bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemodynamic Stability of Midazolam versus Remimazolam During Outpatient Genitourinary Interventional Radiology Procedures in a Patient With Aortic Stenosis: A Case Report
Authors: Bui Anastasia , Serafin Joanna , Shah Suken , Barnett Kara M.
Published: December 2024

Patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and other significant cardiopulmonary comorbidities are vulnerable to hemodynamic instability during anesthesia. This case report compares the use of remimazolam and midazolam in a 71-year-old man with symptomatic AS, chronic kidney disease, and ischemic cardiomyopathy. The patient underwent multiple short ambulatory interventional radiology procedures. While moderate sedation with midazolam resulted in significant hypotension, use of remimazolam in subsequent procedures demonstrated a stable hemodynamic profile despite increased disease burden. This report highlights the potential advantages of remimazolam compared to midazolam in high-risk patients undergoing interventional radiology procedures.
Palestinian Liberation and Zionist Ideology at the Western University
Authors: Elhalaby Esmat , Wind Maya
Published: December 2024

Israel's genocidal war on Gaza escalated in the fall of 2023 and sparked a mass student uprising across the world. This student intifada recentered universities as crucial battlegrounds and sites of mobilization for Palestinian liberation. Building on the liberated zones of the student movements of the 1960s and 1970s, students constructed their own “people's universities” through building encampments on their campuses. This essay traces the material and intellectual entanglements of the Western university with Zionism, profoundly contested by student organizers in recent months. It then shows how the current student uprising challenges long-held ideas about the “crisis” of the university and unsettles the very administrative and violent structures formed by the university as it reconstituted itself in response to the demands of previous student occupations. Finally, it asks what we might learn from this student uprising, which the essays that follow further explore.
The Camp and the Encampment: Reflections on Palestine Futures from the University of Toronto Student Encampment
Authors: Al-Shihabi Majd
Published: December 2024

The two-month encampment at the University of Toronto struggled to reach a deal with the university's administration. Despite its clear demands, based on the Palestinian civil society call for boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS), confusion abounded about the goals of the encampment and the tactics required for reaching them. The author compares the role of student encampments of 2024 to that of the Palestinian refugee camp at the dawn of the Palestinian revolution. The author reflects on the meaning of Palestinian liberation and modes of resistance to reach it, suggesting that it requires attending to the crises of climate change and capitalism to deliver a Palestinian political vision for desirable futures that guarantee the conditions for the flourishing of all humans on that land.
Validity of Urine Specific Gravity to Determine Hydration Status in NCAA Division I Male and Female Soccer Players
Authors: Lints Blaine S. , Stray-Gundersen Sten O. , Mastrofini Gianna F. , McFadden Bridget A. , Chandler Alexa J. , Walker Alan J. , Argetsinger Ryan M. , Arent Shawn M.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Urine specific gravity (USG) is commonly used for rapid determination of hydration status. However, it may not reflect true hydration status when compared to serum osmolality (Sosm). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the agreement between hydration status measured by USG and Sosm in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I soccer players.

Methods

Sixty-four NCAA Division I soccer players (n = 31 female) participated in the study. Fasting blood draws occurred in the morning at six timepoints for females and three timepoints for males. Repeated-measures correlations were used to assess relationships between USG and Sosm (α = 0.05).

Results

Mean Sosm was 287.60 ± 4.89 mOsm·kg−1 and mean USG was 1.024 ± 0.006. There was no significant correlation found between Sosm and USG in all subjects (r = −0.06, P = 0.36). Mean Sosm in females was 286.54 ± 5.24 mOsm·kg−1, and mean USG was 1.024 ± 0.006. In females, there was no significant correlation between Sosm and USG (r = −0.12, P = 0.16). Mean Sosm in males was 289.35 ± 5.57 mOsm·kg−1, and mean USG was 1.027 ± 0.031. In males, there was no significant correlation between Sosm and USG (r = 0.11, P = 0.42). Mean Sosm in females was significantly lower than in men (P = 0.04), but no significant differences were found between sexes for USG (P = 0.09). When assessed for sensitivity, females and males received scores of 78.79% and 83.02%, respectively, whereas the general sensitivity of all subjects was 81.40%. Assessment of specificity revealed that females and males received scores of 19.46% and 28.13%, respectively, whereas the general specificity of all subjects was 20.99%.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates a discordance between USG and Sosm. Although it lacked specificity in classifying euhydration, USG tended to classify an individual as hypohydrated compared to Sosm. Because USG may falsely classify an athlete as hypohydrated, additional measures of hydration status should be taken to avoid overhydration.
Partner violence in healthcare settings on breastfeeding mothers: a scientometric analysis
Authors: Wahyutri Endah
Published: December 2024

Background Partner violence is a significant issue affecting women’s health, particularly their breastfeeding practices in healthcare settings. Despite a considerable body of research on this topic, there is a need for a systematic overview of the existing literature to explore its thematic and structural developments. Methods This scientometric analysis covers a period of 45 years (1977-2022) and identifies 415 peer-reviewed articles published in English before 2023 from the Scopus database. The articles were included if they engaged with themes related to partner violence, healthcare settings, breastfeeding, and mothers, using predefined search terms and filters. Bibliometric data were decoded and visualized using VOSviewer and RStudio to analyze and visualize the scientific dialogue, trends, patterns, and networks in the literature regarding partner violence and its impact on breastfeeding mothers in healthcare settings. Results A total of 415 articles were identified, revealing key trends in research on partner violence and breastfeeding in healthcare settings. Seven pivotal clusters emerged: domestic violence and screening, nursing and substance abuse, pregnancy and depression, breastfeeding and HIV, childbirth and quality of care during the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses’ role in women’s Health, and Women’s Health and Violence. These clusters reflect key thematic areas, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the research, with a particular focus on mental health, reproductive health, and the role of healthcare providers. Emerging themes, such as the impact of COVID-19 and HIV on breastfeeding practices, further highlight the evolving research priorities. Conclusions This analysis provides a panoramic overview of the existing literature, revealing intricate thematic structures and collaboration networks within the research on partner violence and breastfeeding mothers in healthcare settings. The study not only sheds light on the historical and current states of research but also pinpoints potential future directions, thereby assisting scholars and policymakers in navigating and prioritizing subsequent investigative endeavors.
Preliminary Evidence of Human Plasmodium in Domestic Animals from a Malaria-Endemic Region in Indonesia
Authors: Munirah Munirah , Wahyuni Sitti , Wahid Isra , Hamid Firdaus
Published: December 2024

Background In Indonesia, malaria incidence is at a high rate despite maximum preventive efforts. Therefore, this study aims to determine the possibility of a Plasmodium reservoir among domestic animals in malaria-endemic areas. Methods Animal blood was collected using EDTA tubes, then smeared and stained with Giemsa for Plasmodium microscopic identification. About 10 μl of blood was dropped on to a filter paper to capture Plasmodium DNA. Nested PCR was used for parasite molecular detection, while Plasmodium species were identified using the sequenced DNA. Results A total of 208 and 62 animal blood samples were collected from Gaura village, West Sumba and Fakfak village, West Papua, Indonesia respectively. In total, 32 samples from Gaura contained P. falciparum or P. vivax, while the Plasmodium percentage in buffalo, horse, goat, and dogs were 20.7%, 14.3%, 5.8%, 16.7%, respectively. P. knowlesi was not found in any of the samples, and no other species were detected in 18 pig blood samples. Conclusion The human Plasmodium DNA in domestic animals within malaria-endemic regions suggests a potential link to the persistence and high prevalence of malaria in these areas. While the findings suggest a potential role of domestic animals in malaria transmission, they remain preliminary and do not definitively establish domestic animals as reservoirs. Further research is necessary to confirm these findings and to better understand the contribution of domestic animals to the transmission dynamics of malaria.
Future armed conflicts - A new point of view
Authors: Tomaszycki Marek , Smal Tomasz , Świętochowski Norbert
Published: December 2024

This article focusses on future wars and the resulting consequences for the development of the armed forces. The purpose of this study is to indicate the course of future armed conflicts on the base of the forecasts presented by the largest research centres as well as to signal the need to look at them from a new point of view, disregarding the current tense situation in the world. The subjects of the research are armed conflicts, and above all, the possible ways of conducting them in the future, as well as the domains in which they will be fought. The authors assume that the causes and forms of future armed conflicts will evolve. Changes will depend on the time and place of the outbreak of conflicts, the technology used, as well as the scale of their play. It is also assumed that future armed conflicts will take place in all domains, between equal opponents or between great powers and smaller states or organizations, which are weaker to them in every respect. In the paper, the authors took an attempt to answer the following questions: How will the geopolitical and economic situation in the world change, also in the context of progressing climate change? How will armed conflicts evolve in a changing world? How will future wars play out and what capabilities should military forces have to fight them? According to the analysis, the authors claim that future armed conflicts will: take place in all domains; require a rapid situation assessment and decisions; conducted in a complex environment; include hybrid strategies; increasingly difficult to resolve; non-linear; took the form of asymmetric activities; periodically conducted without electronic devices (an opponent can disable devices or track them); implemented by modular units capable of conducting independent activities at the lowest levels; saturated with robots and drones.
Impact of gut microbiota on the central nervous system relevance in neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases
Authors: Zatorska Oksana
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The gut microbiota plays an important role in regulating the function of the gut-brain axis. Incorrect dietary habits promote the development of metabolic syndrome, which negatively affects the biodiversity of the microbiome. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of the gut microbiota on the function of the gut-brain axis and the development of mental and neurodegenerative diseases.
Material and methods: A review of available literature was performed by searching the official databases PubMed and Google Scholar using the following keywords: metabolic syndrome, gut microbiome, metabolic microbiome, mental illness, neurodegenerative diseases with reference to original papers, meta-analyses and reviews in Polish, Ukrainian and English published in scientific journals and articles.
Results: Studies evaluating the role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases show promising results, suggesting that gut microbiota influences brain function by modulating the gut-brain axis, the immune system, and neurotransmitter production. Despite the growing evidence implicating microbiota in the development of diseases such as depression, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease, study results often remain inconsistent, which may be due to methodological differences, heterogeneity of study populations, and sample size limitations.
Conclusions: Further research on the influence of gut microbiota on the development of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases may contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of these disorders and the discovery of new strategies for their treatment and prevention. Further research in this direction is needed to better understand the influence of gut microbiota on psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.

Keywords: metabolic syndrome, mental illness, neurodegenerative diseases, gut microbiome, metabolic microbiome

Abbreviations: International Diabetes Federation (IDF), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), peptide YY (PYY), glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist (GLP-1), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), blood-brain barrier (BBB), central nervous system (CNS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), bipolar disorder (BD), Young's Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), World Health Organization (WHO), Parkinson’s disease (PD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Recognition and assessment of pain in people with advanced dementia
Authors: Kawalek Charlotte Lucy , Dening Karen Harrison
Published: December 2024

Pain is highly prevalent among older adults, equally affecting people with dementia and those without cognitive impairments. As dementia progresses, patients often develop difficulties in communication and it may impact their ability to self-report pain. Therefore, it is essential that nurses working with dementia patients understand how to recognise, assess and manage pain in this population. This article explores how pain affects people with dementia, especially those who cannot communicate their discomfort, and discusses how pain may present in these individuals. The article also offers guidance on assessing pain using observational tools. It highlights the importance of knowing the person and the valuable information provided by family caregivers. A hypothetical case study is used to consider some of the common issues in community nursing.
We've explored… a farm
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: December 2024

One setting in Derby visited a dairy farm so that its city-dwelling children could get up close to some of the animals living there, discovers Annette Rawstrone
"They Have Undertaken to Regulate our Palate": Racism and the Spatial Authoritarianism of Food Consumption during the Construction of the Panama Canal, 1904–1914
Authors: Evans Bryce
Published: December 2024

Abstract: This article builds on the seminal work of Olive Senior and others in exploring the lives of those who built the Panama Canal during its American phase of construction (1904–1914). However, its focus is different: specifically, the spaces of food consumption created by the American regime and the ideology which underpinned this process. Using contemporary "Panama authors" as its key primary source base, it argues that the ordering of food spaces as a public health measure exposed the racist assumptions framing the endeavour — whether in the public street, the mess house, the commissary, the hotel restaurant, or "in the bush". It shows how improvements in nutritional science, linking diet and disease, were undermined by the racist ideologies of American administrators. This ensured that local produce was relegated behind "safe" imported frozen American food and that the provision of food in the zone never adapted to meaningfully address adverse determinants by improving the attractiveness and quality of commensality for all.
Voice in Land Dayak Languages
Authors: Sommerlot Carly J.
Published: December 2024

Abstract: It has been noted that many languages spoken on the island of Borneo, Indonesia, represent a variety of different voice profiles. However, due to limited documentation, languages belonging to the Land Dayak subgroup have not been included in these prior discussions of voice. This paper represents a first step in describing the voice system in five Land Dayak languages, which diverges from the well-studied “Indonesian-type” and “Philippine-type” voice profiles and is characterized by a two-way distinction with limited morphological affixation and case marking, relying instead on word order and a preverbal analytic marker in the undergoer voice. While this patterns similarly to a “Central Bornean-type” voice system, Land Dayak languages showcase variation within this profile that suggests Central Bornean-type as a typology should be broadened. Land Dayak languages additionally show evidence of a nasal prefix N-, which functions not as a voice marker but as a transivitizer, contributing to a larger discussion on the role of (me)N- in the languages of Indonesia.
The Classification of Irarutu and Koiwai: A New Proposal
Authors: Schapper Antoinette , Zobel Erik
Published: December 2024

Abstract: The classification of Irarutu and Koiwai, two Austronesian languages spoken in the vicinity of New Guinea’s Bomberai Peninsula, is unresolved. Competing proposals variously link the languages to the South Halmahera–West New Guinea group and the Central Malayo-Polynesian group. This article makes a novel proposal, positing that Irarutu and Koiwai subgroup together and, in turn, places them in a higher subgroup with the Seram Laut languages.
Accuracy improvement of focusing and leveling sensors based on pupil phase modulation
Authors: Lan Ke , Liu Xiao , Jia Tingyuan , Pan Liandong , Cheng Jianrui , Li Yunfeng , Wang Xiangzhao , Chen Cailian
Published: December 2024

The focusing and leveling sensor (FLS) is crucial for achieving high-accuracy vertical measurements in lithography systems. To improve the vertical measurement accuracy of FLS in multilayer processes, this study explores the feasibility of reducing vertical measurement errors through pupil phase modulation, leveraging the Abbe imaging model and point spread function (PSF) engineering. Two approaches are proposed: installing phase-complementary optical path modulators (OPMs) or spiral phase plates (SPPs) into the optical path. A simulation model is built and experimentally validated, showing consistency in vertical measurement errors between simulations and experiments. The results indicate that when the spatial frequency of wafer surface reflectance due to process variation is 2.5 cycles/mm, introducing complementary OPMs or SSPs can reduce vertical measurement errors by approximately 92.3% and 81.2%, respectively. This demonstrates that both modulation methods effectively reduce vertical measurement errors, thereby improving the measurement accuracy of FLS. These methods offer significant insights for increasing process tolerance and improving the measurement accuracy of FLS in lithographic processes.
Relating Madelung–Bohm trajectories
Authors: Silva-Ortigoza Gilberto , Silva-Ortigoza Ramón , Julián-Macías Israel , Ortiz-Flores Jessica
Published: December 2024

In this work, we use the quantum potential approach to quantum mechanics to show that the Madelung–Bohm trajectories for a particle in a constant gravitational field can be related to those of a free particle by means of a quantum point transformation defined in the extended configuration space. We find that the point transformation also gives a connection between the corresponding quantum Hamiltonians determined by the solutions of the corresponding Schrödinger equations for these two problems. We show that the Madelung–Bohm trajectories determined by the stationary solutions to the Schrödinger equation for the particle in a constant gravitational field are straight ones, while the corresponding ones for the free particle are parabolic trajectories. The Airy beam is one example of this type of solution. We study the properties of a solution to the Schrödinger equation for a free particle with phase singularities (zeroes), and we find that the corresponding solution to the Schrödinger equation for the particle in a constant gravitational field also has zeroes at the same spacetime points. However, the Madelung–Bohm trajectories determined by the two solutions are totally different. Furthermore, we remark that similar results can be directly obtained for the paraxial wave equation.
Afterpulse correction of silicon single-photon detector for 1064-nm aerosol-lidar
Authors: Chen Qianyuan , Li Xiang , Yin Zhenping , Zhang Chengjun , Liu Xiangyu , You Lixing , Xu Guangzhao , Yi Yang , Wang Anzhou , Müller Detlef , Wang Xuan
Published: December 2024

Near-infrared enhanced silicon single-photon avalanche diodes (Si-SPADs) are widely used as detectors for 1064-nm aerosol lidars. However, Si-SPADs suffer from afterpulse miscounts. The superconducting nanowire single-photon detector (SNSPD) exhibits high QE and negligible rate of afterpulse miscounts. We have developed a lidar system that uses a fiber beam splitter (50:50 intensity ratio) which permits the simultaneous quantitative comparison of signal quality obtained with Si-SPAD and with SNSPD. In fact, SNSPD can be used as a reference for 1064-nm aerosol lidars. The experimental results demonstrate that the Si-SPAD exhibits non-negligible afterpulse miscounts, which affect the quantitative detection of aerosol optical properties. The probability density function of the afterpulse miscounts is calculated by measuring the count rates of the afterpulse caused by a hard target. Subsequently, an afterpulse correction algorithm has been developed. The algorithm reduces the error in the backscattering coefficient (β) by about 25% under the experimental conditions.
Limits of immersion-free recording of holographic waveguide displays
Authors: Feil Marvin , Wilm Tobias , Esslinger Moritz , Fiess Reinhold , Stork Wilhelm
Published: December 2024

This Letter discusses the limitations of immersion-free recording schemes for holographic waveguide displays. Traditional holographic recording of waveguides requires recording angles exceeding the critical angle of the hologram-cladding interface. Achieving these angles necessitates edge-lit exposure using prisms and immersion liquids, which are challenging for roll-to-roll mass production and hinder widespread adoption. We present analytical equations describing the set of holographic gratings that can be recorded immersion-free by utilizing recently proposed methods of wavelength and recording configuration shifting. We show that by appropriately choosing the recording polarization, superficial holograms can be mitigated and large effective index modulation can be achieved. Our results demonstrate that all relevant red, green, and blue (RGB) incouplers for typical reflective holographic waveguide displays in a photopolymer can be recorded and copied immersion-free, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs. However, typical expanders cannot. These findings contribute to the industrialization of holographic waveguides for augmented reality (AR).
The role of trait mindfulness in moderating climate distress during wildfire season
Authors: Guan Joanna Y. , Dutcher Ethan G. , Goldin Philippe , Ahmadi Sarah E. , Fromer Elena , Weiser Sheri D. , Maibach Edward , Prather Aric A. , Epel Elissa S.
Published: December 2024

Extreme worry about climate change can lead to maladaptive climate distress, defined as avoiding negative thoughts and feelings about climate. Avoiding negative thoughts and feelings (“experiential avoidance”) is a risk factor for clinical depression and anxiety. Greater ability for mindful metacognition may lead to greater tolerance of negative feelings and thus less maladaptive climate distress. To test this hypothesis, we assessed climate distress in a community sample of adults (n = 501) from the San Francisco Bay Area, before and after the severe wildfire season in 2021. Specifically, we measured experiential avoidance of distress about climate at baseline and 6 months later after the wildfire season. At baseline, climate distress was higher in women, and among people with lower trait mindfulness, higher generalized anxiety, and more liberal political ideology. Climate distress significantly increased across the sample after the wildfire season. However, this increase occurred in individuals with low mindfulness, but not high mindfulness, at baseline. As climate disasters become more frequent and severe, the ability to face the existential threat without severe distress will be an important adaptive ability and is hypothesized to help people stay engaged in climate actions. Here, we show that mindfulness may be a useful aid in maintaining lower climate distress over time, despite wildfire exposure.
Midwife-led birthing centre in the humanitarian setup: An experience from the Rohingya camp, Bangladesh
Authors: Halim Abdul , Abdullah Abu Sayeed Md. , Rahman Fazlur , Bazirete Oliva , Turkmani Sabera , Hughes Kirsty , Lopes Sofia Castro , Nove Andrea , Forrester Mandy , Scarf Vanessa , Callander Emily , Homer Caroline S. E.
Published: December 2024

In Bangladesh, Midwife Led Birthing Centres (MLBCs) have been established to provide midwifery care and sexual and reproductive health services for the displaced Rohingya population in Cox’s Bazar. The aim of this study was to explore MLBCs in this humanitarian context from the perspectives of women, midwives, and other key stakeholders. A mixed-method case study was conducted at one of the MLBCs within the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. The MLBC serves a population of approximately 8,500 people. Quantitative data were collected from the medical records and documents of the MLBC. Qualitative data included two key informant interviews (KIIs) with policy makers, one focus group discussion (FGD) with 7 midwives and ten in-depth interviews (IDIs) with Rohingya women who gave birth in this MLBC. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was performed. In 2022, 267 women gave birth at the MLBC, and 70 women with complications were transferred to higher-level facilities. Women chose the MLBC because of the respectful care provided by kind and skillful midwives, and the high-quality services. The MLBC was often recommended by community volunteers and relatives. Midwives provided a range of health services including antenatal, labour and birth, postnatal, family planning, mental health support and gender-based violence services. Challenges included language barriers, difficulty obtaining transport from home and back particularly at night in remote areas, security fears and weak cell phone coverage that affected communication for referral and follow-up. Recommendations included increased support and security staff, establishing a referral hospital nearer to the camp, refresher training for midwives and monitoring, and mentoring to improve service quality. The MLBC in the Rohingya camp shows that respectful midwifery care including management and referral of obstetric complications with wider sexual and reproductive health services can be provided in a humanitarian setting to optimize maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
Creating simple predictive models in ecology, conservation and environmental policy based on Bayesian belief networks
Authors: Dominguez Almela Victoria , Croker Abigail R. , Stafford Richard
Published: December 2024

Predictive models are often complex to produce and interpret, yet can offer valuable insights for management, conservation and policy-making. Here we introduce a new modelling tool (the R package ‘BBNet’), which is simple to use, and requires little mathematical or computer programming background. By using straightforward concepts to describe interactions between model components, predictive models can be effectively constructed using basic spreadsheet tools and loaded into the R package. These models can be analysed, visualised, and sensitivity tested to assess how information flows through the system’s components and provide predictions for future outcomes of the systems. This paper provides a theoretical background to the models, which are modified Bayesian belief networks (BBNs), and an overview of how the package can be used. The models are not fully quantitative, but outcomes between different modelled scenarios can be considered ordinally (i.e. ranked from ‘best’ to ‘worse’). Parameterisation of models can also be through data, literature, expert opinion, questionnaires and/or surveys of opinion, which are expressed as a simple ‘weak’ to ‘very strong’ or 1–4 integer value for interactions between model components. While we have focussed on the use of the models in environmental and ecological problems (including with links to management and social outcomes), their application does not need to be restricted to these disciplines, and use in financial systems, molecular biology, political sciences and many other disciplines are possible.
Systematic review of exercise for the treatment of pediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Smith Martha R. , Yu Elizabeth L. , Malki Ghattas J. , Newton Kimberly P. , Goyal Nidhi P. , Heskett Karen M. , Schwimmer Jeffrey B.
Published: December 2024

Background & aims

Steatotic liver disease affects approximately 1 in 10 children in the U.S. and increases the risk of cirrhosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle modification centered on increased physical activity and dietary improvement is the primary management approach. However, significant gaps in the literature hinder the establishment of exercise as a targeted therapeutic strategy for pediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We performed a systematic review of studies assessing the impact of exercise interventions on validated hepatic outcomes in children with NAFLD.

Methods

We searched CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Google Scholar on June 5 and 6, 2023, for studies in English involving children aged 0 to 19 years diagnosed with NAFLD or at increased risk for NAFLD due to overweight or obesity. We updated the search on August 8, 2024. Eligible studies were required to examine the impact of exercise interventions on hepatic steatosis or liver chemistry. The risk of bias was assessed with RoB2 and ROBINS-I. Data extraction was performed by two independent reviewers.

Results

After screening 1578 unique records, 16 studies involving 998 children were included. This comprised seven studies comparing exercise intervention with non-exercising controls, three uncontrolled studies of exercise intervention, two studies comparing exercise plus lifestyle interventions with lifestyle interventions alone, and nine studies comparing different types of exercise interventions. Five of the 11 studies that evaluated hepatic steatosis reported an absolute decrease of 1% to 3%. In the nine studies that evaluated liver chemistry, no significant changes were observed.

Conclusions

Evidence supporting exercise intervention for the treatment of pediatric MASLD is limited. Existing studies were constrained by their methodological approaches; thus, there is a pressing need for high-quality future research. This will enable the development of precise, evidence-based exercise guidelines crucial for the effective clinical management of this condition.
Misleading content on encrypted platforms in Chile: WhatsApp vs. Telegram during constitutional elections
Authors: Santos Marcelo , Bustamante-Pavez Guillermo , Flores Antonia , Fuentes Jorge Luiz Ortiz
Published: December 2024

Misinformation via instant messaging apps in electoral times has grown to be a problem in Latin America lately. Doing a content analysis on most circulated messages on 300 WhatsApp and 42 Telegram chats two months before an electoral process in Chile, we explore an initial approach to a comparative study on the patterns of political information interchange with a particular focus on the magnitude, types and content of misinformation circulated on both platforms in Chile within politically oriented right-leaning groups on both platforms. Among the differences between platforms, we find that while WhatsApp is being used by the groups aligned with more extreme right-wing positions to coordinate campaigns, debate the contingency and spread both info and misinformation, Telegram is centred on deeper conspiratorial groups that merge national and international contingency, UN rejection and anti-vaccine, anticommunist discourse and radical calls for action such as the mobilization for a military coup.
Parliamentary discourse and fact-checkers: Strategies of verification and political agenda
Authors: Campos-Domínguez Eva , Renedo-Farpón Cristina
Published: December 2024

Disinformation, a pervasive issue in contemporary society, significantly influences citizens’ political decision-making. In response, fact-checking has emerged as a prominent movement, striving to enhance journalistic standards. Although this trend has sparked substantial academic research, only a few studies have thoroughly examined the impact of these journalistic practices on society. Moreover, while fact-checking agencies monitor parliamentary messages, research on the interplay between fact-checkers and legislative activity remains in its infancy. This research addresses the role of fact-checkers in the context of parliamentary disinformation in Spain and their presence in the speeches of MPs, as well as the importance given by fact-checking agencies themselves to parliamentary speeches and the perception citizens have when discussing disinformation. We are interested in knowing what presence they have in parliamentary speeches, what importance the fact-checkers themselves give to parliamentary speeches and what perception citizens have of them when disinformation in parliament is discussed. To this aim, we propose a mixed methodological approach in three phases: (1) documentary analysis of disinformation published in the Bulletins of Congress and the Spanish Parliament, as well as in the speeches made by the Joint Commission on National Security; (2) in-depth interviews with three journalists from the main Spanish verification agencies working on parliamentary activity: Newtral, Maldita and Efe Verifica; (3) citizen focus groups to address different questions about the ecosystem of information disinformation in Spain. The results show growing attention to disinformation in the parliamentary context; verifiers occupy a relevant space in the political discourse, even replacing mentions of traditional journalists when discussing disinformation, and this contrasts with the lack of recognition by citizens who, despite referring to it as a problem for democracy, barely mention the work of verification agencies in their discourse.
German higher education managers in the multiple hybrid university and their positioning with respect to third space
Authors: Hoelscher Michael , Lauer Jan
Published: December 2024

Based on a re-analysis of data from the KaWuM and WiMaKo research projects, this article furthers our understanding of higher education management in German universities by focusing on communicative skills and competences, as opposed to roles and job descriptions. While higher education management is a relatively heterogeneous field of activity, resulting in a huge variety of different higher education manager roles, we argue that similarities between these managers are found in the skills and competences they need to cope in the unique organisation of the university. German universities can be described as multiple hybrid organisations, characterised by their many structural inconsistencies in their key decision premises. As a result, third space opens up between three university subsystems: academia, administration and leadership roles (mainly the presidium). We suggest that higher education managers need communicative skills and competences, in particular negotiation and mediation, to work in the third space bridging these three subsystems. It is proposed, therefore, that future research on higher education managers should focus more on their skills and competences than on precise tasks, as outlined, for example, in a job description.
MRI without contrast enhancement is a highly accurate method of imaging insulinoma
Authors: Yukina M. Yu. , Troshina E. A. , Nuralieva N. F. , Tarbaeva N. V. , Rebrova O. Yu. , Mokrysheva N. G.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: According to the literature, there are contradictory results regarding the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) without contrast enhancement (CE) in insulinoma, and studies that analyze the factors influencing the obtaining of false negative results have not been described.

AIM: Evaluation of the operational characteristics of MRI imaging of insulinoma without CE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Imaging studies of the abdominal cavity and retroperitoneal space were performed in patients with suspected nondiabetic hypoglycemia (NDH): MRI without CE (index test) and CT with CE (first row reference test). Ultrasound examination was used as a reference test of the second row, and arteriostimulated venous blood sampling was used in the third row. The diagnosis of NDH and insulinoma was established based on the detection of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia during laboratory examination and confirmation of the presence of a pancreatic tumor.

RESULTS: 125 patients with insulinoma and 55 patients with other causes of NDH were included. The sensitivity of MRI without CE in the diagnosis of insulinoma was 94%, 95% CI [89%; 98%], specificity — 98%, 95% CI [90%; 100%], prognostic value of a positive result — 99%, 95% CI [95%; 100%], prognostic value of a negative result is 87%, 95% CI [76%; 94%]. The Kappa index of agreement with the final diagnosis was 0.886 (95% CI [0.814; 0.958]), which corresponds to excellent agreement, with CT — 0.750 (95% CI [0.651; 0.850]), which corresponds to significant agreement.

In a comparative analysis of the tomographic and pathomorphological characteristics of insulinoma, in cases with divergent results when using MRI without CE and CT with CE, significant differences in structure, shape, contour features, localization and degree of malignancy of the tumor, as well as the structure of its surrounding parenchyma were not revealed.

In the presented sample, the insulinoma has a median size of 14–15 mm with the median optical density in the native phase of CT 42–44 units.H, hyperintensivity on T2-weighted MRI images in 89%, 95% CI [78%; 95%] cases and low Grade 1 malignancy in 70%, 95% CI [56%; 81%] cases.

CONCLUSION: CT with CE and MRI without CE are characterized by significant agreement in the diagnosis of insulinoma. In this regard, as well as due to the lack of radiation exposure and the strict need for contrast agents, MRI without CE can be recommended as a first-line method on a par with abdominal ultrasound and CT with CE to detect insulinoma.
Diversity and Abundance of Mangrove Gastropods in Setiu Wetlands and Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Baharuddin Nursalwa , Satyanarayana Behara
Published: December 2024

Mangrove gastropods, a highly diverse group of mollusks, play a critical yet often overlooked role in mangrove ecosystems. This study investigates the distribution and abundance of mangrove gastropods in two study sites with distinct management regimes: Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve (MMFR) and Setiu Wetlands (SW) in Peninsular Malaysia. Gastropod sampling was conducted over two days in April 2023, with one-hour visual encounter surveys performed at each study site per day. A total of 3,717 individuals, representing 26 species, were collected across both study sites. The family Ellobiidae was predominant in MMFR, while the family Littorinidae dominated in SW. Despite the higher biodiversity of both mud-dwelling and tree-dwelling species observed in MMFR, the overall low abundance of gastropods indicates negative impacts from greenwood exploitation and the widespread monoculture of Rhizophora spp. In contrast, the reduced diversity of mud-dwelling species in SW may be attributed to suboptimal sediment conditions caused by a shifted Setiu River mouth, low freshwater discharge, and increased sedimentation. This study provides precise assessments of species distribution across various microhabitats, offering essential baseline data for future ecological monitoring. Improved management practices, including habitat restoration, protection of biodiversity hotspots, and community engagement, are critical for sustaining gastropod populations and ensuring the long-term health and resilience of these vital coastal ecosystems. The findings highlight the sensitivity of gastropods to environmental changes and emphasize the need for adaptive conservation strategies to mitigate human impacts on mangrove ecosystems. This study serves as a foundation for developing effective conservation strategies to protect mangrove ecosystems, crucial for maintaining gastropod populations and the overall health of coastal ecosystems.
Chlorophyll-a Outliers in the Banda Sea and its surroundings: Implications for Ecosystem Dynamics
Authors: Asuhadi Sunarwan , Zainuddin Mukti , Safruddin Safruddin , Musbir Musbir , Syah Achmad Fachruddin
Published: December 2024

Chlorophyll-a concentration is a critical indicator of marine ecosystem health, reflecting primary productivity and potential ecological changes. However, the occurrence of outlier data in the Banda Sea and its surroundings has not been sufficiently studied. This study aims to investigate the dynamics of chlorophyll-a concentration outliers in the Banda Sea, focusing on their spatial and temporal patterns from 2010 to 2022. Data were acquired from MODIS satellite imagery and analyzed using R Studio for time series decomposition, while spatial patterns were explored with ArcGIS 10.8 and Google Maps to pinpoint key hotspots of outlier activity. The findings reveal fluctuating chlorophyll-a outliers with extreme concentrations ranging from 14.39 to 81 mg·m⁻³. Temporally, these outliers are predominantly observed in the western Banda Sea during January to March and December, while in the eastern Banda Sea they occur from June to September. Spatially, these anomalies are concentrated in areas of significant human activity, particularly in Tolo Bay, suggesting a potential link between anthropogenic influences and ecological disruptions. Field monitoring in areas with persistent outliers is strongly recommended to verify actual conditions and assess their ecological impacts. While chlorophyll-a plays a vital role in marine productivity, excessive concentrations can disrupt ecosystems, potentially leading to harmful algal blooms or hypoxic conditions. This study underscores the importance of integrating remote sensing, field validation, and spatial analysis to effectively monitor and manage these anomalies. Enhanced understanding of these dynamics is critical for informed decision-making and sustainable marine management practices in the Banda Sea.
Tracing Heavy Metal Dynamics in Mangrove Sediments: A Study from Ujung Kulon National Park
Authors: Shintianata Dienda , Lubis Ali Arman , Sugiharto Untung , Andini Faza Putri , Meiliastri Sonia Saraswati , Elias Md Suhaimi
Published: December 2024

The dynamics of heavy metal concentrations in the sediments of mangroves are crucial for understanding the health and sustainability of these ecosystems. This study, conducted in a conservation area of Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP) in Indonesia, investigated the distribution of heavy metals in mangrove sediments, which are vital in trapping these potentially harmful substances due to their absorption, sedimentation, and bioaccumulation capabilities. By analyzing sediment cores from different intertidal zones (interior, fringe, and mudflat) through Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES), this study examined concentrations and distribution patterns of six heavy metals: manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), and Iron (Fe). The results indicated that the average concentration of heavy metals followed a decreasing order of Fe> Mn > Zn > Cu > Cr> Co across all locations. All of the heavy metals in the interior and fringe increased gradually from the year 1900 to the present; on the contrary, the mudflat decreased over the same period. Enrichment Factor (EF) and Geo Accumulation Index (Igeo) were used to evaluate heavy metal pollution levels comprehensively. The study revealed temporal trends in heavy metal concentrations, highlighting the need for further research to mitigate these contaminant's effects on mangrove ecosystems. By integrating the EF, the Igeo index, and quality standards, the research demonstrates that UKNP is likely pristine. Furthermore, this work emphasizes the need to utilize dated environmental archives to reconstruct historical patterns in trace metal pollution in locations where long-term environmental studies remain particularly limited
Exploring the wound healing potential of Ixora coccinea and Rhododendron arboreum formulation: integrating experimental and computational approaches
Authors: Bharathy Pavithra , Thanikachalam Punniyakoti Veeraveedu , Moses Allen Christopher , Balakrishnan Dinesh Kumar
Published: December 2024

Background

Wound healing is a complex biological process involving numerous cellular and molecular events. Ixora coccinea and Rhododendron arboreum flowers have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties, prompting an investigation into their combined effects on wound healing using both in vitro and in silico approaches.

Methods

Ixora and Rhododendron flowers were processed in a 1:1 ratio using an ethanolic solvent. Various concentrations of the extracts were applied to wounded mouse fibroblast cell monolayers (3T3-L1). Antioxidant potential was evaluated by DPPH and H2O2 assays, while anti-inflammatory effects were assessed using BSA and EA assays. Wound closure kinetics were monitored with image analysis software. Molecular docking studies examined interactions between active compounds and essential wound-healing proteins.

Results

The formulations inhibited ROS production at a low concentration (IC50∼1.38 μg/mL), indicating suitability for managing oxidative stress. The extracts also showed protein denaturation inhibition with an IC50 value of 14.5 μg/mL for BSA and 8.3 μg/mL for EA. In vitro, the combined extracts significantly enhanced wound closure compared to control groups, with higher concentrations (40 μg/mL) accelerating closure rates (99.66 %). Molecular docking revealed interactions between key compounds (Quercetin, Rutin) and essential wound healing proteins (MMP9, TGFβ1, IGFR), suggesting mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects.

Conclusion

In vitro and in silico findings suggest that Ixora and Rhododendron flower extracts promote wound closure and their interaction with key proteins in wound healing pathways, highlighting their potential therapeutic value.