Establishment Of Connections Research Articles

Unveiling the Interconnections Between Art, Politics, and Society in the Soviet System Through Art: A Case Study of the Exhibition “1972. Breaking Through the Wall”

Summary This article is dedicated to analysing the exhibition “1972. Breaking Through the Wall” from several perspectives: the curator, the viewers, and the exhibition architect tasked with creating an environment for the art exhibition in an unconventional setting. The article examines the curators’ choices, discusses the work of the exhibition architect within the context of heritage conservation requirements, and presents the results of a viewer survey. This exhibition raised the issue of the significance of alternative creativity, opposed to the official narrative, in a non-free society. It focused on Lithuanian art from the 1960s to the 1980s that countered the official Soviet cultural course. The exhibition’s prehistory includes the historical fact that in the spring of 1972, a young man self-immolated in Kaunas in protest against the lack of freedom. These events had direct and indirect reverberations in the arts, although they were not exhibited at the time due to fear of repression. This difficult experience has left its mark on Lithuanian culture and collective memory. The exhibition highlighted the role of various societal groups in opposing the ruling authorities and establishing personal and creative freedom as the highest value. The art display, composed of works from professionals (fine arts, theatre) and amateurs (rock and big beat musicians) from the 1960s to 1980s who resisted official Soviet art, clearly demonstrated how Kaunas – the capital of Lithuania from 1920 to 1940 – was influenced by the city’s prominent pre-war modernism (environment and lifestyle) and the Soviet ideology imposed on the entire country. The clash of two diametrically opposed ideological stances and artistic principles in Soviet Lithuania led to the emergence of an alternative culture. For the first time in the history of Lithuanian exhibitions, this exhibition showed how the social and the arts were affected by the pressure exerted by the official authorities. The visitor survey showed that the positive reactions to the exhibition were also due to socio-political events that have become embedded in the nation’s memory. The events stored in the collective memory of the nation correlated with specific creative artefacts and historical details, which the younger generation saw for the first time. Noteworthy was the symbiosis of emotional experiences among visitors of different ages, observing exhibits with both artistic and historical value. As indicated by the visitor survey, the exhibition facilitated the establishment of a closer connection between generations. The exhibition’s display in a cultural heritage site – the former post office building (by architect Feliksas Vizbaras, 1932) – was a complex task creatively resolved by contemporary architects.

Enhancing social skills: the impact of advanced physical education program development

Background: The cultivation of social behaviour during childhood and adolescence holds paramount importance, serving as a cornerstone for the establishment of robust interpersonal connections in subsequent stages of life, whether transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. Research Objective: This research aims to assess how implementing enhanced physical education influences social interactions and behaviour among adolescents. Methods: The study employed a pretest-posttest control group design, involving experimental and control groups randomly selected from high school students in the City of Aceh. The study’s population was drawn from class X students at a public high school in Aceh City, encompassing 4 classes with a total of 124 students. Cluster random sampling was employed as the sampling technique. The researcher randomly selected one class as the experimental group and another as the control group. The participants included two classes: 30 students from class 10B as the experimental group and 30 students from class 10D as the control group. Thus, the study involved a total of 60 participants. Social behaviour was evaluated using standardised questionnaires measuring various dimensions. The pre-test and post-test data analysis techniques were analysed using a homogeneity test, a normality test, and a Mann-Whitney test using SPSS version 22, with a significance threshold set at p < 0.05. Finding/Result: The results indicate significant improvements in social behaviour among adolescents who underwent the enhanced physical education, sports, and health program compared to the control group. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of integrating comprehensive physical education into high school curricula to foster positive social development among adolescents.

High-speed nonlinear dynamic analysis of dual springs system considering internal structural impact

The significant dynamic responses of helical springs are widely reported as the main reason causing pre-failure in various high-speed conditions. Though the concept of nonlinear springs is proposed to reduce their own dynamic responses, they are found to induce unexpected spike forces during operations. This study presents a dual springs system used within high-speed sports car engines, which aims to mitigate the dynamic responses and spike forces. Analytical models are first developed to calculate the fundamental frequencies of the outer and the inner springs of the system. Then, a transient finite element (FE) model is developed to accurately simulate the dual springs system working at various high engine speeds and validated experimentally by the results of the engine head tests. The simulations reveal that the use of dual springs with different natural frequencies can mitigate the dynamic responses of the whole system to a certain extent. Nevertheless, it is still a compromise as coil clash occurs on each isolated spring though the effects are reduced. The findings of this study indicate that the establishment of direct connections between every component spring would be a promising way to better mitigate the dynamic responses including the effects of coil clash.

Társadalmi felelősségvállalás a magyar felsőoktatásban: a Lorántffy Zsuzsanna Mentorprogram a Nemzeti Közszolgálati Egyetemen I.

The National University of Public Service is dedicated to social responsibility. One of its forms is volunteering, a cultural aspect that is lacking in the societal embedding in our country (Fejes, Kelemen és Szűcs, 2016). The study presents the results of an ongoing mentoring program at NUPS, where university members provided weekly subject tutoring online for residents of child protection centers in Transylvania. The primary goal of the program is to provide a form of compensation for disadvantages and psycho-social care through the establishment of personal connections (Baráth, 2016), aiding in the improvement of academic performance for underprivileged youth. In the long term, it aims to provide opportunities for the development of coping strategies that support participants in breaking through and achieving further success (Szőtsné és tsai, 2007). In the spring semester of the 2022/23 academic year, three children's homes had 36 students participating in the pilot phase of the program. After methodological training, 28 mentors provided assistance. Mentoring took place weekly in the requested subjects, including related study method counseling. Among the mentors were students, university lecturers, and functional staff, Continuous methodological counseling and experience exchange were provided. Each mentor kept a progress diary. At the end of the program, individual and focus group evaluations were conducted for all participant groups. The results of the pilot research are presented in two parts. The first presents the literature review and the academic background to the programme. The second paper will present the results of the research, the discussion and further steps planned.

System for the Acquisition and Monitoring of Energy Consumption in the Context of Industry 4.0

This paper examines methodologies for monitoring energy consumption and operational parameters of an industrial assembly line, with a particular emphasis on the utilization of virtual tools, augmented reality, and real-time data visualization. The research examines the integration of an interface and the implementation of a data acquisition system, employing augmented reality to facilitate interaction with the collected data. The proposed system employs the Node-RED interface to facilitate the establishment of connections between constituent elements. The data is stored in a database, which provides support for decision-making in the analysis of energy consumption and operational parameters of the industrial assembly line. The results demonstrate that the solution is effective in enhancing energy resource management, identifying inefficiencies, and optimizing the performance of industrial equipment. The findings indicate that the implementation of such a system can markedly enhance the industrial process.

Историко-правовой анализ защиты авторских прав в Великобритании

Introduction. The history of origin and development of copyright, mechanisms of its protection is closely related to the change of paradigms, transformation of society, and emergence of qualitatively new social relations in it. The identification of general historical regularities as well as significant differences allows not only to characterise more clearly the problems arising in connection with copyright protection, but also, based on the events of the past, to identify trends in the further development of this institution. The author was given a multi–faceted task of this study – the systematization of knowledge about the subject of research with the identification of features and historical patterns associated with the emergence of the copyright institute in the UK. Essential to substantiate the existence of copyright in modern realities is the need to clarify the conceptual ideas and traditions of literary and artistic property in the law making of European states of the XIX – historical context, identifying the peculiarities of each stage, from the first royal privileges to modern approaches to copyright protection in Great Britain. Methods. The solution of the problems faced by the researcher was possible taking into account the use of methods of analysis, synthesis, analogy in combination with comparative-legal, formal-legal, systemic methods, as well as problem-theoretical and historical-legal methods of research. Results. The obtained results of the conducted historical and legal analysis supplement the knowledge on the theory and history of foreign state and law, clarify the peculiarities of the nature of copyright in its historical context. Conclusion. Identification and establishment of historical and legal connections, general historical regularities of origin, formation and further development of the institute of copyright in Great Britain (its protection) will allow to outline a number of issues arising in copyright in the modern world and to determine the trends of further development of this institute.

The function of Mef2c toward the development of excitatory and inhibitory cortical neurons.

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are caused by abnormal brain development, leading to altered brain function and affecting cognition, learning, self-control, memory, and emotion. NDDs are often demarcated as discrete entities for diagnosis, but empirical evidence indicates that NDDs share a great deal of overlap, including genetics, core symptoms, and biomarkers. Many NDDs also share a primary sensitive period for disease, specifically the last trimester of pregnancy in humans, which corresponds to the neonatal period in mice. This period is notable for cortical circuit assembly, suggesting that deficits in the establishment of brain connectivity are likely a leading cause of brain dysfunction across different NDDs. Regulators of gene programs that underlie neurodevelopment represent a point of convergence for NDDs. Here, we review how the transcription factor MEF2C, a risk factor for various NDDs, impacts cortical development. Cortical activity requires a precise balance of various types of excitatory and inhibitory neuron types. We use MEF2C loss-of-function as a study case to illustrate how brain dysfunction and altered behavior may derive from the dysfunction of specific cortical circuits at specific developmental times.

A Sustainable City Made By Resident-Experts - How Designerly Intervention Enacted Rights of the Public and Urban Infrastructure

This paper proposes an investigation of how enacting infrastructure is intertwined with historically specific processes of constructing the public, which necessitates a focus on the co-production of public problems and the public, and the establishment of infrastructural connections. Intervening in the context where reflexive planning and design methodologies are deployed to implement urban regeneration through public engagement (what I call “designerly intervention”), this paper investigates what type of collectivity is constituted as infrastructural publics by designerly interventions and what forms of rights they can have. Drawing on ethnographic accounts of urban regeneration in Seoul, it shows how designerly interventions mobilize residents as possessing a novel form of expertise, as “resident-experts” who can design a sustainable city, problematizing the renewal of the worn-out infrastructure as how to stimulate the resilience of a city. This results in an infrastructural connection that focuses on immediate results and the ordinary scale of urban regeneration, which enacts the rights of the public as city-users’ rights, namely not as rights protected by law but as a practical capacity that infrastructural devices in everyday life provide. This paper explores how designerly interventions invoke an experimental approach that opens up the normative questions of public engagement with planning.

Smart Transportation Systems: IOT-enabled Traffic Management & Vehicle-to-infrastructure Communication

Recently, there has been a substantial increase in the number of cars on the road. Escalating traffic congestion is a widespread problem that folks face on a daily basis. The manual control of traffic-by-traffic police has shown to be ineffective. “Furthermore, the signal's set duration has failed to effectively address this issue, regardless of the level of traffic congestion. This research presents a communication system called Vehicle-to-Blockchain (V2B), which utilizes blockchain technology to enable transparent and decentralized communications. The aim is to optimize the incorporation of blockchain technology into V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) and IoT (Internet of Things) systems, therefore enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of future transportation systems. We present a range of advanced applications for blockchain technology, such as a car ownership system that utilizes the multi-token standard, a vehicle grading system, the integration of blockchain with the Internet of Things (IoT), and a decentralized ticket administration system for transportation services. The design places a high emphasis on essential elements such as the seamless integration of data, precise precision, and the establishment of secure connections. Furthermore, it includes a decentralized payment system and marketplace for transportation inside smart cities. Our main focus is on the technical execution of smart contracts in these particular scenarios, highlighting their importance in guaranteeing strong and dependable interactions. Our decentralized approach creates a transportation ecosystem that has the ability to adjust and fulfill the evolving requirements of intelligent urban areas. It is groundbreaking, durable, and capable

SPECIFICS OF COPING STRATEGIES OF STUDENTS WITH DIFFERENT KINDS OF LOCUS OF CONTROL

Background. The article examines the results of studying coping strategies of students taking into account their subjective locus of control. The introduction includes a detailed description of the concepts of coping behavior and coping strategies, as well as an analysis of the factors influencing the variety of coping strategies. The authors conclude that locus of control, being one of personalized resources of coping behavior, is a promising research area. The scientific novelty of the article is the establishment of connection between the area of locus of control and the level of constructiveness of coping strategies among students. Purpose. The authors advert to this issue in order to determine the influence of locus of control on the level of adaptability of behavioral strategies. Materials and methods. For solving the research tasks, the authors used a complex of theoretical and empirical methods, including the analysis of psychological and pedagogical literature, comparison, systematization, concretizing, summarizing pedagogical experience, questioning, testing, and pedagogical experiment. The instruments of diagnostics included the method of diagnosing locus of control (by E.F. Zeer, G.A. Karpova), method of diagnosing coping mechanisms by E. Heim, adapted by L.I. Vasserman, and the method of diagnosing the level of subjective control (by J. Rotter). Results. The main part of the article describes the results of diagnostics of students’ locus of control. Moreover, the authors reveal the correlation of internal and external locus of control with coping strategies, taking into account their adaptability and areas of mental activity (cognitive, emotional and behavioral). The research consisted of 3 stages: differentiation, correlation and specification, while each stage included different instruments of diagnostics. In conclusion, the authors prove the necessity of developing and introducing a program for increasing the level of general internality of students in the process of formal and informal educational activity.

HnRNP R promotes O-GlcNAcylation of eIF4G and facilitates axonal protein synthesis

Motoneurons critically depend on precise spatial and temporal control of translation for axon growth and the establishment and maintenance of neuromuscular connections. While defects in local translation have been implicated in the pathogenesis of motoneuron disorders, little is known about the mechanisms regulating axonal protein synthesis. Here, we report that motoneurons derived from Hnrnpr knockout mice show reduced axon growth accompanied by lowered synthesis of cytoskeletal and synaptic components in axons. Mutant mice display denervated neuromuscular junctions and impaired motor behavior. In axons, hnRNP R is a component of translation initiation complexes and, through interaction with O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) transferase (Ogt), modulates O-GlcNAcylation of eIF4G. Restoring axonal O-GlcNAc levels rescued local protein synthesis and axon growth defects of hnRNP R knockout motoneurons. Together, these findings demonstrate a function of hnRNP R in controlling the local production of key factors required for axon growth and formation of neuromuscular innervations.

The World s Leading Transport and Transit Hub: Azerbaijan-Türkiye-Georgia

In the new world order established after the collapse of the USSR at the end of the 20th century, mutual and beneficial cooperation between states located in close geographical proximity came to the fore. In this regard, the South Caucasus, as one of the most sensitive geopolitical regions of the world with rich resources, stands out. New formats of cooperation began to emerge in the Caucasus. Principally, high-level strategic relations have been established between Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Georgia. Cooperation between the countries was expanded for the most part in the field of transport. Obviously, the creation of the Azerbaijan-Georgia-Türkiye triangle was caused by historical and cultural ties, geographic neighborhood, being part of a single transit corridor, favorable conditions and political will. The territory of Georgia was especially stand in need of the general infrastructure transport projects implementation in the region. Due to the fact that Georgia is a transit country, that ensures the transition between Europe and Asia. Furthermore, the aggressive policy of Armenia, another South Caucasus country, made Georgia a country of convenience. All the same, the establishment of a railway connection between the three countries has formed a favorable ground for Central Asian republics, which have great transport potential, to Türkiye and other European countries. Currently, cooperation relations between the three states in both bilateral and multilateral formats are to be remained unaltered. In terms of transport and transit issues, the region will gain a more significant position with the implementation of projects between Türkiye , Georgia, and Azerbaijan.

The nonlinear rainfall–quick flow relationships in a humid mountainous area: Roles of soil thickness and forest type

The nonlinear behavior of hillslope quick flow (QF) in response to variations in soil thickness and forest types remains unclear due to uncertainties or unknown features in field studies, hindering accurate interpretation of their impact on QF. To this end, three artificial physical models with different mineral soil thickness (0 cm, shallow 50 cm, and thick 150 cm) beneath a 50 cm root zone for each forest (i.e., the broadleaf and coniferous forests) were constructed and intensively monitored. Results showed that the threshold-based QF was a function of the sum of rainfall amount and antecedent soil wetness, which was isolated by two breakpoints—the generation and rising thresholds—across all artificial physical models. These breakpoints indicated the storage thresholds for QF generation and the transition from slow to fast QF in humid forests. The broadleaf forest required more rainfall to reach the generation threshold due to higher litter interception capacity and soil water deficit by plant water uptake compared to the coniferous forest. Above the rising threshold phase, QF increased rapidly and linearly due to the establishment of flow path connectivity driven by soil water content, with the broadleaf forest showing a faster increase in QF than the coniferous forest. The dominant preferential/unsaturated flow in humid mountainous areas was also confirmed. Preferential flow paths were well-connected in the root zone and extended to the shallow mineral soil, resulting in an insignificant difference in mean QF between forest types. The thick mineral soil disrupted preferential flow path connectivity, leading to a greater amount of water being laterally diverted and retained within the soil. Consequently, a sharp decrease in QF was observed in hillslope with the root zone capping thick mineral soil for both forests. Our results highlighted the application of threshold-based theory and controlled experiments in enhancing the comprehension of the fundamental physical mechanism governing runoff processes in humid forests.

Momentum-space formulae for AdS correlators for diverse theories in diverse dimensions

In this paper, we explore correlators of a series of theories in anti-de Sitter space: we present comprehensive results for interactions involving scalars, gluons, and gravitons in multiple dimensions. One aspect of our investigation is the establishment of an intriguing connection between the kinematic factors of these theories; indeed, such a connection directly relates these theories among themselves and with other theories of higher spin fields. Besides providing several explicit results throughout the paper, we also highlight the interconnections and relationships between these different theories, providing valuable insights into their similarities and distinctions.

“The right to die”? On voluntary retirement and related obligations of the state. A study based on the law enforcement practice of the Highest Courts of Germany and the ECHR

The article examines the problems of the “right to death” – a constitutional and legal guarantee that recognizes the right of a person to end his own life at his discretion. This issue was initially considered as a downside, a kind of negative dimension of the right to life (Part 2 of Article 2 of the Basic Law of Germany). However, the focus has changed over time; the discussion is currently being conducted in the context of the right to personal self-determination. Within the framework of this article, the analysis is carried out on the basis of the law enforcement practice of the highest courts of Germany and the European Court of Human Rights. The point of contact of the German courts can be considered the recognition of the right to voluntary retirement as an act of individual self-expression, the realization of personal choice. The legal structure of the right to personal self-determination presupposes the establishment of a close connection between the right to general freedom of action (Part 1 of Article 2 of the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany) and the guarantee of human dignity in accordance with Part 1 of Article 1 of the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany. At the same time, the counterargument is not considered convincing, according to which the recognition of the “right to death” entails the impossibility of further personal self-realization and therefore contradicts the “life-affirming” spirit of the Basic Law, expressed, in particular, in part 2 of Article 2, since the very realization of the desire to end life is considered as an act of self-realization, which falls under constitutional protection. This constitutional and legal concept, developed by the Constitutional Court of the Federal Republic of Germany, is shared by the rest of the highest judicial instances of Germany, which complement it, in particular, by establishing state obligations to assist persons who wish to voluntarily end their own lives. The European Court of Human Rights has not yet had the opportunity to express its position on this issue, however, trends in the development of its law enforcement practice indicate that it is likely sooner or later to join the legal line of the German courts. The author identifies the argumentative shortcomings of the fundamental prerequisites for justifying the right to voluntary retirement, demonstrating not only their internal inconsistency, but also the inadmissibility of the consequences that state support for suicidal aspirations of citizens will lead to.

Comprehensive analysis of the impact of elevated metro line infrastructure on the urban heat island effect in Chennai: A multi-model approach

This study is driven by the essential need to understand the dynamic urban heat island patterns in Chennai, particularly in light of the city’s significant expansion which resulted in the establishment of connectivity through the implementation of the elevated metro line infrastructure project. A notable gap in the current research landscape lies in the exploration of the impact of this recently introduced metro infrastructure on urban heat islands. Utilizing a multi-modal approach, the research incorporates remote sensing data, Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) patterns, mobile transect surveys along a segment of the metro stretch, and in situ data logging at three locations. The study reveals a strong correlation between mean Land Surface Temperature (LST) values and landscape metrics. The introduction of the elevated metro line resulted in a noteworthy decrease of 4.26 °C in UHI patterns in the month of May. It was also found that the varying land-use along the metro also plays an impact on average Surface Urban Heat Island Intensity (SUHII). The three elevated corridors demonstrate reductions in SUHII by 2.3 °C, 1.4 °C, and 1.3 °C. Mobile transect surveys indicate that afternoons show an average UHI Intensity (UHII) of 4.7 °C and 4.6 °C for road and metro-road scenarios, with the metro line exhibiting a comparatively lower UHII of 2.8 °C. Data logging reveals that the Metro_Veg (metro-line with vegetation on either side) scenario exhibits a more pronounced UHI effect compared to Metro_Build (metro-line with buildings on either side). Metro_Veg records the highest air temperature at 45.90 °C, followed by Metro_Build and Road_Veg (road with vegetation on either side) at 43.70 °C and 39.70 °C, respectively. The elevated metro structure provides shade on roads, resulting in the lowest surface temperatures in the metro scenario. Overall, the findings suggest that metro line infrastructure holds potential for UHI mitigation. While extending metro lines across every road may not be feasible, the study advocates for shading above roads as a practical mitigative measure. Future research can explore various structures and materials, including dynamic solutions, for mitigating UHI effects along urban roads, contributing to sustainable urban development.

Amniotic Membrane-Derived Multichannel Hydrogels for Neural Tissue Repair.

In the pursuit of advancing neural tissue regeneration, biomaterial scaffolds have emerged as promising candidates, offering potential solutions for nerve disruptions. Among these scaffolds, multichannel hydrogels, characterized by meticulously designed micrometer-scale channels, stand out as instrumental tools for guiding axonal growth and facilitating cellular interactions. This study explores the innovative application of human amniotic membranes modified with methacryloyl domains (AMMA) in neural stem cell (NSC) culture. AMMA hydrogels, possessing a tailored softness resembling the physiological environment, are prepared in the format of multichannel scaffolds to simulate native-like microarchitecture of nerve tracts. Preliminary experiments on AMMA hydrogel films showcase their potential for neural applications, demonstrating robust adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of NSCs without the need for additional coatings. Transitioning into the 3D realm, the multichannel architecture fosters intricate neuronal networks guiding neurite extension longitudinally. Furthermore, the presence of synaptic vesicles within the cellular arrays suggests the establishment of functional synaptic connections, underscoring the physiological relevance of the developed neuronal networks. This work contributes to the ongoing efforts to find ethical, clinically translatable, and functionally relevant approaches for regenerative neuroscience.

How is feedback perceived by Brazilian students and faculty from a nursing school?

AimThis study aims to explore the perceptions of feedback among undergraduate students and faculty members at a Brazilian private nursing school. BackgroundFeedback plays a crucial role in the socioemotional development of learners, with its interpretation varying across different sociocultural contexts. Student evaluations frequently express dissatisfaction regarding both the quality and quantity of feedback received. Conversely, delivering feedback poses a challenge for faculty, requiring the establishment of an empathetic connection that fosters trust and credibility. Brazil, being a developing country characterized by social disparities and economic challenges, presents a unique backdrop for examining feedback dynamics. DesignQualitative research, employing Inductive Content Analysis, was used to understand feedback perceptions in Brazilian nursing education. Symbolic interactionism was adopted as methodological framework and guided data interpretation. MethodsWe carried out five virtual focus groups composed of a group of teachers (n=5) and four of students (n=34). Semi-structured interviews guided data collection. The recorded sessions were subsequently analyzed to identify key themes and codes. Symbolic interactionism was employed as a framework to derive meaning from qualitative data. ResultsContent analysis generated two categories that reveal the perception of teachers and students in the feedback process. The first, called “Feedback in Education: Sociocultural Influences for Students and Teachers”, expresses the beliefs and interpretations of students and teachers within the shared feedback environment. The second called “Challenging resonance, transformative construction: Navigating the dualities of feedback for teachers and students”, which elucidated how relational dynamics shape behaviors and attitudes, promoting the development of social skills and learning. Faculty's previous feedback experiences significantly influence their self-perception and behavior with students. As a result of the resonance of these past interactions, we recognize that the teaching self also plays a crucial role in the quality and perception of feedback. Furthermore, students construct social reality with similar beliefs and values, they believe in the learning potential generated by feedback. Our findings also corroborate that perceptions of feedback are deeply influenced by the sociocultural context and the narratives corroborate previous findings indicating that, in Brazil, honest feedback can be implicitly perceived as criticism rather than an opportunity for growth. ConclusionsFaculty members often draw on their past experiences when providing feedback, highlighting the adaptive nature of feedback interactions. Additionally, the feedback process is consistently influenced by the commitment to maintaining positive relationships with students. Students recognize the constructive dimension of feedback as a valuable tool for learning and personal growth.

Integrating hydrogels manipulate ECM deposition after spinal cord injury for specific neural reconnections via neuronal relays.

A bioinspired hydrogel composed of hyaluronic acid-graft-dopamine (HADA) and a designer peptide HGF-(RADA)4-DGDRGDS (HRR) was presented to enhance tissue integration following spinal cord injury (SCI). The HADA/HRR hydrogel manipulated the infiltration of PDGFRβ+ cells in a parallel pattern, transforming dense scars into an aligned fibrous substrate that guided axonal regrowth. Further incorporation of NT3 and curcumin promoted axonal regrowth and survival of interneurons at lesion borders, which served as relays for establishing heterogeneous axon connections in a target-specific manner. Notable improvements in motor, sensory, and bladder functions resulted in rats with complete spinal cord transection. The HADA/HRR + NT3/Cur hydrogel promoted V2a neuron accumulation in ventral spinal cord, facilitating the recovery of locomotor function. Meanwhile, the establishment of heterogeneous neural connections across the hemisected lesion of canines was documented in a target-specific manner via neuronal relays, significantly improving motor functions. Therefore, biomaterials can inspire beneficial biological activities for SCI repair.

Surgical Bone Implantation Technique for Rat Tibia Models of Diabetes and Osteoporosis.

The rat has long served as a valuable animal model in implant dentistry and orthopedics, particularly in studying the interactions between biomaterials and bone tissue. The rat's tibia is frequently chosen due to its easy surgical access through thin tissue layers (skin and muscle) and the flattened shape of its medial face, facilitating the surgical insertion of intraosseous devices. Additionally, this model enables the induction of specific diseases, mimicking various clinical conditions to assess biological responses to different implant conditions like geometry, surface texture, or biological cues. However, despite its robust cortical structure, certain intraosseous devices may require adaptations in design and size for successful implantation. Therefore, establishing standardized surgical methods for manipulating both soft and hard tissues in the implantation region is essential for ensuring proper implant or screw device placement, particularly in fields like implant dentistry and orthopedics. This study included eighty Sprague Dawley rats divided into two groups based on their respective diseases: Group 1 with osteoporosis and Group 2 with Type 2 Diabetes. Implantations were performed at 4 weeks and 12 weeks, with the same surgeon following a consistent surgical technique. A positive biological response was observed, indicating complete osseointegration of all implants placed. These results validate the success of the surgical protocol, which can be replicated for other studies and serve as a benchmark for the biomaterials community. Notably, osseointegration values remained stable at both 4 weeks and 12 weeks for both disease models, demonstrating a durable integration of the implant over time and emphasizing the establishment of an intimate bone connection as early as 4 weeks.