bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kutane Ulzerationen bei Dermatomyositis
Authors: Wald Caroline , Simon Jan-Christoph , Treudler Regina
Published: January 2025

Eine 33-jährige Patientin mit Anti-NXP2(„nuclear matrix protein 2“)-positiver und eine 67-jährige Patientin mit TIF1-gamma(„transcription intermediary factor 1 gamma“)-positiver Dermatomyositis entwickelten unter Systemtherapie mit Azathioprin bzw. Low-dose-Methylprednisolon und zyklischer Verabreichung von intravenösen Immunglobulinen (IVIGs) schmerzhafte Ulzerationen im Gesichts- und Körperstammbereich bzw. an den Händen. In der laborchemischen Diagnostik blieb bei beiden Patientinnen der Anti-MDA5(„anti-melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5“)-Antikörperstatus negativ und die Kreatinkinase (CK) normwertig, die histopathologischen Untersuchungen erbrachten ein unspezifisches Ergebnis. Eine intensive topische Kortikosteroidtherapie der Klasse 4 und Fortführung der immunsuppressiven bzw. immunmodulierenden Therapie führten zur Abheilung der ulzerativen Hautveränderungen. Dieser Bericht soll für das seltene Auftreten kutaner Ulzerationen bei einer Anti-NXP2- bzw. Anti-TIF1-gamma-positiven Dermatomyositis sensibilisieren, da Ulzerationen mit einem schweren Krankheitsverlauf assoziiert sein können. In unseren beiden Patientenfällen handelt es sich um eine ausschließlich dermale Ausprägung ohne sonstige Komplikationen.
Präimplementierung von elektronischen Patientenberichten an Referenzzentren für Kopf-Hals-Onkologie
Authors: Dejaco Daniel , Gottfried Timo , Santer Matthias , Thurner Anna , Lehmann Jens , Riedl David , Rumpold Gerhard , Holzner Bernhard , Schmutzhard Joachim , Hofauer Benedikt
Published: January 2025

Hintergrund

Elektronisch erfasste Patientenberichte („electronic patient-reported outcomes“, ePRO) sind digitale, von Krebspatienten ausgefüllte Fragebögen. Trotz Hinweisen auf eine Verbesserung der klinischen Versorgung, ist die Integration von ePRO in der klinischen Kopf-Hals-Onkologie Neuland.

Ziel der Arbeit

Diese Arbeit skizziert den Implementierungsprozess für ePRO der Universitätsklinik für Hals‑, Nasen- und Ohrenheilkunde der Medizinischen Universität Innsbruck (HNO Innsbruck).

Methoden

Die Implementierung erfolgt durch eine Projektteam in einer Präimplementierungsphase (Bedarfsevaluation, Implementierungsplanung, Identifikation innerklinischer Barrieren, Prototypenentwicklung, Testung und Adaptierung sowie Anwenderschulung), Implementierungsphase (Implementierung und Anwendertraining) und Postimplementierungsphase (Qualitätskontrolle, Projektausweitung).

Ergebnisse

Das Projektteam an der HNO Innsbruck besteht aus 10 Mitgliedern, die Digitalisierungsbedarf in der Krebsnachsorge identifizierten. Eine Hybridimplementierunglösung („Computer-based Health Evaluation System“, CHES; Fa. Evaluation Software Development, ESD, Innsbruck, Österreich) wurde gewählt. ePRO („European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire – 30 items“, EORTC-QLQ-C30; Head and Neck Functional Integrity Scale, HNC-FIT Scale; und EORTC Head and Neck Cancer Module, EORTC H&N43) werden 12-mal über 5,5 Jahre erhoben. Insgesamt 25 Anwender bewerten den Prototypen als benutzerfreundlich (Patientensicht: 8,1 ± 1,6; 3–10; Anwendersicht: 8,6 ± 1,1; 6–10). Als Hauptvorteil wurde die schnellere Anamnese (72 %), als Hauptnachteil fehlendes Personal, Zeit und Motivation (52 %) genannt.

Schlussfolgerung

Das Feedback zum ePRO-Prototypen in der HNO Innsbruck war positiv. Die Implementierungsphase wurde im ersten Quartal 2024 gestartet. Die Zielerreichung wird in der Postimplementierungsphase im vierten Quartal 2024 evaluiert.
Tests for segregation distortion in tetraploid F1 populations
Authors: Gerard David , Thakkar Mira , Ferrão Luis Felipe V.
Published: January 2025

Key message:

In tetraploid F1 populations, traditional segregation distortion tests often inaccurately flag SNPs due to ignoring polyploid meiosis processes and genotype uncertainty. We develop tests that account for these factors.

Genotype data from tetraploid F1 populations are often collected in breeding programs for mapping and genomic selection purposes. A common quality control procedure in these groups is to compare empirical genotype frequencies against those predicted by Mendelian segregation, where SNPs detected to have segregation distortion are discarded. However, current tests for segregation distortion are insufficient in that they do not account for double reduction and preferential pairing, two meiotic processes in polyploids that naturally change gamete frequencies, leading these tests to detect segregation distortion too often. Current tests also do not account for genotype uncertainty, again leading these tests to detect segregation distortion too often. Here, we incorporate double reduction, preferential pairing, and genotype uncertainty in likelihood ratio and Bayesian tests for segregation distortion. Our methods are implemented in a user-friendly R package, . We demonstrate the superiority of our methods to those currently used in the literature on both simulations and real data.
Population pharmacokinetic model of tranexamic acid in patients who undergo cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Nakai Tsuyoshi , Tamura Takahiro , Miyagawa Yasuhiro , Inagaki Takayuki , Mutsuga Masato , Yamada Shigeki , Yamada Kiyofumi , Nishiwaki Kimitoshi , Mizoguchi Hiroyuki
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is widely used as an antifibrinolytic drug. However, studies to determine the optimal blood concentration of TXA have produced inconsistent results. During cardiac surgery, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) has serious effects on drug distribution, elimination, and plasma concentration. Therefore, we aimed to establish a population pharmacokinetics model of TXA in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB that considers renal function as a covariate, thereby facilitating personalized treatment.

Methods

In total, 453 TXA plasma samples were prospectively collected from 77 patients who underwent cardiac surgery with CPB. Plasma concentrations were determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The population pharmacokinetic model of TXA was analyzed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling.

Results

The two-compartment–based model with combined errors was determined as the best. The final model included the effect of bodyweight and CLcr may be summarized as V
1 (L) = 12.77 × (bodyweight / 61.4)0.911, V
2 (L) = 6.857, CL1 (L/h) = 3.263 × [CLcr (L/h) / 61.0]0.752, CL2 (L/h) = 2.859.

Conclusion

Patients who undergo cardiac surgery with CPB may require an adjusted dose of TXA tailored to CPB due to lower CL1 and increased V
1. Our TXA population pharmacokinetic model may be useful for developing individualized dosing designs for TXA in patients who undergo cardiac surgery with CPB.
Efficacy and safety of olverembatinib as maintenance therapy after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Kong Jun , Zheng Feng-Mei , Yan Chen-Hua , Wang Jing-Zhi , Fu Hai-Xia , Wang Zhi-Dong , Suo Pan , Hu Guan-Hua , Lv Meng , Chen Huan , Mo Xiao-Dong , Xu Lan-Ping , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Huang Xiao-Jun , Wang Yu
Published: January 2025

Experience using olverembatinib as maintenance therapy in patients with Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is limited. We retrospectively collected data from 26 patients with Ph+ ALL who received only olverembatinib as maintenance therapy after allo-HCT. Olverembatinib was administered as prophylaxis in 18 patients (69.2%), and preemptively in 8 patients (30.8%). The median time of olverembatinib initiation after transplantation was 2.5 months (range, 1-7.3). The median starting dose of olverembatinib was 35 mg qod (range, 15–40). The median duration of olverembatinib treatment was 12.5 months (range, 6–23). Olverembatinib maintenance treatment was discontinued in 8 patients (8/26,30%), seven stopped the drug for a long-lasting BCR-ABL1 negativity and 1 for recurrent fever associated with the drug. BCR-ABL1 turned positive in 3 patients in 2, 3 and 6 months after discontinuation. During olverembatinib treatment, three patients developed grade ≥ 3 hematologic side effects, which resolved with dose interruption or dose reduction. The median follow-up time after allo-HCT were 17.75 months (range 7–31). The hematologic relapse rate was 7.7% (2/26), with no event in the preemptive group. The 3-year probability of overall survival and relapse free survival after allo-HCT was 91.7% and 79.1%, respectively. Only one patient in prophylaxis group died of central central nervous system (CNS) relapse. Thus, our data suggest that olverembatinib is effective and safe as maintenance treatment in patients with Ph+ ALL who underwent allo-HSCT. The main adverse effect was hematologic toxicity, which was tolerated.
Informing nitrate concentration trends: estimating groundwater residence time in a karstic, multiaquifer system using anthropogenic tracers (Minnesota, USA)
Authors: Kuehner Kevin J. , Runkel Anthony C. , Barry John D.
Published: January 2025

Interpretation of groundwater nitrate trends in the agricultural, karstic landscape of southeastern Minnesota, USA, has been confounded by an inadequate understanding of residence time. Temporal monitoring of alachlor ethane sulfonic acid (ESA) concentrations, a transformation product of the discontinued but commonly used agricultural herbicide alachlor from the 1970s and 1980s, was used to approximate post-1953 groundwater residence times. Statewide alachlor usage patterns were compared with corresponding ESA concentration trends measured from springs and wells. Nonparametric regressions and other methods were used to quantify residence times, which were compared with the results derived from atmospheric tracers. Corroboration between the multiple, independent age tracer methods suggests groundwater mixtures from shallow (<60 m) springs have apparent residence times of one to two decades. In contrast, springs in deeper settings have residence times ranging from two to four decades. Similar methods applied to domestic wells revealed analogous results across comparable hydrogeologic conditions. Residence times for springs and wells, across all age dating methods were significantly different by geologic setting and correlated with depth. Trend analysis combined with residence time estimates implies legacy sources of contaminants, such as nitrate, have not fully migrated through aquifer systems and that concentrations in certain springs, streams, and wells with older water will continue to increase until an equilibrium has been reached with current and historical land use. These results also provide insight into the challenges of measuring water quality response to improved land-use practices using monitoring sites with mixed groundwater residence times.
Minimally invasive versus open surgery for colonic diverticular disease: a nationwide analysis of German hospital data
Authors: Kolbe E. W. , Buciunas M. , Krieg S. , Loosen S. H. , Roderburg C. , Krieg A. , Kostev K.
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aims to evaluate the current rates and outcomes of minimally invasive versus open surgery for colonic diverticular disease in Germany, using a nationwide dataset.

Methods

We analyzed data from 36 hospitals, encompassing approximately 1.25 million hospitalizations from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2023. Patients aged 18 years and older with colonic diverticular disease (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10): K57.2 and K57.3) who underwent surgical treatment were included. Surgeries were classified as open or minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic). Outcomes such as in-hospital mortality, complications, and length of stay were assessed using multivariable logistic and linear regression models.

Results

Out of 1670 patients who underwent surgery for colonic diverticular disease, 63.2% had perforation and abscess. The rate of minimally invasive surgery increased from 34.6% in 2019 to 52.9% in 2023 for complicated cases and from 67.8% to 86.2% for uncomplicated cases. Open surgery was associated with higher in-hospital mortality (odds ratio (OR): 7.41; 95% CI: 2.86–19.21) and complications compared with minimally invasive surgery. The length of hospital stay was significantly longer for open surgery patients, with an increase of 4.6 days for those with perforation and abscess and 5.0 days for those without.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive surgery for colonic diverticular disease is increasingly preferred in Germany, especially for uncomplicated cases. However, open surgery remains common for complicated cases, but is associated with higher mortality, more complications, and longer hospital stays.
Green finance development and its origin, motives, and barriers: an exploratory study
Authors: Hu Die , Gan Christopher
Published: January 2025

As global awareness of sustainability significance intensifies, green finance has become a focal point. In response to this trend, our study extensively examines the evolution of green finance, using exploratory methodologies to produce insightful observations. We perform an all-inclusive bibliometric analysis of literature regarding green finance to reveal significant trends and critical contributors to the domain. Further, we explore the historical evolution of green finance, analyzing its fundamental principles, examining the driving factors and obstacles, and forecasting future directions. We attempt to offer a clearer insight into green finance, facilitating decision-making by scholars, industry professionals, and policymakers.
Partnership Preferences in Modern Migration Societies: Religious Homophily Among Young Muslims and Christians in Germany
Authors: Heyne Stefanie , Kuhlemann Jana , Kogan Irena
Published: January 2025

Preferences for homogamous partnerships, not only in terms of having a partner with the same ethnicity, but one with the same religion, are an important factor in explaining low levels of interethnic partnerships in Western countries. However, previous research has rarely explicitly focused on the role of preferences for partnership formation patterns. Using data from a factorial survey experiment, which was implemented in the 9th wave of the “Children of Immigrants Longitudinal Survey in Four European Countries” among young adults in Germany (CILS4EU-DE), this study explores patterns of religious homophily in partnership preferences among young adults in Germany. It thereby specifically focuses on individuals belonging to two major religious groups: Christians and Muslims. It investigates the effects of religious denomination, religiosity, type of intimate partnership, and gender differences for religious homophily in partnership preferences. Both male and female respondents were found to prefer partners of the same religious denomination, with this effect being stronger among Muslims than Christians. Muslim respondents showed no or little disapproval of more strongly religious partners, whereas Christian respondents showed strong disapproval of more religious partners. Among Christian and male Muslim but not among female Muslim respondents, preferences for religious homophily were lower for casual partnerships than for marriage. Overall, the findings suggest that religious homophily and religion play an important part in shaping partnership choices among young Christian and Muslim adults in Germany.
From Transient Traces to Material Witnesses: an Archaeological Investigation of Contemporary Border Crossings in the Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Jungfleisch Johannes
Published: January 2025

Contemporary migration from the Global South to the Global North is marked by vulnerability, violence, and injustice. These processes give rise to distinct materialities in border regions and transit countries. Although inherently mute, such traces can act as “material witnesses,” testifying to the inequities encountered along these journeys. Contemporary archaeology can apply its research methods to document and analyze these material remains, revealing past instances of injustice and violence. Drawing on fieldwork conducted in Turkey and Greece, this paper conceptualizes specific material traces of ongoing migration movements to Europe as material witnesses, shedding light on overlooked stages of migration pathways.
Optimization of a viscous-elastic damper coupling two simple oscillators based on nonlinear stochastic response
Authors: Potenza Francesco , Gattulli Vincenzo , Vasta Marcello
Published: January 2025

Among the techniques used to control or mitigate the structural vibrations induced by dynamic input, such as wind and earthquake, the dissipative coupling is one of the most applied, especially for its ease of implementation. Indeed, for example in large urban areas, it is common to find adjacent structures where the space between the buildings becomes smaller. To optimally select the visco-elastic features of the dissipative device to be used, the paper retraces the path followed by the previous scientific works proposing new design criteria. Such criteria are based on the nonlinear stochastic response of two simple oscillators linked by a damper whose hysteretic behavior is represented by a Bouc-Wen model. A state-space formulation of the equations of motion has been adopted to facilitate the analysis of the dynamic response. At the same time, the loading is hypothesized as a zero-mean Gaussian excitation. Consequently, the nonlinear response has been approximately evaluated by the equivalent linearized standard deviations for both displacements and accelerations. Subsequently, formulations of objective functions, based on the Minimax and Total Energy of the equivalent linearized stochastic response, have been applied to determine the optimal configurations of the coupled system. The influence of both noise power amplitude and soil typology on the designed systems has been also investigated. Suggestions related to the path to achieve pre-fixed targets (as balancing of displacements and accelerations) are provided.
An Exploratory Study about Factors and Outcomes Associated with the Experience of Coercive Measures in Mental Health Settings
Authors: Herrera-Imbroda Jesús , Carbonel-Aranda Vera , García-Illanes Yaiza , Aguilera-Serrano Carlos , Bordallo-Aragón Antonio , García-Spínola Edgar , Torres-Campos Daniel , Villagrán José María , García-Sanchez Juan Antonio , Mayoral-Cleries Fermín , Guzmán-Parra José
Published: January 2025

Coercive measures are commonly used in mental health settings despite their negative effects. The subjective experience of coercion varies widely, and its short- and long-term health impacts are not well understood. This study aimed to analyze the association between different types of coercive measures experienced during psychiatric hospitalization, the subjective experience of coercion, and both short- and long-term health outcomes. The study included 111 patients from two mental health units who experienced coercive measures (mechanical restraint, involuntary medication, or both). Perceived coercion was assessed during hospitalization. Short-term outcomes (post-traumatic stress and treatment satisfaction) were evaluated before discharge, while long-term outcomes (functionality improvement, risk of readmission, and suicidal behavior) were assessed at five-year follow-up. Perceived coercion was associated with higher post-traumatic stress (p < 0.001) and lower satisfaction with treatment (p < 0.001) in the short term. In the long term, perceived coercion showed no association with functionality, readmission risk, or suicidal behavior. However, combined coercive measures were linked to lower functionality improvement (p = 0.028) and higher readmission risk (p = 0.028) compared to involuntary medication alone. The findings suggest that efforts to reduce negative subjective experiences associated with coercive measures may improve patient satisfaction and reduce trauma risk during hospitalization. Combined coercive measures may be a risk factor for poorer long-term outcomes and should be carefully considered.
Clinical and radiological features of gastric and small intestinal anisakiasis: comparison with gastric ulcers and crohn’s disease
Authors: Ikejima Kengo , Yamada Daisuke , Muraishi Natsuka , Kurihara Yasuyuki
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To compare the clinical and radiological features of gastric and small intestinal anisakiasis with those of gastric ulcers and Crohn’s disease.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 205 cases of anisakiasis (148 gastric; 53 small intestinal) were identified between July 2003 and February 2022. The control groups included 130 and 31 patients with gastric ulcers and Crohn’s disease, respectively. Clinical and imaging findings were compared between the groups using the chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, Mann–Whitney U test, and t-test.

Results

Patients with gastric anisakiasis were younger (median age, 40 [21–85] years; 87 men) than those with gastric ulcers (median age, 64.5 [29–90] years; 101 men). Abdominal pain was common in the gastric anisakiasis group, whereas bleeding symptoms were frequent in the gastric ulcer group. Patients with small intestinal anisakiasis were older (mean age, 51.2 [38.6–63.7] years; 44 men) than those with Crohn’s disease (mean age, 35.9 [21.6–50.3] years; 22 men). Patients with gastric anisakiasis exhibited more edematous wall thickening, increased surrounding fat density, ascites, and thickening of other intestinal walls than those with gastric ulcers. Patients with small intestinal anisakiasis showed greater wall edema, perienteric fat stranding, proximal dilatation, clamp sign, and ascites than those with Crohn’s disease. Interobserver agreement was moderate to excellent, except for esophageal findings.

Conclusion

Anisakiasis demonstrates clinical and radiological features distinct from those of gastric ulcers and Crohn’s disease. Recognizing these differences may aid in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders, particularly in regions with high levels of raw fish consumption.

Condensed abstract

This retrospective study compared CT findings of gastric and small intestinal anisakiasis with gastric ulcers and Crohn’s disease. Anisakiasis exhibited distinct features, including edematous wall thickening, increased surrounding fat density, and ascites. These findings can aid in differential diagnosis, particularly in regions where raw fish consumption is common.
Cold Spray of Ni-Based Superalloys: A Review on Processing and Residual Stress
Authors: Sudigdo Parcelino , Bhattiprolu Venkata Satish , Hussain Tanvir
Published: January 2025

Cold spray has been extensively applied to deposit a range of materials in many industries. In the recent times, such a method has also shown its potential to deposit nickel-based superalloys, which currently are in demand due to their high tensile strength and corrosion resistance (especially at elevated temperatures); however, cold sprayed nickel super alloy coatings have poor mechanical properties due to the materials’ limited ability to undergo plastic deformation. Regarding this, numerous cold spray process modifications have been experimented, including preheating substrate and feedstock powder, applying laser irradiation, heat treating coatings post deposition, and heat treating feedstock powder, to promote plastic deformation, eliminate porosity and enhance inter particle bonding. Specifically, the important influence of external heat input on the underlying substrate and/or the incoming particles during cold spray deposition was highlighted in multiple studies. These studies indicated that the addition of external heat during cold spray increased the adhesion strength of the coatings due to an increase in the thermal softening effect of the deposited particles. In general, an attempt is made here to systematically review the influence of cold spray process modifications on the microstructure, mechanical properties and residual stresses of nickel super alloy coatings.
Reversal of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Multi-Centric Analysis of Indications, Techniques, and Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Plath Liane , Vannijvel Marie , Okkema Sietske , Deleus Ellen , Lloyd Aaron , Lo Menzo Emanuele , Tadros George , Raguz Ivana , San Martin Andres , Kraljević Marko , Mantziari Styliani , Frey Sebastien , Gensthaler Lisa , Sammalkorpi Henna , García Galocha José Luis , Sujathan Vaishnavi , Zapata Amalia , Tatarian Talar , Wiggins Tom , Bardisi Ekhlas Samir , Goreux Jean-Philippe , Seki Yosuke , Kasama Kazunori , Himpens Jacques , Hollyman Marianne , Welbourn Richard , Aggarwal Rajesh , Beekley Alec , Sepulveda Matias , Torres Antonio , Juuti Anne , Salminen Paulina , Prager Gerhard , Iannelli Antonio , Suter Michel , Peterli Ralph , Boza Camilo , Rosenthal Raul , Higa Kelvin , Lannoo Matthias , Hazebroek Eric , Pring Christopher , Hawkins Will , Slater Guy , Dillemans Bruno , Bueter Marco , Gero Daniel
Published: January 2025

Background

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass may present long-term complications that require revisional surgery or even reversal to normal anatomy. Data on the indications, surgical technique, and outcomes of RYGB reversal remain scarce.

Methods

We identified 48 cases of RYGB reversals with complete 90-day follow-up within a multi-centric international retrospective database of elective secondary bariatric surgery. The operations were performed between 2010 and 2024 in high-volume referral centers in Europe and USA. Data were collected on body weight, associated diseases, and on surgical outcomes up to 1-year postoperatively.

Results

Patients were mainly female (81.3%) with a median age of 50 years (IQR 39–56). RYGB reversal was performed 7 years (median) after primary RYGB in patients with a BMI of 23.9 kg/m2 (IQR 20–27). Half of the patients underwent at least 1 bariatric revision before the reversal. Main indications for reversal were dumping syndrome (33.3%), excessive weight loss (29.2%), marginal ulcer (14.6%), malabsorption (12.5%), and abdominal pain (10.4%). Rate of conversion to open surgery was 8.3%, and the postoperative complications during the first year reached 50%, including 31.3% Clavien-Dindo grade I–II, 16.7% grade III–IV complications, and one death. At 1 year, the mean BMI of the cohort increased by 18% to 28.25 kg/m2; only 1 patient reached pre-RYGB BMI.

Conclusion

Although RYGB is a theoretically reversible procedure, normal anatomy is re-established only in selected cases which are refractory to medical therapy and often also to revisional bariatric surgery. RYGB reversals entail high morbidity, while the extent of recurrent weight gain at 1-year post-reversal seems to allow patients to remain below the threshold of severe obesity.
Outcomes of Trauma-Focused Psychological Therapies for Police Officers with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Steensma-Young Sylvia , Berle David
Published: January 2025

Trauma-focused therapies hold promise for reducing the symptoms of PTSD in police officers, but there remains a lack of certainty about the magnitude of improvement with these approaches. We aimed to determine the extent to which trauma-focused psychological therapies are effective for police officers. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted to provide a weighted estimate of the effect size of trauma-focused therapy in studies of police officers. Searches were conducted in PsycINFO, PTSDpubs, Medline and Embase databases. The screening of 1919 papers yielded four studies with 804 participants in total. The overall within subjects (pre-post) effect size was large (Hedges’ g = 1.81), suggesting that trauma-focused psychotherapy may reduce PTSD symptoms for police officers; however, the small pool of included studies necessitates caution and requires confirmation from additional studies. There remains a lack of rigorous controlled studies, potential for improved reporting practices and limited diversity and generalisability in the literature.
Spanish validation of the Body Image States Scale (BISS): evaluation of sensitivity to exposure to photographs on Instagram
Authors: Sierra Irene , Roncero María , Rodríguez-Testal Juan F. , Senín-Calderón Cristina
Published: January 2025

The aim of the present study was to validate the Spanish version of the Body Image State Scale (BISS) in a sample of Spanish males and females and to examine its psychometric properties. We evaluated the BISS as a measure of body image state using an experimental task to assess context sensitivity after exposure to attractive Instagram photographs. The sample consisted of 533 participants (M = 22.40, SD = 3.52). The unidimensional structure of the BISS as found by the authors of the original scale was corroborated. The BISS showed satisfactory internal consistency and full scalar invariance across sex. Negative relationships were found with a measure of dysmorphic concerns (Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire, [DCQ]) and body mass index (BMI). Mean difference analyses showed that participants in the experimental group evaluated their physical appearance as being worse after exposure to photographs of young men considered attractive. The Spanish validation of the BISS seems adequate for assessing state body image in the general population, opening a wide field of clinical and research applications.
Oligometastatic breast cancer from the perspective of the radiation oncologist
Authors: Konrad Stefan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Technical improvements over the last few years regarding administration of locally ablative radiotherapy to oligometastatic (OMD) and oligoprogressive (OPD) disease in breast cancer has created increased interest. This article gives an overview of the current situation from the perspective of a radiation oncologist.

Findings

Stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) is the most common form for applying ablative radiotherapy doses in metastases-directed therapy (MDT) to oligometastatic or oligoprogressive sites in breast cancer. To the present day, the literature mainly consists of retrospective or nonrandomized trials with mixed results. Nevertheless, there is a growing number of prospective randomized and phase III trials which will soon give us more data in this promising field.

Conclusion

With growing interest in treating patients with OMD or OPD in a curative intent, locally ablative therapies are gaining more importance. SBRT is a feasible modality with very good results in local disease control and a low toxicity profile and therefore a promising option for treating breast cancer patients with OMD or OPD. Nevertheless, current data does not yet back the routine use, with more prospective data expected soon. Until then, treatment options for those patients should be discussed individually.
Class III Phosphatidylinositol-3 Kinase/Vacuolar Protein Sorting 34 in Cardiovascular Health and Disease
Authors: Shen Yuanjun , Gleghorn Jason P.
Published: January 2025

Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinases (PI3Ks) play a critical role in maintaining cardiovascular health and the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Specifically, vacuolar Protein Sorting 34 (VPS34) or PIK3C3, the only member of Class III PI3K, plays an important role in CVD progression. The main function of VPS34 is inducing the production of phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate, which, together with other essential structural and regulatory proteins in forming VPS34 complexes, further regulates the mammalian target of rapamycin activation, autophagy, and endocytosis. VPS34 is found to have crucial functions in the cardiovascular system, including dictating the proliferation and survival of vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes and the formation of thrombosis. This review aims to summarize our current knowledge and recent advances in understanding the function and regulation of VPS34 in cardiovascular health and disease. We also discuss the current development of VPS34 inhibitors and their potential to treat CVDs.

Graphical Abstract
Numerical study on the application of low-turbulence air curtain surrounding laminar airflow distribution in operating rooms
Authors: Bi Yang , Hu Nan , Sadeghian Parastoo , Sadrizadeh Sasan , Asuero Von Munthe Af Morgenstierne Marina , Mathisen Hans Martin , Larkermani Elyas , Georges Laurent , Cao Guangyu
Published: January 2025

Laminar airflow (LAF) is essential for maintaining a sterile environment in operating rooms, but its rapid unidirectional flow decay leads to low airflow efficiency and increases energy consumption. The objective of this study is to investigate the energy-saving and air quality benefits of using a low-turbulence air curtain around laminar airflow, which is referred to as protective laminar airflow (PLAF). Numerical simulations were used to model airflow and particle transport, and a series of experiments were conducted in a real operating room at St. Olavs Hospital, Norway, to validate the simulation results. The findings indicate that when the unidirectional airflow supply velocity is maintained at 0.25 m/s, combined with an air curtain that has the width of 2 cm and the velocity of 1.5 m/s, the PLAF system outperforms the conventional LAF system operating at a unidirectional airflow supply velocity of 0.30 m/s. This configuration results in a 17.3% energy saving, showing the potential of this airflow distribution strategy to enhance both cleanliness and energy efficiency.
Affective polarization and democratic identity: a comparison of Italy and Norway
Authors: Bein Simon
Published: January 2025

On the one hand, political polarization is necessary for a plural democracy, which must never be satisfied with a permanent lack of alternatives regarding its central principles and values. On the other hand, polarization can become dysfunctional for democracy when the absoluteness of the rejection of political opponents leads to the endorsement of anti-democratic attitudes and measures, when politics is seen as a zero-sum game and the diversity of legitimate opinions, attitudes, and identities is neglected. The identity of democracy is to prevent this in the long run and to balance competing elements instead. Based on this premise, the article aims to explain why the extent of affective polarization in established democracies varies greatly, using Norway and Italy as two case studies according to the most similar case design. Accordingly, it argues for a holistic view of a country’s political culture that takes into account historical path dependencies and upheavals and thereby reveals whether a democratic society is more or less willing to accept and balance competing conceptions of democracy.
Insights into impact simulation and fatigue analysis of thermoplastically jointed lapshear specimens
Authors: Kreikemeier Janko , Opitz Steffen
Published: January 2025

The development process of an aircraft fuselage today shows a complex workflow from the first concept phase to the actual operational phase. On one hand, this has a direct impact on the efficiency of both the short-term ramp-up of aircraft production and long-term robustness. On the other hand, this prevents disruptive ideas for innovative architectures with integrated functionalities that enable significant mass savings, cost reduction, increased operational efficiency and the reduction of

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and NOx emissions. The ICASUS (ICASUS-Integrated Cabin-Airframe-System Fuselage, funded by European Joint Undertaking Clean Sky 2 No. JTI-CS2-CPW-LPA-02-01.) project focuses on the development of disruptive concepts and methodologies for an integrated airframe architecture in the cabin/cargo system and fuselage. For this purpose, an integrated approach was developed throughout the entire fuselage from the initial concept to the final operational phase, which directly takes into account several future functionalities and complex requirements from different disciplines. Technologies for future multifunctional structures have been developed to be applied to large-scale modules, future aircraft factories and customization aspects. Furthermore, the development of a novel thermoplastic material was significantly supported by DLR's (DLR-Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V./German Aerospace Center.) simulation and experimental material and subcomponent tests. This paper provides insights into numerical investigations of lapshear specimens subjected to impacts with varying energies. The main focus was on simulating the impact itself, as well as conducting subsequent fatigue and residual strength analyses.
Valorization of rice straw xylooligomers for biohydrogen production via cell-free synthetic enzymatic pathway
Authors: Khalil Ahmed Ismail , Hassan Maha Mohamed , Moustafa Hanan Moustafa Abdallah
Published: January 2025

Though first-generation biofuels threaten the world’s food supply, biomass-derived green hydrogen is becoming an alternative to conventional fuels. Rice straw (RS) is a non-edible and a good feedstock for producing hydrogen because it has significant levels of carbohydrates, which are easily converted into fermentable sugars. Xylooligomers (XOS) are the most prevalent oligomers in hemicellulose and can be obtained via the chemical and biological hydrolysis of xylan. In this study, XOS were prepared from rice straw xylan (RS-based xylan) using a modified acid hydrolysis process, and the produced XOS, specifically xylotriose (X3), was used for green hydrogen production using a cell-free synthetic enzymatic pathway (SythP) compared to commercial X3. This study reported the first-time green hydrogen production using XOS extracted from RS-based xylan. The results showed a great XOS production pattern from RS-based xylan upon addition of 5 µl of 4% sulfuric acid to 2% RS-based xylan, followed by autoclaving at 121 °C for 30 min. The synthesized XOS were used to generate hydrogen through water splitting at 50 °C via SythP. The hydrogen generation rates were 2.948 and 2.68 mmol/l, respectively, energized by commercial X3 and prepared X3, respectively. Accordingly, the hydrogen production rate utilizing the commercial one is slightly higher, which confirms that XOS made from RS-based xylan do not inhibit enzymes and efficiently produce hydrogen. Consequently, using lignocellulosic biomass to synthesize valuable XOS and their further application as an energy carrier is a promising sustainable approach for enzymatic green hydrogen production using the cell-free synthetic enzymatic pathway (SythP).
The Build Back Circular Framework: Circular Economy Strategies for Post-Disaster Reconstruction and Recovery
Authors: Çetin Sultan , Kirchherr Julian
Published: January 2025

Scholars have recently debated the potential of the circular economy (CE) as a crisis response strategy; however, concrete examples demonstrating its effectiveness in such applications remain limited. This study addresses this gap by investigating how CE principles—narrowing, slowing, closing, and regenerating resource loops— can be integrated into post-disaster reconstruction and recovery, with a focus on the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes in Türkiye. Using an exploratory qualitative research design, including an integrative literature review, workshop with 24 participants and 21 expert interviews, this study develops the Build Back Circular (BBC) framework. The framework proposes ten action strategies: (1) Upcycle, reuse or recycle post-disaster waste, (2) Integrate circular design principles, (3) Introduce circular policies, (4) Leverage digital technologies, (5) Raise awareness and expand knowledge, (6) Drive the market with circular business opportunities, (7) Involve local communities, (8) Improve cooperation and collaborations, (9) Integrate CE principles into post-disaster urban development, and (10) Stimulate the use of healthy, local, and biobased materials. These strategies aim not only to enhance resource efficiency and resilience but also to address the social dimensions of CE, promoting an inclusive recovery. Successful implementation requires a collaborative ecosystem of government, municipalities, academia, the construction sector, and civil society. By bridging the fields of CE and disaster management, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to integrate CE into post-disaster reconstruction and urban development processes. Beyond Türkiye’s recovery, it aims to support global disaster risk frameworks (e.g., UN’s Sendai Framework), enhancing crisis management through a CE lens.
Explanation in Biology
Authors: Ross Lauren N.
Published: January 2025

This Element examines philosophical accounts of scientific explanation, particularly those that apply to biology and the life sciences. Two main categories of scientific explanation are examined in detail –causal explanations and non-causal explanations. The first section of this Element provides a brief history and some basics on philosophical accounts of scientific explanation. Section 2 covers causal explanation, first by discussing foundational topics in the area, such as defining causation, causal selection, and reductive explanation. This is followed by an examination of distinct types of causal explanation, including those that appeal to mechanisms pathways, and cascades. The third section covers non-causal, mathematical explanations, which have received significant attention in philosophy of biology and the life sciences. Three main types of non-causal, mathematical explanation are discussed: topological and constraint-based explanation, optimality and efficiency explanations, and minimal model explanations. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Celestial and Stellar Dynamics
Authors: Ryden Barbara
Published: January 2025

Although the field of celestial dynamics – the application of Newtonian dynamics to systems with a relatively small number of celestial bodies – is centuries old, it has been reinvigorated by the discovery of thousands of exoplanetary systems orbiting other stars. This textbook uses the properties of planetary systems, including own Solar System, to illustrate the rich variety of behavior permitted by Newton's law of gravity. The textbook then expands its view to examine stellar dynamics – the study of systems containing a very large number of stars or other celestial bodies. The different techniques used for celestial dynamics and stellar dynamics are compared and contrasted. However, throughout the text, emphasis is placed on the underlying physics that applies on scales as small as the Earth–Moon system and as large as a cluster of galaxies. It is ideal for a 1-semester astrophysical dynamics course for upper-level undergraduates and starting graduate students.
Hydrodynamic diffusion in apolar active suspensions of squirmers
Authors: Ge Zhouyang , Elfring Gwynn J.
Published: January 2025

Active suspensions encompass a wide range of complex fluids containing microscale energy-injecting particles, such as cells, bacteria or artificially powered active colloids. Because they are intrinsically non-equilibrium, active suspensions can display a number of fascinating phenomena, including turbulent-like large-scale coherent motion and enhanced diffusion. Here, using a recently developed active fast Stokesian dynamics method, we present a detailed numerical study of the hydrodynamic diffusion in apolar active suspensions of squirmers. Specifically, we simulate suspensions of active but non-self-propelling spherical squirmers (or ‘shakers’), of either puller type or pusher type, at volume fractions from 0.5 % to 55 %. Our results show little difference between pulling and pushing shakers in their instantaneous and long-time dynamics, where the translational dynamics varies non-monotonically with the volume fraction, with a peak diffusivity at around 10 % to 20 %, in stark contrast to suspensions of self-propelling particles. On the other hand, the rotational dynamics tends to increase with the volume fraction as is the case for self-propelling particles. To explain these dynamics, we provide detailed scaling and statistical analyses based on the activity-induced hydrodynamic interactions and the observed microstructural correlations, which display a weak local order. Overall, these results elucidate and highlight the different effects of particle activity versus motility on the collective dynamics and transport phenomena in active fluids.
Poiseuille flow of a concentrated suspension of squirmers
Authors: Ishikawa T. , Brumley D.R. , Pedley T. J.
Published: January 2025

Poiseuille flow is a fundamental flow in fluid mechanics and is driven by a pressure gradient in a channel. Although the rheology of active particle suspensions has been investigated extensively, knowledge of the Poiseuille flow of such suspensions is lacking. In this study, dynamic simulations of a suspension of active particles in Poiseuille flow, situated between two parallel walls, were conducted by Stokesian dynamics assuming negligible inertia. Active particles were modelled as spherical squirmers. In the case of inert spheres in Poiseuille flow, the distribution of spheres between the walls was layered. In the case of non-bottom-heavy squirmers, on the other hand, the layers collapsed and the distribution became more uniform. This led to a much larger pressure drop for the squirmers than for the inert spheres. The effects of volume fraction, swimming mode, swimming speed and the wall separation on the pressure drop were investigated. When the squirmers were bottom heavy, they accumulated at the channel centre in downflow, whereas they accumulated near the walls in upflow, as observed in former experiments. The difference in squirmer configuration alters the hydrodynamic force on the wall and hence the pressure drop and effective viscosity. In upflow, pusher squirmers induced a considerably larger pressure drop, while neutral and puller squirmers could even generate negative pressure drops, i.e. spontaneous flow could occur. While previous studies have reported negative viscosity of pusher suspensions, this study shows that the effective viscosity of bottom-heavy puller suspensions can be negative for Poiseuille upflow, which is a new finding. The knowledge obtained is important for understanding channel flow of active suspensions.
Northern Ireland Childcare Strategy: A Work in Progress?
Authors: Chapman Alexandra , Fitzpatrick Ciara
Published: January 2025

Northern Ireland has been without a Childcare Strategy for more than a decade – the only region in the United Kingdom (UK) that does not have one. As a devolved responsibility, progress in childcare has been significantly limited, and there is currently no government-funded childcare provision available. This is compared to England, Scotland, and Wales, where investment to expand provision has been introduced to help parents meet the cost of childcare by providing funded entitlement. This article examines and discusses policy developments in early education and childcare in Northern Ireland and the other UK nations. It is argued that the lack of progress by the Northern Ireland Executive to develop a Childcare Strategy overlooks it’s economic and social importance and reflects how childcare continues to be underfunded and undervalued.