bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes distress and associated psychosocial factors in type 2 diabetes. A population-based cross-sectional study. The HUNT study, Norway
Authors: Riise Hilde K.R. , Haugstvedt Anne , Igland Jannicke , Graue Marit , Søfteland Eirik , Hermann Monica , Carlsson Sofia , Skinner Timothy C. , Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Iversen Marjolein M.
Published: February 2025

Background and aim

The world-wide prevalence of diabetes distress varies, and studies are mainly undertaken in clinical settings. By using data from the Trøndelag Health (HUNT) study, we aimed to estimate diabetes distress prevalence, its determinants, and associations with anxiety and depression among adults with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

This population-based cross-sectional study consists of individuals ≥ 20 years with type 2 diabetes participating in the HUNT4 survey (2017–2019). Diabetes-distress prevalence with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated based on the five item Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID-5) questionnaire. PAID-5 sum scores were rescaled to a 0-100 scale by multiplying the sum score by five. Linear and logistic regression models were used to examine associations of demographic, lifestyle- and clinical factors, with diabetes distress.

Results

In total, 1954 individuals completed the PAID-5 questionnaire, with a mean score of 15.2 (SD 18.3) and 11.9% (95% CI 10.6–13.4) reporting high diabetes distress (PAID-5 ≥ 40). Multivariable linear regression showed that diabetes distress was associated with a 0.2 (95% CI 0.2–0.3) lower score for each year older age, 7.6 (95% CI 5.4–9.7) higher score for current insulin use, and 9.3 (95% CI 5.3–13.2) higher score for a history of diabetes foot ulcers. High levels of anxiety and depression symptoms were associated with higher diabetes distress (Anxiety: B 16.0, 95% CI 13.6–18.4, Depression: B 13.3, 95% CI 10.7–16.0).

Conclusions

Diabetes distress is common and strongly associated with younger age at diabetes onset, insulin use, foot ulcer, and anxiety and depression symptoms. Identifying and addressing diabetes distress in diabetes follow-up may facilitate improving health outcomes and prevent more serious mental health issues in individuals with T2D. Nevertheless, the findings should be further examined in longitudinal studies.
Own-gender bias in facial feature recognition yields sex differences in holistic face processing
Authors: Hausinger Tobias , Probst Björn , Hawelka Stefan , Pletzer Belinda
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Female observers in their luteal cycle phase exhibit a bias towards a detail-oriented rather than global visuospatial processing style that is well-documented across cognitive domains such as pattern recognition, navigation, and object location memory. Holistic face processing involves an integration of global patterns and local parts into a cohesive percept and might thus be susceptible to the influence of sex and cycle-related processing styles. This study aims to investigate potential sex differences in the part-whole effect as a measure a of holistic face processing and explores possible relationships with sex hormone levels.

Methods

147 participants (74 male, 51 luteal, 22 non-luteal) performed a part-whole face recognition task while being controlled for cycle phase and sex hormone status. Eye tracking was used for fixation control and recording of fixation patterns.

Results

We found significant sex differences in the part-whole effect between male and luteal phase female participants. In particular, this sex difference was based on luteal phase participants exhibiting higher face part recognition accuracy than male participants. This advantage was exclusively observed for stimulus faces of women. Exploratory analyses further suggest a similar advantage of luteal compared to non-luteal participants, but no significant difference between non-luteal and male participants. Furthermore, testosterone emerged as a possible mediator for the observed sex differences.

Conclusion

Our results suggest a possible modulation of face encoding and/or recognition by sex and hormone status. Moreover, the established own-gender bias in face recognition, that is, female advantage in recognition of faces of the same gender might be based on more accurate representations of face-parts.
KAT8 catalyzes the acetylation of SEPP1 at lysine 247/249 and modulates the activity of CD8+ T cells via LRP8 to promote anti-tumor immunity in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Zhu Zhongfei , Nie Gang , Peng Xiaobo , Zhan Xianbao , Ding Dan
Published: February 2025

Background

Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains one of the most lethal malignancies with unfavorable prognosis globally. Bioinformatics analysis predicted that SEPP1 was low expressed in PC and related to tumor immune microenvironment, but its biological function was still unclear.

Methods

PC xenograft and liver metastasis mouse models, as well as PC cell-MDSCs co-culture system, were established for in vivo and in vitro studies, respectively. The expression and localization of key molecules were detected by qRT-PCR, western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Flow cytometry was employed to assess the abundance of immune cells and cell apoptosis. The interactions among KAT8, SEPP1 and LRP8 were detected by co-IP. Cell viability, migration and invasion were monitored by CCK-8 and transwell assays.

Results

SEPP1 was downregulated in pancreatic tumors, and it was positively correlated with the abundance of CD8+ T cells. In vivo overexpression of SEPP1 impaired PC tumor growth and liver metastasis via modulating the abundance of CD8+ T cell and MDSCs. KAT8 upregulated SEPP1 transcription and protein level via catalyzing the acetylation at K247/249 on SEPP1, and SEPP1 impaired MDSCs survival via its receptor LRP8, thus regulating CD8+ T cell-mediated immune responses in PC. In vivo studies further revealed that SEPP1 recombinant protein enhanced the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy in PC xenograft mouse model.

Conclusion

KAT8 catalyzed the acetylation of SEPP1 at K247/249 and modulated the activity of CD8+ T cells via LRP8 to promote anti-tumor immunity in PC.
The role of environmental attitudes and consumption patterns in consumers’ preferences for sustainable food from circular farming system: a six EU case studies
Authors: Ornelas Herrera Selene Ivette , Baba Yasmina , Kallas Zein , Meers Erik , Michels Evi , Hajdu Zoltán , Spicnagel Ana Marija
Published: February 2025

Decisions about what we consume have environmental repercussions and, therefore, implications for future generations. Consumers’ ability to pay more for sustainable food stimulates production strategies, like circular agriculture, aiding the European Green Deal’s sustainable food system. With the aim of analysing the preferences and willingness to pay of European consumers for food labelled as obtained by more sustainable systems in terms of reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and the optimisation of soil nutrients, a survey with 5591 participants from Spain, Poland, Italy, Hungary, Croatia, and Belgium was conducted. The survey was designed to analyse three food products (pork meat, milk, and bread) obtained through different production systems (circular, conventional, and organic) using the discrete choice experiment methodology. The survey included questions about consumers’ environmental attitudes and consumption behaviour, to identify their influence over preferences regarding sustainable food products. Results revealed that over 27% of consumers preferred circular food, unveiling a potential market. This preference highlighted the effect of consumers’ environmental attitudes. Those who actively engaged in recycling were more prone to choose circular food and shown a tendency to go for less conventional options. Consumers’ WTP was consistently higher for circular milk compared to conventional across all the studied countries. However, for circular pork and bread, this greater WTP was reported exclusively in Spain and Croatia. It was suggested that sectors involved in a sustainable food production should standardise labels for circular food, create educational programmes about problems generated by unsustainable consumption, and promote consumption of circular products.
Workload perception in educational resource recommendation supported by artificial intelligence: a controlled experiment with teachers
Authors: Machado Alexandre , Tenório Kamilla , Santos Mateus Monteiro , Barros Aristoteles Peixoto , Rodrigues Luiz , Mello Rafael Ferreira , Paiva Ranilson , Dermeval Diego
Published: February 2025

Researchers are increasingly interested in enabling teachers to monitor and adapt gamification design in the context of intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs). These contributions rely on teachers’ needs and preferences to adjust the gamification design according to student performance. This work extends previous studies on teachers’ perception of their cognitive effort and dedication to creating and monitoring educational resource recommendations on a simulated gamified educational platform. This study compares teachers’ perceptions of workload using one of three scenarios— manual, automated, and semi-automated—to recommend educational resources through a randomized experiment. In this study, 151 participating teachers evaluated their perception of cognitive effort and time dedicated to creating recommendations for missions and monitoring students on the platform. The results indicate that the teachers’ perception that the automated scenario has a lower workload than the manual scenario significantly raises the hypotheses. Our results also suggest that teachers’ perception of the textbook scenario is different according to their level of knowledge about Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). For teachers with advanced ICT knowledge, the manual scenario is perceived as a scenario that indicates a more outstanding performance. According to the educational level of the teachers, the perception of mental demand for the automated scenario is significantly different. These significantly contribute to understanding teachers’ perceptions when using educational platforms in their classes.
Exploring the utility of N-acetylcysteine for loss of control eating: protocol of an open-label single-arm pilot study
Authors: Muthmainah Muthmainah , Sketriene Diana , Anversa Roberta G. , Harris Emily , Griffiths Scott , Gogos Andrea , Sumithran Priya , Brown Robyn M.
Published: February 2025

Background

A sense of loss of control over eating, such that eating occurs despite the intent not to, is common in people with obesity and eating disorders such as binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa. Currently, options for management of loss of control eating are limited. We recently determined that the pro-drug N-acetylcysteine (NAC) reduces compulsive-like eating in a rat model of diet-induced obesity. We will now conduct a single site, open-label pilot study to examine the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of NAC for loss of control eating in humans.

Methods

Thirty-six adult volunteers with loss of control eating will be enrolled. All participants will receive NAC at a dose of 1200 mg orally twice daily for 12 weeks. Eating behaviors and triggers will be assessed before and after the NAC treatment period using questionnaires (Eating Loss of Control Scale, Palatable Eating Motives Scale: Coping Subscale, Food Craving Inventory, Reward-Based Eating Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Emotional Eating Scale) and ecological momentary assessment (EMA). The primary outcomes of this feasibility study are recruitment rate, participant retention rate at week 12, and medication adherence. The secondary outcome is change in Eating Loss of Control Scale score from baseline to week 12. Exploratory data will be collected on the change in eating behaviors from baseline to week 12. Although EMA can provide real-time data on eating behaviors compared with retrospective questionnaires, it relies on repeated daily measurement for long periods which can affect participant’s adherence to study protocol. Therefore, this feasibility study will assess the performance of EMA versus retrospective questionnaires and will determine which approach suits the purposes of the research.

Discussion

The results of this study will inform the feasibility of a RCT of NAC for loss of control eating using EMA.

Trial registration

This study was prospectively registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry in June 2022 (ACTRN12622000902796).
Understanding the role of electrostatic force, van der Waals force, and osmotic pressure in retinal function and barrier integrity
Authors: Al-Shami Khayry , Shatnawi Jafar , Qasagsah Khaled , Almurabi Salman , Shatnawi Ghayda’ , Darawsheh Tasnim , Karaja Shahed
Published: February 2025

The retina’s intricate interplay of forces and structures, with a focus on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors, is essential for retinal health and function. Among these forces, electrostatic forces play a crucial role, working alongside van der Waals forces and oncotic pressure to maintain the retina’s attachment to the RPE and ensure the integrity of the blood-retina barrier (BRB). The composition of the interphotoreceptor matrix (IPM), influenced by molecules like Retbindin secreted by rod photoreceptors, further modulates these forces, affecting processes like visual pigment regeneration and metabolite exchange. In the context of retinal tissue engineering and new technologies for support and cells-based treatments, electrostatic forces are harnessed to optimize nutrient supply to transplanted RPE cells by reducing pore size in electrospun polymer membranes. Scaffold-based strategies for retinal repair also utilize electrostatic, hydrophobic, van der Waals, and hydrogen bonding forces to enhance cell adhesion and growth, mimicking the basement membrane. Understanding the complex dynamics of these forces in retinal-RPE interactions holds promise for innovative treatments for retinal disorders, emphasizing the intricate balance between electrostatic forces, van der Waals forces, oncotic pressure, and more. These insights open exciting avenues for research and therapeutic interventions in ophthalmology. Additionally, van der Waals forces are explored in the context of cell adhesion, and their potential role in retinal health is discussed, particularly in relation to melanin’s protective properties against blue light-induced damage. Tissue engineering approaches, both scaffold-free and scaffold-based, are discussed, highlighting the importance of physical surface treatments and adhesive forces in preserving engineered RPE tissue. Overall, this abstract provides a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted role of electrostatic and other forces in retinal biology and their implications for future research and clinical applications in ophthalmology.
Relationship between paternal smoking behaviour and birth outcomes based on a comic booklet intervention for preventing second-hand smoke exposure to non-smoking pregnant women in Indonesia: a follow-up randomised controlled trial
Authors: Inaoka Kimiko , Mamahit Citra Gabriella , Octawijaya Ishak Halim , Wariki Windy Mariane Virenia , Ota Erika
Published: February 2025

Background

Although the harmfulness of second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure to foetuses is well-established, literature reporting foetal outcomes in experimental studies is limited. This follow-up study on preventing SHS exposure among non-smoking Indonesian pregnant women at home was based on a randomised controlled trial involving the provision of comic booklets with stickers to couples. This trial examined differences in the birth outcomes of participating couples between the experimental and control groups, factors associated with paternal smoking behaviour, and association between birth outcomes and paternal-related outcomes.

Methods

In total, 197 neonates of 286 couples who participated in an original trial were included. This study compared birth outcomes between participating couples using a comic booklet with stickers to reduce SHS exposure at home during pregnancy as the intervention. Pearson Chi-square tests were conducted to investigate significant differences in neonate sexes between the experimental and control groups. Independent sample t-tests were used to check for significant differences in birth outcome data between the experimental and control groups. A multiple regression analysis was applied to test the correlation between paternal smoking behaviour and the birth outcomes.

Results

The gestational age in the experimental group was longer than the age in control group (mean difference = 0.373, Cohen’s d = 0.291, 95% CI [0.010–0.57], p-value = 0.048). Pregnant women’s avoidance of SHS strongly influenced paternal smoking behaviour in both the experimental group (b = 0.559, 95% CI [1.175–2.109], p-value < 0.001) and the control group (b = 0.429, 95% CI [0.675–1.567], p-value < 0.001). No associations were observed between birth and paternal behaviour outcomes.

Conclusions

The neonates’ gestational ages were greater in the experimental group than in the control group because of our intervention effect; pregnant women’s avoidance of SHS strongly influenced paternal smoking behaviour in both groups. Thus, the comic booklet intervention for smoking fathers with non-smoking pregnant partners helped reduce the risk of foetal developmental disorders. Couple-based interventions should be actively integrated into health worker strategies to effectively mitigate second-hand smoke exposure among pregnant women.

Trial registration This study was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry under the registration number UMIN000035423 (01/02/2019).
Asymptomatic malaria infections and associated risk factors in malaria-eliminating settings of Nong District, Savannakhet Province, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Bouwe Taofic , Nonaka Daisuke , Buchy Philippe , Hansana Parita , Khamlome Boualam , Chayvangmanh Vixayyang , Ahissou Noudéhouénou Credo Adelphe , Chindavongsa Keobouphaphone , Pongvongsa Tiengkham , Banouvong Virasack , Iwagami Moritoshi
Published: February 2025

Background

As the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is nearing malaria elimination, asymptomatic malaria infections remain a challenge to address. Control measures focusing on symptomatic persons do not effectively work for asymptomatic infections which often go undetected by conventional diagnostic tools. It is therefore crucial to understand the burden of asymptomatic malaria for tailored interventions to eliminate the disease. This study assessed the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria infections with associated risk factors in an endemic district of Savannakhet province.

Methods

In March 2024, a cross-sectional study was conducted in three villages of Nong District. Blood samples were collected from the fingertips of the participants for Plasmodium parasite identification using microscopy and Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP); those aged 13 years and above were also interviewed. Mann–Whitney U test and Fisher’s exact test were performed to compare the medians of different age and temperature groups and determine the association between predictor variables and outcome variables respectively.

Results

A total of 622 individuals participated in this survey; Plasmodium parasites were detected in 2.1% (13/622) of participants. The prevalence of asymptomatic malaria was 1.8% (11/622). Plasmodium vivax accounted for 15.4% (2/13) of all positive cases. The remaining species could not be identified. Farmers aged 15 years and above accounted for 81.8% of the asymptomatic infections. Ninety percent (90%) of the participants used bed nets in the village. Among interviewed participants, 23.6% reported not using mosquito bed nets in the forest; 21.3% of the participants who had been to the forest were nighttime forest workers.

Conclusions

This study revealed a prevalence of 1.8% of asymptomatic malaria infections in the study areas with the majority of the infections clustered among farmers, and an important proportion of these populations not using protective measures in the forest. These findings showed that malaria reservoirs are notable with a lack of use of protective measures, which could threaten malaria control and elimination efforts. Therefore, malaria elimination in Lao PDR by 2030 would need interventions targeting high-risk adult populations for screening with sensitive tools coupled with sensitization on protective measures and asymptomatic malaria.
Plant-derived molecules in monkeypox management: insight and alternative therapeutic strategies
Authors: Ndayambaje Martin , Munyeshyaka Emmanuel , Dieumerci Olive , Habyarimana Thierry , Ndishimye Pacifique , Naya Abdallah , Oudghiri Mounia
Published: February 2025

The WHO and CDC recently declared monkeypox virus (MPXV) a zoonotic disease known as monkeypox (Mpox) a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. According to the CDC, no treatment is specifically approved for Mpox infections. Medicinal plants are crucial in healthcare and economic development, particularly for low- and middle-income countries. This review offers valuable insights into the pathogenesis and the management of Mpox through therapeutic approaches and vaccination strategies using plant-based molecules. Core structural proteins necessary for both viral entry and the immune response, including A29, H3L, and L1R, are involved in the pathogenesis of MPXV. Potential targets for vaccines include proteins like A35R and B6R, which are essential to the propagation of viruses. The MPXV evades the immune system by concealing its DNA, suppressing the interferon response, limiting T and NK cell activation, and preventing apoptosis, complicating vaccine and treatment development. Antivirals (tecovirimat, brincidofovir) and vaccinations (JYNNEOS, ACAM2000) manage Mpox. A recent study revealed early clinical trial results, indicating that the antiviral drug tecovirimat, a well-known conventional treatment, is no more effective than a placebo against the clade I virus type Research gaps, low vaccination effectiveness, and availability are challenges. This review offers a novel perspective on combating the global threat of Mpox by investigating alternative management strategies centered on plant-derived compounds.

Graphical Abstract
Non-intrusive reduced basis approximation to the solution of Helmholtz equation: The magnetotellurics case
Authors: Quiaro Alejandro , Liu Dawei , Sacchi Mauricio D.
Published: February 2025

Electromagnetic wave propagation is commonly modelled using the Helmholtz partial differential equation, which plays a significant role in geophysical studies such as magnetotellurics forward modelling. While analytical solutions exist for layered media, most geophysical applications depend on numerical finite difference, finite element, or finite volume solvers. These traditional methods are computationally demanding, particularly for large-scale problems or workflows that require repeated evaluations, such as real-time or probabilistic inversions. Reduced basis techniques have been proposed to accelerate finite element solvers by reducing the stiffness matrix and nodal forces vector size. However, these methods rely on explicit access to the stiffness matrix, which can limit their applicability. This paper presents a non-intrusive, data-driven approach, adapted for the first time to magnetotellurics forward modelling, that eliminates the need for explicit stiffness matrix availability and is compatible with various numerical solvers. Using a predefined parameter domain, we construct a snapshot matrix from high-fidelity solutions generated for a subset of model parameters. Proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is then applied to extract a reduced basis, and a neural network is trained to map the model space to the reduced coefficient space. This enables rapid evaluation of the Helmholtz equation, achieving a speed-up of four orders of magnitude compared to traditional solvers, with average median errors of 9\% for the Transverse Magnetic mode and 2\% for the Transverse Electric mode. Further accuracy improvements are achieved by incorporating a minimal set of high-fidelity observations and leveraging the fast evaluation to regularize an inverse problem, reducing errors to 2\% for the Transverse Magnetic mode and 1.5\% for the Transverse Electric mode. These results highlight this approach's potential to dramatically decrease computational costs while maintaining accuracy, making it a flexible and scalable tool for efficient geophysical forward evaluations.
Μελέτη της κατάστασης μεθυλίωσης ογκοκατασταλτικών γονιδίων στο cell free DNA (cfDNA) ασθενών με πρώιμο και προχωρημένο καρκίνο παγκρέατος
Authors: Κουκάκη Τριανταφυλλιά
Published: February 2025

Ο καρκίνος του παγκρέατος αποτελεί ένα από τα κακοήθη νεοπλάσματα με την χειρότερη πρόγνωση επιβίωσης. Η πρόοδος ως προς τις θεραπευτικές επιλογές είναι αξιόλογη, ωστόσο η βελτίωση στο προσδόκιμο επιβίωσης είναι περιορισμένη. Η επιγενετική επιστήμη αποτελεί πλέον βασικό πυλώνα στην ογκογένεση.Τα τελευταία χρόνια έχουν πραγματοποιηθεί πολλές μελέτες συσχέτισης της επιγενετικής με την διάγνωση, την πρόγνωση και την πρόβλεψη της ανταπόκρισης σε χορηγούμενες θεραπείες σε πολλά νεοπλάσματα. Η παρούσα μελέτη διενεργήθηκε με σκοπό να συσχετίσει τον αντίκτυπο της μεθυλίωσης ογκοκατασταλτικών γονιδίων στην πρόγνωση και πρόβλεψη του καρκίνου του παγκρέατος. Μελετήθηκαν τέσσερα ογκοκατασταλτικά γονίδια, SOX17, RASS1A, BRCA1, BRCA2, ως προς την μεθυλίωση τους σε πλάσμα 105 ασθενών με καρκίνο παγκρέατος. Επίσης έγινε μελέτη και συσχέτιση της συγκέντρωσης του cell-freeDNAσε αυτούς τους ασθενείς και τη σχέση που παρουσιάζει με την επιβίωση των ασθενών. Επίσης συλλέχθηκαν και μελετήθηκαν δείγματα από 30 υγιείς μάρτυρες. Η διαδικασία εξαγωγής των αποτελεσμάτων πραγματοποιήθηκε στην Πανεπιστημιακή Ογκολογική Κλινική του Πανεπιστημιακού Γενικού Νοσοκομείου Αλεξανδρούπολης και στο Εργαστήριο Φαρμακολογίας του Τμήματος Ιατρικής του Δημοκρίτειου Πανεπιστημίου Θράκης. Τα δείγματα των ασθενών προήλθαν από πλάσμα ασθενών που παρακολουθούνταν στην Πανεπιστημιακή Ογκολογική Κλινική του ΠΓΝ Αλεξανδρούπολης και ο χρόνος της παρακολούθησης επιβίωσης ήταν 60 μήνες. Από την μελέτη προέκυψε ότι η μεθυλίωση των υποκινητών των γονιδίων RASSF1A, SOX17, BRCA1και BRCA2 είναι ένα συχνό φαινόμενο τόσο στον πρώιμο όσο και στον μεταστατικό καρκίνο του παγκρέατος. Η κατάσταση μεθυλίωσης για τα περισσότερα από αυτά τα γονίδια φαίνεται ότι σχετίζεται με την μέση ολική επιβίωση και επί μέρους με το διάστημα ελεύθερο νόσου (DFI) και το διάστημα χωρίς υποτροπή (PFS) για τους ασθενείς με πρώιμο και μεταστατικό καρκίνο του παγκρέατος αντίστοιχα. Παρομοίως η συγκέντρωση του cell-free DNA στο πλάσμα ασθενών με καρκίνο του παγκρέατος φαίνεται ότι επίσης συσχετίζεται με την ολική επιβίωση, το DFI και το PFS.
Case Report: Emergency endovascular management of a ruptured giant abdominal aortic aneurysm with severely angulated and conical shaped neck using novel multiple stiff wire technique
Authors: Taofan Taofan , Dakota Iwan , Adiarto Suko , Indriani Suci , Aurora Ruth Grace , Putra Rendra Mahardhika , Marsudi Bagas Adhimurda , Afandy Jonathan Edbert , Benly Melani Limenco , Paramastri Kanya , Lam Macmilliac , Iqbal Muhammad Rafli , Saputro Keviano Bobby , Kang Sung Gwon , Widyantoro Bambang
Published: February 2025

Background Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) is commonly fatal, with an overall mortality rate of nearly 90%, and the risk of subsequent rupture remains high, especially in large aneurysm diameters or progressive disease. Unfavorable neck anatomy in EVAR is linked to early graft failure and long-term complications. Recently, a novel multiple stiff wire (MSW) technique has been developed to overcome the challenges of hostile neck anatomy without introducing additional devices and procedural complexity. It has also been feasible in a series of elective cases. In this case, we report the first-ever utilization of the MSW technique in an emergency case of an acute contained rAAA with a conical-shaped, severely angulated neck who underwent Endovascular Aortic Repair (EVAR). Case presentation A 61-year-old man came with intermittent sharp stomach pain radiating to his back since three weeks ago. Physical examination showed elevated blood pressure and anemic conjunctiva. Laboratory examinations showed anemia, leukocytosis, elevated D-dimer level, high creatinine level, and low eGFR. CT-Scan Angiography (CTA) revealed severely hostile anatomy, a conical-shaped abdominal aorta aneurysm with a length of 13.2 cm and a maximum diameter of 9.3 cm with angulation of 90.1°. The patient was diagnosed with Ruptured AAA with a conical-shaped, severely angulated neck. Endovascular Aortic Repair (EVAR) management with MSW technique was planned for him. After four days, The patient was discharged in a clinically stable condition with optimal medical treatment and education. Conclusion The endovascular approach could be performed in emergency settings and has been proven to reduce length of stay, mortality, and morbidity rates. In this case, the endovascular approach with the MSW technique showed promising results for the patient.
Exploring Neurodiversity within Recovery Education and Lived Experience Recovery Based Settings: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Norton Michael John , Gallini-Poole William , Little Lydia , Zilberberg Olga
Published: February 2025

Introduction Neurodiversity is an umbrella term used to define variations in brain functioning which can impact on the way individuals think and process information compared to others [neurotypical] individuals. Neurodiversity is closely associated with mental ill health and as such, these individuals often use the same systems built primarily for a neurotypical population. However, the literature base examining neurodiversity and recovery education is unknown currently. As such, this paper lays out a proposal for a scoping review to establish the breadth of literature examining neurodiversity and its impact on recovery colleges. Methods This proposed review complies with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for scoping reviews and is further enhanced by Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework for scoping reviews. This approach consists of five stages. Search terms are stated and a variety of databases (CINAHL, Jstor, Ovid SP, psycINFO, psycARTICLES, PubMed, RCNi, Science Direct, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library) and repositories (Google Scholar, ResearchGate) will be used to gather citations based on a predetermined inclusion/exclusion criteria. The search range is from January 01st 1998 to present (31st December 2024). Ethics and dissemination The paper is a scoping review protocol exploring the breadth of literature into neurodiversity within recovery colleges. As such, no ethical approval is required. The protocol is stored within OSF registries and was uploaded on June 27th 2024 where it is freely available to anyone who wishes to gain access to it. The registry will be updated with the formally published protocol once this paper has been published. The proposed scoping review will be distributed through peer-reviewed publication in a high impact journal. In addition, elements of the proposed review will support the wider Neurodiversity in Recovery Education [N.I.R.E] study through various publications yet to be determined. Registration ID https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/853K2.
The genome sequence of the Small Fan-footed Wave moth, Idaea biselata (Hufnagel, 1767)
Authors: Sims Ian , Lees David C. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: February 2025

We present a genome assembly from an individual male specimen of Idaea biselata (Small Fan-footed Wave; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Geometridae). The genome sequence has a total length of 424.30 megabases. Most of the assembly (97.24%) is scaffolded into 13 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 17.33 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 11,310 protein-coding genes.
Speech therapy: a collection of tasks and exercises
Authors: Bukovcova Nina , Gordievskiy Anton , Gorsheneva Irina , Mihaylova Elena , Nesterova Tat'yana , Fedosova Oksana , Fedorova Marina , Homutskaya Ekaterina , Chaladze Elena
Published: February 2025

The textbook contains a selection of tasks and exercises in various sections of speech therapy. Solving the tasks will allow students to develop practical skills in analyzing the symptoms of various speech disorders, formulating speech therapy conclusions, selecting and justifying the directions and content of correctional work.
Meets the requirements of the latest generation of federal state educational standards for higher education.
For students of higher educational institutions studying in the field of training 03/44/03 "Special (defectological) education (profile "Speech therapy"), as well as speech therapists, speech pathologists, students of advanced training programs and teachers of educational organizations.
Cartas para Pepo. Intimidad, género y clase (Chile, siglo XX). Emociones y espacio en la vida del dibujante René Ríos Boettiger
Authors: Stern Westermeier Claudia
Published: February 2025

Desde la confluencia entre la historia social, la historia cultural y la historita urbana, Cartas para Pepo examina la vida cotidiana en relación con la genealogía del dibujante humorístico chileno René Ríos Boettiger (1911-2000), sus afectos, sensibilidades y emociones a partir de su colección epistolar, a través de la cual se establece una conexión con el carácter autobiográfico de su obra, su intersubjetividad y su agencia. Las epístolas dialogan con fotografías familiares, originales de Pepo y sus personajes, tiras cómicas, documentos y prensa, por medio de los cuales se construye una historia de la intimidad, enfocada en las relaciones de género, en intersección con la raigambre de clase y el espacio urbano que recorre la historia de Chile de la mano y pluma del dibujante en el transcurso del siglo xx.
The Legacy of John Little for Marketing Science
Authors: Feinberg Fred , Hauser John R. , Roberts John , Zhang Juanjuan
Published: February 2025

John D. C. Little revolutionized marketing science, and we honor his legacy by reaffirming his decision-calculus principles, reviewing his most impactful research, and conveying his vision for a future that integrates rigor and relevance.
PURPOSE-T: validity, reliability and implementation
Authors: Stephen-Haynes Jackie , Maries Monique
Published: February 2025

Pressure ulcer risk assessment is an essential part of pressure ulcer prevention. This article explores the Pressure Ulcer Risk Primary Or Secondary Evaluation Tool (PURPOSE-T), the use of which is advocated by the NHS England National Wound Care Strategy Programme. The article aims to increase awareness of the PURPOSE-T risk assessment tool and address the need, expressed by Wound Care Alliance UK members, for an overview of it. Consideration is given to reliability and validity. Further testing of the tool is needed in some healthcare settings. A recommendation is made regarding its implementation, which should be fully supported by guidance, resources and inform the development of an appropriate, patient-focused individualised care plan, wherever possible agreed with the patient.
Clinical reasoning and decision making within the role of a palliative care advanced clinical practitioner
Authors: Jacobs Daisy
Published: February 2025

Advanced clinical practice invites curiosity, rationalising the reasoning behind clinical symptoms. Developing one's own style of critical thinking is a journey that is influenced by a variety of factors including stress, risk, time and knowledge. There has been significant scrutiny in practice around making a clinical judgement when a person is entering the terminal phases of life, yet little clarity exists for clinicians regarding what information is required to make this decision. Within the role of advanced clinical practitioner (ACP) in palliative care there is an expectation to offer guidance and support to persons and families as well as junior nursing and medical staff of the changing phases of a person's illness. There is ‘one chance to get it right’, yet predicting death and dying remains predictably unpredictable.
Interprofessional collaboration in acute care settings: qualitative research among nurses and radiographers
Authors: Bonacaro Antonio , Risoli Camilla , Bof Federica , Carcaterra Yasmine , Cuzzi Claudia , Danieli Chiara , Guasconi Massimo , Artioli Giovanna
Published: February 2025

Background:

Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) not only benefits the multiprofessional team, but also has the potential to improve patient outcomes. Understanding the roles of health professional colleagues can lay a strong foundation for IPC, particularly in settings where timely procedures are crucial.

Aims.

This study aimed to analyse perceptions of IPC among nurses and radiographers working in acute care settings.

Methods:

A descriptive qualitative study involving online focus groups of nurses and radiographers working in acute care. The data collected were analysed through thematic analysis.

Findings:

Four dimensions emerged from the analysis – organisational dimension, cognitive dimension, individual dimension and relational. Each represented a well-defined area and could be divided further into subthemes.

Conclusion:

The four dimensions influence IPC among nurses and radiographers in acute care. Improving the factors identified and implementing changes can have a positive impact on patients' quality of care.
The professional nurse advocate model and use of A-EQUIP: a tool to support the nursing workforce
Authors: Morrell-Scott Nicola , Robinson Natalie
Published: February 2025

This article explores the role of the professional nurse advocate (PNA) in supporting the nursing workforce through restorative clinical supervision. It outlines the theoretical framework of the A-EQUIP model, which emphasises advocacy, education, quality improvement, and understanding. Initially introduced in midwifery, the PNA role has been expanded to all nursing areas to address issues such as burnout and workforce challenges, particularly those intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. PNAs provide a safe space for nurses to reflect on their practice, support their wellbeing, and lead quality improvement initiatives. The role is crucial for fostering a positive work environment, enhancing nurse retention, and improving patient care. The training and skills required by PNAs are discussed, along with the benefits and challenges of implementing this role, and its broader impact on the healthcare workforce.
Managing wound exudate with the superabsorbent dressing C-Sorb
Authors: Collier Mark , Hampton Sylvie
Published: February 2025

Excess exudate is a major symptom of hard-to-heal wounds. It can delay wound healing and cause embarrassment and psychological distress for patients, as well as increase the number of dressing changes and thus nursing time and product costs. Exudate can be effectively managed with appropriate wound dressings, as part of a structured and holistic approach to wound assessment and care, involving treatment of the underlying aetiology. Superabsorbents are advanced, multi-layered dressings designed to absorb and retain large amounts of exudate, bacteria and matrix metalloproteinases. Different superabsorbents vary in composition and effectiveness. C-Sorb (Richardson Healthcare) is a range of superabsorbents designed to be clinically successful and cost-effective at managing moderate-to-high exudate in several types of wound. Five case studies demonstrate the positive impact of C-Sorb on exudate management and wound healing.
Critical work to grow the nursing workforce
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: February 2025

Sam Foster, Executive Director of Professional Practice, Nursing and Midwifery Council, considers the latest phase of the NMC's review of nurse education that includes bolstering practice learning and quality assurance
Unstable foundations: the complaint system and the duty of candour
Authors: Tingle John
Published: February 2025

John Tingle, Associate Professor, Birmingham Law School, University of Birmingham, discusses some recent reports on the NHS complaints system and the statutory duty of candour
A modified systematic review of the impact of cultural beliefs on the acceptability and accessibility of adult palliative care in Tanzania
Authors: Breese Amelia , Clark Maria , Halliday Lesley
Published: February 2025

Background:

Palliative care (PC) is recognised by the United Nations as a crucial element of universal health coverage. This article explores the cultural beliefs around the acceptability and accessibility of PC in Tanzania, East Africa.

Aim:

To provide insight into barriers for the provision of culturally safe PC in this region.

Method:

Qualitative studies researching adult perspectives on PC in Tanzania between 2010 and 2022 were critically appraised.

Findings:

Of 153 studies identified in the initial search, seven met the inclusion criteria. Four key themes were identified: acceptability of PC for recipients; acceptability of PC for providers; accessibility of PC for recipients and accessibility of PC for providers.

Conclusion:

Cultural beliefs around the acceptability of PC included shared values for individuals at the end of life and challenges around breaking bad news. Barriers to the accessibility of PC included training opportunities and opioid availability. Further research prioritising ‘cultural safety’ is necessary to improve PC provision in Tanzania.
Assessment of nurses' approaches to palliative and end-of-life care in the intensive care and high-dependency unit
Authors: Tzenalis Anastasios , Maria Vasdeki , Kipourgos George , Gkotsi Angelikh , Eleni Albani
Published: February 2025

Background:

Palliative care provision is a serious challenge for nursing staff as it involves end-of-life care decisions, as well as a very close relationship with the grief and pain of the patient and their relatives. Their beliefs and attitudes regarding palliative care affect the quality of care, and can potentially influence whether a nurse experiences burnout in their career.

Aims:

To investigate the attitudes and beliefs of nursing staff about palliative care and correlation with various demographic factors.

Methods:

The study used a cross-sectional design and included nurses and nursing assistants who worked at Intensive Care Units and High Dependency Units. The authors assessed the attitudes on palliative care using the Frommelt Attitudes Toward Care of the Dying Scale (FATCOD) scale.

Findings:

A total of 150 nurses/nursing assistants. Their satisfaction with care and the months since the patient's initial diagnosis were positively associated with a more positive quality of life. Participants' beliefs about end-of-life care are positively and sometimes negatively influenced by demographic factors, such as their gender and previous work experience.

Conclusion:

The findings of the study may prove valuable in understanding the challenges faced by nurses caring for patients in the final stretch of the patient's life and may be the starting basis for initiating educational programmes on palliative care.
Development of dysphagia screening questionnaire for Thai older adults
Authors:   Occupational Therapy Division, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand., Thongchoomsin Surachart , Baramee Phichaya ,   Occupational Therapy Division, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand., Siangchin Supatida Sorasak ,   Occupational Therapy Division, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand.
Published: February 2025

Background: Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a common condition in the older person and can lead to serious complications. In Thailand, there is currently no standardized dysphagia screening tool for gathering preliminary information about clients for early evaluation and intervention.

Objective: This study aimed to develop a dysphagia risk screening tool for older persons and investigate its psychometric properties. This study examined the content validity, criterion validity, and test-retest of the Geriatric Dysphagia Risk Screening Tool (GDRST).

Materials and methods: 26 questions were developed from literature review and expert opinion. Five expert occupational therapists examined content validity. The Index of Congruence (IOC) was calculated from five experts, and the items that showed IOC scores of over 0.5 were incorporated into the target screening tool. Thirty older adults who had a risk of dysphagia (Mean±SD, 66.13±4.66 years) participated in the study. The internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to examine the test-retest reliability of the screening tool. The criterion validity of the GDRST was evaluated by investigating the relationships between a score of the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) and the Swallowing Quality Assessment Form for Occupational Therapists (SQAOT) using Spearman’s correlation coefficients.

Results: Based on the literature review and occupational therapy expert opinions, the screening tool covers three domains, including the cognition domain, oral phase swallowing ability domain, and pharyngeal phase swallowing ability domain. Content validity IOC scores were between 0.6 and 1.0 for all items. The internal consistency of the GDRST was high, with 0.971 Cronbach’s alpha for the test. The screening tool had excellent test-retest reliability on all items (p<0.05). The score of the GDRST was significantly correlated with the score of FOIS (r=-0.468, p=0.009), and SQAOT (r=-0.705, p=0.000).

Conclusion: The GDRST demonstrated excellent reliability and validity against the clinical assessment. It was simple to administer and could be beneficial for screening older people in the community for dysphagia.
REPRESIÓN Y RECEPCIÓN LITERARIA DE CARLO CASSOLA EN LA ESPAÑA FRANQUISTA
Authors: Datteroni Silvia
Published: February 2025

En España, durante el franquismo, la vigilancia rigurosa intentada - y conseguida - por la Oficina de Orientación Bibliográfica fue para el régimen un recurso necesario para asegurarse un control apretado sobre la conciencia nacional. El presente artículo pretende arrojar luz sobre las complejas operaciones editoriales que determinaron la recepción española de la obra del escritor Carlo Cassola, reconstruidas gracias al hallazgo de documentos de archivo inéditos que informan sobre el esfuerzo y la incansable labor de algunos editores españoles a la hora de lidiar con una censura tendenciosa y arbitraria.