bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient ocular hypertension remodels astrocytes through S100B
Authors: Huang Weiran , Matsushita Kenji , Kawashima Rumi , Hara Susumu , Yasukura Yuichi , Yamaguchi Kaito , Usui Shinichi , Baba Koichi , Quantock Andrew J. , Nishida Kohji
Published: February 2025

Glaucoma is a series of irreversible and progressive optic nerve degenerations, often accompanied by astrocyte remodeling as the disease progresses, a process that is insufficiently understood. Here, we investigated the morphology of retinal and optic nerve head (ONH) astrocytes under mechanical stress, and explored whether a specific phase is present that precedes astrocyte remodeling. A mouse model of transient ocular hypertension (OHT) and an in vitro cell stretch model were established to mimic the pathological conditions of increased intraocular pressure and mechanical stress on cultured cells. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), S100B, and actin staining were used to characterize astrocyte morphology and cytoskeleton, with qPCR used to measure mRNA expression. We also silenced S100B expression and conduct RNA sequencing on ONH astrocytes. Astrocytes displayed weaker GFAP intensity (p < 0.0001) in the early-stage OHT mouse model, prior to the onset of hypertrophy, which was accompanied by an increase in GFAP mRNA expression (p < 0.0001) and a decrease in S100B mRNA expression (p < 0.001). In vitro-stretched astrocytes tended to contract and had fewer cellular processes and more elongated cell bodies. Downregulation of S100B expression occurred in in both the in vivo (p = 0.0001) and in vitro (p = 0.0023) models. S100B-silenced ONH astrocytes were similarly characterized by a slender morphology. In the RNA-seq analysis, genes downregulated by more than fivefold were predominantly enriched in terms related to nutrient metabolism, motor proteins and morphogenesis. Meanwhile, genes upregulated by more than fivefold were primarily associated with terms related to histone modification and visual perception. As an early response to mechanical stress, S100B expression is downregulated in astrocytes, which assume a slender morphology, reminiscent of cell “weakening.” Silencing intracellular S100B expression induced similar morphology changes and altered the transcriptome. Stress-induced changes were reversible, with evidence of enhanced late-stage reactivation that is likely related to S100B.
Use of screens, books and adults’ interactions on toddler’s language and motor skills: A cross-cultural study among 19 Latin American countries from different SES
Authors: Gago-Galvagno Lucas G. , Elgier Angel M. , Tabullo Angel J. , Huaire-Inacio Edson J. , Herrera-Alvarez Angela M. , Zambrano-Villalba Carmen , López Frania R. , Herrera-González Emmanuel , Morán-Núñez Olivia , Ochoa-Vega Neyra J. , Ferreira de Carvalho Chrissie , Spencer Rosario , Giraldo-Huertas Juan José , del Carpio Perla , Robles Erika , Fernández Carla , Requena Silvia , Rodríguez Pilar , Rondón Yoysy , Ruiz Alexis L. , Tibisay-Echenique Ada , Hidalgo Gris , Hernández Carlos R. , Lacayo Mirna , Angeriz Esther , Etchebehere Gabriela , Mena Fernando José , Magaña de Ávila Delia , Azzollini Susana C. , Miller Stephanie E.
Published: February 2025

Children’s screen use is ubiquitous, with toddlers in particular demonstrating increases after the pandemic and negative associations with cognitive abilities. Thus, the objective of this cross-cultural study was to broaden and deepen existing results by describing Latin American toddlers’ screen use and its association with parental reports of language skills, developmental milestones, and sociodemographic variables. A sample of 1878 toddlers from 12 to 48 months (M.age = 27.55, SD = 9.68, male = 933, low-SES = 945) from 19 different Latin American countries was evaluated. Parent-report measures of children’s use of screens, SES, language, and developmental milestones were administered virtually or face-to-face. Results indicated that infants’ screen exposure times were longer than recommended, with TV and smartphone being the most frequent screen media among them. Also, most of the screen time was shared with an adult. These results were consistent across parent-reported SES and nationality. In addition, negative and significant associations were generally found between screen time and language skills, which were in turn positively associated with shared reading times. The frequency of shared screen use with adults demonstrated positive correlations with language skills, after controlling for sociodemographic variables. Lastly, entertainment and educational content was associated with higher levels of language skills compared to music. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the importance of promoting responsible and accompanied use of screens with age-appropriate content during the first years of life across different contexts.
Federated learning based reference evapotranspiration estimation for distributed crop fields
Authors: Tausif Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Waseem , Bashir Rab Nawaz , AlGhofaily Bayan , Elyassih Alex , Khan Amjad Rehman
Published: February 2025

Water resource management and sustainable agriculture rely heavily on accurate Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo). Efforts have been made to simplify the (ETo) estimation using machine learning models. The existing approaches are limited to a single specific area. There is a need for ETo estimations of multiple locations with diverse weather conditions. The study intends to propose ETo estimation of multiple locations with distinct weather conditions using a federated learning approach. Traditional centralized approaches require aggregating all data in one place, which can be problematic due to privacy concerns and data transfer limitations. However, federated learning trains models locally and combines the knowledge, resulting in more generalized ETo estimates across different regions. The three geographical locations of Pakistan, each with diverse weather conditions, are selected to implement the proposed model using the weather data from 2012 to 2022 of the selected three locations. At each selected location, three machine learning models named Random Forest Regressor (RFR), Support Vector Regressor (SVR), and Decision Tree Regressor (DTR), are evaluated for local Evapotranspiration (ET) estimation and the federated global model. The feature importance-based analysis is also performed to assess the impacts of weather parameters on machine learning performance at each selected local location. The evaluation reveals that Random Forest Regressor (RFR) based federated learning outperformed other models with coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.97%, Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) = 0.44, Mean Absolute Error (MAE) = 0.33 mm day−1, and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) = 8.18%. The Random Forest Regressor (RFR) performance yields the local machine learning models against each selected site. The analysis results suggest that maximum temperature and wind speed are the most influential factors in Evapotranspiration (ET) predictions.
Multi-scale non-uniform hierarchical filtering model based on fractal theory
Authors: Zhang Jian , Peng Fei , He Chao
Published: February 2025

Gasoline particulate filters (GPF) are widely used due to their superior environmental benefits, but its trapping efficiency is affected by many factors. We established a multi-scale non-uniform hierarchical filtering model (MNHF) based on the fractal theory to accurately analyze the dynamic changes of trapping efficiency during GPF operation. The multi-scale characteristics of the filter wall about trap diameter and pore size are presented. Additionally, filter theory and Brownian kinematics are used to precisely predict particle motion. The study focuses on the dynamic change of trapping efficiency of MNHF in different particle size ranges. The results indicate the following: By comparing the numerical simulation results of the model with experimental data, the maximum relative error range is found to be within 0.7%. The MNHF model accurately predicts the change in trapping performance at different times when particles move in the trap. The trapping efficiency of the upper layer of the single-layer trap is higher than that of the lower layer based on the particles’ moving distance in unit time, and the trapping efficiency of the next layer is reduced by up to 29.34% compared to that of the upper layer. Additionally, it provides a more accurate simulation of the trapping efficiency for particles with sizes ranging from 0.01 μm to 0.5 μm under conditions of low wall flow velocity.
Trichostatin A suppresses hearing loss by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in an Alport syndrome model
Authors: Nam Yoon Seok , Gi Eun-Ji , Ko Yoo-Seung , Lee Sungsu , Cho Hyong-Ho
Published: February 2025

Alport syndrome (AS) is a genetic disorder marked by mutations in type IV collagen, leading to kidney glomerular dysfunction. AS also involves the cochlea, causing late-onset progressive hearing loss. Currently, there are no therapeutic drugs to protect hearing from AS. HDAC inhibitors (HDACis) are chemical compounds that block the activity of histone deacetylase and are known to exert diverse biologic effects. We investigated the effect of Trichostatin A (TSA), an HDACi, to assess its potential to inhibit hearing deterioration in AS. Col4a3 knockout (KO) mice were treated with TSA at 3 weeks of age, and hearing levels were measured using auditory brainstem response (ABR). The results demonstrate that TSA significantly protects the hearing of KO mice compared to the untreated group. The TSA-treated group exhibited a reduction in the levels of oxidative stress markers 4-Hydroxynonenal and 3-Nitrotyrosine, along with a decrease in inflammatory cytokines, in both the mouse cochlea and in vitro HEI-OC1 (House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1) cell and HEK (Human Embryonic Kidney)293T cells. AS demonstrated a thickening in the stria vascular vessels, a phenomenon that TSA attenuated. Col4α3 deficiency showed down-regulation of Hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1), a key anti-inflammatory molecule. TSA treatment induced HO-1 signaling, which contributed to the inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines. These findings suggest that TSA represents a promising candidate molecule for mitigating the progression of hearing loss in AS.
Research on desiliconization of brown corundum fly dust and bauxite based on roasting-alkali leaching method
Authors: Liu Nian , Chen Chaoyi , Li Junqi , Liang Dong
Published: February 2025

The raw material for smelting brown corundum is high-quality bauxite. As the quality of bauxite decreases, the main impurity, silicon content, increases, which affects the product quality and smelting energy consumption. Additionally, the smelting process produces a significant amount of brown corundum fly dust (BCFD) with a low utilization rate, resulting in resource wastage. In order to utilize low-quality bauxite and BCFD, this article proposes the method of “roasting-alkali leaching.” Through mixed desilication, the impact of alkali leaching factors on desilication is investigated, analyzed the desiliconization mechanism of BCFD, and established the kinetics of the desilication reaction. Results indicated that the optimal conditions for mixed desilication are BCFD/bauxite mass ratio of 1:6, desilication temperature of 95°C, desilication time of 30 min, alkali concentration of 110 g/L, and liquid-solid ratio of 10:1, achieving a desilication rate of 60.90%. The Al-Si ratio (A/S) of the concentrate increases from 5.33 to 11.72, meeting the requirements for brown corundum smelting raw materials. The desilication reaction follows a solid shrinkage core model, with a kinetic equation of 1−2/3α−(1−α)2/3 = 15.50exp[−29299/(RT)]·t, and an apparent activation energy of 29.30 kJ/mol. The synergistic mechanism involves fine particles of the BCFD adsorbing on the surface after mixing with the bauxite, increasing the mineral surface area and the activity of silicon, thereby accelerating the reaction rate.
Mapping the global election landscape on social media in 2024
Authors: Pecile Giulio , Di Marco Niccolò , Cinelli Matteo , Quattrociocchi Walter
Published: February 2025

In 2024, a significant portion of the global population will participate in elections, creating an opportunity to analyze how information spreads and how users behave on social media. This study examines the media landscape on Facebook by analyzing posts from political parties and major news outlets in Europe, Mexico, and India. By identifying key topics and measuring public engagement, we uncover patterns in political discourse. Using Principal Component Analysis, we explore how these topics are related and distinguish trends in audience interaction. Our findings show how certain topics resonate differently across political groups, providing insights into the relationship between media content, political ideology, and user engagement during elections.
Pre-injury frailty and clinical care trajectory of older adults with trauma injuries: A retrospective cohort analysis of A large level I US trauma center
Authors: Adeyemi Oluwaseun , Grudzen Corita , DiMaggio Charles , Wittman Ian , Velez-Rosborough Ana , Arcila-Mesa Mauricio , Cuthel Allison , Poracky Helen , Meyman Polina , Chodosh Joshua
Published: February 2025

Background

Pre-injury frailty among older adults with trauma injuries is a predictor of increased morbidity and mortality.

Objectives

We sought to determine the relationship between frailty status and the care trajectories of older adult patients who underwent frailty screening in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

Using a retrospective cohort design, we pooled trauma data from a single institutional trauma database from August 2020 to June 2023. We limited the data to adults 65 years and older, who had trauma injuries and frailty screening at ED presentation (N = 2,862). The predictor variable was frailty status, measured as either robust (score 0), pre-frail (score 1–2), or frail (score 3–5) using the FRAIL index. The outcome variables were measures of clinical care trajectory: trauma team activation, inpatient admission, ED discharge, length of hospital stay, in-hospital death, home discharge, and discharge to rehabilitation. We controlled for age, sex, race/ethnicity, health insurance type, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, injury type and severity, and Glasgow Coma Scale score. We performed multivariable logistic and quantile regressions to measure the influence of frailty on post-trauma care trajectories.

Results

The mean (SD) age of the study population was 80 (8.9) years, and the population was predominantly female (64%) and non-Hispanic White (60%). Compared to those classified as robust, those categorized as frail had 2.5 (95% CI: 1.86–3.23), 3.1 (95% CI: 2.28–4.12), and 0.3 (95% CI: 0.23–0.42) times the adjusted odds of trauma team activation, inpatient admission, and ED discharge, respectively. Also, those classified as frail had significantly longer lengths of hospital stay as well as 3.7 (1.07–12.62), 0.4 (0.28–0.47), and 2.2 (95% CI: 1.71–2.91) times the odds of in-hospital death, home discharge, and discharge to rehabilitation, respectively.

Conclusion

Pre-injury frailty is a predictor of clinical care trajectories for older adults with trauma injuries.
Investigating behavioural addictions in adults with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Findon James L. , Muck Annika , Tóthpál- Davison Beáta , Dommett Eleanor J.
Published: February 2025

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) confers greater risk of alcohol and substance use disorders, which may be linked to altered compulsivity and impulsivity within the condition. However, no study has investigated the link between these constructs and behavioural addictions in ADHD. The aim of this study was to investigate whether individuals with ADHD show increased impulsivity, compulsivity, and associated distress, as well as addictive behaviour for gambling, exercise, and internet use, and to assess the relationship between these factors. Adults with and without ADHD were recruited from across the UK and completed an online survey measuring impulsivity, compulsivity, gambling, internet use and exercise addiction. Three hundred and forty-six adults took part (Healthy control = 137, ADHD-medicated = 110, ADHD-unmedicated = 99). Those declaring a diagnosis of ADHD reported greater internet use problems and greater withdrawal from exercise. Medicated individuals also reported higher exercise continuance and were more likely be symptomatic for exercise dependency. Individuals identifying with ADHD had greater levels of impulsivity and compulsivity, with impulsivity correlated with all behavioural addictions, whilst compulsivity correlated only with exercise and internet use. Regression analyses indicated that the distress caused by impulsivity and compulsivity was associated with internet use. Although further research is needed, this study indicates that the greater risk of behavioural addictions found in those with ADHD may relate to impulsivity and compulsivity, and that this should be considered when managing ADHD.
Unveiling the hidden burden: Exploring the psychosocial impact of cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions and scars in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Merdekios Behailu , Shewangizaw Misgun , Sappo Abebayehu , Ewunetu Eshetu , van Griensven Johan , van geertruyden Jean-Pierre , Ceuterick Melissa , Bastiaens Hilde
Published: February 2025

Background

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) poses a major public health concern in Ethiopia, with lesions and scars commonly affecting exposed body parts, resulting in physical, social, and psychological consequences. This study aims to assess the psychosocial impacts of CL, shedding light on the experiences and perceptions of affected individuals, thus contributing to the knowledge on Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Ethiopia and informing public health interventions to address its psychosocial effects.

Methods

Using a descriptive phenomenological design, the study explored the lived experiences of individuals with Cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions and scars. Participants were purposively selected, and data was collected through open-ended in-depth interviews. The analysis combined inductive and deductive approaches through an iterative process, developing a coding framework with seven themes (lesion & CL scar each) and subthemes, resulting in giving important insights in the psychosocial impacts of CL. NVivo 12v supported the analysis process.

Result

The study unveiled negative views and misconceptions surrounding CL and its impact. Application of traditional herbal medicine for CL lesions often leads to pus formation and a foul odour, triggering negative attitudes from others, resulting in embarrassment, pain, and anxiety, leading to discomfort and isolation. The negative psychosocial attitudes associated with CL scars deeply impacted affected individuals, influencing their behaviour. This included isolation and absenteeism from school. CL scars served as unique identifiers, shaping the affected individuals’ identity and self-perception. The unreceptive environment affected the participant’s self-esteem and coping mechanisms. The negative impact of CL scars extended to role performance, marriage prospects, and overall happiness, particularly for females facing additional societal pressure and stigma.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for improved education and awareness about CL to reduce misconceptions and negative attitudes towards affected individuals. Additionally, more effective treatment options and integrated preventive ways should be explored to minimize the physical and psychological impact of CL on affected individuals.
Correlation between blood pressure control status and cognitive impairment in older adults: A national cross-sectional study
Authors: Yao Junxiu , Wang Shengshu , Li Meiling , Song Baomei , Lan Cong , Jia Jianjun , Yang Yongjian
Published: February 2025

Hypertension is closely related to cognitive impairment; however, the correlation between blood pressure control and cognitive impairment in the hypertensive population is unclear. We aimed to explore the relationship between blood pressure control and cognitive impairment in older adults with hypertension. Using the cross-sectional data from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey, 5,860 people with self-reported history of hypertension were divided into the hypotension, intermediate blood pressure, and hypertension groups. Cognitive impairment was defined as a score of < 18 on the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination. Demographics of the population were also collected. Bivariate Logistic regression analysis and restricted cubic spline (RCS) model were used to analyze the relationship between blood pressure control and cognitive impairment. After adjusting for confounding factors, binary logistic regression analysis showed that the intermediate group was significantly associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment than the hypotension group, whereas the hypertension group was significantly correlated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment. No significant correlation was found between blood pressure control and cognitive impairment in patients aged <80 years, with hearing impairment, or with cerebrovascular diseases, whether in the hypotension or hypertension groups. There was a significant correlation between hypotension and cognitive impairment, and no correlation between hypertension and cognitive impairment in people aged ≥ 80 years, Han ethnicity and those who used antihypertensive drugs. Furthermore, RCS model analysis showed that there was a non-linear relationship between systolic blood pressure and cognitive impairment in individuals aged ≥ 80 years and those using antihypertensive drugs. There was a linear relationship between diastolic blood pressure and cognitive impairment. Blood pressure control in the hypertensive group was significantly associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment.
Potential improvement in spatial accessibility of methadone treatment with integration into other outpatient substance use disorder treatment programs, New York City, 2024
Authors: Bachhuber Marcus A. , Cunningham Chinazo O. , Jordan Ashly E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Methadone is an effective treatment for opioid use disorder; however, its provision in the US is limited to federally-regulated opioid treatment programs (OTP). Expansion of methadone treatment into non-OTP substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs (‘expanded methadone treatment access’) is a promising intervention to increase access.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional geospatial analysis of public transit times to OTPs, expanded methadone treatment access, and other healthcare facilities as of March, 2024 in New York City (NYC). We estimated one-way public transit travel time and compared travel times using population weighted paired t-tests.

Results

For OTPs, 38.2% (95% CI: 38.0, 38.4) of the NYC population was within 15 minutes and 79.7% (95% CI: 79.5, 79.9) was within 30 minutes. For expanded methadone treatment access, 72.1% (95% CI: 71.9, 72.2) of the NYC population was within 15 minutes and 97.5% (95% CI: 97.5, 97.6) was within 30 minutes. The mean travel time was 20.4 minutes (SD: 10.9) for OTPs and 12.1 minutes (SD: 7.1) for expanded methadone treatment access (difference: -8.3 minutes [95% CI: -8.5, -8.1]; P < 0.001). The mean travel time for expanded methadone treatment access was slightly longer than the mean travel time for dialysis facilities (difference: 0.22 minutes [95% CI: 0.06, 0.39]; P = 0.009]), not significantly different than Federally Qualified Health Centers (difference: -0.06 minutes [95% CI: -0.22, 0.11]; P = 0.51), and significantly shorter than the mean travel time to ambulatory surgical centers (difference: -6.3 [95% CI: -6.5, -6.0]; P < 0.001) and hospitals (difference: -8.1 [95% CI: -8.3, -7.9]; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Efforts to increase access to methadone treatment in the US should promote expansion to additional non-OTP outpatient SUD treatment programs. Such integration is anticipated to increase spatial accessibility of methadone treatment substantially, greatly enhancing the potential for patient access.
Effectiveness of a Social Cognitive Theory-based health education intervention on depression (SCODESS) among mothers of children with cancer in Klang Valley, Selangor, Malaysia—A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Wan Ghazali Wan Syahirah , Minhat Halimatus Sakdiah , Mohd Sidik Sherina , Mohd Nazan Iqmer Nashriq
Published: February 2025

Background

Mothers caring for children with cancer often experience depression, affecting maternal and family well-being. Prior studies suggest that theory-based health education can significantly reduce this depression.

Objectives

This study aimed to develop, validate, implement, and evaluate the effects of a Social Cognitive Theory (SCT)-based health education intervention on depression (SCODESS), as well as cancer-related knowledge, self-efficacy, perceived stress, coping skills, and social support among mothers of children with cancer at University Hospitals in Klang Valley.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was conducted with mothers from two University Hospitals in Klang Valley, Selangor. The intervention group is Hospital Pakar Kanak-Kanak Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (HPKK UKM) and the control group is the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC). A total of 95 participants were included (50 intervention, 45 control). The intervention comprised online health education videos delivered over one week, and the control group received a poster. Data were collected at baseline (T1), immediately post-intervention (T2), and at two months post-intervention (T3). The effects of SCODESS intervention were analysed using Generalised Estimating Equation (GEE) analysis.

Results

The baseline response rate was 60.53% with a 2.17% loss to follow-up at T2 and 7.60% at T3. The GEE analysis showed no significant effects of SCODESS intervention on depression scores at T2 (p = 0.909) and T3 (p = 0.622) compared to the control group at baseline. However, statistically significant increases were observed in cancer-related knowledge scores at T2 (β = 0.66, 95%CI: 0.21, 9.20, p = 0.002) and T3 (β = 1.18, 95%CI: 0.65, 1.70, p<0.001), and in the problem-focused coping scores at T2 (β = 2.50, 95% CI 0.42, 4.58, p-value = 0.018), and T3 (β = 2.42, 95% CI 0.13, 4.72, p-value = 0.038) in the intervention group compared to the control group at baseline. No significant intervention effects were observed on other outcomes.

Discussion

This study validated the applicability of SCT-based intervention on depression scores among mothers of children with cancer. The SCODESS intervention did not significantly reduce depression scores but significantly increased cancer-related knowledge and problem-focused coping scores. As a potential preventive strategy for depression, the content of the SCODESS intervention should be revisited, emphasizing cancer-related knowledge and problem-focused coping as crucial components. It is recommended that tailored interventions focusing on these areas be offered to every mother of children with cancer, whether they are in the ward, clinic, or daycare.
Statistical and machine learning based platform-independent key genes identification for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hasan Md. Al Mehedi , Maniruzzaman Md. , Huang Jie , Shin Jungpil
Published: February 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent and deadly form of liver cancer, and its mortality rate is gradually increasing worldwide. Existing studies used genetic datasets, taken from various platforms, but focused only on common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) across platforms. Consequently, these studies may missed some important genes in the investigation of HCC. To solve these problems, we have taken datasets from multiple platforms and designed a statistical and machine learning-based system to determine platform-independent key genes (KGs) for HCC patients. DEGs were determined from each dataset using limma. Individual combined DEGs (icDEGs) were identified from each platform and then determined grand combined DEGs (gcDEGs) from icDEGs of all platforms. Differentially expressed discriminative genes (DEDGs) was determined based on the classification accuracy using Support vector machine. We constructed PPI network on DEDGs and identified hub genes using MCC. This study determined the optimal modules using the MCODE scores of the PPI network and selected their gene combinations. We combined all genes, obtained from previous studies to form metadata, known as meta-hub genes. Finally, six KGs (CDC20, TOP2A, CENPF, DLGAP5, UBE2C, and RACGAP1) were selected by intersecting the overlapping hub genes, meta-hub genes, and hub module genes. The discriminative power of six KGs and their prognostic potentiality were evaluated using AUC and survival analysis.
Experiences of self-gifting luxury fashion during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Alloub Samiha , Çili Soljana
Published: February 2025

Consumer behaviour is known to change during trying times as consumption has implications for the self. In fact, the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic saw a rise in self-gifting. Adopting a psychological lens, this novel study explored females’ experiences of self-gifting luxury fashion during the pandemic. Given the under-researched area, an exploratory qualitative approach was adopted and interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to understand participants’ experiences. A homogenous sample of four females were interviewed using semi-structured interviews to elicit rich data. Findings demonstrated that self-gifting of luxury fashion during the pandemic was a complex phenomenon that seemed to contribute to participants’ psychological well-being. The discussion links and extends the literature on self-gifting, luxury consumer behaviour and consumption during trying times. It highlights implications for academic research, individuals, brands and retailers.
Analysis and optimization strategies for key factors in children’s clothing design
Authors: Lü Hsiu-Ching , Huang Jiann-Wen
Published: February 2025

This study delves into the critical factors influencing children’s clothing design through a multifaceted approach. The investigation elucidates the most significant design elements by employing qualitative research methods, the fuzzy Delphi method (FDM), and the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP). Initially, semi-structured interviews were conducted with experienced professionals, encompassing children’s clothing designers and related specialists with a minimum of fifteen years of expertise. These interviews served to gather valuable insights and experiences. Subsequently, the FDM was utilized to assess the relative importance of identified design elements. Finally, the FAHP was implemented to determine the weights assigned to each factor, establishing a hierarchy of importance. The findings reveal that safety reigns supreme as the most critical design consideration. Following safety are comfort, style elements and practicality. Safety prioritizes the utilization of non-toxic materials and secure fastenings. Comfort emphasizes breathable fabrics and textures that are gentle against the skin. Style elements encompass colour palettes, patterns and the incorporation of creative design aspects. Practical considerations delve into age-appropriateness, freedom of movement, garments with multifunctional purposes and enduring durability. This comprehensive study offers invaluable guidance for the field of children’s clothing design. It empowers designers to effectively address the needs of children while aligning with parental expectations. Ultimately, this approach propels market development and fosters children’s enhanced quality of life.
Un análisis crítico del sistema alimentario de Guédé Village (Senegal) desde el enfoque de la soberanía alimentaria
Authors: Caballero Miras Irene
Published: February 2025

La historia de Senegal está marcada por la colonización, la trata transatlántica de esclavos y unos proyectos de “desarrollo” basados en los intereses estratégicos de los donantes y las Instituciones Financieras Internacionales. La globalización ha expandido un sistema económico de crecimiento ilimitado donde los alimentos son mercancías, que aumenta las desigualdades y hace colapsar a los ecosistemas y la vida. Esto ha generado unas políticas agrícolas viciadas, de comercio injusto y desarrollo insostenible, cuyo resultado ha sido un sistema alimentario global que sufre un malestar crónico. Las familias campesinas de Senegal resisten y mantienen, en la medida de lo posible, vivas sus costumbres, destacando la labor de las mujeres rurales, que alimentan a los pueblos meta del proyecto analizado, y realizan el trabajo doméstico y los cuidados que permiten la vida. En esta dirección, el proyecto de cooperación descentralizada de CERAI y ENDA-Pronat facilita terrenos cultivables con sistema de irrigación a las mujeres beneficiarias del mismo, aprovechando su cercanía al río Senegal, y las capacita en técnicas agroecológicas adaptadas a la realidad de la zona, teniendo en consideración los límites biofísicos de la Tierra, teniendo un impacto y diagnóstico limitados, ya que utilizan indicadores nutricionales generales alejados de las realidades locales.
Guruló változás
Authors: Kapus Erika
Published: February 2025

A kószálás, mint kulturális toposz a 19. század közepén született, a városi modernitás kontextusában. Baudelaire flâneur-figuráját Walter Benjamin emelte ki eredeti narratívájából, és tette a modernitás egyik kulcsfigurájává. Írásaik nyomán jelentős irodalom jött létre a flâneur alakját elemezve, s gendertudományos szempontok mentén egyre több figyelmet kapott a flâneuse is. A kószáló kritikus megfigyelő a városban, s nem mellékesen modern városi fogyasztó is. E toposz alapján jött létre a ‘velo flâneur’ vagy ‘cycleur’, aki már a 19-20. század fordulóján kétkeréken járta a várost, és azóta is fontos alakítója a városképnek. A kerékpáros ember és gép összeépítése: az organikus motor mechanikus szerkezetet hajt. A kerékpáros megváltoztatja a város életterét, sebességét, hatással van nemcsak a közlekedés infrastruktúrájának kiépülésére, szabályozására, a forgalom megszervezésére, de a ruhadivat alakulására, a nemek közti egyenlőség kérdésére, sőt, a városlakó identitásának alakítására is. A kerékpáros a változás előmozdítója, mozgásban van és mozgatja maga körül a várost. A városi kerékpáros státusza hasonlít más kisebbségi csoportokéhoz: gyakran alacsony presztízzsel bír, a rendszert, melynek fokozatosan ágens részévé válik nem az ő nézőpontjából alkották, így számára a kialakított rend némiképp idegen, s ő folytonos transzgresszióra kényszerül. Tanulmányomban elsősorban századfordulón született magyar szépirodalmi szövegek és publicisztika alapján vizsgálom, hogyan alakul (ki) a városi kerékpáros, mint kószáló identitásképe, milyen attribútumokkal ruházzák fel, mi jellemzi a róla való beszédmódot, s hogyan viszonyul mindez napjaink kerékpáros-képéhez, mit alakított át és hogyan a kerékpáros kószáló megjelenése, milyen gender vonatkozásai vannak fejlődéstörténetének.
PREVALENCE AND PATTERNS OF OPIOID USE IN CHRONIC PANCREATITIS
Authors: Phillips Anna Evans , Conwell Darwin L. , Li Shuang , Saloman Jami L. , Hart Phil A. , Fogel Evan L. , Vege Santhi Swaroop , Andersen Dana K. , Fisher William E. , Forsmark Christopher E. , Pandol Stephen , Park Walter G. , Topazian Mark D. , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Serrano Jose , Li Liang , Yadav Dhiraj ,   On behalf of the Consortium for the Study of Chronic Pancreatitis, Diabetes, and Pancreatic Cancer (CPDPC)
Published: February 2025

Background:

Opioids are used to treat pain in chronic pancreatitis (CP), but little is known about current use patterns. The aims of this study were to characterize the utilization of opioids, and associations with clinical characteristics in adult patients with CP.

Methods:

This cross-sectional analysis utilized baseline data from participants with definite CP enrolled in a cohort study in the US (PROCEED). Data on demographics, pain medication use, health care utilization, disability, and pain patterns were systematically collected in case report forms while quality of life (QOL) was assessed with patient-reported outcome instruments. Opioid use was classified according to strength (weak or strong) and frequency (scheduled or as-needed).

Results:

A total of 681 participants (n=364, 53% male) were included: 299 (44%) were current opioid users (22% only weak opioids and 22% at least one strong opioid). Increasing frequency and severity of pain was associated with increase of weak, strong, as-needed, or scheduled opioids. Neuromodulators were used by ∼40% of participants; increasing use was associated with increasing frequency and severity of pain. On multivariate analysis, independent predictors associated with strength and frequency of current opioid use were pain patterns (ORs 1.84-8.32 and ORs 1.92-8.52, respectively, p<0.001) and prior celiac plexus block (OR 3.54, 95% CI 1.82-6.87) and (OR 3.42, 95% CI 1.76-6.64), respectively. Participants using opioids had higher prevalence of disability, healthcare utilization and poorer QOL.

Conclusions:

Opioid use in CP is common and associated with increased pain severity and constancy. These data provide foundational estimates for future trials that can elucidate the complex interactions between patient factors, pain, and interventions.
Challenges in data collection for enhancing productivity in Brazilian industrial processes
Authors: Hasegawa Haroldo Lhou , Lima Rafael Sene de , Mota Junior Vidal Dias da , Teixeira Ricardo Luiz Perez
Published: February 2025

Goal: To understand the underlying reasons for low productivity in medium-sized metalworking companies and to evaluate the effectiveness of the productivity improvement techniques that have been implemented.
Design / Methodology / Approach: The research adopted an exploratory design, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. This included content analysis and semi-structured interviews with company managers. Twelve medium-sized enterprises in the metalworking sector were selected, and data were collected from thesis projects conducted between 2017 and 2019. The interviews were conducted via phone or video conferencing with managers in 2023.
Results: The findings indicate that productivity improvement techniques, including Lean Six Sigma, PDCA, and Value Stream Mapping, were partially implemented in some companies but were abandoned in others due to the pandemic and internal cultural barriers. Only a minority of companies succeeded in sustaining their productivity programs.
Limitations of the Investigation: The primary limitations include the reluctance of companies to provide detailed data, challenges in maintaining improvement programs due to the pandemic, and restricted access to internal information owing to industrial confidentiality.
Practical Implications: This study underscores the necessity for enhanced methodological strategies to foster company collaboration and robust data collection in productivity research, offering insights into the challenges faced by medium-sized companies in Brazil.
Originality / Value: This research provides a unique comparison of productivity challenges encountered by medium-sized Brazilian companies in the metalworking sector, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, thus contributing to the discourse on industrial competitiveness and productivity enhancement in developing economies.
Integration of a “cardiovascular system” curriculum into an eight-year medical education program: exploration and the experience in China
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zheng Xinglong , Li Dongmin , Meng Liesu , Wang Yuan , He Xi , Liu Jinjun
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The traditional, subject-based medical teaching mode has gradually transitioned to a system-based integration mode. This study aims to provide the experience of design and implementation of a pilot program to integrate a “cardiovascular system” curriculum into an eight-year medical education in Xi’an Jiaotong University in China.

Methods

We launched a curriculum integration project that includes study of the cardiovascular system in the eight-year medical education course. Curriculum integration was carefully designed. An integrated curriculum team was formed and the integration objectives clearly defined. The content to be integrated was identified and various tasks were assigned. The perceptions of students and teachers were evaluated using a questionnaire survey.

Results

We first integrated pharmacology into the new curriculum. This progressed from physiology through pathology to pathophysiology, and finally, to the principal therapeutic drugs. The “cardiovascular system” curriculum was divided into six functional parts: morphological structure; cardiac electrophysiology and relevant drugs; coronary circulation and relevant drugs; cardiovascular function, diseases, and relevant drugs; heart failure and therapeutic drugs; and other cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusions

An integrated curriculum centered on organ systems has been successfully established using the cardiovascular system as a pilot. Both students and teachers perceived that all cardiovascular system blocks were well-integrated.
A comprehensive assessment on recent advancements in spent fuel reprocessing and waste management: pioneering technologies for a sustainable nuclear future
Authors: Sakthimurugan Veeraraghavan , Yuvarajan Devarajan
Published: February 2025

This work analyzes advancements in nuclear energy, focusing on spent fuel reprocessing and waste disposal. Key technologies such as pyroprocessing, aqueous reprocessing, and the DUPIC (Direct Use of Spent PWR Fuel in CANDU) process are examined for their effectiveness in reducing environmental and safety risks. Pyroprocessing is highlighted for its ability to enhance actinide recovery and reduce waste volume, while the PUREX process demonstrates high recovery efficiencies for uranium and plutonium. The integration of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and chemical kinetics modeling optimizes process parameters, improving reprocessing outcomes. The DUPIC method shows potential in improving reactor performance and minimizing waste. Long-term waste management strategies, such as dry cask storage and geological disposal, are also explored, with advancements in safety and heat dissipation technologies. Innovations like autonomous passive cooling and antineutrino monitoring are promising for spent fuel management security. Additionally, the study highlights Generation IV reactors and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as critical to minimizing nuclear energy’s environmental impact. The work emphasizes continued progress in reprocessing and waste management to address technical, economic, and environmental challenges, ensuring the viability of nuclear energy.
Neurons of the central nucleus of the amygdala that express angiotensin type 2 receptors couple lowered blood pressure with anxiolysis in male mice.
Authors: Elsaafien Khalid , Kirchner Matthew K. , Scott Karen A. , Spector Eliot A. , Mowry Francesca E. , Sumners Colin , Stern Javier E. , de Kloet Annette D. , Krause Eric G.
Published: February 2025

Relief from psychological stress confers cardio-protection by altering brain activity and lowering blood pressure; however, the neuronal circuits orchestrating these effects are unknown. Here, we used male mice to discern neuronal circuits conferring stress relief and reduced blood pressure. We found that neurons residing in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) expressing angiotensin type 2 receptors (AT2R), deemed CeAAT2R, innervate brain nuclei regulating stress responding. In vivo optogenetic excitation of CeAAT2Rlowered blood pressure and this effect was abrogated by systemic hexamethonium or antagonism of GABA receptors within the CeA. Intriguingly, in vivo optogenetic excitation of CeAAT2Rwas also potently anxiolytic. Delivery of an AT2R agonist into the CeA recapitulated the hypotensive and anxiolytic effects, but ablating AT2R(s) from the CeA was anxiogenic. The results suggest that the excitation of CeAAT2Rcouples lowered blood pressure with anxiolysis. The implication is that therapeutics targeting CeAAT2Rmay provide stress relief and protection against cardiovascular disease.

Significance statementThere is increasing appreciation that brain-to-body communication promotes susceptibility or resiliency to cardiovascular disease. Here, we present preclinical research that discerns a neural circuit that orchestrates brain-to-body communication and provides relief from mental stress. We discover that neurons within the central nucleus of the amygdala that express angiotensin type 2 receptors (hereafter referred to as CeAAT2R) are potent mediators of blood pressure and anxiolysis. The implication is that CeAAT2Ror their angiotensin type 2 receptors can be targeted to protect against stress-induced cardiovascular disease.
The androgen receptor amino-terminal domain: structure, function and therapeutic potential
Authors: Hunter Irene , Jamieson Craig , McEwan Iain J
Published: February 2025

Signalling by the steroid hormone testosterone involves the androgen receptor (AR), a structurally dynamic protein. The amino-terminal domain of the AR makes up more than half of the protein and has been found to be intrinsically disordered. This structural plasticity mediates receptor-dependent transcription, intradomain interactions and allosteric regulation. AR activity is a primary drug target in advanced and metastatic prostate cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related death in men. Recent research has focused on the amino-terminal domain as a novel drug target. In this review, we discuss the structural properties of the receptor and highlight some promising preclinical and clinical studies that aim to develop a drug discovery pipeline of small-molecule inhibitors targeting the amino-terminal domain.
POLÍTICAS EDUCATIVAS EN MATERIA DE TIC Y RESULTADOS DE COMPRENSIÓN LECTORA EN PISA: UN ESTUDIO COMPARADO ENTRE CUATRO PAÍSES DE LA OCDE
Authors: Alonso-Sainz Enrique
Published: February 2025

Desde unos años atrás, las políticas educativas en materia tecnológica en todo el mundo se han ido sucediendo hasta alcanzar unos niveles de inmersión educativa digital como los actuales. Estas políticas no han afectado únicamente en el desarrollo de la competencia digital, sino que muchos de los procesos analógicos comunes también se han visto modificados por estos cambios en la didáctica, los materiales y el acceso a los recursos. Uno de estos campos en los que han incidido las pantallas ha sido la lectura. La aparición del libro electrónico, la escritura sobre teclado, la lectura de hipertextos, etc, han tornado la competencia lectora en algo mucho más complejo que abrir un simple libro físico y leer. Los datos en PISA sobre la competencia lectora no son, en muchas ocasiones, muy optimistas con este asunto; advirtiéndonos de la influencia que tienen la utilización de pantallas en el buen desarrollo de esta competencia.
En este texto, pretendemos realizar una aproximación, desde el estudio comparado, a la relación de las políticas educativas nacionales en materia de tecnologización y la influencia de estas en las puntuaciones en lectura a la luz de PISA en cuatro países de la OCDE: España, Italia, Lituania y Estonia.