bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RECOVERY OF THE SOIL AND PLANT COVER IN THE SKID TRAILS AFTER THINNING IN MYRTILLUS TYPE FORESTS OF THE NORTHERN TAIGA
Authors: Ilintsev Aleksey S. , Nakvasina Elena N. , Amosova Irina B.
Published: February 2025

Disturbance of soil and plant cover caused by logging operations results in various damages and can give rise to soil degradation and plant succession. We studied the recovery of soil and plant cover in the damaged skid trails of different periods after two-stage thinning of the Piceeta myrtillosum type forest. Thinning was conducted in 1973 and in 2002. The in-situ soil cover is represented by podzolic light loamy soil overlying heavy moraine loam. Tree-felling was carried out using a chainsaw, and tree-length skidding was carried out using a TDT-55 cable skidder. We studied the species composition and species ratios for different ecological groups of grass-shrub and moss layers, forest litter formation and soil properties and found higher plant species diversity in the skid trails and dissemination of the wetland group species, with Sphagnum mosses being indicators of swamping. These features provide thicker forest litter in the skid trails rather than in cut strips in the course of plant cover restoration. Due to swamping, the thickness of the forest litter increases in the process of succession. In the course of the natural recovery of the skid trails, the most significant changes of the soil were observed at the depth of 0–10 cm. The bulk density in the upper layer of the soil significantly reduces to 0.85–0.98 g.cm-3, when that of the cut strips is 1.19 g.cm-3. This results in organogenic substances associated with detritus decomposition and peat litter formation entering into the mineral part of the soil. At the depth of 10–20 cm, compaction caused by machinery passage is noted both 17 years and 46 years after thinning. In the myrtillosum forest type, the recovery of plant and soil cover typical of Piceeta myrtillosum in the conditions of the northern taiga subzone, was not observed for 50 years.
Acknowledgements. The results of the plant renewal section were obtained within the Russian Science Foundation grant (project No. 23-76-01014, https://rscf.ru/project/23-76-01014/»). The results of the soil properties restoration section were obtained within within the grant of Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation (project No. MK-2622.2021.5).
The authors thank N. Tsarev and A.-A. Dunaeva for their assistance in field data collection in the studied sites.
IN VITRO RESPONSE OF COTINUS COGGYGRIA SCOP. TO THE SPETRAL RADIATION AND LEDS INTENSITY
Authors: Zholobova Olga O. , Mogilevskaya Irina V.
Published: February 2025

Background. Modern wide-spectrum LED installations' application under strictly controlled conditions with the correct choice of the quantitative and qualitative light composition helps the microclonal propagation of species Cotinus coggygria Scop., used in agroforestry, landscaping, and pharmaceuticals.
Purpose. Choosing the best photomorphogenesis parameters in vitro on a hormone-free medium for C. coggygria as a perspective plant species for commercial uses.
Materials and methods. The effect of 15 lighting options, namely 6 ratios of red (R), blue (B), and green (G) spectra, on the composition of LEDs on C. coggygria explants in vitro by methods used in microclonal propagation was studied. The biochemical parameters’ content in the samples of the studied leaves was determined using the optical method. Statistical data processing was carried out using the Statistica 12.0 application package (StatSoft, USA).
Results. Determining the parameters of regenerants and leaf plates cultivated in vitro, as well as the pigment leaves’ composition, made it possible to select the optimal spectral ratio (1R:1B:0.5G) and PPFD values (40–70 µmol m-2 s-1) to obtain maximum results at cultivation on a hormone-free medium according to the Murashige and Scoog protocol. During the analysis of C. coggygria biochemical leaf composition, the maximum total chlorophyll amounts (17-21.5 μg cm2) and NBI (67.8-71.0 с.u.) and the minimum flavonoids and anthocyanins amounts were obtained, which confirms the normal photosynthetic’ apparatus work of the studied microshoots.
Conclusion. The results obtained can be recommended to be used for optimizing the micropropagation technology of C. coggygria.
Funding. The research was carried out within the framework of the state assignment of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation No.122020100427-1 To develop a scientific basis for the preservation and reproduction of valuable wood and shrubs genotypes in culture in vitro.
ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECT OF CLIMATIC FACTORS ON THE INDICATORS OF RED GRAPE VARIETIES
Authors: Cherviak Sofia N. , Rybalko Evgeniy A. , Oleinikova Veronica A. , Ermikhina Marianna V.
Published: February 2025

Heat and moisture supply are key climatic parameters to determine the possibility and efficiency of growing crops including grapes. Climate change causes a significant uncertainty not only in potential adaptive capabilities of grape plants, but also in the prospects of viticulture development in general.
This problem assumes a greater importance in the context of global climate change, since this process can lead to a shift in the areas of high-quality viticulture and winemaking.
Studying the patterns of influence of climatic factors on the productivity of vineyards and quality characteristics of raw materials, as well as final products will allow optimizing the efficiency of using natural resources, and reducing the negative impact of climate change on agricultural production.
The goal of the work is to study the effect of climatic factors on biochemical and physicochemical indicators of red grape varieties.
Materials and methods. The objects of the study were red grape varieties ‘Bastardo Magarachskiy’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’, growing in different viticulture and winemaking region of Crimea. As climatic indices characterizing the heat and moisture supply of the territory, we used the total amount of precipitation from the beginning of growing season until harvest, the total amount of precipitation for the last month before harvest, hydrothermal coefficient of Selyaninov, as well as the sum of active temperatures above 10 °C (∑ Т°С10), Huglin heliothermal index (HI), Winkler index (WI), average air temperature from the growing season beginning until harvest (tgr), average air temperature for the last month before harvest (tmonth), cool night index (CI). To assess the carbohydrate-acid complex of grapes, the following indicators were used: mass concentration of sugars, titratable acids and malic acid.
Results and conclusion. Distribution of climatic factors characterizing different viticulture and winemaking regions of Crimea, as well as their effect on the quality characteristics of raw materials were assessed. It was established that the Mountain Valley Coastal and Mountain Valley viticulture and winemaking regions were characterized by higher values of Winkler and Huglin indices (by 354-435 and 97-124 units, respectively), than the Crimean Western Coastal Piedmont region and the city of Sevastopol. A similar tendency was observed for the indicators tmonth, tgr and CI. A linear dependence of the mass concentration of sugars in a berry on the level of heat supply in the region during growing season was established (rwi = 0.73). A correlation was estimated between Pgr and the mass concentration of malic acid in a berry (r = 0.88-0.9). Based on the meteorological data, the patterns established will allow oenologists to estimate quality indicators of further harvest, and plan in advance technological aspects of grape processing in order to obtain high-quality wine products.
Remote electronic voting in the view of Russian students: results of an empirical study
Authors: Alekseev Roman , Ezhov D.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of the study is to present, based on the results of a survey of students of Russian universities, an expert assessment of the attitude of the younger generation to remote electronic voting and the representativeness of the results of this innovative form of expression of the will of voters. To conduct the research, empirical scientific methods were used - a survey and a questionnaire, which was attended by 211 undergraduate and graduate students from six domestic universities studying at political science, law, history and other faculties. The expert assessment method was also used, which was used to structure, summarize and interpret the results obtained. The answers of the respondents received by the authors of the study during the survey and student questionnaire were compared with the results of the VTSIOM monitoring study conducted in 2024 to identify the views of Russian citizens on their attitude to DEG and the prospects for its application in elections at all levels throughout the Russian Federation. The results of the comparative analysis are obtained. The theoretical significance of the study lies in the increment of the previously obtained results of surveys of key domestic sociological services and news agencies on the attitude of representatives of the younger generation to online voting. The practical significance lies in the author's proposals formulated based on the research results obtained, aimed at improving the online voting procedure and public monitoring of both the expression of the will of voters and the counting of votes of online voters in order to give the results of the DEG greater legitimacy in the eyes of the electoral corps. Conclusions are drawn about the need to improve the regulatory and legal regulation of the implementation of DEG and procedures for counting votes and making public the results of the expression of the will of voters.
The category «system-tradition» as the basis of value turn of Russian public policy
Authors: Rakhmanov Sergey
Published: February 2025

The purpose of the article is to make a hypothesis about the perspectives of category «system-tradition» at the making of public discourse in the modern Russia. The significance of theme is related to the importance of value turn of public policy, to the development of humanitarian innovations approved with traditional Russian values. Article contains the review about theoretical studies of political values by modern Russian scientists. In author view the monograph by Aver'yanov V.V. «Tradition and dynamic conservatism» is more significant and has defined the vectors of academic discourse. There is the earlier own article by author in the same way: «The kinds of value conflicts during the changing of state policy paradigm and governance». Author researches the phenomenon of modern political public discourse using the concept «tradition-system» and points out possibilities of axiological approach to the field of public policy and public administration. The methodology and methods of this study are comparative approach, axiological approach, content analysis, analogy method, system analysis, SWOT-analysis. Results: there is the opened and approved interconnection between the concept of «tradition-system» and the dynamics of political public discourse, there is the actual science issue relating to the forming of the basis of public administration system with traditional political values and other values, also there is the assessment of methodology situation about the using of concept «tradition-system» in the public administration field and in the public policy field. The theoretical significance of the work lies in using the concept «system-tradition» by author to make and use the system value analysis of political public discourse and public governance. The practical significance of the work is providing the research of traditional Russian values in the public administration system in the Russian Federation.
The role of the Patriotic Front and socio-political organizations of Vietnam in the national policy of ensuring ethnic
Authors: Nguyen Thi Anh
Published: February 2025

Within the framework of the article, the author suggests defining the place and role of the Patriotic Front and socio-political organizations of Vietnam in the policy of ethnic equality as the purpose of the study. The research used methods of analysis, synthesis, and interpretation of data from Vietnamese research agencies, which provide a qualified assessment of the activities of the National Front and socio-political organizations in Vietnam aimed at pursuing a policy of ethnic equality. From a theoretical point of view, the article contributes to the system of scientific research on the policy of ethnic equality and the role of state institutions. From a practical point of view, the results of the article's research confirm that the implementation of specific functions and tasks of these organizations greatly contributes to the successful implementation of the policy of ethnic equality pursued in Vietnam. The author concludes that the key role of the National Front and socio-political organizations is as a "bridge of will and aspirations" between the government and the people, contributing to the implementation of state policy and improving the quality of life of people. Nevertheless, in order to further strengthen the role and importance of these organizations in the field of national policy for ensuring ethnic equality, changes should be made in the functioning of institutions, improving the mechanism of work and improving the level of skills of human resources.
Pre-classification method for detecting the vegetation cover changes in Vietnam using Landsat time series data
Authors: Trinh Le Hung , Le Van Phu , Nguyen Thi Thu Nga
Published: February 2025

In recent years, the process of socio-economic development and population growth have negatively affected the vegetation cover in the Central Highlands region (Vietnam), leading to a decline in forest cover area and quality. This article presents the results of monitoring and detecting the changes in vegetation cover in Dak Lak province (Vietnam) from Landsat image data for the period 2000 - 2020. Three Landsat image scenes, including Landsat TM images taken on March, 2000, February, 2010 and Landsat 8 OLI images taken on February, 2020 were used to calculate the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), then the NDVI value is classified into 05 ranges: NDVI < -0.2, -0.2 < NDVI < 0, 0 < NDVI < 0.2, 0.2 < NDVI < 0.4, 0.4 < NDVI< 0.6 and NDVI > 0.6. The NDVI differencing and thresolding methods are used to evaluate spatio-temporal changes in vegetation cover quality at 3 categories: decreasing, increasing and no-change during the researh period. The results show that there is a significant change in the vegetation cover for the period 2000 - 2020. Among them, the majority vegetation cover with decreased quality is natural forest, while the vegetation areas with increased quality are mainly planted forests and industrial trees. The results received in the study provide objective and timely information, helping managers in monitoring and protecting forest resources.
Comparison of effectiveness in smoking cessation using nicotine replacement therapy and electronic cigarettes
Authors: Kopaczyńska Adrianna , Szafrańska Katarzyna , Niemirka Szymon , Janiak Aleksandra , Dominiczak Kinga , Grądalski Łukasz , Dębicki Filip
Published: February 2025

Nicotine, a potent psychoactive alkaloid found in tobacco leaves, is recognized for its high addictive potential, contributing to over 8 million deaths annually according to the World Health Organization. This article explores the complexities of nicotine addiction, highlighting its dual nature as both a learned behavior and a physical dependence. Despite approximately 70% of smokers expressing a desire to quit, achieving long-term cessation often requires multiple attempts, typically around six. Nicotine replacement therapy has been shown to enhance cessation success rates significantly, with various forms available, including skin patches, chewing gum, nasal and oral sprays, inhalers, lozenges, and tablets. Personalized dosing and combined pharmacotherapy with behavioral support are recommended for optimal outcomes. However, the rise of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) as an alternative to traditional smoking has introduced new opportunities in smoking cessation efforts. While e-cigarettes are marketed as safer alternatives, their effectiveness in promoting long-term abstinence remains contentious, with studies indicating that they may aid short-term cessation but not necessarily improve long-term quitting rates. The impact of electronic cigarettes on smoking cessation also remains controversial, taking into consideration how little today's medicine does know about the long-term side effects of using e-cigarettes. This article emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to treating nicotine addiction, combining pharmacotherapy with behavioral support, and highlights the need for further research to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of e-cigarettes as cessation tools.
The Impact of Antibiotics on the Development of Colorectal Cancer – A Review of Current Insights and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Zagórski Karol , Kozik Mateusz , Skalska-Dziobek Nina , Małagocka Weronika , Chybowska Karolina , Naruszewicz Maria , Cetnarowski Przemysław
Published: February 2025

Introduction and purpose: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common neoplasms in the world. In Poland, CRC has a third place in incidence. There are numerous well-established risk factors for CRC, such as a western diet, low physical activity, alcohol consumption, and cigarettes smoking. Currently, the role of the colonic microbiome and the overuse of antibiotics is also highlighted in the pathogenesis of CRC. This review aims to assess the impact of antibiotic use on CRC risk, clinical characteristics, and pathological features.
 
Material and methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted through the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Google Scholar. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, clinical trials and observational studies were included if they were relevant and provided data on the influence of antibiotics on CRC.
 
State of knowledge: This review identified several key systematic reviews with meta-analyses of observational studies indicating that antibiotics have an impact on the onset, time of development, and localisation of CRC. The classes and spectrum of antibiotics were found to differ in the risk of occurrence of CRC.
 
Summary: Recently, great progress has been made in understanding a variety of antibiotics-microbiota-cancer interactions. However, further research is needed to deepen our knowledge about the contribution of antibiotic use to CRC. Clinicians should carefully consider the benefits and risks of prescribing antibiotics, including possible long-term adverse events such as cancer onset.
Magnetic Vestibular Stimulation (MVS). A research tool with possible implementation in rehabilitation of stroke-affected athletes – a review
Authors: Olszanecka Monika , Olszanecki Tomasz , Hanslik Anna , Białek Agata , Walczak Agnieszka , Mendak Magdalena
Published: February 2025

Background: People often experience vertigo and other co-occurring effects caused by the action of a strong magnetic field, such as those found in the MRI generator. This effect is a result of vestibular stimulation of the inner ear, the mechanism being a magnetohydrodynamic force (Lorentz force) which is generated by the interaction between normal ionic currents in the endolymph of the inner ear and the strong magnetic fields of the static MRI devices. The result of the induction is magnetic vestibular stimulation (MVS).
Aim of the study: This study aims to present potential of MVS in research of vestibular function, hemispatial neglect syndrome (HNS) and rehabilitation.
Materials and Methods: PubMed and Google Scholar were searched using keywords including “magnetic vestibular stimulation”, “hemispatial neglect syndrome”, “caloric vestibular stimulation”, “galvanic vestibular stimulation”, “rehabilitation” in different combinations.
Materials and Methods: PubMed and Google Scholar were searched using keywords including “magnetic vestibular stimulation”, “hemispatial neglect syndrome”, “caloric vestibular stimulation”, “galvanic vestibular stimulation”, “rehabilitation” in different combinations.
Results: Several studies have been conducted using MVS, bringing new light to set-point adaptation of vestibular system. Moreover, MVS can induce spatial attention bias similar to HNS for at least one hour during session.
Conclusions: MVS is a novel tool with many possibilities in e.g. vestibular research. Apart from research, it may have great potential in rehabilitation of patients with HNS – which could be beneficial also for athletes affected by stroke.
Convex Chance-Constrained Programs with Wasserstein Ambiguity
Authors: Shen Haoming , Jiang Ruiwei
Published: February 2025

Chance constraints, under either known or ambiguous distributions, yield nonconvex feasible regions in general. This paper identifies sufficient conditions that lead to convex feasible regions of chance constraints with Wasserstein ambiguity. Notably, it generalizes the seminal work of other authors, which established the convexity of joint chance constraints under log-concave probability distributions, to the distributionally robust and distributionally optimistic settings.
Long-term health conditions: asthma
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: February 2025

This new series of articles will explore a number of long-term health conditions and disabilities in terms of what the conditions are and are not, how the condition presents itself, management strategies and the roles of the healthcare assistant and nursing associate. The second of these articles will explore asthma.
A novel antidepressant intervention for outpatient psychiatry
Authors: Garcia Gryan
Published: February 2025

This article explores the potential of the novel antidepressant dextromethorphan-bupropion in addressing treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Traditional approaches, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, alongside antipsychotic agents, often prove insufficient. Amid a global surge in TRD post-COVID-19, dextromethorphan-bupropion emerges as an effective treatment option for a subset of 52 patients. Results indicated 27 patients experienced improvement within 2 weeks and 43 achieved remission after 2 months of dextromethorphan-bupropion use. While acknowledging limitations, particularly in a medically under-served demographic, this article advocates for the integration of novel antidepressants into TRD management guidelines. Caution must be exercised given the small sample size; however, dextromethorphan-bupropion stands as a promising therapeutic cornerstone offering renewed hope to those navigating the challenging terrain of TRD and prompting broader discussions for future collaborative research.
Multimodal management of low back pain with sciatica in primary care
Authors: Cave Peter , Lewington Michelle
Published: February 2025

Physiotherapists in the UK are one example of allied health professionals being imbedded into primary care to address specific workstreams to reduce the burden on GPs. By improving access to see a physiotherapist, patients will have quicker access to expert diagnosis and treatment, helping them to manage their musculoskeletal conditions more effectively and recover faster, so they can return to normal life quickly. Low back pain is a common yet complex condition and it is now recognised that a multimodal approach to treatment is required for favourable outcomes. Independent prescribing enables physiotherapists to cover all the recognised elements of management ensuring a seamless patient journey and preventing delayed treatment. This article details the role of a physiotherapist independent prescriber using a case study of a patient with low back pain with sciatica.
Drug Breakdown: SIROLIMUS
Authors: Rees Sharon
Published: February 2025

In this column, Sharon Rees aims to refresh knowledge and interest in some of the commonly used drugs in a series of posts on X. This month she is talking about #sirolimus
Victorian Feminist Periodicals and the New Indian Woman: Indian Women’s Interviews in the Women’s Penny Paper and the Woman’s Signal
Authors: Bhamburkar Tarini
Published: February 2025

Abstract: This article traces the Women’s Penny Paper and Woman’s Signal ’s reporting of an emerging Indian feminism. These feminist periodicals published groundbreaking interviews with two Indian women reformers: the social reformer Pandita Ramabai Saraswati in 1889 and the women’s rights advocate Shevantibai Nikambe in 1896. These were the only two Indian women, and the only racial minority, given full-length features on their front pages. By analyzing these interviews in the context of the New Woman in both colony and metropole, this article considers how Ramabai and Shevantibai used this journalistic opportunity to fashion modern, cosmopolitan identities for themselves while also subtly interrogating Anglocentric perceptions and stereotypes.
Research and Industry News
Authors: Cartlidge Edwin , Curtis Susan , Daukantas Patricia , Kim Meeri , Kirkland Alessia , Lanford Hannah , Sender Rachel
Published: February 2025

Ultra-thin laser / Two-photon vision / 3D surface profiles /
Structural-color display / Photonics boosts AI / Cat-eye vision / Industry
news
Unlocking Lightwave Electronics
Authors: Kira Mackillo , Huber Rupert
Published: February 2025

Combining optical and electronic systems could enable information processing that is a million times faster than existing gigahertz technology.
Compact and scalable mode (de)multiplexer using inverse-designed subwavelength gratings
Authors: Liu Yingjie , Wu Rui , Wang Yingjie , Qiao Xin , wei yong
Published: February 2025

A compact and scalable mode (de)multiplexer stands as a pivotal component in on-chip mode division multiplexing systems. Subwavelength gratings can flexibly adjust the waveguide refractive index at the subwavelength scale, while inverse design emerges as a promising methodology for optimizing extensive and intricate parameter sets. Here we propose and experimentally demonstrate a compact mode (de)multiplexer using inverse-designed subwavelength grating structures. The proposed six-channel mode (de)multiplexer is designed with an ultra-short coupling lengths (8.4-15 μm for TE1-TE5 channels) and eliminates the adiabatic transition tapers for cascaded asymmetric directional couplers. This design achieves a total length of only 76 μm. The experimental results reveal that the measured peak insertion losses for all mode channels are less than 0.77 dB, and the crosstalk are below -15 dB in a 100 nm waveband. Furthermore, it is very flexible to extend the dual-polarization mode (de)multiplexer. As a proof-of-concept, a dual-polarization mode (de)multiplexer for supporting eight channels (TE0-TE3 and TM0-TM3 modes) is also experimentally demonstrated. This work provides a promising way for on-chip large-scale and dense-integrated polarization and mode division multiplexing circuits.
Uncertainty-Aware Fourier Ptychography
Authors: Chen Ni , wu yang , Tan Chao , Cao Liangcai , Lam Edmund , Wang Jun
Published: February 2025

Fourier ptychography (FP) offers both wide field-of-view and high-resolution holographic imaging, making it valuable for applications ranging from microscopy, and X-ray imaging to remote sensing. However, its practical application is challenging due to the need for a precise numerical forward model that accurately matches real-world imaging systems. This mismatch sensitivity makes FP vulnerable to physical uncertainties, such as misalignment, optical element aberrations, low quality data, and etc. Conventional methods typically involve extensive manual calibration or digital correction of misalignment; reconstructing the pupil or probe to mitigate aberrations through alternative optimization strategies; or improving data quality by adjusting exposure time or using high dynamic range (HDR) techniques. However, none of these methods can simultaneously address all these issues. All of the uncertain factors interacts within the imaging systems, and neglecting any of them can degrade imaging performance or limit the system’s capabilities and applicability. In this work, we introduce an Uncertainty-Aware FP (UA-FP ) that addresses the issues of optical element aberrations, misalignment, and low-quality data simultaneously without relying on complex calibration. We achieve this by developing a differentiable forward imaging model of FP, and utilizing automatic differentiation to solve the inverse problem. Key system parameters, such as optical element aberrations and system misalignment, are treated as variables of differentiable functions. Additionally, we design the objective function with domain-specific priors to handle noisy data. This approach enables high imaging performance with low quality data under loose system alignment, while also allowing some system characteristics to be recovered. This not only facilitates system reconfigurability but also extends the system’s capability to function as a measurement tool and to operate under extreme conditions.
“We started to care for our colleagues”: A qualitative study of statements by physicians and nurses from a COVID-19 ICU of a public university hospital in the Southeast region of Brazil
Authors: Silva Felipe Santos da , Guerra Luciane Miranda , Serra Valladão Lucas , Casagrande Carla Fabiana , Cavalcante Jasmine de Matos , Ortolan Paula Elias , Romaioli Diego , Suedt Milena Rossi , Turato Egberto Ribeiro
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered countless intense emotional experiences. The challenges posed by the unpredictability of this macro-phenomenon led to a “mass illness”, with impacts on mental health, particularly among healthcare providers, who worked directly with hospitalized patients, tirelessly seeking their recovery. This study aimed to interpret the symbolic meanings of statements expressed by physicians and nurses of a COVID-19 intensive care unit to assess their care experiences. This was a humanistic study using the Clinical-Qualitative method (CQM). Data were interpreted using Clinical-Qualitative Content Analysis. Six interviews were performed, which produced the following categories: Category 1 –Psychic time and rudimentary symbolizations on personal experience during the pandemic; Category 2 –Denial as a psychological defense or a psychosocial adaptation mechanism? Category 3 –Tension and family support: triggers of ambivalent experiences; and 4: The feeling of insecurity: from technique to affective dimension. Our findings indicate rudimentary symbolization of experiences in an intense context such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The interviewees presented discursive speech, with poor symbolic expression, as the process for psychic and cultural representation requires time, unlike the chronology of facts that respects the order in which they happen.
A Study on the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Parent Tic Questionnaire
Authors: Ding Qiang , Woods Douglas W. , Barber Kathryn E. , Xu Wen , Zhao Ying , Shen Shuqin , Sun Jinhua
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The Parent Tic Questionnaire (PTQ) is a tool for parents to assess their child’s tic severity, but its effectiveness in non-Western contexts like China has not been thoroughly examined. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PTQ in assessing motor and vocal tic severity among Chinese children diagnosed with tic disorders.

Method

Parents of 268 Chinese children and adolescents aged 6–17 years, diagnosed with tic disorders, completed the PTQ. The study assessed tic severity using the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) and PTQ. Additionally, obsessive-compulsive symptoms were measured using the Children Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS), and other behavioral problems were evaluated using the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale (CPRS-48).

Results

The PTQ showed acceptable to good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.67 for motor, 0.77 for vocal, and 0.79 for total tic scores) and acceptable to good two-week test-retest reliability (intraclass correlations, ICC = 0.74 for motor, 0.81 for vocal, and 0.79 for total tic scores). It demonstrated good convergent validity with the YGTSS and effective discriminant validity from obsessive-compulsive and internalizing symptoms (i.e., anxiety and psychosomatic). Furthermore, our analysis revealed significant variability in item difficulty across the questionnaire, indicating differences in how various tics are perceived and reported by Chinese parents, which may influence the assessment’s accuracy and reliability.

Discussion

The findings indicate that the Chinese version of the PTQ is a reliable and valid tool for assessing tic severity in Chinese children with tic disorders, offering significant implications for clinical assessment in diverse cultural contexts. Additionally, our findings on item difficulty highlight the need for further cultural adaptations of the PTQ.
Effects of trauma-related amputations in children on caregivers: An exploratory descriptive study in a developing country
Authors: Barnie Patience Achiamaa , Dzomeku Veronica Millicent , Tetteh Abigail Aban , Barnie Bernard Asamoah , Mock Charles , Donkor Peter
Published: February 2025

Amputation in children is rare. However, in recent times, amputation in children has increased and trauma is the leading cause in Ghana. Few studies on the effects of amputation on caregivers particularly of children are available. This study aimed to explore the effects of trauma-related amputations in children on caregivers using qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with semi-structured interview guide. Ten (10) informal caregivers were purposively selected from the trauma registry of a tertiary facility in Ghana. Data were analyzed manually using the thematic approach described by Collaizi. The findings revealed that trauma-related amputations in children affect the work-role, social life, finances and mental health of the caregivers. Provision of counselling services to address the mental health needs of caregivers and decentralization of orthopaedic and rehabilitation services would lessen the burden of caregiving.
Quality of evidence in the oral health international data: Contributions for a global profile
Authors: Queiroz Marques dos Santos Sophia , Giuseppe Roncalli da Costa Oliveira Angelo
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The Oral Health Country/Area Profile Project (CAPP) is the largest global database on oral health, compiling information from 205 countries, including 193 members of the World Health Organization (WHO). Although this database is a source of information and provides an overview of global oral health, the extent to which it accurately reflects oral health in specific countries is uncertain.

Objective

To analyze the quality of evidence underlying the global oral health profile provided by CAPP.

Methods

The Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS) was adapted and used to assess data extracted from the methods section of included records. The results were then analyzed using the Item Response Theory (IRT) to establish the weightings of each dimension. The score was assessed in relation to variables of interest: age group, year of the record, and geographic region.

Results

The quality of oral health data showed polarization, with The quality of data from included documents varied according to age group analyzed, year of assessment, and geographic region. The Americas and Western Pacific regions demonstrated the highest quality of oral health data.

Conclusion

The global oral health profile depicted by CAPP may not accurately reflect reality. The process for including data in the database needs to be reviewed to ensure its reliability.
The portrayal of panic-buying and stockpiling in English newspapers during Covid, a mixed-method content analysis
Authors: Brackley Dayna , Wells Rebecca
Published: February 2025

Panic-buying and stockpiling during Covid disrupted the supply chain, causing food shortages and impacting the vulnerable. The government faced criticism for its lack of food system resilience, poor communications planning, and reliance on retailers. The British media frequently reported on panic-buying during early lockdown stages in 2020 and throughout Covid. The media play an important role in communicating information to the British public during times of crisis and influence public opinion. This mixed-method study examined English media portrayal of panic-buying, analysing text and visual data from six of the highest-circulating newspapers from March to July 2020. It reviewed reporting trends, use of imagery, themes, and prominent stakeholder voices. Content analysis of 209 articles showed that coverage was dominated by popular and left-wing press, with 89% of articles using sensationalised language and 68% coded as negative. In a subset of 125 articles, visual imagery showed empty shelves in 64% of analysed images, reinforcing the impression of food shortages. Supermarkets were the most quoted stakeholders, appearing in 62% of articles. Contradictions included reports of no food shortages alongside images of empty shelves and early newspaper advice encouraging stockpiling. Reporting peaked between March 16–22, 2020. Six key themes were identified: supermarket prominence, food supply/access, food policy, individual behaviour, socio-economic impacts, and panic-buying drivers—all themes had relevance to food system resilience. Future civil unrest linked to food-system challenges, potentially driven by climate change, conflict, or political instability, could see panic-buying play a significant role. Research on media portrayals of panic-buying can help policymakers enhance communication strategies and identify critical issues during crises. The Covid pandemic revealed crucial lessons about the media’s potential role in shaping public behaviour, highlighting the need for stronger government communication and collaboration with both the media and retailers to ensure consistent messaging, particularly to protect vulnerable groups.
Comparing statistical learning methods for complex trait prediction from gene expression
Authors: Klimkowski Arango Noah , Morgante Fabio
Published: February 2025

Accurate prediction of complex traits is an important task in quantitative genetics. Genotypes have been used for trait prediction using a variety of methods such as mixed models, Bayesian methods, penalized regression methods, dimension reduction methods, and machine learning methods. Recent studies have shown that gene expression levels can produce higher prediction accuracy than genotypes. However, only a few prediction methods were tested in these studies. Thus, a comprehensive assessment of methods is needed to fully evaluate the potential of gene expression as a predictor of complex trait phenotypes. Here, we used data from the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel (DGRP) to compare the ability of several existing statistical learning methods to predict starvation resistance and startle response from gene expression in the two sexes separately. The methods considered differ in assumptions about the distribution of gene effects—ranging from models that assume that every gene affects the trait to more sparse models—and their ability to capture gene-gene interactions. We also used functional annotation (i.e., Gene Ontology (GO)) as a source of biological information to inform prediction models. The results show that differences in prediction accuracy exist. For example, methods performing variable selection achieved higher prediction accuracy for starvation resistance in females, while they generally had lower accuracy for startle response in both sexes. Incorporating GO annotations further improved prediction accuracy for a few GO terms of biological significance. Biological significance extended to the genes underlying highly predictive GO terms. Notably, the Insulin-like Receptor (InR) was prevalent across methods and sexes for starvation resistance. For startle response, crumbs (crb) and imaginal disc growth factor 2 (Idgf2) were found for females and males, respectively. Our results confirmed the potential of transcriptomic prediction and highlighted the importance of selecting appropriate methods and strategies in order to achieve accurate predictions.
Caesarean section delivery and its associated factors in Ghana: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Tilahun Werkneh Melkie , Simegn Mulat Belay , Abate Alegntaw , Golla Eyasu Bamlaku , Ali Mohammed Ahmed , Kumbi Hawi , Wondie Smegnew Gichew , Geremew Habtamu
Published: February 2025

Background

Even if the ideal rate for caesarean section (CS) is considered 10–15%, worldwide CS rates have been steadily increasing, without significant additional benefit to women’s health. Its overuse was associated with maternal and fetal complications. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the rate of CS delivery and associated factors among women delivered in health facilities in Ghana.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using the 2022 DHS datasets from Ghana. A total of 5231 weighted samples were included. STATA.16 was used for analysis. A multilevel logistic regression was applied. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% CI and a p-value <  0.05 was used to declare significantly associated factors.

Result

The prevalence of CS in Ghana was 20.29% [95% CI = 19.23–21.41%]. Age 25-34 [AOR = 1.32, CI: 1.04, 1.68] and 35 + [AOR = 1.57, CI: 1.16, 2.11], primary [AOR = 1.58, CI: 1.21, 2.07], secondary [AOR = 1.36, CI: 1.07, 1.73], and higher [AOR = 2.24, CI: 1.58, 3.17] education, richer [AOR = 1.45, CI: 1.06, 1.99] and richest [AOR = 2.35, CI: 1.63, 3.39] wealth index, employment [AOR = 0.77, CI: 0.64, 0.92], primiparous [AOR = 1.33, CI: 1.07, 1.67], giving first birth after the age of 35 [AOR = 4.58, CI: 1.88, 11.19], multiple pregnancy [AOR = 5.53, CI: 4.02, 7.62], large birth size [AOR = 1.25, CI: 1.06, 1.48], 4–6 kg birth weight [AOR = 2.13, CI: 1.55, 2.92], as well as residing in Volta [AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.22, 3.22] and Bono East [AOR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.28, 3.19] regions were significant factors associated with CS delivery in Ghana.

Conclusion

The rate of CS was higher than previous studies in Ghana and the WHO recommended level, making it a public health concern. Age, education, wealth, employment, parity, age at first birth, pregnancy type, birth size, birth weight, and region were significantly associated with CS. Therefore, strategies aimed at examining guidelines for proper indications and uses of CS may lead to an improvement CS rate.
WISIT vaccines based on IL-31-derived peptides as a novel therapeutic approach for chronic pruritic dermatoses
Authors: Schmidhuber Sabine , Dickie James , Cserepes Mihály , Tóvári József , Schneeberger Achim , Mandler Markus
Published: February 2025

Vaccines are a promising therapy for the treatment of chronic conditions such as pruritus. IL-31 has been identified as an important mediator of itch. By targeting IL-31 signaling with immunotherapy, CP can be effectively alleviated. However, self-antigens such as IL-31 are highly tolerated, which has rendered conventional conjugate vaccines (CCVs) ineffective at generating sufficient antibody (Ab) responses to alleviate CP. Novel Win the Skin Immune System Trick (WISIT) vaccines however have been shown to induce substantially stronger Ab responses than CCVs in Parkinson’s Disease, and so may be capable of overcoming IL-31 tolerance to effectively treat CP. In this report, WISIT vaccines presenting ten different IL-31-specific peptides were compared to CCVs presenting the same peptides. Multiple response parameters were assessed, including Ab titers induced, avidity of these Abs, and IL-31 signaling inhibition. Results demonstrated that WISIT vaccines outperform CCVs across all investigated metrics, culminating in the identification of 3 promising candidate WISIT vaccines to be taken forward for further clinical development. This report thus provides evidence that the improved immunogenicity of WISIT vaccines is not disease-specific and that WISIT vaccines may also be translated to treat dermatological disorders. Further preclinical development will be necessary to prepare the identified IL-31 targeting WISIT vaccine candidates for clinical testing.
The impact of rural revitalization talent cultivation on farm household part-time farming: Evidence from the “One Village, One University Student” program
Authors: Wang Jiawei , Kuang Xia , Wang Zhipeng , Liao Wenmei , Qiu Hailan
Published: February 2025

The key to rural revitalization lies in talent revitalization. Cultivating a workforce that understands agriculture, loves rural areas, and cares for farmers, while retaining talent in rural regions, is of greater significance for comprehensively advancing rural revitalization. From the perspective of farm household part-time farming, this study takes the One Village, One University Student program as an example. Using survey data from 2552 farm households across 12 counties (cities and districts) in Jiangxi Province, China, and employing the ESR model, this study empirically analyzes the impact of rural revitalization talent cultivation on farm household part-time farming. It further explores the differentiated effects of various educational levels and learning modes of talent cultivation on the part-time farming. The results show that rural revitalization talent cultivation significantly reduces the degree of part-time farming, with higher-level education and correspondence education having particularly pronounced effects in enhancing agricultural skills and production efficiency. Based on these findings, this paper proposes policy recommendations to intensify rural revitalization talent cultivation, improve the educational levels and content, optimize educational modes, and strengthen the policy advocacy, aiming to further promote rural economic development and increase farmers’ income.
The influence of erotic camsites on improving men’s body comfort: A qualitative analysis of mechanisms
Authors: Gesselman Amanda N. , Kaufman Ellen M. , Campbell Jessica T. , Bennett-Brown Margaret , Osorio Melissa Blundell , Smith Camden , Piazza Malia , Moscovici Zoe
Published: February 2025

A significant portion of U.S. men experience body dissatisfaction, which can be harmful and limiting to their overall quality of life and well-being. Positive interactions, especially those occurring in the context of sexual behavior, have the potential to enhance men’s body self-perceptions. In this study, we explored the impact of engagement with erotic camsites on men’s comfort with their own bodies via web-based survey. A sample of 5,828 predominantly heterosexual, cisgender men recruited from LiveJasmin.com reported their demographics, camsite behaviors, and whether camsite use increased their body comfort. Our findings revealed that 19% of participants (n =  1,088) reported increased body comfort. We thematically coded qualitative responses to identify mechanisms for increased comfort. Key mechanisms included receiving positive feedback from models (i.e., performers), engaging in self-exposure on video, discussing body and sexual preferences with models, and experiencing perspective shifts. These results provide preliminary evidence that camsites are interactive environments in which feedback and self-expression might positively influence body comfort. While these findings suggest potential benefits, they also raise questions about the broader implications of such digital interactions for body image, highlighting the need for further research to understand the complexities of these technologically-mediated spaces.
Understanding Fashion Scandals: Social Media, Identity, and Globalization, Annamari Vänskä and Olga Gurova (2024)
Authors: von Wachenfeldt Paula
Published: February 2025

Review of: Understanding Fashion Scandals: Social Media, Identity, and Globalization, Annamari Vänskä and Olga Gurova (2024)

London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 235 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-35024-896-0, h/bk, £15.11