bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole-genome resequencing to investigate the genetic diversity and mechanisms of plateau adaptation in Tibetan sheep
Authors: Li Xue , Han Buying , Liu Dehui , Wang Song , Wang Lei , Pei Quanbang , Zhang Zian , Zhao Jincai , Huang Bin , Zhang Fuqiang , Zhao Kai , Tian Dehong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Tibetan sheep, economically important animals on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, have diversified into numerous local breeds with unique characteristics through prolonged environmental adaptation and selective breeding. However, most current research focuses on one or two breeds, and lacks a comprehensive representation of the genetic diversity across multiple Tibetan sheep breeds. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the genetic structure, diversity and high-altitude adaptation of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds using whole-genome resequencing data.

Results

Six Tibetan sheep breeds were investigated in this study, and whole-genome resequencing data were used to investigate their genetic structure and population diversity. The results showed that the 6 Tibetan sheep breeds exhibited distinct separation in the phylogenetic tree; however, the levels of differentiation among the breeds were minimal, with extensive gene flow observed. Population structure analysis broadly categorized the 6 breeds into 3 distinct ecological types: plateau-type, valley-type and Euler-type. Analysis of unique single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and selective sweeps between Argali and Tibetan sheep revealed that Tibetan sheep domestication was associated primarily with sensory and signal transduction, nutrient absorption and metabolism, and growth and reproductive characteristics. Finally, comprehensive analysis of selective sweep and transcriptome data suggested that Tibetan sheep breeds inhabiting different altitudes on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau adapt by enhancing cardiopulmonary function, regulating body fluid balance through renal reabsorption, and modifying nutrient digestion and absorption pathways.

Conclusion

In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds in Qinghai Province, China. Additionally, we analyzed the domestication traits and investigated the unique adaptation mechanisms residing varying altitudes in the plateau region of Tibetan sheep. This study provides valuable insights into the evolutionary processes of Tibetan sheep in extreme environments. These findings will also contribute to the preservation of genetic diversity and offer a foundation for Tibetan sheep diversity preservation and plateau animal environmental adaptation mechanisms.
Retraction Note: Embelin alleviates weaned piglets intestinal inflammation and barrier dysfunction via PCAF/NF-κB signaling pathway in intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Yao Weilei , Wang Tongxin , Huang Lu , Bao Zhengxi , Wen Shu , Huang Feiruo
Published: December 2024

This article has been retracted. Please see the Retraction Notice for more detail: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40104-022-00787-z.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence and risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Nigeria
Authors: Olamoyegun Michael Adeyemi , Alare Kehinde , Afolabi Samson Adedeji , Aderinto Nicholas , Adeyemi Taiwo
Published: December 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major global non-communicable disease, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Its prevalence in Nigeria is driven by various risk factors. This review assesses the national and regional prevalence and risk factors of T2DM in Nigeria.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, African Journals Online) and gray literature were searched for English-language studies. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Data were extracted with Microsoft Excel and analyzed using Stata version 16 software. Random effect meta-regression analysis at 95% CI was used to assess pooled prevalence and risk factors. Heterogeneity was determined using the I2 statistic, and publication bias was evaluated with a funnel plot.

Results

Sixty studies from different Nigerian geopolitical zones met eligibility criteria, with a total sample size of 124,876 participants and a mean age of 48 ± 9.8 years. The pooled prevalence of T2DM in Nigeria was 7.0% (95% CI: 5.0-9.0%). Moderate publication bias was observed. The South-south zone had the highest prevalence at 11.35% (95% CI: 4.52-20.72%), while the North-central zone had the lowest at 2.03% (95% CI: 1.09-3.40%). Significant risk factors included family history (9.73), high socioeconomic status (6.72), physical inactivity (5.92), urban living (4.79), BMI > 25/m2 (3.07), infrequent vegetable consumption (2.68), and abdominal obesity (1.81).

Conclusion

The prevalence of T2DM in Nigeria (7.0%) nearly doubled the 2019 International Diabetes Federation estimate (3.7%) and shows a 21.3% increase from the 2019 review. Efforts should focus on modifying identified risk factors to reduce prevalence and prevent complications.
Chemical profiling and clustering of various dried cannabis flowers revealed by volatilomics and chemometric processing
Authors: Janta Pannipa , Vimolmangkang Sornkanok
Published: December 2024

Cannabis flower scent is one of the key characteristics of the cannabis plant. The diverse scents impact user experiences and offer medicinal benefits. These scents originate from volatile compounds, particularly terpenes and terpenoids. This study characterized the volatile profile of 19 different dried cannabis flowers using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry coupled with headspace-solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME-GC-MS). A total of 75 compounds were identified, including alcohols, aldehydes, benzenes, esters, ketone, monoterpenes, monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenes, and sesquiterpenoids. Cluster analysis was able to group the 19 cannabis cultivars into five clusters based on volatile chemotypes using chemometric techniques of hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Potential discriminant markers of each cultivar were then analyzed using a supervised partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) verified through Variable Importance in Projection values (VIP), identifying twenty discriminant markers. In addition, the correlations among 75 volatile compounds were also obtained. The findings of this study provide a valuable database of single cannabis cultivars, useful for identifying individual strains and verifying their quality. Clustering the cultivars by volatile chemotype can be used for the classification of cannabis in the market. The results of this study are expected to be a starting point for further cannabis breeding programs to expand knowledge of this plant. Furthermore, the proposed method is applicable to other aroma plants in the future.
Decolorizing of seaweed extract by electrocoagulation
Authors: Akoetey Winifred , Caton Simon , Lai Edward , Hosseinian Farah
Published: December 2024

Electrocoagulation (EC) is a technique commonly used in wastewater treatment to remove biological and chemical contaminants, but the process has the potential to be used in clarifying plant extracts for the isolation and identification of secondary metabolites. Seaweed extracts contain copious amounts of chlorophyll and other pigments that obscure the characterization of secondary metabolites such as phenolic acids and flavonoids. In place of conventional methods that utilize solvents, EC can potentially be applied to clarify and fractionate extracts. In this research, an EC duration of 30 min (22 V, 0.3–0.5A) with aluminum electrodes resulted in a significant decrease, about 76%, of chlorophyll and 70% of carotenoids from seaweed extract measured at 666 nm and 410 nm. The decrease in extract green and yellow color intensity also mirrored a decrease in total phenolic content (TPC) of the extract from 54 ± 1.55 mg GAE/g DW to 3.2 ± 0.01 mg GAE/g DW after 30 min of EC. However, the phenolic acid profile of the extract after electrocoagulation via HPLC-RP indicated the removal of an interference probably caused by polymeric compounds from the extract, thus leaving the simple phenolic acids in solution for detection. The major phenolic acids detected in seaweed crude extract were p-coumaric, o-coumaric, ferulic and syringic acid. Flavonoids detected included catechin, epicatechin, quercetin-3-glucoside and rutin. The results of this study show the potential of replacing conventional plant extract purification methods with a green method that requires no additional solvent.

Graphical Abstract
Oncology and Primary Care Involvement in Breast Cancer Survivorship Care More Than 5 Years After Initial Treatment
Authors: Radhakrishnan Archana , Furgal Allison K.C. , Hamilton Ann S. , Ward Kevin C. , Veenstra Christine , Hawley Sarah T. , Katz Steven J. , Lee Joy L. , Wallner Lauren P.
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE

Very little is known about primary care involvement in the care of cancer survivors beyond the initial 5 years post-treatment when transitioning to primary care is guideline-recommended for many survivors.

METHODS

The ICanCare study is a longitudinal survey of women diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014-2015 identified in the Georgia and Los Angeles SEER registries. Women were surveyed during initial treatment and again approximately 6 years later in survivorship (2021-2022; n = 1,412, 60% response rate). Respondents were asked which provider led their survivorship care (oncology, shared care, primary care provider [PCP]) and PCP management of eight common survivorship issues (range, 0-32). Multivariable-adjusted associations of participant characteristics with survivorship care delivery and PCP management of survivorship issues were evaluated using logistic and linear regression models, respectively.

RESULTS

Over half of the women (57.2%) reported oncologist-led survivorship care delivery, 20.5% shared care, and 22.4% PCP-led. PCP management of survivorship issues was moderate (mean, 11.4, 95% CI, 11.0 to 11.8) and was highest (often/always discussed) for medication management (50.1%), improving physical activity (49.1%), and chronic disease management (43.6%). Greater confidence in PCP's ability to manage survivorship care (
v
no or little confidence) was associated with PCP-led delivery (
P
= .01) and more PCP management of survivorship issues (
P
< .0001).

CONCLUSION

In this diverse cohort of breast cancer survivors, primary care involvement in survivorship care delivery and management of common survivorship issues remains low even more than 5 years after completing treatment and little variation was seen across survivor sociodemographic or clinical characteristics. Confidence in PCP ability to manage survivorship care was found to be important and may represent an opportunity to foster transition to primary care-led survivorship care delivery.
KRAS
Variants Are Associated With Survival Outcomes and Genomic Alterations in Biliary Tract Cancers
Authors: Gelfer Rebecca , Gulla Aiste , Kalvin Hannah L. , Song Yi , Harding James , Abou-Alfa Ghassan K. , O'Reilly Eileen M. , Park Wungki , Chandwani Rohit , Wei Alice , Kingham Peter , Drebin Jeffrey , Balachandran Vinod , D'Angelica Michael , Soares Kevin , Gonen Mithat , Jarnagin William R.
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE

KRAS
variants are associated with poor outcomes in biliary tract cancers (BTCs). This study assesses the prevalence of
KRAS
variants and their association with survival and recurrence in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHC), extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (EHC), and gallbladder adenocarcinoma (GB).

METHODS

In this cross-sectional, single-institution study at Memorial Sloan Kettering, tumors from 985 patients treated between 2004 and 2022 with IHC, EHC, and GB who underwent either curative-intent resection or were treated with chemotherapy for unresectable disease were used for targeted sequencing.

RESULTS

Of the 985 patients sequenced, 15% had a
KRAS
mutation. Five hundred and seventy-two had unresectable disease (n = 395 IHC, n = 71 EHC, n = 106 GB) and 413 were treated with curative-intent resection (n = 175 IHC, n = 119 EHC, and n = 119 GB). Median follow-up time was 18 months (IQR, 11-31).
KRAS G12D
mutations were most common in IHC (38%) and EHC (37%) tumors. Mutations in
SF3B1
co-occurred with mutant
KRAS
in IHC and EHC, with comutant resectable patients having worse survival after adjusting for tumor type (hazard ratio [HR], 4.04 [95% CI, 1.45 to 11.2];
P
= .007).
KRAS G12
mutations were associated with worse survival in patients with IHC compared with wild-type (WT) or other
KRAS
mutations, regardless of resection status (unresectable
P
< .001, resectable
P
= .011). After adjusting for clinical covariates,
KRAS
G12 mutations remained a prognostic indicator for patients with IHC compared with WT (HR, 1.99 [95% CI, 1.41 to 2.80];
P
< .001).

CONCLUSION

The adverse impact of
KRAS
mutations in BTC is driven by G12 alterations in patients with IHC regardless of resection status, which was not observed in GB or EHC. There are unique comutational partners in distinct BTC subsets. These differences have important clinical implications in the era of KRAS-targeted therapeutics.
The Expanding Carceral Geography of Sweden and Counter-politics of Care
Authors: Philipson Isaac Sarah
Published: December 2024

This essay explores the entanglement of racial capitalism, carceral geographies, and counter-politics of care within the sociopolitical landscape of Sweden. It analyzes the government's response to gang violence in 2023, which mobilized the figure of a “racial threat” in advocating for the creation of “security zones” and militarized interventions. This approach, rooted in a so-called caring racism, argues for the protection of the welfare state by excluding and expelling racialized others. Understanding capitalism as requiring inequality, sustained by racism, Sweden's expansion of carceral geographies must arguably be read through a racial capitalism lens—where policing and border regimes are necessary to produce and control surplus populations. Through ethnographic engagements and social media interactions, the essay examines how marginalized communities navigate economies of dispossession, focusing on the resistance mounted by urban social justice movements against austerity measures and repressive policies—for a counter-politics of care rooted in abolitionism. Situating these developments within a broader political economy framework, the essay underscores the role of carceral geographies in perpetuating capitalist exploitation and authoritarian rule, while calling for a reevaluation of care as a site of resistance against state-sanctioned violence, offering insights into avenues for radical change amid growing precarity and injustice.
Pandemic Care in a Spectral Welfare State
Authors: Edenheim Sara
Published: December 2024

To refer to Sweden as a good example of care and welfare reforms has been common among many US scholars all through the 1990s until today. In this article, the author tries to understand why the Swedish pandemic strategy during 2020–21 was met with surprise and confusion, most visible in the US where the political divide between for-or-against lockdown, that is, for or against free access to public spaces, made the right-wing refer to Sweden in positive terms. In Sweden it was the extreme right-wing party, the Swedish Democrats (founded by neo-Nazis), that expressed an explicit belief in complete lockdowns, while in the United States it was the Democrats and the liberal left.
Narratology Talks to the Talking Cure in Persuasion
Authors: Jones Wendy
Published: December 2024

This essay puts Persuasion in conversation with psychotherapeutic approaches to Austen and cognitive literary studies (more broadly, approaches that draw on the sciences of mind). Narrative therapy provides a heuristic for Persuasion, accounting for Anne Elliot's recovery from melancholy to achieve a sense of well-being. In line with the goals of narrative therapy, she learns to tell a different story about herself than the one that has oppressed her since her broken engagement. The novel represents the therapeutic elements involved in such reenvisioning, including validation; holding; the availability of alternative, better narratives as models; and awareness of the cultural factors that have contributed to her state of mind. Conversely, narratology accounts for the representation of Anne's experience, showing how literary devices, including embedded narrative, focalization, and voice, convey Anne's transformation from melancholy and passive spinster to active and vital woman who defends her actions and renews her engagement on better terms. This transformation depends not only on interpersonal exchanges but also on her realization that cultural “master narratives” infiltrate our most intimate stories.
Como fortalecer conexões no ecossistema de inovação
Authors: Felizola Matheus Pereira Mattos , Marques Jane Aparecida , De Aragão Iracema Machado , Silva Amanda Luiza Soares
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: propor um modelo de conexão entre os atores de um ecossistema de inovação.
Estado da arte: o conceito de ecossistema de inovação está ligado a um ambiente dinâmico e interconectado, no qual coexistem empreendedores, empresas de variados portes, instituições acadêmicas e científicas, incubadoras e aceleradoras, governo, associações e diversos outros atores. Analisar e gerenciar a conexão entre diferentes atores é, portanto, fundamental para odesenvolvimento de um ecossistema de inovação.
Escopo: o estudo envolveu uma revisão sistemática da literatura e estudo de casos múltiplos em quatro estados brasileiros (Rio Grande do Sul, Paraná, Santa Catarina e Sergipe), 30 cidades e 147 habitats de inovação.
Originalidade: a pesquisa originou modelo inédito de análise da conexão de um ecossistema de inovação, a partir das necessidades que emergiram no estudo de casos múltiplos e das lacunas da literatura acadêmica.
Impactos: o modelo de análise de um211ssistema de inovação parte de uma abordagem enxuta e ágil para ser utilizado por qualquer cidade brasileira, e está ancorado em 10 passos metodológicos para sua efetivação.
Palavras-chave: ecossistema, empreendedorismo, inovação, modelo de conexão.
Μία κριτική προσέγγιση στη φιλοσοφική σημασία της έννοιας της θρησκείας στον Miguel de Unamuno
Authors: Κουτσόπετρα Ευδοκία
Published: December 2024

Στη διδακτορική μου διατριβή εξετάζω από φιλοσοφική σκοπιά τις έννοιες της θρησκείας και της αθανασίας της ψυχής στον φιλοσοφικό στοχασμό του Ισπανού Miguel de Unamuno. Σε πρώτο επίπεδο, αναδεικνύω τα στοιχεία εκείνα της σκέψης του που τον εντάσσουν στο πλαίσιο της φιλοσοφίας της ύπαρξης, μέσω των ομοιοτήτων που παρουσιάζει με ορισμένους από τους σημαντικότερους εκπροσώπους του ρεύματος αυτού, όπως ο Søren Kierkegaard, ο Gabriel Marcel, o Jean-Paul Sartre, ο Martin Heidegger κ.α., και ακολούθως καταπιάνομαι με την εξέταση της διττής διάστασης που λαμβάνει η έννοια της θρησκείας καθώς και της θεμελιώδους σημασίας του ερωτήματος περί της αθανασίας της ψυχής στην σκέψη του Ισπανού φιλοσόφου. Προκειμένου για την πραγμάτευση του τελευταίου ζητήματος θα επιστρατεύσω στοιχεία από τη φιλοσοφία του Bergson, γι’ αυτό σε αυτό το σημείο κάνω λόγο για τη φιλοσοφία της ζωής, όπως αυτή παρουσιάζεται μέσα από τον Γάλλο Henri Bergson. Ακολούθως, εκθέτω τον ευρύτερο φιλοσοφικό στοχασμό του Miguel de Unamuno, που αφορά στη θεώρηση της πραγματικότητας, της γνώσης και της πίστης αλλά και της έννοιας της ενδοϊστορίας, όρου της ισπανικής γλώσσας εισηγμένου από τον Unamuno, που άπτεται της ηθικής. Εν συνεχεία, μέσω της θεωρίας της συνείδησης του Bergson επιχειρώ να απαντήσω στο ερώτημα περί της αθανασίας της ψυχής, όπως αυτό τίθεται υπό το πρίσμα της σκέψης του Unamuno εξετάζοντας τους όρους και τις προϋποθέσεις που θέτει ο Ισπανός φιλόσοφος. Σε αυτό το πλαίσιο εντάσσεται και η συγκριτική συνεξέταση θεματικών όπως η ελευθερία, η αναζήτηση του εαυτού, η πίστη και ο λόγος στον Unamuno και τον Begrson.
An open label, single arm, pilot study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of daily fluconazole 150 mg in subjects suffering from Tinea cruris and Tinea corporis
Authors: Saple Dattatray Gopal , Save Sushrut , Kumar Devesh , Sood Suneet
Published: December 2024

Background Dermatophytes are the most common superficial fungal infections worldwide and are treated with prescribed regimens of terbinafine and itraconazole, or with weekly doses of fluconazole. Dermatologists are increasingly encountering treatment failures, and experts suggest that standard treatment regimens are not applicable anymore. We planned an open-label study to evaluate the results of fluconazole 150 mg daily for 8 weeks in patients with tinea cruris and tinea corporis. Methods Patients were enrolled from the La’Mer Clinic, Mumbai, India. We included adult subjects with uncomplicated dermatophytosis confirmed by microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Pregnancy, poor renal function, and recent exposure to anti-fungal therapy were exclusion criteria. Patients were reviewed on days 14, 28 and 56. The treating doctor scored the severity of erythema, scaling, and pruritus on a four-point scale: absent, mild, moderate, and severe. Of 107 subjects screened, 100 were finally included in the study. Eleven were lost to follow up and one subject withdrew consent. Results The site of disease was body alone in 29, groin alone in 7, and both body and groin in 64 cases. At 5 weeks, 98%, 100%, and 97% of patients had no scaling, erythema, and pruritus, respectively. Skin scrapings showed 100% mycological cure. In one patient the alanine transaminase level rose from 54.9 to 100.2 U/L, and qualified as a grade 1 adverse event not requiring intervention. No other significant adverse events were noted. Conclusions Our results suggest that fluconazole 150 mg daily for eight weeks effectively treats dermatophytosis. This regimen is safe and well-tolerated even in patients with co-morbidities. Fluconazole is about eight times less expensive than itraconazole or terbinafine and may be the preferred therapy. Registration The trial was registered with Clinical Trials Registry, India (Registration number CTRI/2020/06/026110) on 24 June 2020. FDC Company, India, provided financial support for the study.
Women’s representation in higher leadership positions in Ethiopia in the last three decades since 1991
Authors: Chekol Degu Zeynie , Hadaro Hando Flimon
Published: December 2024

Gender equality in decision-making positions is crucial to achieving the goals of good governance, peace, democracy, and inclusive/sustainable development. The major aim of this research article is to investigate the representation trend of women in higher decision-making positions over the last thirty years, since 1991. The federal three organs of government (law formulating, law enforcing, and law interpreting bodies) were the focus of this research. This research is a mixed type of research that inculcates both qualitative and quantitative data types. Secondary data sources from relevant government institutions were mostly used. The data was analyzed through content analysis of documents and presented via descriptive data presenting techniques. The research findings reveal that although women’s representation in positions of decision-making has advanced considerably in recent years, the empirical data throughout the previous thirty years demonstrated the underrepresentation of women in higher leadership positions within the Ethiopian federal government. Furthermore, Women never held certain higher-level government leadership positions, such as the Prime Minister position, which seems to be forbidden for women. Women made up 23%, 19%, 19%, and 24% of the House of Peoples Representatives (HPR), the House of Federation (HoF), ministerial posts, and judicial bodies, respectively over the last three decades. Women are visibly underrepresented in the executive positions as compared to others. Thus, substantial policy and practical initiatives are needed to remove institutional, social, and economic barriers to boost women’s advanced visibility in senior leadership roles.
Recent Advances in Biopesticide Research and Development with a Focus on Microbials
Authors: Tadesse Mawcha Kahsay , Malinga Lawrence , Muir Debbie , Ge Jing , Ndolo Dennis
Published: December 2024

Biopesticides are pest control products derived from natural sources such as microbes, macro-organisms (insects and pathogens), plant extracts, and certain minerals. Many biopesticides are considered environmentally safe and can complement or substitute conventional chemical pesticides. They can also be highly specific or broad spectrum with a unique mode of action controlling a wide range of pest species. Due to their target-specificity and low to no environmental residuality, biopesticides conform to the 3 pillars of Climate-Smart Agriculture, the Sustainable Development Goals, and, ultimately, the Paris Agreement. This review focuses largely on microbial biopesticides derived from fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes. It discusses (i) the various microbial biopesticide formulations, (ii) the mode of microbial biopesticide action, (iii) the factors that affect the potential efficacy of biopesticides, (iv) challenges to the adoption of microbial biopesticides, and (v) the role of microbial biopesticides in Integrated Pest Management programs. Finally, advancements in application techniques, as well as future research directions and gaps, are highlighted.
Role modeling and Snack Choices of young adults: The mediating role of meal planning
Authors: Kiggwe Musa , Ntayi Joseph , K. Nabatanzi-Muyimba Annet , Byarugaba Jotham , Timothy Esemu , C. Munene John
Published: December 2024

Objective This study aimed to examine the mediating role of meal planning in the relationship between role modeling and snack choice. Methods and Measures The study was correlational and quantitative in nature. The study selected a sample of 403 university students. We collected data through interviews using a questionnaire. We analyzed the data using SPSS 23.0.0.0 (IBM Corp; 1989, 2015) (Build 1607) and AMOS 23.0.0 (IBM Corp; 1983, 2015) (Build 1607) software for correlational and Confirmatory factor tests. We used the bootstrapping technique to test for the mediation effect of meal planning. Results Meal planning had a full mediation effect between role modeling and snack choice. This means that Role modeling had a significant influence on meal planning, meal planning had a significant influence on snack choice, and role modeling had no significant influence on snack choice. Conclusion when young people admire other people’s eating habits it leads them to plan their meals and choose similar snacks to their role models. Future studies should consider studying the effect that role models’ proximity has on snack choices among young people in other contexts.
Comments about the comparative bulk RNA sequencing between palmoplantar pustulosis and dyshidrotic palmoplantar eczema
Authors: Yatsuzuka Kazuki , Muto Jun , Murakami Masamoto
Published: December 2024

This correspondence discusses the recent findings by Straalen et al., highlighting molecular similarities and distinctions between palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) and dyshidrotic palmoplantar eczema (DPE). The study emphasizes shared proinflammatory pathways and T-cell–related gene upregulation while detailing unique features such as neutrophil involvement in PPP and lipid antigen processing in DPE. We elaborate on histopathological differences, especially intraepidermal vesicle formation in PPP linked to IL–1–mediated pathways and the absence of hyaluronan expression, contrasting with Th2 cytokines-driven spongiosis in DPE. By addressing IL-4, hyaluronan synthases, and keratinocyte adhesion molecules, this correspondence aims to deepen understanding of PPP and DPE pathophysiology.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Airline Customer Service
Authors: Boldycheva A.
Published: December 2024

The article examines the scope of artificial intelligence for analyzing the behavior of airline customers, identifying their preferences, as well as bottlenecks in communication and customer support. Expected trends and innovations in the use of these technologies include the development of deep machine learning models, speech recognition and generation (NLP) technologies, integration with multichannel platforms, advanced analytical tools and automation of complex tasks. The introduction of these technologies into airline customer support not only improves the efficiency and quality of service, but also helps to create a more personalized and adaptive experience for passengers. In the face of increasing competition and customer expectations, Artificial Intelligence is becoming a key factor in ensuring the sustainable development and competitive advantages of airlines.
Nowe wyzwania w zakresie zwalczania przemytu migrantów w Unii Europejskiej
Authors: Gajda Anastazja
Published: December 2024

NEW CHALLENGES IN COMBATING MIGRANT SMUGGLING IN THE EUROPEAN UNIONMigrant smuggling is an international crime that threatens people’s lives, violates fundamental rights and disrupts the proper management of migration flows. Preventing and combating migrant smuggling is one of the important elements of the EU’s migration policy. The EU has been taking initiatives to combat this practice for many years. The article presents current legal and policy solutions that are used to combat migrant smuggling. In addition, the new legislation that the European Commission presented in November 2023 is also presented. The aim of these new proposals is to update and strengthen existing regulations to address new challenges posed by the continuously evolving modus operandi of smugglers. While the Union has taken significant steps in recent years in preventing and combating migrant smuggling, new challenges continue to emerge, necessitating intensified efforts and a renewed comprehensive approach in addition to the existing challenges.
Słowianie jako INNI Europejczycy. Egzostereotypy Słowian i wartości słowiańskich w opinii zagranicznych studentów krakowskiej europeistyki
Authors: Kołodziej Jacek H.
Published: December 2024

SLAVS AS THE OTHER EUROPEANS. SLAVIC EXO-STEREOTYPES AND VALUES IN THE EYES OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS OF EUROPEAN STUDIES IN KRAKÓW
Slavs make an important ethnographic metacategory, pointing the largest ethnolinguistic group in ethnos-rich Europe. The cultural identity of the Slavs is a mosaic of many communities, historically linked to territories from Moscow in the east to Cologne in the west, and from Danzig to Athens. In modern Europe, however, Slavicness has lost its political significance and has moved to the background of European identities. At the same time, proto-Slavic themes do not cease to be the subject of reconstructions and romantic stylisations, and proto- Slavic beliefs and customs provide further inspiration for pop-cultural productions. The text describes the results of a survey of international students in European Studies. The analysis is based on a questionnaire (20 respondents) and 2 focus interviews, conducted with 2 groups of the youngest and the most senior students. The surveyed students mostly represent cultural models belonging to the broadly defined circle of Western values. The aim of the analysis was to reconstruct the identity of Slavs as seen from the outside, as well as to reconstruct the proportion between common, stereotypical beliefs and scientific knowledge among students of European Studies.
Relación entre criterios ESG y el costo de capital en empresas latinoamericanas pertenecientes a los Dow Jones Sustainability Index
Authors: Agudelo Alzate Sara Manuela , Díaz Cano Maria José , Ocampo del Rio Carolina , Correa-García Jaime Andrés
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: identificar la relación existente entre la implementación de estándares de sostenibilidad ESG yel costo de capital (WACC) de las empresas latinoamericanas. Metodología: se tomó como muestra las empresas que formaron parte de los índices de sostenibilidad Dow Jones (DJSI) entre 2018 y 2022. Con los datos obtenidos se aplicó la metodología de panel de datos. Resultados principales: se evidenció una relación positiva entre el desempeño ESG y el WACC de las empresas latinoamericanas; además, de forma individual se indicó que la calificación del criterio gobernanza es el que mayor influencia tiene en el WACC. Conclusiones: a partir de esto, se estableció que en Latinoamérica los proveedores de capital aún no consideran el desempeño sostenible de las empresas como una variable clave en la toma de decisiones,
Evaluation of Infants Hospitalized in Intensive Care Unit Due to Acute Severe Bronchiolitis in Terms of Recurrent Wheezing or Asthma Development
Authors: Selmanoğlu Ahmet , Genis Cankat , Çelik Hatice Irmak , Özcan Serhan , Sengul Emeksiz Zeynep , Dibek Mısırlıoğlu Emine
Published: December 2024

Objective: Bronchiolitis stands out as the most prevalent lower respiratory tract infection among young children. Severe bronchiolitis, or bronchiolitis requiring admission to the hospital, affects 2-3% of all infants. The aim of this study was to evaluate individuals who were followed up in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) due to severe bronchiolitis in terms of asthma development.

Material and Methods: Patients who were admitted Ankara Bilkent City Hospital PICU between January 2013 and December 2022, who were diagnosed with severe bronchiolitis and who had no additional systemic disease were included in the study. Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients, intensive care support treatments, duration of hospital stays, atopic conditions, and respiratory viral panel cultures was documented. The current clinical condition of the patients was documented through hospital records and telephone interviews conducted with their caregivers. The existence of asthma symptoms and the utilization of treatments within the last 12 months were evaluated according to the guidelines of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) and the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire.

Results: The mean age of the 60 patients admitted to the intensive care unit who met the study criteria was 13.5±7.2 months. The mean age of the children at the time of the study was 42.5 months. Male gender was more predominant (n=39, 65%). The mean number of days that respiratory support was received in intensive care was 4.9 (±3.5) days and the mean number of days of systemic steroid therapy was 3.8 (±1.7) days. In the viral respiratory tract, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) was isolated at the highest frequency in 27 patients, accounting for 45%, followed by rhinovirus (n=6, 10%) and Bocavirus (n=5, 8.3%). The number of patients receiving current asthma treatment was (n=33, 55%). Upon assessing the current status, it was found that there had been 25 (41.6%) patients with asthma attacks over the past 12 months.

Conclusion: This study revealed that over half of the patients who experienced severe bronchiolitis subsequently developed asthma, with some not being referred to an allergy clinic. Furthermore, it was observed that certain patients, despite presenting with asthma symptoms, were unaware that these symptoms were attributable to asthma. We recommend that patients admitted to the PICU with a diagnosis of severe bronchiolitis be closely monitored for the potential development of asthma and that families be thoroughly informed at the time of discharge.
Evaluation of a pouching system with a concave contour for people with an outward peristomal body profile
Authors: Vestergaard Martin , Hansen Mads Fuglesang , Boisen Esben Bo , Dambæk Marianne Raff
Published: December 2024

People with an outward peristomal body profile can experience difficulties obtaining a secure seal with a flat baseplate to the peristomal skin. Baseplates with a concave contour have been designed to provide a better fit to curved body profiles and reduce the risk of leakage. In this 4-week product evaluation, 110 individuals with an outward peristomal body profile using flat one-piece pouching systems were enrolled to evaluate the impact of a concave one-piece pouching system on wear time, unplanned changes of pouching systems and use of accessories. The product evaluation consisted of two test periods of 2 weeks each. After the first screening period, study nurses evaluated whether the concave pouching system was suitable for the participants and, together with each participant, decided whether to proceed to the second evaluation period. Use of the concave pouching system did not significantly affect wear time but led to significantly fewer unplanned changes of pouching systems and less use of accessories, which may lead to cost savings for the healthcare system.
Elective placements
Authors: Wyatt Dan
Published: December 2024

In his last Student Column of 2024, Dan Wyatt reflects on the vast options available for elective placements and shares his own choice as he organises his placement for his fourth and final year of his paramedicine degree
Leadership characteristics to reduce staff attrition and absence related to burnout
Authors: Paterson Scott
Published: December 2024

Burnout among the paramedic profession is an increasing problem and not enough is being done to improve the current climate. It is for this reason that paramedics should individually contribute to the reduction of this issue by developing their own leadership characteristics, such as emotional intelligence, social intelligence, and stress and conflict management. Evidence suggests that these qualities and behaviours reduce the possibility of being subject to burnout symptomology. Implementing positive stress and conflict-management strategies will create a healthcare environment, which will be more enjoyable to work in. Emotional and social intelligence increase the resilience of prehospital clinicians who are subject to occupational challenges on a daily basis. Wider influences such as ambulance trusts, health services and governing bodies have implemented strategies to tackle this issue but clinicians can lead the change from the front line.
Water gradient technology – applied science and future applications
Authors: Guillon Michel , Bauman Erich
Published: December 2024

In the first of two articles looking at the performance of the contact lens material delefilcon A, Professor Michel Guillon and Dr Erich Baumann focus on the published literature relating to in vitro studies
Learning lessons of lockdown
Authors: Hale Mike
Published: December 2024

Mike Hale catches up with leadership team at Hoya UK to find out about the company's new partnership programme for independent practices and launching a game changing product during a pandemic
Joint effort on going green
Authors: Patchett Lucy
Published: December 2024

Lucy Patchett looks at a new cross-sector initiative to improve sustainability in optics
Myopia measurements made easy
Authors: Bzovey Brandon , Jones Debbie
Published: December 2024

Brandon Bzovey and Debbie Jones take a look at the Oculus Myopia Master, a single unit boasting a battery of functions essential for any practice offering myopia management
Low vision practice VRICS
Authors: Harvey Bill
Published: December 2024

Bill Harvey discusses the answers to the low vision VRICS exercise published at the start of this year (C100931)
CPD: Rest your cases
Authors: Harvey Bill
Published: December 2024

Bill Harvey offers an update on the new case study CPD option available to subscribers to Optician
Low awareness rates hinder advances in research
Authors: McClean Andrew
Published: December 2024

Andrew McClean explores how the development of treatments has been affected by the pandemic
Managing workplace pregnancy
Authors: Chander Tina
Published: December 2024

Tina Chander looks into the legislation, duties and protections around employee pregnancy
Giving you 100%
Authors: Garnett Nathan
Published: December 2024

Optician takes a look at what will be showcased at 100% Optical when it returns to ExCeL London on January 22-24
A walk in the Park
Authors: McClean Andrew
Published: December 2024

Andrew McClean speaks to Michelle Beach about Park Vision's triumph at the Optician Awards 2021
Legacy systems
Authors: Jones Simon
Published: December 2024

Simon Jones considers what might be some of the lasting legacies of the pandemic
Not a dry eye in the house
Authors: McClean Andrew
Published: December 2024

Andrew McClean speaks to dry eye exhibitors at 100% Optical
CPD: Mythbusters in myopia management
Authors: Bullimore Mark , Jasper April
Published: December 2024

Professor Mark Bullimore and Dr April Jasper take a look at seven myths commonly cited myths about myopia and its management and, by reference to the published evidence base, dispel each one. (C102407, suitable to log as one provider-led distance learning CPD point for optometrists and dispensing opticians)
Diary of a spectacle designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: December 2024

Tom Davies ponders the future of independents after Opti
Rising to lockdown challenge
Authors: White Emma
Published: December 2024

Japanese manufacturer Menicon won the Contact Lens Supplier of the Year category at the Optician Awards 2021. Emma White explores how the company navigated the pandemic, exceeded expectations and innovated new products
iDay unlocks dry eye potential in practice
Authors: Moss Robina
Published: December 2024

Attendees shared knowledge and insights on making dry eye a successful part of an optical business. Robina Moss reports
The power of two
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: December 2024

Adam Bernstein investigates how practice mergers and acquisitions can best be handled
How it works: Ocular axial length measurement
Authors: Clarkson Douglas
Published: December 2024

In a continuation of his series looking at the technology underlying ophthalmic equipment, Dr Douglas Clarkson discusses different approaches to measuring ocular axial length
A new vision for motorists
Authors: Blackmore Francesca
Published: December 2024

With her daughter behind the wheel for the first time, drivers' vision standards has come into sharp focus for Francesca Blackmore
Biometry and cycloplegic refraction
Authors: Tempany Keith , Grewal Indie
Published: December 2024

Indie Grewal and Keith Tempany look at both sides of the argument
CPD: TFOS nutrition
Authors: Tavakoli Azadeh , Farrant Sarah
Published: December 2024

Dr Azadeh Tavakoli and Sarah Farrant continue the TFOS summary series with an insight into nutrition and ocular surface health
Navigating the myopia journey
Authors: Morgan Sarah
Published: December 2024

Sarah Morgan maps the pathways for taking action against myopia under control as soon as possible
CPD: The impact of tinted lenses
Authors: Derbyshire Michelle
Published: December 2024

Michelle Derbyshire explores tints and filter lenses and looks at the subjective benefits for patients with ocular pathology, challenging working environments and sports vision applications
Bringing it all together
Authors: Nagra Manbir
Published: December 2024

Dr Manbir Nagra talks to Optician Technology Award winner, Dr Tony Burke
Classical and Quantum Analysis of Light Polarization in Filter Systems
Authors: Assunção Davi Antonio , Soltau Samuel Bueno
Published: December 2024

We analyze the behavior of light as it passes through systems composed of polarizing filters at different angular orientations. The analysis is initially conducted in the context of classical optics, using Malus's Law to calculate the transmitted intensity for the cases of two perpendicular filters (0° and 90°) and three filters (0°, 45°, and 90°). We then apply quantum mechanics to describe the phenomenon using state notation and the probabilistic interpretation of the projection of the polarization states of photons.
Spinal Enchondromas in the Cervical Spine: Rarity, Recurrence and the Importance of Long-Term Surveillance
Authors:   Department of Spine Surgery, Zydus Hospitals and Healthcare Research Private Limited, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Patel Nevish , Macwan Anson Albert ,   Department of Spine Surgery, Zydus Hospitals and Healthcare Research Private Limited, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Modi Yashvi ,   Department of Spine Surgery, Zydus Hospitals and Healthcare Research Private Limited, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Modi Hitesh ,   Department of Spine Surgery, Zydus Hospitals and Healthcare Research Private Limited, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Chondromas are benign cartilaginous tumors classified into periosteal chondromas and enchondromas. While periosteal chondromas grow on the bone surface, enchondromas develop within the medullary cavity. Enchondromas constitute 4–8% of all bone tumors, with spinal enchondromas being exceptionally rare, particularly in the cervical region. Despite their benign nature, spinal enchondromas can cause significant clinical symptoms and have the potential for recurrence or malignant transformation.

Case Report: A 14-year-old female presented with a swelling on the posterior aspect of her neck, accompanied by dull, aching pain radiating into the right upper limb, and muscle weakness assessed at IV/V. Imaging studies, including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging, revealed a lobulated lesion in the right lamina of the C4 vertebra extending to C5, causing spinal cord and nerve root indentation. The patient underwent a C4-C5 laminectomy with complete tumor excision. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of enchondroma. Follow-up and Outcomes: At 6 months, the patient experienced complete resolution of pain and significant improvement in neurological symptoms. Follow-up CT scans at 3 years and at 10 years did not exhibit any recurrence, and the patient remained symptom-free throughout the follow-up period.

Conclusion: This case highlights the successful long-term outcome following the surgical resection of a cervical spine enchondroma, demonstrating that aggressive surgical intervention can lead to sustained symptom-free outcomes. The 10-year follow-up provides valuable insight into the long-term prognosis of cervical spine enchondromas, emphasizing the importance of early and complete surgical resection along with extended surveillance.

Keywords: Enchondroma of cervical spine, benign cartilaginous tumor, surgical resection, long-term outcome.
Fibroadipose Vascular Anomaly – A Distinct Entity and not just a Malformation!
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedic Oncology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India., Gundavda Manit K
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Fibroadipose vascular anomaly (FAVA) was described in 2014 as a distinct entity characterized by intramuscular replacement with fibro fatty tissue along with complex vascular malformation, phlebectesia, venous thrombosis and lymphatic involvement. Somatic mutations in the PIK3CA gene are detected in most lesions which diagnosed the FAVA in our report and occurrence of this mutation seems to be sporadic.

Case Report: Common presentation is a painful intramuscular swelling in young women – as was the presentation here in an 11 year girl with the swelling of the right thigh. Imaging features, phleboliths and long standing history of an intramuscular malformation in the young girl that was recalcitrant to treatment at previous attempts led us towards the suspicion of a fibro adipose vascular anomaly.

Conclusion: Surgery with en-bloc mass excision is recommended for good long term curative option for reducing pain and regaining movements. FAVA is a rare, but specific vascular anomaly that is often misdiagnosed with other intramuscular vascular malformations and therefore poses significant management challenges. It is imperative that clinicians have a thorough understanding of FAVA in order to provide proper diagnosis and treatment referrals.

Keywords: FAVA, vascular malformation, intramuscular, soft tissue tumor, genetic mutation