Assessment Techniques Research Articles

Vinpocetine protects against osteoarthritis by inhibiting ferroptosis and extracellular matrix degradation via activation of the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway

BackgroundOsteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive joint condition marked by the slow degradation of articular cartilage. Vinpocetine (Vin), a synthetic derivative of vincamine derived from the vinca plant, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, the specific role and mechanism of Vin in the treatment of OA remain largely unexplored. ObjectivesThe study is designed to uncover the impacts of Vin on tert‑butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP)-induced ferroptosis and to explore its potential role and underlying mechanisms in the treatment of OA. Concurrently, we established an OA mouse model through medial meniscal instability surgery to assess the therapeutic effects of Vin in vivo. MethodsThrough network pharmacology analysis, we have identified the key targets and potential pathways of Vin. To simulate an oxidative stress-induced OA environment in vitro, we induced chondrocyte injury using TBHP. We tested how Vin affects chondrocytes under TBHP induction by DHE and DCFH-DA probes, BODIPY-C11 and FerroOrange staining, mitochondrial function assessment, Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence techniques. Simultaneously, we established an OA mouse model through medial meniscal instability surgery to assess the in vivo therapeutic effects of Vin. In this model, we used X-ray and micro-CT imaging, SO staining, TB staining, H&E staining, and immunohistochemistry to analyze the role of Vin in detail. ResultsThis study demonstrated that Vin effectively suppressed TBHP-induced ferroptosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and significantly lessened mitochondrial damage associated with ferroptosis. In the OA mouse model, Vin improved cartilage degeneration, subchondral remodeling, synovitis, and ECM degradation. Vin worked by activating the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway and inhibiting the Keap1-Nrf2 interaction. This study focused on the function of ferroptosis in OA and its influence on chondrocyte damage and disease progression, offering novel perspectives on potential treatments. ConclusionVin activated the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway, thereby slowing OA progression, inhibiting ferroptosis, and preventing ECM degradation.

Enhancing Authentic Assessment in Large-Class Design Education Through Authentic Project-Based Learning

As global economies advance, the cultivation of critical thinking and creativity in higher education is increasingly important for societal and economic progress. Adopting traditional educational methods to larger class sizes where personalized attention is scarce is crucial. This research delves into the fusion of blended and authentic project-based learning by integrating online and face-to-face instruction to immerse students in practical scenarios. The study examines how these integrated methods can improve student engagement, critical thinking, creativity, and proposes an effective assessment system for large-class design education. Drawing from Herrington’s principles of authentic learning and utilizing a mixed-method approach, which includes a Likert scale survey of Design Management students, the research indicates a notable impact of blended and authentic learning on assessment outcomes. The study, presented within the ANABLE (Assessment strategy iN Authentic Blended Learning Environment) framework, emphasizes the enhancements in assessment practices. These improvements enable educators to track learning progress, identify areas needing enhancement, and gauge proficiency levels. The results imply that these pedagogical methods boost learning outcomes by involving students in complex, relevant problems, encouraging deep cognitive engagement, and offering personalized feedback. The findings suggest that these integrated strategies provide practical solutions for large classes, effectively equipping students for contemporary workforce requirements. Enhancing assessment techniques and promoting active learning enhance comprehension and memory retention, develop pertinent skills, foster deeper learning, facilitate fruitful collaboration, and enhance both assessment results and overall student contentment.

Effect of Heating and Massaging of Meibomian Glands on Their Imaging

Background and Objectives: Infrared light is used to image the Meibomian glands through their thermal profile. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combination of heating and an eyelid massage on Meibomian gland visibility and tear film parameters. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four participants (26 ± 6.9 years) were enrolled in this prospective study, which involved imaging the Meibomian glands of both the lower and upper eyelid and assessing the non-invasive breakup time (NIBUT), tear meniscus height (TMH), and blink rate (using the CA-800, Topcon) at baseline after five minutes of eyelid warming followed by a five-minute eyelid massage. The second session, which was randomised in sequence, repeated the same measurements but without the inclusion of any eyelid warming or massage as the control condition. Results: While there was no change in lower lid Meibomian gland appearance as a result of eyelid heating, eyelid massage, or multiple lid eversion (median 2.0, range 0.0 to 4.0; p = 0.782), there was a change in upper lid appearance 5 min after heating and lid massage (p = 0.025), but again, multiple lid eversion had no effect (p > 0.05). The NIBUT decreased on second lid eversion (p = 0.049), although this was not evident on the third lid eversion (p = 0.090). The effect on NIBUT was also apparent with heating (p = 0.034 immediately after) but was sustained with 5 min of eyelid massage (p = 0.031). The TMH increased with heating (p < 0.001), and this effect was sustained with 5 min of eyelid massage (p = 0.011), but there was no lid eversion effect (p > 0.05). The blink rate was unaffected by heating, eyelid massage, or multiple eversions of the eyelids (median 24 blinks/min, range 8 to 59 blinks/min; p = 0.61). Conclusions: Eyelid warming can increase the visibility of the Meibomian glands, although this effect was only observed with upper lid imaging and the effect dissipated after 5 min of eyelid massage. Warming and massage also disrupt the tear film, as does multiple lid eversion, emphasising the need to use the least invasive tear film assessment techniques first.

THE CONTENT OF PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF FUTURE EDUCATORS TO WORK IN PRESCHOOL EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN THE UNITED STATES

This paper provides a comprehensive examination of the content of professional training for future educators preparing to work in preschool education institutions in the United States. It delves into various aspects of the curriculum, highlighting essential components such as child development theories, instructional strategies, assessment techniques, and classroom management practices that are crucial for fostering a conducive learning environment for young children. The study emphasizes the significance of integrating theory with practical experiences. It discusses how hands-on training, including internships and field placements, equips future educators with the skills needed to effectively engage with preschool children and adapt to diverse learning needs. Furthermore, the research underscores the importance of culturally responsive teaching, advocating for a curriculum that reflects the varied backgrounds of children and their families. Additionally, the paper explores the role of collaboration with families and communities, recognizing that strong partnerships are vital for supporting children’s holistic development. It discusses strategies for effective communication with parents and caregivers, as well as the importance of involving them in the educational process. By analyzing current trends and standards in early childhood education, including accreditation requirements and professional competencies, the paper aims to identify best practices for developing skilled educators. It also addresses challenges faced by teacher preparation programs and suggests ways to enhance the quality and relevance of training. Ultimately, this study seeks to contribute valuable insights into the ongoing discourse about teacher preparation in early childhood education, advocating for a well-rounded approach that equips future educators to meet the diverse and dynamic needs of young learners in the United States.

Advancing Lung Ultrasound: The Development and Application of the Anatomical M-Mode Evaluation for Lung Swings (AMLES) Technique in Respiratory Assessment.

Exploring the frontiers of lung ultrasound, this document details a groundbreaking technique for lung function evaluation using anatomical M-mode, also known as angle-independent M-mode. The method, termed AMLES (Anatomical M-Mode Evaluation for Lung Swings), quantifies the displacement of the lung curtain observed at the bilateral costophrenic recesses. This approach translates lung curtain movements into graphical data, offering insights into respiratory mechanics and enhancing the assessment of lung ventilation in emergency settings.

Realtime RONS monitoring of cold plasma-activated aqueous media based on time-resolved phosphorescence spectroscopy

Besides many efforts on the detection and quantification of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONSs) in the aqueous media activated by the cold atmospheric plasma, to get a better insight into the dominant mechanism and reactive species in medical applications, a challenge still remains in monitoring the real-time evaluation of them. To this end, in the present work, relying on the photonic technology based on the time-resolved phosphorescence spectroscopy, real-time tracking of RONSs concentration in treated aqueous media is achieved by following the dissolved oxygen (DO) production/consumption. Using a photonic-based dissolved oxygen sensor, the dependence of real-time RONS concentration evaluation of plasma activated medium on plasma nozzle distance, non-thermal plasma jet exposure time, various culture media, and presence of cells is investigated. Analyzing the results, the activation parameters including the time of reaching maximum RONS concentration after treatment and defined activation parameter \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\epsilon\\:$$\\end{document} of the treated media for each case is measured and compared together. Moreover, employing the scavengers related to two involved ROSs, the dominant chemical reactions as well as ROS contributed in the DMEM medium is determined. As a promising result, the obtained correlation between the real-time DO level and viability and toxicity of the cancer cells, MCF-7 breast cancer cells, could enable us to exploit the present photonic setup as an alternative technique for the biological assessment.

Porto-mesenteric four-dimensional flow MRI: a novel non-invasive technique for assessment of gastro-oesophageal varices

ObjectivesTo assess the role of 4D flow MRI in the assessment of gastro-oesophageal varices and in the prediction of high-risk varices in patients with chronic liver disease.MethodsThirty-eight patients diagnosed with either oesophageal or gastric varices were included in this single-centre prospective study. 4D flow MRI was used to calculate peak flow, average flow and peak velocity at the portal vein confluence (PV1) and hilum (PV2), splenic vein hilum (SV1) and confluence (SV2), and superior mesenteric vein (SMV). PV and SV fractional flow changes were also measured.ResultsROC analysis revealed that both PV2 average flow and PV fractional average flow change had 100% sensitivity to predict high-risk patients with the PV fractional peak flow change having the widest area under the curve (AUC) and the highest specificity (92.3%). SV1 average flow, SV2 average flow, SV2 peak flow, and SV2 peak velocity increased significantly in patients with oesophageal compared to gastric varices included (p = 0.022, < 0.001, < 0.001 and 0.001, respectively).ConclusionBased on certain porto-mesenteric blood flow, velocity, and fractional flow change parameters, 4D flow MRI showed excellent performance in identifying high-risk patients and giving an idea about the grade and location of varices.Critical relevance statementVariceal bleeding is a major consequence of unidentified risky upper GI varices. Thus, by identifying and locating high-risk varices early, either oesophageal or gastric, using a non-invasive method like MRI, adverse events might be avoided.Key Points4D flow MRI can be used as a potential alternative for endoscopy to predict patients with high-risk varices.Based on portal vein fractional flow change, splenic flow and velocity, 4D MRI can predict and locate high-risk varices.Earlier identification of high-risk varices can allow for interventions to prevent adverse events.Graphical

Leveraging corporate governance characteristics for stock crash risk assessment

Causing considerable losses for individual investors, stock crashes are also potential triggers for wider financial crises. In contrast to existing research that primarily focuses on specific corporate governance characteristics in relation to stock crash risk, in this study, we construct a set of corporate governance attributes and employ machine learning techniques for a comprehensive assessment of stock crash risk. Through empirical analysis in the Chinese stock market, we find that our corporate governance attributes are effective indicators of stock crash risk, yielding statistically significant and economically meaningful crash risk assessment. Additionally, our heterogeneity tests suggest that firms with less concentrated shareholding result in superior assessment accuracy. This observation is consistent with prior findings that increased retail investor participation enhances corporate governance transparency, thereby contributing to better assessment performance. Industry-wise, the performance of crash risk assessment for real estate companies is higher than that for cultural, sports, and entertainment sectors. We speculate that these variations stem from industry-specific factors, such as business logic, operational models, and profit mechanisms. Our results also suggest that characteristics related to shareholder meetings are pivotal in assessing crash risks for manufacturing companies, while board-related features are essential for real estate firms. Overall, this study contributes to current literature by validating the feasibility of employing corporate governance characteristics to assess crash risk and by exploring the economic value of crash risk assessment. Furthermore, we discuss several valuable insights into the Chinese stock market through heterogeneity analysis.

Investigating diverse photogrammetric techniques in the hazard assessment of historical sites of the Museum of the Coal Basin Area in Będzin, Poland

Investigating diverse photogrammetric techniques in the hazard assessment of historical sites of the Museum of the Coal Basin Area in Będzin, Poland

Technical and environmental assessment of sludge-derived slag generated from high temperature slagging co-gasification process as a sustainable construction material

Tremendous amount of sludge is generated annually from freshwater treatment or sewage. The high temperature slagging co-gasification converts the sludge to slag showing the potential application for construction material. In this study, the physico-chemical properties of 4 types of slags generated from the co-gasification of municipal solid waste (MSW) with sludge from freshwater treatment or sewage, and ashes from sludge incineration are comprehensively analyzed. Leaching performance of the sludge-derived slag and mortar (with slag as the fine aggregate), as determined based on Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), batch leaching and column leaching tests, indicates the slag can be considered safe for reutilization. Compressive strength test demonstrates that the mortars perform excellently and have the potential to replace sand in concrete production. The consolidation coefficient of slag (1.6 – 39.1 m2/year) is lower than the sandy silt but higher than clay. Additionally, the coefficient of permeability (∼1.96 × 10-3 m/s), angle of shearing resistance (∼39°), and undrained shear strength (375.5 ± 54.8 kPa) of the slag are comparable to sand. The life cycle assessment (LCA) is also conducted to evaluate the environmental impacts and benefits of reutilizing sludge-derived slag as an alternative material for concrete production and land reclamation.

Echocardiography for Management of Cardiovascular Disease in Pregnancy.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to be a leading contributor to maternal mortality and morbidity. Echocardiography is an essential tool for patients with suspected and known CVD to establish symptom etiology, treatment strategy, and prognosis. We summarize the current status of conventional and novel techniques for assessment of CVD during pregnancy. Conventional techniques are still useful for evaluation of known or suspected CVD. Advanced technology using speckle tracking continues to evolve and is increasingly applied for diagnosis of subclinical disease including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Precise recommendations on how frequently echocardiography should be performed and for whom remain in flux. However, a recently published consensus statement and new screening tool for pregnancy assessment of patients with valvular heart disease provide additional advice on using this modality. Echocardiography remains the diagnostic modality of choice for evaluation and risk stratification in pregnancy.

Development and validation of High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatographic methods for simultaneous determination of antibacterial pharmaceutical formulations containing Clindamycin phosphate.

The main objective of this research is to establish and authenticate the High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatographic techniques for the simultaneous assessment of Clindamycin phosphate in combination with Tretinoin (formulation-1) and Clindamycin phosphate with Adapalene (formulation-2), both of which are antimicrobial combinations. In the developed HPTLC methods, for combination-1, the optimized mobile phase was a mixture of n-Hexane: Ethyl acetate: ACN: Methanol (5:2:2:1 by volume) with observed Rf values of 0.413 and 0.787 for Clindamycin phosphate and Tretinoin, respectively. Similarly, for combination-2, the mobile phase comprised n-Hexane: Diethyl ether: Dichloromethane: Acetic acid (4:4:2:0.1 by volume) with recorded Rf values of 0.407 and 0.559 for Clindamycin phosphate and Adapalene, respectively. The developed methods are successfully validated as per the regulatory guidelines. This approach proves to be significantly time-saving and costeffective, rendering it suitable for routine analyses of the formulations containing selected antibacterial active pharmaceutical ingredients and commercial formulations.

Technical and Economic Assessment of Technologies for Forage Land Improvement

Technical and Economic Assessment of Technologies for Forage Land Improvement

Characterisation and simulated evaluation of electricity management strategies for Prosumers, Prosumagers, and other end-users

ABSTRACT Distributed photovoltaic generation has been raised as a dependable electricity substitute for implementing a decarbonised energy transition. The dynamics of PV systems with battery storage have led to new electricity end-user classifications that select their electricity systems and resources wisely, i.e. Prosumers and Prosumagers. This work presents a technical and economic assessment to analyse the effect of decision-making independent end-users and electricity management strategies through a novel time-discrete deterministic simulation model. The end-user's choice of battery storage technology and their approach to electricity management emerge as pivotal factors influencing their strategic decisions. Adopting a prosumer strategy, such as storing and selling surplus self-production, reduces the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), benefiting the end-user economically. Notably, the most effective battery storage technology may only sometimes be the one that is most readily available in the market. These findings enhance our understanding of novel end-user types and underscore the practical implications of their evolutionary shift towards independence.

PVC Dechlorination for Facilitating Plastic Chemical Recycling: A Systematic Literature Review of Technical Advances, Modeling and Assessment

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins are widely used in modern society due to their acid and alkali resistance, low cost, and strong insulation properties. However, the high chlorine (Cl) content in PVC poses significant challenges for its recycling. This study reviews the treatment processes, model construction, and economic and environmental assessments to construct a methodological framework for the sustainable development of emerging dechlorination technologies. In terms of treatment processes, this study summarizes three types of processes, pretreatment, simultaneous dechlorination during chemical recycling, product purification, and emphasizes the necessity of dechlorination treatment from a systematic perspective. Additionally, the construction of models for dechlorination processes is investigated from the laboratory to the industrial production system to macro-scale material, in order to evaluate the potential inventory data and material metabolism behaviors. This review also summarized the methodology framework of Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which can be applied for evaluation of the economic and environmental performance of the dechlorination processes. Overall, this review provides readers with a comprehensive perspective on the state-of-the-art for PVC dechlorination technologies, meanwhile offering sustainable guidance for future research and industrial applications of chemical recycling of PVC waste.

Design, Development, and Validation of a Military Orientated Re-configurable Cognitive Task Battery

The United Kingdom’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has developed an innovative military cognitive task battery tool titled: Interactive Measures of Performance and Assessment of Cognitive Tasks (IMPACT). The purpose of the tool is to support the objective assessment of cognitive task performance and task demand across a range of military system types, use cases and experimental settings. IMPACT consists of six, reconfigurable, generic military tasks, and an intuitive user interface for the experimenter to configure the tool and collect data. Initial validation of the IMPACT tool has been undertaken and a number of early adopters have used the tool to support trials, system development and experimentation. The validation results show that the six individual IMPACT tasks broadly stimulate the associated cognitive attributes; as mapped and originally conceived during the design and development of the tool; as measured by subjective assessment techniques, psychophysiological monitoring, and performance measures. IMPACT continues to be refined in response to feedback from the validation exercise and early adopters of the tool.

Ethnic Considerations When Planning Lip Augmentation.

Ideal standards of beauty including preferred lip characteristics vary between ethnicities. Though plump, well-defined lips are globally associated with youth, variation exists with regards to the perceived ideal lip volume and proportions between ethnicities. Proportions that may be assessed when planning lip augmentation include the upper to lower lip ratio, philtrum length, upper and lower vermilion heights, the ratio between the philtrum height and that of the upper vermilion, and the lip height to lip width ratio. It is important that accurate assessments of patients are made pre- and post- augmentation. However, many aesthetic assessment tools are based on Caucasian models with limited use in other ethnicities. We present a review of the ideal lip characteristics and assessment techniques accounting for ethnicity, with a view to providing practitioners an evidence-based approach to lip assessment and treatment planning for patients of all backgrounds.

Modelling for working capital efficiency: integrating SBM-DEA and artificial neural networks in Indian manufacturing

Purpose This study aims to present an innovative predictive methodology that transitions from traditional efficiency assessment techniques to a forward-looking strategy for evaluating working capital management(WCM) and its determinants by integrating data envelopment analysis (DEA) with artificial neural networks (ANN). Design/methodology/approach A slack-based measure (SBM) within DEA was used to evaluate the WCME of 1,388 firms in the Indian manufacturing sector across nine industries over the period from April 2009 to March 2024. Subsequently, a fixed-effects model was used to determine the relationships between selected determinants and WCME. Moreover, the multi-layer perceptron method was applied to calculate the artificial neural network (ANN). Finally, sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the relative significance of key predictors on WCME. Findings Manufacturing firms consistently operate at around 50% WCME throughout the study period. Furthermore, among the selected variables, ability to create internal resources, leverage, growth, total fixed assets and productivity are relatively significant vital predictors influencing WCME. Originality/value The integration of SBM-DEA and ANN represents the primary contribution of this research, introducing a novel approach to efficiency assessment. Unlike traditional models, the SBM-DEA model offers unit invariance and monotonicity for slacks, allowing it to handle zero and negative data, which overcomes the limitations of previous DEA models. This innovation leads to more accurate efficiency scores, enabling robust analysis. Furthermore, applying neural networks provides predictive insights by identifying critical predictors for WCME, equipping firms to address WCM challenges proactively.

Influence of Teachers’ Professional Training and Development on Students’ Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Ndhiwa Sub-County Homabay County, Kenya

Purpose: The persistent academic underperformance in public secondary schools in Kenyan rural areas has raised concerns among educators, policymakers, and local communities. The purpose of the study is to evaluate how teacher professional training and development influence academic performance. One of the key factors believed to have contributed to this challenge is the lack of sufficient and effective professional training and development programs for teachers. There is a growing need to examine how teachers' professional training and development influence students' academic outcomes. The problem this study seeks to address is the unclear and under-researched relationship between teachers' professional development and students' academic performance in Ndhiwa Sub-County. Methodology: The study used descriptive research design and 15 public secondary schools, 113 teachers and 522 students were involved in the study as study respondents. The study used document analysis and semi structured questionnaires to collect the quantitative data, which was analyzed through descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages). Findings: The study reveals that teachers' professional training and development have a significant impact on students' academic performance in public secondary schools in Ndhiwa Sub-County. The findings also indicated that teachers who undergo continuous professional development are better equipped with modern teaching strategies, content knowledge, and student engagement techniques, which in turn positively influence students' academic outcomes. Teachers with higher levels of training and access to ongoing professional development demonstrate improved classroom management, increased use of learner-centered methodologies, and more effective assessment technique. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: From the study findings, the study recommends that schools and educational authorities should develop more structured and regular Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programs that focus on subject-specific training, pedagogical skills, and updated teaching methodologies. This is because the study findings likely indicate that teachers who engage in regular training and development show better performance in student outcomes. The education policy makers should come up with the programs that forge partnerships between secondary schools and local universities or teacher training colleges to provide advanced training opportunities and access to educational research.

A Bone Health Optimization Framework for Malaysia: a position paper by the Malaysian Bone Health Optimization Network (MyBONe).

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are highly prevalent among older patients scheduled for elective arthroplasties and spinal surgeries. This position paper aims to establish, promote, and standardise effective Bone Health Optimization (BHO) strategies for such patients within orthopaedic practices in Malaysia. It emphasises the need for bone health assessments to be undertaken at the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative stages, with tailored management strategies to meet individual patient needs. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on articles published from 2019 to 2024. Twelve broad themes were defined including definitions and importance of BHO, epidemiological data, assessment techniques, risk stratification, management strategies, and outcome metrics. Elective surgeries on patients with poor bone health are associated with adverse outcomes, such as periprosthetic fractures, aseptic loosening of implants, and complications after spinal surgeries. This position paper advocates for routine bone health assessments and monitoring during the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative phases. It provides summaries of imaging modalities, risk assessment tools, and techniques for each phase. By adapting the successful "5IQ" approach from secondary fracture prevention, we propose 5IQ-based Clinical Standards for BHO, including 18 Key Performance Indicators. A Malaysian BHO Registry is proposed to benchmark care in real-time and support a national quality improvement programme. Practical resources, such as a BHO algorithm and key practice points, are included. This position paper proposes a paradigm shift in the management of bone health for patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery in Malaysia, aiming to improve surgical outcomes and patient care through standardised BHO strategies.