bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the role of epigenetic modifications of HPA axis in posttraumatic stress disorder and resilience
Authors: Khan Zainab , Messiri Nour El , Iqbal Emann , Hassan Hadi , Tanweer Mohammad S. , Sadia Syeda R. , Taj Moizzuddin , Zaidi Umar , Yusuf Kamran , Syed Naweed I. , Zaidi Mukarram
Published: January 2025

Stress is a fundamental adaptive response that invokes amygdala and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis along with other brain regions. Extreme or chronic stress, however, can result in a multitude of neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety, paranoia, bipolar disorder (BP), major depressive disorder (MDD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite widespread exposure to trauma (70.4%), the incidence of PTSD is relatively low (6.8%), suggesting that either individual susceptibility or adaptability driven by epigenetic and genetic mechanisms are likely at play. PTSD takes hold from exposure to traumatic events, such as death threats or severe abuse, with its severity being impacted by the magnitude of trauma, its frequency, and the nature. This comprehensive review examines how traumatic experiences and epigenetic modifications in hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA), such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNAs, and chromatin remodeling, are transmitted across generations, and impact genes such as FKBP prolyl isomerase 5 ( FKBP5), nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 ( NR3C1), brain-derived neurotrophic factor ( BDNF), and solute carrier family 6 member 4 ( SLC6A4). It also provides a comprehensive overview on trauma reversal, resilience mechanisms, and pro-resilience factors such as histone acetyltransferases (HATs)/histone deacetylases (HDACs) ratio, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)/cortisol ratio, testosterone levels, and neuropeptide Y, thus highlighting potential therapeutic approaches for trauma-related disorders. The studies highlighted here underscore the narrative, for the first time, that the examination and treatment of PTSD and other depressive disorders must invoke a multitude of approaches to seek out the most effective and personalized strategies. We also hope that the discussion emanating from this review will also inform government policies directed toward intergenerational trauma and PTSD.
Supplementary Data Table T3 from Clinical Proteomics Reveals Vulnerabilities in Noninvasive Breast Ductal Carcinoma and Drives Personalized Treatment Strategies
Authors: Mitsa Georgia , Florianova Livia , Lafleur Josiane , Aguilar-Mahecha Adriana , Zahedi Rene P. , del Rincon Sonia V. , Basik Mark , Borchers Christoph H. , Batist Gerald
Published: January 2025

LFQ data DCIS mixed vs IDC mixed
Figure 4 from Clinical Proteomics Reveals Vulnerabilities in Noninvasive Breast Ductal Carcinoma and Drives Personalized Treatment Strategies
Authors: Mitsa Georgia , Florianova Livia , Lafleur Josiane , Aguilar-Mahecha Adriana , Zahedi Rene P. , del Rincon Sonia V. , Basik Mark , Borchers Christoph H. , Batist Gerald
Published: January 2025

Dysregulation of central energy metabolism is a key event in the DCIS tumor phenotype. A, Graphical representation of hallmarks of cancer [modified from (82)] characteristic for proteomic tumor profiling of DCIS and IDC tumors. B, Top 5 canonical pathways from Ingenuity Pathway Analysis on DEPs in 42 DCIS and 31 IDC tumors. C, Signature proteins potentially driving DCIS progression through glycolysis, hypoxia (or “pseudohypoxia”), and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, identified by GSEA. D, STRING network showing the protein expression profile of signature proteins associated with cancer metabolism, RNA regulation, and major cancer pathways, such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR and EGFR/RAS/RAF. Absolute concentration of the proteins was determined by PRM. The color of the nodes represents q values from multiple hypothesis testing using unpaired t tests with post hoc correction using the Benjamini–Krieger FDR method (1% FDR). The node size represents the FC. Gray nodes were not quantified, either because no SIS/NAT was available or because there were more than 60% missing values. Edges represent physical and/or functional interaction partners based on the STRING database.
An Overview of Early-Life Gut Microbiota Modulation Strategies
Authors: Szajewska Hania
Published: January 2025

Background:: The gut microbiota, or microbiome, is essential for human health. Early-life factors such as delivery mode, diet, and antibiotic use shape its composition, impacting both short- and long-term health outcomes. Dysbiosis, or alterations in the gut microbiota, is linked to conditions such as allergies, asthma, obesity, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants. Summary:: This article reviews current strategies to influence the early-life gut microbiome and their potential health impacts. It also briefly summarizes guidelines on using biotics for gastrointestinal and allergic diseases in children. Key strategies include vaginal or fecal microbiota transplantation for cesarean-born infants, breastfeeding, and biotic-supplemented formulas. While vaginal microbial transfer and maternal fecal microbiota transplantation show short-term benefits, further research is needed to determine long-term safety and efficacy. Breast milk, rich in human milk oligosaccharides, promotes a healthy microbiota and offers protection against infections. Biotic-supplemented formulas can improve the gut microbiota in formula-fed infants and show clinical effects, though each biotic must be evaluated separately. Probiotics given as dietary supplements outside of infant formulas show promise for treating gastrointestinal disorders but require further investigation.
Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors in Diabetic Kidney Disease and Beyond
Authors: Hannouneh Zein Alabdin , Cervantes C. Elena , Hanouneh Mohamad , Atta Mohammad G.
Published: January 2025

Background
Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have significantly impacted the management of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and heart failure (HF), providing benefits beyond glycemic control. This review examines the mechanisms through which SGLT2is provide renal and cardiovascular protection and assesses their clinical efficacy.

Summary

By inducing glucosuria and natriuresis, SGLT2is alleviate multiple complications induced by chronic hyperglycemia. Moreover, SGLT2is reduce albuminuria, improve tubular function, and modulate erythropoiesis. Additionally, they mitigate inflammation and fibrosis by decreasing oxidative stress and downregulating pro-inflammatory pathways. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant reductions in renal and cardiovascular events among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted through PUBMED, highlighting the effects of SGLT2is and the results of major clinical trials involving SGLT2is.

Key messages

SGLT2is play a crucial role in the management of DKD and HF by addressing multiple pathogenic pathways. Currently, SGLT2is are included in clinical guidelines for DKD and HF management, and their benefits extend to non-diabetic populations. Further research is needed to explore SGLT2is’ multifaceted mechanisms and potential applications across diverse patient populations and different disease etiologies.
АНАЛІЗ ТРУДНОЩІВ ВІДПУСКУ ЛІКАРСЬКИХ ЗАСОБІВ ЗА ЕЛЕКТРОННИМИ РЕЦЕПТАМИ
Authors: Koval V. M. , Kryvoviaz O. V. , Mykhalevych V. M.
Published: January 2025

Мета роботи - визначення основних труднощів, що трапляються при відпуску лікарських засобів за е-рецептами фармацевтичними працівниками в аптеках, та виявлення закономірностей, що пов’язують ці труднощі з місцем розташування аптечного закладу, досвідом роботи фармацевтичного працівника та його віком.
Матеріали і методи. У роботі було використано метод опитування за допомогою анкетування; аналіз отриманих результатів проводили за допомогою математичних і статистичних методів, зокрема, обчислення коефіцієнтів кореляції, застосовували операцію перетворення категорійних змінних методами Label Encoding.
Результати та обговорення. Зроблений аналіз можливих причин виникнення труднощів щодо відпуску рецептурних лікарських засобів з аптек, які можуть бути пов’язані з факторами, що можна розділити на декілька категорій. У даній роботі здійснено оцінку впливу місця розташування аптечного закладу, віку та досвіду фармацевтичного працівника на досліджувану проблему. 
Висновки. Здійснено аналіз стану відпуску лікарських засобів за електронними рецептами за допомогою розробленого інструменту – "Анкети-опитувальника для фармацевтів". Встановлено, що труднощі при відпуску лікарських засобів за е-рецептами виникають незалежно від місця розташування аптечного закладу. Близько 80 % е-рецептів, що відпускаються фармацевтичними працівниками, потребують до 5 хв часу на 1 е-рецепт незалежно від їхнього віку і професійного стажу. Незалежно від стажу професійної діяльності проблеми з відпуском е-рецептів виникають переважно у 10–20% випадків. За наявності чи відсутності особливих технічних труднощів з відпуском е-рецептів з аптечних закладів у кінцевому варіанті переважно не вдається відпустити від 10 % до 20 % лікарських засобів, виписаних за електронними рецептами.
КЕЙС-ТЕХНОЛОГІЯ ЯК ІННОВАЦІЙНИЙ ПІДХІД У ВИКЛАДАННІ ОРГАНІЗАЦІЙНО-ЕКОНОМІЧНИХ ДИСЦИПЛІН ДЛЯ ФАХІВЦІВ ФАРМАЦІЇ
Authors: Grytsyk A. R. , Fedenko S. M.
Published: January 2025

Мета роботи. Вивчити кейс-технологію як інноваційний підхід при викладанні дисциплін організаційно-економічного напрямку (організація та економіка фармації, фармацевтичний менеджмент та маркетинг, фармакоекономіка, соціальна фармація, основи економіки, основи страхової медицини) на кафедрі фармацевтичного управління, технології ліків та фармакогнозії, створення кейсу з дисципліни «Організація та економіка фармації».
Матеріали і методи. Матеріалами дослідження були наукові статті, що описують застосування кейс-технологій у закладах вищої освіти. Наукове осмислення використання кейс-технології у викладанні організаційно-економічних дисциплін в ІФНМУ вимагає застосування низки методів наукового дослідження. Описовий метод дає змогу передати специфіку досліджуваного методу навчання. Для узагальнення та осмислення цього досвіду використано загальнонаукові методи – аналіз і синтез.
Результати й обговорення. У статті представлено теоретичне обґрунтування використання кейс-технології на практичних заняттях з дисципліни «Організація та економіка фармації» на кафедрі фармацевтичного управління, технології ліків та фармакогнозії ІФНМУ. Визначено сутність кейс-технології, яка полягає у вивченні конкретних випадків (ситуацій, наративів і текстів-кейсів) з життя та професійної діяльності для спільного аналізу, обговорення та прийняття рішень. Проаналізовано переваги використання кейсів на практичних заняттях з дисципліни «Організація та економіка фармації» та розглянуто структурні елементи кейсів. Висвітлено основні етапи впровадження кейс-технології та наведено приклади використання кейс-технології на практичних заняттях.
Висновок. Продемонстровано, що за допомогою кейс-технології можна відпрацьовувати практичні навички, вести діалог та дискусію за темою кейсу, а також проблематизувати матеріал для підвищення інтересу до вивчення організаційно-економічних дисципліни, зокрема «Організації та економіки фармації».
СУЧАСНА МЕТОДОЛОГІЯ ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНОЇ ІНФОРМАТИКИ У ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНІЙ ДОПОМОЗІ ХВОРИМ НА АРТЕРІАЛЬНУ ГІПЕРТЕНЗІЮ
Authors: Huz V. S. , Lebed S. O. , Reviatskyi I. U. , Blavatska O. B. , Boiko A. I.
Published: January 2025

Мета роботи - формування елементів інформаційного забезпечення фармацевтичних спеціалістів на основі застосування сучасних методів фармацевтичної інформатики (ФІ) для аналізу ретроспективних облікових даних електронного рецептурного обігу, генерованого соціально-економічною системою реімбурсації лікарських засобів (ЛЗ) для амбулаторних хворих на артеріальну гіпертензію (АГ) в Україні.
Матеріали і методи. Застосовуючи частотний, порівняльний, логічний аналізи та статистичний аналіз методом Варда (Ward’s method) (проведений за допомогою програми IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 28) опрацьовано отримані з аналітичних панелей НСЗУ дані обліку релевантної електронної рецептури за 2019 – 2021 рр. та нормативно-правові акти, що регламентують лікарське забезпечення хворих на АГ в Україні.
Результати і обговорення. На основі аналітичних методів сформовано сукупність змінних, які характеризують ефективність реалізації програми реімбурсації ЛЗ для лікування амбулаторних хворих на АГ в Україні: показники виписаних та погашених ЕР; показник частки ЕР, за якими відпущені профільні ЛЗ; сумарний показник відпущених ЛЗ для лікування АГ (за визначеними добовими дозами (DDDs)); сумарний фінансовий показник відшкодування вартості ЛЗ.
Виконано кластерний аналіз регіональних процесів реалізації програми «Доступні ліки» у період 2019 – 2021 рр. за методом Варда (Ward’s method) на історично сформованій сукупності 25 об’єктів (24 областей та м. Київ). Отримано чотири регіональні кластери, які візуалізовано на дендрограмі. Регіоном, що продемонстрував високий рівень реалізації програми реімбурсації ЛЗ для лікування АГ у період 2019 – 2021 рр., є Дніпропетровська область.
Висновки. Реалізовано сучасну методологію ФІ на прикладі аналізу реалізації програми «Доступні ліки» у період 2019 – 2021 рр.
Зафіксовано регіональну кореляцію кількості виписаних і відпущених ЕР для лікування АГ та часток погашених ЕР, що доводить високу ступінь інтеграції медичної та фармацевтичної допомоги.
Отримано чотири кластери регіонів за показниками виписаних, відпущених ЕР та їх часткою; сумарними показниками відпущених за визначеними добовими дозами (DDDs), відшкодування вартості ЛЗ за ЕР, що важливо для опрацювання та обґрунтування напрямів і шляхів оптимізації фармацевтичної допомоги хворим на АГ.
Monocyte-Derived cxcl12 Guides a Directional Migration of Blood Vessels in Zebrafish
Authors: Lu Xiaofeng , Wang Xiaoning , Li Bowen , Wang Xin , Duan Xuchu , Liu Dong
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Sprouting blood vessels, reaching the aimed location, and establishing the proper connections are vital for building vascular networks. Such biological processes are subject to precise molecular regulation. So far, the mechanistic insights into understanding how blood vessels grow to the correct position are limited. In particular, the guide cues and the signaling-originating cells remain elusive.

METHODS:

Live imaging analysis was used to observe the vascular developmental process of zebrafish. Whole-mount in situ hybridization and fluorescent in situ hybridization were used to detect the expression profiles of the genes. Single-cell sequencing analysis was conducted to identify the guiding protein and its originating cells.

RESULTS:

Taking advantage of live imaging analysis, we described a directional blood vessel migration in the vascularization process of zebrafish pectoral fins. We demonstrated that pectoral fin vessel c migrated over long distances and was anastomosed with the second pair of intersegmental vessels. Furthermore, we found the cxcl12a-cxcr4a axis specifically guided this long-distance extension of pectoral fin vessel c–intersegmental vessel, and either inhibition or overexpression of cxcl12a-cxcr4a signaling both mislead the growth of pectoral fin vessel c to ectopic areas. Finally, based on an analysis of single-cell sequencing data, we revealed that a population of monocytes expresses the Cxcl12a, which guides the migration of the vascular sprout.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study identified Cxcl12a as the signaling molecule for orchestrating the organotypic-specific long-distance migration and anastomosis of the pectoral fin vessel and the intersegmental vessels in zebrafish. We discovered a specific cluster of
gata1
(globin transcription factor 1)-positive monocytes responsible for expressing Cxcl12a. The findings offer novel insights into the mechanisms underlying organotypic vascularization in vertebrates.
Venous Sinus Stenting Using a Ledge‐Reducing Catheter, 0.088‐in. Catheter‐Extender With an External Single Point of Control: Technique and Multicenter Clinical Experience
Authors: Goren Oded , Settecase Fabio , Luh George , Kass‐Hout Tareq , Morsi Rami , Martin Coleman O. , Almekkawi Ahmad K. , Telischak Nicholas A. , Alexander Matthew D. , Abraham Michael G. , Lingam Sivani , Grandhi Ramesh , Hussain M. Shazam , Jovin Tudor G. , Khandelwal Priyank , Nguyen Thanh T. , Klein Piers , English Joey D. , Abdalkader Mohamad K.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Venous sinus stenting (VSS) is increasingly performed for managing venous sinus stenosis associated with refractory idiopathic intracranial hypertension and/or pulsatile tinnitus. The Monopoint System (MS; Route 92 Medical, San Mateo, CA) is a telescoping catheter system with a single point of control outside the body, consisting of an 8F Guide Catheter (Base Camp), a 0.088‐in. inner diameter catheter‐extender (HiPoint 88), and a ledge‐reducing delivery catheter (Tenzing 8). In this study, we describe the MS technique for VSS and our multicenter clinical experience.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent VSS with the MS from 2022 to 2023 for intracranial hypertension and/or pulsatile tinnitus at 13 sites. Base Camp is placed in the internal jugular bulb. HiPoint 88 is advanced over the Tenzing 8 through the stenosis. The stent‐delivery system is placed across the stenosis (inside the HiPoint 88), then unsheathed by HiPoint pull‐back, followed by successful stent deployment. Operators were also surveyed on MS performance.

RESULTS

Seventy‐one patients were included, 97% female, mean age 40 ± 11 years, body mass index 35 ± 11. The primary indication for venous stenting was intracranial hypertension (79%, 56/71) and/or debilitating pulsatile tinnitus (87%, 62/71). Visual changes were present in 74%, with papilledema in 63%. Hipoint 88 advanced beyond the stenosis over Tenzing 8 in all cases, and all stents (diameters 6–10 mm and lengths 30–80 mm) successfully deployed. Median stenosis decreased from 80% (interquartile range 75–87) to 0% (interquartile range 0–0) post stenting (
P
<0.001). There were no Monopoint‐related complications. compared with the operators’ typical VSS catheter setup/technique, MS was rated “better” in 93% and “slightly better” in 6%; operators cited ease of crossing the stenosis, improved trackability and support, as well as lack of stent‐catheter length incompatibilities. Headache, pulsatile tinnitus, and papilledema improved in 81%, 95%, and 91%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The MS is a safe and effective catheter platform for VSS.
The Farmer, the Tyrant, and the Quiet Man: Tacitus’ Agricola as Exoteric Literature
Authors: Young Carl E.
Published: January 2025

The article argues for a Straussian interpretation of Tacitus’ Agricola by showing that Tacitus’ explicit praise of the life of Agricola and criticism of the Stoic martyrs are undermined by his implicit comparisons to other lives within the text and by his allusions to other works of Socratic political philosophy, especially Xenophon’s. The popular teaching of the Agricola is that Agricola’s policy of political quietism is the best way of life for an ambitious young Roman living under a tyrannical emperor, while the Stoic’s political extremism is not beneficial for the common good. The philosophic teaching, by contrast, is that a ‘serious and wise man’ will pursue a kind of Xenophontic approach to politics because he recognizes that the philosophic life is the highest life, but that it is necessary for the philosopher to advise the tyrant if the conditions for a philosophic life are going to be possible.
Machiavelli’s ‘Lucretian’ Republic
Authors: Kapust Daniel
Published: January 2025

Focusing on Machiavelli’s knowledge of Lucretius’ De rerum natura, I explore Machiavelli’s relationship to Lucretius. I am especially interested in Machiavelli’s apparent disavowal of the Epicurean goal of ataraxia in light of Machiavelli’s republicanism. Machiavelli, I argue, abandons this core dimension of Lucretius’ project in order to preserve and enhance his desired form of republicanism.
The Impact of Baby’s Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip on Mother’s Mental Health: Preliminary Findings From a Prospective Study
Authors: Loconsole Annalisa , Colella Antonio , Coppola Gabrielle , Foschino Barbaro Maria Grazia , Dibello Daniela
Published: January 2025

Evidence shows that parents of children with chronic illnesses are mentally stressed. Thus far, developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is unexplored in relation to its impact on mothers’ well-being. The study aimed at contributing to fill this gap by exploring mothers’ mental health facing infants’ DDH, at the diagnosis time and by the end of the treatment; possible moderators of changes over time were mothers’ hip worries, compliance to treatment, and severity of babies’ DDH. The sample included 60 mother-infant dyads, 33 of which followed longitudinally. Multiple mother- and clinician-reported measures were administered. Multilevel models showed that the mothers’ psychological condition remained stable over time. The mothers’ hip worries, compliance to treatment, and severity of babies’ DDH did not moderate mothers’ mental health over time but were significant independent predictors of it. Our findings might have relevant clinical implications, for medical staff who deals with mothers and infants’ DDH.
How Templatic Is Arabic Input to Children? The Role of Child-Directed-Speech in the Acquisition of Semitic Morpho-Phonology
Authors: Khattab Ghada , Keren-Portnoy Tamar
Published: January 2025

Semitic languages such as Hebrew and Arabic are known for having a non-concatenative morphology: words are typically built of a combination of a consonantal root, typically tri-consonantal (e.g., k-t-b “related to writing” in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA)), with a prosodic template. Research on Hebrew language development suggests early sensitivity to frequently occurring templates. For the Arabic dialects, little is known about whether implicit sensitivity to non-concatenative morphology develops at a young age through exposure to speech, and how templatic the spoken language is in comparison to MSA. We focus on Lebanese Arabic. We hypothesized that prolonged contact with French and English may have “diluted” the salience of roots and patterns in the input. We used three different corpora of adult-directed-speech (ADS), child-directed-speech (CDS), and child speech. We analyzed the root and pattern structures in the 50 most frequent Lebanese Arabic word types in each corpus. We found fewer words with templatic patterns than expected among the most frequent words in ADS (35/50), even fewer in CDS (23/50) and still fewer in the children’s target words (15/50). In addition, only a minority contains three root consonants in their surface forms: 22 in ADS, 15 in CDS, and only 7 in words targeted by the children. We conclude that Semitic structure is less evident in either input to children or words targeted by children aged 1–3 than has been assumed. We discuss implications for the development of sensitivity to templatic structure among Lebanese-acquiring children.
The Integration of Bayesian Regression Analysis and Bayesian Process Tracing in Mixed-Methods Research
Authors: Behrens Lion , Rohlfing Ingo
Published: January 2025

In this article, we develop a mixed-methods design that combines Bayesian regression with Bayesian process tracing. A fully Bayesian multimethod design allows one to include empirical knowledge at each stage of the analysis and to coherently transfer information from the quantitative to the qualitative analysis, and vice versa. We present a complete mixed-methods workflow explaining how this is accomplished and how to integrate both methods. It is demonstrated how to use the posterior highest density interval and the Bayes factor from the regression analysis to update the prior level of confidence about what mechanisms possibly connect the cause to the outcome. It is further shown how to choose cases for the qualitative analysis through posterior predictive sampling. We illustrate this approach with an empirical analysis of colonial development and compare it with alternative designs, including nested analysis and the Bayesian integration of qualitative and quantitative methods.
Criminal Justice System Involvement Among U.S. Military Veterans: Prevalence, Correlates, and Mental Health Burden
Authors: Meisler Andrew W. , Gianoli Mayumi O. , Pietrzak Robert H.
Published: January 2025

Studies of justice system involvement (JSI) among U.S. military veterans have yielded mixed results regarding both prevalence and correlates due in part to sampling variability and limitations. The present study examined factors associated with lifetime JSI in a nationally representative sample of 4,049 U.S. veterans. Bivariate and multivariate analyses indicate that JSI was associated with racial/ethnic minority, lower income/education, combat, and other lifetime traumas. Relative importance analysis revealed that lifetime substance use disorders, cumulative trauma, adverse childhood experiences, and male sex accounted for the majority of variance in predicting JSI. JSI was also independently associated with current substance use, suicidal ideation, and psychiatric treatment utilization. The study provides population-based findings that extend previous studies. Results underscore the need for informed identification, prevention, and intervention for veterans in the community who are at increased for JSI.
Encountering Juneteenth: Cultivating Homeplace in the Face of Spectacular Violence
Authors: Crawford Mondé Geniece
Published: January 2025

This article examines how the social protests of 2020, which occurred against the backdrop of George Floyd’s police lynching, challenged the author’s understanding of home. Drawing upon bell hooks’ framing of homeplace, this autoethnographic analysis explores how the need to identify homeplace under the specter of societal violence motivated the author to view Juneteenth celebrations as sites of homeplace cultivation. By placing three Juneteenth encounters within the context of her identity as a Black mother to Black sons, the author examines how her conceptualization of homeplace evolved over time and context. In framing each encounter through the themes of Black Joy, Black Pain, and Unapologetic Blackness, the author shows how Juneteenth sites provided a counterspace where she could reconceptualize her understanding of homeplace. Substantively, the paper illustrates the significance of Black spaces as sites of (self)knowledge and restoration, particularly in moments of social unrest. Theoretically, the paper illustrates how homeplace cultivation is a conceptually elastic framework that can be applied to home in the conventional sense and home as an unbounded space, cultivated as a response to social unease.
Evaluating the Effect on Infants and Parents Attending the Parent–Child Psychological Support Programme®, a Community-Based Program to Promote Attachment Security
Authors: Jornet-Meliá Jesús M. , Sancho-Álvarez Carlos , Sánchez-Delgado Purificación , Cerezo M. Ángeles
Published: January 2025

The foremost index of caregiving quality is child attachment, as supported by attachment theory. Research supports the relevance of early parenting interventions in improving child outcomes in attachment quality to promote public health because of their long-term effects on mental health and functioning. This study aimed at evaluating the impact on both parenting and child outcomes of the Parent–Child Psychological Support Programme® (PCPS), a community-based program individually tailored to parents and their infants during periodic center-based visits to promote attachment security. The evaluation involved two cohorts from “vulnerable populations” and used the resources embedded in the program design without interfering with the normal functioning of the service. From an evaluative research approach, the effects on mothers and children were assessed using a quantitative approach. Pre- and post-test measures (parenting questionnaires) and child attachment quality assessments through the Strange Situation Procedure were examined. The equivalence of the cohorts was verified and used as a baseline for parenting outcomes. PCPS participants demonstrated increased parental competence and self-efficacy, as well as reduced levels of parenting stress. Analysis of the two cohorts showed a significant difference in the number of visits and proxies for intervention, which were associated with the expected pre–post changes in parenting dimensions. The proportion of securely attached children was significantly higher in the “medium-high intervention” group than in the “no/low intervention” group (72.7% vs 54.5%). Furthermore, compared with international baselines, this proportion showed no differences in the “no-/low-intervention” group but demonstrated expected significant differences in the “medium-high intervention” group.
Correlation of zero echo time functional MRI with neuronal activity in rats
Authors: Valjakka Juha S , Paasonen Jaakko , Salo Raimo A , Paasonen Ekaterina , Stenroos Petteri , Gureviciene Irina , Kettunen Mikko , Idiyatullin Djaudat , Tanila Heikki , Michaeli Shalom , Mangia Silvia , Gröhn Olli
Published: January 2025

Zero echo time (zero-TE) pulse sequences provide a quiet and artifact-free alternative to conventional functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) pulse sequences. The fast readouts (<1 ms) utilized in zero-TE fMRI produce an image contrast with negligible contributions from blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) mechanisms, yet the zero-TE contrast is highly sensitive to brain function. However, the precise relationship between the zero-TE contrast and neuronal activity has not been determined. Therefore, we aimed to derive a function to model the temporal dynamics of the zero-TE fMRI signal in response to neuronal activity. Furthermore, we examined the correlation of zero-TE fMRI with neuronal activity across stimulation frequencies. To these ends, we performed simultaneous electrophysiological recordings and zero-TE fMRI in rats subjected to whisker stimulation. The presented impulse response function provides a basis for the statistical modeling of neuronal activity-induced changes in the zero-TE fMRI signal. The temporal characteristics of the zero-TE fMRI response were found to be consistent with the previously postulated non-BOLD hemodynamic origin of the functional contrast. The zero-TE fMRI signal was well predicted by electrophysiological recordings, although systematic stimulation-dependent residuals were also observed, suggesting nonlinearities in neurovascular coupling. We conclude that zero-TE fMRI provides a robust proxy for neuronal activity.
Directed Acyclic Graphs in Decision-Analytic Modeling: Bridging Causal Inference and Effective Model Design in Medical Decision Making
Authors: Dijk Stijntje W. , Korf Maurice , Labrecque Jeremy A. , Pandya Ankur , Ferket Bart S. , Hallsson Lára R. , Wong John B. , Siebert Uwe , Hunink M. G. Myriam
Published: January 2025

Decision-analytic models (DAMs) are essentially informative yet complex tools for solving questions in medical decision making. When their complexity grows, the need for causal inference techniques becomes evident as causal relationships between variables become unclear. In this methodological commentary, we argue that graphical representations of assumptions on such relationships, directed acyclic graphs (DAGs), can enhance the transparency of decision models and aid in parameter selection and estimation through visually specifying backdoor paths (i.e., potential biases in parameter estimates) and visually clarifying structural modeling choices of frontdoor paths (i.e., the effect of the model structure on the outcome). This commentary discusses the benefit of integrating DAGs and DAMs in medical decision making and in particular health economics with 2 applications: the first examines statin use for prevention of cardiovascular disease, and the second considers mindfulness-based interventions for students’ stress. Despite the potential application of DAGs in the decision science framework, challenges remain, including simplicity, defining the scope of a DAG, unmeasured confounding, noncausal aspects, and limited data availability or quality. Broader adoption of DAGs in decision science requires full-model applications and further debate.

Highlights

Our commentary proposes the application of directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) in the design of decision-analytic models, offering researchers a valuable and structured tool to enhance transparency and accuracy by bridging the gap between causal inference and model design in medical decision making. The practical examples in this article showcase the transformative effect DAGs can have on model structure, parameter selection, and the resulting conclusions on effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. This methodological article invites a broader conversation on decision-modeling choices grounded in causal assumptions.
Silence of the labs
Authors: Subramaniam Banu
Published: January 2025

This is a commentary on ‘Virtual diversity: Resolving the tension between the wider culture and the institution of science’, by Harry Collins, Robert Evans, Luis Reyes-Galindo.
Critical Race Theory, Marxism, and the Problem of Ideology
Authors: Sites William
Published: January 2025

Critical race theories of ideology, surprisingly, replicate key tensions in early Marxist thought. Following a selective review of several Marxist theorists, this article examines critical race conceptions of racial ideology within the influential work of Charles W. Mills and Eduardo Bonilla-Silva, probing three related problem areas: an “expressive” theory of society, the correspondence of ideologies to racial groups, and an overreliance on standpoint implications. In response, the author develops a heterodox, nonreductive Marxist theory in which racial ideologies, although historically durable, are seen as contingent, relatively autonomous constructs that take shape unevenly within capitalist societies, do not correspond to fixed social groups, and may or may not facilitate the reproduction of capitalism. Developing a less deterministic theory of the relation between social structure, group identity, and racist belief opens up more generative approaches to the problem of racial ideology.
The Efficacy of a Content Area Reading Comprehension Intervention for Students With Disabilities
Authors: Vaughn Sharon , Wanzek Jeanne , Martinez Leticia R. , Hancock Eleanor M. , Fall Anna-Mari , Payne S. Blair , Fluhler Sally K.
Published: January 2025

This pilot study investigated the efficacy of the Promoting Adolescent Comprehension Through Text (PACT) intervention, a social studies content knowledge and reading comprehension set of practices implemented with social studies classes including students with disabilities. Social studies general education teachers were provided with professional development on the PACT and differentiation practices to support students with disabilities in the general education classroom. A total of 28 teachers and 893 students (58 students with disabilities) participated in the study, across 20 rural and urban middle schools. Effect sizes (ES) ranged from 0.21 to 0.36 on measures of content knowledge acquisition and reading comprehension for students with disabilities in the treatment classes.
Mapping the Research on Healthcare Delivery in Business and Management in the Last Two Decades (2002–2021): A Bibliometric Network Analysis
Authors: Pal Dhiraj , Dwivedi Gourav
Published: January 2025

Healthcare delivery is an evolving field of research concerned with promoting good health and well-being for all. To comprehend the progress of the research field, 909 healthcare delivery records were systematically collected from 20 categories aligned to business and management in the Web of Science database, published between 2002 and 2021. Later, the articles were analysed using the Bibliometrix tool to extract information on the annual number of publications, the records of highest publications, keyword co-occurrence networks and thematic evolution during the study period. The findings showed that the United States is the country with the highest contribution to the field, and the University of Washington is the institution with the highest contribution. Additionally, 10 significant clusters of the published articles were identified. The thematic evolution shows that the focus is now more on patient outcomes and the adoption of virtual health delivery models. This study is one of the first to holistically review the healthcare delivery research landscape of the past two decades to identify relevant themes from a multidisciplinary perspective, guiding researchers to pursue novel research studies.
Association Between the Community Gatherings Places and the Kihon Checklist Score: JAGES Longitudinal Study
Authors: Mori Yuta , Ide Kazushige , Watanabe Ryota , Yokoyama Meiko , Tsuji Taishi , Iizuka Genmei , Yamaguchi Kaori , Miyazawa Takuto , Kondo Katsunori
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the number of program types and CGA in community gathering places to gain valid insights into the provision of programs in community gathering places. The study is longitudinal in nature and uses prospective cohort data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study. The participants were 8758 older adults recruited from 28 cities and towns. The dependent variable was the CGA using the KCL. The independent variable was the number of program types in community gathering places. The participants were classified under four groups, namely, No Participation, One Type, Two Types, and More Than Three Types. The study performed linear regression analysis. The mean of the KCL scores by the number of types was 3.8 ± 3.3, 3.5 ± 3.0, 3.3 ± 2.9, and 3.2 ± 2.8 points for the four groups, respectively. CGA was better for two and three or more types of program participation. CGA at 3 years was better when the community gathering places implemented two or more types of program.
Alveolar Bone Quality in Individuals With Cleft Lip and Palate With Missing Lateral Incisors: Orthodontic Space Closure Versus Space Opening
Authors: Aldosari Malak , Shah Jay , Ko Jaemin , Oberoi Snehlata
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively assess the alveolar bone support of teeth adjacent to the cleft site in individuals with nonsyndromic cleft lip and palate (CLP) who have undergone either orthodontic space closure or space opening for missing lateral incisors.

A cross-sectional retrospective study.

University orthodontic clinic serving individuals with CLP.

Twenty-eight individuals with nonsyndromic CLP who were missing lateral incisors divided into 2 groups: space closure (21 subjects) and space opening (7 subjects).

Orthodontic space closure or space opening for replacement of missing lateral incisors in individuals with nonsyndromic CLP.

Buccal and palatal alveolar bone thickness were measured at 5 mm and 10 mm above the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) for cleft-adjacent central incisors and canines. Additionally, buccal, lingual, and proximal alveolar bony coverage ratio on cleft-side central incisors and canines were recorded.

No significant differences were observed in alveolar bone thickness and bony coverage between the space closure group and the space opening group, except for the buccal thickness 5 mm above the CEJ, which was thinner in the space closure group.

The overall alveolar bone support in the grafted alveolus in both the space closure and space opening groups were comparable.
Relationships Matter: The Art of Creating Meaningful Interactions With Students
Authors: Hynes Kristy , Gershwin Tracy , Robinson Jason , Mitchell Chrissa
Published: January 2025

Meaningful student–teacher relationships form a crucial foundation for teachers to deliver effective interventions leading to better outcomes for students with challenging behavior. By implementing simple recommendations for facilitating genuine and intentional interactions with students and regulating their own emotional responses, teachers can establish, maintain, and reinforce meaningful relationships with students. This article describes and provides school-based examples of recommendations for building and sustaining meaningful student–teacher relationships with students who exhibit challenging behaviors.
Clinicians knowledge of cancer: A study in Ghana's Bono region
Authors: Mensah Kofi Boamah , Asambo Martin Asitanga , Attakorah Joseph , Wiafe Ebenezer , Kwakye Adwoa Oforiwaa , Padayachee Neelaveni , Bangalee Varsha
Published: January 2025

Background

Cancer is a growing public health concern in Ghana, with rising prevalence, incidence, and mortality rates. Clinicians play a crucial role in cancer prevention and control by providing accurate information and early detection services. This study assessed the level of cancer knowledge among a cross-section of clinicians in the Bono region of Ghana, focusing on their knowledge of cancer, signs, symptoms, and risk factors.

Method

This was a cross-sectional study conducted using a validated questionnaire. The recruitment included doctors, pharmacists, nurses, laboratory technologists, radiographers, pharmacy technologists and other healthcare staff from four hospitals. Correlation between continuous variables and knowledge, signs and symptoms, and risk factors of cancer were assessed using bivariate correlation analysis.

Results

Our findings showed that the majority of participants (96.6%, n = 237) had adequate knowledge of cancer, with most (91.7%, n = 225 and 62.8%, n = 154) demonstrating adequate knowledge of cancer signs and risk factors, respectively. However, significant knowledge gaps were identified regarding specific warning signs and symptoms, such as indigestion, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and persistent cough or hoarseness. Moreover, a substantial portion of participants lacked knowledge of risk factors like excessive meat intake, insufficient physical activity, and a lack of fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion

This study underscores the need to implement strategies for enhancing cancer awareness and knowledge among healthcare professionals in Ghana, with a particular focus on addressing the identified knowledge gaps. Clinicians should be empowered to effectively educate the public on cancer signs, symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early detection.
Exploring body image among transgender and nonbinary adults: Considering positive body image and the pursuit of gender-affirming surgery
Authors: Markey Charlotte H , Goodwin Christina , August Kristin J , Malik Dua , Pillarisetty Simran , Langan Greg , Schweitzer Justin
Published: January 2025

This study explored body image among transgender and nonbinary adults, including their body appreciation, embodiment, general psychological distress, and gender identity-related pride. This study also considered participants’ pursuit of gender-affirming surgery and mental health services. This cross-sectional survey examined participants’ ( N = 214; Mage = 28.57, SD = 9.50) body image and psychological well-being and how these may differ when considering participants’ interest in gender-affirming surgeries and gender-affirming mental health services. Transgender and nonbinary participants were similar in terms of their body image, but transgender participants had less psychological distress than nonbinary participants. Participants who had no interest in or had pursued a gender-affirming surgery were more likely to experience positive body image than those who desired but had not completed a gender-affirming surgery. Participants who had no interest in or had pursued mental health services also had more positive body images than those who desired treatment but had not pursued it.
Unlocking language teacher wellbeing amid curriculum reform: A focus on emotion
Authors: Yang Shanshan , Sato Masatoshi
Published: January 2025

This study explored the wellbeing of four university-level teachers of English as a foreign language (EFL) in China before, during, and after the implementation of a new curriculum. A particular focus was given to their emotion and its impact on their wellbeing. The data was collected over the course of one academic year through three rounds of in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. The analysis revealed various factors influencing teacher wellbeing that dynamically fluctuated throughout the reform implementation. Overall, three archetypes of language teacher wellbeing emerged: (1) ambiguous wellbeing, (2) jeopardized wellbeing, and (3) self-actualized wellbeing. Based on the findings, we propose an action-based framework for language teacher wellbeing which highlights its fluctuating nature as teachers balance resources and constraints at both personal and situational levels. Recommendations are offered to stakeholders – including policymakers, educational administrators, teacher educators, and teachers – to better support language teacher wellbeing in the context of curriculum reform.
How low can you still go? Observing an ostracized robot is sufficient to hurt humans’ feelings
Authors: Marinucci Marco , Pagliaro Stefano , Teresi Manuel , Ballone Chiara , Riva Paolo
Published: January 2025

Ostracism research has shown that even being ostracized by a computer or observing ostracism hurts. Intersecting these two standpoints with human–robot interaction (HRI) research, we conducted three preregistered experiments to investigate observers’ evaluations of vicarious robot ostracism. In Study 1 ( N = 140), people observing an excluded (vs. included) robot in a Cyberball game attributed higher negative emotions and need-threat to the robot, experienced more negative emotions, perceived the humans more negatively, and perceived the human–robot group as less entitative. Study 2 ( N = 172) replicated Study 1 and showed that participants’ responses did not vary for an excluded human or robot. Study 3 ( N = 238) replicated the previous findings using a social media ostracism paradigm and showed that not even the robot’s anthropomorphic features influenced observers’ responses. The research suggests that the ostracism detection system functions even for vicarious robot exclusion and uncovers anthropomorphism, human intragroup, and human–robot intergroup processes unfolding in HRIs.
An oversampling method based on FEM for multibolt looseness monitoring using Lamb waves
Authors: Yang Jinsong , Hua Maosheng , Yu Tianjian , Wang Tiantian , Xie Jingsong , Pan Tongyang
Published: January 2025

The damage states of multibolts are not only diverse but also difficult to obtain measured multibolt looseness signals due to time and economic costs. Therefore, the imbalance between healthy and damaged samples poses a challenge for monitoring multibolt looseness. A synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) based on finite element model is proposed to solve the problems of difficult acquisition of measured signals and imbalanced samples. A small amount of measurement data and a large amount of simulation data constitute the dataset, and their statistical characteristics are obtained. The spatial distribution of simulated samples representing the damage state is used as a constraint, and new samples are generated at the spatial positions of measured samples through an improved elliptical SMOTE method. To ensure high-quality sampling of new samples and achieve target distribution, an indicator based on Kullback–Leibler divergence was extracted. The new dataset combines the advantages of measurement data and simulation data to achieve a balance between health status data and damage status data, improving the quality of generated data. To verify the effectiveness of this method, a multibolt loosening monitoring platform is established, and the results showed that this method can improve the accuracy of early diagnosis of multibolt loosening.