bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Best Practices for Conducting Systematic Reviews: Perspectives of Experienced Systematic Review Researchers in Educational Sciences
Authors: Fromm Yvonne M. , Martin Florence , Gezer Tuba , Ifenthaler Dirk
Published: February 2025

Systematic reviews have been gaining attention as a research methodology and are among the most frequently cited sources in educational sciences. However, best practices for conducting systematic reviews in educational sciences are still evolving. We conducted N = 12 qualitative interviews to learn from experienced systematic review researchers across various educational disciplines and geographic locations. The interviews focused on the different steps of the systematic review process (i.e., designing, including/excluding, screening, coding, analyzing, reporting), benefits, challenges, team collaboration, ethical considerations, and technologies while conducting systematic reviews. Several themes were identified, providing best practices for conducting systematic reviews and highlighting the importance of a systematic, comprehensive, and transparent research process. The findings have implications for researchers who wish to conduct systematic reviews, instructors who teach students on conducting systematic reviews, as well as editors and reviewers of journals who publish systematic reviews.
Oviposition Dynamics and Niche Utilization in Two Sympatric Drosophila Species
Authors: Moreira-Soto Rolando D. , Hansson Bill S. , Knaden Markus
Published: February 2025

Many Drosophila species coexist by sharing their feeding and breeding sites, which may influence their oviposition choices in an interspecies social context. Whether and where to lay eggs is a crucial decision for female flies as it influences the success of their offspring, by minimizing the risk of predation, competition, or cannibalism. Significant gaps exist in our understanding of Drosophila oviposition dynamics in co-occurring species. Here we tested oviposition strategies of Drosophila melanogaster and its close relative Drosophila simulans under different conditions, to assess whether a single female would prefer to oviposit separately or together with another female, be it a conspecific or not. We find that ovipositing females, regardless whether they are conspecifics or not, prefer to oviposit at the same site. This might suggest that the flies regard the benefits of sharing oviposition sites as higher than the potential risks of competition or cannibalism. The willingness to share oviposition sites was lower when the nutritional value of the medium was increased by adding yeast, and was lost when flies were allowed to lay the eggs consecutively, instead of being tested together. The latter might be explained by our additional finding that females become attracted by the presence of other females on oviposition substrates and that this attraction is partly driven by visual cues. Ovipositing in groups might facilitate intra- and interspecific social feeding of same age offspring, as well as enrichment of microbes. However, this cooperation dynamic might change if another female’s offspring is already present, as it might be perceived as danger of competition or cannibalism.
Dynamic responses of a vibro-impact capsule robot self-propelling in the large intestine via multibody dynamics
Authors: Wang Zepeng , Tian Jiyuan , Liu Yang , Neves Ana , Prasad Shyam
Published: February 2025

In recent years, colonic capsule endoscopy has become available in clinical practice as an alternative modality to colonoscopy. However, it faces challenges such as prolonged examination time and the absence of clinician navigation. Leveraging their pioneering work in the field of vibro-impact self-propulsion technique for gastrointestinal endoscopy, Zhang et al. (IEEE Robot. Autom. Lett. 8:1842–1849, 2023) developed a novel, untethered, self-propelled, endoscopic capsule robot, with the aim of providing a new means of examining bowel cancer in real time. To evaluate and optimize the passage of this capsule robot self-propelling in the large intestine, this work adopts multibody dynamics analysis and experimental investigation to study the robot’s dynamics and its interaction with the intestinal environment. Considering the complex anatomy of the large intestine, containing different sections, e.g., cecum, ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid colon, and variations of the haustra, e.g., with various radii, lengths, and heights, the robot was driven by the square-wave excitation of an inner mass interacting with the capsule body and tested on a real porcine colon. The robot’s driving parameters, including the excitation frequency, amplitude, and duty cycle, and the dimensions of the haustra are the two main factors influencing the robot’s progression in the intestine. By comparing with the experimental results, the proposed multibody dynamics model developed using MSC Adams can estimate the movement of the capsule robot and the intestinal resistance quantitatively. Extensive numerical and experimental studies suggest an excitation frequency of 60 Hz and a duty cycle of 0.4 as the optimal parameters for driving the robot, and the longer the haustral length is, the faster the robot passes through. These results ensure the validity of the proposed multibody dynamics platform, which can be used by robotic engineers for developing medical robots for intestinal examinations.
Sonodynamic therapy with a single neoadjuvant, diffuse delivery of low-intensity ultrasound with 5-ALA in treatment naïve glioblastoma results in tumor-specific cytotoxic edema and increased apoptosis
Authors: Stummer Walter , Gerwing Mirjam , Bilgin Sabriye Sennur , Thomas Christian , Villanueva-Meyer Javier , Agarwal Vijay , Stögbauer Louise , Schroeteler Juliane , Müther Michael
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Sonodynamic therapy, which combines a tumor cell-selective sonosensitizer with ultrasound, is gaining attention as a promising new treatment approach for glioblastoma. The objective of this case study is to report on the first applications of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) in combination with low-intensity, non-targeted ultrasound as neo-adjuvant treatment in therapy naïve glioblastoma.

Methods

Three patients with therapy naïve newly diagnosed glioblastoma were treated once before cytoreductive surgery with 5-ALA in combination with hemispheric, low-intensity, non-targeted ultrasound, assuming cell death to be triggered by non-ablative activation of 5-ALA-induced, tumor selective porphyrins.

Results

No adverse effects were noted. Post-procedural MRI indicated a decrease in apparent diffusion coefficient values in tumors, suggesting cytotoxic effects. Relative cerebral blood volumes and leakage were increased for two patients with available perfusion imaging. Tissue obtained during surgery suggested increased cleaved-caspase III expression, a marker of apoptosis.

Conclusion

We saw an immediate marked imaging response indicating cytotoxic edema and indications of a histopathology response from just a single treatment. Correlation to clinical outcomes and extension of overall survival remains to be seen. A Phase 1 safety study has been submitted for regulatory approval.
Analysis of Density-Dependent Cell Structure of EPP Bead Foams Under Compression
Authors: Koch I. , Preiß G. , Müller-Pabel M. , Grüber B. , Gude M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Closed cell polymer bead foams are widely used in industrial applications due to their extraordinary damping and insulation properties. To understand the structure-property-relations at different deformation states the volumetric structure of polymer walls, cells and beads should be statistically analysed.

Objective

The presented work is focused on the statistical analysis of the changing cell structure of expanded polypropylene bead foams of different density at distinct compression states.

Methods

Cylindrical bead foam specimens are scanned by x-ray computed tomography at 3-5 different compression states. The reconstructed volume information is segmented and statistically analysed.

Results

It could be shown that, among others, the cell sphericity and their orientation relative to the plane normal to the loading direction are sensitive parameters to the deformation state. With regard to the material symmetry level, a shift of the isotropic foam to transversal isotropic structure was observed. No sudden, stability related, deformation or failure could be observed.

Conclusions

Good metrics for the deformation analysis of expanded polypropylene bead foams from in-situ computed tomography tests are the cell sphericity and orientation. Compression deformation leads to a gradually change of material symmetry level from isotropy to anisotropy.
Real Emotions for Unreal Fictional Objects: A Brentanean Perspective
Authors: Kroon Frederick William
Published: February 2025

The best-known arguments for the reality of emotions to fictional characters are (on their own) unable to show that appreciators of fiction have genuine emotional attitudes to fictional characters. At best, they point to the need to distinguish fictional emotions as states from fictional emotions as (relational) attitudes. I argue for this position by using an argumentative strategy that parallels one found in Brentano’s reist account of intentional states involving non-existent objects. The conception of emotional states that emerges yields a natural anti-realist conception of the intentional objects of such states and supports the view that we can have genuine emotions for unreal fictional objects. I contrast this view with Tim Crane’s and Mark Sainsbury’s well-known anti-realist views of intentionality.
Who influences family tourism decisions? Incorporating children’s perceptions
Authors: Rojas-de-Gracia María-Mercedes
Published: February 2025

This article continues the work of Rojas-de-Gracia et al. (2019) in which they question the appropriateness of relying on a single partner, male or female, to identify the decision-maker in tourism decisions. That study concluded that there is no general consensus among the members of the couple. As a solution, they proposed including the child as an impartial observer. This research tests that suggestion and shows that children’s perceptions differ from those of their parents, considering tourism decisions mostly autonomous and mainly dominated by the mother, contrary to parents’ perceptions of joint decision making. The practical implications of this finding are discussed.
Differential Risk Factors for Hematoma Expansion in Deep and Lobar Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Zhang Kangwei , Yang Baoqing , Wei Lai , Zhou Xiang , Han Fushi , Meng Jinxi , Zhao Xingyu , Zhang Bo , Chen Daxiao , Wang Peijun
Published: February 2025

Background

Understanding the risk factors for hematoma expansion (HE) in different regions of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) can help in the development of more accurate HE prediction tools and in implementing more effective clinical treatment interventions. This study aims to investigate the risk factors for HE in patients with lobar and deep ICH.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 558 cases of primary supratentorial ICH from Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University. Patients were categorized into lobar ICH and deep ICH groups. Differential analysis of ICH characteristics at different locations was performed, followed by subgroup analysis based on HE occurrence. Binary logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for HE in each group.

Results

Among the 404 patients with ICH who underwent follow-up noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) scans, the proportion with HE was similar in the deep ICH group (23.2%) and the lobar ICH group (22.7%). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that fluid level (odds ratio [OR] 4.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.74–13.06), admission Glasgow Coma Scale score (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.80–0.96), and time from onset to NCCT examination (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.75–0.94) were independently associated with HE in the deep ICH group. In the lobar ICH group, irregular shape (OR 4.96, 95% CI 1.37–18.01) and fibrinogen level (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.21–0.86) were significant risk factors.

Conclusions

Fluid level, low admission Glasgow Coma Scale score, and shorter time from onset to NCCT are independent predictors of HE in deep ICH, whereas irregular shape and low fibrinogen levels are independent predictors of HE in lobar ICH. These findings are of great significance for elucidating the mechanisms underlying HE in different locations of ICH and for developing precise predictive models of HE.
How parentification relates to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder (ROCD): the mediating role of obsessive beliefs
Authors: Trak Ezgi , Acar Sukriye , Inozu Mujgan
Published: February 2025

OCD is characterized by obsessions (intrusive thoughts, images or urges) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or cognitive acts) to alleviate anxiety caused by the obsessions. Parentification is the phenomenon whereby parents assign adult roles to their children, expecting them to perform practical and emotional tasks. Previous research has linked parentification to both beneficial and detrimental consequences for the child. Despite previous research suggesting that parent-child interactions are a contributor to the development and persistence of obsessive tendencies, research investigating the role of parentification in OCD and the relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder (ROCD) is lacking. This study evaluates the relationship between benefits and negative aspects of parentification, OCD, and ROCD symptoms. In addition, the study examines the mediating role of obsessive beliefs in these associations. A community sample of 788 participants responded to self-report questionnaires of parentification, obsessive beliefs, OCD, and ROCD. Findings revealed that parent and sibling-focused parentification were positively associated with OCD and ROCD symptoms, whereas perceived benefits of parentification were negatively associated with OCD and ROCD. Furthermore, obsessive beliefs mediated the relationship between parentification and obsessive tendencies. Findings suggest that individuals who have undergone parentification may be more susceptible to developing maladaptive beliefs that may subsequently lead to obsessive preoccupation. The study contributes to the clarification of complex interplay between developmental factors such as parentification, cognitive factors such as obsessive beliefs, and obsessive tendencies.
Efficiency criteria and dual models for multi-objective semi-infinite constrained minimization problems with vanishing restrictions
Authors: Roy Murari Kumar , Joshi Bhuwan Chandra , Treanţă Savin , Marghescu Cristina-Florentina
Published: February 2025

This article delves into the analysis of semi-infinite multi-objective optimization problems characterized by constraints that gradually vanish. We establish sufficient efficiency criteria to determine whether a feasible solution attains a Pareto solution in the given multi-objective optimization problem considering the presence of vanishing constraints and suitable generalized convexity assumptions. We provide illustrative examples to confirm the validity of our findings. Additionally, we derive weak, converse, strong converse, and strong duality theorems for a dual model based on Mond–Weir principles, relying on generalized convexity assumptions.
The Dynorphin/-Opioid Receptor System at the Interface of Hyperalgesia/Hyperkatifeia and Addiction
Authors: Marchette Renata C. N. , Vendruscolo Leandro F. , Koob George F.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

Drug addiction is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, accompanied by negative emotional states (hyperkatifeia) and heightened pain sensitivity (hyperalgesia) during withdrawal. Both hyperalgesia and hyperkatifeia are integral components of substance use disorders, negatively impacting treatment and recovery. The underlying neurobiological mechanisms of hyperalgesia and hyperkatifeia involve alterations of brain reward and stress circuits, including the dynorphin/κ-opioid receptor (KOR) system. The dynorphin/KOR system modulates pain perception, negative affect, and addictive behaviors. Here, we review the preclinical evidence of dynorphin/KOR signaling in opioid withdrawal-induced hyperalgesia and hyperkatifeia.

Recent Findings

In opioid dependence models, pharmacological and genetic interventions of the dynorphin/KOR system attenuate somatic and motivational signs of withdrawal and addictive-like behaviors, highlighting its therapeutic potential. Understanding the intricate interplay between dynorphin/KOR signaling, hyperalgesia, hyperkatifeia, and addiction offers novel insights into treatment strategies for opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders.

Further research is needed to elucidate precise mechanisms of the sexual dimorphism of dynorphin/KOR signaling and identify targeted interventions to mitigate hyperalgesia and hyperkatifeia and facilitate recovery from addiction.
Technology-Based Interventions for the Treatment of Peripartum Depression: An In-Depth Systematic Review
Authors: Aștefanei Andreea , Miclea Mircea
Published: February 2025

Technology-based interventions have the potential to be effective in reducing peripartum depression and to increase the access to treatment. Previous systematic reviews focus on the efficacy of the interventions, giving little attention to the programs themselves. The aims of this review are to provide a comprehensive inventory of the program’s components and structure, to analyze their efficacy, and to offer general guidelines for interventions development. A systematic search was conducted in five databases and reported using PRISMA guidelines. An in-depth synthesis and analysis was performed globally as well as on each intervention program. Eighteen reports were included covering 11 different interventions. Overall, the interventions are effective, leading to medium-large reductions of peripartum depression symptoms. All relevant aspects were analyzed such as the most common components, number of sessions, completion rates, extra features, or screening procedure. Guidelines for program development were formulated based on the analysis, covering elements relevant for increasing efficacy as well as treatment adherence. Aspects regarding content as well as mode of delivery are considered.
Levelling up the Recycling Experience: Gamification of Recycling through an Innovative Recycling Station
Authors: Rosenlund Joacim , Helmefalk Miralem , Stenfelt Sofie , Palmquist Adam
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to explore the relation between gamification and recycling of household waste by answering the question of how a gamified recycling station can make recycling a more engaging experience. The station was designed to make recycling a smart, neat and engaging experience for fifteen households during six months. A smartphone application based on gamification mechanics was developed including missions, achievements, quizzes and a visual progression map. Participants were using the smartphone application providing data during the project, as well as were interviewed before and after the period. Results show that when examining recycling experiences in terms of interaction, knowledge, attitudes, and perception, three different groups of participants could be identified. It was shown that the connection between the physical environment and smartphone application was important to consider as these had to be congruent. Further, it was revealed that such intervention via gamification and a new recycling station could contribute to a better recycling experience and increase knowledge, depending on the type of user ranging from engaged, partly engaged to not engaged.
Mitigating ammonia inhibition in anaerobic digestion with lignin-based carbon materials synthesized by hydrothermal carbonization
Authors: Ma Shuaishuai , Wang Hongliang , Gao Xin , Bian Chuanfei , Zhu Wanbin
Published: February 2025

Ammonia inhibition poses a significant challenge to the efficient and stable operation of anaerobic digestion (AD) systems by leading to the inhibition of volatile fatty acid conversion and reduced methane production. This study explores the utilization of lignin-based hydrochar (LHC) and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) produced via hydrothermal carbonization of alkali lignin to alleviate ammonia inhibition in AD processes. The results showed that both LHC and CQDs help counter the decline in methane yield and production rate typically associated with ammonia inhibition. Notably, the addition of 1 g/L CQDs significantly increased methane production by 24.25% compared to the control group. While LHC showed limited ammonia adsorption, its primary impact was enhancing direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) through improved redox capacity and promoting humic acid-like organics formation. In contrast, CQDs reduced charge transfer resistance, significantly enhancing system redox capacity. Optimizing the hydrothermal carbonization temperature of LHC to 250 °C further optimized its redox properties, boosting methane production by 30.53% at a concentration of 3 g/L. Microbial community and metabolic pathway analyses indicated that LHC and CQDs enriched hydrolytic and acidifying bacteria, as well as DIET-associated microorganisms, facilitating efficient volatile fatty acid production and conversion. This process enabled the sustained operation of both acetoclastic and hydrogenotrophic methanogenic pathways, effectively mitigating the adverse effects of high ammonia nitrogen concentrations.

Graphical Abstract
Does being financially resilient lead to better economic outcomes?
Authors: Clark Robert L. , Lusardi Annamaria , Mitchell Olivia S.
Published: February 2025

Some Americans prepare for unanticipated adverse economic events, plan for the future, and keep their debt at manageable levels, but others do not. Using four waves of the Understanding America Study during the pandemic period, we compare middle-aged and older Black, Hispanic, and White Americans’ financial resilience from 2020 to 2024. After uncovering significant initial differences in their financial preparedness at the outset of the pandemic, we confirm that greater financial resilience enhanced peoples’ chances of realizing better economic outcomes when confronting adverse economic shocks. The 2024 wave shows systematic differences in financial resilience across the demographic groups and indicates how greater resilience affects financial satisfaction.
Lifetime and past-year suicidal behaviors among adolescents in Bangladesh: A two-stage stratified cluster sampling study
Authors: Al-Mamun Firoj , Al Habib Abdullah , Islam Johurul , ALmerab Moneerah Mohammad , Mamun Mohammed A. , Muhit Mohammad
Published: February 2025

Adolescence is a critical period marked by significant physical and psychological changes, yet there is limited understanding of suicidal behaviors among adolescents in Bangladesh. To address this gap, the MeLiSA study utilizing a two-stage stratified cluster sampling approach was conducted to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of suicidal ideation, plans and attempts among adolescents. A total of 1,496 participants were recruited from urban and rural areas, and their socio-demographic characteristics and data on smoking, alcohol use, depression, anxiety and insomnia were obtained. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used for univariate analyses, followed by multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with suicidal behaviors. The findings revealed that 6.8% reported experiencing lifetime suicidal ideation, with 2.3% suicide plans and 0.8% suicide attempts. The 12-month prevalence rates were 3.2% for suicidal ideation, 1.5% for suicide plans and 0.6% for suicide attempts. Smoking emerged as a significant predictor of suicidal ideation, plans and attempts, while alcohol use was strongly linked to past-year suicide attempts. Depression was associated with lifetime suicidal ideation, whereas anxiety significantly influenced both lifetime and past-year suicide plans. These results provide valuable insights that could inform evidence-based interventions and policies to address prevalent mental disorders and suicidal behaviors among adolescents in Bangladesh.
Life and Death in Hegelian Judgements
Authors: Giladi Tal Meir
Published: February 2025

Hegel contends that judgements are contradictory, finite and untrue. Prominent scholars argue that Hegel’s issue with judgements is resolved in the later stages of his Logic. Specifically, Ng suggests that this solution is found in Hegel’s discussion of life. In this article, I argue that not only does life fail to resolve Hegel’s problem with judgement—death highlights its insolubility. To support this claim, I examine Hegel’s discussion of judgements in the Logic, showing that judgements are inherently contradictory because they both unite and separate individuals and universals. Instead of being resolved retrospectively, I demonstrate that contradiction, finitude and untruth are intrinsic to judgements. Moreover, since judgements play a constitutive and determinative role in Hegel’s metaphysics, they pass their contradictions, finitude and untruth onto the objects they constitute. Specifically, I argue that for living beings, judgement is literally a matter of life and death, because the contradiction of judgements implies the finitude of the objects they constitute—namely, the perishability of things and the mortality of organisms.
Exploring the spatially resolved initial mass function in SAMI star-forming galaxies
Authors: Salvador Diego , Hopkins Andrew M. , Owers Matt , Nanayakkara Themiya , Croom Scott M.
Published: February 2025

The initial mass function (IMF) is a construct that describes the distribution of stellar masses for a newly formed population of stars. It is a fundamental element underlying all of star and galaxy formation, and has been the subject of extensive investigation for more than 60 years. In the past few decades there has been a growing, and now substantial, body of evidence supporting the need for a variable IMF. In this light, it is crucial to investigate the IMF’s characteristics across different spatial scales and to understand the factors driving its variability. We make use of spatially resolved spectroscopy to examine the high-mass IMF slope of star-forming galaxies within the SAMI survey. By applying the Kennicutt method and stellar population synthesis models, we estimated both the spaxel-resolved (α
res
) and galaxy-integrated (α
int
) high-mass IMF slopes of these galaxies. Our findings indicate that the resolved and integrated IMF slopes exhibit a near 1:1 relationship for α
int
≳ –2.7. We observe a wide range of α
res
distributions within galaxies. To explore the sources of this variability, we analyse the relationships between the resolved and integrated IMF slopes and both the star formation rate (SFR) and SFR surface density (ΣSFR). Our results reveal a strong correlation where flatter/steeper slopes are associated with higher/lower SFR and ΣSFR. This trend is qualitatively similar for resolved and global scales. Additionally, we identify a mass dependency in the relationship with SFR, though none was found in the relation between the resolved slope and ΣSFR. These findings suggest an scenario where the formation of high-mass stars is favoured in regions with more concentrated star formation. This may be a consequence of the reduced fragmentation of molecular clouds, which nonetheless accrete more material.
From Open Doors to Closed Minds: The Transformation of Perceptions Toward Syrian Refugees in Turkey
Authors: Cevik Haci
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of historical and ideological continuities in Turkey’s migration policies on contemporary attitudes toward Syrian refugees. It examines how ethnic homogenization and discrimination, rooted in the foundation of the Turkish Republic, continue to shape public perceptions and policy frameworks. The research is based on qualitative methodologies, including 41 semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted between July and December 2021 with Syrian refugees and Turkish community members residing in Altındağ, Mamak, and Ümitköy districts of Ankara. Participants were purposively selected to provide diverse perspectives on social integration and identity formation. The findings reveal a shift from initial acceptance under religious solidarity to increasing exclusion, driven by nationalist rhetoric. Despite official claims of promoting multiculturalism, Turkish policies and societal attitudes often reinforce prejudices, fostering a socio-political environment where racial and ethnic biases persist.
PETRUS VICTORIUS AND ARISTOTLE'S EUDEMIAN ETHICS
Authors: Rowe Christopher
Published: February 2025

This article reassesses the contribution of the late Renaissance scholar and teacher Petrus Victorius (Pier Vettori) to the reconstruction of the text of Aristotle's Eudemian Ethics, which has come down to us in what is often a highly corrupt form. It proposes an interpretation of certain abbreviations in the marginalia in one of Victorius's copies of the Aldine Eudemian Ethics which reveals them as recommending readings rather than recording them; it proposes that many more of those readings constitute his own conjectures than previously thought. The article goes on to suggest why Victorius never produced an edition of the Eudemian Ethics as he did of other Aristotelian works, despite returning repeatedly, over much of his life, to the task of improving this particular text. Victorius is revealed nonetheless as a highly creative—but also highly disciplined—textual critic, at least the equal of his nineteenth- and twentieth-century successors.
Social Media and the Politics of Ironic Belonging in Dubai
Authors: Pahwa Sonali
Published: February 2025

Social media content creation is hugely popular with second-generation Arab immigrants to the UAE who lack a path to naturalized citizenship, particularly as a space to perform their belonging in the nation. This essay analyzes the work of two Arabophone content creators on Instagram and YouTube who use comedy to perform as quintessential “Dubai kids.” While they align with the state mission of presenting the UAE positively on social media, these creators produce ironic content that makes visible practices of belonging by second-generation youth who distance themselves from inherited politics of national and gender identity. The affective communities that form around these satirical content creators offer a model of belonging in which binaries of citizen and noncitizen can be elided, staging performances of immigrant identity uniquely local to the UAE.
Navigating the currents: understanding awareness, attitudes, and menstrual hygiene management challenges in Bangladesh’s Haor Region
Authors: Basit Abdul , Antu Omme Same , Mithun Mahfuzul , Islam Mohammad Shafiqul
Published: February 2025

Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is an important but often neglected aspect of women’s health worldwide, especially in developing and disaster-prone countries, such as Bangladesh. This qualitative study aimed to investigate awareness, attitudes, and practices related to MHM among girls in the Haor region, particularly during floods. The study adopts a phenomenological approach, and data were collected using purposive sampling from 33 women aged 15 years and above who resided in the Haor region. Thematic analysis was employed to identify the patterns, themes, and subthemes within the qualitative data. The study reveals a significant lack of widespread knowledge about menstruation among girls in the Haor area, which is associated with unfavourable family and social attitudes, and stigma or taboos. Natural hazards, cultural barriers, access to the market, economic incapacity, and inadequate infrastructure make it very difficult to manage menstruation, which is especially aggravated during floods due to displacement and shelter on the roadside, primary schools, and other people’s houses. This research emphasises the need for tailored MHM programmes from the government to address the unique challenges faced by women in Haor regions. Provision of sanitary napkins and essential medicines, maintaining stock in shelters, and equipping community clinics with MHM-related healthcare services are essential. Finally, NGOs should prioritise MH within their scope of work.
Triangulated evidence provides no support for bidirectional causal pathways between diet/physical activity and depression/anxiety
Authors: van Hooijdonk Kirsten J. M. , Reed Zoe E. , van den Broek Nina , Singh Madhurbain , Sallis Hannah M. , Gillespie Nathan A. , Munafò Marcus R. , Vink Jacqueline M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Previous studies (various designs) present contradicting insights on the potential causal effects of diet/physical activity on depression/anxiety (and vice versa). To clarify this, we employed a triangulation framework including three methods with unique strengths/limitations/potential biases to examine possible bidirectional causal effects of diet/physical activity on depression/anxiety.

Methods

Study 1: 3-wave longitudinal study (n = 9,276 Dutch University students). Using random intercept cross-lagged panel models to study temporal associations. Study 2: cross-sectional study (n = 341 monozygotic and n = 415 dizygotic Australian adult twin pairs). Using a co-twin control design to separate genetic/environmental confounding. Study 3: Mendelian randomization utilizing data (European ancestry) from genome-wide association studies (n varied between 17,310 and 447,401). Using genetic variants as instrumental variables to study causal inference.

Results

Study 1 did not provide support for bidirectional causal effects between diet/physical activity and symptoms of depression/anxiety. Study 2 did provide support for causal effects between fruit/vegetable intake and symptoms of depression/anxiety, mixed support for causal effects between physical activity and symptoms of depression/anxiety, and no support for causal effects between sweet/savoury snack intake and symptoms of depression/anxiety. Study 3 provides support for a causal effect from increased fruit intake to the increased likelihood of anxiety. No support was found for other pathways. Adjusting the analyses including diet for physical activity (and vice versa) did not change the conclusions in any study.

Conclusions

Triangulating the evidence across the studies did not provide compelling support for causal effects of diet/physical activity on depression/anxiety or vice versa.
Impact of mealtime social experiences on student consumption of meals at school: a qualitative analysis of caregiver perspectives
Authors: Chapman Leah Elizabeth , Gosliner Wendi , Olarte Deborah A. , Zuercher Monica Daniela , Ritchie Lorrene D. , Orta-Aleman Dania , Schwartz Marlene B. , Polacsek Michele , Hecht Christina E. , Hecht Kenneth , Patel Anisha I. , Ohri-Vachaspati Punam , Read Margaret , Cohen Juliana FW
Published: February 2025

Objective:

To understand caregivers’ perceptions about their children’s mealtime social experiences at school, and how they believe these social experiences impact their children’s consumption of meals at school (both meals brought from home and school meals).

Design:

Qualitative data were originally collected as part of a larger mixed methods study using an embedded-QUAN dominant research design.

Setting:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with United States (U.S.) caregivers over ZoomTM in English and Spanish during the 2021-2022 school year. The interview guide contained 14 questions on caregivers’ perceptions about their children’s experiences with school meals.

Participants:

Caregivers of students in elementary, middle, and high schools in rural, suburban, and urban communities in California (n=46) and Maine (n=20) were interviewed. Most (60.6%) were caregivers of children who were eligible for free or reduced-price meals.

Results:

Caregivers reported that an important benefit of eating meals at school is their child’s opportunity to socialize with their peers. Caregivers also stated that their child’s favorite aspect of school lunch is socializing with friends. However, some caregivers reported the cafeteria environment caused their children to feel anxious and not eat. Other caregivers reported that their children sometimes skipped lunch and chose to socialize with friends rather than wait in long lunch lines.

Conclusions:

Socializing during school meals is important to both caregivers and students. Policies such as increasing lunch period lengths and holding recess before lunch have been found to promote school meal consumption and could reinforce the positive social aspects of mealtime for students.
Demographic and Dietary Determinants of the Association between Dietary Fiber Intake and Obesity in Japanese Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study (JDDM 78)
Authors: Ferreira Efrem d'Ávila , Hatta Mariko , Khin Laymon , Ikeda Izumi , Takeuchi Mizuki , Takeda Yasunaga , Yoshizawa Morikawa Sakiko , Horikawa Chika , Kato Noriko , Maegawa Hiroshi , Fujihara Kazuya , Sone Hirohito
Published: February 2025

Objective:

To evaluate the association between dietary fiber intake and obesity in Japanese outpatients with type 2 diabetes, as well as the demographic and dietary factors influencing this association.

Design:

Cross-sectional study with nationwide registry data on Japanese type 2 diabetes outpatients (2014-2019). Diet was self-reported via a Food Frequency Questionnaire. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥25 kg/m2.

Setting:

Clinics throughout Japan.

Participants:

1,565 Japanese outpatients with type 2 diabetes (63.1% men; age range 30–89 years).

Results:

Multivariate analysis revealed that a higher dietary fiber intake was associated with a lower risk of obesity in all participants (95% CI = 0.439–0.795, p < 0.001). Stratified analysis showed a significant inverse association between fiber intake and obesity in men and the older age groups (59–89 years), but not in women or the younger age group (30–58 years). In men, higher fiber intake was associated with healthier lifestyle behaviors, including increased physical activity (p < 0.001) and non-smoking (p < 0.001), with stronger associations compared to women. Vegetables, fruits, and soybeans/soy products were strongly correlated with fiber, while grains had a weak correlation. Folate was the micronutrient most strongly correlated with fiber.

Conclusion:

Higher fiber intake was associated with lower obesity risk, particularly in men and older age groups. These findings emphasize the need for targeted public health initiatives promoting the intake of diverse fiber-rich foods to effectively manage obesity. Further research is needed to understand sex- and age-specific factors in the fiber-obesity relationship in diverse populations.
Influence of planning target volume margins using various prescription isodoses in gamma knife radiosurgery for single brain metastasis: a phantom study
Authors: Fiagbedzi Emmanuel , Tagoe Samuel Nii Adu , Hasford Francis , Nisbet Andrew
Published: February 2025

Objective:

The study seeks to evaluate the influence of planning target volume (PTV) margins on plan parameters during inverse planning of brain metastases with the Gamma Knife treatment unit, considering various prescription isodose levels (PIL).

Material & Method:

CT scan images of a STEEV anthropomorphic phantom were transferred into the GAMMA PLAN Treatment Planning System. A target measuring a volume of 4·9cc was centrally contoured. Plans with a 0 mm volume margin at five prescription isodose levels from 50% to 70% at 5% increment were created. With 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm and 2 mm PTV margins, identical plans were regenerated. Adjustments were made to each plan when necessary to achieve same target coverage. One-way ANOVA test was used to analyse the influence of PTV margins on parameters including Selectivity[S], Gradient index [GI], V12, Paddick’s conformal index [PCI] and Treatment time [TI].

Results:

Margin addition resulted in PTV volume increase. The findings indicated that the PTV margin of 2.0 mm exhibited the highest mean selectivity of (0.93 ± 0.00), PCI (0.92 ± 0.01), GI (2.50 ± 0.04), V12 (16.17 ± 0.38) and treatment time (118.32 ± 2.91 min). The 0.0 mm PTV margin had the lowest mean value for all the parameters except for the treatment time (105.58 ± 3.48 min) which was slightly higher compared to the 0.5 mm PTV margin (M = 86.36 ± 4.13 min).

Conclusion:

Incremental increases in PTV margins for Gamma knife radiosurgery though a relatively controversial concept influence all dosimetric parameters, which may pose potential detrimental effects and thus need to be carefully evaluated for brain metastasis treatment.
Nitrogen Biogeochemistry of Adjacent Mesoscale Eddies in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre
Authors: Zhou Mengyang , Granger Julie , Rocha Cesar B. , Siedlecki Samantha A. , Barone Benedetto , White Angelicque E.
Published: February 2025

We examined the nitrogen (N) biogeochemistry of adjacent cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies near Hawai'i in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (NPSG) and explored mechanisms that sustain productivity in the cyclone after the initial intensification stage. The top of the nutricline was uplifted into the euphotic zone in the cyclone and depressed in the anticyclone. Subsurface nutrient concentrations and apparent oxygen utilization at the cyclone's inner periphery were higher than expected from isopycnal displacement, suggesting that shallow remineralization of organic material generated excess nutrients in the subsurface. The excess nutrients may provide a supply of subsurface nutrients to sustain productivity in maturing eddies. The shallow remineralization also raises questions regarding the extent to which cyclonic eddies promote deep carbon sequestration in subtropical gyres such as the NPSG. An upward increase in nitrate 15N/14N isotope ratios below the euphotic zone, indicative of partial nitrate assimilation, coincided with negative preformed nutrients—potentially signaling heterotrophic bacterial consumption of carbon‐rich (nitrogen‐poor) organic material. The 15N/14N of material collected in shallow sediment traps was significantly higher in the cyclone than in the anticyclone and showed correspondence to the 15N/14N ratio of the nitrate supply, which is acutely sensitive to sea level anomaly in the region. A number of approaches were applied to estimate the contribution of N2 fixation to export production. Results among approaches were inconsistent, which we attribute to non‐steady state conditions during our observation period.
A Terrestrial Thermometer Using Carbonate Clumped Isotopes From Gar Scales
Authors: Gray Katelyn E. , Brandon Mark T.
Published: February 2025

We present a new clumped isotope calibration relating temperature to the Δ47 composition of the bioapatite scales of gar fish (Lepisosteidae family). Modern gars live at <∼3 m depth in rivers and lakes, are non‐migratory, and their scales grow continuously over their lifespan (∼8–14 years). As ectotherms, their body temperature is equivalent to ambient water temperature. These features indicate that the Δ47 composition of gar scales may be useful for measuring the surface temperature in present and past terrestrial settings. Fossil gar scales are widely distributed in time (Cretaceous to modern) and location (North and South America, Europe, India, and Africa), and are highly mineralized and resistant to diagenesis. Our calibration is based on modern gars collected from eight locations in North America. We use climate data to convert the variable temperature in the gar's habitat into an effective temperature, Te, to account for variable growth. For our samples, Te ranges from 13.8 to 27.1°C. We report a lab protocol for measuring the Δ47 composition of gar scale bioapatite with a reproducibility of 0.019‰ (1 SD). Our calibration is based on 19 samples, with ∼3 replicate measurements per sample. The result is Δ47 = (0.1206 ± 0.0171) × 106/Te2 – (0.7429 ± 0.0587) (1 SE), with R2 = 0.75 (Δ47 in ‰ and Te in K). The slope of this calibration is steeper than that for the lab‐controlled precipitation of inorganic carbonate. We argue that this difference is caused by kinetic isotope effects associated with hydroxyapatite biosynthesis.
Ocean Chlorophyll Feedback in a Coupled Ocean‐Atmosphere Model for the Mediterranean and Black Seas
Authors: Karagiorgos John , Vervatis Vassilios , Sofianos Sarantis
Published: February 2025

Ocean water clarity, influenced by marine chlorophyll concentration, significantly alters the distribution of shortwave radiation in the water column. This work aims to assess the effects of varying chlorophyll on the upper‐ocean physical properties and their subsequent impact on the atmosphere, using a coupled ocean‐atmosphere regional model for the Mediterranean and Black Seas. We performed 11‐year (2011–2021) twin‐simulation experiments based on different chlorophyll concentrations to estimate the penetration of solar radiation in the ocean. The first simulation used a monthly climatology field of chlorophyll concentrations derived from satellite observations, while in the second experiment, the chlorophyll concentration was kept constant at 0.05 , representing clear water conditions. Results show that radiative heating driven by chlorophyll amplifies the seasonal cycle of temperature in the upper layers, leading to increased surface warming in summer and surface cooling in winter. Also, higher surface chlorophyll contributes to cooling in subsurface layers throughout the year due to its shading effect. The temperature response to chlorophyll variations is controlled by the mixed layer depth and a balance between (a) direct near‐surface radiative heating due to the chlorophyll absorption and (b) indirect cooling resulting from vertical turbulent mixing processes with subsurface waters. The atmosphere moderates the seasonal sea surface temperature (SST) response caused by chlorophyll differential heating primarily through changes in latent heat flux. Ultimately, our simulations suggest that increased surface chlorophyll concentrations enhance the Mediterranean overturning circulation, highlighting the necessity of incorporating realistic optical forcing into regional climate modeling studies.
Probabilistic Trade‐Offs Analysis for Sustainable and Equitable Management of Climate‐Induced Water Risks
Authors: Baccour S. , Tilmant A. , Albiac J. , Espanmanesh V. , Kahil T.
Published: February 2025

Pressures on water resources are fueling conflicts between sectors. This trend will likely worsen under future climate‐induced water stress, jeopardizing food, energy and human water security in most arid and semi‐arid regions. Probabilistic analysis using stochastic optimization modeling can characterize multi‐sector vulnerabilities and risks associated with future water stress. This study identifies the probabilistic trade‐offs between agricultural, urban and energy sectors in the Ebro Basin (Spain). Two intervention policies have been examined and compared: (a) agricultural priority, and (b) energy priority, for two planning horizons 2040–2070 and 2070–2100. Results show that the human water security goal is achieved under both intervention policies. However, the achievement of the food and energy security goals depends on the policy objectives and on the spatial location of irrigation schemes and hydropower plants, which result in different stream flows across the basin. The policy choice results in substantially different benefit gains and losses by sector and therefore by location. None of the sectoral production priority policy provides an equitable sharing of benefits among all sectors and locations under climate change, which is an important issue, because the success or failure of policy interventions would depend on the distribution of the gains and losses of benefits across the basin. Policy uptake by stakeholders would depend on reaching win‐win outcomes where losers are compensated, while delivering acceptable levels of food, energy and human water security in large river basins. Information on the probabilistic trade‐offs contributes to the design of water management strategies capable of addressing the multi‐sector vulnerability.