bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
“God” is a Concept, God is Not? The Promise of Postcolonial Epistemology for the Use of Grounded Theory in Empirical Theology
Authors: Müller Sabrina , Pleizier Theo 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This paper explores the intersection of theology, postcolonialism, and theory-building within empirical theology, highlighting the complex interplay between linguistic constructions and lived experiences of the divine. Drawing on postcolonial epistemology, the study advocates an inductive research strategy, particularly through the use of Grounded Theory methodology. It critically engages with ongoing debates within Grounded Theory, emphasizing the need for reflexivity in recognizing dominant discourses that may shape the researcher’s understanding of participants’ experiences. By examining specific case studies, the text illustrates how research participants’ attributions to God challenge conventional theological concepts, prompting a reconsideration of the nature of God-related language. Ultimately, this work calls for a nuanced understanding of empirical theology in which both “God” and lived religious experiences emerge as essential elements of theological discourse, urging scholars to remain attentive to the realities of participants’ lived faith.
Black soldier fly farming in Bangladesh: current practices, farmer’s challenges and future opportunities
Authors: Akanda M.A.B.R. , Hashem S. , Roy P. , Haque M.M. , Salam M.A. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Black soldier fly (BSF) farming provides a sustainable solution for waste management and animal feed costs. This study explores the current practices, challenges, and opportunities of BSF farming in Bangladesh through a survey of 60 farmers across 21 districts, using Kobo-Toolbox through a combination of Computer-assisted Personal and Telephonic Interview (CAPI and CATI) method with purposive and snowball sampling. Male-dominated (98.3%) farming, learned through YouTube tutorials (63.3%) with a motivation to reduce feed cost (35.1%) serves as the major driver of BSF farming in Bangladesh. A strong negative correlation (r2 = 0.7278, ) was observed between farmers’ economic (low-interest loans, 24.8%) and technical (farming training, 17.7%) needs. BSF, largely raised using fruit (19.0%) and vegetable waste (18.7%) are primarily used as live feed for fish (50.7%) and poultry (46.4%), with selling prices ranging from US$ 0.42-0.84/kg for fresh/live larvae, US$ 2.93-4.19/kg for pupae, US$ 0.042-0.13/kg for dried frass, and US$ 0.42-2.51/kg for eggs. Only 23.3% of farmers practiced substrate fermentation. Weighted scoring analysis highlighted marketing challenges (655.4) driven by inadequate storage facilities (186.3) as most prominent, followed by substrate sourcing (608.6) and daily-operational difficulties (566.7), linked to transportation issues (150.3) and temperature/humidity control (136.8), with no significant differences among these categories (F = 0.336, ). Factor analysis revealed farmers’ prioritization of economic benefits (pet food and cosmetics production) over environmental sustainability. Given the diverse prospects of BSF farming, further research is recommended to address farmers challenges, providing policy interventions including low-interest loans, farming training, and improved market infrastructure.
Disruptive Signification in a Hybrid Media Ecology: Civilisational Populism in Pakistan, Turkey and Indonesia
Authors: Yilmaz Ihsan , de Groot Heupner Susan , Morieson Nicholas , Bliuc Ana-Maria 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This paper employs the ontic/ontological distinction to explore the relationship between religion and populism in Pakistan, Turkey, and Indonesia within a hybrid media ecology. Building on recent discussions of nationalism and populism, the study investigates civilizational populism through the lens of the ontic/ontological distinction, which separates the ‘content’ and ‘form’ of populism. This framework is critical for understanding how populist movements utilize religion to construct notions of ‘the nation,’ ‘the people,’ and ‘civilization.’ The paper examines how Islamic and Islamist positions intertwine with populist narratives, deconstructing the concept of religious populism and exploring how hybrid media dynamics support these constructions. Drawing on 164 semi-structured interviews with populist supporters conducted ahead of the 2023/2024 elections, the study analyses how religious and ideological identifications shape populist narratives. Hybrid media ecology emerges as a vital factor in sustaining the ontic and ontological dimensions of religious populism, amplifying emotional attachments to ‘us’ while intensifying antagonisms toward the ‘Other.’ The findings reveal how social and legacy media interact to mediate these dynamics, reinforcing populist imaginaries.
Synergistic reinforcement of HDPE biocomposites with kaolinite nanoparticles and alfa fiber: A path toward enhanced performance
Authors: Kablan Ebah , Nazih Fatima-Ezzahra , Bensalah Hala , Nekhlaoui Souad , Raji Marya , Essabir Hamid , Bouhfid Rachid , Qaiss Abou el Kacem 
Published: February 2025

This study developed sustainable, cost-effective hybrid composites using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced with kaolinite particles (KP) and alfa short fibers (ASF) in varying volume fractions (15/0, 10/5, 7.5/7.5, 5/10, 0/15). Injection-molded composites were analyzed for mechanical, thermal, and rheological properties, revealing significant improvements in Young’s modulus (up to 61.60%) with KP and ASF additions. Hybrid composites (7.5:7.5 and 10:5) showed superior elasticity, while the 5:10 formulation achieved the highest storage modulus of 1874 MPa, outperforming pure HDPE (1035 MPa). Thermal analysis indicated stable KP-rich composites and progressive crystallization disruption with increasing filler content. To align experimental and theoretical results, the Young’s modulus for KP and ASF was estimated at 5000 MPa and 8500 MPa, respectively. The optimal 7.5:7.5 hybrid offered balanced mechanical and thermal performance with enhanced elasticity and reduced energy consumption during processing, demonstrating the potential of these hybrids as renewable, sustainable materials for automotive, construction, and sports applications.
Ageing and higher BMI explain movement control impairment distinctly better than chronic pain and its contributing factors: A cross-sectional study of 161 subjects with chronic low back pain and 42 pain-free controls
Authors: Mikkonen Jani , Reito Aleksi , Luomajoki Hannu , Airaksinen Olavi , Takatalo Jani , Pesonen Janne , Leinonen Ville 
Published: February 2025

Background Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of motor control impairments are among the most widely implemented management strategies for chronic low back pain (CLBP). Low back movement control tests described by Luomajoki et al. are reliable and valid for assessing the presence and severity of motor control impairment. However, very little is known about the importance of demographic and well-established CLBP contributing factors in explaining the presence and severity of any type of motor control impairment. Objective The study objectives were to evaluate the associations of the presence and the severity of movement control impairment with age, gender, BMI, CLBP and its intensity and duration, postural stability, self-reported central sensitization, kinesiophobia, and CLBP-related disability with logistic and ordinal regressions and Wald chi-squared tests. Methods This cross-sectional study included 161 subjects with CLBP and 42 pain-free controls. The study was carried out in single private chiropractic clinic. Results Higher age and BMI were distinctly greater associated with a higher presence and severity of movement control impairment compared to the pain-related factors, namely the CLBP or its intensity or duration, central sensitization, kinesiophobia, and CLBP-related disability. Conclusions Results highlight the importance of considering demographic factors, such as age and BMI, when interpreting motor control impairment findings. Accordingly, the findings challenge the validity of testing motor control impairment in the management of CLBP.
Older adults with cervical spine fractures – Epidemiology, management and outcomes from a level 1 trauma centre
Authors: Kimmel Lara A , Kirk Asher , Broderick Shane , Liew Susan , Burchall Gavin , Cameron Peter 
Published: February 2025

Introduction Cervical spine fractures are common in older adults, although reports of the epidemiology and outcomes of this patient cohort are scant. The aim of this study was to review the epidemiology, management and outcomes (hospital-based and patient-reported) of older patients with cervical fractures admitted to a level 1 trauma centre. Methods Patients aged ≥65 years who were admitted to The Alfred and included on the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) with a cervical spine fracture were included. Demographics and management (surgery, halo thoracic orthosis or conservative), as well as hospital and 6-month outcomes were analysed. Factors associated with cervical spine management and outcomes (discharge destination and being at home at 6 months post-injury) were assessed using logistic regression. Results Between 2016 and 2021, a total of 853 patients were included. Median age was 79 (IQR 72–86) years, with most (57.7%) being male. Low falls (59%) were common. Most patients were managed non-operatively [765 (89%)]. The median acute hospital length of stay was 6.8 (IQR 3.8–11.6) days and 90.6% of patients survived to hospital discharge. After adjusting for confounding factors, increasing age, female gender and having an intensive care unit stay were associated with discharge to another inpatient facility as well as not returning to live at home at 6 months. There was no association between the cervical spine management and 6-month quality of life outcomes. Conclusion Overall mortality rate was low with most patients returning to independent living at home 6 months post-injury. Considering those factors associated with poorer outcomes may provide useful information to determine optimal pathways for this cohort.
Impact of corticosteroids on the efficacy of first-line pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Roboubi Amytis , Wasielewski Eric , Bordier Soraya , Turlotte Amélie , Pavaut Geoffrey , Scherpereel Arnaud , Cortot Alexis , Gauvain Clément 
Published: February 2025

Background: Systemic corticosteroids (SCs) are associated with reduced survival in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) monotherapy. However, the current first-line standard of care usually involves combined chemotherapy (CT) and ICIs, and the effect of SCs on survival under combined CT and ICI has never been studied. Objectives: To investigate the association between SC therapy and survival under CT-ICI in advanced-stage NSCLC patients. Design: We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study of all advanced-stage NSCLC patients receiving first-line CT-ICI. Methods: The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) according to SC exposure status (⩾10 mg/day), adjusted in a multivariate Cox model for the following confounders: age, performance status, hospital admission prior to treatment, number of metastatic sites, brain metastases, bone metastases, PD-L1 status, and histological subtype. Multivariate analyses also explored the association between dosage and SC exposure duration and PFS. Results: Of the 193 included patients, 43 (22.3%) were receiving SCs, mainly because of symptomatic brain metastases (in 25/43 cases, 58%). In multivariate analysis, SC therapy at a 10 mg/day threshold was not associated with PFS (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77–2.03, p = 0.35). However, SC dose was negatively associated with PFS (HR = 1.08 per 10 mg/day increment, 95% CI 1.01–1.16, p = 0.01) especially at doses ⩾60 mg/day (HR = 3.27 per 10 mg/day increment, 95% CI 2.01–5.35, p < 0.001). Duration of SC therapy was not associated with PFS (HR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.81–1.15, p = 0.71), but SC therapy ⩾4 weeks prior to CT-ICI was associated with shorter PFS (HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01–1.14, p = 0.028). Conclusion: In this group of patients receiving first-line CT-ICI for advanced NSCLC, SCs at ⩾60 mg/day were associated with shorter PFS, but lower doses were not. Prolonged SC therapy prior to CT-ICI was associated with shorter PFS. Larger studies are required to confirm these results.
Menopause-specific quality of life and attitude towards menopause among a group of postmenopausal women living in the city of Kolkata, India
Authors: Mukherjee Satabdi , Som Nivedita , Roy Subho 
Published: February 2025

We attempted to assess Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) and attitude towards menopause with respect to ‘years after menopause’ and also association between MENQOL and attitude towards menopause. One hundred and eighty-two Bengali Hindu postmenopausal women (aged 42 to 65 years) living in Kolkata, India participated in the study. Data on socio-demographic, reproductive characteristics, MENQOL, and attitude towards menopause were collected. Results revealed that botheration with symptoms related to vasomotor and sexual domains remained significantly higher among the participants within 3 years after menopause, while botheration with symptoms related to physical and psychosocial domains and the impairment in MENQOL were likely to increase with increase in ‘years after menopause’. Participants who attained menopause less than 3 years ago had positive attitude towards menopause than that of those who attained menopause more than 3 years ago. Hierarchical linear regression suggested that score of attitude towards menopause was inversely associated with symptoms related to psychosocial domain, but was positively associated with educational levels and occupational types of the participants. We conclude that Bengali Hindu postmenopausal women reported impaired MENQOL and developed negative attitude towards menopause with increase in ‘years after menopause’. After controlling the confounders, only psychosocial domain showed strong association with attitude towards menopause.
Satisfaction with a daily supportive text messaging program aimed at promoting psychological well-being of educators: Outcomes from implementation of the Wellness4Teachers
Authors: Agyapong Belinda , Brett-MacLean Pamela , da Luz Dias Raquel , Wei Yifeng , Agyapong Vincent Israel Opoku 
Published: February 2025

Background The Wellness4Teachers program, a daily supportive text messaging program, was launched in Canada to mitigate psychological problems among teachers. Objective This study assessed subscribers’ experiences and satisfaction with the Wellness4Teachers supportive text messaging program. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted during the 2022/2023 academic year and employed a mixed-methods approach. Data was collected from educators who self-subscribed to the free Wellness4Teachers program in Canada. Participants’ satisfaction levels were assessed using a Likert scale to evaluate the responses to different aspects of the program. Frequency counts and percentages were used to summarize quantitative responses. Qualitative data from responses to open-ended questions in the satisfaction survey were analyzed using content analysis. Results Overall, 88.3% of the participants were female, and 11.7% were male. 68.2% of participants agreed that Wellness4Teachers text messages helped them manage stress, 63.1% agreed it helped them cope with anxiety, and 74.4% felt connected to a support system. Additionally, 73.6% reported improved overall mental well-being due to the program, and 72.2% felt hopeful about managing concerns with their mental health. Further, 95.4% of respondents reported that the text messages were always or often positive, and 93.3% deemed them to be always or often affirming. Elementary school teachers and administrators had significantly higher mean satisfaction scores compared to senior high school teachers and educators who selected "other" as their major role in school. Qualitative feedback highlighted preferences for message delivery times and suggestions for enhancing personalization features to improve the Wellness4Teachers program. Conclusion This study demonstrates that educators were highly satisfied with and receptive to the Wellness4Teachers program. With the addition of enhanced personalization features suggested by the educators, the program may help to effectively supplement support for teachers’ psychological well-being while offsetting challenges associated with time constraints and geographical location.
Repurposing peripheral immunocytes of Bacillus Calmette Guerin-vaccinated melanoma patients to reveal preventive Alzheimer's disease mechanisms, possibly via the unfolded protein response
Authors: Klein Benjamin Y , Ben-David Inna , Gofrit Ofer N , Greenblatt Charles L 
Published: February 2025

Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) dysfunctional unfolded protein response (UPR) is revealed by amyloid-β aggregates. Normally, UPR reacts to endoplasmic reticulum stress by resolving misfolded/aggregated proteins, and UPR failure induces brain-cell apoptosis consistent with AD pathology. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and immunocyte brain infiltrates are involved in AD pathogenesis, whose risk is lowered by the Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) vaccine. Hypothetically, BCG prevents AD caused by UPR-driven apoptosis in PBMC brain infiltrates, corrected by BCG-vaccinated PBMC brain infiltrates. Objective To reveal whether BCG shifts the UPR towards cell survival. Method: PBMC proteins from 6 individuals were compared by immuno-electrophoresis before and after BCG hypervaccination. Cryopreserved PBMC provided an opportunity to analyze the BCG impact on the UPR, although their donor destiny to develop AD was unknown. UPR signaling responsive to BCG was recorded to examine if BCG can influence UPR signaling and thereby explain the previously demonstrated AD prevention by BCG. Results UPR signal levels were scored according to positive versus negative cell survival odds by the BCG impact on a dozen UPR signals. The balance between positive and negative scores of individuals emphasizes the impact of the BCG vaccine on the UPR. The antiapoptotic UPR signals under BCG show opposite trends to UPR signals in AD brains, reported by the literature. In conclusion, 3/6 individuals had superior PBMC survival chances under BCG. Conclusions These results suggest that the UPR is part of the mechanism responsible for reducing the risk of AD, as previously shown among BCG-treated bladder cancer patients.
A rapid and effective approach to building a life-saving multidisciplinary team for transferred postpartum haemorrhage patients: leveraging trauma experience—a retrospective study
Authors: Yu Pei-Hsiu , Hung Kuo-Shu , Kang Lin , Yang Tsung-Han , Wu Chun-Hsien , Tsai Pei-Yin , Wang Chih-Jung , Yen Yi-Ting , Yu Chen-Hsiang , Chang Chiung-Hsin 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Establishing an efficient multidisciplinary team for transferred postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) cases is challenging due to limited clinical exposure. We hypothesised that leveraging trauma team experience could effectively facilitate the development of such a team within a short timeframe.

Methods
In September 2019, a multidisciplinary team was established at our tertiary care centre to provide rapid management of critical PPH cases transferred from the obstetric clinic, prioritising immediate resuscitation and haemostatic interventions. This historical cohort study (2017–2022) compared outcomes before (2017–2018, before group [BG]) and after (2019–2022, after group [AG]) team establishment. Outcomes included process-related quality indicators, clinical measures such as length of hospital stay, intensive care unit (ICU) days, presence of the lethal triad, and hysterectomy rate.

Results
Of the 71 PPH patients transferred during the study period, 24 were in the BG and 47 in the AG. The AG demonstrated higher use of tranexamic acid (33.33% vs. 74.47%, P = 0.002), shorter time to the first blood transfusion (11 vs. 8 min, P = 0.029), and increased rates of arrival in the operating room within 60 min (25% vs. 80%, P = 0.014). Clinical outcomes showed reduced rates of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (16.67% vs. 0%, P = 0.011) and shorter ICU stays (4 vs. 1 day, P = 0.005) in the AG.

Conclusions
Leveraging trauma team expertise is an effective strategy for establishing a multidisciplinary PPH team, significantly improving outcomes for critically ill PPH patients transferred from obstetric clinics.
Elevations of α-fetoprotein in patients undergoing chemotherapy for pure testicular seminoma: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Costelloe Seán J. , Spencer Jennifer D. , Humphries Kathryn , Stark Daniel , Dunwoodie Elaine 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
α-Fetoprotein (AFP) is conventionally absent in testicular classical seminoma (TCS). However, moderate AFP elevations can occur in TCS patients, as observed at this and other centres, which can be challenging to diagnostic and management practices.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study considered AFP concentration in the context of germ-cell tumour diagnosis and characterisation at baseline (BL), disease status during chemotherapy, and long-term surveillance. The study considered patients with histologically diagnosed stage 1 TCS requiring chemotherapy over six years. For those with AFP above the reference interval at BL, histological imaging, case notes, and biochemical data were reviewed from BL to surveillance completion. Outcomes included AFP changes, diagnoses, therapy, disease progression, and death.

Results
Of the 175 patients included, eight (4.6%) had elevated AFP at BL. Of these, two showed statistically but not clinically significant AFP changes during therapy, while six had moderate, stable AFP elevations with no changes in diagnosis during follow-up. During therapy, one patient developed metastases, and one died of causes likely unrelated to their TCS.

Conclusions
Mild elevations of AFP in TCS may lead to diagnostic uncertainty or inappropriate management and investigation. However, AFP changes, alongside imaging, did not affect diagnosis, therapy, or follow-up at this centre for any of the patients examined. A subgroup of TCS patients has stable, moderate AFP elevations unrelated to tumour aetiology.