bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changing the Field: Listening to Black Women as Elite Performers and Champions of Lifelong Physical Activity
Authors: Davis Brooks DeAnne
Published: February 2025

Social and cultural experiences shaped by race and gender significantly influence physical activity engagement. The culture of elite athletics also plays a crucial role in shaping lifelong physical activity patterns. However, researchers often treat “Black women” and “athletes” as homogenous groups, focusing narrowly on barriers to physical activity while overlooking broader social factors. This limits our understanding of the dynamics shaping the physical activity experiences of individuals with intersecting identities. This study aimed to listen to Black women who were Division I elite track and field athletes to develop a contextualized understanding of factors influencing their postcompetitive physical activity. Using a womanist epistemology and data from four focus groups (N = 17), three themes emerged: Elite Performer Knowledge, People as Priority, and Self-Defined Presentation. Participants selected activities and settings informed by their elite training environment, favoring vigorous activities and competitive opportunities. They prioritized relationships with friends and family, choosing physical activities that supported these connections. Additionally, participants considered their personal ideals about body aesthetics and hairstyles, as well as related social expectations when making decisions about physical activity. Participants represented multiple cultural categories, with overlapping values and expectations, influencing their postcompetitive physical activity in diverse ways. Listening to their stories contributes to efforts to promote physical activity among Black women and athletes.
Glutamatergic argonaute2 promotes the formation of the neurovascular unit in mice
Authors: Sona Chandan , Yeh Yu-Te , Li Yunxiao , Liu Xiaoxuan , Ghosh Adhideb , Hinte Laura C. , Ku Min-Chi , Rathjen Thomas , Niendorf Thoralf , Yu Guoxing , Jia Shiqi , Kononenko Natalia L. , Hermann Andreas , Luo Jiankai , Lin Juntang , von Meyenn Ferdinand , Yan Xin , Poy Matthew N.
Published: February 2025

Proper formation of the complex neurovascular unit (NVU) along with the blood-brain barrier is critical for building and sustaining a healthy, functioning central nervous system. The RNA binding protein argonaute2 (Ago2) mediates microRNA (miRNA)–mediated gene silencing, which is critical for many facets of brain development, including NVU development. Here, we found that
Ago2
in glutamatergic neurons was critical for NVU formation in the developing cortices of mice. Glutamatergic neuron–specific loss of
Ago2
diminished synaptic formation, neuronal-to-endothelial cell contacts, and morphogenesis of the brain vasculature, ultimately compromising the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. Ago2 facilitated miRNA targeting of
phosphatase and tensin homolog
(
Pten
) mRNA, which encodes a phosphatase that modulates reelin-dependent phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)–Akt signaling within the glutamatergic subpopulation. Conditionally deleting
Pten
in
Ago2
-deficient neurons restored Akt2 phosphorylation as well as postnatal development and survival. Several mutations in
AGO2
impair small RNA silencing and are associated with Lessel-Kreienkamp syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder. When expressed in a neuronal cell line, these human
AGO2
loss-of-function variants failed to suppress PTEN, resulting in attenuated PI3K-Akt signaling, further indicating that dysregulation of Ago2 function may contribute to both impaired development and neurological disorders. Together, these results identify Ago2 as central to the engagement of neurons with blood vessels in the developing brain.
Supplemental Material: Genesis of high-grade skarn iron deposits: Insights from the Litun deposit in the Luxi district, eastern China
Authors: Zhang Zhaonian , Cao Yi , al. et
Published: February 2025

Figure S1: Field photographs, photomicrographs, and backscattered electron images showing textural features of the magnetite in the Litun deposit. Table S1: LA-ICP-MS trace element compositions of magnetite from the Litun skarn iron deposit. Table S2: Model results for Fe solubility in hydrothermal fluids. Table S3: Model results for Si solubility in hydrothermal fluids.
Scottish ovarian cancer forum
Authors: Cairns Mary , Ghaoui Dit Ebef Nidal
Published: February 2025

The project was to set up a multicentre collaborative real-time multidisciplinary review of women with advanced ovarian cancer (stages 3/4) being considered for surgery (upfront or interval). The forum met weekly via TEAMS with input from all relevant disciplines from the two cancer networks: North Cancer Alliance and South East Scotland Cancer Network. This included radiology, medical oncology, gynaecological oncology, clinical nurse specialists, colorectal and hepato-pancreatico-biliary surgeons. It was an educational forum to review radiology and assess the feasibility of surgical resection. The aim was to stratify and standardise surgical decision-making and increase surgical rates.
IN PURSUIT OF INNOVATION: THE NEED FOR RIGOROUS RESEARCH ON INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES
Authors: WU PEIQIAN
Published: February 2025

Innovation is widely recognised as a critical driver of societal progress, enabling solutions to complex problems and improving quality of life. Management and psychological research have increasingly focused on understanding individual differences in innovation, with factors such as personality traits, emotional intelligence, and social relationships identified as influential. Meanwhile, previous studies exposed several serious issues regarding analyses. This study focuses on issues related to reliability, validity, the application of Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), and visualisation. The findings highlight prevalent methodological issues, including inconsistencies in psychometric assessment and limitations in causal inference using cross-sectional data. Comparing SEM with classical path analysis, this study emphasises the importance of rigorous statistical methods to derive reliable insights. By incorporating longitudinal designs and robust model specifications, this paper provides actionable recommendations to strengthen methodological practices. These contributions are critical for advancing innovation psychology and supporting future research in this domain.
The Inhuman Element: Lessons on Play and Creativity from the Rise of Generative AI
Authors: Stahlke Samantha
Published: February 2025

This forum features game-practitioner perspectives on the interaction design process, techniques, and evaluation involved in creating playful experiences. We focus on how technology advancement, infrastructure, and constraints shape the player experience.
--- Pejman Mirza-Babaei, Editor
Adopting Emerging Technologies in Digital Government: A Multi-Case Analysis of Drivers, Enablers, and Challenges in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshahrani Abdulaziz
Published: February 2025

The adoption of emerging technologies is reshaping government operations. These technologies enhance efficiency and service delivery. This study explores the key drivers, enablers, and challenges influencing the adoption of these technologies in six government sectors. A qualitative multi-case study methodology was employed, combining interviews with project managers and a thematic analysis of project reports, government publications, and policy documents. The key findings highlight strategic alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 goals, operational efficiency demands, and enhanced accessibility as primary adoption drivers. Regulatory frameworks, leadership commitment, and infrastructure readiness emerged as critical enablers. Conversely, barriers to adoption include technical complexities in legacy system integration, interoperability challenges, financial limitations, and organizational resistance to change. This research contributes to the discourse on digital transformation in the government sector by identifying context-specific success factors and systemic obstacles. It proposes evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, emphasizing the need for adaptive governance models, phased infrastructure modernization, and stakeholder capacity-building initiatives. The contribution aims to inform sustainable technology adoption strategies in alignment with national development agendas.
Prognostic Circulatory Signature Metabolites of Stable Verses Unstable Angina: An Application of NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Gupta Ashish , Kashyap Shiridhar , Kumar Deepak , Meena Khushbhu , Kumar Anupam , Sahu Ankit Kumar , Kumar Sudeep , Kapoor Aditya
Published: February 2025

In spite of ongoing efforts to probe the metabolic signatures of stable (SA) from unstable (US) angina, it is concerning that to date there are no clinically validated circulatory biochemical signatures against the intrinsic anatomical changes that are screened by invasive coronary angiography. Hence the aim of this study is to generate precise biochemical fingerprints using filtered serum-based metabolomics and high-throughput NMR spectroscopy to accurately distinguish the metabolic signatures of patients suffering with SA or US angina. The study includes 118 filtered serum samples from patients suffering with US (n = 50) and SA (n = 68). High-resolution NMR spectroscopy was used to assess the metabolic remodelling in these cohorts. Subsequently, principle component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least square discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and artificial neural network (ANN) analysis was adapted to engender a precise prediction model. Analysis of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was conducted to determine the clinical usefulness of metabolic markers. The outcome revealed that the metabolic profile for the underlying disease is characterized by altered metabolite levels in UA relative to SA. Creatinine, 3-OH butyrate, and aspartate level could differentiate 100% of UA from SA with 100% sensitivity and specificity. To monitor and determine UA from SA patients, 1H NMR-based filtered serum metabolic profiling seems to be a promising, less invasive, and faster investigative approach.
Supplementary figure 3 from Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Senescent Osteocytes That Trigger Bone Destruction in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Kaur Japneet , Adhikari Manish , Sabol Hayley M. , Anloague Aric , Khan Sharmin , Kurihara Noriyoshi , Diaz-delCastillo Marta , Andreasen Christina Møller , Barnes Charles Lowry , Stambough Jeffrey B. , Palmieri Michela , Reyes-Castro Olivia , Zarrer Jennifer , Taipaleenmäki Hanna , Ambrogini Elena , Almeida Maria , O’Brien Charles A. , Nookaew Intawat , Delgado-Calle Jesus
Published: February 2025

Supplementary figure 3
Supplementary figure 15 from Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Senescent Osteocytes That Trigger Bone Destruction in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Kaur Japneet , Adhikari Manish , Sabol Hayley M. , Anloague Aric , Khan Sharmin , Kurihara Noriyoshi , Diaz-delCastillo Marta , Andreasen Christina Møller , Barnes Charles Lowry , Stambough Jeffrey B. , Palmieri Michela , Reyes-Castro Olivia , Zarrer Jennifer , Taipaleenmäki Hanna , Ambrogini Elena , Almeida Maria , O’Brien Charles A. , Nookaew Intawat , Delgado-Calle Jesus
Published: February 2025

Supplementary figure 15
Supplementary figure 13 from Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Senescent Osteocytes That Trigger Bone Destruction in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Kaur Japneet , Adhikari Manish , Sabol Hayley M. , Anloague Aric , Khan Sharmin , Kurihara Noriyoshi , Diaz-delCastillo Marta , Andreasen Christina Møller , Barnes Charles Lowry , Stambough Jeffrey B. , Palmieri Michela , Reyes-Castro Olivia , Zarrer Jennifer , Taipaleenmäki Hanna , Ambrogini Elena , Almeida Maria , O’Brien Charles A. , Nookaew Intawat , Delgado-Calle Jesus
Published: February 2025

Supplementary figure 13
Supplementary figure 12 from Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Senescent Osteocytes That Trigger Bone Destruction in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Kaur Japneet , Adhikari Manish , Sabol Hayley M. , Anloague Aric , Khan Sharmin , Kurihara Noriyoshi , Diaz-delCastillo Marta , Andreasen Christina Møller , Barnes Charles Lowry , Stambough Jeffrey B. , Palmieri Michela , Reyes-Castro Olivia , Zarrer Jennifer , Taipaleenmäki Hanna , Ambrogini Elena , Almeida Maria , O’Brien Charles A. , Nookaew Intawat , Delgado-Calle Jesus
Published: February 2025

Supplementary figure 12
Solvent exposure, genetic susceptibility, and risk of bladder cancer
Authors: Tadesse Deborah A. , Rothman Nathaniel , Xie Shuai , Hurwitz Lauren M. , Friesen Melissa C. , Baris Dalsu , Schwenn Molly , Johnson Alison , Karagas Margaret R. , Silverman Debra T. , Koutros Stella
Published: February 2025

The New England Bladder Cancer Study (NEBCS) has recently reported an increased bladder cancer risk with occupational exposure to mononuclear aromatic organic solvents, including exposure to benzene, toluene, and xylene and their combination BTX. However, the mechanisms by which BTX influence bladder cancer are unclear. Here, we evaluated the interaction between BTX and genetic markers in known bladder cancer susceptibility loci and in variants shown to impact the metabolism of these solvents. We used multivariate logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p-values for multiplicative interaction in 1182 cases and 1408 controls from a population-based case-control study from New England. Lifetime occupational exposure to benzene, toluene, xylene, and BTX were assessed using occupational histories and exposure-oriented modules in conjunction with a job-exposure matrix. Buccal cells from mouthwash samples were used to conduct genotyping. Subjects with the highest cumulative exposure to benzene and who carried a risk allele in rs72826305 (CASC15) had an increased risk of bladder cancer (OR= 2.56, 95% CI: 1.28-5.12) compared to those never exposed with no risk alleles (p-interaction=0.03). Additional suggestive joint effects with benzene were evident for those carrying genetic risk variants in FGFR3 (p-value =0.01) and GSTT1 (p-interaction =0.007). Bladder cancer risk is higher among those exposed to BTX-containing solvents who also harbor common variants in CASC15, FGFR3 and GSTT1, adding to the evidence of a plausible link between these exposures and bladder cancer risk.
The Problem with Syngeneic Mouse Tumor Models
Authors: Lonberg Nils
Published: February 2025

The advent of syngeneic mouse tumor models provided the scientific foundation for cancer immunotherapies now in widespread use. However, in many respects, these models do not faithfully recapitulate the interactions between cancer cells and the immune systems of human patients who have solid tumors because they represent a very early stage in the immune response to the newly transplanted cancer cells compared with the relatively mature stage found in human patients at the time of treatment. The lack of translatability of syngeneic models is probably responsible for many failed clinical trials conducted at considerable expense, involving far too many patients with cancer who received no benefit. Better mouse models would substantially accelerate the pace of discovery of new immunotherapies. Until these models emerge, a better understanding of the differences between the existing syngeneic models and human cancers may provide a more efficient path for moving experimental drugs into clinical development. To accomplish this, we must consider mice transplanted with syngeneic tumor cells to be in vivo assays, potentially useful for understanding the mechanism of action of immunotherapies rather than disease models.
Revolução das escravas brancas
Authors: Barros José D'Assunção
Published: February 2025

Texto de criação literária.
Nordeste Caleidoscópio: depoimentos
Authors: Fernandes Ana Clara da Costa Carvalho , Motta Lucas Branco de Araujo , Almeida Magno da Guarda
Published: February 2025

Depoimentos das escritoras Adelaide Ivánova e Manuela Cecília, do artista plástico Heway  Verçosa e do pesquisador Joel Vieira da Silva Filho.
Sex Differences in Psychosocial Factors and Angina in Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease
Authors: Hausvater Anaïs , Anthopolos Rebecca , Seltzer Alexa , Spruill Tanya M. , Spertus John A. , Peteiro Jesus , Lopez‐Sendon Jose Luis , Čelutkienė Jelena , Demchenko Elena A. , Kedev Sasko , Beleslin Branko D , Sidhu Mandeep S. , Grodzinsky Anna , Fleg Jerome L. , Maron David J. , Hochman Judith S. , Reynolds Harmony R. ,   the CIAO‐ISCHEMIA Research Group
Published: February 2025

Background

Women with chronic coronary disease have more frequent angina and worse health status than men, despite having less coronary artery disease (CAD). We examined whether perceived stress and depressive symptoms mediate sex differences in angina, and whether this relationship differs in the setting of obstructive CAD or ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA).

Methods

We analyzed the association between sex, stress (Perceived Stress Scale‐4) and depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire‐8) on angina‐related health status (Seattle Angina Questionnaire [SAQ]) at enrollment in the ISCHEMIA (International Study of Comparative Health Effectiveness With Medical and Invasive Approaches) trial and CIAO‐ISCHEMIA (Changes in Ischemia and Angina Over 1 Year Among ISCHEMIA Trial Screen Failures With No Obstructive CAD on Coronary CT [Computed Tomography] Angiography) ancillary study.

Results

Scores for the SAQ, Perceived Stress Scale‐4, and Patient Health Questionnaire‐8 were available in 1626 participants (N=1439 CAD and N=187 INOCA). Women had lower (worse) SAQ‐7 summary scores than men in both CAD and INOCA cohorts (CAD: median 76 [25th, 75th percentiles 60, 90] versus 83 [70, 96],
P
<0.001; INOCA: 80 [64,89] versus 85 [75, 93],
P
=0.012). Higher stress and depressive symptoms were associated with worse angina in both cohorts. Female sex, Perceived Stress Scale‐4 score, and Patient Health Questionnaire‐8 score were each independently associated with lower SAQ summary score, but CAD versus INOCA cohort was not. There was no interaction between sex and stress (−0.39 [95% CI, –1.01 to 0.23]) or sex and depression (−0.00 [95% CI, –0.53 to 0.53]) on SAQ summary score.

Conclusions

High stress and depressive symptoms were independently associated with worse angina and poorer health status, without interaction with sex with or without obstructive CAD. Factors other than stress or depression contribute to worse health status in women with obstructive CAD or INOCA.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifiers: NCT02347215, NCT01471522.
Priestly Politics
Authors: Peres Caio
Published: February 2025

According to some scholarly consensus, the Priestly writings advance privilege and power for a group of established priests. From a political perspective, representatives of this consensus see in the Priestly writings the promotion of a centralized sociopolitical order, with priests holding political control over the Achaemenid province of Yehud, or at least attempting to do so. This article analyses two important concepts used in this characterization: hegemony and theocracy. From a more precise definition of hegemony, as found in Antonio Gramsci’s work, and theocracy, as coined by Flavius Josephus, this article shows that Priestly cultic instructions align well with the utopian and democratizing ideals that serve as a critique of every form of centralized systems of power.
“On Wings like Eagles!” (Isa 40:31)
Authors: Kozlova Ekaterina E.
Published: February 2025

Faunal imagery in ancient literature has been the focus of many discussions, so much so that the increased interest in such rhetoric has been recognized as “an animal turn” in a number of disciplines, including biblical studies. This article examines the symbolism of a bird’s wings in ancient Near Eastern traditions and the Hebrew Bible. First, it surveys images of fragility in social, religious, and political domains related through wings in various states of dysfunction—bound, broken, and torn off. Then it examines images of empowerment denoted by means of strengthened, reinforced, and outspread wings. Building on previous studies of transformative symbols from the natural world, the primary focus of this essay is on the motif of restoration. To this end, it analyzes the striking rhetoric in Isa 40:29–31, i.e., the return of God’s people from captivity in the manner of soaring eagles, and in the Sumerian poem Lugalbanda and the Anzud Bird, i.e., Lugalbanda’s supernatural bird-like travel.
From State Architects to Victims
Authors: Mohammed Awol Ali
Published: February 2025

This study critically examines the massacre and ethnic cleansing of the Amhara people in Ethiopia, utilizing a qualitative research methodology with a phenomenological design. It analyzes the impact of colonial narratives on the Amhara and the subsequent ethnicization of political discourse, which has culminated in the massacres of ethnic Amharas. The Italian invasion of Ethiopia not only sought to reframe the nation as a colonial entity but also propagated divisive rhetoric that positioned the Amhara as historical oppressors. This narrative was adopted by emerging ethnonationalist groups such as the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (eplf), Tigray People’s Liberation Front (tplf), and Oromo People’s Liberation Front (oplf). The ascendance of the tplf to state power in 1991 provided an opportunity to implement these narratives against the Amhara. These colonial-era narratives continue to resonate today, particularly following 1991 when violence against the Amhara escalated dramatically due to the actions of ethnonationalist groups in Ethiopia. Being identified as “ethnic Amhara” has increasingly become synonymous with a death sentence, as evidenced by widespread reports of violence. The study emphasizes that these ongoing atrocities are not merely isolated incidents but rather part of a systematic campaign against the Amhara people, highlighting the urgent need for global awareness and intervention to address these human rights violations.
Long-term aerobic-resistance combined training improves health in young adult women by improving inflammatory mediators
Authors: Ihsan N. , Sugiharto S. , Goenawan H. , Kartiko C.D. , Okilanda A. , Merawati D. , Sepriadi S. , Sari A.K. , Pranoto A.
Published: February 2025

Obesity has become a global crisis, raising significant concerns about the future quality of human resources. Therefore, the development of effective management strategies for obesity remains a priority to mitigate its adverse impacts. This study aimed to demonstrate the long-term and consistent effects of aerobic-resistance combined training on improving the health of obese individuals by using inflammatory mediators as biomarkers to assess health quality. A total of 25 obese women aged 20-30 years were recruited and underwent an 8-week aerobic-resistance combined training intervention. ELISAs were used to evaluate the interleukin (IL)-6, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-10 levels in all the samples. Statistical analysis techniques, including paired sample t tests and independent sample t tests, were applied with a significance level of 5%. The results revealed a significant reduction in the IL-6 and TNF-α levels and an increase in the IL-10 levels before and after aerobic-resistance combined training (). Additionally, we observed a reduction in the IL-6 and TNF-α levels and an increase in the IL-10 levels between the groups (). These findings indicate that long-term and consistent aerobic-resistance combined training is effective in improving inflammatory biomarkers, thus potentially serving as an effective therapeutic modality to reduce the negative impacts of obesity.
Probiotic enhanced immunity and mental wellbeing of generally healthy women: a randomised, placebo-controlled and double-blind study
Authors: Nisaa A.A. , Mageswary U. , Pei X. , Kadir M.N. , Oon C.-E. , Rajendran D. , Tan J.-J. , Roslan F.F. , Balasubramaniam S.D. , Sany S. , Ismail E.H.E. , Azizan A.S. , Liong M.-T.
Published: February 2025

The elucidation of the gut-brain axis underscores the critical role of probiotics in enhancing mental wellbeing through immunomodulatory mechanisms. We thus aimed to investigate the effects of a probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Probio87 (orally administered one sachet/day; 9 log cfu/sachet) or placebo for 12-weeks, on immunity and brain health, via possible mechanisms of inflammation and neurotransmitter functions in a generally healthy women population. A parallel, randomised, double-blind and placebo-controlled study was performed in generally healthy women (n = 112). Women were randomised to either the probiotic (n = 58, mean age 38.38 ± 0.85 years) or placebo (n = 54, mean age 38.91 ± 0.98 years) for 12-weeks. Immunity and mental wellbeing profiles were evaluated via questionnaires and blood gene expression profiles. Over the study period, the Probio87 group demonstrated a better impact on general women’s health as compared to the control group, as measured by the Women’s Health Questionnaire (WHQ), particularly in domains related to depressed mood, somatic symptoms, anxiety, sexual health, sleep, and menstrual health. The probiotic effects were exhibited later, typically after 6-weeks of intervention, taking over placebo effects that primarily faded off during early stages of the intervention. Regarding immunity, women in the Probio87 group exhibited upregulation of more immunity-related genes than those in the placebo group, primarily associated with NK cells and anti-inflammatory effects via IL-10. Additionally, Probio87 provided gut-brain axis benefits by enhancing the actions of neurotransmitters serotonin and GABA, while also balancing hunger and satiety. The probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Probio87 significantly improved general health, mood, anxiety, and sleep in a generally healthy women population over 12 weeks. It enhanced immune function through increased expression of immunity-related genes and positively modulated neurotransmitters involved in brain health. All these findings supported from our WHQ data, where the administration of probiotic improved domains related to depressed mood, anxiety, sexual behaviour and sleep problems.

The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier number: NCT05302687.
Gastrointestinal stability of Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV)-inhibitory peptides identified in Tenebrio molitor
Authors: Berraquero-Garcı́a C. , Garcı́a-Moreno P.J. , Pérez-Gálvez R. , Espejo-Carpio F.J. , Guadix E.M.
Published: February 2025

The use of insects recently emerged as an alternative source of high-quality protein for the obtention of peptides with a wide range of bioactivities, such as antidiabetic, while offering a more environmentally sustainable approach. However, antidiabetic DPP-IV inhibitory peptides are often rich in leucine, making them susceptible to degradation by pepsin and chymotrypsin during gastrointestinal digestion. This study uses bioinformatic prediction and in vitro activity assays to identify DPP-IV inhibitory peptides within the Tenebrio molitor proteome and assess their bioavailability. Conducting homology analysis, three peptides – ILAP, FLQP, and APVAH – were identified as complete matches, but efficient release of the sequences through targeted hydrolysis remains a significant challenge. Notably, a substantial decline in the DDP-IV inhibitory activity was found for the peptide fragments generated after digestion, compared to the original parent peptides. The inhibitory mechanisms of all three peptides were examined, revealing that mixed inhibition was associated with enhanced activity. Insect-derived peptides, such as APVAH with an IC50 of 0.013 ± 0.001 mg peptide/mL, may serve as effective DPP-IV inhibitors for diabetes management. However, protecting these peptides from gastrointestinal proteases is essential due to observed activity loss in digested fragments.
“I Am Chinese, Not Chinese”: Some Implications of an Ambiguity and Proposals for Alternatives
Authors: Shih Fang-long
Published: February 2025

Prompted by the meme, “我是華人不是中國人,” and playing on its (machine-) translation into English as “I am Chinese, not Chinese,” this article explores how in English the word “Chinese” ambiguates what are two separately named concepts in Chinese: 華人 (Huaren, referring to Chinese ethnicity) and 中國人 (Zhongguoren, referring to Chinese citizenship). Within the prc Firewall, the official designation is: 華人也是中國人, translated as Chinese are also Chinese), which co-implicates the two terms, endowing them with a singular, fixed, and primordialist sense. Beyond the Firewall, there are suggestions that 華人and 中國人should be recognized as separable terms, with 華人as a hybrid, hyphenated, and localized notion, indicative of some changing senses of identity. A new English coinage, Huabrid (華裔 Huayi) may help to encapsulate multiple and hybrid senses of how 華裔/Huayi/Chinese/Huabrid can be thought of as separable from 中國人/Zhongguoren/Chinese.
Zeuxine drukyulensis (Orchidaceae), a new jewel orchid from Bhutan Himalaya
Authors: GYELTSHEN PHUB , RABGAY KINLEY , TOBGAY KEZANG , KUMAR PANKAJ
Published: February 2025

An interesting new species of jewel orchid, Zeuxine drukyulensis is described and illustrated from warm broadleaved forests in western Bhutan. It is closely allied to Zeuxine nervosa and Zeuxine rolfeana, however, differs in various morphological characters, primarily the structure, size and colour of the flower. The new species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD) as per the IUCN Red List guidelines.
5. Expanding research ethics for inclusive and transdisciplinary research
Authors: Meadow Alison M. , Wilmer Hailey , Ferguson Daniel B.
Published: February 2025

The societal and environmental problems that arise from stressors such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and the escalation of resource extraction and pollution have driven many toward research approaches that reach beyond standard Western science to include multiple knowledges, multiple disciplines, and multiple methods of collecting and interpreting data. We refer to these research approaches collectively as transdisciplinary (Td) research. In this chapter we describe four interrelated but distinct themes (representation, self-determination, deference, and reciprocity) and two cross-cutting themes (ethics beyond human dimensions and research skills) that we believe can be used to guide researchers and research teams toward a more expansive approach to research ethics. While our focus is explicitly on Td, much of what we describe below is relevant to interdisciplinary science or engaged and collaborative research more broadly.
12. On the dialogue between ethnographic field work and statistical modelling
Authors: Lebek Karen , Krueger Tobias
Published: February 2025

Ethnographic and statistical methods have very different epistemological underpinnings; ethnographic research is interpretive, while statistical research is generalizing. Our case study combines these two contrasting approaches and brings them into an eye-level conversation with each other. We conceptualized a Bayesian statistical model for Rainwater Harvesting Mode in rural South Africa, based on hypothetical relations derived from ethnographic field observations. The model pointed to spurious relations and that new hypotheses from fieldwork helped explain. Mixing the two methods means using one to critically reflect on and challenge the other, lending robustness to the research process and the results in a form of triangulation. Iterating ethnographic field work and statistical modelling is useful for learning about particular places. Importantly, we do not see statistical modelling as the end point that ethnographies may provide hypotheses for, but as a recurring step of quantification that generates valuable questions for subsequent ethnographic field work.
14. The interface between hydrological modelling and political ecology
Authors: Rusca Maria , Mazzoleni Maurizio
Published: February 2025

This chapter considers the potential of models to work as a boundary object between the hydrological sciences and political ecology. First, we discuss how political ecology and science and technology studies have critiqued mainstream perspectives on science as neutral, and shielded from political influences and power dynamics. In response to this critique, we propose two alternative approaches to hydrological modelling, showing how methods can be mixed in ways that make modelling potentially more democratic, reflexive and situated. The first approach concerns participatory modelling and its potential to redistribute power and ‘expertise’ across different knowledge holders. The second concerns an engagement with political ecology to develop models that are more attuned to the role of power in shaping water-related development challenges and the uneven outcomes thereof. We conclude that power-sensitive modelling has the potential to generate insights to enable more just water policies and actions.
22. Archival methods
Authors: Cope Meghan
Published: February 2025

Archival methods involve using records of the past to understand historical dimensions of social relationships, economic processes, the production of spaces/places, migration, the physical environment and other geographic topics of interest. Environmental researchers have blended diverse methods and data sources across the human-physical spectrum to weave together meaningful, synthesized interpretations of social and natural phenomena. Researchers should exercise caution when investigating the past through the traces left behind, but the spirit of ‘detective work’ is one of the benefits of such research.
25. Descriptive statistics
Authors: Lane Stuart
Published: February 2025

Descriptive statistics refer to a basic set of measures that can be derived from data to characterize those data. They make statements about the data and not the population from which the data are derived, and this is what distinguishes them from inferential statistics. They are often an entry point in research for generating ideas about your data but are also important for helping to decide what kinds of inferential statistics your research project should use. All descriptive statistics need care, not only because they may not be representative of the population they are describing, but also because statistics have considerable power in environmental management.
26. Environmental modelling
Authors: Kroeger Tobias
Published: February 2025

Environmental modelling represents environmental processes using mathematical equations and eventually computer programmes. These models allow virtual experiments on a system to gain understanding of its dynamics and to predict system behaviour, which are useful for research, policy and practice. A model, however, is never neutral but always reproduces particular disciplinary norms, habits and political, economic and technical contexts.
28. Geochronological Methods
Authors: King Georgina E. , Abbott Peter M.
Published: February 2025

Geochronological methods provide information on the timing, rates and frequency of environmental processes and events that occur over timescales that exceed laboratory measurements and/or human observation. This chapter discusses the principles of geochronological methods, their applications and limitations.
36. Participatory methods
Authors: Mokos Jennifer
Published: February 2025

Participatory methods broaden research by directly engaging communities in knowledge production. This chapter provides an overview of the importance, guidelines, and ethical considerations of participatory methods for researchers who are interested in employing a collaborative approach to address social and biophysical environmental issues.
Cancer and Trauma Collide: Injury Patterns and Outcomes in the Pediatric Trauma Patient With Cancer
Authors: Sullivan Brittany , Schomberg John , Haduong Josephine , Bose Sourav K. , Guner Yigit S. , Giron Andreina , Gholizadeh Maryam , Yu Peter T.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

There is a lack of data regarding pediatric trauma patients with a cancer diagnosis. The purpose of our study is to analyze demographics, ED admissions, procedures, and characteristics pertaining to this population.

Methods

The NTDB database was queried from 2007 to 2022. This study collected 1,726,681 trauma admissions ≤18. Of these patients, 397 were identified with a cancer diagnosis and had received chemotherapy within 30 days of their trauma admission.

Results

The median age of trauma patients with cancer was 9 years old vs 12 years old for non-cancer patients ( P = 0.14), but cancer patients had a longer length of stay compared to patients without a cancer diagnosis (4.3 +/− 10 vs 3 +/− 5.7, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

We conclude that pediatric trauma patients with a cancer diagnosis had a longer length of stay despite a similar injury severity score, were less likely to sustain spinal cord injuries, but more likely to receive transfusions when compared to non-cancer trauma patients. There is need for further research regarding traumatic injuries in this patient population.
Risk assessment of existing buildings in tunnel construction based on an improved cumulative prospect theory method
Authors: Chang Lixin , Nordin Norhaiza , Gu Xinhua , Zhao Ye
Published: February 2025

As urbanization in China continues to rise, an increasing number of cities are constructing subway tunnels. However, due to the complexity and ambiguity of subway tunnel construction, there is a lack of precise methods to assess the impact of these constructions on surrounding buildings. Consequently, this study analyzes and summarizes past experiences and proposes the IVTSFS-CPT-EDAS model based on the CPT-EDAS evaluation method. This model establishes a risk assessment approach specifically for the impact of subway tunnel construction on existing buildings. The model's process was validated through a real-world case study, including a sensitivity analysis to verify its effectiveness and feasibility. The findings of this study indicate: (1) The IVTSFS-CPT-EDAS model can more comprehensively and delicately replicate the actual decision-making environment, enhancing the accuracy of the model. (2) The analysis of expert evaluations indicates that improper material and equipment configuration, inadequate excavation pressure control, and non-compliance of the stratum solubility coefficient with requirements are the primary risk factors affecting the building. (3) The advantages of the proposed model over other approaches and the accuracy enhancement of the assessment results due to the improvements in the evaluation method were demonstrated through sensitivity analysis and comparative evaluation. This research is expected to provide valuable insights for the scientific management of the impacts of subway tunnel construction on nearby structures.
An electronic pre-visit agenda-setting questionnaire in ambulatory palliative care is feasible and acceptable to patients, care partners, and clinicians: A mixed methods evaluation
Authors: Wilson Matthew M , Broglio Kathleen , Vergo Maxwell T , Barnato Amber E , Cullinan Amelia M , Doherty Julie R , King Joel R , Devito Anna Marie , Holmes Anne B , Hinson Jennifer J , Holt Kimberley R , Holthoff Megan M , Kobin Emily G , Legere Alaina R , Nelson Eugene C , O’Donnell Elizabeth A , Saunders Catherine H , Tomlin Stephanie C , Kirkland Kathryn B , Van Citters Aricca D
Published: February 2025

Background:

To provide patient-centered healthcare for people with serious illness, healthcare teams must elicit needs, goals, preferences, and values from patients and care partners.

Aim:

Describe feasibility and acceptability of an electronic pre-visit agenda-setting questionnaire for patients and care partners to identify these topics before ambulatory palliative care visits.

Design:

Concurrent mixed-methods formative evaluation of questionnaire feasibility and acceptability. We extracted questionnaire responses and patient characteristics from electronic health records and sent anonymous post-visit patient experience surveys. Researchers conducted thematic analysis on semi-structured interviews with participants.

Setting/participants:

Patient participants had an active patient portal account and ambulatory visit at a free-standing palliative care clinic in a tertiary academic medical center in rural Northeastern United States between June 2021 and March 2023. Clinic staff included physicians, nurse practitioner, social worker, nurses, and scheduling secretary. Most visits were conducted via video or telephone.

Results:

Completion rate was 50% for pre-visit questionnaires (2107 of 4204 visits). Patients completing post-visit surveys (following 859 visits) reported the pre-visit questionnaire was easy to complete (75%) and helped their conversations with clinicians (79%). Patients who believed their clinician reviewed their responses rated shared decision-making higher (82%) than those who did not (59%). Semi-structured interviews with five patients, two care partners, and seven clinicians identified four themes: the questionnaire engages patients in pre-visit planning, incorporates care partners into the care team, facilitates care for the care partner, and improves perceived efficiency and care quality.

Conclusions:

An electronic pre-visit questionnaire was feasible and acceptable in ambulatory palliative care visits.
Exploring Help-Seeking Behaviors among Black Sexual Minority Cisgender Women in Late Adolescence: The Role of Abuse Experiences
Authors: Butler Lauren V. , Sandoval Cassidy M. , Dawson Charlotte A. , Heron Kristin E.
Published: February 2025

Sexual minority youth (e.g., lesbian, queer, bisexual) encounter higher rates of abuse compared to their heterosexual peers. Similarly, Black youth are disproportionately affected by adverse experiences, including abuse. Seeking help after experiencing abuse has been shown to improve both mental and physical health outcomes. There is a lack of research on how the intersection of these identities affects help-seeking behaviors when experiencing different types of abuse. To address this gap, our study analyzed national data from 716 Black cisgender sexual minority women (SMW) aged 18 to 21 ( Mage = 19.5) who participated in the Healthy Minds Study and examined the likelihood of seeking formal and informal support based on past year emotional, physical, and sexual abuse experiences. Formal help-seeking was assessed by whether participants received counseling or therapy, and informal help-seeking was defined as seeking support from a non-professional source (e.g., family member, friend, and significant other). We found participants who reported abuse experiences, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or combined abuse experiences, were significantly more likely to seek informal support, with odds ratios of 2.20, 1.66, 2.77, and 2.38, respectively. However, there was no difference in formal help-seeking compared to participants without abuse experiences. Specific sources of informal support sought were explored descriptively by participants with and without abuse experiences, showing that participants who experienced abuse primarily sought informal support from friends, family members, significant others, and roommates. This trend was consistent among participants who did not report any abuse experiences. Overall, findings suggest that there were no significant differences in the likelihood of seeking formal support regardless of participants’ abuse history. However, those who experienced abuse were significantly more likely to seek informal support compared to those who did not. Findings suggest Black adolescent SMW who have endured abuse may face barriers accessing formal support networks; therefore, targeted interventions are needed.
The role of employers in the assessment process in WIL: Students’ and employers’ perspectives
Authors: Pažur Aničić Katarina , Divjak Blaženka , Ferns Sonia J
Published: February 2025

Meaningful assessment and feedback are key principles of effective teaching and learning in higher education. In the context of Work Integrated Learning (WIL), assessment is more challenging as it involves external partners, for example employers. Employers can contribute to the assessment process and give valuable feedback to students, but the important question is how and to what extent? This study explored the perspectives of students and employers on the benefits and challenges of involving employers in the assessment process. Feedback was gathered from 39 students and five employers following students’ participation in simulated WIL in an academic environment, in the form of work-related projects. Employers’ role in the assessment process was predominantly perceived as a mentor and advisor, and the majority of students and employers agreed that assessment criteria should be co-created between teachers and employers. Students appreciated employers’ feedback as it provided a real-world perspective. The themes of Clarity of expectations, Quality of feedback, Authenticity/real-world, Awareness of business dynamics, and Career development resonated across students’ perceptions of the impact of employer feedback. This paper contributes to establishing mutual understanding of meaningful assessment among stakeholders (teachers, students and employers) participating in WIL learning experiences.
Detection of Mycoplasmopsis (Mycoplasma) bovis in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded bovine lung sections by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization
Authors: Brown Matthew , Laney Zackary , Tabatabai Laila , Hassebroek Anna , Lahmers Kevin , LeCuyer Tessa , Uzal Francisco A. , Carvallo Francisco R.
Published: February 2025

The bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) is a multifactorial disease of economic importance in cattle involving viral and bacterial agents and several environmental and host-associated predisposing factors. Mycoplasmopsis ( Mycoplasma) bovis is frequently detected in BRDC cases, but the role of this bacterium in the pathogenesis of BRDC is not completely understood. We explored the utility of routine histopathology and compared immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) in pneumonic bovine lung tissue samples for the detection of M. bovis infection. Samples were analyzed for M. bovis using mycoplasma bacterial culture (screening test), H&E staining, IHC, and ISH. We found that “compatible histologic lesions” are not entirely predictive of the presence of M. bovis on culture, IHC, or ISH, and also that there was no statistical difference between IHC and ISH for detecting M. bovis. We conclude that IHC and ISH can be used interchangeably to detect M. bovis infections in pneumonic bovine lung.
Challenges of Remarriage: A Qualitative Study of Remarried Individuals’ Perceptions in Blended Families
Authors: Ayadi Nader , Fatehizade Maryam , Etemadi Ozra
Published: February 2025

Remarriage can be seen as a way to reduce the trauma experienced after divorce. However, facing failure in remarriage not only intensifies the emotional and mental state of the divorced individual but also hinders post-traumatic growth. Therefore, this study aims to identify the challenges and issues of remarriage after divorce among Iranian remarried individuals. In this qualitative research, 16 remarried men and women from Ardabil, Iran participated. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling method. Data was collected through semistructured interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's approach. Two main themes and 19 subthemes were identified from the data. The first theme, intrapersonal challenges, included 10 categories, while the second theme, interpersonal challenges, included nine categories. The findings suggest that post-traumatic growth in divorced individuals after remarriage should be explored through comprehensive interventions that address the identified themes. This research aims to contribute to the development of a specialized premarital counseling program for divorced individuals preparing to remarry. Understanding the needs and challenges of remarriage can help individuals make the necessary cognitive and emotional preparations before entering into a new marriage.