bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International consensus statement on routine blood testing in primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Altaraihi Sarah , Marthin June K. , Anagnostopoulou Pinelopi , Boon Mieke , Carr Siobhan B. , Castillo-Corullón Silvia , Dehlink Eleonora , Destouches Damien M. S. , Duckers Jamie , Haarman Eric G. , Karadag Bülent , Kavouridou Christina , Loebinger Michael R. , Maitre Bernard , Mazurek Henryk , Morgan Lucy , Omran Heymut , Ozcelik Ugur , Peckam Daniel , Pifferi Massimo , Pohunek Petr , Qvist Tavs , Raidt Johanna , Reix Phillipe , Ringshausen Felix C. , Robinson Phil , Robson Evie , Röhmel Jobst , Santamaria Francesca , Schlegtendal Anne , Ullmann Nicola , Walker Woolf , Yiallouros Panayiotis , Thouvenin Guillaume , Crowley Suzanne , Nielsen Kim G.
Published: February 2025

Background

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by dysfunction of motile cilia. Symptoms include recurrent and chronic airway infections which can lead to deteriorating lung function and inflammatory destructive lung disease in the form of persistent atelectasis and bronchiectasis. Routine blood testing may be used as a tool for disease monitoring and management. However, currently there are no consensus-based guidelines within the field of PCD. BEAT-PCD together with ERN-LUNG PCD-Clinical Trial Network aimed to develop an international expert consensus statement on which routine blood tests should be conducted in patients with PCD.

Methods

An international panel of 33 PCD experts from 17 countries was established to generate consensus on routine blood testing in PCD. A modified Delphi technique with three e-survey rounds was used to reach consensus which was defined as at least 80% agreement for each statement. Two patient representatives were included in the consensus process.

Results

The expert panel reached consensus on 51/101 statements (50%) on routine blood testing in children and adults with PCD to be performed at diagnosis, annually and on exacerbation. The statements include biomarkers for inflammation, haemoglobin, iron status, vitamin D, immune function, inhalant allergies, liver and kidney function, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA).

Conclusion

This is the first international consensus on routine blood testing in PCD. It highlights blood tests that may be relevant to perform at diagnosis, annually and on exacerbation in people with PCD. Further research on the clinical usefulness of routine blood testing in PCD is needed.
Evaluation of crossbreeding strategies for improved adaptation and productivity in African smallholder cattle farms
Authors: Vanvanhossou Sèyi Fridaïus Ulrich , Yin Tong , Gorjanc Gregor , König Sven
Published: February 2025

Background

Crossbreeding is successfully implemented worldwide to improve animal productivity and adaptability. However, recurrent failures of crossbreeding programmes in African countries imply the need to design effective strategies for the predominant smallholder production systems.

Methods

A comprehensive simulation procedure mimicked body weight (BWL) and tick count (TCL) incidence in a local taurine cattle breed and in an exotic indicine beef cattle breed (BWE and TCE, respectively). The two breeds were crossed to produce F1 and rotational animals. Additionally, synthetic breeds were created by applying four schemes defined as farm bull (FB), intra-village bull (IVB), exchanged-village bull (EVB), and population-wide bull (PWB) scheme. These schemes reflect different strategies to select and allocate bulls to smallholder farms. The different crosses were compared with the local breed over 20 generations by varying the genetic correlation between the traits (

$${r}_{g}$$

r
g

= − 0.4, 0, 0.4), genotype-by-environment effects (GxE) between local and exotic environment (

$${r}_{g\times e}$$

r

g
×
e

= 0.4, 0.6, 0.8), and the relative emphasis of TCL compared to BWL in a selection index (SI_TCL10%, SI_TCL30%, SI_TCL50%).

Results

Regardless of

$${r}_{g}$$

r
g

and

$${r}_{g\times e}$$

r

g
×
e

, EVB achieved the highest phenotypic and genetic gains for BWL and TCL over the 20 generations with SI_TCL50%. However, EVB displayed lower phenotypic means than F1 crosses in the first seven generations due to the loss of heterosis. Additive genetic variances were generally larger in synthetic crosses than in F1 and local animals, explaining the larger responses to selection. In addition, the EVB was the most effective strategy to stabilize inbreeding and retain heterosis in the advanced generations of synthetic animals. Low emphasis on TCL (SI_TCL30%, SI_TCL10%) resulted in negative phenotypic gain for TCL in synthetic animals when rg = − 0.4. In contrast to F1 and rotational crosses, GxE effects did not affect phenotypic gain in synthetic crosses.

Conclusions

The study demonstrates opportunities for long-term genetic improvement of adaptive and productive performances in smallholder cattle farms using synthetic breeding. Extensive exchange of semen between villages or regions controls inbreeding and additionally contributes to increasing genetic gain. Furthermore, the definition of a suitable selection index prevents antagonistic selection responses caused by negative correlations between traits and GxE effects.
Taiwan’s first clinical reports on the surgical effect of high-frequency deep sclerotomy for treating primary open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Wang Wei-Xiang , Ko Mei-Lan
Published: February 2025

Background

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) leads to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and gradual optic nerve damage. In a study by Abushanab et al., high-frequency deep sclerotomy (HFDS) effectively treated patients with POAG. HFDS creates channels through the trabecular meshwork (TM) using a high-frequency electrocautery probe tip, promoting aqueous humor outflow and reducing IOP. In Taiwan, HFDS has been rarely used to treat POAG patients. Therefore, we conducted the first trial and presented the outcomes of two cases to evaluate its effectiveness.

Case presentation

Both patients had long-term primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) with significant optic nerve damage and visual field loss despite multiple medications. Case 1: A 66-year-old female with a preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) of 20 mmHg and a history of diabetes mellitus (DM) underwent high-frequency deep sclerotomy (HFDS). Postoperatively, the IOP initially decreased to 12 mmHg without Abstract Pagemedications but reintroduced drops to maintain 13-15 mmHg during follow-up. Case 2: A 50-year-old female with a preoperative IOP of 18 mmHg underwent HFDS. The IOP remained stable between 11 and 13 mmHg postoperatively with a consistent medication regimen.

Discussion and conclusions

HFDS is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) that effectively lowers the IOP in patients unresponsive to conventional treatments. This report presents two of Taiwan’s first patients with POAG treated by HFDS, showing IOP reductions of 30% and 33.3% over one year with mild corneal endothelial cell loss, which is consistent with previous studies. HFDS demonstrated a significant IOP reduction compared to that in other MIGS techniques and fewer complications than traditional surgeries. Further research should optimize the postoperative management, consider the anatomical differences and pocket healing.
Acceptability of self-sampling and self-testing for infections: a rapid systematic review on public users’ views
Authors: Borek Aleksandra J. , Roleston Caity , Lazzarino Runa , Cooray Mineli , Hayward Gail , Roberts Nia , Blandford Edward , Fowler Tom , Tonkin-Crine Sarah
Published: February 2025

Background

Self-sampling and self-testing have been increasingly used for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and quickly became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic. User acceptability, preferences, and experiences are important factors affecting self-sampling/self-testing uptake. Understanding these factors is key to managing infections and planning responses to health emergencies. This review aimed to identify user views and experiences related to the acceptability, usability, motivations and preferences for self-sampling/self-testing for infections.

Methods

We conducted a rapid systematic review. We searched Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science, limiting records to those published in English between 2014 and 2023. We also searched manually for additional peer-reviewed and grey literature. We included reports of public users’ views on self-sampling/self-testing for any symptomatic and asymptomatic infections (except human papillomavirus) with qualitative, mixed-methods or survey data relevant to the review aim. Data were extracted into tables and qualitative findings were coded in NVivo. We synthesised data narratively.

Results

We identified 194 eligible reports, including 64 from Europe (which we prioritised for detailed synthesis) and 130 from outside of Europe. In Europe, the studied infections were respiratory (n = 42, including 37 for COVID-19), STIs/HIV/genital infections (n = 20), and hepatitis C (n = 2). Findings indicate that users found self-sampling/self-testing acceptable across infection/sampling types, populations, settings, and countries. Users wanted self-sampling/self-testing to help determine infection status and protect others. The main benefits were privacy and convenience, helping reduce the potential stigma of STIs/HIV/genital infections, and (for COVID-19) informing behaviour (e.g., socialising, self-isolating) and contributing to research. Easier to perform and less invasive sampling approaches were more acceptable. However, some participants reported challenges to self-sampling/self-testing, such as not understanding instructions, pain/discomfort in collecting samples, and lack of confidence in interpreting results.

Conclusions

This review synthesised evidence on the acceptability of SS/ST and factors affecting it across different infections, sampling approaches, settings, and populations. Evidence shows that most people with experience of self-sampling/self-testing found it acceptable and were willing to accept some discomfort in favour of several perceived benefits. This amenability to self-sampling/self-testing could be leveraged for diagnosing infections and preventing transmission. It can be used to support the viability of new models of clinical care and pandemic preparedness.

Trial registration

The review was pre-registered on PROSPERO (ref. CRD42024507656).
A scoping review of gamified applications in English language teaching: a comparative discussion with medical education
Authors: Zolfaghari Zahra , Karimian Zahra , Zarifsanaiey Nahid , Farahmandi Amir Yousef
Published: February 2025

Background

With the increasing integration of technology in education, understanding how gamification can enhance language learning is crucial for developing effective teaching strategies. This scoping review explored the current landscape of gamified applications within TEFL while discussing comparative insights from medical education to outline effectiveness and potential across disciplines.

Method

A systematic search following the PRISMA-ScR protocol was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, ERIC, and Embase databases to identify studies published between 2010 and 2024. English or Persian Quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods research examining interventional approaches or gamified applications in TEFL reporting on the effectiveness of these applications, detailing their design and implementation strategies, and identify the target student populations were included.

Results

A total of 33 studies were included in the review, with an emphasis on their publication year, geographical distribution, study designs, delivery modes, technology utilization, gamification elements, and measurement tools. The review revealed that most publications were concentrated in 2018, with a significant number originating from Asia. The total number of students involved in the intervention studies was 2,531. Quasi-experimental pretest/posttest designs were the most common methodologies used, followed by mixed-method approaches. Online delivery emerged as the predominant mode of instruction, with mobile learning technologies frequently utilized. Feedback was identified as the most commonly employed gamification element, followed by challenges that fostered learner engagement.

Conclusion

The findings highlighted the effectiveness of gamified applications in enhancing motivation and engagement among language learners. Immediate feedback and interactive elements are critical components that contribute to improved learning outcomes. As interest in gamification continues to grow, further research is warranted to explore its long-term impacts and potential applications across diverse educational contexts. This review underscores the importance of integrating gamification into TEFL to create dynamic and effective learning environments.
Adolescent and parental proxy online record access: analysis of the empirical evidence based on four bioethical principles
Authors: Hagström Josefin , Hägglund Maria , Blease Charlotte
Published: February 2025

Background

During recent decades, providing patients with access to their electronic health records (EHRs) has advanced in healthcare. In the European Union (EU), the General Data Protection Regulation provides individuals with the right to check their data in registries such as EHRs. A proposal for a European Health Data Space has been launched, which will further strengthen patients’ right to have online access to their EHRs throughout Europe. Against these policy changes, scant attention has been paid to the ethical question about whether adolescents and parents should access the adolescent’s EHR, and if so, under what conditions.

Methods

In this paper, we apply biomedical ethical principles to explore key questions about adolescents’ and parents’ access to adolescents’ EHRs, with the aim of informing future discussions about the development of ethical and policy practice guidelines.

Results

Drawing on current empirical research, we find preliminary evidence that in some contexts, patient online record access (ORA) could help to facilitate autonomy for adolescents and parents as well as offering support in managing appointments and medications. Notably, however, we find contrasting perspectives between adolescents’ and parents’ experienced benefits and healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) perceived potential harm, with the latter worried about decreased documentation quality after access. Concerns about capacity to understand their health information, and increased anxiety among adolescents obstruct the support of adolescent autonomy among parents and HCPs. Still, research is limited, particularly with respect to adolescents’ experiences of reading their EHRs, and differences across settings have not been closely examined.

Conclusions

To advance more comprehensive understanding of the effects of ORA, and to inspire greater attention to, and development of, evidence-informed ethical guidance in this domain of clinical practice, we outline a range of empirical questions regarding adolescents’ and parents’ experiences that now warrant further study.
Preparing high-quality chromosome spreads from Crocus species for karyotyping and FISH
Authors: El-nagish Abdullah , Liedtke Susan , Breitenbach Sarah , Heitkam Tony
Published: February 2025

Background

The saffron-producing Crocus sativus (L.) and its wild relative C. cartwrightianus (Herb.) are key species for understanding genetic evolution in this genus. Molecular-cytogenetic methods, especially fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), are essential for exploring the genetic relationships in this genus. Yet, preparing high-quality chromosomes for FISH analysis across Crocus species remains difficult. A standardized protocol for achieving clear and well-separated mitotic chromosomes is still lacking. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of pretreatments with four chromosome synchronization methods for optimal chromosome spread preparation in Crocus. Root tips of different Crocus species were treated with four chromosome preparation methods namely hydroxyurea-colchicine (HC), nitrous oxide (NO), hydroxyquinoline (HQ), and ice water (IW) pretreatments to investigate their effectiveness in producing high-quality mitotic chromosome spreads. Metaphases obtained by the four methods were analyzed to assess their quality and metaphase index.

Results

Evaluation of 22,507 cells allowed us to confidently recommend a protocol for Crocus chromosome preparation. Among the methods, ice water pretreatment yielded the highest metaphase index (2.05%), more than doubling the results of HC (1.08%), NO (1.15%), and HQ (1.16%). Ice water-treated chromosomes exhibited better chromosome morphology, with relatively proper size, and non-overlapping chromosomes that were optimal for FISH analysis. Ice water pretreatment was also applied to C. cartwrightianus, the diploid progenitor of C. sativus, where it demonstrated similar efficacy. DAPI staining of chromosomes in both species allowed for clear visualization of intercalary and terminal heterochromatin. FISH analysis using 18S-5.8S-25S and 5S rDNA probes confirmed the utility of IW-prepared chromosome spreads for cytogenetic studies.

Conclusions

We strongly recommend ice water pretreatment as a suitable and effective method for obtaining many metaphase spreads of high-quality in C. sativus and related species, particularly for applications involving a detailed cytogenetic analysis.
Epidemiological outcomes and policy implementation in the Nordic countries during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hallberg Adam , Aakjaer Mia , Aaltonen Katri , Andersen Morten , Pedersen Elisabeth , Hajiebrahimi Mohammadhossein , Nordeng Hedvig , Nyberg Fredrik , Samuelsen Per-Jostein , Wettermark Björn
Published: February 2025

Background

During the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an intensive debate on which strategies would be most effective to minimize the negative societal impact of the pandemic. This study aimed to provide an overview of key epidemiological outcome measures of the disease in the Nordic countries and the subsequent policy implementation that were undertaken to curb the outbreak.

Methods

Time trends in test-positive infections, hospitalizations, and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions due to COVID-19 as well as COVID-19 mortality and excess mortality were compared between Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. The epidemiological patterns were presented in relation to 13 different policies implemented to a different degree in the countries, eight of which were related to containment and five to health systems policy. A stringency index summarized the intensity of the policies. Data were collected from Our World in Data, the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker and Eurostat. The investigated time period was 1 January 2020 to 30 April 2022.

Results

Overall, Sweden had more infections, deaths, hospitalizations, and ICU admissions than the other Nordic countries during the first three waves of the pandemic. However, in the fourth wave, Denmark exceeded Sweden in all outcomes. The overall stringency among the Nordic countries varied broadly. The lowest average stringency index was observed in Iceland and the highest in Sweden. Excess mortality over the whole study period was lowest in Iceland while Norway had very few ICU admissions.

Conclusions

The Nordic countries took vastly different approaches to contain the spread of the pandemic, but the long-term impact on excess mortality was similar. The variety in policy responses and epidemiological measures bring many opportunities for learning across the countries.
Changes in healthcare engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lockett McKenzie , Tamayo Gisselle C. , Schalet Benjamin D. , Reise Steven P. , Kimerling Rachel
Published: February 2025

Background

Healthcare engagement, defined as the self-efficacy to enact the behaviors needed to obtain optimal benefit from health services, is an important aspect of healthcare quality. Measuring changes to healthcare engagement is essential to informing current and ongoing adaptations to health service delivery. The objective of the present study was to explore the responsiveness of the recently developed PROMIS® Healthcare Engagement measure (PHE), a patient-reported outcome, through investigating the impact of COVID and COVID-related healthcare disruptions on healthcare engagement from pre- to peri-pandemic.

Methods

Baseline data (2018–2019) were collected via a national mail survey of Veterans receiving VA care. For follow-up data, a subset of participants was randomly selected to be invited to a follow-up survey. Administrative data was used from the VA’s Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW). We used mixed effects linear modeling to compare changes in healthcare engagement from baseline to follow-up between Veterans who reported healthcare disruptions and Veterans who did not report healthcare disruptions, adjusting for covariates.

Results

From baseline to follow-up, healthcare engagement scores increased on average by 2.84 points. Compared to Veterans who reported no disruptions, Veterans who experienced COVID-related healthcare disruptions demonstrated greater decreases to healthcare engagement (difference scores ≥ − 1.98, ps ≤ 0.002) Further, Veterans with more healthcare disruptions showed greater decreases in healthcare engagement relative to those with fewer healthcare disruptions, such that Veterans with 2 healthcare disruptions (difference score = -4.20) significantly differed from Veterans reporting only 1 healthcare disruption, and Veterans reporting 3 or more disruptions (difference score = -3.75) significantly differed from those with 2 disruptions.

Conclusion

Our results provide preliminary evidence of the PHE’s responsiveness through demonstrating that environmental factors, such as pandemic-related factors, influence healthcare engagement. The COVID-19 pandemic had a complex effect on healthcare engagement, with healthcare engagement scores increasing overall during the pandemic but Veterans reporting COVID-related healthcare disruptions showing decreased changes in healthcare engagement. These findings support the utility of the PHE as a measure of healthcare engagement.
Essential neuromuscular advice for pathologists: Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (second of two parts)
Authors: Cotta Ana , Carvalho Elmano , da-Cunha-Júnior Antonio Lopes , Antunes Julio Salgado , de Souza Francineide Sadala , de Moura Heveline Becker , de Brito Pinto Andreia Portilho , Valicek Jaquelin , Navarro Monica Machado , Godinho Frederico , da Silveira Eni Braga , Lima Maria Isabel , Cordeiro Bruno Arrivabene , Cauhi Alexandre Faleiros , Menezes Miriam Melo , Nunes-Neves Simone Vilela , Vargas Antonio Pedro , da-Silva-Neto Rafael Xavier , Giron Renata Lobo , Costa-e-Silva Cynthia , Takata Reinaldo Issao , Paim Julia Filardi
Published: February 2025

Background

Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy is defined as a group of progressive autosomal recessive (85%, 28 genes) and autosomal dominant (15%, 5 genes) muscular dystrophies described in at least two unrelated families, affecting individuals that achieve independent walking, with predominant proximal muscles weakness at presentation, elevated serum creatine kinase activity, dystrophic changes on muscle biopsy, and degeneration on muscle imaging over the course of the disease.

Main body

The aims of this review are: (1) to show the recent Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD) genetic classification illustrated with clinical and physiopathological characteristics, and cellular localization of the main gene products; (2) to present muscle radiophenotypes with an algorithm for differential diagnosis; (3) to show the role of muscle biopsy for phenotypic characterization, and pathogenicity confirmation in the era of surgical-molecular pathology.

Conclusion

Pathologists may be aware of clinical, neurophysiological, laboratorial, imaging, molecular, and muscle biopsy modalities to provide a precise phenotypic-genotypic diagnosis for adequate rehabilitation care, and genetic counselling.
FOXF2 rs41300825 and NOTCH3 rs1043994 as risk loci for cerebral small vessel disease in Egyptian ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Hussein Fatma Salama , Sayed Soha Saad Eldin , Mohammed Hossam Shokri , Kamal Maha Moustafa
Published: February 2025

Background

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a significant cause of ischemic stroke in all ethnic groups. Genetic determinants of CSVD are poorly understood and have rarely been explored. One proposed mechanism behind SVD is the breakdown of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). An intact barrier relies heavily on appropriate pericyte (PC) coverage of BBB endothelial cells. FOXF2 and NOTCH3 are two genes implicated in PC development and maintenance, thus influencing PC coverage of brain blood vessels. The aim of this study is to investigate whether FOXF2 rs41300825 and NOTCH3 rs1043994 variants can be considered as candidate loci for CSVD in Egyptian patients, marking the first study of its kind in Egypt.

The present study included 186 ischemic stroke patients, selected from neurology and psychiatry department at Ain Shams University hospitals. Patients were categorized into: Group I (SVD patients; n = 114) and Group II (LVD patients; n = 72). Genotyping was conducted for FOXF2 rs41300825 (G/C) and NOTCH3 rs1043994 (A/G/T) using RFLP-PCR, with results confirmed through Sanger sequencing and multiple alignments of sequencing using the MEGA X program.

Results

Results showed that genotype analysis for FOXF2 rs41300825 displayed one band of 334 bp, indicating the GG genotype. The same was observed for NOTCH3 rs1043994 with one band of 665 bp, representing the GG genotype. Sanger sequencing and multiple alignments of sequencing using the MEGA X program confirmed the results.

Conclusion

Neither FOXF2 rs41300825 nor NOTCH3 rs1043994 were able to differentiate between patients at risk of developing SVD and those susceptible to LVD. Further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary.
Mapping and Forgetting
Authors: Jaguaribe Beatriz
Published: February 2025

Centered on the mapping of the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, this essay explores the relations between cartography, national imaginaries, and personal archives. Undertaken in 1917 by the Rondon Commission during the period of the First Republic (1889–1930), the making of the map spanned decades of Brazilian history, as it was finally published in 1952 during Getúlio Vargas's democratic presidency. Its making entailed the exploration of the vast Brazilian hinterlands, the transformation of Indigenous peoples, and the shaping of the lives of the explorers, guides, and cartographers engaged in the enterprise. Since its beginning, the making of the map was directed by Cândido Mariano da Silva Rondon's close collaborator, the military cartographer and chief of the cartography section of the Rondon Commission, Francisco Jaguaribe. As Jaguaribe was the author's paternal grandfather, the effort of mapping what was then the immense terrain of Mato Grosso became embedded in the memorial archives of her family. The author envisions the map as a material object, as a repertoire of imaginaries, a monument, ruin, and allegory. In narrating its saga, the author seeks to entwine personal lives with national projects, individual/collective oblivion with national erasure, and mapping with experiences of creation and destruction.
Management of Major Arterial Injuries: A Critical Complication of Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery
Authors: Emengen Atakan , Yilmaz Eren , Gokbel Aykut , Uzuner Ayse , Cakir Ozgur , Ciftci Ercument , Ozsoy Bedrettin , Ergen Anil , Caklili Melih , Cabuk Burak , Anik Ihsan , Ceylan Savas
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) is the preferred approach for treating sellar and parasellar lesions due to its panoramic view and detailed anatomical definition. This study aims to review major arterial injuries during EES, a rare but critical complication associated with high mortality and morbidity rates.

METHODS:

A retrospective analysis was conducted, including 15 patients from 5640 EES procedures performed between August 1997 and February 2024 at in our center/Department of Neurosurgery. The study focuses on perioperative and postoperative management strategies, highlighting the use of oxidized regenerated cellulose (Surgicel®)/gelatin-thrombin matrix (Floseal®) and multidisciplinary collaboration to achieve hemostasis.

RESULTS:

The incidence of major arterial injury was 0.2%, with a mean patient age of 38.4 years and a female-to-male ratio of 10:5. The most common tumors were adenomas (n = 7) and chordomas (n = 5). The most commonly bleeding arteries in 6 patients each are the cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery and the paraclival carotid artery. Low-flow bleeding was observed in 10 of our patients, while high-flow bleeding was seen in 5 patients, 4 of whom were recurrent cases (P < .05). In 3 patients with high-flow bleeding from segments of the carotid artery, digital subtraction angiography was performed for stent placement or coil embolization, while in 1 patient with high-flow bleeding, digital subtraction angiography was used for monitoring cerebral blood flow. One of our patients died of a myocardial infarction at the 14th month of follow-up and 1 of our patients developed left-hemiparesis.

CONCLUSION:

The study underscores the importance of preoperative planning, surgical expertise, and multidisciplinary teamwork in managing major arterial injuries during EES. The authors advocate for the development of standardized treatment algorithms to improve outcomes in these patients. The findings contribute to the limited literature on managing internal carotid artery injuries in EES, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and algorithm development.
Deciphering the flapping frequency allometry: Unveiling the role of sustained body attitude in the aerodynamic scaling of normal hovering animals
Authors: Pohly Jeremy , Kang Chang-kwon , Aono Hikaru
Published: February 2025

Hovering flight helps facilitate feeding, pollination, and courtship. Observed only for smaller flying animals, the hover kinematic characteristics are diverse except for the decreasing flapping frequency with the animal size. Although studies have shown that these wing patterns enable distinct unsteady aerodynamic mechanisms, the role of flapping frequency scaling remains a source of disagreement. Here we show that negative allometry of the flapping frequency is required to sustain body attitude during hovering, consistent with the experimental data of hovering animals from fruit flies to hummingbirds reported in the literature. The derived scaling model reveals that the lift coefficient and reduced frequency remain invariant with mass, enabling leading-edge vortex formation and wake-capture for a wide range of fliers to hover.
How a salt pan ant Cataglyphis fortis navigates artificially complex environments
Authors: Freire Marilia , Oberweiser Morgan M. , Bollig Antonio , Kunert Grit , Knaden Markus
Published: February 2025

The desert ant Cataglyphis fortis inhabits the harsh and featureless North African saltpans. Individuals forage long distances and return to their inconspicuous nest entrance using path integration, but also rely on visual and olfactory landmarks. Here, we investigated the navigational decision making of these ants in differently structured environments. While individual ants show consistent route preferences, significant variability exists between individuals. Furthermore, the ants favor repetitive routes, suggesting that vision-based learning mechanisms and motor responses guide their navigation, with similar visual cues leading to similar egocentric decisions. This formation of idiosyncratic routes, seen in other ant species, appears to be conserved in C. fortis despite its usually flat habitat.
Crossover Point Differences in Combat Sport Athletes and Runners during Exercise Testing
Authors: Stanzione Joseph R. , Brooks George A. , Bruneau Michael L. , French Duncan N. , Nasser Jennifer A. , Smith Sinclair A. , Ramadoss Rohit , Volpe Stella L.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

During exercise, substrate utilization is characterized by “crossover point,” a term representing the predominant transition from fat to carbohydrate. Exercise intensity highly influences crossover point, but there is a paucity of research on sport-specific differences. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in time to crossover, heart rate (HR), and percent maximal oxygen consumption (%V˙O2max) at crossover point between combat athletes and runners during maximal and submaximal tests. Differences in blood lactate, ketone, and glucose responses between sports were also analyzed.

Methods

Eight male combat athletes and 18 runners were measured for respiratory exchange ratio (RER) during V˙O2max and submaximal treadmill tests. A Kruskal–Wallis test was applied to determine differences between sport types for time to crossover during both tests. A two-way mixed factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied, including sport type and exercise test as the between- and within-group factors, respectively. The dependent variables included HR and %V˙O2max at crossover. For capillary sampling, a two-way mixed ANOVA was applied with blood lactate, ketone, and glucose concentrations as dependent variables. Alpha levels were determined a priori at P < 0.05.

Results

A significant difference was observed between combat athletes and runners (average age: 32.5 ± 12 yr) in time to crossover point during the submaximal test (P = 0.009). Combat athletes reached crossover point earlier (10:03 ± 3:21 min) than runners (17:30 ± 6:21 min). No differences were observed for any other measurements (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Differences observed between combat athletes and runners suggest sport-specific metabolic adaptations. Runners had a longer time to crossover than combat athletes, indicating longer fat utilization. Future prospective studies should include a variety of exercise intensities to further elucidate differences in the transition of fuel use between sport types.
All-cause mortality according to COVID-19 vaccination status: An analysis of the UK office for National statistics public data
Authors: Alessandria Marco , Malatesta Giovanni , Di Palmo Giovanni , Cosentino Marco , Donzelli Alberto
Published: February 2025

Background The mass vaccination campaign against COVID-19 has been commonly considered the best response to the global COVID-19 pandemic crisis. However, assessment of its real-world effect can be performed by analysis of all-cause mortality by vaccination status. The UK is perhaps the only country which has made publicly available all-cause mortality data by vaccination status. Methods Data from April 2021 to May 2023 published by the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) were retrospectively analyzed by age groups and vaccination status; the standardized mortality ratio (SMR) for all-cause and non-COVID-19 mortality was calculated against the corresponding unvaccinated groups. Results We found that across all age groups, all-cause mortality SMRs increased from a certain date, dependent on the age group. Across all age groups, all-cause mortality SMRs were initially much lower than 1. However, due to their increase, by a certain date for the 18-39, 80-89 and 90+ age groups they exceeded the reference value. For the other age groups, the date at which the SMR would reach 1 can be predicted, provided the trend is maintained. Non-COVID-19 SMRs’ trends were very similar. Their initial values much lower than 1 are suggestive of significant biases in the ONS dataset, leading to underestimate the risks for the vaccinated people, as it is implausible that COVID-19 vaccines protect against non-COVID-19 deaths. Conclusions The increase over time in all-cause death SMRs in vaccinated people compared to unvaccinated, and their excess from the reference values for certain age groups, should be carefully considered to understand the underlying factors. Furthermore, since the initial values of the SMRs are much lower than 1, we assume the presence of significant biases in the ONS dataset, leading to understimate the risks for the vaccinated people, as it is implausible that COVID-19 vaccines protect against non-COVID-19 deaths. It would be desirable for other major countries to systematically collect all-cause mortality by vaccination status and, in the meantime, a pending indepth investigations, much greater caution should be exercised in promoting mass vaccination campaigns.
Case Report: Managing Odontoma and Molar-Incisor-Hypomineralization Challenges in Orthodontics
Authors: Alhazmi Nora , Albawardi Khalid , Aleraij May , A. Alqahtani Maram , O. Alsharif Faisal , Shujaat Sohaib
Published: February 2025

This report presents the successful orthodontic management of a case of odontoma associated with impaction of the mandibular right permanent canine and Molar-incisor-hypomineralization (MIH). Although case studies have reported the management of odontomas and MIH as separate entities, there is a lack of evidence regarding the comprehensive management of patients presenting with a combination of odontoma, dental impaction, and MIH. A 15-year, 7-month-old female patient complained of the appearance of her smile and the delayed eruption of her mandibular right permanent canine. She was diagnosed with Angle’s Class I molar relationship and Class II canine relationship with the maxillary permanent right lateral incisor in a lingual crossbite. Furthermore, she had mandibular right permanent canine impaction, retained mandibular right primary canine, and MIH in the permanent anterior teeth and first molars. The management involved the removal of the odontoma to allow for orthodontic traction of the lower permanent right canine. After that, the esthetic appearance of the teeth was improved through restorative treatment.
Magnitude and Factors Associated with Research Misconduct at a Public University in Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Belay Hailu Habtamu , Teka Wolde Telahun , Yirsaw Wubete Betselot , Ali Joseph , Tsegaye Bitew Sintayehu
Published: February 2025

Background Research integrity, essential for ethical scientific research, has been inadequately addressed in Ethiopia, resulting in gaps in addressing misconduct like plagiarism, falsification and fabrication. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude and factors associated with research misconduct at a public university in Ethiopia. Methods An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a random sample of researchers. Data were collected via a self-administered, structured questionnaire, which was adapted from a similar study. The collected data were analysed using descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression. Result A total of 244 researchers participated in the study, resulting in an 82% response rate. In our study, 37.7% of participants reported engaging in at least one form of misconduct, 95% CI [31.6%, 44.1%]. Authorship misconduct was the most common form of self-reported misconduct (47.5%), 95% CI [41.1%, 54.0%], followed by fabrication and falsification (40.6%), 95% CI [34.4%, 47.0%]. Publication pressure was significantly associated with research misconduct (AOR = 3.18; 95% CI: [1.02, 9.95]). Conclusion This study highlights the prevalence of research misconduct and questionable research practices among academic researchers, with authorship misconduct, fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism being the most commonly reported types. Attitudes toward research misconduct and self-reported involvement were influenced by academic position, research experience, and publication pressure, with junior researchers being more likely to report engaging in misbehavior. While ethics training has occasionally been associated with reduced rates of research misconduct, its effectiveness remains uncertain, as institutional culture, supervision, and mentorship may play a more significant role. Addressing research misconduct requires a comprehensive approach that extends beyond ethical instruction, incorporating targeted support for early-career researchers, open dialogue, and institutional policy reforms.
Make youth clubs key to violence response
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: February 2025

Derren Hayes editor, Children & Young People Now derren.hayes@markallengroup.com
Expert view: Tackling school non-attendance with trauma-informed approaches
Authors: Digiorgi Katie
Published: February 2025

I was born in Rochdale and am deeply proud of my town. But my home environment wasn't safe: my sisters and I were neglected and subjected to cruel emotional abuse from our parents.
Practice Examples: Healing Together in residential child care
Authors: Jacobs Nina
Published: February 2025

IN SUMMARY

Implementing a trauma-informed approach across its children's homes has delivered “profound” change for young people and practitioners says provider
Helping families in conflict
Authors: Robutti Sibilla
Published: February 2025

Evaluation of Coram family therapy programme highlights lessons for children's practitioners
US election trip teaches students about making a difference through campaigns
Authors: Vieira Maria
Published: February 2025

Summary

Education charity funds trip to the US to teach students from four UK schools about democracy and provide experience in political campaigning.
Art Activity Books in the Portuguese Nonfiction Context
Authors: Costa Inês , Ramos Ana Margarida
Published: February 2025

Abstract: This study examines a distinct category within nonfiction literature: art activity books. Focusing on the Portuguese publishing landscape, it analyzes three volumes that exemplify this subgenre published by Planeta Tangerina. Despite their limited critical recognition, art activity books establish a unique relationship with readers, inviting active participation and intervention, while introducing specific knowledge about artistic elements and conventions. The research explores how these publications encourage both cognitive and physical engagement through different activities. By investigating the interactive processes inherent in these works, this study highlights their primary objective of fostering creativity and artistic expression, thus bringing readers closer to the world of visual arts. It argues that art activity books represent an innovative trend in the nonfiction context, challenging traditional notions of reader-ship and authorship. The article contributes to a broader understanding of nonfiction books within the Portuguese context and advocates for greater scholarly attention to this underexplored field.
Watt-level femtosecond praseodymium-doped fluoride fiber amplifier at 1300 nm
Authors: Takano Junya , Yamada Tatsuki , Fuji Takao
Published: February 2025

Watt-level chirped pulse amplification based on praseodymium-doped fluoride fibers (Pr3+:ZBLAN) has been demonstrated. We have successfully amplified the 1300 nm dispersive wave from a highly nonlinear fiber to an average power of 1.33 W using a three-stage Pr3+:ZBLAN amplifier. The average power is more than five times higher than that ever achieved with any praseodymium-doped fiber amplifier. The nonlinear phase distortion in the third stage of the amplifier was compensated by adjusting the distance of the compressor based on a pair of gratings. The duration of the compressed pulse was 367 fs, while the Fourier-transform limited pulse duration was 301 fs.
Advancing malaria reactive case detection in a Zambia-like setting: A modeling study
Authors: Chiziba Chilochibi , Chiwaula Japhet , Hamainza Busiku , Silal Sheetal
Published: February 2025

In Zambia-like settings, asymptomatic and clinical carriers not seeking treatment further complicate malaria elimination, making reactive case detection (RCD) essential for identifying undetected infections. However, RCD faces operational hurdles, including resource shortages, logistical challenges, limited community health workers (CHWs), and limitations in availability and sensitive rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). Prioritizing specific improvement measures is critical to enhance intervention outcomes. A mathematical model of malaria transmission for low-transmission areas (fewer than 200 cases per 1,000 annually) was developed using published data to simulate RCD. This model assessed the impact of potential improvement measures designed to address the identified operational challenges affecting RCD. Improvement measures included increasing CHWs, adjusting response times, improving RDT sensitivity, and incorporating focal mass drug administration (fMDA). A shortage of CHWs and limited availability of RDTs have the most negative impact on RCD’s ability to reduce cases. In scenarios where CHWs or RDT availability for RCD were reduced by 50%, annual cases increased by approximately 22%. Only the incorporation of fMDA as an improvement measure succeeded countering the situation, resulting in a 43% reduction. Increasing CHWs to offset RCD inefficiencies caused by limited RDT sensitivity and difficulties finding individuals reduced cases by approximately 13 and 14%, respectively, reducing more cases than improving reaction time or increasing the screening radius. Although RCD is prone to challenges, the manipulation of improvement measures such as CHWs and fMDA provides promise for RCD to contribute towards malaria elimination. However, the participation of CHWs is voluntary and primarily motivated by informal incentives, often provided by donors. Finding sustainable means to ensure the sufficient availability of CHWs may guarantee continued RCD contributions toward maintaining stable malaria prevalence. More research is required to explore the application of RCD in archetypical transmission areas suitable for RCD as improvement measures to the identified challenges hindering RCD.
Mycetoma managment: Therapeutic challenges and the role of pharmacovigilance
Authors: Hussein Samira M. E. , Saeed Ali Awadallah , Fahal Ahmed Hassan
Published: February 2025

Mycetoma presents numerous therapeutic challenges, particularly due to delays in diagnosis, the toxic nature of existing antifungals and antibiotics treatments, and the lack of robust clinical evidence to guide care. This neglected tropical disease, which primarily affects low-resource regions, is further complicated by socio-economic barriers that limit access to healthcare and treatment. These challenges underscore the urgent need for better treatment options, more comprehensive research, and strengthened pharmacovigilance systems to monitor treatment safety and efficacy. Pharmacovigilance plays a critical role in managing mycetoma due to the prolonged and often toxic treatment regimens required. Adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, and treatment side effects need continuous monitoring to ensure patient safety. Effective pharmacovigilance systems should be adapted to the resource-limited settings where mycetoma is most prevalent, integrating into broader public health efforts to improve both the safety and efficacy of treatments. Such systems could greatly enhance patient outcomes by preventing unnecessary harm from toxic therapies and ensuring proper drug use. However, several barriers remain in endemic regions, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure, a lack of trained healthcare professionals, and limited access to pharmacovigilance tools. Addressing these issues requires building stronger national systems, offering more training for healthcare workers, and leveraging innovative technologies such as mobile health tools. Additionally, involving patients in reporting adverse effects could enhance the accuracy and reliability of pharmacovigilance data. Global collaboration and increased clinical research are also essential in improving mycetoma treatment. Investment in these areas, alongside the development of infrastructure and education in endemic countries, will help ensure safer long-term medical therapies and better outcomes for mycetoma patients. Furthermore, improving pharmacovigilance practices is critical to ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the most effective and safe care possible for this neglected disease.