bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive agency and the acceptability of divorce, abortion, and homosexuality among migrants from the Middle East and Africa living in Sweden–a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: van der Kop Mia L. , Båge Karin , Tirado Veronika , Kågesten Anna , Puranen Bi , Sorcher Rachael , Ekström Anna Mia , Larsson Elin C.
Published: February 2025

Background

Sweden has a longstanding history of promoting sexual reproductive health and rights. Reproductive decision-making is a fundamental right, but an individual’s decision-making power differs across contexts. We examined self-reported reproductive agency and the acceptability of divorce, abortion and homosexuality among migrants in Sweden originating from the Middle East or North Africa (MENA) and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

This cross-sectional study used face-to-face interview data from the 2018–2019 Migrant World Values Survey (MWVS) and included individuals 18–49 years old who migrated to Sweden from MENA or SSA. Partial proportional odds models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and corresponding confidence intervals (CI) of associations between sociodemographic factors and two outcomes: 1) reproductive agency (decision-making power on when, with whom, and how many children to have), measured on a 10-point scale categorized as low (1–4), moderate (5–7), and high (8–10); and 2) the Choice Sub-Index (CSI), a composite index of the acceptability of divorce, abortion, and homosexuality, categorized as 0- < 0.4 (low), 0.4- < 0.7 (moderate), and 0.7–1.0 (high).

Results

Between September 2018 and November 2019, 7991 participants responded to the MWVS, of whom 4669 met the inclusion criteria. Almost 3/4 (73%) of respondents expressed a high degree of reproductive agency, but less than five per cent of respondents had a high value on the CSI. Living in Sweden ≥ 4 years was associated with higher values on the CSI (aOR 1.76, 95% CI 1.15–2.67), while identifying as Muslim was associated with having a low value on the CSI (aOR 0.44, 95% CI 0.32–0.63). Neither duration of time in Sweden nor identifying as Muslim were associated with reproductive agency. Age and reason for migration (family reunification or as a refugee) were not associated with either outcome.

Conclusion

Our study found that migrants from MENA and SSA expressed a high degree of reproductive agency. Migrants had low values of a combined measure of the acceptability of divorce, abortion and homosexuality; however, acceptance increased with time spent in Sweden. Understanding factors associated with migrants’ sense of reproductive agency and their values and how these change over time in Sweden provides a foundation for working towards equitable sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Factors associated with upper extremity use after stroke: a scoping review of accelerometry studies
Authors: Gagné-Pelletier Léandre , Poitras Isabelle , Roig Marc , Mercier Catherine
Published: February 2025

Background

A discrepancy between the level of impairment at the upper extremity (UE) and its use in activities of daily life is frequently observed in individuals who have experienced a stroke. Wrist-worn accelerometers allow an objective and valid measure of UE use in everyday life. Accelerometer studies have shown that a wide range of factors beyond UE impairment can influence UE use. This scoping review aims to identify factors associated with UE use and to investigate the influence of different types of accelerometry metrics on these associations.

Method

A search using CINHAL, Embase, MEDLINE, Compendex, and Web of Science Core Collection databases was performed. Studies that assessed the association between UE use quantified with accelerometers and factors related to the person or their environment in individuals with stroke were included. Data related to study design, participants characteristics, accelerometry methodology (absolute vs. relative UE use metrics), and associations with personal and environmental factors were extracted.

Results

Fifty-four studies were included. Multiple studies consistently reported associations between relative UE use and stroke severity, UE motor impairment, unimanual capacity, bimanual capacity, and mobility. In contrast, there were inconsistent associations with factors such as neglect and concordance between dominance and side of paresis and a consistent lack of association between relative UE use and time since stroke, sex, and age. Metrics of absolute paretic UE use yielded different results regarding their association with personal and environmental factors, as they were more influenced by factors related to physical activity and less associated with factors related to UE capacity.

Conclusion

Healthcare providers should recognize the complexity of the relationship between UE use and impairment and consider additional factors when selecting assessments during rehabilitation to identify patients at risk of underutilizing their paretic arm in daily life. Future research in this domain should preconize relative UE use metrics or multi-sensors method to control for the effect of physical activity.
A method for phenotyping lettuce volume and structure from 3D images
Authors: Bloch Victor , Shapiguzov Alexey , Kotilainen Titta , Pastell Matti
Published: February 2025

Monitoring plant growth is crucial for effective crop management, and using color and depth (RGBD) cameras to model lettuce has emerged as one of the most convenient and non-invasive methods. In recent years, deep learning techniques, particularly neural networks, have become popular for estimating lettuce fresh weight. However, these models are typically specific to particular datasets, lack domain adaptation, and are often limited by the availability of open-access datasets. In this study, we propose a method based on plant geometric features for estimating the rosette structure and volume of lettuce. This new approach was compared to existing methods that reconstruct surfaces from point clouds, such as Ball Pivoting and Alpha Shapes. The proposed method creates a tight hull around the plant's point cloud, preserving high detail of the rosette structure while filling in surface holes in areas not visible to 3D cameras. Using a linear regression model, we estimated fresh weight for this dataset, achieving a root mean square error (RMSE) of 18.2 g when using only the estimated plant volume, and 17.3 g when both volume and geometric features were included. Additionally, we introduced new geometric features that characterize leaf density, which could be useful for breeding applications. A dataset of 402 point clouds of lettuce plants, captured before harvest, was compiled using one top-down and three side-view 3D cameras.
Reciprocal regulation of MMP-28 and EGFR is required for sustaining proliferative signaling in PDAC
Authors: Hong Zhengtao , Huang Xing , Xia Linghao , Liang Tingbo , Bai Xueli
Published: February 2025

Backgroud

Sustaining proliferation signaling is the top hallmarks of cancer, driving continuous tumor growth and resistance to drug treatments. Blocking proliferation signaling has shown limited benefit in clinical treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, highlighting the urgent need to deeply understand proliferation signaling and develop new therapeutic strategies.

Methods

By leveraging clinical data and data from the TCGA and GDSC datasets, we investigated the association between MMP-28 expression and the sensitivity to EGFR inhibitors as well as the prognosis of PDAC. Transcriptomic and biological experiments explore the regulatory role of MMP-28 on the EGFR signaling pathway. Additionally, in vitro and in vivo studies are employed to evaluate MMP-28 as a biomarker for sensitivity to EGFR inhibitors.

Results

We found that MMP-28, a metalloproteinase, was significantly associated with the sensitivity to EGFR inhibitors. Furthermore, MMP-28 could promote PDAC growth and metastasis. Mechanistically, MMP-28 facilitated the maturation and release of the TGF-α precursor, thus promoting EGFR activation. In return, EGFR upregulated MMP-28 through AP-1-mediated transcription, forming a positive feedback loop that provided sustaining proliferation signaling for PDAC. Subsequently, MMP-28 was identified to predict the response to EGFR inhibitors and recognize responsive patients.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed the role of MMP-28 and EGFR in generation of sustaining proliferation signaling and provided a new therapy strategy for PDAC.
CD47 blockade reverses resistance to HDAC inhibitor by liberating anti-tumor capacity of macrophages
Authors: Xu Xutao , Wang Qianqian , Guo Ke , Xu Junjie , Lu Yunkun , Chen Huijuan , Hu Weilin , Fu Yilin , Sun Lu , He Ying , Chen Zhehang , Xia Wenhao , Pan Mengtian , Lin Beibei , Yang Wenjuan , Wang Qingqing , Wen Zhenzhen , Cao Qian , Xiao Peng
Published: February 2025

Background

Targeting oncogenic histone modification by histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) demonstrates promising prospects in clinical cancer treatment, whereas a notable proportion of patients cannot benefit from HDACi therapy. This study aims to explore how HDACi influences the tumor microenvironment, in order to identify potential targets for reversing the resistance to HDACi therapies.

Methods

Macrophage infiltration was compared between HDACi-responding and HDACi-nonresponding cancer patients. The impact of HDACis on the phagocytic capacity of macrophages was investigated through macrophage-tumor cell co-culture system. CD47 expression in tumor cell lines and patient-derived organoids was evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) and flow cytometry. Mechanistic studies were conducted through co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). The synergistic effect of HDACis and CD47 neutralizing antibody was assessed in subcutaneous murine tumor models. Bioinformatics approaches were adopted to analyze how macrophage infiltration determines the prognostic significance of CD47 expression in cancer patients.

Results

High macrophage infiltration is a determinant of therapeutic non-response to HDACi, cancer patients who did not respond to HDACi exhibit massive infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). TAM depletion reversed the resistance to HDACi therapy. Mechanistically, HDACi impaired the phagocytic capacity of macrophages against tumor cells through epigenetically upregulating CD47 expression. Reciprocally, HDACi-upregulated CD47 polarized macrophages towards a pro-tumor M2 phenotype through SIRPα ligation. In tumor-bearing mice, HDACi monotherapy only marginally delayed tumor progression, while the concurrent neutralization of CD47 exhibited potent anti-tumor effect through re-educating TAMs towards a tumoricidal phenotype. In cancer patients, CD47 was found to determine the prognostic significance of TAMs.

Conclusions

Our study offers a rationale for targeting macrophage infiltration or blocking CD47 to sensitize HDACi therapies in cancer patients.
Characterization of overwintering sites (hibernacula) of the West Nile vector Culex pipiens in Central Italy
Authors: Romiti Federico , Casini Riccardo , Del Lesto Irene , Magliano Adele , Ermenegildi Arianna , Droghei Sarah , Tofani Silvia , Scicluna Maria Teresa , Pichler Verena , Augello Adriana , Censi Francesco , Scaringella Paolo Luigi , Mastrobuoni Giovanni , Bacciotti Debora , Nencetti Alberto , De Liberato Claudio
Published: February 2025

Background

In cool-temperate regions, mosquitoes face winter conditions that hinder their development. To cope with cold temperatures, species like Culex pipiens, a major vector of West Nile virus (WNV), diapause as adult females in overwintering shelters known as hibernacula. This study aimed to identify and characterize the overwintering sites of Cx. pipiens in central Italy, analyzing the environmental factors influencing the abundance of the two biological forms, Cx. pipiens pipiens and Cx. pipiens molestus.

Methods

Field surveys were conducted in Lazio and Tuscany over two consecutive winters (2022/2023 and 2023/2024). Overwintering mosquitoes were collected from different hibernacula types, including natural caves, artificial cavities and buildings. Environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, light intensity and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) were recorded in the entrance and inner rooms of each hibernaculum. Mosquito species and Cx. pipiens forms were identified through morphological and molecular analyses. A beta regression model was applied to assess the relationship between environmental factors and Cx. pipiens abundance. Redundancy analysis (RDA) was used to explore the impact of small- and landscape-scale variables on biological forms distribution.

Results

Culex pipiens presence was confirmed in 24 hibernacula and represented the most abundant species, with Anopheles maculipennis s.l., Culiseta annulata and Culex hortensis accounting for 0.4% of the collected individuals. Comparing the entrance and inner rooms, a higher abundance of Cx. pipiens s.s. was observed in the darker environments, characterized by a humidity of 50–75%, a temperature of 10–20 °C and a VPD of 0.3–0.8 kPa. Inside the inner rooms, Cx. pipiens females preferred lower temperatures, light intensity and humidity, combined with higher VPD. The RDA highlighted that Cx. pipiens pipiens was associated with low temperatures and VPD and high humidity levels, preferring semi-natural areas. Culex pipiens molestus was positively associated with artificial areas. Hybrids were observed in several types of hibernacula.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into the overwintering ecology of Cx. pipiens in southern Europe, highlighting the environmental factors driving its abundance. These results may inform future vector control strategies aimed at reducing mosquito populations and limiting WNV diffusion in temperate regions.

Graphical Abstract
One size doesn’t fit all: exploring the influence of body size, age, and sex on right ventricle size measurements
Authors: Wang Yun , Scott Christopher G. , Kane Garvan C. , Pislaru Sorin V. , Bird Jared G. , Pellikka Patricia A. , Anand Vidhu
Published: February 2025

Background

The assessment of right ventricular (RV) size is an important part of 2-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography. Current chamber quantification guidelines provide reference values as unindexed numbers, similar for men and women. We sought to evaluate normal ranges of RV dimensions based on age, sex, body surface area (BSA), and height.

Consecutive patients with “normal echocardiogram” between January 2011 and August 2022 at our center were retrospectively included. RV dimensions including diameter at the base and mid-ventricle level, and base-to-apex length were measured.

Results

Of 1389 patients (median 43 years, 53% female) with all three measurements available, the median RV measurements, both unindexed and indexed to BSA, were: basal diameter 35.0 mm (31.0–39.0) and 18.4 mm/m2 (16.5–20.3); mid diameter 28.0 mm and 14.8 mm/m2 (13.1–16.6); RV length 73.0 mm (67.0–78.0) and 37.6 mm/m2 (34.9–40.9). RV dimensions were larger in men than women across all age groups but similar when indexed to BSA (for basal and mid dimensions). RV length was best indexed to height. Our indexed normal values by age and sex were similar to World Alliance Societies of Echocardiography (WASE) cohort.

Conclusions

RV measurements should be indexed to BSA, considering sex and age, to determine RV size and enlargement.
Autologous iPSC- and MSC-derived chondrocyte implants for cartilage repair in a miniature pig model
Authors: Lee Ming-Song , Lin Eric Chang-Yi , Sivapatham Athillesh , Leiferman Ellen M. , Jiao Hongli , Lu Yan , Nemke Brett W. , Leiferman Matthew , Markel Mark D. , Li Wan-Ju
Published: February 2025

Background

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (iMSCs) have greater potential for generating chondrocytes without hypertrophic and fibrotic phenotypes compared to bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BMSCs). However, there is a lack of research demonstrating the use of autologous iMSCs for repairing articular chondral lesions in large animal models. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of autologous miniature pig (minipig) iMSC-chondrocyte (iMSC-Ch)-laden implants in comparison to autologous BMSC-chondrocyte (BMSC-Ch)-laden implants for cartilage repair in porcine femoral condyles.

Methods

iMSCs and BMSCs were seeded into fibrin glue/nanofiber constructs and cultured with chondrogenic induction media for 7 days before implantation. To assess the regenerative capacity of the cells, 19 skeletally mature Yucatan minipigs were randomly divided into microfracture control, acellular scaffold, iMSC, and BMSC subgroups. A cylindrical defect measuring 7 mm in diameter and 0.6 mm in depth was created on the articular cartilage surface without violating the subchondral bone. The defects were then left untreated or treated with acellular or cellular implants.

Results

Both cellular implant-treated groups exhibited enhanced joint repair compared to the microfracture and acellular control groups. Immunofluorescence analysis yielded significant findings, showing that cartilage treated with iMSC-Ch implants exhibited higher expression of COL2A1 and minimal to no expression of COL1A1 and COL10A1, in contrast to the BMSC-Ch-treated group. This indicates that the iMSC-Ch implants generated more hyaline cartilage-like tissue compared to the BMSC-Ch implants.

Conclusions

Our findings contribute to filling the knowledge gap regarding the use of autologous iPSC derivatives for cartilage repair in a translational animal model. Moreover, these results highlight their potential as a safe and effective therapeutic strategy.
Prevalence, triggers, and impact of migraine on university students: a scoping review
Authors: Axiotidou Maria , Koutroulou Ioanna , Karapanayiotides Theodoros , Papakonstantinou Doxa
Published: February 2025

Background

Migraine is a prevalent primary headache disorder, affecting approximately 14% of the global population, with the highest burden observed among young women. This scoping review examines the prevalence, triggers, and impact of migraine in university students—a group particularly vulnerable due to academic pressures. By synthesizing existing literature on migraine prevalence, triggers, and effects within this population, the review aims to address research gaps and inform targeted interventions.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to determine the available literature on migraine among university students. An electronic literature search spanning the last decade was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

Results

This review included 41 published manuscripts out of 404 records retrieved after screening titles, abstracts, and texts. The overall prevalence of migraine is increasing, ranging from 9.0% to 27.9%. Behavioral and environmental factors are the primary triggers of migraine attacks, which can compromise academic achievements and contribute to concurrent psychological disorders.

Conclusions

Migraine commonly affects university students, with behavioral and environmental factors such as stress, anxiety, and weather changes serving as critical triggers. Migraine significantly impacts the academic performance and health status, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and management.
Increased risk of non-cancer deaths in patients with malignant brain tumors: observations from the SEER database
Authors: Ashry Mohamed Hady , Sadeq Mohammed Ahmed , Afify Abdelrahman Yousry
Published: February 2025

Background

Research on mortality outcomes and non-cancer-related causes of death in patients with malignant brain tumors remains limited. This study aims to identify the prevalence of non-cancer-related causes of death after brain cancer (BC) diagnosis.

Methods

Data of patients diagnosed with BC in the USA between 2000 and 2019 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were retrieved and analyzed. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated for all the reported causes of death.

Results

A total of 59,663 deaths were reported during the follow-up period. The highest number of fatalities (34,677) occurred within the first year following BC diagnosis. BC-attributable deaths were the leading cause of mortality (55,482; 93%), followed by non-cancer deaths (3888; 6.5%). BC patients had an increased risk of non-cancer attributable deaths (SMR = 6.12; 95% CI 5.93–6.31) including heart diseases (N = 938; SMR = 5.3; 95% CI 4.96–5.65), cerebrovascular diseases (N = 453; SMR = 13.17; 95% CI 11.98–14.44), accidents and adverse effects (N = 227; SMR = 2.97; 95% CI 2.6–3.39), and septicemia (N = 155; SMR = 13.39; 95% CI 11.36–15.67).

Conclusion

Compared to the general population, BC patients had a statistically significant higher risk of death from most of the reported causes.
Retenção de clientes em uma Instituição de Ensino Superior Pernambucana
Authors: Luciano Júnior Janilson Nascimento , Amorim Bartira Pereira , Melo Fagner José Coutinho de , Sobral Eryka Fernanda Miranda , Cruz Tatyane Veras de Queiroz Ferreira da
Published: February 2025

Este estudo tem como objetivo identificar o efeito que a satisfação tem sobre a qualidade percebida e sobre a confiança, bem como o efeito da confiança na retenção de estudantes de uma instituição de ensino superior. Os dados foram coletados por meio de uma survey e analisados utilizando a Modelagem de Equações Estruturais por Mínimos Quadrados Parciais. Os resultados indicam um efeito positivo na relação entre as variáveis, evidenciando a importância da qualidade na prestação do serviço, o que reflete na satisfação. A percepção de qualidade afeta a confiança depositada na instituição, desencadeando a construção de relacionamentos lucrativos e duradouros.
Negative perceptions toward older adults and life satisfaction among community-dwelling older citizens in Japan
Authors: Shimizu Yuho , Sato Kenichiro , Ogawa Susumu , Cho Daisuke , Takahashi Yoshifumi , Yamashiro Daichi , Li Yan , Takahashi Tomoya , Hinakura Keigo , Iizuka Ai , Furuya Tomoki , Suzuki Hiroyuki
Published: February 2025

Background With the rapid aging of the population, increasing life satisfaction among older adults is essential. Negative perceptions of older adults are internalized, leading to poor mental health. This study hypothesized that participants with more negative perceptions of older adults would have lower life satisfaction. Methods A cross-sectional survey of older adults was conducted across five wards and four cities in Tokyo, Japan. Participants responded to questions regarding demographics, life satisfaction, and negative perceptions of older adults. Data from 285 participants (264 women, M = 71.97 years) were analyzed. Results The intraclass correlation coefficient for life satisfaction concerning residential areas was. 03 (95% confidence interval [CI] = [-.03, .10]). Instead of multilevel models, a multiple regression model with life satisfaction as the dependent variable and negative perceptions of older adults and demographics as the independent variables yielded the best fit. Results indicated that participants with more negative perceptions of older adults reported lower life satisfaction (β = -.16, 95% CI = [-.28, -.04], p = .008), supporting our hypothesis. Conclusions This study was constrained by limited variance in residential areas and a predominantly female participant pool. Previous studies have shown that higher life satisfaction is associated with increased social participation and extended life expectancy, and interventions aimed at enhancing life satisfaction in older adults are significant. Further exploration is warranted to ascertain whether a causal relationship exists, wherein more negative perceptions of older adults diminish life satisfaction.
The genome sequence of the mallard, Anas platyrhynchos Linnaeus, 1758
Authors: Humby Toby D. , O'Brien Michelle , Lopez Colom Rosa ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2025

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard; Chordata; Aves; Anseriformes; Anatidae). The assembly contains two haplotypes with total lengths of 1,300.23 megabases and 1,136.57 megabases, respectively. Most of haplotype 1 (91.77%) is scaffolded into 41 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the W and Z chromosomes, while haplotype 2 is a scaffold-level assembly. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.61 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Dotted Ermel moth, Ethmia dodecea (Haworth, 1828)
Authors: Boyes Douglas ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2025

We present a genome assembly from a male Ethmia dodecea (Dotted Ermel; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Depressariidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 457.55 megabases. Most of the assembly (99.87%) is scaffolded into 29 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.34 kilobases in length.
Koncepcja analizy wielopoziomowej w pedagogice porównawczej: zastosowanie modelu Braya i T homasa
Authors: Bocharova Olena
Published: February 2025

Artykuł ma na celu szczegółowe omówienie koncepcji analizy wielopoziomowej autorstwa Braya i Thomasa w kontekście badań porównawczych w edukacji. Mark Bray i Murray Thomas stworzyli model umożliwiający wszechstronne porównywanie systemów edukacyjnych z uwzględnieniem ich złożonego tła geograficznego, społecznego, kulturowego oraz politycznego.Autorka artykułu nie tylko opisuje strukturę tego modelu, ale również przedstawia jego praktyczne zastosowanie w badaniach porównawczych. Dzięki temu możliwe jest lepsze zrozumienie interakcji między różnymi poziomami analizy – od globalnych systemów edukacyjnych, przez poziomy krajowe i lokalne, aż po indywidualne podejścia w szkołach i klasach. Przykłady badańporównawczych zamieszczone w artykule ilustrują, jak można wdrażać koncepcję wielopoziomowej analizy, co pomaga badaczom w lepszej interpretacji różnic i podobieństw między systemami edukacyjnymi oraz dostosowywaniu reform edukacyjnych do specyficznych lokalnych potrzeb.
Análisis de los recursos narrativos y características del pódcast de no ficción en España (2004-2020)
Authors: Ruiz-Martínez Ángela , Moreno-Espinosa Pastora , Figuereo-Benítez Juan C.
Published: February 2025

Los pódcast narrativos de no ficción son una modalidad de contenido auditivo caracterizada por su enfoque documental y su estructura narrativa. En el ámbito académico, estos pódcast se estudian por su capacidad para transmitir información de manera atractiva y por su impacto en la percepción pública de eventos y temas contemporáneos. Esta investigación realiza una revisión del concepto y un análisis cualitativo de 18 variables y recursos narrativos presentes en los pódcast publicados en España entre 2004 y 2020, el cual se complementa con entrevistas semiestructuradas a expertos. Los resultados revelan que los pódcast narrativos de no ficción destacan por su capacidad para combinar técnicas periodísticas, literarias y de producción sonora a fin de crear contenidos informativos y analíticos que presentan una perspectiva más detallada de la realidad. Estos formatos buscan profundizar en temas de la realidad a través de un enfoque periodístico, caracterizado por una extensión significativa. El proceso de creación de estos pódcast implica un riguroso trabajo de investigación previa, una narrativa literaria envolvente y la utilización de entrevistas con los protagonistas directos. Además, la inclusión de elementos sonoros, fondos musicales, archivos históricos y efectos de audio es fundamental para la evolución de las historias presentadas.
Effectiveness of an enhanced silver-containing dressing in hard-to-heal venous leg ulcers: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Beraldo Stefania , Ljungqvist Jan , Rodger Rebecca , Hanson Beate , Saavedra Catarina
Published: February 2025

Objective:

To assess the efficacy and safety of a carboxymethylcellulose dressing containing ionic silver, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and benzethonium chloride (CISEB) versus a dialkylcarbamoyl chloride-coated dressing (DACC) in hard-to-heal venous leg ulcers (VLUs).

Method:

In a multinational, multicentre, randomised controlled trial, patients with hard-to-heal VLUs were randomised 1:1 to receive CISEB (n=100) or DACC (n=103) for up to four weeks. VLUs that were not healed by week 4 were managed with standard of care for up to 12 weeks or until healed (whichever was sooner). The primary endpoint was complete wound closure at week 12. Additional endpoints included time to complete wound closure and incidence of adverse events (AEs).

Results:

The trial cohort included 203 patients. CISEB achieved a higher rate of complete wound closure by week 12 compared to DACC (74.8% versus 55.6%, respectively; p<0.0031), and was associated with a 35% increased likelihood of healing (risk ratio, 1.35; 95% confidence interval: 1.10–1.65). Median time to complete wound closure was shorter in the CISEB arm (56 days) compared to the DACC arm (70 days; p<0.0272). A smaller proportion of patients experienced an AE with CISEB compared to DACC (5.0% versus 17.6%, respectively).

Conclusion:

Management of hard-to-heal VLUs with CISEB was associated with improved healing outcomes compared to DACC, without additional safety concerns. CISEB is a gelling fibre dressing with antimicrobial, metal-chelating and surfactant components that may promote an optimal healing environment to address the challenge of hard-to-heal wounds.
AI-deepfake scams and the importance of a holistic communication security strategy
Authors: Muhly Fabian , Chizzonic Emanuele , Leo Philipp
Published: February 2025

As artificial intelligence (AI) technology continues to advance, so too do the methods by which it is exploited for criminal purposes. A particularly concerning development is the emergence of AI-powered deepfake scams, wherein sophisticated algorithms generate convincing fake audio and video to deceive individuals and organizations. These scams often masquerade as legitimate communications, enabling fraudsters to manipulate victims and defraud them of sensitive information or financial resources. This phenomenon, though relatively new, poses a significant and escalating threat to information security and to the financial assets of individuals and organizations alike. Its rapid proliferation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive research and countermeasures to mitigate its impact. This article provides best practices to improve communication security of organizations to counter the risk of becoming the victim of AI-powered deepfake scams. First, this article presents legal requirements that underpin the necessity and importance of communication security within an organization. Further, this article provides a three-staged best practices process that helps organizations improving their communication security. It presents a holistic approach of technical, organizational and educational processes to counter the risk of becoming victim to AI-powered deepfake scams.
An agent-based model to simulate the transmission dynamics of bloodborne pathogens within hospitals
Authors: Henriot Paul , El-Kassas Mohamed , Anwar Wagida , Girgis Samia A. , El Gaafary Maha , Jean Kévin , Temime Laura
Published: February 2025

Mathematical models are powerful tools to analyze pathogen spread and assess control strategies in healthcare settings. Nevertheless, available models focus on nosocomial transmission through direct contact or aerosols rather than through blood, even though bloodborne pathogens remain a significant source of iatrogenic infectious risk. Herein, we propose an agent-based SEI (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected) model to reproduce the transmission of bloodborne pathogens dynamically within hospitals. This model simulates the dynamics of patients between hospital wards, from admission to discharge, as well as the dynamics of the devices used during at-risk invasive procedures, considering that patient contamination occurs after exposure to a contaminated device. We first illustrate the use of this model through a case study on hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Egypt. Model parameters, such as HCV upon-admission prevalence and transition probabilities between wards or ward-specific probabilities of undergoing different invasive procedures, are informed with data collected in Ain Shams University Hospital in Cairo. Our results suggest a low risk of HCV acquisition for patients hospitalized in this university hospital. However, we show that in a low-resource hospital, frequent device shortages could lead to increased risk. We also find that systematically screening patients in a few selected high-risk wards could significantly reduce this risk. We then further explore potential model applications through a second illustrative case study based on HBV nosocomial transmission in Ethiopia. In the future, this model could be used to predict the potential burden of emerging bloodborne pathogens and help implement effective control strategies in various hospital contexts.
Overcoming structural violence through community-based safe-spaces: Qualitative insights from young women on oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Kisumu, Kenya
Authors: Owuor Patrick Mbullo , Odhiambo Silvia Achieng , Orero Wicklife Odhiambo , Owuor Judith Atieno , Onyango Elizabeth Opiyo
Published: February 2025

Biomedical and behavioral interventions have led to significant success in the prevention of HIV/AIDS. However, in rural communities, structural violence persists and continues to create barriers to the uptake and utilization of health services, especially among young women. To overcome these barriers, community-led initiatives have provided a range of interventions, including safe spaces (i.e., vetted meeting venues where girls come together to discuss issues affecting their wellbeing and access health services, such as PreP) for young women. Although these spaces provide a safe haven for at-risk girls and young women, the role of community safe spaces in overcoming structural violence remains under-explored in literature. Using the structural violence framework, this study explored how community-led safe spaces for HIV prevention programs can overcome structural forces – policies, norms, or practices – that perpetuate structural violence and prevent access to healthcare services among young girls and women in Kisumu, Kenya. We purposively recruited young women (n = 36) enrolled in the Pamoja Community-Based Organization’s DREAMS program in Kisumu, Kenya. Data were collected from the 2022–2023 cohort between June and July 2023 using semi-structured, in-depth interviews (n = 20) and two focused group discussions (n = 16). Guided by thematic analysis, data were analyzed in Atlas.Ti and organized into themes. This study found that community approaches such as safe spaces are instrumental in overcoming structural violence among young women by addressing three forms of barriers – institutional, sociocultural, and economic barriers – that limit HIV support service access. Institutional barriers encompassed distance and time to health facilities and provider attitude, while sociocultural barriers included knowledge gaps, stigma, cultural norms, beliefs, and practices, limiting health service access. Lastly, the socioeconomic barriers highlighted inadequate income, financial literacy, and financial dependency. Community safe spaces are vital for decreasing vulnerability and serve as critical points for accessing services and building capacity for young women. This is particularly important in rural areas where retrogressive societal norms create obstacles to obtaining essential health services. To effectively overcome structural violence, however, government support and a suitable policy environment are essential for implementing interventions to address the underlying root causes of structural violence and sustaining community-based safe spaces.
Victimization status among persons with disabilities and its predictors: Evidence from Bangladesh National Survey on Persons with Disabilities
Authors: Rahman Mizanur , Rana Md Shohel , Khandaker Gulam , Rahman Md Mostafizur , Khan Md. Nuruzzaman
Published: February 2025

Background

Persons with disabilities often face various forms of victimization, yet there is limited research exploring this phenomenon in Bangladesh. This study aims to investigate the victimization status among persons with disabilities and identify its predictors.

Methods

Data of 4293 persons with disabilities analyzed in this study were extracted from the 2021 National Survey on Persons with Disabilities. Victimization status (yes, no) was considered as the outcome variables. Explanatory variables considered were factors at the individual, household, and community levels. A multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression model was used to explore the association of the outcome variable with explanatory variables by dividing the total sample into age groups of 0–17 years, 18–59 years, and ≥ 60 years.

Results

The study found that 44% of persons with disabilities in Bangladesh experienced victimization, primarily involving neighbours (90.64%), relatives (43.41%), friends (28.41%), and family members (27.07%). Among persons aged 0–17 years, increasing age was associated with a higher likelihood of being victimized, while residing in the wealthiest households or in certain divisions like Khulna and Rangpur was associated with lower likelihoods. Conversely, among respondents aged 18–59 and ≥ 60 years, increasing age was associated with a lower likelihood of being victimized. Unmarried respondents aged 18–59 years had an increased likelihood of victimization compared to married individuals. For persons with disabilities aged ≥ 60 years, a higher level of schooling was associated with a reduced likelihood of being victimized. We also found divisional differences in the likelihood of victimization, with respondents residing in Chattogram, Khulna, Mymensingh, Rangpur, and Sylhet reporting lower likelihoods compared to those residing in the Barishal division, among persons with disabilities aged 18–59 and ≥ 60 years.

Conclusion

This study’s findings underscore that around 4 in 10 persons with disabilities are being victimized. Tailored programs and awareness-building initiatives covering neighbours, relatives, friends, and family members of persons with disabilities are important to ensure dignified lives for this population.
Outcomes of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage versus percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage for obstructive jaundice
Authors: Azami Tetsushi , Takano Yuichi , Tamai Naoki , Noda Jun , Yamawaki Masataka , Niiya Fumitaka , Maruoka Naotaka , Nishimoto Fumiya , Ishihara Akira , Nagahama Masatsugu
Published: February 2025

Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) is an alternative to percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) for cases with obstructive jaundice in which the bile duct obstruction is below the confluence of the cystic ducts. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of PTGBD and PTBD in patients with obstructive jaundice. We recruited patients who had undergone percutaneous biliary drainage for acute cholangitis and obstructive jaundice at two institutions between January 2017 and March 2024. In principle, PTBD was the first choice. PTGBD was selected for cases where the intrahepatic bile duct diameter was ≤ 5 mm or ≥ 6 mm with significant respiratory-related variability of the positioning of the bile ducts. In other cases, PTBD was chosen. Fifty-five patients were included in this analysis. However, patients with intrahepatic or hilar bile duct stenosis, post choledocholithiasis, complex cholecystitis, total bilirubin levels of < 2.0 mg/dL, and uncorrectable bleeding tendency and those who had undergone the procedure and later discontinued without puncture were excluded. The technical success rates, clinical success rates, and complication rates of the procedure were evaluated. The technical success rates were 96.3% (26/27) and 82.1% (23/28) in the PTGBD and PTBD groups, respectively. The clinical success rates were 85.2% (23/27) and 67.9% (19/28) in the PTGBD and PTBD groups, respectively. The complication rates were 18.5% (5/27) and 25.0% (7/28) in the PTGBD and PTBD groups, respectively. No serious complications were observed in either group. Hence, the two groups did not significantly differ in any of the endpoints. The outcomes of PTGBD were comparable to those of PTBD in patients with obstructive jaundice. Hence, PTGBD is a reasonable treatment option for cases of obstructive jaundice in which PTBD is not feasible.
A structured, home-based exercise programme in kidney transplant recipients (ECSERT): A randomised controlled feasibility study
Authors: Billany Roseanne E. , Macdonald Jamie H. , Burns Stephanie , Chowdhury Rafhi , Ford Ella C. , Mubaarak Zahra , Sohansoha Gurneet K. , Vadaszy Noemi , Young Hannah M. L. , Bishop Nicolette C. , Smith Alice C. , Graham-Brown Matthew P. M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Cardiometabolic diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in kidney transplant recipients (KTR) due to clustering of traditional and non-traditional risk factors including poor physical fitness and physical inactivity. Exercise may mitigate the risk of these diseases in this population but evidence is limited, and physical activity levels are low. The ECSERT randomised controlled trial assessed the feasibility of delivering a structured, home-based exercise intervention in KTR at increased cardiometabolic risk.

Methods

Fifty KTR (>1-year post-transplant) were randomised 1:1 to: intervention (INT: a 12-week home-based combined aerobic and resistance exercise programme) or control (CTR: guideline-directed care). The a-priori thresholds for feasibility were: recruitment of 20% of eligible participants (≥2 participants per month); adherence (an average of ≥ 3 exercise sessions per week); and attrition (≤30%).

Results

One hundred and seventy-one patients were screened and 94 (55%) were eligible and invited to take part in the study. Fifty of those invited (53%) were recruited across 22 months of recruitment. Consented participant characteristics were: age 50 ± 14 years (INT 49 ± 13; CTR 51 ± 15), 23 male (INT 10; CTR 13), eGFR 59 ± 19 ml/min/1.73m2 (INT 60 ± 20; CTR 61 ± 21), 35 White British (WB), 13 South Asian (SA), 1 Caribbean, and 1 Mixed ethnicity (INT 17 WB, 7 SA, 1 Mixed; CTR 18 WB, 6 SA, 1 Caribbean). Intervention participants (n = 22 completed) recorded an average of 4.4 ± 1.4 exercise sessions per week (aerobic 2.8 ± 1.1; strength 1.6 ± 0.5). Three participants withdrew from the intervention group (1 COVID-19 infection, 1 recurrent urine infections unrelated to the trial, 1 time/family circumstances) and one from the control group (lost to follow-up; 8% attrition). There were no serious adverse events reported.

Conclusion

Despite previous evidence showing physical fitness and activity levels are low in KTR, the present results support that a structured, home-based exercise programme is feasible in this population. Specifically, a-priory recruitment, adherence, and retention thresholds were all exceeded. The groups were well matched and there was encouraging representation of female participants and participants from a non-white background. Thus, this study supports further development and testing of home-based programmes of exercise and activity for KTR.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04123951
How does round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) affect fish abundance in the Swedish coastal areas of the Baltic Sea?
Authors: Naddafi Rahmat , Florin Ann-Britt
Published: February 2025

Quantifying the effects of species invasions is particularly challenging, as it requires accurate measurements of the ecosystem before and after the invasion. The round goby (Neogobius melanostomus), a highly successful invasive species from the Ponto-Caspian region, has had significant ecological impacts on native communities in the invaded ecosystems. However, there are currently no studies examining the impact of the round goby invasion on the abundance of coastal fish in the Baltic Sea. Using 17–23 years of monitoring data from four areas, we quantified the changes in fish abundance (mostly representing coastal fish indicators and key coastal fish species) associated with the round goby invasion in the Swedish coastal areas. A generalized additive mixed model suggests that round goby invasion will lead to an increase in the abundance of perch, cyprinids, piscivores, and ruffe, while whitefish and flounder abundance will decrease. In addition, the abundance of sprat and herring may not be affected by round goby invasion. Abundance of perch, cyprinids, flounder, perch ( ≥20 cm total length), cod, pikeperch, and pike were increased with water temperature and were decreased with water depth and wave exposure. We observed a decreasing trend in the abundance of whitefish, sprat, and herring with an increase in water temperature and a decrease in water depth. Given the low abundance of several piscivorous species in the Baltic Sea and the role of predators to control exotic prey, reinforcing piscivore populations might be useful for the Baltic Sea ecosystem and regulating round goby populations at a local scale.
Optimizing breeding strategies for early-maturing white maize through genetic diversity and population structure
Authors: Mukiti Hellen Mawia , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Abe Ayodeji , Adejumobi Idris Ishola , Derera John
Published: February 2025

Maize production and productivity in sub-Saharan Africa are constrained by various factors. Assessing the genetic diversity of newly developed elite inbred lines can help identify lines with desirable genes and explore genetic relatedness for heterotic breeding. The objectives of this study were to assess the level of genetic diversity, and population structure, and identify appropriate clustering methods for assigning maize inbreds into heterotic groups. Three hundred and seventy-six elite inbreds extracted from three source populations were genotyped using Diversity Array Technology (DArTtag) mid-density platform. Results from 1904 of 3,305 SNP marker obtained revealed average marker polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.39, observed heterozygosity of 0.02, gene diversity of 0.37, minor allele frequency of 0.29, Shannon and Simpson indices of 6.86 and 949.09, respectively, and allele richness of 787.70. The optimum sub-population was three defined by an admixture-based model and principal component analysis. The average genetic distance was 0.303 varying from 0.03 (TZEI 2772 × TZEI 2761) to 0.372 (TZEI 2273 × TZEI 2832). For appropriate heterotic classification of the 376 elite inbreds, the use of IBS distance matrix and average linkage clustering method provided the highest cophenetic correlation coefficient (0.97). Three heterotic group (HG) were identified using IBS distance and average linkage clustering method with HG 1 have 188 inbreds, HG 2 having 137, and HG 3 having 59 inbreds. The pedigree-based phylogenetic tree showed substantial consistency with the heterotic groups identified. The F-statistics based on the underlying population structure revealed 10% variation among sub-populations and 90% variation within sub-populations with a moderate level of genetic differentiation (0.10). The elite inbred lines showed a high degree of genetic diversity, which could be beneficial for developing new, early-maturing white hybrids to mitigate production constraints in sub-Saharan Africa.