bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of talc in the subduction interface: Mg isotopes demonstrate Mg loss over Si gain
Authors: Easthouse Griffin , Hoover William , Teng Fang-Zhen , Condit Cailey , Pike Courteney , Wang Ze-Zhou , Berg Anna , Wynn Peter , Woods Lauren , Poulaki Eirini
Published: February 2025

Talc-rich metasomatic rocks in subduction interface shear zones profoundly influence seismicity and arc magmatism, but their petrogenesis remains controversial. Magnesium isotope compositions of exhumed subduction interface rocks from the Catalina Schist (California, USA) record Mg exchange from ultramafic to crustal rocks. Preferential loss of isotopically light Mg from serpentinite produces isotopically heavy talc-rich metasomatic rocks. Addition of this isotopically light Mg to adjacent metasedimentary and metamafic rocks from the slab produces actinolite- and chlorite-rich metasomatic rocks, respectively, with convergent δ26Mg values relative to their protoliths. The addition of Ca to ultramafic- and metasedimentary-derived metasomatic rocks reflects a separate contribution from infiltrating metabasalt-derived fluids. Talc-rich rocks are formed by passive enrichment of Si in serpentinite during Mg loss to adjacent Mg sinks. These results and a global compilation of exhumed paleosubduction terranes suggest that talc is a common component of the subduction interface and often forms independent of Si metasomatism. Talc is likely prevalent along the interface from mantle wedge corner to subarc wherever ultramafic material is in contact with a Mg sink and where it could influence slow slip events, subduction interface rheology, and arc magmatism in modern subduction zones.
Impact of the restrictive technique on outcomes in Baerveldt-350 implant surgery
Authors: Segura-Duch Gloria , Oliver-Gutierrez David , Duch Susana , Schilt Mar , Arciniegas-Perasso Carlos
Published: February 2025

Background

Different aqueous restrictive manoeuvres in non-valved devices affect intraocular pressure (IOP) levels in the first postoperative month. This study compares tube ligature (TL) alone to TL plus rip cord stent (TLS) on the efficacy of the Baerveldt 350.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective consecutive case-series observational study to assess efficacy by measuring IOP, success rates and the reduction of antiglaucoma medication usage over 3 years.

Results

The study included 43 eyes in the TL group and 29 in the TLS group. Initial IOPs were 26.67 mm Hg for TL and 28.21 mm Hg for TLS. After 1 year, IOP decreased to 13.03 mm Hg and 12.11 mm Hg, respectively. Over 3 years, TLS consistently achieved greater reductions in IOP compared with TL, with significant differences of 3.56 mm Hg in the second year (p=0.01) and 3.34 mm Hg in the third year (p=0.01). Mean antiglaucoma medication use decreased from 3.03 (SD 1.29) to 0.72 (SD 0.47) over 3 years, representing a 76.24% reduction, with no differences between the TL and TLS groups. Failure rate at 1 year was significantly lower for TLS under the success criteria of IOP=(6–18) mm Hg (TL: 33.33%, TLS: 7.14%, p=0.02). Rates of transient hypotension and hypertensive phase were higher in the TL group: 93.02% vs 34.48% (p<0.001) and 58.14% vs 32.14% (χ²=4.59, p=0.03), respectively.

Conclusion

Adding the rip cord stent to the Baerveldt implant significantly enhances long-term IOP control and reduces failure rates compared with TL alone. The lower incidence of hypertensive phases could be due to sequential tube opening. Small sample size, lack of randomisation and follow-up discrepancies may introduce bias and limit statistical power, highlighting the need for further research to confirm these conclusions.
Mortality and cancer incidence in the UK glass reinforced plastics manufacturing industry: a cohort study
Authors: Mueller William , Darnton Lucy , Christensen Mette Wulf , Brooker Finlay , Kolstad Henrik A , McElvenny Damien Martin
Published: February 2025

Objectives

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, styrene is probably carcinogenic for lymphohaematopoietic neoplasms, with insufficient evidence for other cancer sites. We compared mortality and cancer incidence (for the first time) in a UK cohort occupationally exposed to high levels of styrene to that of the general population of England and Wales.

Methods

The follow-up for mortality ran from 1969 to 2022, while the follow-up for cancer incidence ran from 1971 to 2020. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) and standardised incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated for cancer and non-cancer outcomes. Additional analyses compared mortality and cancer incidence with respect to the median age at and time since first exposure.

Results

A total of 1319 males contributed 53 687 person-years of follow-up in the all-cause mortality analysis. Mortality analyses did not indicate any clear increased risks. There was an indication of higher mortality of cancers of the trachea, bronchus or lung (SMR=1.30 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.70)). Mortality from lymphatic and haematopoietic neoplasms was elevated in those first exposed younger than 25 years of age (SMR=2.20 (95% CI 1.12 to 3.92)). The SIR analysis suggested reduced cancer incidence for all malignant neoplasms combined (SIR=0.85 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.96)). The incidence of lymphatic and haematopoietic neoplasms, especially myeloid proliferations and neoplasms, was elevated in those first exposed before 25 years old.

Conclusions

This study provides some limited evidence in support of styrene being a cause of lymphohaematopoietic, particularly myeloid neoplasms and lung cancers. This cohort is contributing to an ongoing international study to help clarify these associations.
Single and double electron detachment absolute cross sections of H- and D- in collisions with diatomic and triatomic gases
Authors: Wang Siming , Cui Mingshuai , Du Yuquan , Su Xin , Yang Yifei , Zhang Xuemei
Published: February 2025

Collisional single electron detachment (SED) and electron detachment (DED) absolute cross sections of H- and D- with N2, O2, NO, N2O and CO2 are measured by using the Growth-rate method. The impact energy Energy used in the experiment ranges from 10keV to 30keV. Except N2, the SED cross sections colliding with gases do not vary much with the incident velocity of H- or D-. While The the DED cross sections incident on all of the five kinds of gases show a slowly increasing tendency with projectile’s velocity. In our previous work, the SED absolute cross sections of H- or D- colliding with SF6 and CF4 are proportional to the bond length in target molecule and the radius of the incident anionic projectile within the error range in present velocity region. However, such dependency is not observedrelation is not obtained for the SED cross sections of the gases with diatomic and triatomic linear molecules in this work. An analysis based on inelastic collision is used to understand the trends of SED and DED cross sections.
Bibliothèques multilingues des écrivains russes du XIX siècle
Authors: Anokhina Olga
Published: February 2025

Usando dois escritores russos emblemáticos do século XIX como exemplos, Púchkin e Tolstói, nosso artigo mostra a importância dos documentos de arquivo, dos quais a biblioteca pessoal faz parte, não apenas para a criatividade de um autor, mas também para memória histórica e cultural da humanidade.
GSDMD Deficiency Attenuates the Development of Ascending Aortic Dissections in a Novel Mouse Model
Authors: Javed Muhammad J. , Howard Rachael M. , Li Hua , Carrasco Laura , Dirain Marvin L.S. , Su Gang , Cai Guoshuai , Upchurch Gilbert R. , Jiang Zhihua
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Mechanisms driving the development of type A aortic dissection (TAD) are currently poorly understood, and animal models of spontaneous TAD are limited. In the present study, we developed a novel mouse TAD model and evaluated the role of GSDMD (gasdermin D) in TAD development.

METHODS:

TADs were created by treating the ascending aorta of adult C57BL/6J mice with Act E (active elastase) and β-aminopropionitrile. The temporal progress of the TAD pathology was rigorously characterized by histological evaluation and scanning electron microscopy, while potential mechanisms were explored using bulk RNA sequencing of specimens collected at multiple time points. With this novel TAD model, we conducted additional experiments to investigate the impact of GSDMD deficiency on TAD formation.

RESULTS:

Ascending aortas challenged with Act E and β-aminopropionitrile developed pathology featuring the early onset of intimomedial tears (complete penetration) and intramural hematomas, followed by progressive medial loss and aortic dilation. Ingenuity pathway analysis and functional annotation of differentially expressed genes suggested that a unique inflammatory microenvironment, rather than general inflammation, promotes the onset of TADs by specifically recruiting neutrophils to the aortic wall. At later stages, T cell–mediated immune injury emerged as the primary driver of pathology. Gsdmd deficiency attenuated medial loss, adventitial fibrosis, and dilation of TADs. This protective effect correlated with a reduced cell death and decreased T-cell infiltration in TADs. Notably, cleaved GSDMD was detected in human TADs but was absent in healthy aortas.

CONCLUSIONS:

A novel mouse TAD model was developed, specifically targeting the ascending aorta. This model generates a unique microenvironment that activates specific immune cell subsets, driving the onset and subsequent remodeling of TADs. Consistently, Gsdmd deficiency mitigates TAD development, likely by modulating cell death and T-cell responses. This model provides a valuable tool for studying immune injury mechanisms in TAD pathogenesis.
‘I’m Born Nxde, and You Are the Pervert’
Authors: Francistyová Bianka , Šašalová Veronika
Published: February 2025

This paper analyses the music video Nxde by (G)I-DLE, exploring its portrayal of femininity in the Korean music industry. It addresses the perpetuation of the beauty myth and objectification, symbolised by Marilyn Monroe as the ideal of beauty and innocence. Despite little change in media practices, the video challenges narrow perceptions of women beyond pure or vulgar binaries. It partially compares Nxde to the empowering video Tomboy emphasising the critique of the music industry’s perpetuation of beauty myths and sexualisation of artists. The video also highlights the impact on employment and education of discrimination based on appearance, contributing to societal inequality. Nxde confronts media audiences, exposing their objectifying tendencies and the commodification of desires. It acknowledges the need for systemic change and questions the authenticity of feminist voices within a commercialised industry that reproduces criticised symbols. While navigating the complexities of the Korean music industry, the video aims to shed light on social and gender issues within its constraints.
A new apterous species of Chevron Crickets Anabropsis Rehn, 1901 from Yunnan, China (Orthoptera: Anostostomatidae: Anabropsini)
Authors: YIN ZIXU
Published: February 2025

Anabropsis (Spinanabropsis) zeluni sp. nov. is described from Yunnan, China. The new species is characterized by an hourglass-shaped marking on the pronotum. A key to all apterous (or micropterous) subgenera of Anabropsis from China is provided. Type specimens are deposited in Museum of Biology, East China Normal University.
A new leafhopper genus and species on bamboo, described from Europe (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae, Mukariini), with remarkable seasonal dimorphism
Authors: SANNA FRANCESCO , HOLZINGER WERNER E. , CAVAGNA FRANCESCA , CALLOT HENRY , WEBB MICHAEL D.
Published: February 2025

Bamboosella Sanna & Webb gen. nov., with B. dimorpha Sanna, Holzinger & Callot, sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Characters of face and body, forewings venation and male genitalia place the new genus in the tribe Mukariini (Deltocephalinae). In common with all other members of the tribe, the species is oligophagous on bamboo (Phyllostachys spp., Poaceae) and has a flattened body. Bamboosella dimorpha has multiple generations per year which show remarkable seasonal dimorphism in terms of the shape of the aedeagus and the pygofer processes in males. This dimorphism is considered to be within a single species based on a study of biology, on the presence of intermediates and on molecular analyses. The species is reported from France, Italy, Slovenia, and Switzerland, but it is (as with its hostplant) not native in Europe and most likely originates from south-eastern Asia.
The Bali (Offering) Rituals Among the Māvilans of Southern India
Authors: Balan Binesh
Published: February 2025

The concept of “bali” in Hinduism is traditionally associated with sacrifice, particularly within the context of possession rituals such as teyyam in the Malabar region of South India, where it is often linked to practices of sorcery, magic, and witchcraft aimed at protection and prosperity. This conventional understanding, however, overlooks the multifaceted roles bali rituals play, especially in the mortuary practices of the Māvilan communities in Kasaragod district, northern Kerala. This ethnographic study explores the transformative role of bali rituals in converting the deceased into Aṇaṅṅu teyyam performances among the Māvilans, thereby facilitating communication between the living and the dead and venerating ancestral pasts through Tōṟṟam and Cācitra oral traditions. Employing Victor Turner’s concept of liminality as a theoretical framework, the research examines how these rituals navigate the transitional phases of death, enabling a seamless passage and continued presence of the deceased within the community’s cultural and spiritual landscape. This study underscores the importance of localized ethnographic inquiry in uncovering the complex interplay between ritual, belief, and social structure in shaping communal experiences of death and transformation.
Astragalus Polysaccharide Regulates Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition in HepG2 Liver Cancer Cells by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Sui Hongtao , Yang Hai , Huang Zongyuan , Zhang Caihua
Published: February 2025

Background

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial in liver cancer progression. Developing novel medicines to disrupt the progression of EMT might be a novel approach in managing liver cancer.

Purpose

This study investigates the protective role of Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), a bioactive compound derived from Astragalus membranaceus, in modulating EMT in HepG2 liver cancer cells.

Methods

The effects of APS on EMT progression were evaluated by assessing cell viability, proliferation, invasion, migration, cell cycle, and apoptosis in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, the involvement of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in this process was explored.

Results

Results: APS treatment significantly inhibited the viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration of HepG2 cells while promoting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Notably, APS reduced the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components, including NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein, and caspase-1, while decreasing the levels of inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the activator Nigericin dampened the effect of APS by partially rescuing the activity of NLRP3. Specifically, Nigericin promoted the development of EMT inhibited by APS and exacerbated the malignant transformation of HepG2 cells improved by APS.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated the function of APS in liver cancer and the process by which APS inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation to protect the EMT of HepG2 cells. Our results showed that by targeting NLRP3, the application of APS appears to be a viable tactic for preventing the progression of liver cancer.
Strategies of Legitimisation and De-legitimisation in Polarised Representations of Climate Activists in Swedish Media
Authors: Nilsson Bo
Published: February 2025

The number of media representations of climate activists has increased dramatically in Sweden recently. Some climate actions have attracted particular attention from Swedish media, such as when activists stopped traffic and disrupted public events. In this article, I present an analysis of media representations of both supporters and critics of climate activists in terms of strategies of legitimisation and de-legitimisation. The study is based on an examination of 98 Swedish media texts. The results reveal that risk-taking, self-sacrificing, heroisation, normalisation and personification are legitimisation strategies, while de-legitimisation strategies involve de-politicisation, rigid opposition, undermining the motive and stigmatisation. A conclusion is that the identified (de)legitimisation strategies are an expression of and contribute to increased polarisation between those who support the activists and those who criticise them. This polarisation takes different forms (partisan polarisation, affective polarisation and cultural polarisation) and risks contributing to an antagonistic debate where political opponents are transformed into enemies to be destroyed.
College Students’ Perceptions of the Impact of TikTok Use on Their Lives
Authors: Brammer Sydney E. , Martinez Ryan J. , Punyanunt-Carter Narissra M.
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate college students’ perceptions of the impact of TikTok use on their lives. A sample of college students ( N = 464) approached the topic via open-ended survey responses, and themes were created based on their answers through thematic analysis. College students’ strong perceptions regarding TikTok’s role in their daily lives yielded eight main themes: Time, None, Mental Health Discovery, Creativity, Humour, Connectivity, Trends and Financial Incentives. However, some participants stated that using TikTok has changed how they spend their time; most reported feeling that the platform did not impact their lives. Young adults may be unable to recognise the effects of social media platforms on their (mental) health. Potential adjustments to the platform or interventions in usage are suggested.
The Epidemiological Profile of Tuberculosis Patients and Risk Factors for Poor Treatment Outcomes in Sarpang District, Bhutan: A 17 Years Retrospective Study
Authors: Rai Nar Bahadur , Penjor Kinley , Gurung Amber Bahadur , Samdrup Tshewang , Dargay Yonten , Samzang Samzang , Wangdi Kinley
Published: February 2025

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major public health issues in Bhutan. This study aimed to evaluate epidemiology of TB and predictors of poor treatment outcomes in Sarpang District, Bhutan. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using TB case-based surveillance data of Sarpang District from 2005 to 2021. The outcome of interest was poor treatment outcome. The potential predictors were analyzed using logistic regression. A total of 1704 TB cases were analyzed in this study. The poor outcome in this study was 6.6% with 2.6% deaths due to TB. The patients older than 65 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.45, 7.90]) and sputum non-conversion in the second month with acid-fast bacilli results of scanty (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI = [1.29, 7.34]), 1+ (AOR = 7.12, 95% CI = [3.06, 16.53]), and 2+ (AOR = 21.05, 95% CI = [5.56, 79.63]) were the significant predictors of poor treatment outcome. Therefore, older age and sputum non-conversion in the second month should be given priority.
True inner self or fantasies and fabulation? Discourses on gender identity, sexuality, and LGBTQ among care workers in Swedish dementia care
Authors: Sandberg Linn J , Siverskog Anna
Published: February 2025

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer (LGBTQ) people make up a considerable proportion of those in need of formal dementia care. Yet sexuality and gender identity have received little attention in dementia care research. Using a discursive approach, this article explores how dementia care workers discuss and reflect on dementia, gender identity, sexuality and caring for LGBTQ people with dementia. The article is based on a focus group study with dementia care workers in Sweden, primarily nurses and nurse assistants. The findings point to pervasive heteronormativity in everyday care practice; non-normative sexualities and gender nonconformity were primarily deemed invisible but also sometimes questioned as “fabulations” or “fantasies”. The invisibility of LGBTQ people was discursively framed as a result of generational belonging: people with dementia belonged to generations who were assumed to be closeted. Gender identity and sexuality were also framed as sensitive issues that were difficult to address with people with cognitive conditions. Dementia was understood as bringing out the true sexual or gendered self, but also as causing confusion and inauthentic expressions of gender and sexuality. In conclusion, existing discursive framings locate problems of heteronormativity outside of care practice and risk leading to inaction; more direct challenges to heteronormativity are needed in dementia care.
Early versus delayed inguinal hernia repair in preterm infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Provinciatto Henrique , Barbosa Moreira Marcus Vinicius , de Freitas Lucas Rezende , Araujo Júnior Edward
Published: February 2025

Background

We aimed to perform a systematic review and updated meta-analysis evaluating the optimal timing for repairing inguinal hernia in preterm infants.

Methods

Cochrane Central, Embase, and PubMed were searched from inception to April 2024 for studies comparing early versus delayed repair of inguinal hernia in preterm infants, without applying filters or language limitations. We utilized the RStudio version 4.2.2 to compute risk ratios with random effects for our prespecified outcomes.

Results

In our study, which encompassed 1207 patients from eight studies, 676 (56%) preterm patients underwent early repair for inguinal hernia. Although we found no significant association between early repair and incarceration (risk ratio, 1.14; 95% Confidence Intervals, 0.76–1.70; p = 0.52; I2 = 19%), there was an increased risk of recurrence with early repair in comparison with delayed management (risk ratio, 3.11; 95% Confidence Intervals, 1.17–8.25; p = 0.02; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest postponing the repair of inguinal hernia in preterm infants until after hospitalization to avoid the potential increased risk of recurrence and respiratory complications associated with early repair.
Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Eze Solomon Uchechukwu , Onyekwelu Phina Njideka
Published: February 2025

This article investigates the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and the sustainability of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Anambra State, Nigeria. It looks at how AI technologies might help SMEs improve operational efficiency, lower expenses, and promote environmentally friendly behaviour. The article also discusses the challenges faced by these businesses in implementing AI, and offers recommendations for stakeholders, including governments, educational institutions, and industry associations, to assist these companies in integrating AI into their daily operations. This can be achieved through training programmes aimed at enhancing the digital and technological proficiency of the owners, managers, and staff of SMEs in Anambra State. The results show how AI may help SMEs in Anambra State reach sustainability objectives, fostering environmental preservation and eventually economic development.
Introduction to a review series on mantle cell lymphoma: sands shifting in the darkness
Authors: Armand Philippe
Published: February 2025

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma that defies cures in most patients. Over the last decade, significant advances have been made in our understanding of the biology of the disease, patient risk stratification, and novel therapies. Associate Editor Philippe Armand presents a series of reviews that provide advice on management of patients, illuminate current understanding of the molecular landscape associated with the disease, and how that may shape future research and care. Ryan et al review the current frontline management of MCL in a rapidly evolving field, underscoring ongoing phase 3 trials; Silkenstedt and Dreyling highlight the emerging treatments for relapsed and refractory MCL; Jain and Wang tackle the critical issue of risk assignment based on clinical and molecular features; and Sarkozy and colleagues explore in depth the biology of MCL with an emphasis not only on intrinsic vulnerabilities but also on the tumor microenvironment.
Improving research transparency with individualized report cards: A feasibility study in clinical trials at a large university medical center
Authors: Franzen Delwen L. , Salholz-Hillel Maia , Müller-Ohlraun Stephanie , Strech Daniel
Published: February 2025

Background

Research transparency is crucial for ensuring the relevance, integrity, and reliability of scientific findings. However, previous work indicates room for improvement across transparency practices. The primary objective of this study was to develop an extensible tool to provide individualized feedback and guidance for improved transparency across phases of a study. Our secondary objective was to assess the feasibility of implementing this tool to improve transparency in clinical trials.

Methods

We developed study-level “report cards” that combine tailored feedback and guidance to investigators across several transparency practices, including prospective registration, availability of summary results, and open access publication. The report cards were generated through an automated pipeline for scalability. We also developed an infosheet to summarize relevant laws, guidelines, and resources relating to transparency. To assess the feasibility of using these tools to improve transparency, we conducted a single-arm intervention study at Berlin’s university medical center, the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. Investigators (n = 92) of 155 clinical trials were sent individualized report cards and the infosheet, and surveyed to assess their perceived usefulness. We also evaluated included trials for improvements in transparency following the intervention.

Results

Survey responses indicated general appreciation for the report cards and infosheet, with a majority of participants finding them helpful to build awareness of the transparency of their trial and transparency requirements. However, improvement on transparency practices was minimal and largely limited to linking publications in registries. Investigators also commented on various challenges associated with implementing transparency, including a lack of clarity around best practices and institutional hurdles.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential of developing and using tools, such as report cards, to provide individualized feedback at scale to investigators on the transparency of their study. While these tools were positively received by investigators, the limited improvement in transparency practices suggests that awareness alone is likely not sufficient to drive improvement. Future research and implementation efforts may adapt the tools to further practices or research areas, and explore integrated approaches that combine the report cards with incentives and institutional support to effectively strengthen transparency in research.
Exploring effective patient feedback methods for eHealth in general practice
Authors: Nasori Mana , Vossen Marianne Mak-van der , Holtrop Marije , Bont Jettie
Published: February 2025

Background

The use of patient feedback is essential for identifying areas for improvement and tailoring care to the needs of patients, particularly in the context of eHealth, which has increased in adoption due to the pandemic. However, challenges persist in collecting feedback from vulnerable groups, those with severe conditions, or language barriers. Furthermore, concerns exist about the credibility and validity of the feedback received. This study aims to explore various possible forms that general practitioners (GPs) could use to collect patient feedback on eHealth applications in their daily practice.

Methods

A Participatory Research (PR) was conducted involving an advisory group, patients, GPs and medical receptionists. The advisory group consisting of GPs, a board member, patient representatives and digital care manager affiliated with the primary care organisation ‘Regionale Organisatie Huisartsen Amsterdam’ (ROHA). The group provided input throughout the research process from the setup, data collection and interpretation to the finalization phase. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 patients, 8 GPs and 2 medical receptionists. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Interviews were coded using Thematic Analysis.

Results

Four themes were considered important. First, timing of feedback. Gathering instant feedback immediately after digital interactions was considered important. Secondly, the feedback procedure, whereby feedback should be given through the same communication channel as was used for the doctor-patient contact was valued. Also, participants preferred short and specific surveys, in which they can remain anonymous. Thirdly, for the feedback content some key feedback topics included general experiences, quality of care and technical aspects. The last theme was advertisement. Overall, patients do not want to burden their GP and thus tend to only give feedback if initiated by their GP. GPs themselves pointed out to have limited time for collecting feedback from patients due to their workload.

Conclusion

GPs can optimize the feedback collection process by selecting targeted questions and integrating them into existing eHealth applications, thereby investing minimal time from GPs and patients. It is recommended to include automatic selected questions at the end of e-consultations. This integrated approach allows efficient feedback collection without burdening GPs.
Norwegian kidney biopsy biobank (NorKiBB): organization, baseline characteristics, and generalizability of a low-cost national biobank
Authors: Øvrehus Marius Altern , Asbjørn Knut , Langlo Rise , Leh Sabine , Eikrem Øystein , Romundstad Solfrid , Aksnes Håvard , Manner Ingjerd Wangensteen , Aalborg Christian , Solbu Marit D. , Gøransson Lasse G. , Marti Hans-Peter , Shlipak Michael G. , Ix Joachim H. , Hallan Stein I.
Published: February 2025

Background

Biobanks that hold blood, urine and kidney tissue are key for translational nephrology research but are few and have limited availability. We describe the organization, baseline characteristics, and generalizability of a low-cost national biobank.

Materials and methods

Eight Norwegian hospitals participated in this multi-center, prospective cohort study and biobank initiative. Patients referred for routine clinical native kidney biopsies were eligible for inclusion, starting September 2020. Extensive information on medical history and risk factors were collected into an encrypted on-line database by the treating nephrologist. A comprehensive standardized panel of blood and urine tests were analyzed in the clinical routine and registered along with the full histology report. Extra urine and blood samples were collected, aliquoted and prepared locally within two hours, frozen at -80 C, and later sent to a central government-funded biorepository together with remaining kidney biopsy material.

Results

By September 2023, a total of 633 patients were included out of 1050 eligible patients. Mean age was 52.6 years (SD 18.7), 384 (61%) were men, and participants displayed a wide spectrum of kidney disease with mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 53 mL/min/1.73m2. The most frequent biopsy indications were progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) of unknown cause, acute kidney disease, and isolated hematuria/proteinuria. The most frequent diagnoses were IgA nephropathy (21%), arterionephrosclerosis (13%), and diabetes nephropathy (9%). Biopsy indications and diagnoses were similar to the spectrum typically seen in Norway and other western countries, and similar population level kidney health measures were demonstrated for Norway, United Kingdom, and USA.

Discussion

We demonstrate the feasibility of establishing a large national kidney biopsy biobank across a variety of clinical and histopathologic diagnoses. Blood and urine were stored, accompanied by kidney tissue, at a moderate cost due to a combination of a dedicated nephrology workforce, routine clinical care, and established biobank facilities.
Potential effect of the number and type of birth on udder, milk yield, milk composition, ovarian follicles, and certain blood parameters in Baladi goat
Authors: Ali Montaser Elsayed , Mohamed Ragab Hassan , Hussein Hassan A. , Mahmoud Abdellah Hassan , Rabee Alaa Emara , Zakaria Asem Mohammed
Published: February 2025

Background

Multifetal births are the most significant economic characteristic in goats. Therefore, physiologically, exploring the influence of their birth frequency on genital function and milk production is vital. The present study was carried out to monitor the potential effect of the number and type of birth on udder, milk yield, milk composition, ovarian follicles, and certain blood parameters in dam's Baladi goats during the postpartum period. On the birth day, fifty Baladi goat dams were separated into five equal groups based on the number of births: (G1) female kids and (G2) male kids. In addition to gender, there are three categories: (G3) single kids, (G4) twin kids, and (G5) triple kids. All of the offspring looked to be in good health, moving about regularly, and displaying no symptoms of peripartum pregnancy problems.

Results

The data revealed that the udder width of dams in G4 and G5 was significantly higher (p < 0.033) than G3, while the udder circumference was increased in the G5. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in the udder measurements between G1 and G2. Gender of birth showed a significant higher in large follicle ≤ 5 mm (p < 0.005), medium follicle (p < 0.004), and small follicle ≥ 3 mm (p < 0.004) in the G2 compared to the G1. Also, the follicular population (p < 0.042) of the medium and the diameter follicle (p < 0.038) of the small ≥ 3 mm were significantly higher in the G5 compared to the G3. The Pearson correlation (r) was determined to increase the milk yield with an increase in udder length, udder width, and udder circumference. Also, there was a positive correlation among the udder length with protein, salt, solids not fat, and total solids. A negative correlation was found among udder width and udder circumference with fat, lactose, solids not fat, and total solids. There was a negative correlation between the ultrasonographic examination of ovarian follicles and milk yield.

Conclusions

This study may provide valuable information regarding the association of udder parameters and ovarian population with milk yield and its composition as an indicator of milk production in goat dams based on gender and number of births.
A bacterial artificial chromosome mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis manifests ‘space cadet syndrome’ on two FVB backgrounds
Authors: Badger Sophie E. , Coldicott Ian , Kyrgiou-Balli Ergita , Higginbottom Adrian , Moutin Chloé , Mohd Imran Kamallia , Day John C. , Cooper-Knock Johnathan , Mead Richard J. , Alix James J. P.
Published: February 2025

C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)/frontotemporal dementia (FTD) has proven difficult to model in mice. Liu et al. (2016) reported a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenic mouse displaying behavioural, motor and pathological abnormalities. This was followed by multiple laboratories independently refuting and confirming phenotypes. A proposed explanation centred on the use of different FVB background lines (from The Jackson Laboratory and Janvier Labs). We studied C9orf72 BAC mice on both backgrounds and found significantly elevated levels of dipeptide repeat proteins, but no evidence of a transgene-associated phenotype. We observed seizures and a gradual decline in functional performance in transgenic and non-transgenic mice, irrespective of genetic background. The phenotype was in keeping with the so-called ‘space cadet syndrome’. Our findings indicate that the differences previously reported are not due to C9orf72 status and highlight the importance of using genetic backgrounds that do not confound interpretation of neurodegenerative phenotypes.
Dachsous is a key player in epithelial wound closure by modulating cell shape changes and tissue mechanics
Authors: Porfírio-Rodrigues Patrícia , Pereira Telmo , Jacinto Antonio , Carvalho Lara
Published: February 2025

Epithelia are vital tissues in multicellular organisms, acting as barriers between external and internal environments. Simple epithelia, such as pg those in embryos and the adult gut, have the remarkable ability to repair wounds efficiently, making them ideal for studying epithelial repair mechanisms. In these tissues, wound closure involves the coordinated action of a contractile actomyosin cable at the wound edge and collective cell movements around the wound. However, the dynamics of cell-cell interactions during this process remain poorly understood.

Here, we demonstrate that Dachsous (Ds), an atypical cadherin associated with Planar Cell Polarity, is crucial for efficient epithelial repair in the Drosophila embryo. We show that the absence of Ds alters tissue mechanics and cell shape changes and rearrangements, leading to slower wound closure. Additionally, we reveal that Occluding Junctions are necessary for the proper apical localization of Ds, uncovering an unanticipated interaction between these two molecular complexes. This study identifies Ds as a novel key player in epithelial repair and highlights the need for further investigating the molecular mechanisms by which Ds modulates cell shape and tissue morphogenesis.
Strategia polityki globalnej UE (Global Gateway) – implikacje teoretyczne i praktyczne
Authors: Kwieciński Leszek
Published: February 2025

THE EU’S GLOBAL POLICY STRATEGY (GLOBAL GATEWAY) – THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS
This paper has analysed some aspects of the EU’s global policy. Both formal-legal and political aspects of the EU’s legal-international subjectivity are highlighted. EU global policy issues are linked to integration models and concepts and analysed in terms of the new intergovernmentalism, policy networks and external governance. Finally, the implications of this strategy and the lessons for EU and Member State foreign policy are drawn.
Did COP26 Lapse or Not Lapse the Core Objective of the UNFCCC Under the Paris Agreement-carbon markets?
Authors: Asadnabizadeh Majid
Published: February 2025

It is widely believed that there is academic literature addressing the United Nations Climate Summit, but there is no systematic review and analysis of research on COP26 and its objectives under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This article describes a qualitative meta-synthesis of research on COP26 that examines the extent to which evidence exists for changes in reducing greenhouse gases as a core objective of the UNFCCC. A systematic analysis and synthesis of various studies have shown that Article 6.2 (not lapsed) has undergone a significant change in relation to the core objective of the UNFCCC under the market-based approach. Several studies have found that Article 6.4 (lapsed) has hardly changed under a marketbased approach. The results for Article 6.8 under non-market-based approaches (lapsed) were similar, although COP26 did not have the opportunity to provide “Just Change Evidence”. The article concludes by identifying gaps in scientific research and suggesting additional scientific work to increase the availability of evidence for non-market approaches.
Russo-Ukrainian War’s Impact on Space Security – The Western Perspective
Authors: Czajkowski Marek
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the impact of the democratisation of space on space security is investigated using the example of the war in Ukraine, with particular attention to the transatlantic community’s security concerns. It is argued that the growing reliance on space systems for security-related purposes by an increasing number of international actors has significant potential to impact the dynamics of international relations, particularly in a regional dimension. This process naturally accelerates the development of counterspace measures designed to negate spacederived, security-related capabilities. Consequently, increasing the resilience of current and future space systems – including commercial ones – is crucial if Western nations are to maintain their edge in space applications.
72 FESTIVAL INTERNACIONAL DE CINE DE SAN SEBASTIÁN: UN ALTAVOZ SOCIAL
Authors: RUBIO POBES CORO
Published: February 2025

Este artículo es una reseña crítica de la 72 edición del Festival Internacional de Cine de San Sebastián (SSIFF 72) celebrada entre el 20 y el 28 de septiembre de 2024, en la que ha obtenido el máximo galardón, la Concha de Oro, el film documental Tardes de soledad dirigido por Albert Serra. El artículo se centra en su Sección Oficial, si bien recoge también referencias a filmes premiados en otros festivales y presentados en la sección Perlak que tengan especial interés historiográfico.
TRÍPTICO DE LA VIDA SEXUAL MEDIEVAL: EL DECAMERÓN, LA MARRANA Y EL ÚLTIMO DUELO
Authors: ORTEGA BAÚN ANA E.
Published: February 2025

El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar tres películas de cine medieval que son muy correctas con respecto a la sexualidad que cuentan, con un objetivo didáctico (El Decamerón de Pasolini, La Marrana de Cuerda y El último duelo de Scott). Todas parten de fuentes de la época y aunque muestran diferentes ámbitos geográficos, comparten las mismas realidades en torno a diferentes temas sexuales. De ellas se obtiene rápida y de manera amena unos buenos conocimientos sobre un tema tan desconocido como la sexualidad en el Medievo.
Inclusión del autismo en la fuerza laboral del patrimonio cultural barcelonés
Authors: Bertran Serrano Laura , Abellan-Calvet Nur
Published: February 2025

El Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA) es un desorden neurológico del desarrollo que afecta principalmente la comunicación e interacción social, presentando así desafíos en la búsqueda y retención de empleo. No obstante, conforme la sociedad progresa en la comprensión de este trastorno, se está reconociendo cada vez más sus habilidades excepcionales y su potencial para contribuir en diversos trabajos. Esta investigación se enfoca en descubrir las mejores prácticas inclusivas para integrar laboralmente a personas con autismo en instituciones culturales barcelonesas. Se realizaron 11 entrevistas, 9 a empleados con TEA y 2 a las representantes de sus respectivas iniciativas inclusivas, con el fin de comprender estos proyectos y asegurar su efectividad. Los resultados muestran que ambas comparten muchas similitudes en su desarrollo. Mediante esas analogías, más una comparación de literatura académica, se han recopilado 15 consejos para facilitar la integración laboral de individuos con autismo en instituciones culturales.
Geografía turística en Jane Austen: Bath destino termal y origen del turismo como fenómeno social
Authors: Sánchez Sánchez María Dolores , Sánchez Sánchez María Asunción
Published: February 2025

El turismo se configura en la Inglaterra de finales del siglo XVIII y principios del XIX como fenómeno social y realidad económica, convirtiéndose el termalismo en hábito esencial en el ocio de las clases altas. Con el objetivo de confirmar, mediante fuentes literarias, que el origen del turismo moderno como fenómeno social ya está presente en la Inglaterra georgiana, y que Bath es ejemplo pionero de creación de un destino turístico, se propone un enfoque poco estudiado de las prácticas sociales en torno a un espacio turístico, pues escasean los estudios que lo aborden a partir de la literatura. El análisis se realiza a través de dos novelas de Jane Austen, La abadía de Northanger (1818) y Persuasión (1818), asumidas como representativas para la construcción de un discurso histórico del turismo en la Inglaterra georgiana. La incorporación a sus tramas de estancias en Bath muestra con detallada precisión la práctica social ya habitual, para determinadas clases, del turismo termal. Se analiza el espacio geográfico turístico con especial atención a hábitos sociales y de ocio y se constata la consolidación del turismo como fenómeno social que transforma en destinos turísticos aquellos espacios en que se desarrolla.
New findings of neogene tortoises Titanochelon kayadibiensis sp. nov. and Protestudo bessarabica (Riabinin, 1918) (Testudinidae) from the Miocene of western Turkey, with a review of fossil turtles of Turkey
Authors: Volker Karl Hans , Staesche Ulrich , Safi Amtyaz
Published: February 2025

Fossil remains of turtles were discovered in various localities of Lower to Upper Miocene within the western part of Turkey. We revised the taxonomic position and describe the systematic paleontology, distribution, phylogeny and palaeo-environments of two Neogene taxa Titanochelon kayadibiensis sp. nov. and Protestudo bessarabica (Testudinidae) of Western Turkey and give an updated list of fossil turtles of Turkey which include Trionyx triunguis (ForskÃ¥l, 1775), Mauremys aristotelica Vlachos et al, 2019, Testudo marmorum Gaudry, 1862, Protestudo bessarabica Riabinin, 1918 and Titanochelon kayadibiensis sp.nov.Â Â
Healing Mind: Mental health, Indigenous healers and Traditional Medicine
Authors: Singh Ravinder , Kumar Upmesh
Published: February 2025

Mental illnesses and other psychosocial disabilities are main source of burden for the family. About 13.7 per cent of general population of India has issues of mental illness or disorders and 10.6 per cent of these people need immediate intervention for the treatment followed by 10 per cent of the population has common mental disorders with 1.9 per cent people suffers with severe mental disorders. The mental morbidity is very high in urban areas. There is a higher prevalence of neurotic or stress-related disorders, schizophrenia and mood disorders. This situation may be due to fast-life styles, experiencing stress, complexities of living, a breakdown of support systems and challenges of economic instability. There are few population-level insights into the use of traditional healers and other forms of alternative care for the treatment of common mental disorders in our country as well as in South Asian and sub-Saharan Africa countries. Paper examines the extent to which alternative practitioners are consulted, and predictors of traditional healer visits for various neuropsychiatric diseases. Further it illuminates studies and national survey conducted on mental health on tribal communities and the role of traditional healers in the country. Paper raised the issue of mental illnesses as prevalent in the country and questions that do indigenous healing matters in healing the mind for better mental health in our country in first part of the paper besides analyzing recent survey, NMHS-2014. Then illuminates various mind healing ways and put it in question whether we can protect these healers and their medicines in existing IPR in part-II followed by traditional knowledge, medicines, National policy and cases of Indian patents and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in the last part where we conclude countries like Canada, South Africa or New Zeeland have supported for integration of traditional healers with main stream health care system. There are fears also generated for example in Canada that increasing acceptance of traditional healing may result into sea change. The lessons of these countries may be useful for our planning for integration of healers and their medicine in our country for effective resources utilization of the traditional healers and their medicines.Â Â Â