bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigation into the optoelectrowetting droplet transport mechanism
Authors: Wu Tao , Wang Tianyi , He Xiaohan , Zhao Juncheng , Yan Hong , Zhou Teng , Shi Liuyong 
Published: March 2024

AbstractTo explore the optoelectronic wetting droplet transport mechanism, a transient numerical model of optoelectrowetting (OEW) under the coupling of flow and electric fields is established. The study investigates the impact of externally applied voltage, dielectric constant of the dielectric layer, and interfacial tension between the two phases on the dynamic behavior of droplets during transport. The proposed model employs an improved Young's equation to calculate the instantaneous voltage and contact angle of the droplet on the dielectric layer. Results indicate that, under the influence of OEW, significant variations in the interface contact angle of droplets occur in bright and dark regions, inducing droplet movement. Moreover, the dynamic behavior of droplet transport is closely associated with various parameters, including externally applied voltage, dielectric layer material, and interfacial tension between the two phases, all of which impact the contact angle and, consequently, the transport process. By summarizing the influence patterns of the three key parameters studied, the optimization of droplet transport performance is achieved. The study employs two‐dimensional simulation models to emulate the droplet motion under the influence of the electric field, investigating the OEW droplet transport mechanism. The continuous movement of droplets involves three stages: initial wetting, continuous transport, and reaching a steady position. The findings contribute theoretical support for the efficient design of digital microfluidic devices for OEW droplet movement and the selection of key parameters for droplet manipulation.
Virtual‐reality system for elevator maintenance education: Design, implementation and evaluation
Authors: Zhong MingHui , Zhou YePing 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWith the rapid development of information technology, new educational models using virtual reality technology have received widespread attention from relevant researchers. In the field of vocational education, vocational colleges and training institutions can effectively mobilize students' learning initiative and improve their learning efficiency by using virtual reality technology. This study details the development process and system evaluation of a bespoke virtual reality system that offers a solution to the issues of uncertainty regarding hazards, high teaching expenses, and spatial constraints inherent in the practical training of elevator maintenance. By establishing a virtual environment that is highly reproducible and designing abundant interaction methods, this system facilitates students in attaining mastery over the structural make‐up of elevators, the principles of their operation, and the techniques involved in calibrating elevator governors. The system underwent testing by multiple users, and the satisfaction level of the system was ascertained through a questionnaire study, while the effectiveness of the system was evaluated using independent samples t test for data statistics concerning students' performance. The results of the study indicate that the system gained widespread praise among users, and it notably enhanced the students' learning drive, practical abilities, and on‐site adaptability.
Differential modulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR activity by EGFR inhibitors: A rationale for co‐targeting EGFR and PI3K in cisplatin‐resistant HNSCC
Authors: Liao Jipei , Yang Zejia , Azarbarzin Shirin , Cullen Kevin J. , Dan Hancai 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPurposeTo find a new strategy to treat cisplatin‐resistant head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), we investigated the effects of EGFR inhibitors on the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and determined the efficacy of EGFR inhibitors in combination with PI3K inhibitors to suppress cell proliferation in cisplatin‐resistant‐HNSCC.MethodsThe cisplatin‐resistant HNSCC cell lines were treated with four FDA approved EGFR inhibitors, which included Gefitinb or Erlotinib alone, or in combination with the pan‐PI3K inhibitor, BKM120. Phosphorylation and total protein levels of cells were assessed by Western blot analysis. Cell proliferation was examined by MTS assay. Apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry.ResultsCisplatin‐resistant HNSCC cells were also resistant to EGFR inhibitors. However, a combination of EGFR inhibitors with PI3K inhibitor BKM120 dramatically improved the efficacy of EGFR inhibitors to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Furthermore, treatment with EGFR inhibitors differentially affected the phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR, which included partial inhibition, no inhibition, and induction. A combination of EGFR inhibitors and BKM120 completely blocked phosphorylation of EGFR, Akt, and S6K (an mTOR target).ConclusionOur data provided a rationale for EGFR inhibitors in combination with PI3K inhibitors to treat cisplatin‐resistant HNSCC.
Should we trust cross‐sectional multiplier estimates?
Authors: Canova Fabio 
Published: March 2024

SummaryI examine the properties of cross‐sectional estimators of multipliers, elasticities, or pass‐throughs when a conventional spatial macroeconomic specification generates the data. A number of important biases plague standard estimates; the most relevant one occurs when the units display heterogeneous dynamics. Methods that work well in this situation are suggested. An experimental setting shows the magnitude of the biases cross‐sectional estimators display. Average estimates of local fiscal multipliers in the US states are compared and contrasted.
Longitudinal volumetric analysis of gray matter atrophy in metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Al‐Saady Murtadha L. , Galabova Hristina , Schoenmakers Daphne H. , Beerepoot Shanice , Lindemans Caroline , van Hasselt Peter M. , van der Knaap Marjo S. , Wolf Nicole I. , Pouwels Petra J. W. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractMetachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is an inherited lysosomal storage disorder characterized by arylsulfatase A (ASA) deficiency, leading to sulfatide accumulation and myelin degeneration in the central nervous system. While primarily considered a white matter (WM) disease, gray matter (GM) is also affected in MLD, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may have limited effect on GM atrophy. We cross‐sectionally and longitudinally studied GM volumes using volumetric MRI in a cohort of 36 (late‐infantile, juvenile and adult type) MLD patients containing untreated and HSCT treated subjects. Cerebrum, cortical GM, (total) CSF, cerebellum, deep gray matter (DGM) (excluding thalamus) and thalamus volumes were analyzed. Longitudinal correlations with measures of cognitive and motor functioning were assessed. Cross‐sectionally, juvenile and adult type patients (infantiles excluded based on limited numbers) were compared with controls at earliest scan, before possible treatment. Patients had lower cerebrum, cortical GM, DGM and thalamus volumes. Differences were most pronounced for adult type patients. Longitudinal analyses showed substantial and progressive atrophy of all regions and increase of CSF in untreated patients. Similar, albeit less pronounced, effects were seen in treated patients for cerebrum, cortical GM, CSF and thalamus volumes. Deterioration in motor performance (all patients) was related to atrophy, and increase of CSF, in all regions. Cognitive functioning (data available for treated patients) was related to cerebral, cortical GM and thalamus atrophy; and to CSF increase. Our findings illustrate the importance of recognizing GM pathology as a potentially substantial, clinically relevant part of MLD, apparently less amenable to treatment.
Induction immunochemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy for unresectable locally advanced non‐small cell lung cancer: a multi‐institutional retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Leilei , Cheng Bo , Sun Xiaojiang , Zhang Zhenshan , Kang Jingjing , Chen Yun , Xu Qinghua , Yang Shuangyan , Yan Yujie , Ren Shengxiang , Zhou Caicun , Xu Yaping 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of induction immunochemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for unresectable locally advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (LA‐NSCLC). We identified unresectable stage III NSCLC patients who received induction immunochemotherapy. Overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were the primary endpoints. From February 2019 to August 2022, 158 patients were enrolled. Following the completion of induction immunochemotherapy, the objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 52.5% and 83.5%, respectively. The ORR of CRT was 73.5%, representing 68.4% of the total cohort. The median PFS was 17.8 months, and the median OS was 41.9 months, significantly higher than in patients who received CRT alone (p < 0.001). Patients with concurrent CRT demonstrated markedly improved PFS (p = 0.012) and OS (p = 0.017) than those undergoing sequential CRT. Additionally, those with a programmed‐death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression of 50% or higher showed significantly elevated ORRs (72.2% vs. 47.2%, p = 0.011) and superior OS (median 44.8 vs. 28.6 months, p = 0.004) compared to patients with PD‐L1 expression below 50%. Hematologic toxicities were the primary severe adverse events (grade ≥ 3) encountered, with no unforeseen treatment‐related toxicities. Thus, induction immunochemotherapy followed by definitive CRT demonstrated encouraging efficacy and tolerable toxicities for unresectable LA‐NSCLC.
Bidirectional Interplay between Deep Brain Stimulation and Cognition in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sisodia Vibuthi , Malekzadeh Arjan , Verwijk Esmée , Schuurman P. Richard , de Bie Rob M.A. , Swinnen Bart E.K.S. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundDeep brain stimulation (DBS) is efficacious for treating motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD).ObjectivesThe aim is to evaluate the evidence regarding DBS effectiveness after postoperative cognitive deterioration, the impact of preoperative cognition on DBS effectiveness, and the impact of DBS on cognition.MethodsLiterature searches were performed on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL (Cochrane library). Primary outcomes were OFF‐drug Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale Part III score and cognitive test scores.ResultsDBS effectiveness did not differ in patients with postoperative declining compared to stable cognition (n = 5 studies). Preoperative cognition did not influence DBS effectiveness (n = 1 study). DBS moderately decreased verbal fluency compared to the best medical treatment (n = 24 studies), which may be transient.ConclusionDBS motor effectiveness in PD does not appear to be influenced by cognition. DBS in PD seems cognitively safe, except for a moderate decline in verbal fluency. Further research is warranted. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Analytical solution for one‐dimensional thaw consolidation model with double moving boundaries
Authors: Han Tao , Zhou Yang , Zhao Guang‐si , Lu Meng‐meng 
Published: March 2024

AbstractA one‐dimensional thaw consolidation model considering the density change from pore ice to pore water is established, and the model describes a special type of moving boundary problem with double moving boundaries. An analytical solution for the model under a time‐varying external load is developed using certain form of superposition principle and the similarity type of general solution. Some known solutions in literature can be recovered as special cases of the analytical solution once the density change from pore ice to pore water is neglected. If the thawing front was to cease at certain time, consolidation of thawed soil in a fixed region is then encountered, and an analytical solution for the post‐thawing consolidation problem is developed using the Green's function method. Computational examples of the analytical solutions are presented. First, comparison between our model and classical model of Morgenstern and Nixon (MN model) is conducted, showing the error caused by neglecting the density change from pore ice to pore water. The MN model overestimates the excessive pore water pressure at locations near the soil surface, while underestimates it at locations near the thawing front; the error caused by neglecting the density change becomes more pronounced with increasing ice content of frozen soil. Second, comparison between the thaw consolidation process under an instant load and that under a corresponding exponential load is made. The difference in thaw consolidation behavior between the two situations mainly displays during the early stage, when there is obvious discrepancy between the two external loads; the degree of consolidation and thaw consolidation settlement are more sensitive to the discrepancy in external load than the excessive pore water pressure is.
Interpreting correlations in stress‐dependent permeability, porosity, and compressibility of rocks: A viewpoint from finite strain theory
Authors: Wang Luyu , Zhang Yanjun 
Published: March 2024

AbstractCharacteristics of stress‐dependent properties of rocks are commonly described by empirical laws. It is crucial to establish a universal law that connects rock properties with stress. The present study focuses on exploring the correlations among permeability, porosity, and compressibility observed in experiments. To achieve this, we propose a novel finite strain‐based dual‐component (FS‐DC) model, grounded in the finite strain theory within the framework of continuum mechanics. The FS‐DC model decomposes the original problem into the rock matrix and micro‐pores/cracks components. The deformation gradient tensor is utilized to derive the constitutive relations. One of the novelties is that the stress‐dependent variables are calculated in the current configuration, in contrast to the reference configuration used in small deformation theory. The model has only a few number of parameters, each with specific physical interpretations. It can be reduced to existing models with appropriate simplifications. Then, model performance is examined against experimental data, including permeability, porosity, compressibility, volumetric strain and specific storage. It proves that the variations of these properties are effectively described by the proposed model. Further analysis reveals the effect of pores/cracks parameters. The validity of the FS‐DC model is examined across a broad range of pressures. The results show that rock properties at high confining pressures (300 MPa) differ from those observed under relatively low pressures (200 MPa). This disparity can be attributed to inelastic behaviors of micro‐structure, wherein the rock skeleton undergoes permanent deformation and breakage.
Cystic fibrosis and fat malabsorption: Pathophysiology of the cystic fibrosis gastrointestinal tract and the impact of highly effective CFTR modulator therapy
Authors: McDonald Catherine M. , Reid Elizabeth K. , Pohl John F. , Yuzyuk Tatiana K. , Padula Laura M. , Vavrina Kay , Altman Kimberly 
Published: March 2024

AbstractCystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive, genetic, multi‐organ disease affecting the respiratory, digestive, endocrine, and reproductive systems. CF can affect any aspect of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, pancreas, liver, and gall bladder. GI pathophysiology associated with CF results from CF membrane conductance regulator (CFTR) dysfunction. The majority of people with CF (pwCF) experience exocrine pancreatic insufficiency resulting in malabsorption of nutrients and malnutrition. Additionally, other factors can cause or worsen fat malabsorption, including the potential for short gut syndrome with a history of meconium ileus, hepatobiliary diseases, and disrupted intraluminal factors, such as inadequate bile salts, abnormal pH, intestinal microbiome changes, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Signs and symptoms associated with fat malabsorption, such as abdominal pain, bloating, malodorous flatus, gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, anorexia, steatorrhea, constipation, and distal intestinal obstruction syndrome, are seen in pwCF despite the use of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. Given the association of poor nutrition status with lung function decline and increased mortality, aggressive nutrition support is essential in CF care to optimize growth in children and to achieve and maintain a healthy body mass index in adults. The introduction of highly effective CFTR modulator therapy and other advances in CF care have profoundly changed the course of CF management. However, GI symptoms in some pwCF may persist. The use of current knowledge of the pathophysiology of the CF GI tract as well as appropriate, individualized management of GI symptoms continue to be integral components of care for pwCF.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and fat malabsorption related to pancreatectomy and other gastrointestinal surgery: A narrative review
Authors: Morris‐Stiff Gareth 
Published: March 2024

AbstractSurgical resection is the mainstay of treatment for patients with tumors of the pancreas. There are a number of well‐recognized complications that account for the significant morbidity associated with the operation, including exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). Patients with pancreatic cancer commonly have evidence of EPI prior to surgery, and this is exacerbated by an operation, the extent of the insult being dependent on the indication for surgery and the operation performed. There are accumulating data to demonstrate that treatment of EPI with pancreatic enzyme replacement (PERT) enhances clinical outcomes after surgery by reducing critical complications; this in turn may enhance oncological outcomes. Data would indicate that quality of life (QoL) is also improved after surgery when enzymes are prescribed. To date, many surgeons and clinicians have not appreciated the need for PERT or the benefits it may bring to their patients; therefore, education of clinicians remains a significant opportunity. In turn, patient education about consumption of the correct dose of enzymes at the appropriate time is key to an optimal outcome. In addition, because of the complex nature of the regulation of pancreatic exocrine function, there is evidence to support the presence of EPI following operations performed on other gastrointestinal (GI) organs, including the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The aim of this review is to document the existing published evidence in relation to EPI and its treatment with PERT following GI surgery.
Fat malabsorption in pancreatic cancer: Pathophysiology and management
Authors: Murray Gretchen , Ramsey Mitchell L. , Hart Phil A. , Roberts Kristen M. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractExocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is common in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and may lead to significant nutrition compromise. In the setting of cancer cachexia and gastrointestinal toxicities of cancer treatments, untreated (or undertreated) EPI exacerbates weight loss, sarcopenia, micronutrient deficiencies, and malnutrition. Together, these complications contribute to poor tolerance of oncologic therapies and negatively impact survival. Treatment of EPI in PDAC involves the addition of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, with titration to improve gastrointestinal symptoms. Medical nutrition therapies may also be applicable and may include fat‐soluble vitamin replacement, medium‐chain triglycerides, and, in some cases, enteral nutrition. Optimizing nutrition status is an important adjunct treatment approach to improve quality of life and may also improve overall survival.
Quality of life in assisted living facilities for seniors: A descriptive exploratory study
Authors: Alomari Elham , Steinke Claudia 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIntroductionPromoting individuals' health across different life spans has always been key to a holistic nursing practice. Seniors are a diverse population who go through many physical and mental changes as they age. During the last decade, assisted living facilities (ALFs) have dramatically increased in numbers to provide care and living services in a home‐like environment.AimThe aim of this descriptive exploratory study was to explore the quality of life as perceived by seniors who reside in assisted living facilities (ALFs).DesignThis study utilized a descriptive exploratory design to investigate the quality of life of seniors living in ALFs.MethodsSeventeen residents from two ALFs were interviewed to gather their perspectives on the quality of their lives while living in an ALF. The interviews were conducted by the researcher and were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsThree major themes surfaced from residents' descriptions: ‘physical environment’, ‘social environment’ and ‘home‐like atmosphere’. The quality of life in ALFs was found to be predominantly an outcome of the exchange between the personal capability of residents to adapt to changes and the capacity of the facility to meet residents' diverse needs.Patient or Public ContributionParticipants who discussed their quality of life in ALFs provided profound insights into this aspect of their lives. The findings from this study can potentially enlighten ALF stakeholders and enhance the quality of life for seniors residing in these facilities.
Standardized training nurses's humanistic care practice ability: A cross‐sectional survey in western China during COVID‐19
Authors: Li Xixi , Yang Jin , Wang Xiquan , Jin Daoxin , Liu Jing , Yang Luyao , Dela Rosa Ronnell D. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAimThis study aims to investigate the current status and determinants of humanistic care practice abilities among standardized training nurses in China during the post‐COVID‐19 era, as well as to propose management strategies.DesignA cross‐sectional study.MethodsDeliberately chosen were 517 standardized training nursing students from a provincial‐level training facility in western China.ResultsThe respondents had a mean ± SD age of 21.23 ± 1.34 years, and 92.0% of them voluntarily opted for the nursing profession. Almost all (99.8%) respondents had at least a college degree. The standardized training nurses scored an average of (130.31 ± 14.18) on humanistic care ability, which was significantly related to some sociodemographic variables. The average scores for the five dimensions of nursing communication ability, psychological adjustment ability, moral and legal application ability, nursing aesthetic ability, and care practice ability were 30.78, 17.61, 32.23, 18 and 31.67, respectively. All these dimensions showed positive correlations with the overall score of humanistic care practice ability.