bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plasma n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Levels and Colorectal Cancer Risk in the UK Biobank: Evidence of Nonlinearity, as Well as Tumor Site- and Sex-Specificity
Authors: Aldoori Joanna , Zulyniak Michael A. , Toogood Giles J. , Hull Mark A. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
The relationship between omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) intake and colorectal cancer risk is unclear. Blood n-3 PUFA concentration is a biomarker of dietary n-3 PUFA intake. We examined the relationship between plasma n-3 PUFA concentrations and colorectal cancer risk in UK Biobank (UKBB) participants.

Methods:
We analyzed the relationship between tertiles (T) of plasma total n-3 PUFAs and n-3 PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels, and overall colorectal cancer (also stratified by tumor location and sex) risk. Cox proportional hazards regression models were adjusted for clinical covariates. Nonlinearity was tested by restricted cubic splines.

Results:
There were 2,602 incident colorectal cancer cases in 234,598 UKBB participants with baseline plasma fatty acid data (mean follow-up 13.4 years). There was an inverse association between the plasma total n-3 PUFA level [T2 HR = 0.88 (95% confidence interval, 0.80–0.97) compared with the T1 reference; T3 = 0.91 (0.83–1.00)], as well as the plasma DHA concentration [T2 = 0.89 (0.80–0.98); T3 = 0.91 (0.82–1.00)], and colorectal cancer risk. The relationship was nonlinear [P for nonlinearity = 0.14 (total n-3 PUFAs) and 0.008 (DHA)], with a plateau effect at the highest n-3 PUFA concentrations. The relationship was more pronounced for proximal colon cancer [T2 = 0.82 (0.69–0.97); T3 = 0.76 (0.64–0.90) for DHA] and was evident for males [T2 = 0.84 (0.74–0.95); T3 = 0.89 (0.78–1.00)], but not for females.

Conclusions:
Higher plasma n-3 PUFAs are associated with reduced colorectal cancer risk in the UKBB.

Impact:
Nonlinearity, as well as tumor site and sex specificities, of the inverse relationship between plasma n-3 PUFA levels and colorectal cancer risk, if confirmed in other diverse populations, has significant implications for nutritional prevention guidelines.
Combination of Bremachlorin PDT and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Anti–PD-1 Shows Response in Murine Immunological T-cell–High and T-cell–Low PDAC Models
Authors: McMorrow Roisin , de Bruijn Henriette S. , Farina Stefania , van Ardenne Ruben J.L. , Que Ivo , Mastroberardino Pier G. , Robinson Dominic J. , Mezzanotte Laura , Löwik Clemens W.G.M. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most challenging types of cancer with little or no response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been shown to ablate tumors and induce an immune response. In our study, we investigated the effect of PDT using the photosensitizer Bremachlorin, in its ability to reduce tumor burden and immunologically sensitize T-cell–high and T-cell–low murine PDAC tumors to the ICIs that blocks PD-1 immune checkpoint. In addition, we monitored the effect on survival and investigated if there was a response in PDT-treated and non–PDT-treated distant tumors. Our results showed that Bremachlorin PDT induces direct tumor killing that increased survival in both “hot” T-cell–high and “cold” T-cell–low PDAC tumors and that it can make T-cell–high tumors more sensitive to ICIs blocking PD-1. We found that T-cell–high tumor-bearing mice had an overall greater response to therapy than did T-cell–low tumor-bearing mice. One mouse with T-cell–high tumors exhibited complete tumor regression in both the treated and nontreated distant tumor 90 days after treatment. These results indicate that combining ICIs with Bremachlorin PDT could be a promising therapeutic intervention for enhancing PDAC’s response to therapy.
TeleAbsence: A Vision of Past and Afterlife
Telepresence
Authors: Ishii Hiroshi , Pillis Daniel , Pataranutaporn Pat , Xiao Xiao , Noh Hayoun , Li Lucy , Algargoosh Alaa , Labrune Jean-Baptiste 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This paper presents our vision of TeleAbsence, extending the concept of telepresence to the past and the afterlife to address the vast emotional and temporal distance caused by the memory of loved ones who drifted apart and faded away. Instead of explicit and literal representations of loved ones, TeleAbsence describes poetic encounters with digital and physical traces left by the absence of others. TeleAbsence fosters illusory communications to conjure the feeling of being there with those no longer with us without using synthetic or generative representations and utterances. Our vision is deeply inspired by the Portuguese concept “Saudade”—the “desire for the beloved thing, people, place, and moment, made painful by its absence.” We present our vision through five design principles: presence of absence, illusory communication, the materiality of memory, traces of reflection, and remote time, grounded in historical and cultural contexts. We present exploratory narratives to illustrate these principles and the concept of ambient co-presence using poetry, phone, piano, and pen as mediums. We discuss challenges and opportunities for future work, including representational strategies to depict lost loved ones, ethical issues, and the possible extension of TeleAbsence to historical public figures.
Economy as Religion
Authors: Strijdom Johan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Engaging David Chidester’s argument that takes up ideas from Marx and Benjamin, the article argues that the academic study of religion can make a contribution to understand the economy by conceptualising it as functioning like a religion. This is achieved by using theorised concepts of myth (sacred stories), rituals and institutions that serve not only to unite adherents, but also to establish, maintain or challenge power relations. The thesis is tentatively illustrated with reference to the Chinese economy that needs to be compared with other economic systems that function like a religion.
Kabbala Denudata and Christian Knorr von Rosenroth’s Approach to the Zohar
Authors: Rivera Lusdemar Jacquez 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This paper outlines the role of Kabbala denudata as a work produced conjointly with the 1684 Sulzbach edition of the Zohar and assesses how its compilation contributed to Christian Knorr von Rosenroth’s understanding of the Zohar as a Christological text. In so doing, it presents a history of the work and elaborates on Knorr von Rosenroth’s depiction of the Zohar as a methodological tool.
‘What does “remaining living at home” really mean?’ Stakeholders’ perspectives on everyday difficulties among older people with chronic conditions
Authors: Ballmer Thomas , Gantschnig Brigitte Elisabeth 
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Older people with chronic conditions prioritize living arrangements that let them maintain their autonomy. However, many face activity limitations and participation restrictions. Stakeholders involved in their health and social care have a unique perspective on these challenges. The aim of this study was to examine how these stakeholders view the difficulties older people with chronic conditions living at home face in their everyday lives. Method: We conducted a qualitative descriptive study based on a focus group interview with eight stakeholders involved in health care, social care and housing for older people with chronic conditions. We transcribed the interview verbatim and analysed it using thematic analysis. Findings: We generated four themes: fear of losing autonomy, inequality along socio-economic lines, persisting and new barriers, and ‘what does “remaining living at home” really mean?’. Participants problematized the lack of awareness among key stakeholders for older people’s needs and limited housing options beyond the dichotomous choice between ageing at home and in a care home. Conclusion: Acknowledging diverse factors – fear of losing autonomy, socio-economic situation, limited awareness of key stakeholders, physical and other barriers, societal discourses – shaping older peoples’ choices regarding their living arrangements informs how occupational therapists can support them.
Cervical Cancer Screening Utilization and Barriers to Uptake in Ethiopia: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Mohammed Ebrahim , Taye Girma , Assefa Mathewos , Aman Haji , Addissie Adamu , Jemal Ahmedin 
Published: December 2024

Background Cervical cancer (CCa) is the second most common type of cancer and a leading cause of death among adult women in Ethiopia. However, at the moment, there is a lack of evidence that can be generalizable as a whole to the country regarding the uptake of cervical cancer screening. Objective The aim of this review was to assess the pooled estimated uptake of CCa and to identify the major barriers to cervical cancer screening (CCS) uptake among adult women in Ethiopia. Method The review protocol was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with a registration number of CRD42022353954. The data were searched electronically using Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science search engines. The heterogeneity of the literature was assessed using Cochran’s (Q) test and Higgin’s and Thomson’s (I2) statistic. The Rosenthal approach, Fail-safe N method, Egger’s test with a P-value <0.05, and funnel plot symmetry were used to detect publication bias. Random effect analysis was used to find out the pooled effect size. The Stata 17 software was used to perform analysis. Result The pooled estimated uptake of CCS was 13.08% (POR 13.08; 95% CI: 10.24, 15.93; I2 = 81.93%). Common factors associated with uptake of CCS were adequacy of knowledge (POR = 3.48; 95% CI: 2.74, 4.23; I2 = 0%), attitudes of women (POR = 3.51; 95% CI: 2.96, 4.07; I2 = 0%), and perceived susceptibility (POR = 4.03; CI: 2.68, 5.39; I2 = 46.38%). A slightly high degree of overlap of studies was observed. Conclusion and Recommendation The pooled estimated CCS is low. Factors like adequacy of knowledge of CCa, attitudes of women, and perception of susceptibility among women showed a significant association with cervical cancer screening uptake. Creating a platform where women can get adequate and focused information about cervical cancer and screening is crucial.
Research Hotspots and Trends of NK Cell Immunotherapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Bibliometric Analysis From 2000 to 2023
Authors: Chen Shupeng , Liu Jie , Xia Kaiyue , Gao Yao , Zeng Yingjian 
Published: December 2024

Background Natural killer (NK) cell immunotherapy has shown promising therapeutic potential for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), especially with advancements in chimeric antigen receptor-engineered NK cells (CAR-NK) and artificial intelligence (AI). Despite these developments, the field lacks comprehensive bibliometric analyses to identify research hotspots and trends, which could guide future precision treatments. Methods A bibliometric analysis of NK cell immunotherapy for AML was conducted using literature from 2000 to 2023 retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Data visualization tools like CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and RStudio were employed to analyze publication trends, country contributions, institutional collaborations, influential authors, and research themes. Results The analysis identified 1513 studies, with the United States and China leading global contributions. Notable institutions include the University of Minnesota and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Hot topics include allogeneic NK therapy, CAR-NK cell therapy, and memory-like NK cells. Emerging trends highlight the integration of intelligent NK cells and combinatory therapies, offering promising avenues for AML treatment. Despite progress, challenges such as NK cell expansion, activation, and resistance mechanisms remain critical areas for research. Conclusion This study provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape, highlighting the transformative potential of NK cell immunotherapy in AML. It underscores the need for international collaboration and continued innovation to overcome existing challenges and advance precision therapies.
Chatbot-Based Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program for University Students With Depressive Symptoms: Intervention Development and Pilot Evaluation
Authors: Li Yan , Chung Tsz Yu , Lu Wenze , Li Mengqi , Ho Ying Wai Bryan , He Mengting , Mei Xiaoxiao , Chen Dapeng , Bressington Daniel 
Published: December 2024

Background: Depression is a growing concern among university students. Chatbots provide flexible, accessible, personalized psychosocial support. Delivering Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) sessions via chatbots may reduce depressive symptoms in university students. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and preliminary efficacy of a chatbot-based MBSR intervention for university students with depressive symptoms. Methods: A rule-based MBSR chatbot was developed and evaluated with a single-group pretest–posttest study for university students in Hong Kong ( N = 30) reporting depressive symptoms, followed by the collection of their subjective feedback. The intervention lasted eight weeks. The primary clinical outcome was depression levels, with a range of secondary outcomes. Results: The chatbot-based MBSR program demonstrated satisfying recruitment, retention, and adherence rates. The safety of the program was confirmed by the absence of any adverse events directly related to the intervention, tracked from the onset of the intervention to the completion of data assessment. Significant improvements were observed in both primary and secondary outcomes. Participant feedback highlighted the benefits of the program and its effects on depressive symptoms. Conclusions: The program has shown feasibility, acceptability, safety, and preliminary efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms among 30 university students in Hong Kong. The intervention should now be evaluated in a randomized controlled trial with follow-up. This study highlights the potential role of chatbot-based interventions in mental health promotion, nursing, and clinical practice and will inform the subsequent development of innovative digital interventions to address mental health challenges faced by university students.
Measurement of ground reaction forces in cats after total hip replacement
Authors: Schweng Gregor , Bockstahler Barbara , Tichy Alexander , Zahn Klaus , Haimel Georg , Schwarz Günter , Schnabl-Feichter Eva 
Published: December 2024

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate ground reaction forces (GRFs) in cats after unilateral total hip replacement (THR) and compare them with cats after femoral head and neck ostectomy (FHO). Methods The databases of the Small Animal Clinic of the Veterinary University in Vienna and three referral clinics were searched for cats that had undergone unilateral THR with the BioMedtrix Micro total hip system or FHO more than 6 months previously. Owners were invited to complete a survey and bring their cats for re-examination, inlcuding clinical and orthopaedic examinations, hip radiography and a gait analysis using a pressure-sensitive plate. Results Nine cats were included in each group. Cats after THR showed larger GRF values (peak vertical force [PFz] and vertical impulse [IFz] normalised to total force [%TF]) on the operated limb. The resulting symmetry indices (SIs) were lower in terms of vertical force in 7/9 (78%) cats and vertical impulse in 6/9 (67%) cats between the hindlimbs in cats after THR compared with FHO – SI (PFz) = 3.31% ± 2.19% (THR) vs 4.84% ± 2.99% (FHO) and SI (IFz) = 5.17% ± 3.66% (THR) vs 8.27% ± 3.12% (FHO). Cats after FHO showed significantly lower muscle circumference and range of motion (ROM) at the operated hindlimb compared with the contralateral side, whereas cats after THR showed no statistically significant differences between their hindlimbs. Owner surveys revealed significant differences in their subjective assessment of activity and change in gait between the two groups, with better values for cats after THR. Conclusions and relevance This was the first study that measured GRFs in cats after THR. PFz (%TF) and IFz (%TF) values were higher in the operated limb of the THR group than in those of the FHO group, resulting in lower symmetry indices (indicating better symmetry) and better loading of the corresponding hindlimb. This finding is clinically relevant and can help in making decisions regarding the treatment of hip joint pathologies in cats.
Investigating the complementary value of OCT to MRI in cognitive impairment in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Christensen Ronja , Jolly Amy , Yam Charmaine , Yiannakas Marios C , Toosy Ahmed T , Pitteri Marco , He Anna , Nistri Riccardo , Mohamud Suraya , Samdanidou Eirini , Thompson Alan J , Ciccarelli Olga 
Published: December 2024

Background: Cognitive decline in multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with neuro-axonal loss, quantifiable by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Associations between OCT measures and cognition in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) remain incompletely investigated, particularly the added value of OCT when combined with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We investigated the contributions of OCT and MRI while applying stringent criteria to control for subclinical optic neuropathy. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 137 RRMS patients underwent OCT, Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS (BICAMS), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and brain MRI (lesion load, grey and white matter volume); associations were explored using linear regression models. Results: RRMS patients (aged 40.88 ± 10.6 years; disease duration 7.95 ± 7.39 years; EDSS 2; 0–6.5) were studied. Of BICAMS, 50.36% showed impaired Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), 37.23% impaired Brief Visuospatial Memory Test and 5.11% impaired California Verbal Learning and Memory Test; better SDMT performance was associated with thicker ganglion cell-inner plexiform (GCIPL) layers for eyes unaffected by optic neuritis ( B = 0.23, 95% CI = (0.01–0.44), p = 0.03), but not when MRI measures were included ( B = 0.18, CI = (−0.03 to 0.38), p = 0.09). Conclusion: GCIPL thinning correlates with SDMT, supporting OCT as a biomarker of cognitive dysfunction. However, GCIPL did not uniquely predict SDMT performance when including MRI measures, suggesting limited utility of OCT in predicting cognitive performance over MRI in RRMS.
Material hardship and sources of support for autistic adolescents and their families
Authors: Anderson Kristy A , Radey Melissa , Bishop Lauren , Aguirre Mtanous Nahime G , Koenig Jamie , Shea Lindsay 
Published: December 2024

This exploratory study used the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study (FFCWS) to compare the financial well-being of families of adolescents with and without autism. Recognizing the gap in autism research, which predominantly measures financial well-being through household income, this study employed a multidimensional approach, including indicators of assets, material hardships, and both formal and informal safety net access. We found that families with autistic adolescents experienced greater financial instability, including a higher likelihood of substantial income drops and bankruptcy. Despite similar access to food assistance programs, food insecurity was notably higher among these families, especially in the lowest income brackets where nearly all families utilized food assistance. Furthermore, material hardship prevalence (46.4%) exceeded income poverty (29.8%), among families with autistic adolescents. A substantial proportion of middle- to high-income families also experienced hardships, had no assets, and lacked connection to safety net programs, suggesting that income-based metrics may not fully capture the financial challenges families face. The findings highlight the need for policies that acknowledge the broader financial needs of families with autistic adolescents, underscoring the inadequacies of current support systems. Lay abstract Our study looks at how families with autistic teenagers manage financially compared with families with teenagers who do not have autism. We know that money matters are a big part of life’s overall quality and that autistic individuals and their families often face more financial challenges. These challenges can affect their health, social connections, and access to needed services. What our research adds is a closer look at these financial difficulties by considering not just how much money a family has but also what they own, their struggles to meet basic needs, and the help they get from both government programs and their own social circles. We found that families with autistic teenagers often deal with more financial problems, including not having enough food, even though they might be using available support programs. This is important because it shows us that the current ways of helping may not be enough. Our findings suggest we need to think more broadly about how to support these families. This could mean making policies that better address their unique needs or coming up with new ways to help them that go beyond just looking at income. Understanding these challenges better can help us make life better for autistic individuals and their families.
Curating and co-producing atmospheres in street food markets: Exploring the roles and interplay between people, food and spaces
Authors: Hracs Brian J , Concha Paz 
Published: December 2024

Street food markets are increasingly popular in cities around the world. While their size, formality and success differ, each market offers an affective atmosphere consisting of material and immaterial elements including the food, traders, consumers, aesthetics, sights, smells, sounds and connections to places and heritage. Studies assert that affective atmospheres are staged, yet the actors and activities involved in these processes remain poorly understood. Drawing on 9 months of ethnographic fieldwork, this paper applies the concept of curation to affective atmospheres and examines the curatorial practices of street food market organisers in London. Rather than promoting ‘good’ food, it demonstrates that these commercially motivated curators match demand with ‘appropriate’ (1) spaces, (2) food and (3) people. The paper argues that affective atmospheres are partially staged, in advance, by market organisers but also co-produced by the performances and interactions of traders, consumers, food and other non-human elements during market events. It also asserts that spaces contain and shape affective atmospheres and highlights how specific motivations shape the nature of curation and affective atmospheres.