bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of shock on perceptual learning in a virtual reality environment
Authors: Cass John , Fu Wing Hong , Li Yanping , Cahill Larissa , Weidemann Gabrielle
Published: January 2025

This study investigates two aspects of visual processing and perceptual learning: the impact of training on the human visual system’s ability to integrate information across the visual field and the influence of aversive electrodermal stimulation on perceptual performance in an orientation averaging task. Through a ten-day training regimen that manipulated the set-size of Gabor element arrays, we observe consistent degradation in orientation averaging performance with increasing set-size, with training leading to overall improvements in accuracy and response times, but only a marginal interaction with set-size (for response times). This suggests that training-related enhancements likely operate at a post-integration and/or decisional stage of processing rather than at an early encoding stage. The second inquiry explores the effects of aversive stimuli on perceptual learning-based orientation averaging performance, with participants exposed to ‘no shock’, ‘performance-contingent shock’ or ‘random shock’ conditions. Our results show that while performance improved across training there was no discernible effect of the shock condition on task accuracy or response times and no evidence of an interaction with set size. State anxiety levels, measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, indicated that whilst anxiety was elevated in both shock conditions, this was not associated with variations on orientation averaging performance. We also find that visual performance feedback, represented by a health bar, significantly influenced accuracy, but not response times, regardless of the presence or absence of shock. This unexpected impact of visual feedback suggests potential roles for attention and motivation in perceptual performance.

Public significance statement

This study enhances our understanding of how training and stress influence visual processing and perceptual learning, revealing critical insights into the mechanisms that govern how we integrate visual information. By exploring the effects of acute stress and visual feedback, our findings suggest potential applications for improving learning outcomes in various contexts, from virtual to real-world environments.
Muscle Cathepsin B treatment improves behavioral and neurogenic deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Pinto Alejandro , Haytural Hazal , Loss Cassio , Alvarez Claudia , Ertas Asude , Curtis Olivia , Williams Alyssa R , Murphy Grayson , Salleng Ken , Gografe Sylvia , Altintas Ali , Kafri Tal , Barres Romain , Deshmukh Atul Shahaji , van Praag Henriette
Published: January 2025

Muscle secretes factors during exercise that enhance cognition. Myokine Cathepsin B (Ctsb) is linked to memory function, but its role in neurodegenerative disease is unclear. Here we show that AAV-vector-mediated Ctsb overexpression in skeletal muscle in an Alzheimer's Disease (AD) mouse model (APP/PS1), improves motor coordination, memory function and adult hippocampal neurogenesis, while plaque pathology and neuroinflammation remain unchanged. Additionally, in AD mice, Ctsb treatment modifies hippocampal, muscle and plasma proteomic profiles to resemble that of wildtype controls. Conversely, in wildtype mice, Ctsb expression causes memory deficits and results in protein profiles across tissues that are comparable to AD control mice. In AD mice, Ctsb treatment increases the abundance of hippocampal proteins involved in mRNA metabolism and protein synthesis, including those relevant to adult hippocampal neurogenesis and memory function. Furthermore, Ctsb treatment enhances plasma metabolic and mitochondrial processes, and reduces inflammatory responses. In muscle, Ctsb expression elevates protein translation in AD mice, whereas in wildtype mice mitochondrial proteins decrease. Overall, the biological changes in the treatment groups are consistent with effects on memory function. Thus, skeletal muscle Ctsb application has potential as an AD therapeutic intervention.
SwiftMHC: A High-Speed Attention Network for MHC-Bound Peptide Identification and 3D Modeling
Authors: Baakman Coos , Crocioni Giulia , Rademaker Daniel T. , Frühbuß David , Aarts Yannick J. M. , Xue Li C.
Published: January 2025

Cancer immunotherapies show promise in eliminating tumors, but identifying tumor peptides that bind patient MHC proteins to trigger immune responses remains challenging. The vast peptide-MHC diversity makes experimental identification costly, emphasizing the need for computational predictions.

To address scalability, we introduce SwiftMHC, an attention network for identifying MHC-bound peptides and generating all-atom 3D structures simultaneously. SwiftMHC processes cases in 0.01 to 2.2 seconds on a single A100 GPU, overcoming the speed bottleneck of structure-based approaches. It rivals or surpasses state-of-the-art tools, including an AlphaFold-based approach, in binding affinity prediction and 3D modeling.

SwiftMHC showcases the advantages of task-specific AI trained on physics-derived synthetic data for speed and precision. Optimized for HLA-A*0201 9-mers, it can be adapted to other MHC alleles. Its speed and accuracy may enable the community to identify peptides distinct from self-peptides at T-cell exposed surfaces, ensuring safer therapies, expanding immunotherapy targets, and accelerating development.
A bright synthetic near-infrared luciferin enhances the capabilities of deep-tissue bioluminescence imaging using firefly luciferases
Authors: Saito-Moriya Ryohei , Iwano Satoshi , Kitada Nobuo , Yamasaki Norihisa , Kamiya Genta , Ogo Katsunori , Sugiyama Takashi , Chuluun-Erdene Ariunbold , Isagawa Takayuki , Obata Rika , Ijuin Ryosuke , Abe Hideki , Kashiwakura Yuji , Mabuchi Yo , Takahashi Megumu , Yamamoto Yoshihiro , Sawaki Daigo , Sato Tatsuyuki , Sato Shigeru , Nishikii Hidekazu , Yoshimura Kotaro , Hioki Hiroyuki , Ohmori Tsukasa , Nakashiba Toshiaki , Hirano Takashi , Aoyama Hiroshi , Takeda Norihiko , Miyawaki Atsushi , Maki Shojiro A. , Kuchimaru Takahiro
Published: January 2025

Synthetic bioluminescence reactions exhibiting near-infrared (NIR)-shifted spectra have been explored to improve deep-tissue imaging through the design of firefly luciferin analogues. Although the NIR bioluminescence reactions improve the tissue penetration of bioluminescence signals from deep tissues, their photon output is markedly lower compared to the natural reaction with D-luciferin and firefly luciferase (Fluc), often by an order of magnitude or more. Consequently, in most instances, the sensitivity of NIR bioluminescence imaging (NIR-BLI) has not yet substantially surpassed that of BLI with the natural firefly reaction. Here, we present a synthetic firefly luciferin, named AkaSuke, that generates intense NIR bioluminescence (λmax= 680 nm) in reaction with Fluc, greatly improving the detection sensitivity beyond that of the D-luciferin/Fluc reaction for targeting deep tissue. AkaSuke enables sensitive visualizations of ectopic hematogenesis through entire tissues of mice over time following transplantation of bone marrow stem cells labeled with Fluc. We additionally identify a Japanese firefly luciferase, DkumLuc1, that displays higher catalytic activities for bioluminescence emission of AkaSuke compared to typical Fluc, resulting in detection sensitivity comparable to that of AkaLumine/Akaluc reaction, one of the most sensitive bioluminescence systems for deep tissue imaging. We further propose the potential of the AkaSuke/DkumLuc1 reaction as an orthogonal pair with the AkaLumine/Akaluc for sensitive dual-target tracking in mice. Overall results suggest that AkaSuke enhances the capabilities of deep-tissue bioluminescence imaging using Fluc and its variant, and could serve as an emerging benchmark for the molecular design of NIR luciferin analogues.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the uptake of intermittent sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine for prevention of malaria amongst pregnant women in Sierra Leone
Authors: Pessima William Tilima , Molleh Bailah , Silla-Kanu Musa , Stafford Brenda , Lahai Wani Kumba , Falama Abdul Mac , Mishra Sharmistha , Chan Adrienne K. , Sevalie Stephen , Lakoh Sulaiman , Lahai Michael
Published: January 2025

Background

Malaria in pregnancy contributes to high maternal mortality, warranting the adoption of intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) of malaria in pregnancy in Sierra Leone in 2017. Since then, the uptake of IPTp has increased but it is unclear whether COVID-19 has any impact on these services. We aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the uptake of IPTp among pregnant women in Sierra leone at district, regional, and national levels.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study design was used to assess the monthly aggregated data from DHIS2 for all 5 regions of Sierra Leone. We describe the trends of IPTp1, IPTp2, and IPTp3+ uptake at national, regional, and district levels before, during and after COVID-19. Data was analyses using STATA. The median and interquartile range for each outcome in each period were calculated.

Results

The median monthly uptake of total IPTp was the lowest before COVID (53,244) but increased during COVID-19 (55,257) and after COVID-19 (59,439). IPTp1 uptake was lowest during COVID-19 (20,338) but highest after COVID-19 (20,914). All three variables (IPTp1, IPTp2 and IPTp3) showed a clear decline in uptake in early 2020 and recovered within 3 months in a similar pattern of magnitude, except in Eastern Sierra Leone. Both IPTp2 and IPTp3 showed more pronounced increases in uptake after recovery than IPTp1 and they both experienced sustained increases in the post-COVID-19 period.

Conclusion

The negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in reducing IPTp uptake was followed by rapid recovery, underscoring the resilience of the Sierra Leone’s health system in response to public health emergencies. However, the delay in recovery in the IPTp uptake in the Eastern Sierra Leone highlight the need for strong differentiated regional strategies in protecting essential health services during public health emergencies.
Optimal Reconstruction of the Hellings and Downs Correlation
Authors: Allen Bruce , Romano Joseph D.
Published: January 2025

Pulsar timing arrays (PTAs) detect gravitational waves (GWs) via the correlations they create in the arrival times of pulses from different pulsars. The mean correlation, a function of the angle between the directions to two pulsars, was predicted in 1983 by Hellings and Downs (HD). Observation of this angular pattern is crucial evidence that GWs are present, so PTAs “reconstruct the HD curve” by estimating the correlation using pulsar pairs separated by similar angles. Several studies have examined the amount by which this curve is expected to differ from the HD mean. The variance arises because (a) a finite set of pulsars at specific sky locations is used, (b) the GW sources interfere, and (c) the data are contaminated by noise. Here, for a Gaussian ensemble of sources, we predict that variance by constructing an optimal estimator of the HD correlation, taking into account the pulsar sky locations and the frequency distribution of the GWs and the pulsar noise. The variance is a ratio: the numerator depends upon the pulsar sky locations, and the denominator is the (effective) number of frequency bins for which the GW signal dominates the noise. In effect, after suitable combination, each such frequency bin gives an independent estimate of the HD correlation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Optimal Quantum Circuit Cuts with Application to Clustered Hamiltonian Simulation
Authors: Harrow Aram W. , Lowe Angus
Published: January 2025

We study methods to replace entangling operations with random local operations in a quantum computation, at the cost of increasing the number of required executions. First, we consider “spacelike cuts” where an entangling unitary is replaced with random local unitaries. We propose an entanglement measure for quantum dynamics, the , which bounds the cost in a procedure for this replacement based on two copies of the Hadamard test. In the terminology of prior work, this procedure yields a quasiprobability decomposition with minimal 1-norm in a number of cases, which addresses an open question of Piveteau and Sutter. As an application, we give an improved algorithm for clustered Hamiltonian simulation. Specifically we show that interactions can be removed at a cost, which is exponential in the sum of their strengths times the evolution time, and vanishing in the limit of weak interactions. We also give an improved upper bound on the cost of replacing wires with measure-and-prepare channels using “timelike cuts.” We prove a matching information-theoretic lower bound when estimating output probabilities.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Modeling the impact of input credit access on farm performance and food nutrition: insights from smallholder rice farmers in Ghana
Authors: Prah Stephen , Asante Bright Owusu , Dagbatsa Godfred Holaena , Wongnaa Camillus Abawiera , Etuah Seth , Ng’ombe John N.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper examines the nexus between input credit access, farm performance and food nutrition in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a random sample of 239 smallholder rice farmers, we utilized the endogenous switching regression model to address the self-selection issue and estimate the impact of input credit access on farm performance and food nutrition and further analyze the heterogenous impacts.

Findings

The results show that socioeconomic (age, education, sex, off-farm activity and farm size), institutional (extension contact and farmer-based organizations) characteristics and location variable significantly influence the decision to access input credit. After adjusting for both observed and unobserved factors, our findings reveal that access to input credit significantly improves rice yield, net profit and food nutrition of smallholder rice farmers in Ghana. Furthermore, results reveal that the effects of input credit access on rice yield, net profit and food nutrition are heterogeneous and subject to farmers’ propensity to access input credit. Specifically, we find that those with a higher inclination to access input credit experience larger positive impacts, indicating a positive selection process.

Research limitations/implications

Access to agricultural input credit is essential for the adoption of modern and climate-smart technologies in agricultural production. However, the persistent lack of access to input credit hampers agricultural productivity and constrains investment in farm input resources in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our study calls for proper targeting of input credit interventions to incentivize the uptake of farm input credit such as improved seeds and fertilizers to improve overall crop production and achieve food security.

Originality/value

The study utilized rigorous econometric methods to analyze the impact of input credit access on smallholder rice farmers' farm performance and food nutrition in Ghana. The findings provide valuable guidance for policymakers and future research on agricultural development in Ghana.
Evidence of COVID-19 lockdown stringency on SME survival in Brazil
Authors: Feitosa Paulo , Mascarini Suelene
Published: January 2025

Purpose

We aimed to study how movement restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic affected the survival of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

We use a unique dataset of 6,470 Brazilian SMEs and apply a generalized ordered probit model to assess the effects of pandemic-induced mobility restrictions on SME survival in Brazil.

Findings

Our findings highlight the drivers of SME resilience in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic. Weaker mobility restrictions, longer business histories, and greater average invoicing and leadership characteristics affect SME survival, which aligns with the literature. The positive association between relaxed restrictions and survival emphasizes the importance of balanced policies, recognizing the crucial role of SMEs in local communities and national economic recovery.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study have broader implications beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, as they offer insights into how SMEs in developing countries such as Brazil can be affected by mobility restrictions. This knowledge can guide policymakers and businesses in tailoring support measures for various contexts of shocks and resilience-building strategies.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by focusing on a significant dataset of Brazilian SMEs and analysing the impact of varying levels of mobility constraints on their survival during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its originality lies in two aspects. First, it offers an innovative approach and new evidence on how mobility restrictions affected SME survival amidst the pandemic. Second, it sheds light on Brazil, a developing country where businesses, especially SMEs, were significantly affected by the pandemic, providing insights that can inform policies and strategies for SME resilience in similar contexts.
Antecedents and consequences for sustainability in Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Chong Sze Chin , Kaliappen Narentheren
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the key antecedents and challenges faced by Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the suggestion for the government to support SMEs in implementing sustainable practices.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were chosen and conducted with seven SME owner-managers from Kuala Lumpur or Selangor, chosen through a purposive sampling technique. The data was analyzed thematically using NVivo 12 software. The study also extended the resource-based view theory by incorporating sustainable practices as an advantage for SMEs in the competitive business environment.

Findings

This study discovers the antecedents of sustainable practices are awareness, pressures, competitiveness and company image. According to the data, all SME owner-managers indicate that awareness is the main reason for implementing sustainable practices. The consequences of implementing sustainable practices in SMEs are financial issues, limited knowledge and skills and a lack of resources when implementing sustainable practices. The current study also suggests the government provides financial and non-financial support to encourage sustainability among the SMEs.

Practical implications

This paper may also provide the policymakers, SME Corporations, investors and SME owner-managers with an understanding of the current sustainable practices among SMEs. It also helps formulate policies, plans and actions to support SMEs in implementing sustainable practices.

Originality/value

The findings of this study contribute to the existing literature by highlighting the role of sustainable practices in enhancing firm performance while advancing the RBV theory in the context of Malaysian SMEs. This research fills a research gap by examining sustainability’s specific antecedents and consequences within this sector.
Can fast fashion brands win over Gen Z with corporate social responsibility communication on Instagram by appealing to their emotions?
Authors: Mei Xiang Ying , Ventzel Caroline , Zachariassen Ida
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to understand how Gen Z consumers perceive fashion brands’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication through emotional appeals on Instagram and how such perception affects their overall behaviour towards the brand.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a qualitative research approach through photo-elicitation and 14 semi-structured in-depth interviews with members of Gen Z, using one of the world’s largest fast fashion brands, H&M, as the study context.

Findings

It is increasingly difficult to capture the attention of Gen Z as they have become immune to the typical CSR messages despite attempting to appeal to their emotions. This makes CSR communication alone challenging in influencing brand perception. However, behaviour towards the brand, such as purchase intention, is not necessarily dependent on whether consumers are convinced of the brand’s CSR activities, as greater value is placed on fast fashion’s price and availability. For Gen Z, such elements surpass their concern for sustainable fashion. Since more emphasis is placed on neutral endorsers due to their trustworthiness, CSR efforts may be disseminated through such third parties to achieve desired outcomes.

Practical implications

Understanding consumers’ perceptions of the current CSR effort allows brand managers to reevaluate their CSR communication strategies to appeal to Gen Z and encourage positive brand behaviour.

Originality/value

Contrary to previous studies, which have focused on organisational outcomes, the study has in-depth explored consumers’ perception of CSR efforts on Instagram and the implications of such perceptions for long-term brand building.
Passive acoustic monitoring for assessing forest bird distribution and identifying conservationally important areas in a subtropical forest landscape
Authors: Inoue Tohki , Okura Yosuke , Yoshida Takehito , Washitani Izumi
Published: January 2025

Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) has recently been developed and used for long‐term and/or large spatial scale surveys. PAM is expected to be one of the most efficient methods for assessing species distribution and examining the factors affect it, helping identify important areas for biodiversity conservation and inform the management plan. In this study, we tested the feasibility of the PAM for monitoring bird species and revealed some critical points to consider in improving or developing more widely applicable PAM. We conducted PAM in the subtropical forest landscape of Amami‐Oshima Island, Japan, which harbors rich biodiversity (over 100 species), including endangered and/or endemic plants and animals. Nine endemic forest bird species were detected across recording locations. The effects of environmental factors on the four bird species were analyzed, excluding the five species that were commonly detected and did not require occupancy modeling. Different environmental factors influenced the occupancy probability of the four species examined according to their habitat preferences, which is consistent with previous studies. Our results suggest that the combination of PAM and occupancy model enables us to identify the bird's spatial occupancy pattern, associated environmental factors, and the important areas that should be protected for conservation. PAM is a relatively low‐cost and non‐invasive method that can be applied in various monitoring of biodiversity conservation areas.
Does Pelvic Congestion Cause Bladder Symptoms—Potential New Indication to Treat Pelvic Congestion
Authors: Wong Wai Yan Timothy , Cheung Man Yeuk , Brown Bevan , Liang Eisen
Published: January 2025

Background

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) is a condition characterised by chronic pelvic pain resulting from the dilation and reflux of veins within the pelvis. While pelvic pain is the primary symptom of PCS, other associated symptoms may vary among individuals. Bladder symptoms have been commonly observed in PCS, including increased urination frequency, urinary urgency, nocturia and rarely haematuria. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of bladder symptoms in women with pelvic congestion syndrome and the effectiveness of Ovarian Vein Embolisation in alleviating these symptoms.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study on women diagnosed with PCS between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2022. Inclusion criteria were defined as the presence of clinical symptoms and radiological evidence of PCS undergoing Ovarian Vein Embolisation (OVE). Participants were followed up at least 6 months post‐procedure using a web‐based survey to assess their bladder symptoms.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐three women underwent OVE for PCS during the study period and consented to participate in the study, and 65% (n = 80) reported experiencing bladder symptoms. The most common bladder symptoms during pre‐procedure consultations included daytime frequency, a sense of incomplete emptying, and nocturia. Among the individuals with bladder symptoms, 60/80 (75%) reported symptom improvement following OVE. Furthermore, 11/80 patients (13.8%) noted a complete resolution of their symptoms post‐OVE, and 30/80 patients (37.5%) reported significant improvement. There were no reported major complications or mortality following OVE.

Conclusion

The findings of this study provided compelling evidence that bladder symptoms are common in women with PCS. Ovarian Vein Embolization emerges as a safe and effective intervention for alleviating concurrent bladder symptoms in these patients.
Is There Gender Disparity in RANZCR Radiation Oncology Grants and Prizes Success?
Authors: Roos Daniel , Milner Lisa
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Recent RANZCR studies have demonstrated gender disparity in research publication output of both radiation oncology (RO) trainees and specialists, favouring men. The purpose of this project was to examine success rates by gender of grant and prize (G&P) submissions to the RO Research Committee (RORC) to determine if anything needs to be done about the appraisal process to potentially address that disparity.

Methods

College records between 2011 and 2024 (where applicable) were searched by gender for one RO trainee, and two other research manuscript prizes, and two research grant rounds. During that period, the averaged gender ratio for the RO Faculty specialist membership was M:F = 61%:39%. Fisher's exact test p < 0.05 was considered significant with respect to gender disparity.

Results

Relative to the gender ratio of applicants, there were no statistically significant gender differences between winners for any of the five G&Ps individually (p ≥ 0.15 for each), or in composite (p = 0.25). Although application rates overall (M:F = 62%:38%) were consistent with the membership gender ratio, women were markedly less likely to apply for prizes (25% of applicants) than grants (44%).

Conclusion

No gender disparity was found for winners of the five RO G&Ps individually or overall relative to applicant gender ratios. Accordingly, it does not appear that the RORC needs to change its assessment processes in relation to gender. However, women were under‐represented in prize applications, reflecting previously reported gender differences in award‐seeking behaviour.
Prevalence of cannabis consumption methods among people with medically recommended and nonmedical cannabis use in the United States
Authors: Han Beth , Jones Christopher M. , Volkow Nora D. , Einstein Emily B. , Weiss Susan R. B. , Blanco Carlos , Compton Wilson M.
Published: January 2025

Aims

Some cannabis consumption methods (e.g. smoking, vaping, dabbing) are associated with more harms than others (e.g. sublingual, transdermal). We aimed to examine differences in prevalence of cannabis consumption methods by people with medically recommended‐only vs. nonmedical‐only cannabis use.

Design and setting

Cross‐sectional, US nationally representative data from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH).

Participants

14 271 NSDUH participants aged ≥12 with past‐year cannabis use.

Measurements

NSDUH asked respondents with past‐year cannabis use about their consumption methods [i.e. smoking, vaping, eating or drinking, dabbing (consuming a concentrated form with a dab rig/pen), oral/sublingual, transdermal or taking pills] and if healthcare professionals recommended any cannabis use. If ‘no’, respondents were classified as having ‘nonmedical‐only cannabis use’. If ‘yes’, they were asked if all cannabis use was recommended and, if so, they were classified as having ‘medically recommended‐only cannabis use’; otherwise, they were classified as having ‘medical and nonmedical cannabis use’.

Findings

Among people reporting cannabis use, 10.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 9.7%–11.7%] reported medically recommended‐only use, and 83.0% (95% CI = 81.7%–84.3%) reported nonmedical‐only use. Smoking was the predominant method for nonmedical‐only use (79.2%, 95% CI = 77.7%–80.7%) and for medically recommended‐only use (73.7%, 95% CI = 68.8%–78.2%). Vaping prevalence (45.6%, 95% CI = 40.9%–50.4%) and eating/drinking prevalence (45.7%, 95% CI = 40.7%–50.7%) were similar among people with medically recommended‐only use. Vaping prevalence was 1.3 times higher [adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.2–1.4] for medically recommended‐only than for nonmedical‐only use (38.3%, 95% CI = 32.7%–44.3%). Dabbing prevalence was 1.5 times higher (APR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.3–1.7) for medically recommended‐only than for nonmedical‐only use [24.4% (95% CI = 20.5%–28.8%) vs 16.4% (95% CI = 15.3%–17.7%)]. Higher prevalence of oral/sublingual and transdermal methods was associated with medically recommended‐only use.

Conclusions

Among people with past‐year medically recommended‐only cannabis use in the US, three‐fourths reported smoking cannabis and almost half reported vaping and eating/drinking cannabis. Cannabis vaping prevalence and dabbing prevalence were 1.3–1.5 times higher, respectively, among people with medically recommended‐only use than people with nonmedical‐only use.
Pathophysiological Effects on Coronary Arteries Following Radiofrequency Ablation: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Abidi Syed Ali Raza , Quadri Afreen , Gondal Muhammad Umer Riaz , Hayat Fatima , Naeem Shafia , Talat Fawad , Mehmoodi Amin , Malik Jahanzeb
Published: January 2025

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a safe and effective treatment for patients experiencing ventricular and atrial tachyarrhythmias. While complications after RFA are generally rare, the occurrence of coronary artery (CA) injury, albeit infrequent, can have significant clinical implications. Given the proximity of CAs to common ablation sites, understanding the interplay between RFA and CA perfusion pathophysiology is paramount. Although previous studies have discussed the presentation and outcomes of CA injury post‐ablation, a comprehensive review consolidating the mechanisms of CA injury following RFA remains absent in the cardiology literature. In this review, we conducted an extensive literature search spanning the past three decades to explore the link between the biophysics of RFA and CA perfusion pathophysiology, focusing on injury mechanisms. We delve into RFA lesion pathology, elucidate the mechanisms of CA injury resulting from RFA, and examine factors influencing lesion formation, such as convective cooling and the “shadow effect.” Furthermore, we outline methods to mitigate CA injury post‐RFA and propose novel research avenues to optimize lesion formation and ensure the safety of arrhythmia treatments, particularly in cases where tissue ablation is performed close to CAs.
Consistency of interest mediates the positive relationship between growth mindset and presence of meaning in life among Hong Kong adolescents: A cross‐lagged panel study
Authors: Chan Hiu‐Sze , Tong Yuk‐Yue , Lee Sau‐Lai , Chiu Chi‐Yue
Published: January 2025

Meaning in life protects individuals from mental distress during social upheaval. We posit that a growth mindset and consistency of interest positively predict meaning in life during social upheaval. The present research tested the hypothesis that among adolescence living in a period of social upheaval, the presence of a growth mindset (the belief in malleability of valued personal attributes) positively predicts persistent engagement in purpose‐congruent interests (consistency of interest), which in turn positively predicts the feeling that life is meaningful (presence of meaning in life). To test this hypothesis and to clarify the temporal causal connections among growth mindset, consistency of interest, and presence of meaning in life, we conducted a 3‐wave longitudinal cross‐lagged panel study with 275 Hong Kong adolescents between late 2017 and early 2020, which covered a period of social upheaval. As hypothesized, having a growth mindset predicted meaning in life two years later through the mediating effect of consistency of interest. These findings extended past findings by identifying a new causal pathway for the temporal causal effects of a growth mindset on the presence of meaning in life over two years in a population and context with high vulnerability to mental distress. (193 words).
The Roots of Populism in Poland Do Uneven Economic Development, Social Transfers, Inequality and Migration Explain the Success of Populist Parties?
Authors: Olejnik Łukasz W. , Wroński Marcin
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we investigate the socio‐economic factors affecting the electoral outcomes of the populist parties in Poland. According to estimation results, the re‐election of Law and Justice in 2019 can be explained by changes in economic conditions. Slow dynamics of municipality revenues from the personal income tax, depopulation, and social transfers are crucial drivers of its success. Contrary to Western Europe, the effects of immigration and inequality on the outcomes of populist parties in Poland are not statistically significant. Populist parties were successful in gaining support in areas, which traditionally did not vote for them.
I "Gut" Rhythm: the microbiota as a modulator of the stress response and circadian rhythms
Authors: Tofani Gabriel S. S. , Clarke Gerard , Cryan John F.
Published: January 2025

Modern habits are becoming more and more disruptive to health. As our days are often filled with circadian disruption and stress exposures, we need to understand how our responses to these external stimuli are shaped and how their mediators can be targeted to promote health. A growing body of research demonstrates the role of the gut microbiota in influencing brain function and behavior. The stress response and circadian rhythms, which are essential to maintaining appropriate responses to the environment, are known to be impacted by the gut microbiota. Gut microbes have been shown to alter the host's response to stress and modulate circadian rhythmicity. Although studies demonstrated strong links between the gut microbiota, circadian rhythms and the stress response, such studies were conducted in an independent manner not conducive to understanding the interface between these factors. Due to the interconnected nature of the stress response and circadian rhythms, in this review we explore how the gut microbiota may play a role in regulating the integration of stress and circadian signals in mammals and the consequences for brain health and disease.
Sodium Thiosulfate Treatment for Calciphylaxis: Is There an Optimal Duration of Therapy?
Authors: Vaz Julia , Rosa Eduardo , Magalhães Luciene , Matsuda Rogério , Moysés Rosa Maria Affonso , Jorgetti Vanda
Published: January 2025

Calciphylaxis is a rare and serious disorder characterized by vascular calcification and occlusion of the microvessels in the dermis, subcutaneous adipose tissue, visceral organs, and musculature. Studies have suggested that the major risk factors for developing calciphylaxis are chronic kidney disease and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Its diagnosis is clinical, and the treatment includes a multidisciplinary approach, although there are no clinical protocols based on randomized clinical trials. Therefore, the management and treatment are informed by specialist opinion. Sodium thiosulfate is frequently utilized for its vasodilatory and antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to chelate calcium. However, there are no guidelines regarding the duration of its use. The present report describes a chronic kidney disease patient on hemodialysis with calciphylaxis, who underwent sodium thiosulfate treatment for 2 years associated with debridement and reconstructive plastic surgery with a good response and control of the disease.
Criminal justice reform, conviction without trial and the role of the criminal judge in Argentina
Authors: Sozzo Máximo
Published: January 2025

This article addresses the role of criminal judges in mechanisms of conviction without trial that have spread in recent decades in Latin America, in the context of criminal justice reforms towards an adversarial model. These mechanisms in the region are the result of a complex translation of plea bargaining from USA legal tradition which included adaptations and innovations. One of those is a strongly active and interventionist role for the criminal judge in ‘law in books’. However, through empirical research in the Province of Santa Fe (Argentina), this article shows how a judicial practice of routine and fast ‘homologation’ of agreements is effectively structured in ‘law in action’. This role implies a sort of deresponsibilisation in relation to the exercise of the power to punish, in stark contrast with the inquisitorial model, precisely in a warm climate of strong public distrust and criticism of state crime control institutions.
The Role of Innate Immunity in Healthy Aging Through Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Cho Yejin , Hahm Jeong‐Hoon
Published: January 2025

In a super‐aging society, the increase in the elderly population is closely tied to a rise in infectious diseases due to factors such as weakened immune systems and decreased vaccine efficacy in older adults. Various opportunistic pathogens commonly encountered in everyday life can cause infections and diseases when an individual's immune defence is weakened due to aging. These factors underscore the importance of preventive measures against pathogenic infections and the aging of immune systems in the elderly. The immune response acts as the defence mechanism against foreign substances, including pathogens and abnormal cells. Specifically, the innate immune response is the body's first line of defence, offering a rapid and nonspecific response to pathogens. Advances in the study of innate immunity's regulatory functions in both immune and non‐immune cells have broadened our understanding of innate immune responses' impact on health. This includes a focus on immune effectors like antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and their potential implications for health and longevity. This review summarises the common principles and evolutionary adaptations of innate immunity via AMPs, in mammals and invertebrates. Especially, this review discusses the conserved mechanisms regulating AMP production and the role of AMPs in modulating aging and diseases from invertebrate to human. Therefore, it highlights the potential role of innate immunity in addressing aging through AMPs.
From anecdotes to evidence: Environmental DNA detection of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus L.) at the southern limit of its circumpolar range
Authors: Williams Molly Ann , Poultney Samuel J. , Hallam Jane , Hewitson Tianna E. , Littlefair Joanne E.
Published: January 2025

The urgency of rapid species monitoring is at an all‐time high due to the increasing threat of climate change to global ecosystems, in particular freshwater habitats. Fish such as Arctic charr, Salvelinus alpinus, are particularly vulnerable to increasing water temperatures and changes in land use due to their dependence on cold waters and confinement to lacustrine environments. Nonetheless, current monitoring practices, relying on physical capture of organisms, are hindered by resource constraints, desire to manage habitats for recreational fishing, and restricted access to sites. Here we applied a targeted environmental DNA (eDNA) assay in Northwest Scotland to circumvent these limitations and update existing knowledge of Arctic charr habitats, including in locations previously only supported by anecdotal knowledge. Arctic charr eDNA was detected in 10 out of the 16 sites sampled. Additionally, shore and outflow sampling successfully detected Arctic charr eDNA during spawning season, providing a viable sampling strategy where boat access may be limited. These data enabled Arctic charr distribution records to be updated and demonstrated the effectiveness of eDNA as a method for monitoring a vulnerable salmonid in a rapidly changing landscape.
Missing pieces: A critical review of research on forced marriage and a call for family scientists to study forced marriage
Authors: Ford Jessie V. , Shah Aarushi , Reiss Fraidy , Hirsch Jennifer S.
Published: January 2025

In recent decades, there has been increased attention paid to the phenomenon of forced marriage. However, much of this work positions forced marriage as a problem of “backwards” culture or religion. This scoping review synthesizes and critiques research on forced marriage, showing that extant research has focused on individual circumstances of vulnerability, forced entrance to marriage, and cisgendered heterosexual women. These narrow framings eclipse the structural drivers, forces that prevent exit, and experiences of heterosexual men, queer individuals, and those with disabilities. Overall, the reviewed literature demonstrates the opportunity of applying new methodological (e.g., social autopsy), conceptual (e.g., post‐carceral approaches), and descriptive (e.g., gender and sexual minority people) approaches to this social problem. We urge family scientists to pay more attention to forced marriage, as they are uniquely positioned to parse out distinctions in the range of experiences that constitute forced marriage and to consider strategies to support marital self‐determination.
Improving full‐arch implant scanning accuracy with a Meccano‐like device for scan bodies splinting: A dental technique
Authors: Fadl Basem Tarek , El‐ Attar Mohamed Sherine Ibrahim , Mesquita Alfredo Mikail Melo , Elhadary Amany , Soliman Ingy Saied
Published: January 2025

A long‐term successful implant‐supported prosthesis requires the creation of a passively fitting framework, based on an accurate intraoral digital implant scan. According to dental literature, splinted implant scan bodies (ISBs) provide higher intraoral scanning accuracy than non‐splinted techniques. This technique presents a structured approach for splinting multi‐unit abutment scan bodies (MUASBs) using customized manufactured devices to facilitate the recording of definitive intraoral implant scans.
Unstructured Parental Feedback at A Tertiary Maternity Hospital: A Cohort Study Using Routinely Collected Health Data
Authors: Abdel‐Latif Mohamed E. , Cheng Junyu , Todd David A. , Davis Deborah , Alzahrani Naif , Carlisle Hazel , Hussain Rafat
Published: January 2025

Background

Hospital care for neonates can be challenging for parents, and a negative parental experience can affect the well‐being of the infant after discharge. A family‐centred approach is the gold standard of care in neonatology.

Aim

This study aimed to identify common themes in voluntary unstructured feedback received from parents and caregivers of infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit, special care nursery or postnatal ward or followed up by neonatal outpatient services at a tertiary Australian Women and Children's Hospital. These findings are intended to inform the development of effective family‐centred neonatal care approaches.

Methods

This single‐centre observational study used routinely collected unstructured parental voluntary feedback received between 2010 and 2021. All feedback is entered prospectively in the online consumer feedback module of a reporting database (RiskMan). Deductive thematic analysis (whereby themes, codes and categories were chosen prior to the analysis) was used to analyse the extracted quotations.

Results

During the study period, 3533 unstructured feedback items were received. Most of the feedback received was compliments (2725/3533, 77.1%). The main feedback category was ‘staff competency and efficiency’, which accounted for 80.8% (2201/2755) of the compliments and 45.0% (364/808) of the complaints. Most complaints were from outpatient services and postnatal wards and centred around ‘infrastructure and systems’ (280/808, 34.7%) and ‘information, explanation and communication’ (152/808, 18.8%).

Conclusions

Parental satisfaction was positively affected by ‘staff competency and efficiency’. This study supports collecting and analysing unstructured feedback to reflect parental experiences and drive quality improvement.
Analysis of Animal Models of Traumatic Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head Based on Blood Supply: A Literature Review
Authors: Wang Linbao , Luo Yunzhuan , Qiu Xing , Cheng Liangliang , Ma Kaiming , Guan Jianchen , Liu Yuchen , Ying Jiawei , Zhao Dewei
Published: January 2025

Traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (TONFH) refers to ischemic osteonecrosis is resulting from an acute mechanical interruption of the blood supply to the femoral head. The early diagnosis and optimal treatment have been central focuses of research and continue to undergo improvement. Reliable animal models are essential for advancing research into the treatment of the disease. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of tetrapod models (rats, rabbits, dogs, and sheep) and bipod models (emus, ostriches), as well as various modeling methods (traumatic hip dislocation, dissection of the round ligament and ligature of the femoral neck, femoral neck fracture (FNF), reduction and internal fixation after femoral neck fracture, and highly selective disruption of the anterior‐superior retinacular vessels). This review examines the advantages, disadvantages, and applicability of each model. Based on blood flow analysis, it proposes a more reliable direction for TONFH modeling: simulating partial blood flow injury in the context of FNF.
Free to Build: Liberty and Urban Housing
Authors: Christmas Billy
Published: January 2025

Most large cities of the world's most affluent countries are increasingly unaffordable in ways that raise serious normative questions. The price of purchasing and renting housing is relatively high due to political constraints on supply. These constraints do not protect the normative interests of residents of these cities, and generate a system in which development that would be mutually beneficial is prohibited. I argue that rights over commonly used urban space have the same liberty‐based justification as traditional private property rights. And that assigning rights over the disposition of common space to those most local to it, to use, develop, or transfer as they collectively wish, would overcome the problem. It would do so by enabling an expansion of housing supply where it is most needed, but only through a procedure that ensures it will benefit local residents, by their own lights.
Comprehensive reanalysis of light fluence distribution in pleural photodynamic therapy using standardized anatomical coordinates
Authors: Sun Hongjing , Kim Michele M. , Ong Yi Hong , Dimofte Andreea , Singhal Sunil , Busch Theresa M. , Cengel Keith A. , Zhu Timothy C.
Published: January 2025

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has shown promise as an adjuvant treatment for malignant pleural mesothelioma when combined with surgical resection. Accurate light dosimetry is critical for treatment efficacy. This study presents an improved method for analyzing light fluence distribution in pleural PDT using a standardized anatomical coordinate system and advanced computational modeling. We utilized an infrared navigation system with an improved treatment delivery wand to track light delivery in real‐time. The human chest cavity geometry was reconstructed and the pleura was mapped to a standardized coordinate system, allowing for direct comparisons across patients. Light fluence was calculated using both primary and scattered components, with a novel dual correction method applied to match measured values at detector locations. The standardized approach allowed for statistical analysis of light fluence distribution across anatomical regions in a cohort of 11 patients. Results showed acceptable light fluence uniformity with a standard deviation of 6.6% from the prescribed dose across patients. This comprehensive analysis provides insights for optimizing treatment protocols and lays the groundwork for future studies on singlet oxygen generation and its correlation with treatment outcomes in pleural PDT.