bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking Resource Richness, Digital Economy, and Clean Energy to Ecological Footprint and Load Capacity Factor in Emerging Markets
Authors: Nathaniel Solomon Prince , Solomon Chikaodili Josephine , Khudoykulov Khurshid , Fakher Hossein Ali
Published: January 2025

The wave of digitalization has spread across all countries in the world, with lasting environmental consequences in the medium and long term. On the flip side, the environmental impact of resource richness, including its exploitation and consumption, has been an age‐long debate among policymakers, particularly in emerging markets. As such, this study examines the effect of natural resources (NR), digital economy, and clean energy consumption on the ecological footprint (EF) and load capacity factor (LCF) in emerging countries from 2000 to 2022. The current study enriches the literature by assessing the impact of different dimensions of the digital economy on both the demand side (EF) and supply side (LCF) of environmental quality. The results from the augment mean group estimator suggest that NR and economic growth increase the EF across all the models. However, all the indicators of the digital economy, except ICT goods exports, alleviate the EF. The same set of variables that reduce the EF also increase the LCF for the selected countries. Renewable energy consumption (REC) has heterogeneous effects on EF and LCF, suggesting that clean energy is not adequately consumed in emerging countries. In addition, the direction of causality flows from NR to EF. A bidirectional causality exists between REC and EF, economic growth and EF, NR and EF, and between REC and LCF. Based on the findings, it is recommended that emerging countries develop more digital technologies, intensify the process of digital promotion, and mobilize the benefits of energy transition for a clean and sustainable environment.
Factors influencing surimi gelling properties and natural additive–based gel fortification strategies: A review
Authors: Yang Ruizhi , Juma Nasra Seif , Zhao Yadong , Zheng Bin , Xu Yan , Gao Yuanpei , Jia Ru , Gao Pingping , He Yanhong
Published: January 2025

Gelation and gel properties are crucial to surimi‐based seafood products, and many factors significantly influence surimi gel quality. Although physical and chemical modifications can improve surimi gel performance, challenges such as high cost, difficulties in industrialization and environmental pollution pose significant barriers to their practicality. Natural additives offer a promising alternative by reinforcing and improving the characteristics of surimi gel through mechanisms such as protein conformational transformation, protein denaturation, and altered chemical forces. By incorporating different substances into surimi gel, it is possible to tune the interaction between the additives and the myofibrillar proteins, thus enhancing the gelation process and achieving the desired textural profiles. This review comprehensively explored the factors influencing the surimi gelation chemistry, with a focus on how the natural additives such as proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, salts, enzymes, and extracts impact the surimi gel properties. It elucidated the reinforcing mechanisms of these additives and proposed a general interaction model between natural substance and myofibrillar proteins. Furthermore, this review well established the interrelation between the performance and mechanism of enhancement effects of typical natural substances on surimi gels and provided new insights on tuning surimi gelation and gel properties by adding natural additives with specific physicochemical properties, thus facilitating the production of high‐quality surimi products with satisfactory gel characteristics in food industry.
Long‐range trajectory reconstructions using the point mass model
Authors: Riva Fabiano , Broekhuis Frederick Richard , Haag Michael , Koene Lambertus , Kerkhoff Wim
Published: January 2025

In shooting incident reconstructions, forensic examiners usually deal with scenes involving short‐range trajectories, typically ≤30 m. In situations such as this, a linear trajectory reconstruction model is appropriate. However, a forensic expert can also be asked to estimate a shooter's position by reconstructing a long‐range trajectory where the bullet's path becomes arced as a result of gravity and the greater time in flight. In this study, the point mass model (PMM) was used, because it is accessible and considered sufficiently accurate. A computer program using PMM can perform long‐range trajectory reconstructions starting from an impact point. The reconstruction results in an area where the shot is expected to be fired from, not a single location. This is caused by varying the input parameters of the PMM. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of the method and discuss the influence of the most relevant parameters. The model has been validated by comparing its performance with 20 handgun bullet trajectories that were determined using Doppler radar measurements over long ranges, i.e. from 500 m to 1800 m. Comparison between the area calculated using the model and the actual shooter position demonstrates the limits of these reconstructions, particularly at high incident angles. The differences between the reconstructed deflections and the deflections measured by the tracking radar are rather large. This phenomenon is caused by either measurement errors in the cross wind as a function of height or inaccuracy of the radar's deflection measurements.
Exploring the conceptual history of validity in nursing diagnoses: A Koselleckian perspective
Authors: de Oliveira Lopes Marcos Venicios , da Silva Viviane Martins
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This purpose of this article was to use the method of conceptual history to analyze the evolution of the concept of “validity” in nursing diagnoses and to identify key transformations, theoretical influences, and implications for contemporary clinical judgment and decision‐making.

Methods

Five stages derivate from the approach proposed by Reinhart Koselleck, including: identify the concept and its relevance, historical contextualization, contextual use, semantic changes over time, and synthesis and interpretation.

Findings

The concept of “validity” in nursing diagnoses is essential for accurate diagnostics, interdisciplinary communication, and evidence‐based decision‐making, though its interpretation varies due to differing philosophical perspectives and methodological challenges. Historically, “validity” in nursing evolved from empirical methods to theory‐driven approaches incorporating psychometric and clinical frameworks. Validation processes have adapted, integrating scientific rigor, ethical considerations, and practical utility, while also reflecting societal, technological, and cultural shifts. Today, the focus is on balancing methodological diversity and evidence‐based practice, with a need for continuous quality improvement, interdisciplinary collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and patient involvement.

Conclusions

The concept of “validity” in nursing diagnoses has evolved from early empirical methods to its current focus on evidence‐based practices, interdisciplinary integration, and cultural sensitivity, emphasizing the need for accurate, technologically informed diagnostics to enhance patient care and guide clinical decision‐making.

Implications for nursing practice

Nursing must integrate diverse perspectives, cultural sensitivity, and technology into its diagnoses, and professionals should be trained in both scientific and ethical aspects to improve patient outcomes.
Peri‐operative mental health interventions for surgical oncology patients: a narrative synthesis and meta‐analysis
Authors: Abraham Joanna , Holzer Katherine J. , Pedamallu Lavanya , Kozower Benjamin D. , Avidan Michael S. , Lenze Eric J.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Oncologic surgeries are common and rates of depression and anxiety are high in the peri‐operative period, potentially interfering with successful recovery.

Methods

We conducted a narrative review and meta‐analysis focusing on randomised controlled trials evaluating the effect of peri‐operative mental health interventions on anxiety and/or depression in adult patients having oncological surgery. The review included studies published in the last 5 years, identified through EMBASE with no pre‐specified criteria for the type of comparison or outcome. A meta‐analysis using a random effects model was performed for outcomes with sufficient data, and a vote‐counting synthesis was performed for studies with insufficient data or fewer than two studies per outcome.

Results

Seventeen randomised controlled trials were included. All were conducted internationally, primarily in Asia. Ten studies assessed psychological interventions (e.g. cognitive behavioural therapy), six assessed pharmacological interventions (e.g. ketamine) and one assessed acupuncture. Meta‐analysis revealed significant intervention effects on pre‐operative anxiety scores (n = 429, Hedge's g = ‐1.03, p = 0.001) and postoperative depression scores at hospital discharge (n = 188, Hedge's g = ‐0.88, p < 0.001), whereas no significant intervention effect was found in anxiety scores at discharge (n = 188, Hedge's g = ‐1.54, p = 0.08). Vote‐counting synthesis identified intervention effects on depression and anxiety scores on day 3 postoperatively and on depression scores at one‐week postoperatively, while all other time‐points showed no intervention effect.

Discussion

Psychological and pharmacological interventions are effective at reducing pre‐operative anxiety and immediate postoperative depression scores in patients having oncological surgery, but these benefits do not persist postoperatively. Hence, future research efforts should focus on development and testing of interventions that are effective and implementable within the peri‐operative context.
Anaesthetic management of oncological disease in pregnancy: a narrative review
Authors: Sharif Ben , Nana Melanie , Kearns Rachel , Lo Queenie , Metodiev Yavor
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Cancer complicates approximately 1 in 2000 pregnancies, with increasing incidence due to factors such as increased maternal age, obesity and advancements in antenatal testing. Anaesthetists play a crucial role in managing pregnant patients with cancer, both during delivery and in providing anaesthesia for oncological treatments. This review explores the challenges in anaesthetic management and specific considerations for common cancers encountered in pregnant patients.

Methods

An electronic literature search was carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify peer‐reviewed articles published in English from 1 January 1990 to 30 July 2024.

Results

Two main areas were identified: anaesthetic management related to pregnancy and the peripartum period in patients with cancer; and oncological management during pregnancy. Current data suggest that pregnancy does not worsen cancer prognosis, but diagnosis and treatment are complicated by the overlap of cancer symptoms with physiological changes of pregnancy and concerns about the safety of diagnostic procedures and treatments. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging are preferred imaging modalities, while careful use of ionising radiation is advised. Treatment during pregnancy, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy is possible, with specific timing and modality considerations to ensure maternal and fetal safety. Anaemia, poor nutrition and preterm birth are significant concerns in managing pregnant patients with cancer. For operative births, neuraxial techniques are preferred, though general anaesthesia may be required in complex cases. Comprehensive multidisciplinary support, including psychosocial care, is essential for optimal outcomes. Oncological surgery during pregnancy should preferably be scheduled for the second trimester, with consideration for fetal monitoring and steroids. Regional anaesthesia should be utilised if possible and uteroplacental perfusion maintained. Increased risks of thromboembolism should be addressed postoperatively, along with psychological support.

Discussion

Effective and safe anaesthetic management of cancer in pregnancy requires a multidisciplinary approach to balance maternal and fetal safety, with a focus on careful planning and individualised care.
Cardiotoxicity and peri‐operative considerations in immune checkpoint inhibitor and chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy: a narrative review
Authors: Malode Aishwarya , Makwana Bhargav , Patel Vahin , Khadke Sumanth , Parikh Aneri , Bagga Arindam , Dani Sourbha , Ganatra Sarju
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy. Despite their efficacy, these therapies can induce cardiotoxicity, presenting significant clinical challenges. Immune checkpoint inhibitors can cause myocarditis; pericarditis; arrhythmias; and myocardial infarction through immune‐mediated inflammation. Chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy may result in cardiovascular complications due to cytokine release syndrome, including myocardial dysfunction, endothelial damage and arrhythmias.

Methods

We used PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar to search for peer‐reviewed articles in September 2024 without setting any date limits. Our selection criteria encompassed studies focusing on cardiotoxicity related to immune checkpoint inhibitors or chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy, comprising original research, meta‐analyses, clinical trials and review articles. The findings were reported narratively.

Results

Early diagnosis of cardiotoxicity is critical but challenging due to non‐specific symptoms. Diagnostic tools include ECG; cardiac biomarkers; echocardiography; cardiac magnetic resonance imaging; and endomyocardial biopsy. However, no single tool is definitive. High‐dose corticosteroids are the first‐line treatment for immune checkpoint inhibitor‐induced myocarditis, with additional immunosuppressive therapies for refractory cases. Standard heart failure management protocols should be followed in cases of heart failure. Tocilizumab and corticosteroids are utilised for chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy‐induced cytokine release syndrome, alongside supportive care, including fluid resuscitation and vasopressors for severe cases.

Discussion

As the use of immunotherapy expands, understanding the mechanisms, risk factors and management strategies for cardiotoxicity is increasingly important. Collaborative efforts among oncologists, cardiologists and anaesthetists are essential to mitigate these risks, especially in peri‐operative settings. Ongoing research is vital to improve the safe and effective use of immunotherapeutic drugs while minimising cardiovascular adverse effects.
The evolution and key components of oncoanaesthesia: a narrative review*
Authors: Gupta Raghav , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Oncoanaesthesia is a specialised branch of anaesthesia dedicated to enhancing outcomes, prioritising patient safety and improving the overall care of patients with cancer during surgery. We outline the global epidemiology of cancer, emphasising the necessity for this subspecialty, and discuss the criteria supporting its establishment.

Methods

We performed searches of electronic databases to identify relevant peer‐reviewed publications. The search was designed to capture a wide range of study types, including randomised controlled trials; retrospective studies; meta‐analyses; and systematic reviews. The titles and abstracts were screened to identify publications relevant to oncoanaesthesia, cancer recurrence and return to intended therapy. The reference lists were manually reviewed to identify relevant papers for consideration.

Results

This review highlights the growth of oncoanaesthesia over the past decade. Research opportunities abound in areas such as: the impact of anaesthesia on cancer recurrence; the use of enhanced recovery after surgery programmes; patient blood management; peri‐operative nutrition; techniques for modulating peri‐operative inflammatory responses; and strategies to reduce the time to return to intended oncological treatment.

Discussion

By integrating various subspecialties within oncology centres, oncoanaesthesia ensures a thorough and holistic approach to both curative and palliative cancer care, ultimately improving patient outcomes and providing better support for families and caregivers throughout the peri‐operative period.
Association between peri‐operative red blood cell transfusion and cancer recurrence in patients undergoing major cancer surgery: an umbrella review*
Authors: Etheridge Joshua , Shah Panth , Stanworth Simon J. , Harrison Ewen , Gillies Michael , Walsh Timothy S. , Shah Akshay
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Peri‐operative allogeneic red blood cell transfusion is hypothesised to increase the risk of cancer recurrence following cancer surgery. However, previous data supporting this association are limited by residual confounding. We conducted an umbrella review (i.e. a systematic review of systematic reviews) to synthesise and evaluate the evidence between red blood cell transfusion and cancer recurrence.

Methods

We searched online databases for systematic reviews of red blood cell transfusion and cancer‐related outcomes. The AMSTAR 2 tool was used for quality assessment. The adequacy of confounding adjustment was judged according to a consensus‐derived framework.

Results

We included five relevant systematic views which included patient populations ranging from 2110 to 184,190. Two reviews reported cancer recurrence, and all reported an association with red blood cell transfusion. Three reviews reported positive associations between red blood cell transfusion and adverse outcomes including all‐cause mortality, recurrence‐free survival and cancer‐related mortality. According to AMSTAR 2, four reviews were rated as ‘critically low quality’ and one as ‘low quality’. There was variation in how systematic reviews assessed the risk of bias from confounding. Compared with our pre‐derived framework, we found a high likelihood of unmeasured confounding.

Discussion

Currently available evidence describes an association between peri‐operative red blood cell transfusion and cancer recurrence, but this is mostly of low to critically low quality, with minimal control for residual confounding. Further research, at low risk of bias, is required to provide definitive evidence and inform practice.
Optimisation of the patient having oncological surgical through prehabilitation: a narrative review
Authors: Moore John , Beaney Alec , Humphreys Liam , Merchant Zoe , Parmar Krishna Kholia , Levett Denny
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Prehabilitation aims to improve physiological reserve and psychological resilience, enabling patients to better tolerate the physiological stress of major surgery, thereby reducing the risk of complications and improving surgical outcomes. In this review, we provide an update of the development of prehabilitation in patients having cancer surgery.

Methods

We searched databases of peer‐reviewed research to identify appropriate papers. Keywords comprised ‘prehabilitation’, ‘cancer surgery’ and associated synonyms (prehab; pre‐operative rehabilitation; cancer). The results were combined with articles identified by reviewing the references of key papers and the use of the grey literature to develop our discussion.

Results

We detail the different elements of prehabilitation (exercise, nutrition, psychological support) relevant to patients with cancer undergoing surgery, focusing on the recent evidence base and ongoing challenges. Within this, we consider the role of behaviour change in enabling patients to undertake prehabilitation interventions and reflect on the different models of prehabilitation that have been utilised. Facilitators and barriers to implementation of prehabilitation are explored. Key findings include positioning prehabilitation as an integral part of the oncological surgical pathway which includes, but is discrete from, medical optimisation.

Discussion

Prehabilitation has the potential to improve surgical outcomes for patients undergoing cancer surgery. Further evidence is needed to understand how and what we provide to patients as optimal exercise, nutrition and psychological interventions as part of their surgical care, and how we improve long‐term lifestyle using behaviour change methodology. Digital technology offers the opportunity for scaling and greater personalisation of prehabilitation but needs to be deliberately fashioned to ensure equitable access.
Return to intended oncological therapy following advanced ovarian cancer surgery: a narrative review
Authors: Tse Ka Yu , Chu Mandy Man Yee , Chiu Jessie Wan Kam , Kwok Shuk Tak , Irwin Michael G. , Chan Aaron Hey Yin , Ho Polly , Cheng Calvin Pak Wing , Ngu Siew Fei , Chan Karen Kar Loen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Patients with advanced ovarian cancer often require radical cytoreductive surgery and chemotherapy, with or without targeted therapy. Return to intended oncological therapy after surgery is a crucial metric, as delay can worsen survival. The concept of return to intended oncological therapy is important because it highlights the need for not just successful surgical outcomes, but also the ability to continue with the comprehensive cancer treatment plan.

Methods

A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to identify relevant English language studies published from January 2010 to September 2024.

Results

Delayed return to intended oncological therapy after surgery was associated with poor survival outcomes in ovarian cancer. This narrative review investigates how pre‐operative counselling and education; optimisation of the patient's medical condition; meticulous surgical planning and execution; early recognition of complications; and comprehensive postoperative care influence return to intended therapy in gynaecological surgery. Effective multidisciplinary care involving anaesthetists; nurses; physiotherapists; dietitians; psychologists; and the patient's relatives or friends, can prevent complications and ensure timely return to intended oncological therapy.

Discussion

Awareness and management of factors affecting return to intended oncological therapy are essential for improving outcomes in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. We highlight the importance of multidisciplinary care (including enhanced recovery after surgery programmes) and the factors affecting these including age; nutrition; and occurrence of postoperative complications.
Prevalence and outcomes of patients taking oral corticosteroids for over 1 month undergoing major surgery in England 2010–2020
Authors: Harris Jessica , Russell Georgina , Reeves Barnaby , Gibbison Ben
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Approximately 1% of the UK population is prescribed oral corticosteroids at any one time. It is not known how many of these patients present for major surgery. We aimed to establish the prevalence, characteristics and outcomes of patients taking oral corticosteroids.

Methods

We identified patients aged > 18 y undergoing major surgery between 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2020 from Hospital Episode Statistics with linked Clinical Practice Research Datalink data and the Office for National Statistics Mortality register in England. Prescribing data were used to define three sets of patients: ‘low‐dose’ – taking ≤ 7.5 mg oral prednisolone equivalents per day for at least 28/91 days before surgery; ‘high‐dose’ – taking > 7.5 mg oral prednisolone equivalents per day for at least 28/ 91 days before surgery; and a ‘no‐steroids’ group. We used ≤ 7.5 mg of prednisolone equivalents per day as our threshold, as this would likely exclude almost all patients who were taking corticosteroids as replacement for absolute adrenal/pituitary deficiency.

Results

We identified 1,999,326 adult patients for inclusion in the dataset: 1,929,291 (96.5%) in the no‐steroids; 63,353 (3.2%) in the low‐dose group; and 6682 (0.3%) in the high‐dose group. Median (IQR [range]) duration of hospital stay increased with increasing dose of corticosteroid (no‐steroid 3 (0–14 [0–14,739]); low‐dose 5 (1–26 [1–8079]); and high‐dose 7 (2–28 [0–6956]) days). Mortality after the index surgery was 1.5%, 3.8% and 8.9% at 30 days and 5.5%, 11.6% and 39.9% at 1 year for no‐steroids, low‐dose and high‐dose groups, respectively.

Conclusion

Around 1 in 29 patients undergoing major surgery are taking oral corticosteroids for > 28 days in the 3 months before major surgery. Their outcomes are poor and warrant highlighting within care pathways to aid risk prediction and mitigation.
Navigating choices: understanding the decision‐making journey of patients with localised kidney cancer
Authors: Beyer Katharina , Venderbos Lionne D.F. , Roobol Monique J. , Giles Rachel H. , Verhagen Paul , Barod Ravi , Wintner Lisa M. , Jewett Michael A.S. , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Kinsella Netty
Published: January 2025

Objective

To explore patients’ experience of decision making regarding treatment of localised kidney cancer.

Methods

A total of 21 patients with localised kidney cancer, across three countries, participated in either four focus groups or seven semi‐structured interviews that lasted on average 2 h. Focus groups and interviews were all conducted in the participants' native language, recorded, transcribed and (if applicable) translated into English. Thematic analysis was used to develop a codebook and identify themes.

Results

All participants expressed a desire to be actively involved in the treatment decision‐making process. However, due to the emotional toll of the cancer journey, which often necessitates quick decisions, actively engaging in the decision‐making process was described as challenging. The study revealed 12 key themes. These themes included the impact of diagnostic paths, patient characteristics, patient empowerment, health literacy, source of support, fear of recurrence, trust in treatment and healthcare providers, shared decision making (SDM), professional interaction, personal belief system, and organisational and administrative issues.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the complexity of decision making, underscoring the desire for patient involvement, SDM, and clear communication. We reveal a significant gap between research recommendations and clinical practice, emphasising the need to translate research findings to clinical application to enhance patient‐centred care.
Multimodal Measurement of Pubertal Development: Stage, Timing, Tempo, and Hormones
Authors: Omary Adam , Curtis Mark , Cheng Theresa W. , Mair Patrick , Shirtcliff Elizabeth A. , Barch Deanna M. , Somerville Leah H.
Published: January 2025

Using data from the Human Connectome Project in Development (N = 1304; ages 5–21 years; 50% male; 59% White, 17% Hispanic, 13% Black, 9% Asian), multiple measures (self‐report, salivary hormones) and research designs (longitudinal, cross‐sectional) were used to characterize age‐related changes and sex differences in pubertal development. Both sexes exhibit a sigmoid trajectory of pubertal development; females show earlier pubertal timing and increased tempo ~9–13 years, while males show greater tempo ~14–18 years. All hormones increased with age, with sex differences in testosterone and DHEA levels and in testosterone rates of change. Higher testosterone and DHEA corresponded with earlier pubertal timing in both sexes. These findings characterize typical pubertal and hormonal development and inform best practices for handling puberty data.
Psychiatric Disorders and Associated Factors in Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation and Heart Transplant Candidates
Authors: Ceran Selvi , Emekli Esra , Aşut Gonca , Sezgin Atilla
Published: January 2025

Introduction

End‐stage heart failure (ESHF) remains a significant challenge despite optimal treatment, with heart transplantation (HTx) being the gold standard of care. Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices such as left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly used for temporary or permanent treatment. Psychiatric comorbidities are common in patients with ESHF and may affect treatment outcomes, but the relationship between sociodemographic, clinical, and psychiatric characteristics remains unclear.

Methods

A medical record based, descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted on 94 ESHF patients scheduled for HTx or LVAD therapy. Sociodemographic, clinical, and psychiatric data, including psychiatric diagnoses and systemic inflammatory markers, were collected from medical records. Univariate analyses compared patients with (PD) and without psychiatric disorders (No‐PD).

Results

Of the participants, 37% had active psychopathology, with major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) being prevalent. Approximately half of those diagnosed received their first psychiatric diagnosis at the time of assessment. Sociodemographic factors did not differ significantly between the PD and No‐PD groups. While no significant difference was observed in ejection fraction (%) and inflammatory markers such as C‐reactive protein (CRP), lymphocyte count was higher in the PD group.

Conclusions

Preoperative psychiatric assessment is crucial to identify psychiatric comorbidities in ESHF patients undergoing HTx or LVAD therapy. Despite limitations, this study sheds light on previously unexplored aspects, such as the relationship between ejection fraction and psychiatric comorbidities and the relationship between depressive symptoms and inflammatory markers obtained from complete blood count. Furthermore, the fact that almost half of the patients with psychiatric comorbidity were first diagnosed during the pre‐treatment psychiatric assessment underlines the importance of pre‐LVAD and pre‐HTX psychiatric evaluation.
Between Colonialism and Patriarchy: The Role of Agency Among Palestinian Women in the West Bank and East Jerusalem
Authors: Shehadeh Lana , Ayalan Samira
Published: January 2025

Departing from the literature examining female agency within the developing world, this paper analyzes the specific exercise of agency for women within a colonial context, more specifically, the Palestinian territories under Israeli occupation. In understanding this unique context, we observe the role of female agency not only within the traditional gender roles but also through the logic of opposition to colonial structures restricting their existence as natives on the land. Here, we assume that Palestinian women deal with the realities of colonialism and occupation before truly understanding their sense of agency within what is known to be a conservative, traditional Arab society. We observe Palestinian women's agency from two separate angles: (a) within the traditional Arab culture and (b) within the colonial structures of occupation. We interviewed 20 women from rural and urban West Bank and East Jerusalem towns to analyze these themes. These interviews illustrate the nature of the nonmonolithic Palestinian woman's experience and attempt to demonstrate that through the context within the Palestinian territories.
Pomalidomide, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone Versus Bortezomib and Dexamethasone in Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma: Final Survival and Subgroup Analyses From the OPTIMISMM Trial
Authors: Richardson Paul , Beksaç Meral , Oriol Albert , Lindsay Jindriska , Schjesvold Fredrik , Galli Monica , Yağcı Münci , Larocca Alessandra , Weisel Katja , Yu Xin , Donahue Cynthia , Acosta Jorge , Peluso Teresa , Dimopoulos Meletios
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In the OPTIMISMM trial, pomalidomide/bortezomib/dexamethasone (PVd) significantly prolonged median progression‐free survival (PFS) versus bortezomib/dexamethasone (Vd) in lenalidomide‐exposed relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). We report final overall survival (OS) and updated efficacy analyses.

Methods

Adults with RRMM who had 1–3 prior regimens, including lenalidomide (≥ 2 cycles), were assigned (1:1) to PVd or Vd. Primary endpoint: PFS. Prespecified secondary endpoint: OS. Prespecified exploratory endpoints: PFS2 and subgroup efficacy analyses.

Results

With an overall event rate of 70.0%, OS data were mature in the intent‐to‐treat population (N = 559). After median follow‐up of 64.5 months (data cutoff: May 13, 2022), median OS was 35.6 months with PVd versus 31.6 months with Vd (HR 0.94, 95% CI 0.77–1.15, p = 0.571); adjusting for subsequent therapies, OS improved with PVd versus Vd (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.619–0.931, p = 0.008). Median PFS2 was 22.1 versus 16.9 months, respectively (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64–0.94, nominal p = 0.008). Treatment‐emergent adverse events led to study drug discontinuation in 92 (33.1%) and 53 (19.6%) patients in PVd and Vd arm, respectively.

Conclusions

Findings showed a nonsignificant trend towards improved OS with PVd versus Vd. PFS2 favored PVd, supporting its use in RRMM.
Oscillatory Transcranial Electrical Stimulation and the Amplitude‐Modulated Frequency Dictate the Quantitative Features of Phosphenes
Authors: Hsu Che‐Yi , Liu Tzu‐Ling , Juan Chi‐Hung
Published: January 2025

Previous research demonstrated that transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can induce phosphene perception. However, tACS involves rhythmic changes in the electric field and alternating polarity (excitatory vs. inhibitory phases), leaving the precise mechanism behind phosphene perception unclear. To disentangle the effects of rhythmic changes from those of alternating polarity, this study employs oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation (otDCS), in which the current oscillation remains confined to either a positive or negative polarity, thereby eliminating the influence of polarity switching. We applied scalp electrical stimulations using both polarity‐switching (tACS) and non‐polarity‐switching (otDCS) methods, with anodal or cathodal polarities, targeting the occipital lobe. All stimulations were performed using sinusoidal or amplitude modulation (AM) waveforms at threshold or suprathreshold intensities. Our results show that tACS results in faster response times compared to cathodal otDCS, but not anodal otDCS, while anodal otDCS elicits greater brightness perception than both cathodal otDCS and tACS. Additionally, AM frequency induced a higher threshold than the sinusoidal frequency, and response times were slower in the AM condition across all positive, negative, and polarity‐switching stimulations. However, stimulation intensity in the anodal AM condition could influence speed ratings, unlike in cathodal or tACS conditions. Our findings reveal that both tACS and otDCS induce phosphenes, with significant differences between polarities and current oscillation types, indicating that both mechanisms are critical in phosphene induction. This study provides evidence linking phosphene occurrence to oscillatory current activity and highlights the robustness and impact of AM coding in visual perception.
Oxyglutamate Carrier Alleviates Cerebral Ischaemia–Reperfusion Injury by Regulating Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Liu Wenhao , Liu Xin , Liu Min , Zhao Rui , Zhao Zhiyuan , Xiao Jingrui , Wan Dongdong , Wan Qi , Xu Rui
Published: January 2025

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been reported to participate in the pathophysiological processes of cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury, which include reduced energy homeostasis, increased generation of oxidative stress species (ROS) and the release of apoptotic factors. Oxyglutamate carrier (OGC) is an important carrier protein on the inner mitochondrial membrane that can transport metabolites from the cytoplasm to the mitochondria. The role of OGC in cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury (I/R) remains unknown. In this study, we found that the expression of OGC was significantly upregulated after cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury. Inhibiting OGC with phenylsuccinic acid (PSA) increased neuronal death after oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) in vitro. Mechanistically, OGC was localized in mitochondria and could facilitate the transport of glutathione from the cytoplasm to the mitochondria to reduce ROS levels and increase ATP production after OGD/R. In addition, in vivo inhibition of OGC exacerbated brain infarction, and GSH supplementation alleviated brain infarction resulting from OGC inhibition. This study revealed the role of OGC in alleviating brain damage by regulating mitochondrial GSH transport to alleviate mitochondrial function after cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury, which may provide a target for alleviating ischaemic brain injury.
Beyond the Illusion of Controlled Environments: How to Embrace Ecological Pertinence in Research?
Authors: Vielle Cassandre
Published: January 2025

Through the lens of preclinical research on substance use disorders (SUD), I propose a reflection aimed at re‐evaluating animal models in neuroscience, with a focus on ecological relevance. While rodent models have provided valuable insights into the neurobiology of SUD, the field currently faces a validation crisis, with findings often failing to translate into effective human treatments. Originally designed to address the lack of reproducibility in animal studies, the current global gold standard of rigorous standardization has led to increasingly controlled environments. This growing disconnection between laboratory settings and real‐world scenarios exacerbates the validation crisis. Rodent models have also revealed various environmental influences on drug use and its neural mechanisms, highlighting parallels with human behaviour and underscoring the importance of ecological relevance in behavioural research. Drawing inspiration from inquiries in ethology and evolutionary biology, I advocate for incorporating greater environmental complexity into animal models. In line with this idea, the neuroethological approach involves studying spontaneous behaviours in seminatural habitats while utilizing advanced technologies to monitor neural activity. Although this framework offers new insights into human neuroscience, it does not adequately capture the complex human conditions that lead to neuropsychiatric diseases. Therefore, preclinical research should prioritize understanding the environmental factors that shape human behaviour and neural architecture, integrating these insights into animal models. By emphasizing ecological relevance, we can achieve deeper insights into neuropsychiatric disorders and develop more effective treatment strategies. This approach highlights significant benefits for both scientific inquiry and ethical considerations. The controlled environment is a chimera; it is time to rethink our models. Here, I have chosen the prism of preclinical research on SUD to present, in a nonexhaustive manner, advances enabled by the use of rodent models, the crises faced by animal experimentation, the reflections and responses provided by laboratories, to finally propose rethinking our models around questions of ecological relevance, in order to improve both ethics and scientific quality. Although my discussion is illustrated by the situation in preclinical research on SUD, the observation drawn from it and the proposals made can extend to many other domains and species.
Resource effects of COVID‐induced work‐from home: A qualitative study of parental and non‐parental white collar workers in Germany
Authors: Mahadevan Jasmin , Metzler Sven , Vögele Jule Amelie , Diehm Raphael
Published: January 2025

Germany is a corporate environment that is sceptical towards digitalization and work‐from‐home, and in which it is customary to separate professional and personal spheres of life. The COVID‐19 pandemic, and ensuing government‐mandated shutdowns, changed all that by inducing extensive work‐from‐home conditions for most of the white collared workforce. These conditions blurred professional and personal spheres of life, introduced additional care‐work burdens and changed individual's contextual resources. Assuming that individuals seek to protect and conserve resources (COR theory), also across work‐home domains (W‐HR theory), our qualitative, interview‐based study highlights the resource implications which COVID‐induced extensive work‐from‐home had on parental and non‐parental white‐collar workers in Germany. We identify seven main ways in which individuals coped with COVID‐induced work‐from‐home. We find that parental workers, in particular, female employees who aim at work‐life integration, not work‐life separation, coped with the situation the best. Out of this emerge implications for the management of the workplace of the future, in particular the need to acknowledge that integrating parental responsibilities and work demands may bring about work‐home enrichment, and the requirement to facilitate and support this enrichment.
Fluoxetine‐induced downregulation of circMap2k1 signaling cascade to improve neurological function after ischemic stroke
Authors: He Langtao , Zhang Hui , Deng Jian , He Yibo , Cai Zhili , He Yitao
Published: January 2025

Background

Ischemic stroke (IS) is known for its high incidence, disability, and mortality, and there is an urgent need to investigate the pathophysiological mechanisms and develop novel treatment strategies.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the mechanisms of the novel circMap2k1/miR‐135b‐5p/Pidd1 axis in the treatment of IS progression with fluoxetine.

Methods

The middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was done in adult male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats and followed by fluoxetine treatment and the injection of adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐sh‐ctr and AAV‐sh‐circMap2k1 into the bilateral hippocampal tissues of rats. Dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay was employed to confirm the binding between miR‐135b‐5p and Pidd1. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was performed to measure the concentrations of the inflammatory factors TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐1β in the plasma. The role of circMap2k1 in cells was tested by overexpression of circMap2k1. Cell viability was assessed using Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay, while apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry.

Results

Knockdown of circMap2k1 enhanced the therapeutic and protective effect of fluoxetine on IS injury in rats. Dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed the targeting of miR‐135b‐5p to Pidd1. Additionally, fluoxetine deactivated the adsorption of miR‐135b‐5p by downregulating circMap2k1, and miR‐135b‐5p further exerted its inhibitory effect on Pidd1 and finally attenuated the inflammatory response caused by microglial polarization after IS. Cell experiments revealed that overexpression of circMap2k1 repressed cell viability and promoted cell apoptosis.

Conclusions

Fluoxetine downregulated of circMap2k1 was associated ameliorate neurological injury and inflammatory responses induced by microglial polarization after IS. The manuscript is available as a preprint at this link: doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3209057/v1.
Local Effects of Education and Age Groups on Unemployment in Germany
Authors: Busch Fabian , Ochsen Carsten
Published: January 2025

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of how regional changes in the age and education distribution of the labour force affect local and neighbourhood unemployment rates. Based on theoretical considerations, we argue that differences in job search, separation, and commuting are key factors in group differences, and therefore, changes in relative group size affect the level of unemployment. The empirical analysis focuses on local labour markets in Germany, using a dynamic spatial panel data model. According to the estimates, an increasing proportion of young and/or low‐educated workers raises local unemployment, while larger proportions of older prime‐age and/or highly educated workers raise unemployment in neighbouring labour markets. As a result, the recent ageing and education developments in the German labour force have led to a 25% reduction in the unemployment rate.
Tumor‐infiltrating CD8+ T‐cell numbers and serum C‐reactive protein levels as a prognostic biomarker in hepatocellular carcinoma patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab
Authors: Kuwano Akifumi , Yada Masayoshi , Tanaka Kosuke , Takahira Junro , Suzuki Hideo , Ohishi Yoshihiro , Motomura Kenta
Published: January 2025

Aim

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab is an established first‐line treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous research identified CD8+ tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) as a potential biomarker for predicting patient response to this therapy. However, not all HCC patients with CD8+ TILs respond favorably to atezolizumab and bevacizumab. Moreover, elevated serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels have been associated with poor outcomes in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors across various cancer types. The aim of this study was to determine whether CD8+ TIL numbers combined with serum CRP levels could collectively predict the response to atezolizumab and bevacizumab better than CD8+ TIL numbers alone.

Methods

A total of 46 HCC patients who provided liver biopsy samples were included. CD8+ TIL numbers in liver tissue were measured using immunohistochemistry.

Results

A group of 13 patients (28.3%) with high CD8+ TIL numbers and low (≤0.54 mg/dl) serum CRP levels demonstrated the highest treatment response rate. Furthermore, this group had a significantly longer median overall survival and progression‐free survival than the remaining 33 patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that high CD8+ TIL numbers with low CRP levels (HR 0.264; p = 0.037) and Child–Pugh class A (HR 0.277; p = 0.009) were associated with improved overall survival.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the combination of CD8+ TIL numbers and serum CRP levels may serve as a useful biomarker for predicting the efficacy of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in HCC patients.
“They Don't Understand People With Learning Disabilities”: Exploring the Experiences of People With Intellectual Disabilities Undergoing Welfare Assessments
Authors: Ward Bethan , Weatherhead Ste , Greenhill Beth
Published: January 2025

Background

The Welfare Reform Act (2012) has been criticised for harming claimants, particularly through functional assessments. Although many people with intellectual disabilities in the UK receive welfare benefits, their experiences of undergoing functional assessments are under‐researched.

Method

Eight participants with intellectual disabilities were interviewed about experiences of welfare assessment. Transcripts were analysed qualitatively using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Analysis suggested five group experiential themes: ‘Living in fear: I was nervous and scared’; ‘The system is marginalising: Other people are better than me’; ‘Relationship with the assessor: His attitude fucking stunk’; ‘Others as a safe base: Someone there that you know, and you trust’; and ‘Responding with empowerment: That's where I really shined’.

Conclusions

People with intellectual disabilities experience functional assessments as scary and oppressive. Assessment reinforced the stigma associated with having an intellectual disability and, to a lesser extent, claiming benefits. Individual, structural and policy levels interventions are discussed.