bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein Contributes to Cholesterol-induced β-Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Akter Rehana , Hogan Meghan F , Esser Nathalie , Barrow Breanne M , Castillo Joseph J , Boyko Edward J , Templin Andrew T , Hull Rebecca L , Zraika Sakeneh , Kahn Steven E
Published: February 2025

Hypercholesterolemia is often observed in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Cholesterol accumulation in subcellular compartments within islet β-cells can result in insulin secretory dysfunction, which is a key pathological feature of diabetes. Previously, we demonstrated that expression of the mitochondrial cholesterol transport protein, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), is induced in islets under conditions of β-cell dysfunction. However, whether it contributes to mitochondrial cholesterol accumulation in β-cells and cholesterol-induced β-cell dysfunction has not been determined. Thus, we sought to examine the role of StAR in isolated mouse islets under conditions of excess exogenous cholesterol. Cholesterol treatment of islets upregulated StAR expression, which was associated with cholesterol accumulation in mitochondria, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and impaired mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Impaired insulin secretion and reduced islet insulin content were also observed in cholesterol-laden islets. To determine the impact of StAR overexpression in β-cells per se, a lentivirus was used to increase StAR expression in INS-1 cells. Under these conditions, StAR overexpression was sufficient to increase mitochondrial cholesterol content, impair mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, and reduce insulin secretion. These findings suggest that elevated cholesterol in diabetes may contribute to β-cell dysfunction via increases in StAR-mediated mitochondrial cholesterol transport and accumulation.
Evaluative Uncertainty and Permissible Preference
Authors: Horton Joe , Ross Jacob
Published: February 2025

There has recently been an explosion of interest in rational and moral choice under evaluative uncertainty—uncertainty about values or reasons. However, the dominant views on such choice have at least three major problems: they are overly demanding, they are incompatible with supererogation, and they cannot be applied to agents with credence in indeterminate evaluative theories. The authors propose a unified view that solves all these problems. According to this view, permissible options maximize expected utility relative to permissible preferences, and different kinds of permissibility for options correspond to different kinds of permissibility for preferences. Thus, rationally permissible options maximize expected utility relative to rationally permissible preferences, and morally permissible options maximize expected utility relative to morally permissible preferences. The authors argue that this view has more plausible implications than its rivals not only under evaluative uncertainty but also under ordinary uncertainty.
Witchcraft in My Community
Authors: Tushabe Tushabe wa , Humura Patricia , Asiimwe Ruth
Published: February 2025

Witchcraft in Africa was widely condemned by colonial constitutions and religious morals, and especially by Christianity. In Uganda, colonial legislation was later voided due to definitional ambiguities, but the condemnation of practices labeled as witchcraft remained. The impact on communities is still prevalent and can be located in various language expressions, spaces, and reactions, including shame and people's attempt to distance themselves from herbal use for ailments and training in the craft of herbal healing. In this chapter, the authors each share their experience with practices labeled as witchcraft as a journey of healing from shame and to affirm herbal healing as integral to matters of sex and sexuality and creating harmony in community.
Resurrecting Granny
Authors: McCann Brandy Renee
Published: February 2025

Appalachian folk magic traditions, which are widely practiced throughout the mountainous region of the eastern United States, are referred to as granny magic, hillbilly hoodoo, doctoring, and cunning, among other terms. This chapter covers the historical context of granny women and other magic workers, followed by an overview of key traditions such as planting by the signs, biblical charms, and traditional medicine. Although these descriptions can invoke stereotypes of Appalachian people, granny witches and their kinfolk are part of a bricolage of Appalachian identities that reconfigure stereotypes. Contemporary practices include many older ones and add “wild tending” and consciousness-raising—practices that are socially embedded, spiritually renewing, and politically active.
Ecstatic Desires
Authors: Clay Simon , Quilty Emma
Published: February 2025

Witches and queerness have an intrinsic connection. The witch does not conform to social norms, has a disordered or peculiar body, and engages in perverse sexual acts. In this chapter, we explore the inherent queerness of the witch's body and how witchcraft techniques of ekstasis, including BDSM and “flying ointments,” queer the body. These ecstatic practices are not only used to unsettle the blurry boundaries of the body and connect with the other-than-human but are also designed to create queer sensations. They can be considered forms of radical resistance against systemic marginalization and acts of feminist defiance. We also show the intimate relationship between queerness and witch sex, and how witches use BDSM as a queer identity practice.
Fortune-Telling, Women's Friendship, and Divination Commodification in Contemporary Italy
Authors: Tartari Morena
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores the practice of fortune-telling among female friends in contemporary Italy. While expanding the scope of feminist knowledge into underinvestigated practices of divination, the chapter aims to contribute to the growing literature on patriarchy, women's (self-)care practices, and the commodification of intimacies in the Global North with attention to the role of global factors. Data are provided by a research study inspired by the feminist sociological critical approach of institutional ethnography, which includes participant observation and in-depth interviews to collect the standpoint of the women involved in such practices. The author shows how, through the practice of divination, women negotiate with or resist the dominant discourse that rules gender roles and relations, and how they fill in the disjunctures between their actual needs and societal requests. Finally, the findings point out the role emotional support provides through these practices and contributes to the development of new forms of spirituality.
Pakistan's Churails
Authors: Amir Maria
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores how the Pakistani-produced-and-directed television series Churails presents female rebellion and rage among various women separated by class and status. The characters in the show repeatedly defy social convention and centralize their own passions, desires, and need for retribution from the men who have wronged them in a myriad of ways. Using moments from the series as motifs for rebellion, the chapter underscores how the show's female protagonists form their own vigilante coven despite being separated by underlying divisions across social class and experience. The series explores how, despite social divisions, the four protagonists are united in their rage and how this rage is repeatedly framed as a form of witchcraft. This chapters posits how this depiction of feminine rage can be utilized by young feminist activists in the country to uncover new approaches to centralizing rebellion.
Hexing the Patriarchy
Authors: Chernoff Carolyn
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores revolutionary aesthetics and the role of online engagement for the twenty-first-century incarnation of the 1970s radical feminist group W.I.T.C.H. The politics of both groups are radical for their times, although they differ dramatically in terms of representation and focus. The modern W.I.T.C.H. can be seen as an act of socially engaged art, using tropes of the monstrous to challenge patriarchal power.
Disappearing Acts
Authors: Shannon Jacquelyn Marie
Published: February 2025

This chapter draws upon participant observation of Witch School, hosted by queer witch-owned Catland Books, as a site of modern witchcraft ritual performance. Through a dramaturgical lens motivated by questions of form—what witchcraft ritual forms are, how they work, and what they make possible—the chapter analyzes purification and protection rites as belonging to a category of ritual performance called “disappearing acts”: ritual practices that engage magic through structures and techniques that are predicated on loss and absence but perform as/through rites of exposure. Analysis of disappearance in witchcraft ritual suggests that one accesses magic by actively acknowledging and accessing loss, of doing something with and to it. Considering modern witchcraft's growing popularity and intersectionality, particularly in the context of the global pandemic, the chapter argues that witchcraft ritual allows people to access a sense of magic through loss and, by doing so, it capacitates them to act in service to life.
We Are All Witches
Authors: Barton Bernadette
Published: February 2025

This chapter is an autobiographical essay in which the author briefly describes the origins and characteristics of paganism (and its most popular branch, Wicca) and shares details of her spiritual journey to uncovering her inner pagan. From shaking hands to blessing someone when they sneeze to wearing the colors of one's sports team at a game to giving a toast to sending flowers to making a home altar to wild dancing at a club, the author shows how people already engage in a rich variety of Wiccan rituals in daily life. By making visible some of the paganism threaded through daily life, the author dispels stereotypes about magic and witchcraft, helps legitimate paganism as a religious paradigm, and showcases our deep and intuitive pagan spirituality. Paganism is hiding in plain sight because, as the author demonstrates, we are all witches.
Witching the Institution
Authors: Charnock Ruth , Schaller Karen
Published: February 2025

When we think about the academic institution, where is the witch? Equally, when we think about the witch, where is the academic institution? And why is it that, although cultural representations of witches “coming into” their witching frequently imagine this initiation happening in the classroom, the scholarly study of witches rarely acknowledges a relationship between the academic institution and becoming a witch? Written collaboratively, this chapter takes the form of a series of spells and rituals to counteract the knowledge-industrial complex and how it has positioned the witch.
Ethiopia's Potato Seed System: Regulatory Challenges, Quality Assurance Issues, and Pathways for Improvement ─ A mini review
Authors: Tessema Lemma , Seid Ebrahim
Published: February 2025

Background Ethiopia’s potato seed system is currently hindered by a disjointed regulatory framework, insufficient quality assurance processes, and a lack of collaboration among stakeholders, which collectively impede agricultural productivity and food security. The regulatory environment is characterized by inconsistent seed certification practices and a dependence on informal seed sources, negatively affecting the quality of potato seeds available to farmers. Although potatoes play a crucial role in global food security by providing high yields compared to other staple crops, the sector grapples with significant challenges due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, limited technical expertise, and the widespread presence of counterfeit seeds throughout the value chain. Methods To tackle these challenges, this mini-review outlines potential improvements, stressing the necessity for a unified regulatory framework tailored to the unique issues of vegetatively propagated crops. For this reason, we have used different literature source from web of science, Pubmed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate and other scientific websites. We have documented the most relevant information focusing on potato seed system, regulatory frameworks, quality assurance bottlenecks and pathways for improvement across the seed value chain. Results our paper highlights key recommendations that includes enhancing training for regulatory staff, investing in research for disease-resistant varieties, and bolstering public-private partnerships to encourage innovation and resource sharing. Furthermore, improving traceability in the seed supply chain is essential for maintaining seed quality and integrity. Conclusions This review calls for a comprehensive strategy that fosters stakeholder engagement and promotes sustainable practices to rejuvenate Ethiopia’s potato seed system, thereby supporting the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers and strengthening national food security through integrated seed sector development and capacity improvement of the seed regulatory body as well as smallholder farmers.
Li-ideals of implicative almost distributive lattices
Authors: Mechderso Alachew Amaneh , Munie Tilahun  Mekonnen
Published: February 2025

Background In this paper, we introduce the concept of H-implicative almost distributive lattices, which are a special class of lattices with both implicative and almost distributive properties. This study is aimed at extending the understanding of lattice structures and their ideals, particularly focusing on LI-ideals, a novel concept within H-implicative almost distributive lattices. Methods We define an LI-ideal of an implicative almost distributive lattice L and investigate its properties. The paper demonstrates that every LI-ideal in L is an almost distributive lattice ideal of L. Additionally, we explore the relationship between filters and LI-ideals, and we study the process of generating an LI-ideal from a given set. Lastly, we examine the construction of quotient structures via LI-ideals. Results We present several examples showing that every almost distributive lattice ideal is also an LI-ideal in an H-implicative almost distributive lattice. The study establishes key relationships between the concepts of filters and LI-ideals. Furthermore, we provide a method for generating an LI-ideal from a set and construct a quotient structure using an LI-ideal. Conclusions The paper introduces new concepts and relationships within the study of H-implicative almost distributive lattices. Our findings demonstrate the interconnection between almost distributive lattice ideals and LI-ideals and offer insights into how these ideals can be generated and used to construct quotient structures. This work provides a deeper understanding of lattice theory and opens new avenues for further research in the area of lattice ideals.
Exploring the relationship between macroeconomic indicators and sectoral indices of Indian stock market
Authors: Chauhan Sanjay Singh , Suri Pradeep , Twala Bhekisipho , Priyadarshi Neeraj , Ali Farman
Published: February 2025

Background of the study The influence of macroeconomic indicators makes it important to study the relationship between macroeconomic indicators and stock market return. On further analysis it can be observed that different sectors respond differently to change in the macroeconomic indicator that is important for investors, researchers and policy makers. Methods The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model is applied to study influence of macroeconomic indicators on sectoral return of NSE from April 2012 to August 2024. Results Findings of the study show that macroeconomic indicators influence sectoral return in the short run as well as long run and the influence is differential. The analysis of long run relationship shows that Foreign Institutional Investment (FII) significantly affects all the sectoral indices except IT. Index of industrial production (IIP) have significant relationship with Auto, IT, Media, Metal and Pharma. Money supply (MS) significantly affects Bank, FMCG and IT in the long run. Wholesale Price Index (WPI) has significant relationship with Auto, FMCG and Media in the long run. Economic Policy Uncertainty Index (EPU) affects Auto, FMCG and Pharma in the long run. Crude oil price (COP) has significant effect only on Media in the long run. Exchange rate (ER) does not have significant effect on any of the sectoral index. Conclusion In the long run FII, IIP, EPU, MS and WIP are major determinants of stock market return. In the short run FII, ER and COP are major determinants of stock market return.
Optimizing Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure with EVGridNet by Internet of Things and Machine Learning Strategies
Authors: Ramani R. , Nalini Anandan
Published: February 2025

In the arena of renewable energy integration for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, it is a problem to efficiently use solar power with EV charging, considering grid constraints and user preferences. The current study proposes a new smart charging algorithm that utilizes IoT data for the dynamic optimization of EV charging patterns. A novel aspect of the study was a deep learning model, "EVGridNet", that reliably predicts solar energy output and grid prices. EVGridNet uses deep learning approaches to process accumulated data via IoT devices, facilitating fine-tuned adjustments to charging patterns through predictive analytics. {This algorithm receives actual data on the generation of solar energy, the price of grid electricity, and other characteristics set by the user to optimize the usage of solar energy, limit the usage of grid electricity during the peak hours and meet all the needs of the user.} The optimization process of the algorithm strategically manages energy sources, uses battery storage systems to exploit solar power effectively and uses grid electricity during low-cost periods, all within user preference parameters. The proposed system has the potential of reducing grid electric use by up to 25% for EV charging, and increasing the renewable energy electricity in EV charging to 40% as per simulation results. This will enable quick EV infrastructure scalability, low carbon emission, and energy independence. EVGridNet is an outstanding innovation in smart charging technology, which is a cost-effective and scalable solution to the renewable energy sector's primary challenge. One of the key aspects of the optimization process is the control of energy sources where battery storage systems allow for flexibility in using solar energy and grid electricity within certain pre-set thresholds.
A Computer System Operation and Maintenance Interaction Platform Based on Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Wu Wenqiu
Published: February 2025

To address the challenge of inefficient data management in computer operation and maintenance across various scales, the author suggests an artificial intelligence-driven platform for computer system operation and maintenance interaction. A computer operation and maintenance management approach has been devised, leveraging artificial intelligence technology. This method entails the segmentation of the computer operation and maintenance structure to efficiently manage signals transmitted by computers, ensuring swift signal transmission. With the integration of artificial intelligence, the approach achieves superior space utilization and data throughput. By comparing past computer operation and maintenance management methods. The experimental results show that the maximum space saving percentage can reach 75%, and the minimum is also higher than 40%. The throughput is the highest at various data scales, with an average throughput of 704.67 MB/s. The higher the average throughput value, the higher the management efficiency. Conclusion: Computer operation and maintenance management methods based on artificial intelligence technology have better management effects, can better save space, and improve management efficiency.
Power Data Analysis and Privacy Protection Based on Federated Learning
Authors: Li Yajie , Chen Shuting , Hu Xinmiao , Xu Sen , Fan Mao
Published: February 2025

In order for active distribution network operators to carry out power business such as load forecasting without meter reading rights, the author proposes a research on power data analysis and privacy protection based on federated learning. The author proposes a federated learning load forecasting framework for industry user data protection by selecting weather and time factors as the correlation factors of load. On this basis, the author constructed an industry user dataset and established a load forecasting model based on Long Short Term Time Series Network (LSTNet). At the same time, the FedML framework was used to establish a sub industry load forecasting framework based on federated learning. The results indicate that: The accuracy of the industry specific load forecasting framework based on federated learning proposed by the author is less than 9 p.u., and the theoretical maximum value of SMAPE is 210 p.u., indicating that this method has universality and universality and can be applied in different industries. The training method of this scheme is parallel, although it increases the interaction time by 1 minute, the interaction time accounts for a smaller proportion compared to the training time, and the time consumption is interaction time (1 minute)+single training time (94 minutes). Conclusion: The method can enable users in the same industry to conduct federated training without sharing load data, and support active distribution network operators in related business operations while protecting user electricity privacy. It has better predictive performance, fewer model numbers, and shorter time consumption.
Exploration on Grassroots Party Building Innovation Driven by Big Data
Authors: Miao Lingling
Published: February 2025

Big data has become a disruptive factor in many fields in the digital age, including grassroots party development and political organizing. This study examines the creative use of big data to support grassroots party building initiatives with the goal of defining its effects and possibilities in promoting more effective, flexible, and responsive political systems. This study looks at how big data analytics can be incorporated into grassroots community mobilization, policy formation, and political involvement processes using a thorough analytical methodology. We investigate several case studies where the application of big data tools and methodologies has improved engagement strategies, streamlined decision-making processes, and improved communication between party leaders and voters. The RNN-LSTM algorithm's principle is discussed in this work from an Internet+ standpoint, and the objective function and regularization term are used in the Taylor expansion to maximize the algorithm's objective function. The RNN-LSTM model is then trained to identify its ideal splitting nodes, and the ten-fold cross-validation technique is used to assess the model's performance. This multifaceted research explains how big data encourages creativity in grassroots party mobilization, coalition building, voter engagement, and issue advocacy through case studies, quantitative measures, and qualitative observations. incorporating curriculum thinking's ingrained ideological science into the creation of grassroots party formation to activate curriculum thinking's nurturing function. The study ends with tactical suggestions for incorporating big data into grassroots party formation successfully, opening the door for additional data-driven approaches in governance and political processes. This study adds to the growing body of knowledge about the relationship between digital technology and political innovation, namely at the grassroots level.
Forecast of Tobacco Raw Material Demand Based on Combination Prediction Model
Authors: Chen Bin , Zhou Jilai , Fang Haiying , Xu Renjie , Qu Weiyi
Published: February 2025

In order to improve the prediction accuracy of tobacco raw material demand, this paper presented a combined prediction model. Combined prediction model first used Holt-winters exponential smoothing method and SARIMA model to forecast the demand of cigarette raw materials respectively, and then used BP neural network to aggregate the results of these two predictions to get the final prediction result. Holt-winters exponential smoothing method, SARIMA model and combined prediction model were used to forecast the demand data of tobacco raw materials, respectively. For the prediction of the same material, the error of the combined prediction model were all less than the other two models. The prediction accuracy of combined prediction model was higher.
Improvement of the ACO Algorithm for Intelligent Task Scheduling in Cloud Systems
Authors: Djebbar Esma Insaf , Belalem Ghalem
Published: February 2025

Cloud computing involves accessing and using computing resources, such as servers, storage, and software applications, over the Internet, enabling scalable access on demand. Cloud computing systems are becoming an essential platform for scientific applications. They enable task scheduling and IT resource allocation. When these resources are not enough to meet demand, planning techniques are necessary. We propose to apply an improved ACO algorithm for intelligent task scheduling and appropriate resource allocation in a cloud environment. This work proposes a modified version of the ACO algorithm that can quickly converge to the best solution to further optimize the total response time, the average response time and the total execution cost. The algorithm suggested based on artificial intelligence application of enhanced ACO is compared with the classical ACO algorithm using Cloudsim simulator. The results obtained after the experiments and simulation are very encouraging to adopt this technique.
Improving Node Localization Accuracy in Wireless Sensor Networks based on Computer Vision and Deep Learning Optimization
Authors: Yi Lianjun
Published: February 2025

In order to solve the problem of angular effects and reduced positioning accuracy caused by rapid speed changes in position tracking and positioning methods in wireless sensor networks, as well as the difficulty of improving positioning accuracy with a single solution, the author proposes a research on improving node positioning accuracy in wireless sensor networks based on computer vision and deep learning optimization. The author proposes a tracking and localization method using Kalman filtering (KF) and visual assistance on the TI CC2431 ZPS platform. On the basis of normalized cross-correlation, visual assistance calibration technology is used to extract the position of reference nodes as landmarks using visual assistance methods. Then, the KF method is used to calibrate the position estimation, which randomly generates virtual nodes for neural network training. Then, the priority positioning node is located and used as the anchor node for the next positioning, and the wireless loop is used for positioning calculation. The experimental results show that both the TI ZPS method and the KF based method have an estimated position error distance of over 55%, which is less than 2.2m and 1.8m, respectively, The proposed tracking and positioning method has an estimated position error distance of over 55% less than 1.4m. The method proposed by the author effectively avoids uncertainty caused by system errors in actual dynamic environments, reduces angular effects in position estimation systems, and improves positioning accuracy.
Stenogramy z norweskiego procesu vidkuna quislinga w 1945 roku jako źródło historyczne
Authors: Gawinecka-Woźniak Magda
Published: February 2025

Druga wojna światowa była przełomowym okresem w dziejach Norwegii, a jej symbolami stały tak skrajne postacie jak król Haakon VII, niestrudzony przeciwnik współpracy z Niemcami oraz kolaborujący z wrogiem Vidkun Quisling. Ten ostatni po zakończeniu wojny stanął przed sądem, co było efektem działań rządu norweskiego, zmierzających do ukarania zdrajców i wykorzenienie z Norwegii ruchu, który stworzył Quisling. Problematyka norweska nadal zajmuje marginalne miejsce w polskiej historiografii, a informacje o Quislingu sprowadzają się do ogólnikowych stwierdzeń. Niniejszy artykuł przybliża polskiemu czytelnikowi stenogramy z procesów Vidkuna Quislinga – Straffesak mot Vidkun Abraham Lauritz Jonssøn Quisling (Postępowanie karne przeciwko Vidkunowi Quislingowi), zawiera ocenę wartości stenogramów jako źródła historycznego oraz odtwarza na ich podstawie przebieg rozpraw sądowych przeciwko największemu norweskiemu zdrajcy. Publikacja czy też odniesienia do niej nie funkcjonują w polskim obiegu naukowym. Opublikowane stenogramy dotyczą dwóch procesów, jakie toczyły się przeciwko Quislingowi, tj. przed sądem apelacyjnym i Sądem Najwyższym. Zawierają one akt oskarżenia, oświadczenie oskarżonego, mowę obrońcy oraz przesłuchania świadków. Nie jest to wyłącznie transkrypcja rozpraw sądowych, ale publikacja uzupełniona dokumentami, do których odnosili się uczestnicy procesu, są wśród nich materiały pochodzące z archiwów norweskich i niemieckich. Straffesak to unikalny dokument z historii wojny w Norwegii, odznaczający się nie tylko skrupulatnością i dokładnością, ale przede wszystkim całościowym ujęciem zagadnienia. Treść stenogramów dostarcza czytelnikowi wielu informacji o przebiegu procesu. Pozwala zapoznać się z linią obrony przyjętą przez adwokata Quislinga, w pełni odsłania też poglądy samego oskarżonego. Lektura stenogramów przynosi również bardzo interesujący obraz Norwegii okresu okupacji.
Optimizing soil health: comparative effects of humic acid, PGPR, and RDF on soil properties and fertility
Authors: Bhatt Pooja , Singh V.K Singh , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: February 2025

Soil fertility and productivity can increase with the addition of organic fertilizer. The continuous cropping, long-term use of inorganic fertilizer, soil erosion, and overgrazing may lead to a decline in soil organic matter. Soil fertility can be enhanced by using organic substances such as humic acid (HA) and root-associated bacteria like plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). The study aimed to compare the impact of organic (HA and PGPR) and inorganic (RDF- Recommended dose of fertilizer) fertilizer on the soil’s physicochemical parameters during the winter seasons at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Pant Nagar in the year of 2020-21 and 2021-22. This study used a randomized block design (RBD) with ten treatments and three replicates. The contents of the treatments used are as follows: T1; Control (Only RDF), T2; HA- 2.5 kg/ha (soil application), T3; Seeds treated with HA -20 g/kg of soil), T4; seeds treated with PGPR - 20 g/kg of seed, T5; RDF (NPK mixture), T6; RDF + HA (soil application), T7; RDF +HA (seed treatment), T8; RDF +PGPR (Seed treatment), T9; HA (soil application) +PGPR (seed treatment), T10; RDF + HA (soil application) + PGPR (seed treatment). The results showed that T10 (RDF+ HA-soil application + PGPR) had the most significant impact on the soil’s particle density (PD), water retention, organic carbon content (OC), and accessible nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) content in the soil during both years of experiment. The detailed research concluded that applying humic acid, PGPR, and RDF positively improved soil properties.
Can Table Tennis Extend Lifespan? An Analysis of Its Impact on Physical Health, Brain Function, and Mental Well-being
Authors: Marta Patrycja , Ossolińska Agata , Huzarski Filip , Ferfecka Gabriela , Pawełek Klaudia , Stolarska Lucyna , Rosa-Bończak Magdalena , Morawiecka Natalia , Carlton Olivier , Weronika Kłosowicz
Published: February 2025

Introduction:In the context of an aging society, the importance of physical activity as a key element in supporting health and improving quality of life is growing. Table tennis, a sport played by millions worldwide, combines aerobic, coordination, and strategic exercises, making it unique in terms of its impact on physical and mental health.
Aim of the study:
Analyze the impact of regular table tennis play on life expectancy and physical, cognitive, and mental well-being.
Materials and Methods:
This analysis is based on a detailed review of studies and information related to table tennis, sourced from PubMed and Google Scholar databases.
Conclusions:
The literature review indicates that table tennis offers numerous health benefits, including improved body composition, enhanced coordination, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, and better motor functions. The sport stimulates cognitive functions such as reflexes, anticipation, and memory, with studies confirming its positive effects on individuals with Parkinson's disease, dementia, or mild cognitive impairment. Table tennis also enhances mental well-being by reducing stress levels and improving quality of life through social integration and satisfaction from the game. The collected data suggest that table tennis should be included in rehabilitation programs and health promotion activities for all age groups. Its universal accessibility and health benefits—physical, cognitive, and social—highlight its potential as a vital form of physical activity to address contemporary health challenges.
Analysis of poisoning with OTC drugs for suicidal purposes among children and adolescents in Poland in the period 2012 - 2023
Authors: Kubicka Maria , Polańska Paulina , Gruszka Marta , Zakrocka Martyna
Published: February 2025

Introduction and Purpose: Drug poisoning among children and adolescents is an increasing public health issue worldwide and in Poland. Intentional poisonings, especially suicide attempts, are on the rise, often involving over-the-counter (OTC) medications, with paracetamol being the most commonly used substance. This paper aims to analyze the prevalence, characteristics, and implications of drug poisonings in youth, focusing on social and mental health factors, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Materials and Methods: The study is based on retrospective data collected from Polish cities published between 2014 and 2023, examining hospital admissions, demographic trends, and poisoning agents.
Results: The study reveals a significant increase in suicide attempts, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Paracetamol poisoning remains the leading cause of intentional overdoses, with severe cases potentially resulting in acute liver failure or death if untreated. Girls account for a disproportionate number of cases, and many adolescents who attempt suicide lack prior psychiatric diagnoses. Seasonal trends and shifts in age demographics suggest changing patterns in poisoning incidents.
Conclusions: The findings emphasize the need for improved mental health education, early intervention, and caregiver awareness. Strengthening psychological support and implementing stricter regulation of OTC drugs are crucial to addressing the root causes of youth suicide attempts. Proactive measures, such as teaching problem-solving skills and expanding access to mental health services, are essential to mitigating this growing public health challenge.
PARP Inhibitors in the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zuzak Andrzej Paweł , Cieślik-Porębska Magdalena , Kułak Krzysztof , Niewiadomska Jagoda
Published: February 2025

Introduction
Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally due to late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. PARP inhibitors have shown promise as effective treatments for recurrent and various stages of ovarian cancer.
Aim of the Study
This study reviews the efficacy and application of PARP inhibitors in ovarian cancer treatment over the past 15 years, focusing on literature from the PubMed database post-2009 and considering FDA and EMA guidelines.
Review methods
A literature review was conducted using the PubMed database, focusing on studies published after 2009. The review also incorporated recommendations from the FDA and the European Medicines Agency regarding the use of PARP inhibitors in ovarian cancer treatment.
Results
The findings highlight the substantial impact of PARP inhibitors on ovarian cancer treatment, improving PFS and overall outcomes. Olaparib, niraparib, and rucaparib have become integral to ovarian cancer management, offering effective options for patients with BRCA mutations or homologous recombination deficiencies. These inhibitors have been validated in multiple clinical trials, underscoring their robustness and effectiveness. Combination therapies, such as olaparib with bevacizumab, further enhance therapeutic outcomes, showcasing the potential for synergistic effects.
Summary
PARP inhibitors represent a significant advancement in ovarian cancer treatment, offering improved survival outcomes for patients with specific genetic profiles. Their integration into standard care protocols underscores their importance and efficacy, providing valuable therapeutic options in the fight against ovarian cancer.
Key Words: PARP inhibitors, ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer treatment
Deep Brain Stimulation in the treatment of disorders of consciousness
Authors: Olszak Joanna , Zalewa Karolina , Bartoszek Lidia , Orłowska Dominika , Kapłan Wojciech , Poleszczuk Mikołaj , Poleszczuk Karol , Milewska Alicja , Czuba Anna , Kaus Marta
Published: February 2025

Introduction and Purpose 
Disorders of consciousness, such as the vegetative state (VS) and minimally conscious state (MCS), are significant neurological conditions where patients exhibit limited or no awareness of their surroundings. Despite advancements in medical care, treatment options for these conditions remain limited, and prognosis is often poor. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a promising therapeutic option, particularly for patients with MCS or severe brain injuries. This review explores the clinical applications, and outcomes of DBS in the treatment of disorders of consciousness. 
Material and Methods 
 A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the PubMed database, focusing on articles published up to the end of 2024. The search included the keywords "deep brain stimulation", "disorders of consciousness", "neuromodulation therapy", and " effectiveness" in various combinations. Relevant studies were selected based on criteria such as the effect of DBS in patients with disorders of consciousness. 
Results 
 Several studies have shown that DBS, particularly targeting regions such as the thalamus or subthalamicnucleus, can lead to improvements in consciousness levels, responsiveness to external stimuli, and interaction with the environment. In some cases, patients in MCS have exhibited improved awareness, motor responses, and even the ability to communicate. Key factors influencing outcomes include the timing of DBS application, the extent of brain injury, and the specific brain regions targeted. 
Conclusions 
DBS offers a novel and potentially effective treatment for patients with disorders of consciousness, especially those in a minimally conscious state. While the results are promising, more controlled and larger-scale clinical trials areneeded to better understand the long-term efficacy, optimal timing, and appropriate patient selection.
Physical activity and depression
Authors: Wojtasik Monika , Żak Katarzyna , Załóg Adam , Nowak Maria , Pietryszak Edyta , Kulej Wojciech , Szołtek Paulina , Pardela Rafał , Paruzel Marcel , Łęcka Martyna
Published: February 2025

This article aims to present the significance of physical activity as a key element in the prevention and therapy of depressive disorders. Through a review of the latest scientific research findings, the article focuses on the role of regular physical activity in reducing the risk of depressive disorders and its effectiveness in the therapeutic process. Various aspects of physical activity are analyzed, such as the type and intensity of training, their impact on neurobiological and psychosocial functions. The article discusses the benefits of physical activity, including mood improvement, reduction of depressive symptoms, and overall well-being enhancement. Furthermore, attention is drawn to the biological mechanisms that may underlie the positive impact of physical activity on mental health. In a therapeutic context, the article examines how physical activity can be an effective complement to traditional methods of treating depression, both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic. The importance of adapting training programs to individual needs and preferences of patients is also emphasized. As a result, the article provides a comprehensive overview of current knowledge regarding the role of physical activity in the prevention and therapy of depressive disorders, with the hope of inspiring further research and refining intervention strategies in the field of mental health.
"Quiero seguir en activo": Estrategias de mujeres que padecen fibromialgia para realizar actividades cotidianas básicas, instrumentales y avanzadas
Authors: Sanjuan-Sánchez Daniel , Climent-Sanz Carolina , Patiño-Vera María del Mar , Gea-Sánchez Montserrat , Rubí-Carnacea Francesc , Briones Vozmediano Erica
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: Los síntomas de la fibromialgia pueden limitar significativamente la capacidad de una persona para funcionar y participar en actividades cotidianas, como el trabajo. Explorar las percepciones de las pacientes sobre el impacto de los síntomas de la fibromialgia en su capacidad funcional puede aportar información valiosa sobre sus estrategias de afrontamiento y necesidades de permanecer activas. El objetivo de esta investigación es describir las estrategias y adaptaciones utilizadas por mujeres con fibromialgia para llevar a cabo las actividades básicas, instrumentales y avanzadas de la vida diaria.
Método: Estudio cualitativo basado en entrevistas personales a 25 mujeres diagnosticadas de fibromialgia. Se realizó un análisis temático siguiendo la clasificación de las actividades de la vida diaria en básicas (movimiento y desplazamiento, higiene personal y vestirse), instrumentales (limpieza, tareas domésticas y compras) y avanzadas (trabajo). 
Resultados: Debido al impacto funcional de los síntomas en todas las actividades de la vida diaria, las mujeres con fibromialgia introdujeron diferentes estrategias compensatorias, productos de apoyo y modificaciones en el entorno o la tarea, para aumentar su nivel de competencia en el trabajo. Introducir adaptaciones en el espacio público es un reto y el trabajo una fuente de angustia, ya sea por su desaparición o por el esfuerzo que supone llevarlo a cabo satisfactoriamente.
Conclusiones: Los profesionales sanitarios que atienden a mujeres con fibromialgia deben reconocer el impacto de la fibromialgia en la funcionalidad de las pacientes y emplear estrategias para mejorar su adaptación, así como facilitar la valoración de la incapacidad laboral.
Estudio Bibliométrico y Mapa de Redes del Tecnoestrés Docente entre 1992-2022
Authors: Louzán Mariño Rita
Published: February 2025

Entrevista con Rita Louzán
‘It would probably do more harm than good’: mental health nurses' experiences of nondisclosure within individual clinical supervision
Authors: Farley Stuart , Karwatzki Emma , Mason Barbara
Published: February 2025

Background/Aims

Negative attitudes towards clinical supervision among nurses is a concern given the potential impact on safe and effective practice. This study aimed to explore mental health nurses' perspectives of clinical supervision and nondisclosure in this setting.

Methods

For the purposes of the research, nondisclosure was defined as the intentional withholding of information within supervision. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 mental health nurses about their experiences of nondisclosure in supervision. Qualitative findings were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Five main themes were identified from the interviews: the expectation to be superhuman, being part of a team, a poorly defined space, feeling relationally unsafe and strategies to stay safe. These themes operated on individual, clinical supervision and cultural levels. The findings highlight a need for clinical supervision spaces that are regular, structured, clearly defined, predictable and safe.

Conclusions

The findings highlight a need for clinical supervision spaces that are regular, structured, clearly defined, predictable and safe. Effective clinical supervision is crucial for retaining well-supported practitioners and maintaining safe, accountable care.
Hippophae rhamnoides L. leaf extract augments dermal wound healing in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Upadhyay Nitin K , Keshri Gaurav K , Gupta Asheesh
Published: February 2025

Objective:

The present investigation was undertaken to determine the healing efficacy of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (sea buckthorn (SBT)) leaf aqueous lyophilised extract (SBTL-ALE) on a diabetic wound model in rats. The effect of SBTL-ALE was also evaluated on human epithelial cell lines (A431) by using in vitro wound closure and transwell migration assays.

Method:

A total of four full-thickness excision-type wounds were created on the dorsal surface of streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. The animals were divided into two groups: control rats treated with soft white petroleum jelly and experimental rats treated with SBTL-ALE (5.0%, weight/weight) ointment applied topically, twice daily for seven days.

Results:

SBTL-ALE significantly (p<0.05) accelerated the migration of epithelial cells in in vitro wound closure and transwell migration assays. Further, SBTL-ALE augmented the healing process by significantly (p<0.05) enhanced wound area contraction, faster complete epithelial closure, increased hydroxyproline (collagen) and hexosamine levels in diabetic rats. Histopathological findings confirmed the healing potential of SBTL-ALE. Immunohistochemical analyses showed increased expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and α-smooth muscle actin in SBTL-ALE-treated wounds of diabetic rats. Superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione levels increased, whereas reactive oxygen levels were decreased significantly (p<0.05) in SBTL-ALE-treated wounds compared to diabetic controls, which conferred redox homeostasis.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that SBTL-ALE accelerated transdermal wound healing in diabetic rats by increasing the rate of wound contraction, enhancing levels of collagen, hexosamine and endogenous antioxidants, and reducing oxidative stress.
Ulcerated tophaceous gout of the foot: a case report and retrospective chart review
Authors: Iglesias-Girard Laura , Lafleur-Careau Justine , Patry Jérôme
Published: February 2025

Ulcerated tophaceous gout is an uncommon presentation of the lower limbs. Treatment of these wounds can be a challenge, as their optimal management remains to be determined. Therefore, a retrospective analysis of medical charts between 2015 and 2021 was conducted at a wound clinic of a university-affiliated hospital to determine the characteristics of patients treated for tophaceous wounds, their evolution and treatment. We report a total of five patients with ulcerated tophaceous gout of the foot who initially presented predominantly with soft tissue infection or osteomyelitis. All progressed well with local wound care, including conservative sharp debridement of the tophi and rapid initiation of urate-lowering therapy. Therefore, a diagnosis of tophi should be considered in an ulceration of the first metatarsophalangeal joint or other toes when whitish-chalky material is present, even if the patient was not previously known to have gout. Tophi ulceration is a rare complication; however, prompt diagnosis and management are important to avoid destruction of the underlying bone structures.