bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA polymerase II at histone genes predicts outcome in human cancer
Authors: Henikoff Steven , Zheng Ye , Paranal Ronald M. , Xu Yiling , Greene Jacob E. , Henikoff Jorja G. , Russell Zachary R. , Szulzewsky Frank , Thirimanne H. Nayanga , Kugel Sita , Holland Eric C. , Ahmad Kami
Published: February 2025

Genome-wide hypertranscription is common in human cancer and predicts poor prognosis. To understand how hypertranscription might drive cancer, we applied our formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE)–cleavage under targeted accessible chromatin method for mapping RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) genome-wide in FFPE sections. We demonstrate global RNAPII elevations in mouse gliomas and assorted human tumors in small clinical samples and discover regional elevations corresponding to de novo HER2 amplifications punctuated by likely selective sweeps. RNAPII occupancy at S-phase-dependent histone genes correlated with WHO grade in meningiomas, accurately predicted rapid recurrence, and corresponded to whole-arm chromosome losses. Elevated RNAPII at histone genes in meningiomas and diverse breast cancers is consistent with histone production being rate-limiting for S-phase progression and histone gene hypertranscription driving overproliferation and aneuploidy in cancer, with general implications for precision oncology.
Understanding the desire for dessert
Authors: Farooqi Sadaf
Published: February 2025

A neural circuit in mice mediates the preference for high-sugar food after a meal
Where does all the water go?
Authors: Taira Taka’aki , Bürgmann Roland
Published: February 2025

Seismic noise measurements map out a deep groundwater recharge system
Face readers
Authors: Lesté-Lasserre Christa
Published: February 2025

Artificial intelligence is becoming better than humans at scanning animals’ faces for signs of stress and pain. Are more complex emotions next?
In Science Journals
Authors: Smith Jesse , Jiang Di , Szuromi Phil , Vignieri Sacha , Osborne Ian S. , Lavine Marc S. , Olingy Claire , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Maroso Mattia , Simonti Corinne , Funk Michael A. , Ross Sarah H. , Stern Peter , Huang Jack , Ogle Molly , Grocholski Brent
Published: February 2025

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Long-term outcome in a cohort of 36 patients with sacral dural arteriovenous fistulae after endovascular embolisation or microsurgery
Authors: Duan Yu , Qin Xuanfeng , Chen Qinyi , Xu Binbin , An Qinzhu , Liao Yujun , Hu Yuanyuan , Chen Gong
Published: February 2025

Objective

Sacral dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is a rare spinal vascular malformation and often misdiagnosed or even mistreated. This study delved into the clinical characteristics, vascular architecture and treatment results of SDAVF, with the goal of enhancing upcoming diagnostic and therapeutic methodologies.

Methods

From March 2014 to March 2022, consecutive patients with SDAVF were retrospectively analysed. The data on demographics, symptom resolution, angioarchitectural features and postoperative course were studied. Spinal cord function was evaluated by modified Aminoff–Logue scale.

Results

A total of 36 patients with 36 SDAVFs were enrolled, 12 of whom were misdiagnosed on their initial visit. The SDAVFs were located at S1 in 24 (66.7%), S2 in 10 (27.8%) and S3 in 2 (5.6%) cases, respectively. The primary feeding arteries included lateral sacral artery (LSA) of internal iliac artery (31/36, 86.1%), the branches of external iliac artery (2/36, 5.6%) and median artery (3/36, 8.3%), most of which are straight. Venae terminalisis is the sole drainage vein, flowing back into perimedullary venous network. Endovascular embolisation is the main therapy method for 30 cases, while the other 6 cases were treated with microsurgical fistulectomy. MRI tests showed that the abnormal vascular signals around the medulla disappeared, and the spinal cord oedema was alleviated in the majority of cases (32/36, 88.9%). Six patients, who all were treated by endovascular embolisation at first time, had residual or recurrent and two of them were performed by microsurgical fistulectomy again. All patients by microsurgical fistulectomy had no residual or recurrent during follow-up. According to the spinal cord functional assessment, the Aminoff-Logue score was significantly decreased (Z=−3.449, p=0.001) postoperatively.

Conclusion

The misdiagnosis rate of SDAVF is very high. The most feeding artery of SDAVF came from the LSA, which was thicker and more straight, making it easier for microcatheters to reach the fistula site. So, endovascular embolism has become the first choice of treatment with minimal invasion, and safe and effective results.
Oral Contraceptive Pill Phase Alters Mechanisms Contributing to Cutaneous Microvascular Function in Response to Local Heating
Authors: Turner Casey G. , Stanhewicz Anna E. , Nielsen Karen E. , Otis Jeffrey S. , Feresin Rafaela G. , Wong Brett J.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of oral contraceptive pill (OCP) phase on in vivo microvascular endothelium-dependent vasodilation and contributions of nitric oxide (NO), cyclooxygenase (COX), and endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factors (EDHF). Participants completed two experimental visits in random order, during the 1) low and 2) high hormone phase of the OCP cycle. Endothelium-dependent dilation was assessed in the cutaneous microvasculature via local heating at four intradermal microdialysis sites treated with: 1) lactated Ringer's (control), 2) 10 mM ketorolac (Keto, COX inhibitor), 3) 50 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA, calcium-activated potassium channel inhibitor), and 4) 10 mM ketorolac + TEA (Keto+TEA). Perfusion of 20 mM L-NAME at each site was used to quantify the L-NAME sensitive component of dilation, suggesting NO contribution. There was no effect of OCP phase on endothelium-dependent dilation ( p=0.75) or the L-NAME sensitive component of the response ( p=0.09, d=0.7) at control sites. Inhibition of COX increased baseline blood flow regardless of OCP phase (all p<0.01). Control and Keto sites elicited greater endothelium-dependent dilation than TEA and Keto+TEA sites in both phases (all p<0.0001). During the low hormone phase, the L-NAME sensitive component was greater at control compared with TEA sites ( p<0.01). During the high hormone phase, the L-NAME sensitive component was greater at Keto compared with TEA sites ( p<0.01). Within-participant differences between control and Keto sites support a phase-dependent restraint of NO activity via COX pathways ( p=0.01). These findings demonstrate that the OCP phase affects underlying mechanistic pathways contributing to cutaneous microvascular endothelial function.
ROLE OF ATRIAL NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE AND OXYTOCIN IN GASTRIC EMPTYING DELAY INDUCED BY RIGHT ATRIAL STRETCH IN RATS
Authors: Palheta Junior Raimundo C. , da Silva Moisés Tolentino Bento , Georgii Ana Débora Nunes Pinheiro , Silva Camila Meirelles Souza , Siqueira Rômmulo Celly Lima , Reis Wagner L , Ruginsk Silvia Graciela , Elias Lucila L.K. , Antunes-Rodrigues José , Santos Armènio A.
Published: February 2025

Fluid volume and osmolality balance are maintained by complex neuroendocrine and liquid-salt intake behavior, cardiovascular and renal mechanisms, and gastrointestinal adjustments. Mechanical stretching of the right atrium (AS) enhances central venous pressure and heart rate while decreasing gastric emptying (GE) of liquid in rats. We evaluated the effect of AS on GE and plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), oxytocin (OT), and corticosterone (CORT) to determine whether ANP contributes to the OT-mediated GE delay of liquids due to AS in awake rats. Initially, we performed thoracotomy followed by right appendectomy (AX) or sham thoracotomy. One week later, rats were randomly subjected for pretreatment with NaCl 0.15 M (control), atosiban (AT, OT-antagonist), anantin (ANT, ANP-antagonist), or dexamethasone (DEX). Afterward, 50 µL of AS was administered for 5 min or not (sham). Then, the rats were fed a test meal, and GE of liquids or solids was performed. The other animals were pretreated with NaCl 0.15 M, atosiban, anantin, or dexamethasone, followed by OT treatment for GE assessment. Compared to the sham group, 50 µL of AS decreased the GE of the liquid and solid test meals. This phenomenon was prevented by AT, ANT, DEX, and surgical procedure with AX. AS also increased plasma levels of ANP, OT, and CORT. In turn, oxytocin treatment decreased GE and increased plasma ANP, OT and CORT levels, while AT, ANT and DEX prevented OT-induced GE delay. Hence, AS delayed GE of liquid in rats, a phenomenon that involves oxytocinergic pathways and ANP activity.
Physiologic mechanisms underlying polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Boletta Alessandra , Caplan Michael J.
Published: February 2025

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) encompasses a class of disorders presenting with bilateral cyst formation in the kidney. PKD can be inherited as a dominant (ADPKD) or a recessive (ARPKD) trait, due to mutations into multiple genes, the most frequent being PKD1, PKD2 and PKHD1. The protein products of these genes (polycystin-1, polycystin-2 and fibrocystin, respectively) have been shown reside within the primary cilium or to be important for the maturation and trafficking of proteins to the primary cilium. The primary cilium is an organelle protruding from the apical surfaces of renal epithelial cells that functions to sense extracellular signals and translate them into intracellular biochemical information. PKD represents the most common monogenic disorder affecting the kidney and the most common manifestation of human ciliopathies. The precise functions of the polycystin and fibrocystin proteins have not yet been fully elucidated, nor have the molecular basis underlying the renal tubule cyst formation that occurs in the absence of sufficient functional expression of these proteins. The genes that are muted in PKD were cloned three decades ago and since their identification a wealth of information regarding their structure, cell biology and physiological properties has been developed. Here, we provide a broad review of the relevant literature and summarize a large body of experimental evidence, while focusing particularly on more recent findings that are poised to change our understanding of the field.
An Empirical Investigation of Speed Patterns on S‐Curves Using Naturalistic Driving Data and Mixed Logit Model
Authors: Lei Cailin , Shen Yu , Ji Yuxiong , Cai Xiaoyu , Du Yuchuan
Published: February 2025

S‐curves are common and complex curves in road networks, consisting of two curves in opposite directions connected by a short segment. Drivers’ behavior on S‐curves reflects their ability to navigate complex environments, which is not yet fully understood. This study examines speed patterns on five S‐curves using a naturalistic driving dataset of 2676 vehicle trajectories. A hierarchical clustering method is proposed to identify typical speed patterns on S‐curves, and a mixed logit model is developed to analyze the influence of curve radius, slope, and lighting conditions on drivers’ speed pattern choices. The empirical findings reveal that (1) each S‐curve has dominant speed patterns, and these patterns vary across different S‐curves; (2) speed patterns generally exhibit three types of shapes: S‐shaped, U‐shaped, and anti‐S‐shaped; and (3) the curve radius, the difference in radii between the two adjacent curves, the slope, and lighting conditions significantly influence drivers’ speed pattern choices. These results provide valuable insights for S‐curve alignment design, speed guidance strategies, and speed planning algorithms for autonomous vehicles.
Rituals of resentment: How dark emotional energy fuels incel identity and solidarity
Authors: Kallio Patrik , Törnberg Anton
Published: February 2025

The incel community presents an intriguing case within social movement studies, marked by a collective sense of victimhood, a negative collective identity, and a self-deprecating view that starkly contrasts with the positive self-image and objectives typical of most social movements. This discrepancy raises questions about what motivates members to continually engage with the community. This study conducts online observations and discourse analysis to offer an in-depth examination of the community's interaction patterns, discursive practices, and ideological beliefs. Using Randall Collins’ Interaction Ritual Chain framework, the analysis uncovers a paradoxical emotional landscape, challenging traditional models of social interactions and emotional energy as described in his framework. Contrary to the anticipated positive emotional outcomes from successful interaction rituals, incels predominantly display negative emotional expressions, which are transformed into discursive symbols fundamental to group identity. This dynamic is especially evident in discussions of suicide, where members frequently and actively encourage each other to take their own lives. The study elaborates on Collins’ theory by proposing the concept of “dark emotional energy” to elucidate the dynamics that not only perpetuate harmful group dynamics but also bolster a collective sense of belonging, providing insights into the complex mechanisms through which destructive ideologies are maintained within online communities.
EXPRESS: The Slang Paradox: Connecting or Disconnecting with Consumers?
Authors: Pyrah Bryce , Wang Jing , Li Yiyi , Xie Ying
Published: February 2025

Many brands use slang in their marketing communications to connect with consumers. However, through analyses of two Twitter datasets and four experiments, we find that the use of slang in marketing communications could have unintended negative consequences for brands. We theorize and demonstrate that slang use in marketing communications can be perceived as inauthentic because such messages violate consumer expectations, leading to less favorable brand perceptions. To refine our understanding, we test conditions under which slang use aligns more with consumer expectations and is therefore perceived as less inauthentic. Specifically, we find that source characteristics play an important role. First, we show that brand personality impacts this process: Consumers have less favorable attitudes when sincere brands use slang, but not when exciting brands use slang. Second, when influencers (instead of brands themselves) publish brand messages, the negative effect of slang disappears. In addition to contributing new theoretical insights, this research provides practical guidance on effective social media engagement strategies by identifying conditions when slang use is perceived as inappropriate or not in marketing communications.
(Un)availability of Social Provisions and the Framing of Loneliness by Black Older Adults in Canada: A Qualitative Narrative Study
Authors: Ojembe Blessing Ugochi
Published: February 2025

Despite the severe implications of loneliness on racialized older adults’ well-being, little is known about this experience among Black older adults. This paper explores how Black older adults in Canada frame the (un)availability of different social provisions and their interplay with loneliness experiences, drawing on the firsthand experiences of 13 Black older adults ( n = 5 male and n = 8 female) with a mean age of 63.8, who were purposefully recruited using narrative inquiry methodology. Analysis of narratives by Black older adults revealed that getting involved with people, intimacy, and belongingness are crucial in establishing a reliable social provision. While many participants emphasized the critical role of social connections and reliable relationships in alleviating loneliness, disparities in access to these essential social ties were noted among Black older adults. This highlights the urgent need to establish more inclusive and supportive environments that effectively address loneliness and social isolation for this population.
Sweet-liking and sugar supplementation as innovative components in substance use disorder treatment: A systematic review
Authors: van Amsterdam Jan , van den Brink Wim
Published: February 2025

Objective:

Substance use disorders are a major global public health concern. While a wide range of psychotherapies and pharmacotherapies are available for their treatment, efficacy is limited and many patients fail to benefit from these treatments. Like addictive substances, sugar seems to trigger the dopaminergic reward centre, and sweet-liking might be a modifier of substance use disorder treatment.

Method:

Systematic review to summarize the role of sugar and sugar-liking in addiction and addiction treatment.

Results:

Evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies suggests that a certain portion of the population has a genetic predisposition for sweet-liking, which might be related to a higher risk for substance use and dependence. Regarding nicotine dependence, glucose supplementation prior to or during smoking cessation rapidly mitigates withdrawal symptoms and increases smoking abstinence rates during nicotine replacement therapy. In alcohol dependence, sweet-liking patients encounter more challenges in achieving abstinence than sweet-disliking patients. In addition, sweet-liking patients with high cravings demonstrate higher abstinence rates than sweet-disliking patients. Finally, sweet-liking is associated with successful outcomes of naltrexone treatment in patients with an alcohol use disorder.

Conclusion:

These findings present promising new challenges and opportunities to fine-tune and optimize treatment protocols in addiction care.
The Effect of Impression Management on Ex-offender Hiring Outcomes Is Not Moderated by Race and Ethnicity of the Ex-offender and Hiring Manager
Authors: Campos Diana , Leonhard Christoph
Published: February 2025

Finding and maintaining employment is difficult for ex-offenders due to their criminal history but often required for community supervision. How ex-offenders discuss criminal history can influence their employment chances. Research has not yet explored moderating effects of race and ethnicity on ex-offender impression management when seeking employment. This study investigates how impression management strategies affect ex-offender hiring and whether race or ethnicity moderates such effects. College students ( N = 198) were randomly assigned to vignettes describing an ex-offender job applicant which varied in impression management and race and ethnicity. Participants rated applicants on factors related to hiring decisions. Results indicate ex-offenders who apologized when discussing criminal history received stronger hiring recommendations. Race and ethnicity of the participant or ex-offender did not moderate the effect of impression management on hiring. Overall, ex-offenders benefitted equally from an apologetic strategy when discussing their criminal history regardless of their or the hiring manager’s race or ethnicity.
Anaesthetic practice and mortality in Scotland compared to England from 1847 to 1914
Authors: McKenzie Alistair G
Published: February 2025

In the second half of the nineteenth century and up to the First World War, anaesthetic practice in Scotland differed markedly from that in England. Chloroform was invariably used in Scotland with apparent disregard for reports of deaths under its influence. By contrast, in England concern about chloroform deaths, which were subject to inquests there, led to ether often being chosen instead. This article examines the different interpretations and handling of chloroform deaths in the two countries, drawing on the medical journals of the period and archived documents. Quite symmetrical claims were made. Whereas in England the danger of chloroform was perceived to be an inherent property of the agent itself, in Scotland the blame was thrown on a timid method of administration. The interpretation in Scotland was supported by a network of doctors who promoted chloroform as effective, safe and easy to administer; manufacturers who had monopoly of its manufacture; and legal practitioners who were uninterested in investigating anaesthetic deaths. Although the reporting of anaesthetic deaths was flawed in England, underreporting was far worse in Scotland. The fear of anaesthetic deaths in England allowed the seeds of specialisation in anaesthesia to germinate, whereas in Scotland the downplaying of anaesthetic risk obviated the notion of such specialisation.
Urine exosomal lncRNAs as novel biomarkers for early diagnosis of bladder cancer based on microarray differential expression profiling
Authors: Li Jun , Zhao Liming , Li Luning , Wang Xiaohua , Gao Yisheng , Gao Yongli , Wang Jinfeng
Published: February 2025

Purpose

We aimed to exploit a urine exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) fingerprint to facilitate the early diagnosis of bladder cancer.

Methods

Microarray differential expression profiling of lncRNAs was for the first time employed in urine exosomes from 10 non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) patients and 10 healthy controls to screen out candidate exosomal lncRNA biomarkers, which were then verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in three independent phases including bladder cancer cells, culture fluid and 200 NMIBC participants. Logistic regression was performed to construct a diagnostic model—the diagnostic potency of which was assessed.

Results

The profile of three exosome-derived lncRNAs (CCDC148-AS1, XLOC_006419, and RP5-1148A21.3) was screened and further verified to be notably over-expressed in NMIBC patients and bladder cancer cell lines, and exhibited area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve values of 0.873, 0.825, and 0.834, respectively, in training, validation, and double-blind validation phases. The profile was superior to urinary cytology in discriminating NMIBC from healthy controls ( P < 0.0001). A significant correlation existed between a higher level of CCDC148-AS1 and a higher tumor grade ( P < 0.001), and up-regulated CCDC148-AS1 as well as XLOC_006419 were statistically related with tumor node metastasis stage ( P = 0.004 and P = 0.031, respectively). These three identified lncRNAs were confirmed to originate from bladder cancer cells and be packaged within exosomes, thus staying sufficiently stable in urine.

Conclusions

Tumor-originated urine exosomal lncRNAs, as fingerprint in NMIBC, exhibited satisfying clinical significance in early diagnosis of bladder cancer.
EXPRESS: Small Donors’ Political Slacktivism: The Relationship between Contribution Format and Subsequent Political Behaviors
Authors: Kim Pureum , Schneider Gustavo , Ghosh Anastasiya Pocheptsova
Published: February 2025

Despite an increasing interest in the topic of marketing and politics, scholars have paid scant attention to a growing citizen stakeholders’ behavior: small donor contributions to political campaigns via the purchase of political merchandise. This paper demonstrates that purchasing merchandise reduces the likelihood of devoting significant effort to support the campaign in the future (political slacktivism) compared to making a financially equivalent monetary donation. The paper makes several contributions: (1) while prior work has examined how political behavior (such as support for a political party) affects consumer purchase decisions, we are the first to examine how political consumption affects political behavior; (2) the paper demonstrates how purchasing political merchandise (vs. making an equivalent monetary donation) reduces the likelihood of engagement in subsequent political behaviors, such as voting; (3) the paper offers insights for political operatives and public policy advocates on how to increase citizens’ political engagement through the donation format. To examine this unique phenomenon, this work focuses on four distinct election cycles and uses a multi-methods approach: analysis of an archival dataset, a longitudinal survey of actual donors, and a set of experiments, including actual consumption of political merchandise.
Sense-making and middle leaders: Analyzing perceptions of role in the development of teacher leadership
Authors: Abu-Shawish Reem Khalid , Ghamrawi Norma
Published: February 2025

Middle leaders (MLs) often face the challenge of fostering teacher leadership (TL) amid complex dynamics of power and role expectations. This study aims to examine how MLs in private schools in the Arab States Region navigate sense-making processes to promote TL within their contexts. Drawing on qualitative case studies and interviews, data reveal a complex discourse on TL that exposes tensions between formal roles and more inclusive, informal leadership positions. Findings indicate that MLs perceive TL development as dependent on both individual and collaborative efforts, carefully balancing centralized and distributed leadership approaches. Influenced by senior leadership and teacher agency, MLs demonstrate a critical awareness of micro-politics, particularly in managing informal power dynamics. The study highlights practical implications for school leadership, suggesting that addressing these informal dynamics is crucial for effective TL development and sustainable leadership practices in educational settings
Family Firm Leader’s Socioemotional Wealth Importance Perceptions: The Influence of Negative Forms of Conflict
Authors: Atılgan Özgür , Kellermanns Franz
Published: February 2025

We investigate how negative types of intra-family conflicts (i.e., status conflict and relationship conflict) influence the family firm leader’s socioemotional wealth importance (SEWi). Based on 159 matched responses from family firm leaders and next-generation family members in Turkish family firms, we hypothesize that these intra-family conflicts are negatively related to the SEWi of the family firm leader. We identify the family firm leader’s succession intention and intergenerational authority as moderators of the relationship between conflict and SEWi. While status conflict has a negative effect on the family firm leader’s SEWi, with succession intention serving as a moderator, relationship conflict affects SEWi only in conjunction with the moderator of intergenerational authority by alleviating the negative effect of relationship conflict on SEWi. We contribute to both the conflict and SEW literature by showing that intra-family conflicts can be important antecedents for SEWi.
Wing movement path planning method during wing-fuselage docking process based on measured data and improved PSO-RRT* algorithm
Authors: Liu Lunqian , Qi Zhenchao , Tian Wei , Wang Ping , Hao Fang
Published: February 2025

Wing-fuselage docking is one of the most crucial stages in the aircraft assembly process. In China, the process of wing-fuselage docking for large aircraft relies on experience and on-the-spot error detection during the docking process currently. However, the inefficiency of the approach makes it difficult to meet the demands of efficient production. Moreover, aircraft wings are susceptible to deformation, and various manufacturing errors can lead to different types of deformations. To address this problem, an inverse planning method for wing docking paths was developed, leveraging measured data and an enhanced PSO-RRT* algorithm. Firstly, a part model was reconstructed using measured point cloud data to depict manufacturing errors accurately. Then, the deformation occurring during the wing positioning process was simulated based on this model. Finally, improved PSO-RRT* algorithm was proposed and the inverse planning of wing docking path was executed. The experiment showed that the average absolute error between wing deformation simulation and measured values is 0.0015 mm. The maximum absolute error is 0.03182 mm. Finally, to ensure that the generated path can be used for the actual assembly process. A path smoothing method based on cubic spline interpolation was proposed, and the path was segmented.
Exploring Interleukin-6 Inhibitor Antibodies in Combatting SARS-CoV-2 and Its Mutated Variants: Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Bakkari Mohammed Ali , Ghoal Gassem , Sabei Fahad Y. , Safhi Awaji Y. , Moni Sivakumar S.
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibitor antibodies as a therapeutic agent to combat severe COVID-19. Given the constant evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its variants, the study aims to assess the potential of these inhibitors in adapting to new challenges and improving treatment outcomes. A comprehensive review of relevant literature was conducted using electronic databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The study analyzed the role of IL-6 inhibitors in combating SARS-CoV-2, focusing on their therapeutic potential in treating severe COVID-19 cases, particularly in controlling the overshooting immune response associated with cytokine storms. IL-6 inhibitors proved to be versatile and effective in attenuating severe immune responses, especially cytokine storms, which are common in advanced COVID-19 cases. The literature emphasizes their ability to regulate the immune system, reduce disease severity, and improve patient outcomes. Their efficacy in controlling the immune response and reducing disease severity makes IL-6 inhibitor antibodies a promising therapeutic strategy for severe SARS-CoV-2 and its new variants. Further research is needed to optimize their use and adaptability in evolving clinical scenarios.
Pyovagina and sepsis due to Streptococcus didelphis in a Virginia opossum
Authors: Rebollada-Merino Agustín , Chan Taylor C. , Guarino Cassandra , Taylor Ryan P. , Hitchener Gavin R.
Published: February 2025

Virginia opossums ( Didelphis virginiana) are the only native marsupials in the United States of America and Canada. Females have a reproductive tract consisting of a complex duplex (bifurcated) reproductive system, with 2 ovaries, 2 uteri and uterine tubes, and a vaginal complex composed of 2 lateral vaginae, vaginal sinuses, and a urogenital sinus. Few conditions of the reproductive tract have been described in these marsupials. A 2-y-old, female Virginia opossum was presented because of hematuria and was found dead shortly after admission. The autopsy revealed left lateral vaginal torsion and pyovagina. Streptococcus didelphis was isolated and identified from the lateral vaginal exudate, blood, and liver using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Histologic examination confirmed suppurative and lymphoplasmacytic vaginitis, endometritis, cystitis, pyelonephritis and interstitial nephritis, portal hepatitis with fibrosis, myocarditis, and adrenalitis with intralesional gram-positive cocci. These results suggest ascending S. didelphis infection of the lateral vagina with subsequent torsion, bacterial translocation, bacteremia, and sepsis as the cause of death.
Economic Evaluation of Free Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmissions (PMTCT) Services to Non-South African Women Living in South Africa
Authors: Boachie Micheal Kofi , Bhardwaj Vinayak , Mamabolo Bontle , Mdewa Winfrida , Goldstein Susan , Hofman Karen , Thsehla Evelyn
Published: February 2025

Approximately 1.33 million pregnancies are recorded in South Africa annually. About 30% of all pregnant women are HIV positive, posing a serious risk to unborn children. However, effective interventions such as prevention of mother-to-child transmissions (PMTCT) services have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child or vertical transmission. Migrant women in South Africa face challenges in accessing [free] healthcare services. This study aims to assess the cost-effectiveness of providing free PMTCT services to migrant women living in South Africa. We employed cost-effectiveness analysis methodology to establish the cost and outcomes (averted pediatric infections and averted disability-adjusted life years (DALYs)) associated with free PMTCT services for migrant women. The comparator was provision of only antenatal care (ANC) while the intervention was ANC + PMTCT services. A Microsoft Excel-based decision tree model was designed to achieve the study objectives. Data on costs and health outcomes for each intervention was sourced from the literature on HIV/AIDS. The prevalence-based study is conducted from a public sector healthcare payer perspective. Provision of ANC + PMTCT services to migrants will prevent 14 562 new infections among 52 762 HIV positive pregnant women. The estimated total expected cost of ANC + PMTCT service was US$52 889 per 1000 live births compared to US$191 000 for ANC only per 1000 live births. The expected cost for the do-nothing scenario was US$73 535 per 1000 live births. The expected health benefit (ie, averted DALYs) associated with do-nothing scenario, ANC, and ANC + PMTCT were 277, 265 and 76 DALYs, respectively. ANC + PMTCT service provision produces the lowest DALYs at lower cost thereby producing cost-saving of US$733/DALY averted per 1000 live births. Further, an average of US$1.5 million would be required annually to achieve 100% coverage of HIV+ migrant women. Therefore, provision of ANC and PMTCT services to migrant women is cost-effective when compared to not offering PMTCT services and allows the government to avoid the long-term cost of antiretroviral therapy (ART) provision.
Hypoxic human adipose mesenchymal stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles induce P311 expression and inhibit activation and injury of human brain microvascular endothelial cells
Authors: Zhang Yun , Zhao Hanghang , Su Yu , Yang Shudong , Kang Tao , Li Li
Published: February 2025

Objective

Stem cell therapy can modify angiogenic pathways. Neural protein 3.1 (P311) possesses the pro-angiogenic property. This study strived to explore the action and mechanism of human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) in human brain microvascular endothelial cell (hBMEC) injury by regulating P311.

Methods

The hADSCs of the 3rd passage were stained with oil red O, Alizarin red, and Alcian blue to assess adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic differentiation, followed by an analysis of immune phenotype via flow cytometry. After culturing hADSCs in hypoxic (5% oxygen) and normoxic (20% oxygen) conditions, extracellular vesicles (EVs) were extracted via ultracentrifugation, followed by morphology observation by microscopy, size distribution analysis via Nanoparticle tracking analysis, and surface marker determination by Western blot. hBMECs were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and cultured with normoxia or hypoxic hADSC-EVs. The effects of normoxia and hypoxic hADSC-EVs on proliferation, migration, and tube formation of hBMECs were assessed via CCK-8, Transwell, and tube formation assays. hBMECs were transfected with pcDNA3.0-P311 or P311 siRNA to evaluate the action of P311 on hBMEC injury.

Results

Hypoxic hADSC-EVs had a larger mean diameter, a wider diameter distribution range, and a higher particle concentration than normoxic hADSC-EVs. Hypoxia and normoxic hADSC-EVs were internalized by hBMECs, and hypoxic hADSC-EVs were more internalized. LPS suppressed hBMEC proliferation, migration, and tube formation and induced hBMEC injury. Hypoxia and normoxic hADSC-EVs ameliorated hBMEC injury, and hypoxic hADSC-EVs were superior to normoxic hADSC-EVs. P311 overexpression mitigated hBMEC injury, whereas P311 knockdown partly averted hypoxic hADSC-EV-exerted suppression on hBMEC injury.

Conclusion

Hypoxic hADSC-EVs can protect against LPS-induced hBMEC injury by upregulating P311.
Liminality, flow and communitas in 5 Rhythms dance
Authors: Keltner-McNeil Natalie , Banfield Janet
Published: February 2025

Liminality, flow, communitas and 5 Rhythms (5R) dance are all considered to have self-transformative powers, and 5R has been analysed as ritual, as movement therapy and as psychologically beneficial. Here, we take methodological inspiration from 5R as movement therapy via nonrepresentational geography, we attend to specific ways in which 5R can be psychologically beneficial by considering participant-identified paths to personal growth, and we examine links between 5R and ritual through a de/reconstruction of the 5R experience as liminal. Drawing on autoethnography and retrospective participant accounts within a research design characterised as ‘experimenting experience’, we identify myriad micro-liminalities that differ between dance contexts, vary within an individual dance context, and extend beyond the dance context, as well as a set of liabilities that constrain transformative potential. We advance recent work on liminality that moves beyond singular ideas of liminal spaces to multiple spatialities of liminality by framing 5R as an alchemy of liminalities. We also extend critical engagements with the proposed dimensions of flow with respect to its supposed sense of control by proposing the grounding of 5R flow in the lack of control generated by those liminalities, and we challenge the idea that individual flow leads to collective communitas by highlighting the incompatibility between loss of self-awareness in flow and the focus on self-identity in communitas, suggesting instead that flow and communitas are themselves related in liminal fashion in 5R. Thus, we make conceptual contributions to geography, psychology, anthropology and beyond, with potential to stimulate future scholarship in a host of cultural geographical domains, and we offer tentative suggestions as to how we might mobilise ‘experimenting experience’ for further development in these contexts.
Among the Casters: A Qualitative Study of Work and Play in Nottingham's Lead Belt
Authors: Williams Ian
Published: February 2025

This article is a qualitative study of work and play in the miniatures wargames industry. It was conducted over 5 weeks in Nottingham, UK and consists of 26 semi-structured interviews with freelance workers and employees of two studios, Mantic Games and Warlord Games. Interviews concentrate on worker motivation, encounters with history through games, and the role of gender in miniatures wargames. Key findings reveal that sector workers see their work as a more honest form of craft than that found at Games Workshop, publishers of the Warhammer series of games, and that sector workers engage in hybrid forms of work-play through their professions. Lastly, it locates what Paul Gilroy calls postcolonial melancholia in design practices.
Ideating on the planetary future: Prognosis and prospects
Authors: Desai Bharat H , Desai Jay B
Published: February 2025

At the Stockholm + 50 (June 2–3, 2022) event, the UN Secretary-General (UNSG) Antonio Guterres warned the assembled world leaders that we have not kept our promises on the environment since our consumption is “at the rate of 1.7 planets a year” and the “global well-being is in jeopardy.” It set the global alarm bells ringing for the global decision-makers. The gathering storms indicate smoldering of a planetary-level environmental crisis. It appears, the humankind has literally sleepwalked into an existential planetary crisis. Does this planetary crisis cast shadows of the coming events before as we enter the second quarter of the twenty-first century? Can we reverse the planetary crisis? What lies in store for the planetary future with rapidly “depleting time”? This ‘moment of truth’ posits some existential questions for the humankind. It is in this context that this paper modestly engages in preliminary prognosis as well as search for prospects for our planetary future. It calls for ideating on the nature and content of the planetary crisis and moots some initial workable proposals to augment ‘low-hanging’ instrumentalities for securing future of the humankind and the planet Earth. The Pact for the Future, outcome document of the UN Summit of the Future (New York; September 22–23, 2024), reflected in the UNGA (resolution 79/1 of September 22, 2024) is indicative of the limits of multilateralism at work as it is neither inspiring nor adequate for a decisive course correction and attaining the intended objectives for a robust planetary future. With some 59 conflicts raging in the world that jeopardize the lives of one-fourth (2 billion) of the global population (8 billion) and 700 million people (2024) facing undernourishment (hunger), we need many more concrete ideas along with an effective blueprint of international environmental governance to enable walking-the-talk for salvaging our planetary future.
Efficiency of Cephalic Vein Only Anastomosis During Radial Forearm Free Flap
Authors: Mousa-Doust Dorsa , Tran Khanh Linh , Bahat-Dinur Anat , Kwon Jamie Jae Young , Deane Emily C. , Anderson Donald W. , Durham J. Scott , Prisman Eitan
Published: February 2025

Importance

The closure technique for the radial forearm free flap (RFFF), a commonly utilized flap in head and neck reconstruction, remains a debated topic as there are unique advantages and drawbacks to each technique.

Objective

The present study aims to report on the outcomes of the closure of the RFFF with the superficial cephalic vein (CV)-only system in terms of venous compromise and flap survival.

Methods (Design, Setting, Participants, Intervention, Measures)

A retrospective review of patients who underwent head and neck reconstruction with RFFF between January 2015 and May 2021 at the authors’ institution was performed. Cases were categorized as superficial, dual, and deep systems. Multiple population and operative variables were collected for the study group.

Results

In total, 221 cases of RFFF were included, of which 169 (76.5%) cases were performed using the CV alone, whereas the remaining 52 (22.5%) cases utilized either the dual or the deep system alone. The operative time in the superficial group was 265 minutes. There were 9 venous complications in the CV group, of which 5 required re-exploration in the operating room and 4 were treated conservatively. All venous-related flap complications were salvaged.

Conclusion and Relevance

A majority of the RFFF cases could successfully be completed using the CV as the sole venous drainage, with high rates of flap survival, low complications, and low operative time.
Process evaluation of technologically assisted senior care using mixed methods: Results of the virtual assisted living (VAL, German: VBW Virtuell Betreutes Wohnen) project
Authors: Jansen Eva , Supplieth Juliana , Lech Sonia , Zöllick Jan , Schuster Johanna
Published: February 2025

Objective

Technologically assisted support systems and social support in everyday life can help senior citizens live longer independently in their homes. The purpose of this process evaluation is to investigate an innovative care model integrating monitoring technology with social support services, aimed at enabling senior citizens to live independently and extend their longevity in their homes.

Methods

Data collection of this mixed-method study was conducted through three distinct sources: expert interviews with employees of the participating social service, focus groups with seniors participating in the intervention, and involved consortium partners in the project. Following Kuckartz's methodology, we employed a structural qualitative content analysis using MAXQDA software. Additionally, a portion of the standardized survey administered post-intervention to participants was analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

The focus groups identified key challenges related to technical implementation such as false alarms and the failure of sensors as well as communication between invested parties. However, significant potential was noted in the practical execution of the intervention and social care. Interview participants emphasized the need for improved technical implementation. Results from the questionnaires indicate a generally positive perception of the intervention, particularly regarding its social dimensions.

Conclusions

Surveying individuals who implement and utilize assistive technology can yield valuable insights into its effectiveness. Additionally, it is crucial to comprehensively and in detail capture the experiences of those involved in testing new care models. Future research on assistive technologies for older adults should integrate both technical and social support components, while also addressing secure data protection measures and the paradox of reassurance.
Protocol for a usability and pilot implementation study of a digital medical device to assess pain in non-verbal people with dementia in Portuguese residential care facilities
Authors: Pereira Guerreiro Mara , Félix Isa Brito , Tomé Morgane , Hoti Kreshnik , Ramos Catarina , Dias Beatriz , Andrade Teresa , Brito José , Hughes Jeff
Published: February 2025

Objective

People living with moderate to severe dementia (PLWD) are often unable to self-report pain. This matter is of particular concern given that up to 80% experience chronic pain. Mistreated or untreated pain in PLWD is associated with symptoms such as agitation and aggression, and unnecessary use of antipsychotic agents. Further, it can also engender mental burden in formal caregivers. The PainChek® App, a regulatory cleared class I medical device, enables the assessment and monitoring of pain in people who cannot verbalise it, such as those with moderate to severe dementia. To date there are no data on the real-world use of the PainChek® App in Portugal. To address this gap, we report the protocol of a pilot study, which combines usability evaluation and implementation research.

Methods

Usability evaluation of the PainChek® (Portuguese) App will be guided by the ISO framework, focused on effectiveness, efficiency and user satisfaction. Implementation research will combine qualitative interviews to inform the implementation process, a longitudinal study of formal caregivers’ psychological variables, implementation outcomes, plus qualitative interviews to explore the ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ of implementation. The NASSS framework will be used as an implementation framework, together with the COM-B model and the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Results

The usability and implementation studies have received ethics approval from the Egas Moniz Ethics Committee, under numbers 1367 and 64/24, respectively.

Conclusion

This study is expected to inform the scale-up of the PainChek® (Portuguese) App in real-world settings and establish a foundation for a larger effectiveness and implementation study.