes were screened using the TargetScan database and verified by luciferase assays and WB. Inflammation and macrophage activity were observed in vivo by HE and CD86 staining in mice injected with PKH67-labeled LPS-Exo or N-LPS-Exo.
Results
Sepsis-related liver injury activates hepatic stellate cells, which regulate macrophage activity through exosomes. Specifically, exosomal miR-146a-5p secreted by hepatic stellate cells targets KLF-4, regulating the macrophage inflammatory response via the JNK signaling pathway.
Conclusion
Exosomes containing miRNA-146a-5p released from HSCs following LPS treatment may increase macrophage sensitivity to LPS and trigger an inflammatory response. Exosomal miR-146a-5p derived from HSCs accelerates sepsis-induced liver injury by suppressing KLF-4 expression.