bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use Patterns of Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine System among American Women
Authors: Yeh Paul G. , Haas Allen , Sun Charlotte C. , Lu Karen H. , Meyer Larissa A. , Toumazis Iakovos
Published: February 2025

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) use is approved by the FDA for contraception and heavy menorrhagia. More importantly, it effectively treats endometrial hyperplasia, a precursor to endometrial cancer. Therefore, LNG-IUS use is associated with potential endometrial cancer risk reduction, but current use patterns in the United States are unknown. We analyzed LNG-IUS use prevalence among women ages 18 to 50 years using a weighted statistical analysis of the 2017 to 2019 National Survey of Family Growth. Summary statistics were stratified by race and ethnic group and known endometrial cancer sociodemographic and health risk factors and assessed statistically with bivariate Rao–Scott χ2 tests. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to explore LNG-IUS use predictors. Current LNG-IUS use in the United States was 6.9% [95% confidence interval (CI), 5.9%–8.1%]. LNG-IUS use was lower in Hispanic women compared with White women [adjusted OR (AOR), 0.7; 95% CI, 0.5–1.0]. Compared with women with ≤high school education, LNG-IUS use was higher for women with ≥college degree (AOR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.3–3.1). Parous (AOR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.7–3.9) and insured (AOR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0–3.1) women had higher odds of LNG-IUS use, whereas women with diabetes (AOR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1–0.7) had lower odds of LNG-IUS use. No differences in LNG-IUS use were observed by endometrial cancer risk factors of women’s body mass index, age of menarche, hypertension, and personal history of cancer. More research is needed to establish the potential benefits of LNG-IUS use on endometrial cancer, which will further highlight potential opportunities for population-level primary prevention to address the growing incidence of endometrial cancer.

Prevention Relevance: This study describes the characteristics of American women using the LNG-IUS. Reproductive-age women (especially Hispanic, with lower education, nulliparous, uninsured, and with diabetes) have lower LNG-IUS use odds. These groups may benefit from LNG-IUS use for endometrial cancer primary prevention, conditioned that LNG-IUS use is proven effective in reducing endometrial cancer incidence.
Table 1 from Stanniocalcin 1 in Patients with Refractory Colorectal Cancer Treated with Regorafenib: A Post Hoc Biomarker Analysis of the TEXCAN and CORRECT Trials
Authors: Vienot Angélique , Vernerey Dewi , Bouard Adeline , Klajer Elodie , Kim Stefano , Tournigand Christophe , Louvet Christophe , André Thierry , Rousseau Benoît , Wespiser Mylène , Spehner Laurie , Wang Ying A. , Weispfenning Anke , Dochy Emmanuelle , Borg Christophe
Published: February 2025

STC1 plasma protein expression in healthy donors and patients with previously untreated mCRC (EPITOPES-CRC02) and in the refractory setting (CORRECT)
Figure 3 from Stanniocalcin 1 in Patients with Refractory Colorectal Cancer Treated with Regorafenib: A Post Hoc Biomarker Analysis of the TEXCAN and CORRECT Trials
Authors: Vienot Angélique , Vernerey Dewi , Bouard Adeline , Klajer Elodie , Kim Stefano , Tournigand Christophe , Louvet Christophe , André Thierry , Rousseau Benoît , Wespiser Mylène , Spehner Laurie , Wang Ying A. , Weispfenning Anke , Dochy Emmanuelle , Borg Christophe
Published: February 2025

OS according to treatment (regorafenib vs. placebo) in patients with chemorefractory mCRC in the CORRECT trial in patients with (A) STC1-low levels or (B) STC1-high levels (optimized cut-off*). *Optimized STC1 plasma levels: STC1 low: <1,436.87 pg/mL; STC1 high: ≥1,436.87 pg/mL.
Learning Syntax Without Planting Trees: Understanding Hierarchical Generalization in Transformers
Authors: Ahuja Kabir , Balachandran Vidhisha , Panwar Madhur , He Tianxing , Smith Noah A. , Goyal Navin , Tsvetkov Yulia
Published: February 2025

Transformers trained on natural language data have been shown to exhibit hierarchical generalization without explicitly encoding any structural bias. In this work, we investigate sources of inductive bias in transformer models and their training that could cause such preference for hierarchical generalization. We extensively experiment with transformers trained on five synthetic, controlled datasets using several training objectives and show that, while objectives such as sequence-to-sequence modeling, classification, etc., often fail to lead to hierarchical generalization, the language modeling objective consistently leads to transformers generalizing hierarchically. We then study how different generalization behaviors emerge during the training by conducting pruning experiments that reveal the joint existence of subnetworks within the model implementing different generalizations. Finally, we take a Bayesian perspective to understand transformers’ preference for hierarchical generalization: We establish a correlation between whether transformers generalize hierarchically on a dataset and if the simplest explanation of that dataset is provided by a hierarchical grammar compared to regular grammars exhibiting linear generalization. Overall, our work presents new insights on the origins of hierarchical generalization in transformers and provides a theoretical framework for studying generalization in language models.
Included but Indecent?
Authors: Kaufman Tone Stangeland
Published: February 2025

This article discusses whether postcolonial perspectives are (at least partly) included but still implicitly, and particularly in terms of methodologies and epistemologies, regarded indecent in the field of empirical and practical theology, using the academic societies of the International Academy of Practical Theology (IAPT) and The International Society for Empirical Research in Theology (ISERT) and the related journals (IJPT and JET) as cases. Whilst drawing on Bonnie Miller-McLemore’s analysis of the IAPT in the 2017 paper “A Tale of Two Cities,” I also pick up the batton where she left it, and trace the development until the present day. To do so, the fields of empirical and practical theology are conceptualized as a social practice and more specifically as activity systems in the tradition of Engeström’s Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT).
Are there Public Effects of Religious Education?
Authors: Roleder Felix
Published: February 2025

This quantitative study examines the effects of religious education, in conjunction with other religious and non-religious factors, on the civic attitudes of Christians under the age of 30 in Germany. The multivariate analyses are based on a recent population representative sample (6th Church Membership Survey). The results provide modest evidence of a limited direct and indirect contribution of religious education to civic attitudes. In addition to a direct reduction in populist attitudes, school religious education is somewhat associated with acceptance of cultural diversity and immigration, thereby also indirectly decreasing the appeal of populism. However, the ambivalent role of young Christians’ religiosity is evident in relation to traditionalism and religious exclusivism, which are associated with a preference for cultural homogeneity and, consequently, an affinity with populism. These findings contribute to the understanding of the current crisis of the acceptance of democracy and underline the public dimension of religious education.
“God” is a Concept, God is Not? The Promise of Postcolonial Epistemology for the Use of Grounded Theory in Empirical Theology
Authors: Müller Sabrina , Pleizier Theo
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the intersection of theology, postcolonialism, and theory-building within empirical theology, highlighting the complex interplay between linguistic constructions and lived experiences of the divine. Drawing on postcolonial epistemology, the study advocates an inductive research strategy, particularly through the use of Grounded Theory methodology. It critically engages with ongoing debates within Grounded Theory, emphasizing the need for reflexivity in recognizing dominant discourses that may shape the researcher’s understanding of participants’ experiences. By examining specific case studies, the text illustrates how research participants’ attributions to God challenge conventional theological concepts, prompting a reconsideration of the nature of God-related language. Ultimately, this work calls for a nuanced understanding of empirical theology in which both “God” and lived religious experiences emerge as essential elements of theological discourse, urging scholars to remain attentive to the realities of participants’ lived faith.
Black soldier fly farming in Bangladesh: current practices, farmer’s challenges and future opportunities
Authors: Akanda M.A.B.R. , Hashem S. , Roy P. , Haque M.M. , Salam M.A.
Published: February 2025

Black soldier fly (BSF) farming provides a sustainable solution for waste management and animal feed costs. This study explores the current practices, challenges, and opportunities of BSF farming in Bangladesh through a survey of 60 farmers across 21 districts, using Kobo-Toolbox through a combination of Computer-assisted Personal and Telephonic Interview (CAPI and CATI) method with purposive and snowball sampling. Male-dominated (98.3%) farming, learned through YouTube tutorials (63.3%) with a motivation to reduce feed cost (35.1%) serves as the major driver of BSF farming in Bangladesh. A strong negative correlation (r2 = 0.7278, ) was observed between farmers’ economic (low-interest loans, 24.8%) and technical (farming training, 17.7%) needs. BSF, largely raised using fruit (19.0%) and vegetable waste (18.7%) are primarily used as live feed for fish (50.7%) and poultry (46.4%), with selling prices ranging from US$ 0.42-0.84/kg for fresh/live larvae, US$ 2.93-4.19/kg for pupae, US$ 0.042-0.13/kg for dried frass, and US$ 0.42-2.51/kg for eggs. Only 23.3% of farmers practiced substrate fermentation. Weighted scoring analysis highlighted marketing challenges (655.4) driven by inadequate storage facilities (186.3) as most prominent, followed by substrate sourcing (608.6) and daily-operational difficulties (566.7), linked to transportation issues (150.3) and temperature/humidity control (136.8), with no significant differences among these categories (F = 0.336, ). Factor analysis revealed farmers’ prioritization of economic benefits (pet food and cosmetics production) over environmental sustainability. Given the diverse prospects of BSF farming, further research is recommended to address farmers challenges, providing policy interventions including low-interest loans, farming training, and improved market infrastructure.
Disruptive Signification in a Hybrid Media Ecology: Civilisational Populism in Pakistan, Turkey and Indonesia
Authors: Yilmaz Ihsan , de Groot Heupner Susan , Morieson Nicholas , Bliuc Ana-Maria
Published: February 2025

This paper employs the ontic/ontological distinction to explore the relationship between religion and populism in Pakistan, Turkey, and Indonesia within a hybrid media ecology. Building on recent discussions of nationalism and populism, the study investigates civilizational populism through the lens of the ontic/ontological distinction, which separates the ‘content’ and ‘form’ of populism. This framework is critical for understanding how populist movements utilize religion to construct notions of ‘the nation,’ ‘the people,’ and ‘civilization.’ The paper examines how Islamic and Islamist positions intertwine with populist narratives, deconstructing the concept of religious populism and exploring how hybrid media dynamics support these constructions. Drawing on 164 semi-structured interviews with populist supporters conducted ahead of the 2023/2024 elections, the study analyses how religious and ideological identifications shape populist narratives. Hybrid media ecology emerges as a vital factor in sustaining the ontic and ontological dimensions of religious populism, amplifying emotional attachments to ‘us’ while intensifying antagonisms toward the ‘Other.’ The findings reveal how social and legacy media interact to mediate these dynamics, reinforcing populist imaginaries.
Two new species in Hieracium sect. Umbrosa (Asteraceae) from Mt. Babia Góra, Western Carpathians, Poland
Authors: SZELĄG ZBIGNIEW
Published: February 2025

Two apomictic, stenoendemic species in Hieracium sect. Umbrosa are described from Mt. Babia Góra in the Western Carpathians, southern Poland: Hieracium stanislai (2n = 4x) which is similar morphologically to H. crepidifolium from the Alps, and H. walasii (2n = 3x) which differs in brownish-purple spotted leaves from all other representatives of the H. umbrosum agg. Both new species are illustrated with photographs of the holotypes and live plants in the type localities.
Revision of the Pseudagrion red-group occurring in Asia west of Lydekker’s line, with description of four new species (Odonata: Coenagrionidae)
Authors: SEEHAUSEN MALTE , KALKMAN VINCENT J. , BEDJANIČ MATJAŽ
Published: February 2025

Species belonging to the Pseudagrion red-group, defined as Pseudagrion Selys, 1876 species with a predominantly reddish colour pattern at least when immature, occurring between the Indian Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the west, and the Indonesian Maluku Islands west of Lydekker’s line in the east are revised. A characterization of both sexes, and illustrations of the males, are provided for P. buenafei Müller, 1996, P. coriaceum Selys, 1876, P. crocops Selys, 1876, P. declaratum Lieftinck, 1936 stat. nov., P. deflexum Lieftinck, 1936 stat. nov., P. enganoense Lieftinck, 1948 stat. nov., P. obscurum Lieftinck, 1936 stat. nov., P. perfuscatum Lieftinck, 1937, P. pilidorsum Brauer, 1868, P. pruinosum pruinosum (Burmeister, 1839), P. pruinosum elongatum Needham, 1930 stat. nov., P. simalurum Lieftinck, 1948 stat. nov. (Female unknown), and P. ustum Selys, 1876. Also photographs of almost all respective name-bearing type specimens are provided, except for the female P. ustum. Pseudagrion pruinosum fraseri Schmidt, 1934 syn. nov., and P. pruinosum ranauense Schmidt, 1934 syn. nov. are considered junior synonyms of P. pruinosum pruinosum. Four new species are erected and illustrated: Pseudagrion acutidens sp. nov. (holotype ♂: acq.v.1933, Tobelo, Halmahera Island, North Maluku, Indonesia, approximately 1.724°N, 127.997°E, van Diejen leg., no. 1519102; deposited at Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden, the Netherlands); Pseudagrion halmaherae sp. nov. (holotype ♂: 7.–12.x.1951, Biaur, Halmahera Island, North Maluku province, Indonesia, 600 m a.s.l., approximately 1.3°N, 127.7°E, no. 1519084; deposited at Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden, the Netherlands); Pseudagrion igneum sp. nov. (holotype ♂: 8.xii.1998, Chiriyatapu, South Andaman, India, approximately 11.503°N, 92.702°E, ex. Coll. M. Hämäläinen, Wen-Chi Yeh, no. 1152912; deposited at Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden, the Netherlands); and Pseudagrion nigrihumerale sp. nov. (holotype ♂: 8.i.2001, Munak, Kamorta Island, Nicobar Islands, India, approximately 8.01°N, 93.505°E, Dr Prashant Mohanraj leg., ex. Coll. M. Hämäläinen, no. 1552778; deposited at Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden, the Netherlands). The difficulties in identifying P. pilidorsum in Borneo are briefly discussed. Distribution maps of the 16 species and one subspecies are provided, and field photos are presented of P. acutidens, P. coriaceum, P. crocops, P. declaratum, P. deflexum, P. igneum, P. perfuscatum, P. pilidorsum, P. pruinosum pruinosum, P. pruinosum elongatum, and P. ustum.
Synergistic reinforcement of HDPE biocomposites with kaolinite nanoparticles and alfa fiber: A path toward enhanced performance
Authors: Kablan Ebah , Nazih Fatima-Ezzahra , Bensalah Hala , Nekhlaoui Souad , Raji Marya , Essabir Hamid , Bouhfid Rachid , Qaiss Abou el Kacem
Published: February 2025

This study developed sustainable, cost-effective hybrid composites using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced with kaolinite particles (KP) and alfa short fibers (ASF) in varying volume fractions (15/0, 10/5, 7.5/7.5, 5/10, 0/15). Injection-molded composites were analyzed for mechanical, thermal, and rheological properties, revealing significant improvements in Young’s modulus (up to 61.60%) with KP and ASF additions. Hybrid composites (7.5:7.5 and 10:5) showed superior elasticity, while the 5:10 formulation achieved the highest storage modulus of 1874 MPa, outperforming pure HDPE (1035 MPa). Thermal analysis indicated stable KP-rich composites and progressive crystallization disruption with increasing filler content. To align experimental and theoretical results, the Young’s modulus for KP and ASF was estimated at 5000 MPa and 8500 MPa, respectively. The optimal 7.5:7.5 hybrid offered balanced mechanical and thermal performance with enhanced elasticity and reduced energy consumption during processing, demonstrating the potential of these hybrids as renewable, sustainable materials for automotive, construction, and sports applications.
Reframing the Most Important Special Education Policy Debate in 50 Years: How Versus Where to Educate Students With Disabilities in America’s Schools
Authors: Fuchs Douglas , Gilmour Allison F. , Wanzek Jeanne
Published: February 2025

For decades, there have been competing visions of how and where to educate students with disabilities (SWDs) in America’s K-12 schools. One conception is that general classrooms can accommodate the learning needs of virtually all children. A second approach calls for multiple placement options. Over the years, the context in which this disagreement has played out has changed as educators have shifted from a reliance on special classes to trust in general classes to enthusiasm for intensive instruction beyond the general class. Such variation in practice has influenced how researchers have explored relations between SWDs’ placement and their academic performance. Some of this research has been weak, producing unreliable findings. Some has generated more trustworthy results. All stakeholders would benefit from distinguishing the weaker studies from the stronger ones. Yet, to date, there has been an absence of such effort. In this paper, we provide a concise history of placement-achievement research and then review evidence spanning 50 years, bearing on how and where to educate SWDs. We conclude that the research on where to teach has generally been weak and inconclusive; the research on how to teach, stronger and more certain. Implications for educating SWDs are discussed.
The Trouble With Psychedelic Cacti: Conflicting Meanings of San Pedro and Peyote
Authors: Engel Liam B. , Low Mitchell
Published: February 2025

Using autoethnography, this article considers conflict surrounding the psychedelic, mescaline cacti, San Pedro, and Peyote. We reflect on themes emergent in the lead authors’ lived experiences with growing, researching and working with mescaline cacti; Indigenous culture, psychopharmacotherapy research, psychedelic markets and ecology. These themes are considered relative to varied San Pedro and Peyote stakeholders. Among these stakeholders, powers of medicine and prohibition dominate, but are also met with resistance.
Mixed Hemangioma of Tonsil: A Rare Localization of this Tumor
Authors: Amani Hachicha , Laajilia Rania , Ben Rjeb Sarra , Senda Turki
Published: February 2025

Hemangiomas are benign tumors of the blood vessels. Although most commonly associated with the skin, it can also occasionally be found in mucous membranes, the brain, and the viscera. The tonsillar localization is uncommon and rarely reported in the literature. The risk of bleeding complications and its impact on the upper airway can make the management of these tumors more complicated. We report the case of a 28-year-old patient, with no pathological history, who was referred to us to manage a formation in the left tonsillar region. The patient was completely asymptomatic. Physical examination showed a tumor originating from the upper pole of the left tonsil. The cervical computed tomography scan showed an iso-dense tissue formation at the expense of the left tonsillar region. The patient was operated on under general anesthesia and a resection of the tumor mass was performed without a hemorrhagic incident. The histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of mixed capillary and venous hemangioma and the resection was complete. The outcome was favorable after a 12-month follow-up. Tonsilla hemangiomas are a rare clinical entity that all ENT surgeons should be familiar with to better choose the treatment course to avoid bleeding complications and recurrences.
Rebels With(Out) a Cause: The Influence of Gender Inequality on the Relationship Between Egalitarianism and System Justification
Authors: Buhl Sarah , Osborne Danny , Sibley Chris G. , Asbrock Frank
Published: February 2025

In recent decades, women’s representation in power positions has increased alongside a global decline in anti-egalitarian biases. These egalitarian shifts provide the ideal context to examine the boundary conditions of the motivators of group-based inequality. Accordingly, we investigate the possibility that rising gender equality over the last 14 years has attenuated the relationship between group-based (anti-)egalitarianism (namely, social dominance orientation) and system justification. A multi-level analysis of longitudinal data from 43,924 women shows that anti-egalitarian beliefs predicted increases in system justification. However as hypothesized, increases in gender equality attenuated the positive correlation between anti-egalitarian beliefs and justification of the status quo. These associations were particularly pronounced among women from majoritized groups who benefit most from gender equality. Results replicate across robustness checks and offer a critical update to our understanding of egalitarianism by showing that egalitarians may engage in system justification when the status quo becomes more equal.
The Relationship Between Organizational Authenticity Perceptions and Employees’ Work Performance: Evidence From a Field Experiment
Authors: Eldor Liat
Published: February 2025

The concept of organizational authenticity—the consistency between an organization’s espoused values and its lived practices—has garnered considerable interest in academic discourse. While the authenticity literature has paid much attention to external stakeholders (e.g., clients), the notion of organizational authenticity perceptions of an important stakeholder—employees—has been understudied. Despite prior evidence of external stakeholders’ positive reactions to organizational authenticity perceptions, whether and how it can also affect employees and their work performance remains an open question. I undertook a randomized field experiment in a large, global consulting company to examine how employee perceptions of organizational authenticity affect their work performance. Compared with the control group, those who perceived their organization as authentic demonstrated higher performance. I show evidence that employee trust in the organization mediates the relationship between employee perceptions of organizational authenticity and work performance. Alternative mediators—organizational identification and organizational likability—did not explain this relationship. The study’s results advance the literature by revealing the important role of organizational authenticity perceptions among an internal stakeholder—employees—and the way it affects work performance.
Consolidating the Strata: Geoscience and Underground Territory in South Korean Radioactive Waste Disposal
Authors: Kim Sungeun
Published: February 2025

In South Korea, the nation with the world's highest density of nuclear power plants, the disposal of high-level radioactive waste has become a pressing sociotechnical concern. Faced with local residents’ refusal of disposal facilities, scientists at the national research institutes have been making their case that the nation's underground is a safe and trustworthy site for radioactive waste disposal. This paper examines three strategies used by government scientists to turn the underground into a reliable container of radioactive waste. First, their practice of mapping mitigates uncertainties about underground irregularities and produces a widely acceptable representation of strata. Second, scientists utilize simulations to contain long-term changes and extend their epistemological power into the far future. Third, scientists propagate their subterranean visions to a broader audience by using underground laboratories as a site of demonstration and persuasion. These spatial, temporal, and cultural strategies let scientists and the Korean government consolidate the strata into physically durable and politically governable territory. The analysis of geological disposal in South Korea asks us to move beyond the technopolitics of extraction to explore that burial as an increasingly important site for STS research.
The Freedom Paradox: Meanings and Configurations of Digital Nomadic Work
Authors: Toivanen Mari
Published: February 2025

The digitalization of professions and the new modes of (remote) work have resulted in an increase in work-related lifestyle mobilities such as digital nomadism. This paper deals with the meanings and configurations of digital nomadic work as recounted by digital nomads themselves. What meanings do digital nomads attach to digital nomadic work? What spatial or other configurations does digital nomadic work entail? What does the examination of meanings attached to digital nomadic work and its configurations tell us more broadly about the rising phenomenon of work on the move? The study data come from qualitative interviews with twenty digital nomads in Mallorca, Spain (2021–2022) and from observation in co-working and co-living spaces, networking meetings, and informal get-togethers. Although the nomads often described digital nomadic work as the opposite to traditional and classical nine-to-five office work, I argue that it should not be approached as such. The study findings show that despite expressing a strong anti-office sentiment and describing digital nomadic work as a way to escape “traditional office work,” digital nomads paradoxically end up “mimicking” and replicating the organizational aspects of office-based work. A closer examination of digital nomadic work's spatial configurations further shows that it has distinct temporal, material and performative dimensions, which is why it deserves analysis in its own right. More research is needed on the paradoxical aspects of digital nomadic work for us to understand whether digital nomadism, as a precursor to work-related mobilities, speaks of broader trends in mobile, digitalized work.
Terrestrial carbon uptake response to altered temperature and precipitation based on land surface model: A case study in Guizhou province, China
Authors: Huang Fengxian , Xuan Bingcheng , Gao Jiangbo , Liu Lulu , Zhang Yibo , Qu Shaodong
Published: February 2025

In the context of climate change, the climatic factors in the environment in which vegetation grows have changed significantly, with profound effects on the terrestrial carbon uptake process of photosynthesis. The total amount of carbon absorbed by photosynthesis is known as terrestrial carbon uptake, that is, the total primary productivity (GPP). It is of great significance to clarify the effects of climate factors on terrestrial carbon uptake and to analyze the characteristics of GPP changes in response to changes in temperature and precipitation in order to actively respond to climate change. This study proposes an integrated modeling approach to assess the impacts of temperature and precipitation changes on terrestrial carbon uptake. Firstly, the degree of influence of climate factors on GPP was analyzed. After analyzing historical trends in temperature and precipitation, we used a land surface model to simulate GPP under a range of projected warming and precipitation scenarios. It was found that temperature, precipitation, longwave radiation, shortwave radiation, and wind speed affected the vegetation GPP by 40.13%, of which temperature contributed 16.61% and precipitation 8.04% to the GPP. Over the last 20 years, temperature and precipitation have changed significantly, with both temperature and precipitation showing an increasing trend. As the temperature increased, GPP showed a decreasing trend from April to September, while showed an increasing trend from January to March and October to December. For every 0.1°C increase in temperature, the GPP of forests decreased by 1.68 gC/m2, while the GPP of grasslands was the least affected, with a 0.1°C increase in temperature resulting in a 1.01 gC/m2 decrease in the GPP of grasslands. Changes in precipitation had the greatest effect on grass, with a 10% increase in precipitation increasing the grass GPP by 6.44 gC/m2, while the least effect was on impervious surfaces, with a 10% increase in precipitation increasing the GPP by 2.42 gC/m2. This research contributes to understanding and predicting the impact of climate change on vegetation growth in southwestern China.
Improving patient engagement in mental health: Exploring the potential of pre-visit notes in Canadian care settings
Authors: Ramamoorthi Karishini , Kassam Iman , Lo Brian , Kimball Sarah , Strudwick Gillian
Published: February 2025

OurNotes is a movement that advocates for patient engagement by encouraging patients to contribute to their care through a pre-visit note, where they can comment on their health progress and prioritize topics for discussion with their clinicians. To date, pre-visit notes have been implemented in primary and acute care settings internationally, and their reception has generally been positive. However, their use in Canada and in mental health settings is limited. To address this gap, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 26 mental health clinicians, patients, and care partners. Barriers, facilitators, and recommendations to implementing pre-visit notes in Canadian mental health settings were identified. Overall, clinicians, patients, and care partners had positive perceptions towards pre-visit notes, indicating that they may serve as an innovative model for improving patient engagement and satisfaction in mental health settings. The barriers and facilitators identified, provide guidance for mental health organizations considering the implementation of pre-visit notes.
Role of environmental policy stringency, energy transition, and income in ensuring low-carbon environment: A time-frequency analysis
Authors: Kartal Mustafa Tevfik , Mukhtarov Shahriyar , Pata Ugur Korkut , Mammadov Jeyhun
Published: February 2025

Public interest concerning the environmental progress of economies has been developing across societies and countries. Such awareness requires dealing with energy, environment, and economic sides altogether. By considering this reality, this research investigates that how there is an effect of environmental policy stringency (EPS), energy transition index (ETI), and income (gross domestic product, GDP) on CO2 emissions. In doing so, the research analyzes BRICS countries, which are leading developing countries causing high emissions and consuming large amounts of energy, uses data between 2000/Q1 and 2020/Q4, and uses wavelet local multiple correlation approach to analyzes the nexus across times and frequencies. The results demonstrate that (i) EPS declines CO2 emissions in Brazil at low and high frequencies; (ii) GDP curbs CO2 emissions in India at high frequencies; (iii) across remaining times and frequencies, EPS, ETI, and GDP have a mixed effect in BRICS countries; (iv) based on four-variate cases, EPS, ETI, and GDP have an increasing combined effect on CO2 emissions across all times, frequencies, and countries; (v) the most dominant factor differs according to frequencies and countries, where ETI is mainly leading in Brazil, Russia, and India, EPS is pioneering in South Africa, and China has a mixed situation. Thus, the research empirically proves the diverging effects of EPS, ETI, and GDP on CO2 emissions across times, frequencies, and countries.
Degrowth as ideology: Making values for the soil of Amsterdam
Authors: Savini Federico
Published: February 2025

Degrowth research critiques the ideology of growth but does not explain how degrowth values gain public traction and turn into a new ideology. This article shows that degrowth values emerge from the contestation of institutions that maintain the growth imperative and the proposition of new institutions embodying alternative values. First, the article problematises the (counter)hegemonic challenge posed by degrowth, explaining why degrowth research needs to question the institutions that influence social practices. Second, it conceptualises degrowth as a double movement of contestation and proposition that works within and against the ideological apparatus sustaining the growth imperative. The historical struggle to save the Lutkemeerpolder in Amsterdam – the last remaining agricultural land in the city – shows how a degrowth ideology developed through the contestation of the institutional apparatus sustaining the growth of the airport-related industry. This struggle unfolded into a wider movement that has proposed new institutions embodying degrowth values such as commoning and conviviality.
Ageing and higher BMI explain movement control impairment distinctly better than chronic pain and its contributing factors: A cross-sectional study of 161 subjects with chronic low back pain and 42 pain-free controls
Authors: Mikkonen Jani , Reito Aleksi , Luomajoki Hannu , Airaksinen Olavi , Takatalo Jani , Pesonen Janne , Leinonen Ville
Published: February 2025

Background

Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of motor control impairments are among the most widely implemented management strategies for chronic low back pain (CLBP). Low back movement control tests described by Luomajoki et al. are reliable and valid for assessing the presence and severity of motor control impairment. However, very little is known about the importance of demographic and well-established CLBP contributing factors in explaining the presence and severity of any type of motor control impairment.

Objective

The study objectives were to evaluate the associations of the presence and the severity of movement control impairment with age, gender, BMI, CLBP and its intensity and duration, postural stability, self-reported central sensitization, kinesiophobia, and CLBP-related disability with logistic and ordinal regressions and Wald chi-squared tests.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 161 subjects with CLBP and 42 pain-free controls. The study was carried out in single private chiropractic clinic.

Results

Higher age and BMI were distinctly greater associated with a higher presence and severity of movement control impairment compared to the pain-related factors, namely the CLBP or its intensity or duration, central sensitization, kinesiophobia, and CLBP-related disability.

Conclusions

Results highlight the importance of considering demographic factors, such as age and BMI, when interpreting motor control impairment findings. Accordingly, the findings challenge the validity of testing motor control impairment in the management of CLBP.
Establishing an advanced nursing vascular access programme in a children’s hospital: A successful journey
Authors: Hsiao Yu-Feng Frank , Speekman Joseph
Published: February 2025

A description of our experience establishing an advanced nursing vascular access programme in a tertiary Children’s Hospital in Melbourne Australia; from need identification to executive approval, training programme development and deployment, equipment procurement and quality assurance.
Past imperfect: Transition narratives, popular discourses and The Informant
Authors: Hermann Veronika , Strausz László
Published: February 2025

Introduced in April 2022 on HBO Max, Hungarian coming-of-age espionage dramedy set in the mid-1980s, The Informant fits seamlessly into the trend of Eastern European contents that utilize global waves of nostalgia and socialist allegories to reference contemporary political issues. In this article, we propose that due to the specific situation of the totally centralized Hungarian media industry, and its capacity to rearticulate history in favor of the populist vision of the Orbán regime, the series goes much further than the aforementioned global trend. The television series effectively thematizes a fundamental doubt in the transition narrative as a teleological story with a universal moral lesson and injects an alternative interpretation of history into public discourses by proposing a third, critical space not overdetermined by the bipolar logic of contemporary right-wing populism. As such, the show utilizes a transnational – often highly stylized – image of socialism with the explicit goal of distancing itself from the discourses on individual moral responsibility, collaboration and resistance. The significance of this detachment consists in the fact that the language of moral responsibility has been effectively monopolized by the post-globalized, nationalist Hungarian state media, in which the forces of the nation are always cast in the roles of heroes, and anybody who does not agree as antiheroes. This in turn highlights the gap between the operational aesthetic of a transnational television series created for global audiences and the blind spots of the local cultural memory of the 1980s.
Older adults with cervical spine fractures – Epidemiology, management and outcomes from a level 1 trauma centre
Authors: Kimmel Lara A , Kirk Asher , Broderick Shane , Liew Susan , Burchall Gavin , Cameron Peter
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Cervical spine fractures are common in older adults, although reports of the epidemiology and outcomes of this patient cohort are scant. The aim of this study was to review the epidemiology, management and outcomes (hospital-based and patient-reported) of older patients with cervical fractures admitted to a level 1 trauma centre.

Methods

Patients aged ≥65 years who were admitted to The Alfred and included on the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) with a cervical spine fracture were included. Demographics and management (surgery, halo thoracic orthosis or conservative), as well as hospital and 6-month outcomes were analysed. Factors associated with cervical spine management and outcomes (discharge destination and being at home at 6 months post-injury) were assessed using logistic regression.

Results

Between 2016 and 2021, a total of 853 patients were included. Median age was 79 (IQR 72–86) years, with most (57.7%) being male. Low falls (59%) were common. Most patients were managed non-operatively [765 (89%)]. The median acute hospital length of stay was 6.8 (IQR 3.8–11.6) days and 90.6% of patients survived to hospital discharge. After adjusting for confounding factors, increasing age, female gender and having an intensive care unit stay were associated with discharge to another inpatient facility as well as not returning to live at home at 6 months. There was no association between the cervical spine management and 6-month quality of life outcomes.

Conclusion

Overall mortality rate was low with most patients returning to independent living at home 6 months post-injury. Considering those factors associated with poorer outcomes may provide useful information to determine optimal pathways for this cohort.
Magnetic field-induced codeposition of (Ni–Co) alloy coatings for better corrosion protection
Authors: Yathish Rai Thadagaje , Hegde Ampar Chitharanjan
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the benefit of induced magnetic field ( B) in the co-deposition of (Ni–Co) alloy coatings for better corrosion protection. The phenomenon of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) convection has been used as the tool to deposit (Ni–Co) alloy coatings of high corrosion protection from an electrolytic bath having low [Co+2] ions. Experimental studies demonstrated that under optimal conditions of magnetic field intensity ( B), magneto-electrodeposited (MED) coatings, developed under parallel (||) and perpendicular (⊥) magnetic field, are respectively about 3 times and 11 times more corrosion resistant than conventionally electrodeposited (ED) alloy coatings, developed from the same bath. The properties of MED (Ni–Co) alloy coatings were found to be changed with the direction of the applied B. The reasons responsible for improved corrosion performance of MED (Ni–Co) alloy were explained through FESEM, EDX and XRD analyses. Attempt has been made to understand changed properties of MED alloy coatings in the light of magnetic field controlled diffusion of Co+2 ions and increase in its limiting current density ( iL). The improved corrosion resistance of MED (Ni–Co) alloy coatings, compared to ED (Ni–Co) alloy coatings were attributed to its increased Co content, affected due to forced convection of magnetoelectrolysis, and experimental results are discussed.
Beyond the Comfort Zone: Strenuous Sports as a Preventive Tactic Against Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Zhang Wei , Li Gang , Hao Chengya , Cheng Aijun
Published: February 2025

Strenuous sports are associated with an enlarged prostate. However, the genetic causality of this association remains unclear. In this study, Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to explore the potential causal relationship between strenuous sports and prostatic hypertrophy. The study utilizes single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with strenuous sports obtained from published genome-wide association studies (GWAS), alongside summarized genetic data related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) from published GWAS. The primary analytical method used is the Inverse Variance-Weighted (IVW) approach for two-sample MR analysis. Heterogeneity of the results is assessed using Cochran’s Q-statistic, while horizontal pleiotropy is evaluated using MR-Egger. Sensitivity analyses include “leave-one-out” tests. The findings indicate a protective causal effect of strenuous sports on BPH (OR = 0.927, 95% CI: [0.870, 0.988]; p = .020). Results from the Weighted Median (WM) method (OR = 0.904, 95% CI: [0.837, 0.978]; p = .011) support this discovery. Using Mendelian randomization, the study provides reliable causal evidence linking high-intensity exercise to a reduced risk of BPH, overcoming biases seen in traditional observational studies. The study demonstrates a causal protective effect of strenuous sports on BPH, suggesting exercise as a preventive strategy for prostate health.
Impact of Ramadan Intermittent Fasting on Salivary pH, Flow Rate, and Electrolyte Levels in Healthy Adult Men
Authors: Yacoub Sinda , Khemiss Mehdi , Besbes Amira , Ben Saad Helmi
Published: February 2025

This before-and-after design study, which was conducted during Ramadan 2023, aimed to compare salivary flow rate (SFR), potential hydrogen (pH), and electrolyte concentrations before Ramadan (BR), at the end of Ramadan (ER), and after Ramadan (AR). Men aged 20 to 30 years who were fasting during Ramadan were recruited from the University of Monastir (Tunisia). Unstimulated saliva was collected over a 5-minute period between 10 and 11 a.m. at BR, ER, and AR. After recording the SFR, the pH was measured immediately using a pH meter. Concentrations of several salivary electrolytes (e.g., calcium, potassium, sodium, chloride, and phosphate) were determined using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. Twenty-seven participants completed all three sessions. Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF) caused significant changes only in calcium levels and pH. The mean (M)± standard deviation (SD) salivary calcium concentration decreased during ER compared to BR and AR (0.10 ± 0.08 vs. 0.21 ± 0.18 [ p = .041] vs. 0.22 ± 0.20 [ p = .026], respectively). The M± SD salivary pH increased during ER compared to BR (6.88 ± 0.23 vs. 6.69 ± 0.35 [ p = .049], respectively). To conclude, RIF decreased salivary calcium, increased salivary pH, and did not significantly affect potassium, sodium, chloride, or phosphate. The pH change, although statistically significant, was clinically insignificant, as values remained normal. The lack of reference values for salivary calcium limits assessment of its clinical impact. There is a need for further research on the effects of RIF on saliva secretion.
Assessing the aerodynamics of a shoulder amputee cyclist through computer fluid dynamics and different analytical procedures
Authors: Forte Pedro , Marinho Daniel A. , Monteiro António M. , Neiva Henrique P. , Sampaio Tatiana , Morais Jorge E. , Barbosa Tiago M.
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to compare the aerodynamics of a shoulder amputee cyclist through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and mathematical models. The geometry of the cyclist-bicycle system was collected by a Sense 3D scanner. The boundaries around the bicycle-cyclist system were defined on Ansys Workbench software. The velocities were set between 1 and 13 m/s with increments of 1 m/s. To compare the drag, ANOVA and simple linear regression models between CFD and mathematical models for absolute values and logarithmic transformations were used. No statistically significant variations between CFD and the analytical procedures were found (F = 0.335; p = 0.800; η2 = 0.021). The linear regression models between CFD and analytical procedures showed a very high adjustment for drag in absolute values for Pugh, Schneau, and Nonweiler (R2 = 0.996; Ra2 = 0.992; SEE = 0.933) and after logarithmic transformation (R2 = 0.996; Ra2 = 0.995; SEE = 0.046).
Impact of corticosteroids on the efficacy of first-line pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Roboubi Amytis , Wasielewski Eric , Bordier Soraya , Turlotte Amélie , Pavaut Geoffrey , Scherpereel Arnaud , Cortot Alexis , Gauvain Clément
Published: February 2025

Background:

Systemic corticosteroids (SCs) are associated with reduced survival in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) monotherapy. However, the current first-line standard of care usually involves combined chemotherapy (CT) and ICIs, and the effect of SCs on survival under combined CT and ICI has never been studied.

Objectives:

To investigate the association between SC therapy and survival under CT-ICI in advanced-stage NSCLC patients.

Design:

We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study of all advanced-stage NSCLC patients receiving first-line CT-ICI.

Methods:

The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) according to SC exposure status (⩾10 mg/day), adjusted in a multivariate Cox model for the following confounders: age, performance status, hospital admission prior to treatment, number of metastatic sites, brain metastases, bone metastases, PD-L1 status, and histological subtype. Multivariate analyses also explored the association between dosage and SC exposure duration and PFS.

Results:

Of the 193 included patients, 43 (22.3%) were receiving SCs, mainly because of symptomatic brain metastases (in 25/43 cases, 58%). In multivariate analysis, SC therapy at a 10 mg/day threshold was not associated with PFS (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77–2.03, p = 0.35). However, SC dose was negatively associated with PFS (HR = 1.08 per 10 mg/day increment, 95% CI 1.01–1.16, p = 0.01) especially at doses ⩾60 mg/day (HR = 3.27 per 10 mg/day increment, 95% CI 2.01–5.35, p < 0.001). Duration of SC therapy was not associated with PFS (HR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.81–1.15, p = 0.71), but SC therapy ⩾4 weeks prior to CT-ICI was associated with shorter PFS (HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01–1.14, p = 0.028).

Conclusion:

In this group of patients receiving first-line CT-ICI for advanced NSCLC, SCs at ⩾60 mg/day were associated with shorter PFS, but lower doses were not. Prolonged SC therapy prior to CT-ICI was associated with shorter PFS. Larger studies are required to confirm these results.