bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The place and role of international organizations in the system of international relations
Authors: Volovikov Arsen
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study is to identify the role of international organizations in the modern system of international relations and to determine the factors that influence their ability to act as fully-fledged subjects of world politics. To achieve this goal, a comprehensive methodological approach was applied, involving a combination of theoretical-comparative analysis (neorealism, liberalism, constructivism, Marxism) and examination of specific institutions. The research also draws on neo-institutional and sociological institutional perspectives, which make it possible to take into account not only the formal rules and interests of states but also bureaucratic culture, normative practices, and mechanisms of social influence within international organizations. As a result of the study, it was established that a high level of bureaucratic professionalism and the availability of their own resources enable some international organizations to push beyond the boundaries set by nation-states, thereby acquiring significant freedom of action. However, when subject to overwhelming control by member states, these organizations lose their actual independence, turning into instruments for pursuing narrow national goals. Practical findings indicate that even with the formal enshrinement of the subjectivity of international organizations, their real autonomy remains in question and largely depends on the balance of interests among states, bureaucratic structures, and transnational actors. A «neutrality threshold» was also identified: organizations maintain their impartiality and the trust of the international community only if they possess sufficient institutional resilience and resource independence. Finally, delegating authority to international organizations can enhance their subjectivity; however, states often limit this freedom through mechanisms of political and financial control. The theoretical significance of the work lies in refining the concept of the «autonomy of international organizations» within different paradigms, while the practical significance lies in the possibility of taking into account the identified factors that constrain the sovereign space of organizations when developing and reforming mechanisms of global governance.
Achilles Tendon Rupture In Recreational Athletes - Hobby-Ending Incident or Easily Treatable Injury? Current Insight Into Risk Factors, Treatment Options and Recovery Strategies
Authors: Kędzia Jakub , Duda Joanna , Racisz Kinga , Racisz Paweł , Obcowska Alicja , Walendzik Aleksandra , Sencerek Łukasz
Published: February 2025

Introduction and aim of study: Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is a significant injury, particularly for athletes. If not managed properly, it can lead to complications and hinder athletic performance. This study aims to synthesize existing knowledge on risk factors, treatment, and recovery associated with ATR, helping identify the optimal treatment pathway for a prompt return to sports. It will also highlight prevalent risk factors, aiding in injury prevention for patients and healthcare professionals.
Materials and methods: This literature review summarizes data from PubMed, Google Scholar, and other scientific sources on ATR. Key search terms included “Achilles tendon rupture treatment,” “risk factors,” “Achilles tendon injuries,” and “physiotherapy in ATR.”
Results: Various risk factors for ATR were identified, with some later proven irrelevant, while others remained significant. Treatment options include both non-operative and operative management, with minimally invasive techniques showing the best outcomes, however each method can be employed in specific indications. The recovery period typically lasts around six months, with rehabilitation being a key component. Other alternative methods and their benefits are being explored.
Conclusion: Optimal outcomes for ATR treatment are achieved through operative intervention, particularly minimally invasive surgery, paired with early rehabilitation. Physical therapy, blood-flow restriction training, and stretching can aid return to sport. Considering risk factors in all patients, especially athletes in contact sports, is crucial. The correct management of Achilles tendon rupture, consisting of early diagnosis, surgical treatment and appropriate rehabilitation, allows recreational athletes to return to their previous sports with a level of performance similar to that prior to the injury.
Citrulline – The Powerhouse Nutrient for Cardiometabolic and Brain Health
Authors: Pedrycz Daria , Drabczyk Mateusz , Pedrycz Emilia , Karoń Karolina , Drapała Grzegorz , Grabowski Wojciech , Karoń Łukasz , Zygmunt Anna , Karoń Sławomir
Published: February 2025

Citrulline, a non-essential amino acid and precursor to L-arginine, plays a pivotal role in nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, with profound implications for vascular health and neuroprotection. By enhancing NO production, citrulline supports endothelial function, vasodilation, and cerebral circulation, thereby mitigating cognitive decline associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Unlike direct arginine supplementation, citrulline offers superior bioavailability, bypassing first-pass metabolism and achieving sustained plasma levels of arginine. Furthermore, citrulline's antioxidant properties counteract oxidative stress by modulating reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing lipid peroxidation, and protecting neuronal integrity. Emerging evidence suggests its potential in delaying endothelial senescence and preventing ferroptosis, establishing its role in vascular and neuroprotective strategies. Dietary sources, such as watermelon juice, further enhance citrulline’s accessibility, combining its bioactivity with additional antioxidants like lycopene. While existing studies underscore its promise, targeted research is needed to confirm its direct impact on cognitive function and explore its application in neurodegenerative populations. This review synthesizes current knowledge on citrulline's mechanisms, therapeutic potential, and broader implications for aging and vascular health.
Fighting Alzheimer’s with Movement: The Role of Physical Activity in Disease Management
Authors: Kosińska Agnieszka , Balwierz Magdalena , Kalinowska Karolina , Świrk Urszula , Karczmarz Jan , Orzechowska Joanna , Gutowska Marika , Orzechowski Michał , Paprocka Aleksandra , Fijałek Paulina
Published: February 2025

Introduction and purpose
This article investigates the role of physical activity in Alzheimer's disease. It reviews existing research to explore how exercise affects cognitive decline, identifies mechanisms through which physical activity may slow disease progression, and evaluates practical recommendations for integrating exercise into Alzheimer's management. The goal is to provide valuable insights for individuals and healthcare professionals on using physical activity as a non-pharmacological approach to managing Alzheimer's disease.
State of knowledge
The article examines the current literature on Alzheimer's disease, with a focus on the effects of physical activity on cognitive function. By understanding the relationship between exercise and brain health, targeted interventions can be developed to slow cognitive decline. The impact of physical activity on overall Alzheimer's disease progression is also highlighted.
Material and MethodsA review of literature from 2009 to 2024 was conducted using databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Keywords included "Alzheimer's disease," "physical activity," "cognitive decline," and "exercise." The review focused on English-language primary research articles from peer-reviewed journals.
SummaryThe review underscores the positive effects of physical activity in managing Alzheimer's disease. Evidence suggests that regular exercise helps improve cognitive function, slow disease progression, and enhance overall quality of life. This highlights the effectiveness of physical activity as a valuable, non-pharmacological approach to managing Alzheimer's.
Conocimientos y hábitos en finanzas personales de los universitarios del programa de Administración de Empresas de la Universidad Surcolombiana
Authors: Calderón Barrera Lilia Socorro , Rengifo Gónzalez Maber , Quiroz Cabrera Jaime Eduardo
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: determinar los conocimientos y hábitos en finanzas personales (FP) de los estudiantes del programa de Administración de Empresas de la Universidad Surcolombiana en la sede de Garzón (Huila, Colombia). Metodología: se empleó un enfoque mixto, con alcance descriptivo, un diseño no experimental transeccional descriptivo y teoría fundamentada para crear el modelo de FP. El análisis estadístico se realizó con el software Statgraphics Centurion XVI, con un nivel de significancia inferior a 0.05. Se utilizó un cuestionario de 84 preguntas, validado por expertos, a una muestra de 175 estudiantes matriculados entre el 2019 y el 2023, con una población de 319 estudiantes, un margen de error del 5 % y un nivel de confianza del 95 %. Resultados principales: en promedio, el 44.78 % de los estudiantes aprobaron la prueba de conocimientos, y el 51.69 %, el test de hábitos. Ello indica que más de la mitad de los encuestados tiene falencias en cuanto a conocimientos y hábitos en FP.  Conclusiones: los estudiantes requieren potenciar sus conocimientos y hábitos en materia de FP,liderados desde el Ministerio de Educación Nacional, las instituciones educativas públicas y privadas, además de incluir esta asignatura de manera transversal en los currículos.
“Cumpliendo con mi oficio”: del entusiasmo por el trabajo a la ciencia de la felicidad (Medellín, 1912-2007)
Authors: Castaño González Eugenio
Published: February 2025

Este libro es una suerte de refugio necesario para poner en orden algunas ideas en torno a una realidad paradójicamente sobrecogedora en la esfera cotidiana, pero igualmente inadvertida como objeto de reflexión académica. Con esta forma particular y solitaria de evasión de una vorágine laboral que ha avasallado por años al autor, se ha pretendido descorrer el velo de una singular verdad construida sobre el imperativo de la felicidad en la esfera del trabajo de Medellín. Se trata de entrever el irresistible trasegar histórico de cierta pedagogía que, valiéndose de disciplinas como la medicina, la psiquiatría, la psicología, la ingeniería y la administración, entre otras, se ha propuesto impulsar un conjunto de conductas, estados emocionales positivos y socialmente aceptados. Así, esta obra también puede ser vista como la denodada expresión de un ocioso itinerante, consumado y no del todo satisfecho con sus ocupaciones diarias. Es también un ejercicio personal, aunque de carácter académico, dirigido a diseccionar las racionalidades, es decir, los modos de organizar y los medios desplegados para obtener un fin determinado, que han operado detrás del trabajo motivado, satisfactorio y feliz.
ANÁLISE DA INFLUÊNCIA DAS FEIÇÕES ESTRUTURAIS DA FORMAÇÃO SERRA GERAL NA DISPONIBILIDADE HÍDRICA SUBTERRÂNEA DO SISTEMA AQUÍFERO SERRA GERAL
Authors: Johann Nery Bianca , Mancuso Malva Andrea , Emiliano Santos Caroline
Published: February 2025

Mapeamento de áreas visando o potencial de produção hídrica subterrânea, subsidia políticas públicas que atendem o Objetivo de Desenvolvimento Sustentável 6 proposto pela ONU: disponibilidade e gestão sustentável da água para todos. Atendendo ao objetivo, este estudo buscou definir áreas hídricas potenciais de abastecimento subterrâneo, no âmbito da Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio da Várzea, avaliando a produtividade dos poços (capacidade específica) e a sua relação com os elementos geológico-estruturais da Formação Serra Geral: tipo de rocha; tipo de aquífero; espessura de solo; direção de lineamentos; intersecção entre lineamentos; e densidade de lineamentos. Os resultados indicam maior capacidade específica em poços sob as Fáceis Paranapanema, sob o Sistema Aquífero Serra Geral I e sob solos com espessura intermediária. Lineamentos nas direções SE-SSE e E-ESE apresentaram correlação proporcional entre a maior capacidade específica e a maior densidade de lineamentos. A análise de intersecções de lineamentos não apresentou significância, com exceção da maior classe de densidade (>0,1/km2). As direções de lineamentos com poços a menos de 1 km de distância, com maior capacidade específica, foram: ESE-SE e NE- ENE.
INDICADOR DE VULNERABILIDADE AO CARREAMENTO DE SEDIMENTOS INTEGRADO AO SIG E SR
Authors: Arantes Leticia Tondato , Santos Arthur Pereira dos , Silva Darllan Collins da Cunha e , Lourenço Roberto Wagner
Published: February 2025

A erosão do solo constitui um dos principais problemas de degradação ambiental, o qual resulta em uma série de impactos negativos a paisagem e a vida humana. Nesse sentido, as áreas de preservação permanente (APP) assumem grande importância na proteção dos cursos d´água, frente a crescente pressão sobre os recursos naturais. Assim, tem-se como objetivo elaborar um indicador denominado “indicador de vulnerabilidade ao carreamento de sedimentos (IVCS)” visando avaliar o risco do carreamento de sedimentos proveniente dos processos erosivos para os corpos hídricos das sub-bacias do Rio Sorocabuçu, localizado no estado de São Paulo. Os resultados mostram que a BHRS apresenta um valor médio de perda de solos que a insere na classe “baixa”, sendo o fator topográfico (LS) o que mais exerceu influência, uma vez que maiores níveis de perdas de solos estão localizados justamente nas áreas que apresentaram maior declividade. No que diz respeito ao IVCS, a sub-bacia 8 resultou no maior valor (0,32), indicando ser a sub-bacia com maior risco ao carreamento de sedimentos para os cursos d´água, justificado pela apresentar o maior valor médio de perda de solos e maiores proporções de áreas de conflitos nas APP, requerendo maior atenção, em contrapartida, a sub-bacia 9 resultou no melhor valor (0,13), dado que ela possui maiores níveis de mata ciliar preservada. Por fim, os dados obtidos nesse trabalho colaboram na identificação das sub-bacias mais vulneráveis ao carreamento de sedimentos, fornecendo subsídios para os órgãos gestores no estabelecimento de medidas que visem a preservação dos recursos hídricos.
A A REALIDADE DA FRONTEIRA:
Authors: Simoni Santos Cesar
Published: February 2025

Pertencente ao município de Humaitá-AM, o distrito de Realidade, hoje, é uma das nucleações dinâmicas mais avançadas, em termos de posição territorial, da fronteira sul-amazônica. Empurrada pelo agronegócio e pela agricultura mecanizada e de alta tecnologia, são em áreas como essa que os pequenos agricultores, os migrantes, os madeireiros, pequenos e médios pecuaristas, comerciantes (aventureiros e visionários), falsificadores e estelionatários, entre outros, fornecem as condições materiais para a expansão do ecúmeno primário-exportador do capitalismo em território brasileiro. Atualmente, no entanto, o desbravamento do território envolve também o enfrentamento da legislação ambiental e essa conjuntura coloca em posição de maior vulnerabilidade os trabalhadores sem vínculo formal que realizam boa parte do serviço de abertura da mata. Correlato a isso, um modo de operação do poder público se solidariza com o universo de ações aparentemente desconcertadas que resultam no moto-contínuo de avanço da fronteira. É a constatação dessa premissa operante no âmbito da política pública que permite considerar a expansão da fronteira como um projeto do Estado brasileiro.
CLUSTERS, ARRANJOS PRODUTIVOS LOCAIS E CIRCUITOS DE TURISMO:
Authors: TOMAZZONI EDEGAR LUIS , LACERDA PAULO HENRIQUE FERREIRA , EMMENDOERFER MAGNUS LUIZ
Published: February 2025

Este artigo busca analisar a produção científica brasileira enfocando configurações territoriais no contexto do turismo, como clusters, arranjos produtivos locais (APLs) e circuitos turísticos. O método utilizado foi uma Revisão Integrativa da Literatura (RIL), abrangendo artigos selecionados de bases como Scielo e Periódicos Capes, publicados antes da pandemia (SARS COVID-19) que afetou os sistemas produtivos em escala global incluindo o turismo. O estudo destaca que a produção acadêmica sobre turismo se concentra nas regiões Sudeste e Sul do Brasil. As principais contribuições incluem revelar a importância tanto da cooperação e competitividade entre os atores locais, quanto da governança e das políticas públicas para fortalecer as configurações territoriais. Os clusters são descritos como concentrações geográficas de empreendimentos que competem e cooperam para melhorar a competitividade, enquanto os APLs valorizam as pequenas empresas como protagonistas do desenvolvimento local envolvendo diferentes formas de turismo. Já os circuitos turísticos são apontados como inovação articulada com políticas públicas para o desenvolvimento turístico regional. Apesar das vantagens apontadas, como a redução das ameaças externas e a criação de sinergias, os estudos também identificam desafios que precisarão ser retomados e possivelmente repensados em uma sociedade pós-pandêmica.
HISTÓRIAS DA GEOGRAFIA HUMANISTA NO BRASIL:
Authors: SOARES FAGNO
Published: February 2025

Entrevista realizada em 29 de maio de 2023, com o geógrafo humanista brasileiro, Eduardo Marandola Jr., professor da Faculdade de Ciências Aplicadas da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp/Campus Limeira). Durante a entrevista, Eduardo Marandola Jr. tratou brevemente, de sua trajetória pessoal e de como a Geografia Humanista o alcançou. Realizou reflexões sobre o ofício do geógrafo humanista no século XXI, passando pelo temário dos estudos de Percepção do Meio Ambiente até o processo de fortalecimento dos estudos em Geografia Humanista e dos primeiros impactos causados pela abordagem fenomenológica na produção geográfica brasileira. Por fim, falou particularmente da contribuição dos geógrafos Yi-Fu Tuan e Lívia de Oliveira na chegada, difusão e consolidação dos estudos fenomenológicos na geografia brasileira.
Palavras-chaves: Geografia Humanista. Percepção. Espaço. Lugar.
EFEITOS DA IMPLEMENTAÇÃO DA REFORMA DO ENSINO MÉDIO SOBRE O ENSINO DE GEOGRAFIA:
Authors: Girotto Eduardo Donizeti
Published: February 2025

O artigo tem como principal objetivo analisar os possíveis impactos da implementação da reforma do ensino médio sobre o ensino da geografia a partir da percepção de docentes desta disciplina que atuam em diferentes redes de ensino no estado de São Paulo. Para tanto, foram entrevistados 12 docentes de geografia atuando em escolas de ensino médio no Estado de São Paulo, com diferentes características pessoais e profissionais. Os resultados indicam uma visão negativa dos docentes sobre os efeitos da reforma sobre o trabalho docente em geografia, sendo mais intensa esta percepção entre aqueles que atuam na rede estadual de ensino de São Paulo e menos entre aquelas em atuação em escolas privadas destinadas às classes A e B. No caso dos docentes da rede estadual paulista, a visão negativa da reforma se articula com a forma como a mesma vem sendo implementada na rede, sem a participação dos professores, e está também relacionada com os efeitos já sentidos pelos docentes, em especial, vinculados a perda de autonomia sobre os conteúdos e processos de ensino-aprendizagem em decorrência da ampliação do controle, excesso de burocracia e padronização dos materiais didáticos.
UM MAPA DE ORIENTAÇÃO AO VISITANTE EM AMBIENTES NATURAIS
Authors: Fiori Sergio Ricardo , Martins Jéssica Silva , Rodrigues Vítor Alexandre Santos
Published: February 2025

Em decorrência do processo acelerado de urbanização e da diminuição gradativa das áreas verdes nas cidades, os ambientes naturais se tornam cada vez mais valorizados pela sociedade contemporânea, especialmente aqueles relacionados às práticas sociais do lazer e turismo. Nesse contexto, o Parque Natural Municipal de Nova Iguaçu (PNMNI) se estabelece como uma Unidade de Conservação integral aberta à visitação, oferecendo diversos atrativos, como poços d’água, cachoeiras, mirantes, observação de pássaros e trilhas. Nesse sentido, este artigo apresenta uma proposta teórico-metodológica para o desenvolvimento de mapas de orientação ao visitante em ambientes naturais. A partir de uma fundamentação teórica que considera os aspectos essenciais de um mapa de orientação ao visitante (meio de informação, meio de divulgação e consumido por pessoas potencialmente leigas na semântica cartográfica) e os seis elementos gráfico-cartográficos que compõem um mapa para o lazer e turismo (título, escala, legenda, sistema de referências, fonte, moldura), criou-se um produto cartográfico para o PNMNI em três etapas distintas: estudo e representação da área do parque, associado ao trabalho concomitante de três legendas: geral, turística e uma específica para trilhas. Assim, este trabalho, realizado em parceria entre a prefeitura de Nova Iguaçu e o Instituto Multidisciplinar da Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, resulta na produção de um mapa temático que representa os elementos espaciais presentes no ambiente natural, especificadamente em parques, tendo como público-alvo potencial o visitante em momentos de lazer e turismo.
Hypertension: role of the healthcare assistant in treatment and management
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: February 2025

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, has been described as the ‘silent killer’. Around 75000 people in the UK die each year as a result of hypertension and it causes more than half of all strokes and heart attacks. Hypertension increases the risk of heart disease, kidney disease and vascular dementia. This article outlines how the healthcare assistant can help to identify people with hypertension and promote healthy habits that can treat the condition. It explores the healthcare assistant's role in identifying the adverse effects of medication and working with the patient and healthcare team to ensure that hypertension is treated effectively.
End-of-life care: emotional and physical wellbeing
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: February 2025

End-of-life care presents unique emotional and physical challenges for healthcare assistants and assistant practitioners who play an important role in supporting patients through their final stages of life. This article discusses the significance of self-care for healthcare assistants and emphasises the importance of maintaining emotional resilience, managing stress and preventing burnout. It highlights practical strategies for self-care, including reflective practices, debriefing sessions and peer or supervisory support. The article also discusses the need for organisational structures that promote the wellbeing of healthcare assistants to ensure that they are able to provide compassionate and person-centred care without compromising their own health.
Patient and staff wellbeing in maternity services
Authors: Parks Pauline
Published: February 2025

This article explains the importance of patient wellbeing in maternity care and the role of the maternity support worker in providing person-centred care. Maternity support workers benefit from undertaking the care certificate and in-house training provided by the mental health and safeguarding team. This helps them to promote and protect the wellbeing of mothers. Support workers in maternity wards also witness stressful situations which can affect their mental health. The author emphasises the importance for support workers to understand the impact of these experiences and adopt practices to improve their wellbeing.
The care certificate: awareness of mental health, dementia and learning disability
Authors: Ellis Peter
Published: February 2025

This article, the ninth in the series about the care certificate, will explore the meaning of the standard ‘awareness of mental health, dementia and learning disability’ and consider what this requires of the healthcare assistant.
IBD nurses for patients with Crohn's and colitis
Authors: Younge Lisa
Published: February 2025

In this article, Lisa Younge from Crohn's & Colitis UK discusses the current picture for patients with inflammatory bowel disease in the UK, and the role of primary care clinicians in diagnosis and management of the condition
Opioid stewardship
Authors: Robertson Deborah
Published: February 2025

Deborah Robertson provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to non-medical prescribers. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided
Membrane optomechanical magnetometer
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Du Simin , Yang Shiwei , Wang Quansen , Li Yongmin
Published: February 2025

We demonstrate an optomechanical magnetometer where a high-Q membrane mechanical resonator responds to the magnetic-field-induced deformations of two magnetostrictive materials and is monitored by a two-beam Fabry-Perot cavity. The magnetometer enables simultaneous measurements of DC and AC magnetic fields and can recognize the direction of a two-dimensional DC magnetic field by demodulating the frequency shifts of two nondegenerate modes of the membrane. Benefiting from the two-beam interference and high-Q mechanical resonance, this device does not suffer from the linewidth and polarization fluctuation of the probe light as the reported counterparts, overcoming the dependence of optomechanical magnetometers on ultranarrow-linewidth laser and high-Q optical cavity with frequency locking equipment. This work opens a new avenue for measurements of weak magnetic fields.
Preserving Optics Heritage at the University of Franche-Comté
Authors: M. Dudley John , Froehly Luc , Salvi Jerome , Verschueren Pierre , Jacquot Maxime
Published: February 2025

An effort to safeguard the legacy of optics includes a museum of historical instruments, some dating to 1845.
Evaluation of a novel point-of-care lateral flow assay screening for Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection among pregnant women in Zimbabwe
Authors: Martin Kevin , Dauya Ethel , Dziva Chikwari Chido , Mackworth-Young Constance R. S. , Simms Victoria , Bandason Tsitsi , Makamure Beauty , Martin Janice , Makoga Forget , Machiha Anna , Peters Remco P. H. , Mazzola Laura T. , Blumel Benjamin , Gleeson Birgitta , Marks Michael , Kranzer Katharina , Ferrand Rashida A. , Ferreyra Cecilia
Published: February 2025

Affordable, easy-to-use and rapid diagnostics may support a move away from syndromic management for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in resource-constrained settings. A lateral flow assay for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG-LFA) has shown high sensitivity and specificity (>90%) in symptomatic individuals. We investigated the performance and acceptability of this assay as a screening tool for NG among pregnant women. This evaluation was embedded within a prospective study evaluating point-of-care STI screening in pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in Harare, Zimbabwe. Participants were included regardless of symptom status, ANC visit number, or gestational age. Nurse-collected vaginal swabs were tested on-site using the NG-LFA and the Xpert CT/NG assay (Xpert) (reference test). The implementation team members (n=4) were interviewed to assess acceptability and usability of NG-LFA. Of 912 participants, 4.8% (44/912) self-reported presence of abnormal vaginal discharge. Xpert NG prevalence was 4.2% (38/912); 81.6% (31/38) of infections were asymptomatic. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value (NPV) of the NG-LFA were 65.8% (25/38; 95% CI 48.6%–80.4%), 99.2% (867/874; 95% CI 98.4–99.7%), 78.1% (25/32; 95% CI 60.0-90.7%), and 98.5% (867/880; 95% CI 97.5-99.2%). The NG-LFA was considered easy-to-use and interpret but discordant results led to issues of trust in the NG-LFA results. Among predominantly asymptomatic pregnant women, the NG-LFA had high specificity, but relatively low sensitivity meaning one in three cases of gonorrhoea were not detected. Further studies are warranted to assess the clinical performance and cost-effectiveness of the NG-LFA in other settings and populations.
Cross-cultural adaptation of mental health screening instruments for Samoan adolescents
Authors: Mew Emma J. , Lowe Sarah R. , Galea’i Ariel , Iopu Francine , Anderson Jean , Naseri Joshua , Hunt Leiema , Mulitalo-Cheung Tamari , Fauolo-Manila Okenaisa , Soliai-Lemusu Si’itia , Hawley Nicola L. , McCutchan-Tofaeono Jueta
Published: February 2025

Mental health problems appear common among Pacific Islander adolescents. The lack of culturally adapted mental health screening instruments is a barrier to establishing prevalence estimates needed to inform resource allocation and health system budgeting. Following the Gjersing et al. (2010) guidelines, we adapted five clinical mental health screening instruments to measure symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and suicide-related indicators for Samoan adolescents. In collaboration with clinical experts and American Samoan adolescents, we employed a four-stage incremental approach: (1) establishing expert team consensus to modify items for conceptual equivalence; (2) an iterative process of group-based forward- and back-translations; (3) adolescent piloting testing using an online survey; and (4) an adolescent focus group to finalize instruments and to develop administrative guidelines. We adapted the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Modified for Teens (PHQ-9M), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7), Child PTSD Symptom Scale Self-Report for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (CPSS-5), and the CPSS-5 Trauma Screener. We also developed a deliberate self-harm questionnaire based on the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) questionnaire and the Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview (SITBI). The adult expert committee modified the English-language wordings in each tool to improve local relevance and comprehension; adolescent pretesting led to two minor changes to the CPSS-5. Participants reported concerns about honesty in responding to highly sensitive questions; to address this, the focus group provided additional administrative guidelines. We provide the first cross-culturally adapted mental health screening instruments for use among Samoan adolescents. These instruments provide an opportunity to measure prevalence and inform public health policy through future population-based surveys. Further research should evaluate cross-cultural validity, measurement equivalence, and concordance with clinical screening to aid in clinical diagnostics for screening programs in Samoan healthcare settings.
Layout optimization of multi-level cold chain storage facilities in agricultural producing areas considering type and capacity constraints
Authors: Huang Qian , Zheng Guijun , Pan Shuangli , Liao Huiyu , Jiang Zehua
Published: February 2025

The effective circulation of fresh agricultural products is conducive to increasing farmers’ income and improving the living standards of urban residents. Cold chain storage facilities in agricultural producing areas play an important role in ensuring the quality of agricultural products, extending the freshness period of goods, and improving logistics efficiency. Different types of fresh produce have different requirements for refrigeration and often require transshipment due to quantity constraints. In addition, there are economies of scale in the construction and operation of cold chain storage facilities. Based on the above considerations, with the aim of minimizing the total daily cost, an optimization model for the layout of multi-level cold chain storage facilities is established to determine the number, location, type and capacity of cold chain storage facilities at the same time. Genetic algorithm is chosen to solve the model according to the characteristics of the model. Taking J County of China as an example, the model is proved to have strong operability and applicability. It is of guiding significance and reference value to optimize the layout of cold chain storage facilities in rural areas.
Individual differences in associative/semantic priming: Spreading of activation in semantic memory and epistemically unwarranted beliefs
Authors: Huete-Pérez Daniel , Davies Robert , Rodríguez-Ferreiro Javier , Ferré Pilar
Published: February 2025

Starting from the enhanced spreading of activation through semantic memory (one of the explanatory mechanisms attempting to explain some manifestations observed in schizophrenia) and the psychosis continuum (a dimensional approach to psychotic disorders, where ‘normality’ and ‘psychopathology’ are not qualitatively different in nature but placed on varying levels of the same continuum), the main aim of the present research was to explore whether there are individual differences in associative/semantic priming in people with different levels of epistemically unwarranted beliefs (EUB). Participants varying in paranormal, pseudoscientific and conspiracy endorsement completed a primed lexical decision task containing related prime-target words (e.g., bulb-light) and unrelated prime-target words (e.g., sock-light). Bayesian linear mixed-effects models over response times (RTs) revealed a main direct priming effect (faster RTs in related pairs than in unrelated ones), a main facilitatory effect for some EUB scores (i.e., the higher the value for EUB score, the faster RTs), and an interactive effect between the experimental manipulation and some EUB scores (the higher the EUB score, the smaller the direct priming effect). These results are consistent with predictions made from the enhanced spreading of activation explanatory mechanism, but other alternative accounts are also discussed.
Fractal perspective of superquadratic functions with generalized probability estimations
Authors: Butt Saad Ihsan , Khan Dawood , Seol Youngsoo
Published: February 2025

This study introduces for the first time a class of generalized superquadratic functions specifically on fractal sets and explores their unique features. The research develops several generalized inequalities, including Jensen’s, converse Jensen’s, Mercer Jensen’s and Hermite-Hadamard’s inequalities based on the properties of generalized superquadratic functions. The findings are confirmed through reduced results, numerical calculations and graphical depictions, ensuring the robustness and accuracy of the proposed inequalities by taking into account several appropriate examples. A detailed comparative analysis between inequalities derived from generalized superquadratic functions and those from generalized convex functions, highlighting the greater refinement provided by the generalized superquadratic functions. The study enhances its findings with practical applications in probability expectations and special means in fractal space, demonstrating the applicability and relevance of the new results in these domains. The new results presented in this work provide significant extensions and improvements over existing literature, showcasing advancements and potential for further research in the field.
Detection of hepatitis B virus mRNA from single cell RNA sequencing data without prior knowledge
Authors: Van Renne Nicolaas , Vanwolleghem Thomas
Published: February 2025

The ability to detect microbial reads from sequencing data has significantly advanced microbiome and infectious disease research. Recently, INVADEseq introduced a technique to extract microbial reads from single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data following 16S rRNA amplification. We hypothesized that this approach could be leveraged to detect viruses in eukaryotic cells without such amplification or prior knowledge, provided they produce viral mRNAs containing poly-A tails. To test this, we aimed to detect Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) reads from liver samples of patients with chronic HBV infection, both with and without HBsAg loss. We successfully detected HBV reads in the liver of viraemic patients, predominantly in hepatocytes and, to a lesser extent, in Kupffer cells. Functionally cured HBV patients with HBsAg loss had undetectable HBV mRNA in the liver. This study demonstrates the ability to extract and identify viral reads from scRNA-seq data without prior knowledge and without specific amplification. This approach can be used for screening scRNA-seq data for the presence of viral reads at single-cell resolution, potentially enhancing our understanding of the cellular distribution of viruses and virus-host interactions.
A study of high-speed train delays and relevant propagation influence characteristics
Authors: Qin Jingyi , Zhang Jun , Wu Shuyao , Deng Shejun
Published: February 2025

Faced with the complex and diversified disturbances of abnormal events in high-speed railway, studying the characteristics of delay scenario parameters and related propagation influence laws plays a fundamental role in analyzing the applicability of operation plans, formulating train operation adjustments, and evaluating the operation decision plans, as well as providing practical data support for the establishment of theoretical models. Based on the mechanical analysis of the primary and knock-on delays, this paper combines the daily safety information data and timetable data, and takes into account the modified primary delays upon speed loss, by taking the high-speed railway network in the Yangtze River Delta region as an example. On this basis, this paper further studies the statistical distribution of primary delay duration, event location distribution, emergent measures distribution, occurrence time and event cause distribution, and other characteristics. Based on this research, the distribution characteristics of the influenced train number and the cumulative delay under kinds of disturbances have been discussed, where the effects of running redundancy, propagation rate, and related parameters on delay propagation have got quantitative analysis. Research shows that the number of abnormal event samples distributed in the sections is 1.53 times that of stations. Based on the Fuzzy C-Means clustering results, abnormal events in the section are more likely to propagate than abnormal events at stations. For trains experiencing primary delay, the relationship between the maximum cumulative train delay and primary delay mostly obey a power-law distribution and the values of R2 are all greater than 0.65, indicating a high correlation at the theoretical level.
The temporal variation in pesticide concentrations within matured French wines
Authors: Spanoghe Pieter , De Rop Jasmine , Goeteyn Lilian , Deja-Muylle Agnieszka , Vanderstappen Hannah , Neckebroeck Lotte , Verhaegen Dries , van den Hove Pauline , Neri Joachim , Meers Erik
Published: February 2025

Numerous organizations worldwide are diligently working to regulate the composition of food products, with a particular focus on pesticide content. Each year, several substances are classified as hazardous to human health and subsequently banned from agricultural use. In this study, we address the age-old question: "Does wine improve with time?" from the context of pesticide composition. We gathered wine samples from renowned French winemaking regions, covering the years 1935 to 2000, to assess pesticide levels and identify specific substances. Our objective was to determine if any currently banned pesticides were present in these aged wines and whether the detected levels pose health risks under typical daily consumption patterns. Our findings revealed the presence of trace amounts of 21 different pesticides proceeding from Plant Protection Products (PPPs), in most of the wine samples, albeit at levels considered non-threatening to human health. Notably, one sample exhibited an alarmingly high concentration of carbaryl, surpassing toxic consumption thresholds. This study prompts discussions regarding the prioritization of pesticide testing in various products and whether stringent regulations should be upheld in the wine selling collectors sector.
A splendid banana enigma: Phylogenomic assessment of Vietnamese Musa splendida and Musa viridis populations shows that they are conspecific
Authors: Bawin Yves , Mertens Arne , de Backer Sander , Vu Dang Toan , Le Loan Thi , Vu Tuong Dang , Janssens Steven B.
Published: February 2025

Species delimitation is essential to study and conserve biological diversity. It is traditionally based on morphological trait variation observed in one or a few specimens. Nevertheless, such assessments may not sufficiently take intraspecific trait variation into account, misidentifying morphotypes as separate species. The use of high-throughput sequencing data alongside morphological data in taxonomic studies may substantially improve the accuracy of taxonomic assessments. The Musa genus, commonly known for comprising the wild relatives of banana varieties, consists of about seventy described species. However, the taxonomic status of multiple Musa species is uncertain due to typification errors and the lack of high-quality specimens. The species M. splendida and M. viridis from northern Viet Nam only substantially differ from each other in the color of their male flower bracts, which is red to pinkish-red in M. splendida and pink in M. viridis. Consequently, their taxonomic status as separate species has been debated. Here, we studied the genetic relationships between 121 M. splendida and M. viridis plants using high-throughput sequencing data (DArTseq) in which we identified 51,188 single nucleotide polymorphisms. We found that individuals genetically clustered in a principal component analysis (6 clusters), fastStructure analysis (four groups), and ASTRAL-III consensus phylogenetic tree (nine clades) based on their population origin rather than by their taxon identity. In addition, a strong signal for an isolation-by-distance pattern between populations was observed. Plants identified as M. viridis were more closely related to M. splendida plants from the same region than to M. viridis plants from other regions. Hence, we propose to treat M. viridis as a synonym of M. splendida.
Corporate internal control, capacity utilization and total factor productivity
Authors: Li Xiao
Published: February 2025

Based on Internal Control (IC) theory and Principal-agent theory, this study explores the impacts of IC on capacity utilization and total factor productivity, and the internal mechanism among them. The results show that effective IC improves total factor productivity and capacity utilization. Sufficient capacity utilization has a mediating effect for the impact of IC and total factor productivity. Heterogeneity discussion shows that with higher environmental uncertainty, effective IC has a more significant marginal effect on total factor productivity and capacity utilization, and sufficient capacity utilization has a greater mediating effect between IC and total factor productivity. Finally, it is suggested that regulators guide enterprises to strengthen IC construction, to improve capacity utilization and total factor productivity. Enterprises facilitate the mechanism that effective IC improves capacity utilization, and increases total factor productivity. This study enriches the literature on IC enabling corporate operation, and has practical significance for shaping competitive advantages.
Prevalence and associated factors of depression among adult refugees in East Africa: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shibeshi Abdu Hailu , Moloro Abdulkerim Hassen , Kase Bizunesh Fantahun , Wubshet Betel Zelalem , Seid Abubeker Alebachew
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Depression is a common mental health problem among adult refugees in East Africa. Refugees in this region face numerous challenges, including mental health issues, with depression being one of the most common and debilitating conditions. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews and meta-analyses that have been conducted to determine the pooled prevalence and associated factors of depression among adult refugees in East Africa. This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among adult refugees in East Africa through an analysis of pooled data.

Materials and methods

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycINFO, and African Journals Online (AJOL) will be conducted to identify studies that have reported the prevalence and associated factors of depression among adult refugees in East Africa. A checklist from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) will be used to assess the methodological quality. The search will be limited to studies published in English. Data extraction, critical appraisal, and screening of all the retrieved articles will be conducted by two independent researchers. Statistical analysis will be performed using STATA-17 software packages. The meta-analysis will be conducted using a random-effects model. The heterogeneity of the studies will be assessed using the I2 statistic. The publication bias will be assessed using the funnel plot and Egger’s test. For determinants of depression, an effect size with a 95% confidence interval will be reported.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval and informed consent are not required as this is a systematic review of existing publications. The final results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at national and international conferences.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024496728
Fashion Projects: 15 Years of Fashion in Dialogue, Francesca Granata (ed.) (2024)
Authors: Matheson Linda Florence
Published: February 2025

Review of: Fashion Projects: 15 Years of Fashion in Dialogue, Francesca Granata (ed.) (2024)

Bristol: Intellect, 225 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-78938-893-0, h/bk, $134.95

ISBN 978-1-78938-894-7, e-book, $103.95

ISBN 978-1-78938-895-4, e-PDF, $103.95
Tribal and the Cultural Legacy of Streetwear, G. James Daichendt (ed.) (2024)
Authors: Reynders Dirk
Published: February 2025

Review of: Tribal and the Cultural Legacy of Streetwear, G. James Daichendt (ed.) (2024)

Bristol: Intellect Books, 240 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-78938-808-4, p/bk, EUR 29.99
Butts: A Backstory, Heather Radke (2022)
Authors: Sperling Joy
Published: February 2025

Review of: Butts: A Backstory, Heather Radke (2022)

New York: Avid Reader Press, 310 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-98213-548-5, h/bk, $28.99

ISBN 978-1-98213-549-2, p/bk, $18.99

ISBN 978-1-98213-552-2, e-book, $14.99
Postoperative Oronasal Fistula Formation Following The Furlow and Other Three Palatoplasty Techniques: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sari Felicia Puspita , Satrio Kenny , Samsarga Gede Wara
Published: February 2025

Introduction : The technique for repairing a cleft palate depends on the length and width of the palate and the type of cleft palate according to the Veau classification. The most common surgical techniques include the Furlow double opposing Z-plasty, the Bardach palatoplasty, the von Langenbeck palatoplasty, and the V-Y pushback. One of the most frequent complications after cleft palate repair is an oronasal fistula (ONF). This article aimed to compare the risk of postoperative ONF formation following cleft palate repair.Method : We searched for manuscripts involving patients with ONF formation following the Furlow, Bardach, von Langenbeck, and V-Y pushback palatoplasty. Electronic literature searching of the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases was conducted for the studies published up to November 2022.Result: The meta-analysis used 17 studies, including the analysis of 3,207 repaired cleft palates. The Furlow technique was associated with a statistically lower risk of ONF formation when compared to the von Langenbeck and V-Y pushback techniques (RR=0.06[0.43-0.840],p<0.01 and RR=0.30[0.15-0.62],p<0.01 respectively). There were no statistically significant differences regarding ONF formation between the Furlow technique and the Bardach technique (RR=1.45[0.48-0.43],p=0.51).Conclusion: The Furlow technique is associated with a lower risk of ONF compared to the von Langenbeck and V-Y pushback techniques. There were no statistically significant differences in ONF formation between the Furlow and Bardach techniques.