vi Analysis of Positional Preference in Drosophila Using Multibeam Activity Monitors By cshprotocols.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-11-01T06:46:10-07:00 The positional preference of an animal can be very informative regarding the choices it makes about how to interact with its environment. The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster has been used as a robust system for examining neurobiological mechanisms underlying behavior. Fruit fly positional preference can be gathered from TriKinetics Drosophila activity monitors (DAMs), which contain four infrared beams, allowing for tracking the position of individual flies along the length of a tube. Here, we describe a method for using DAM5Ms to examine food preference. Specifically, we show an example in which circadian changes in food preference are compared between different Drosophila species. More information about the evolution of behavior can be gathered by measuring feeding preference relative to time of day. Noni, fruit from Morinda citrifolia, contains octanoic acid, a chemical toxic to many species of Drosophila. D. melanogaster and D. simulans, both food generalists, show high sensitivity to octanoic acid, whereas D. sechellia, a specialist, can tolerate high concentrations. When two different food substrates are provided at each end of a tube, food preference can be inferred at various times of the day, using the sleep and circadian analysis MATLAB program (SCAMP) to extract and analyze positional data from DAM5Ms. Data gathered from these analyses can be used to compare avoidance or attraction to nutrients, tastants, or odors between species and genotypes or after specific different treatments. Additionally, such data can be examined as a function of time of day. Full Article
vi Neural Stimulation during Drosophila Activity Monitor (DAM)-Based Studies of Sleep and Circadian Rhythms in Drosophila melanogaster By cshprotocols.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-11-01T06:46:10-07:00 Sleep is a fundamental feature of life for virtually all multicellular animals, but many questions remain about how sleep is regulated by circadian rhythms, homeostatic sleep drive that builds up with wakefulness, and modifying factors such as hunger or social interactions, as well as about the biological functions of sleep. Substantial headway has been made in the study of both circadian rhythms and sleep in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, much of it through studies of individual fly activity using Drosophila activity monitors (DAMs). Here, we describe approaches for the activation of specific neurons of interest using optogenetics (involving genetic modifications that allow for light-based neuronal activation) and thermogenetics (involving genetic modifications that allow for temperature-based neuronal activation) so that researchers can evaluate the roles of those neurons in controlling rest and activity behavior. In this protocol, we describe how to set up a rig for simultaneous optogenetic or thermogenetic stimulation and activity monitoring for analysis of sleep and circadian rhythms in Drosophila, how to raise appropriate flies, and how to perform the experiment. This protocol will allow researchers to assess the causative role in the regulation of sleep and activity rhythms of any genetically tractable subset of cells. Full Article
vi Activity Monitoring for Analysis of Sleep in Drosophila melanogaster By cshprotocols.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-11-01T06:46:10-07:00 Sleep is important for survival, and the need for sleep is conserved across species. In the past two decades, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster has emerged as a promising system in which to study the genetic, neural, and physiological bases of sleep. Through significant advances in our understanding of the regulation of sleep in flies, the field is poised to address several open questions about sleep, such as how the need for sleep is encoded, how molecular regulators of sleep are situated within brain networks, and what the functions of sleep are. Here, we describe key findings, open questions, and commonly used methods that have been used to inform existing theories and develop new ways of thinking about the function, regulation, and adaptability of sleep behavior. Full Article
vi Healthcare avoidance during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and all-cause mortality: a longitudinal community-based study By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 BackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, global trends of reduced healthcare-seeking behaviour were observed. This raises concerns about the consequences of healthcare avoidance for population health.AimTo determine the association between healthcare avoidance during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and all-cause mortality.Design and settingThis was a 32-month follow-up within the population-based Rotterdam Study, after sending a COVID-19 questionnaire at the onset of the pandemic in April 2020 to all communty dwelling participants (n = 6241/8732, response rate 71.5%).MethodCox proportional hazards models assessed the risk of all-cause mortality among respondents who avoided health care because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mortality status was collected through municipality registries and medical records.ResultsOf 5656 respondents, one-fifth avoided health care because of the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 1143). Compared with non-avoiders, those who avoided health care more often reported symptoms of depression (n = 357, 31.2% versus n = 554, 12.3%) and anxiety (n = 340, 29.7% versus n = 549, 12.2%), and more often rated their health as poor to fair (n = 336, 29.4% versus n = 457, 10.1%) . Those who avoided health care had an increased adjusted risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01 to 1.67), which remained nearly identical after adjustment for history of any non-communicable disease (HR 1.20, 95% CI = 0.93 to 1.54). However, this association attenuated after additional adjustment for mental and physical self-perceived health factors (HR 0.93, 95% CI = 0.71 to 1.20).ConclusionThis study found an increased risk of all-cause mortality among individuals who avoided health care during COVID-19. These individuals were characterised by poor mental and physical self-perceived health. Therefore, interventions should be targeted to these vulnerable individuals to safeguard their access to primary and specialist care to limit health disparities, inside and beyond healthcare crises. Full Article
vi Geographic inequalities in need and provision of social prescribing link workers a retrospective study in primary care By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 BackgroundLong-term health conditions are major challenges for care systems. Social prescribing link workers have been introduced via primary care networks (PCNs) across England since 2019 to address the wider determinants of health by connecting individuals to activities, groups, or services within their local community.AimTo assess whether the rollout of social prescribing link workers was in areas with the highest need.Design and settingA retrospective study of social prescribing link workers in England from 2019 to 2023.MethodWorkforce, population, survey, and area-level data at the PCN-level from April 2020 to October 2023 were combined. Population need before the rollout of link workers was measured using reported lack of support from local services in the 2019 General Practice Patient Survey. To assess if rollout reflected need, linear regression was used to relate provision of link workers (measured by full-time equivalent [FTE] per 10 000 patients) in each quarter to population need for support.ResultsPopulations in urban, more deprived areas and with higher proportions of people from minority ethnic groups had the highest reported lack of support. Geographically these were in the North West and London. Initially, there was no association between need and provision; then from July 2022, this became negative and significant. By October 2023, a 10-percentage point higher need for support was associated with a 0.035 (95% confidence interval = −0.634 to −0.066) lower FTE per 10 000 patients.ConclusionRollout of link workers has not been sufficiently targeted at areas with the highest need. Future deployments should be targeted at those areas. Full Article
vi Weight trends among adults with diabetes or hypertension during the COVID-19 pandemic: an observational study using OpenSAFELY By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 BackgroundCOVID-19 pandemic restrictions may have influenced behaviours related to weight.AimTo describe patterns of weight change among adults living in England with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and/or hypertension during the pandemic.Design and settingAn observational cohort study using the routinely collected health data of approximately 40% of adults living in England, accessed through the OpenSAFELY service inside TPP.MethodClinical and sociodemographic characteristics associated with rapid weight gain (>0.5 kg/m2/year) were investigated using multivariable logistic regression.ResultsData were extracted on adults with T2D (n = 1 231 455, 43.9% female, and 76.0% White British) or hypertension (n = 3 558 405, 49.7% female, and 84.3% White British). Adults with T2D lost weight overall (median δ = −0.1 kg/m2/year [interquartile range {IQR} −0.7–0.4]). However, rapid weight gain was common (20.7%) and associated with the following: sex (male versus female: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.78 [95% confidence interval {CI} = 0.77 to 0.79]); age (older age reduced odds, for example, aged 60–69 years versus 18–29 years: aOR 0.66 [95% CI = 0.61 to 0.71]); deprivation (least deprived Index of Multiple Deprivation [IMD] quintile versus most deprived IMD quintile: aOR 0.87 [95% CI = 0.85 to 0.89]); White ethnicity (Black versus White: aOR 0.95 [95% CI = 0.92 to 0.98]); mental health conditions (for example, depression: aOR 1.13 [95% CI = 1.12 to 1.15]); and diabetes treatment (non-insulin treatment versus no pharmacological treatment: aOR 0.68 [95% CI = 0.67 to 0.69]). Adults with hypertension maintained stable weight overall (median δ = 0.0 kg/m2/year [IQR −0.6–0.5]); however, rapid weight gain was common (24.7%) and associated with similar characteristics as in T2D.ConclusionAmong adults living in England with T2D and/or hypertension, rapid pandemic weight gain was more common among females, younger adults, those living in more deprived areas, and those with mental health conditions. Full Article
vi Information needs for GPs on type 2 diabetes in Western countries: a systematic review By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 BackgroundMost people with type 2 diabetes receive treatment in primary care by GPs who are not specialised in diabetes. Thus, it is important to uncover the most essential information needs regarding type 2 diabetes in general practice.AimTo identify information needs related to type 2 diabetes for GPs.Design and settingSystematic review focused on literature relating to Western countries.MethodMEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and CINAHL were searched from inception to January 2024. Two researchers conducted the selection process, and citation searches were performed to identify any relevant articles missed by the database search. Quality appraisal was conducted with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Meaning units were coded individually, grouped into categories, and then studies were summarised within the context of these categories using narrative synthesis. An evidence map was created to highlight research gaps.ResultsThirty-nine included studies revealed eight main categories and 36 subcategories of information needs. Categories were organised into a comprehensive hierarchical model of information needs, suggesting ‘Knowledge of guidelines’ and ‘Reasons for referral’ as general information needs alongside more specific needs on ‘Medication’, ‘Management’, ‘Complications’, ‘Diagnosis’, ‘Risk factors’, and ‘Screening for diabetes’. The evidence map provides readers with the opportunity to explore the characteristics of the included studies in detail.ConclusionThis systematic review provides GPs, policymakers, and researchers with a hierarchical model of information and educational needs for GPs, and an evidence map showing gaps in the current literature. Information needs about clinical guidelines and reasons for referral to specialised care overlapped with needs for more specific information. Full Article
vi GPs’ views of prescribing beta- blockers for people with anxiety disorders: a qualitative study By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 BackgroundBetween 2003 and 2018, incident prescriptions of beta-blockers for anxiety increased substantially, particularly for young adults. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance for anxiety does not recommend beta-blockers, probably due to a lack of evidence to support such use. Recent reports have highlighted the potential risks of beta-blockers.AimTo understand when and why GPs prescribe beta-blockers for people with anxiety.Design and settingIn-depth interviews with 17 GPs in Bristol and the surrounding areas.MethodInterviews were held by telephone or video call. A topic guide was used to ensure consistency across interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically.ResultsMany GPs viewed beta-blockers as ‘low risk’, particularly for young adults. Some GPs viewed beta-blockers as an alternative to benzodiazepines, acting quickly and not leading to dependence. GPs reflected that some patients appeared to want an ‘immediate fix’ to their symptoms, which GPs thought beta-blockers could potentially offer. This is salient in light of substantial waiting lists for talking therapies and delays in antidepressants taking effect. GPs described how some patients seemed more willing to try beta-blockers than antidepressants, as patients did not perceive them as ‘mental health drugs’ and therefore viewed them as potentially more acceptable and less stigmatising. Further, GPs viewed beta-blockers as ‘patient-led’, with patients managing their own dose and frequency, without GP input.ConclusionMany GPs believe that beta-blockers have a role to play in the management of anxiety. Given recent increases in the prescribing of these drugs in primary care, there is a need to assess their safety and effectiveness as a treatment for people with anxiety disorders. Full Article
vi Propranolol in anxiety: poor evidence for efficacy and toxicity in overdose By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 Full Article
vi Yonder: Improving connections, AI in reflective practice, lung cancer diagnosis, and euthanasia aftercare By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 Full Article
vi Primary care health professionals’ approach to clinical coding: a qualitative interview study By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 Full Article
vi Conversations matter: improving the diagnosis experience for people with type 2 diabetes By bjgp.org Published On :: 2024-10-31T16:05:26-07:00 Full Article
vi Improving Access to Disability Assessment for US Citizenship Applicants in Primary Care: An Embedded Neuropsychological Assessment Innovation [Innovations in Primary Care] By www.annfammed.org Published On :: 2024-09-23T14:00:14-07:00 Full Article
vi The Odyssey of HOMER: Comparative Effectiveness Research on Medication for Opioid Use Disorder During the COVID-19 Pandemic [Special Report] By www.annfammed.org Published On :: 2024-09-23T14:00:14-07:00 The usual challenges of conducting primary care research, including randomized trials, have been exacerbated, and new ones identified, during the COVID-19 pandemic. HOMER (Home versus Office for Medication Enhanced Recovery; subsequently, Comparing Home, Office, and Telehealth Induction for Medication Enhanced Recovery) is a pragmatic, comparative-effectiveness research trial that aims to answer a key question from patients and clinicians: What is the best setting in which to start treatment with buprenorphine for opioid use disorder for this patient at this time? In this article, we describe the difficult journey to find the answer. The HOMER study began as a randomized trial comparing treatment outcomes in patients starting treatment with buprenorphine via induction at home (unobserved) vs in the office (observed, synchronous). The study aimed to enroll 1,000 participants from 100 diverse primary care practices associated with the State Networks of Colorado Ambulatory Practices and Partners and the American Academy of Family Physicians National Research Network. The research team faced unexpected challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic and dramatic changes in the opioid epidemic. These challenges required changes to the study design, protocol, recruitment intensity, and funding conversations, as well as patience. As this is a participatory research study, we sought, documented, and responded to practice and patient requests for adaptations. Changes included adding a third study arm using telehealth induction (observed via telephone or video, synchronous) and switching to a comprehensive cohort design to answer meaningful patient-centered research questions. Using a narrative approach based on the Greek myth of Homer, we describe here the challenges and adaptations that have provided the opportunity for HOMER to thrive and find the way home. These clinical trial strategies may apply to other studies faced with similar cultural and extreme circumstances. Full Article
vi Chest Pain in Primary Care: A Systematic Review of Risk Stratification Tools to Rule Out Acute Coronary Syndrome [Systematic Review] By www.annfammed.org Published On :: 2024-09-23T14:00:14-07:00 PURPOSE Chest pain frequently poses a diagnostic challenge for general practitioners (GPs). Utilizing risk stratification tools might help GPs to rule out acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and make appropriate referral decisions. We conducted a systematic review of studies evaluating risk stratification tools for chest pain in primary care settings, both with and without troponin assays. Our aims were to assess the performance of tools for ruling out ACS and to provide a comprehensive review of the current evidence. METHODS We searched PubMed and Embase for articles up to October 9, 2023 concerning adult patients with acute chest pain in primary care settings, for whom risk stratification tools (clinical decision rules [CDRs] and/or single biomarker tests) were used. To identify eligible studies, a combination of active learning and backward snowballing was applied. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment (following the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool) were performed independently by 2 researchers. RESULTS Of the 1,204 studies screened, 14 were included in the final review. Nine studies validated 7 different CDRs without troponin. Sensitivities ranged from 75.0% to 97.0%, and negative predictive values (NPV) ranged from 82.4% to 99.7%. None of the CDRs outperformed the unaided judgment of GP’s. Five studies reported on strategies using troponin measurements. Studies using high-sensitivity troponin showed highest diagnostic accuracy with sensitivity 83.3% to 100% and NPV 98.8% to 100%. CONCLUSION Clinical decision rules without troponin and the use of conventional troponin showed insufficient sensitivity to rule out ACS in primary care and are not recommended as standalone tools. High-sensitivity troponin strategies are promising, but studies are limited. Further prospective validation in primary care is needed before implementation. Full Article
vi Evaluation of the Importance of Capsule Transparency in Dry Powder Inhalation Devices [Research Briefs] By www.annfammed.org Published On :: 2024-09-23T14:00:14-07:00 The aim of this work is to test whether the use of a transparent capsule affects the residual capsule weight after inhalation as a surrogate of the inhaled delivered dose for patients with non-reversible chronic airway disease. Researchers conducted an observational cross-sectional study with patients using a single-dose dry powder inhaler. The weight of the capsule was measured with a precision microbalance before and after inhalation. Ninety-one patients were included, of whom 63 (69.2%) used a transparent capsule. Inhalation with a transparent capsule achieved a weight decrease of 30.1% vs 8.6% for devices with an opaque capsule (P <0.001). These data reinforce the need to provide patients with mechanisms that verify the correct inhalation technique. Full Article
vi Family Medicine Resident Scholarly Activity Infrastructure, Output, and Dissemination: A CERA Survey [Original Research] By www.annfammed.org Published On :: 2024-09-23T14:00:14-07:00 PURPOSE Meeting scholarly activity requirements continues to be a challenge in many family medicine (FM) residency programs. Studies comprehensively describing FM resident scholarship have been limited. We sought to identify institutional factors associated with increased scholarly output and meeting requirements of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). OBJECTIVES Our goals were to: (1) describe scholarly activity experiences among FM residents compared with ACGME requirements; (2) classify experiences by Boyer’s domains of scholarship; and (3) associate experiences with residency program characteristics and scholarly activity infrastructure. METHODS This was a cross-sectional survey. The survey questions were part of an omnibus survey to FM residency program directors conducted by the Council of Academic Family Medicine Educational Research Alliance (CERA). All ACGME-accredited US FM residency program directors, identified by the Association of Family Medicine Residency Directors, were sampled. RESULTS Of the 691 eligible program directors, 298 (43%) completed the survey. The respondents reported that 25% or more residents exceeded ACGME minimum output, 17% reported that 25% or more residents published their work, and 50% reported that 25% or more residents delivered conference presentations. Programs exceeding ACGME scholarship requirements exhibit robust infrastructure characterized by access to faculty mentorship, scholarly activity curricula, Institutional Review Board, medical librarian, and statistician. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest the need for codified ACGME requirements for scholarly activity infrastructure to ensure access to resources in FM residency programs. By fostering FM resident engagement in scholarly activity, programs help to create a culture of inquiry, and address discrepancies in funding and output among FM residency programs. Full Article
vi Challenges in Receiving Care for Long COVID: A Qualitative Interview Study Among Primary Care Patients About Expectations and Experiences [Original Research] By www.annfammed.org Published On :: 2024-09-23T14:00:14-07:00 BACKGROUND For many patients with post–COVID-19 condition (long COVID), primary care is the first point of interaction with the health care system. In principle, primary care is well situated to manage long COVID. Beyond expressions of disempowerment, however, the patient’s perspective regarding the quality of long COVID care is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the expectations and experiences of primary care patients seeking treatment for long COVID. METHODS A phenomenological approach guided this analysis. Using purposive sampling, we conducted semistructured interviews with English-speaking, adult primary care patients describing symptoms of long COVID. We deidentified and transcribed the recorded interviews. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis. RESULTS This article reports results from 19 interviews (53% female, mean age = 54 years). Patients expected their primary care practitioners (PCPs) to be knowledgeable about long COVID, attentive to their individual condition, and to engage in collaborative processes for treatment. Patients described 2 areas of experiences. First, interactions with clinicians were perceived as positive when clinicians were honest and validating, and negative when patients felt dismissed or discouraged. Second, patients described challenges navigating the fragmented US health care system when coordinating care, treatment and testing, and payment. CONCLUSION Primary care patients’ experiences seeking care for long COVID are incongruent with their expectations. Patients must overcome barriers at each level of the health care system and are frustrated by the constant challenges. PCPs and other health care professionals might increase congruence with expectations and experiences through listening, validating, and advocating for patients with long COVID. Annals Early Access article Full Article
vi [Neuroscience] Reimagining Cortical Connectivity by Deconstructing Its Molecular Logic into Building Blocks By cshperspectives.cshlp.org Published On :: 2024-11-01T06:50:52-07:00 Comprehensive maps of neuronal connectivity provide a foundation for understanding the structure of neural circuits. In a circuit, neurons are diverse in morphology, electrophysiology, gene expression, activity, and other neuronal properties. Thus, constructing a comprehensive connectivity map requires associating various properties of neurons, including their connectivity, at cellular resolution. A commonly used approach is to use the gene expression profiles as an anchor to which all other neuronal properties are associated. Recent advances in genomics and anatomical techniques dramatically improved the ability to determine and associate the long-range projections of neurons with their gene expression profiles. These studies revealed unprecedented details of the gene–projection relationship, but also highlighted conceptual challenges in understanding this relationship. In this article, I delve into the findings and the challenges revealed by recent studies using state-of-the-art neuroanatomical and transcriptomic techniques. Building upon these insights, I propose an approach that focuses on understanding the gene–projection relationship through basic features in gene expression profiles and projections, respectively, that associate with underlying cellular processes. I then discuss how the developmental trajectories of projections and gene expression profiles create additional challenges and necessitate interrogating the gene–projection relationship across time. Finally, I explore complementary strategies that, together, can provide a comprehensive view of the gene–projection relationship. Full Article
vi Correction to "Validity of diagnoses of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Canadian administrative health data: a multiprovince, population-based cohort study" By www.cmajopen.ca Published On :: 2024-07-02T06:35:26-07:00 Full Article
vi Correction to "Opioid-related emergency department visits and deaths after a harm-reduction intervention: a retrospective observational cohort time series analysis" By www.cmajopen.ca Published On :: 2024-06-18T06:21:04-07:00 Full Article
vi Avis de deces pour octobre 2024 [Avis de décès] By www.cmaj.ca Published On :: 2024-11-11T21:05:15-08:00 Full Article
vi Management of central sleep apnoea: a review of non-hypercapnic causes By breathe.ersjournals.com Published On :: 2024-11-12T00:25:08-08:00 Central sleep apnoea (CSA) is characterised by recurrent episodes of airway cessation or reduction in the absence of respiratory effort. Although CSA is less common than obstructive sleep apnoea, it shares similar symptoms. CSA can be secondary to various medical conditions, high altitude and medication exposure. CSA can also emerge during obstructive sleep apnoea therapy. There are a range of treatment options and selecting the right therapy requires an understanding of the pathophysiology of CSA. This review explores the aetiology, pathophysiology and clinical management of non-hypercapnic CSA. Full Article
vi NASA’s Mars Rovers Are Having a Rough Time Out There By gizmodo.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:30:57 +0000 The two robots, working alone and far apart from one another, are struggling on their respective treks along the Red Planet's rough terrain. Full Article Space & Spaceflight curiosity rover Mars NASA Perseverance
vi Squid Game Season 2 Will Be All About Divisions—and the Fight to Overcome Them By gizmodo.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 01:00:24 +0000 Netflix's mega-violent mega-hit series returns December 26. Full Article Television Netflix Squid Game
vi Students can be agents of change: Talking about activism in universities with Jade Ho By rabble.ca Published On :: Fri, 03 Nov 2023 14:00:00 +0000 Jade Ho explains what is possible for university students when they are given opportunities to learn about –and get involved with– social justice and labour issues in their own communities. The post Students can be agents of change: Talking about activism in universities with Jade Ho appeared first on rabble.ca. Full Article Anti-racism Education Political Action activism universities
vi Edmonton activist protests climate crisis with demonstration in AB legislature By rabble.ca Published On :: Fri, 03 Nov 2023 18:57:32 +0000 There has been fallout. Speaker Nathan Cooper is said to have decreed guests will never again be seated inside the legislative chamber. The post Edmonton activist protests climate crisis with demonstration in AB legislature appeared first on rabble.ca. Full Article Canadian Politics Environment Alberta politics
vi Saving Palestinian lives will save Israeli lives By rabble.ca Published On :: Fri, 03 Nov 2023 20:05:29 +0000 So far, the Israeli leadership seems unmoved by U.S. President Biden’s quiet suggestions for a pause in hostilities in Gaza. The post Saving Palestinian lives will save Israeli lives appeared first on rabble.ca. Full Article Human Rights World Politics gaza Israel Palestine
vi Dual boss battle: video game workers face-off multiple employers at once By rabble.ca Published On :: Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:39:06 +0000 Video game workers face challenges from employers in their efforts to unionize in Canada. The post Dual boss battle: video game workers face-off multiple employers at once appeared first on rabble.ca. Full Article Labour video games
vi Deepfakes and gender based violence By rabble.ca Published On :: Tue, 07 Nov 2023 18:39:49 +0000 Deepfakes can be close to indistinguishable from authentic video, and are now being used to perpetrate gender based abuse. The post Deepfakes and gender based violence appeared first on rabble.ca. Full Article Feminism Human Rights Deepfakes gender based violence Woman Abuse Prevention Month
vi South Sudan civil war causes Africa’s worst refugee crisis By www.pbs.org Published On :: Sun, 15 Oct 2017 19:26:17 +0000 Watch Video | Listen to the AudioThe United Nations says South Sudan’s four-year-old civil war has left half of the nation’s population — 6 million people — in need of humanitarian aid. The conflict began when South Sudan’s army split between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and former Vice President Riek Machar. The two men mobilized their respective tribes, the Dinka and the Nuer. The war has caused what is now one of the world’s worst refugee crises. SIMONA FOLTYN: Civil war is emptying huge swaths of South Sudan. The violence has uprooted four million people, including two million who’ve fled to neighboring countries. In the last year, more than a million South Sudanese have poured into northern Uganda alone, crossing makeshift bridges like this one to flee fighting, hunger, and brutal attacks on civilians. SEME LUPAI, REFUGEE: They started fighting very, very severely. So that made us to escape with our properties to this side. SIMONA FOLTYN: When Seme Lupai’s family went to one of the refugee camps, initially, he stayed behind to look after the family’s most precious commodity — their cattle. He hid for a year to escape the violence. The refugees carry whatever they can salvage — mattresses, pots, clothes, notebooks — remnants of once peaceful lives turned upside down. At checkpoints, Ugandan soldiers search their belongings for weapons, before the refugees proceed to reception centers. After entering Uganda, the refugees sign in at small waystations. For many, it’s the first night spent in safety after walking for days to escape fighting. Levi Arike fled with his wife and four children. LEVI ARIKE, REFUGEE: When the gunshots started, we laid under a tree with the whole family, because there was nowhere else to hide. We waited for the fighting to stop, and then we got up and started walking to Uganda. SIMONA FOLTYN: Uganda now shoulders most of the burden of Africa’s biggest refugee crisis, managing a constellation of camps which require food, water, healthcare, and policing. At Imvepi Camp, now home to more than 120,000 South Sudanese, new arrivals receive vaccinations, hot meals, and basic items such as soap and plastic tarps to build a house. The government also gives each refugee family a small plot of land, about a twentieth of an acre, where they can build a tent shelter and grow crops to eat or sell. But the land often proves too rocky for farming. SIMONA FOLTYN, IMVEPI REFUGEE CAMP, NORTHERN UGANDA: After completing the registration process, the new arrivals will receive their plot, to start a new life as refugees in Uganda. While they are safe here, there are many challenges ahead, not least processing the trauma of what they experienced back home. This woman, who we’ll call “Agnes,” agreed to tell us about her harrowing experience. She says four government soldiers from President Salva Kiir’s Dinka tribe stopped her as she was fleeing South Sudan and raped her right in front of her family. AGNES (translated to English): When they started raping me, they told me not to raise alarm, otherwise they would shoot me. Still when I’m sleeping, I’m dreaming of the Dinka, that they are coming to rape me again. SIMONA FOLTYN: How often do you have those dreams? AGNES: Daily, every time I lie down, those dreams come. SIMONA FOLTYN: A recent Human Rights Watch report on South Sudan found “…a clear pattern of government forces unlawfully targeting civilians for killings, rapes, torture…and destruction of property..” The victims are from ethnic groups suspected to support the rebels. AGNES: They are doing it, because they know very well that those soldiers are our brothers. So they do it to punish them.. SIMONA FOLTYN: Although the rebels, known as the Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition, purport to protect local communities, there are also reports of their fighters assaulting civilians near the Ugandan border. Josephine Yanya told us she didn’t feel safe in the presence of either side’s soldiers. Her family and neighbors fled their village after government soldiers killed her uncle. They hid in the mountains only to find themselves under attack again, this time by opposition fighters from the Nuer tribe loyal to former vice president Riek Machar. Yanya says ethnic Nuer soldiers from the SPLA-IO rebel group raped a member of her group and stole her father’s’ cattle. JOSEPHINE YANYA (translated to English): Before we were thinking that the rebels would protect us, but if they are lacking food, they just come and take things by force. SIMONA FOLTYN: With nowhere left to hide, Yanya fled to Uganda with her son. But instead of finding a place to rebuild their lives, they are in limbo. And aid groups don’t have enough food to distribute. JOSEPHINE YANYA (translated to English):We are getting small food rations. I know it won’t be enough even for one month. SIMONA FOLTYN: According to the United Nations, the international community has given less than a-third of the $1.4 billion dollars needed for the refugee response in South Sudan’s neighboring countries. These refugees foresee more hardship and have no idea when they might return home. JOSEPHINE YANYA (translated to English): I’m always praying for peace in South Sudan, and until then, I’ll just stay here. The post South Sudan civil war causes Africa’s worst refugee crisis appeared first on PBS NewsHour. Full Article africa NewsHour Weekend refugee crisis South Sudan
vi 'Systematic racism' in social work in Scotland to be addressed in review after report By www.heraldscotland.com Published On :: Mon, 11 Nov 2024 15:23:47 +0000 A national review of social work in Scotland has been launched in a bid to address ‘systemic racism’ within the sector. Full Article
vi New research to better understand the biological factors of suicidal behaviour By www.heraldscotland.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Nov 2024 06:30:00 +0000 New research to better understand the biological factors of suicidal behaviour Researchers at the University of Glasgow are embarking on two new PhD projects to better understand the impact that biological factors may have on suicidal behaviour. Full Article
vi First new homes on Scottish town's high street 'in living memory' By www.heraldscotland.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Nov 2024 04:30:00 +0000 The flats are described as the first new homes on the Scottish town's High Street 'in living memory' Full Article
vi New direct rail service to link Edinburgh and Wales for the first time By www.heraldscotland.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:36:29 +0000 A rail service linking Scotland, Wales and England with one train journey is to start running for the first time. Full Article
vi Campaigners 'fear' for Argyll and Bute tourism as they warn against visitor levy By www.heraldscotland.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Nov 2024 14:44:18 +0000 Campaigners in Argyll and Bute are demanding a proposed tourist tax is rejected when it goes to a council vote next month. Full Article
vi RPG Cast – Episode 696: “Have You Met Video Game Fans?” By rpgamer.com Published On :: Sat, 21 Oct 2023 20:46:52 +0000 Josh explains that all Genesis music is bad. Robert only has sub-standards for video games. Chris arm-chair quarterbacks the Persona 3 remake. Not the ramp! The post RPG Cast – Episode 696: “Have You Met Video Game Fans?” appeared first on RPGamer. Full Article News Podcasts RPG Cast Crystar Final Fantasy V Mary Skelter 2 Path of Exile Sea of Stars Starfield
vi Interview: 404.zero By www.factmag.com Published On :: Fri, 29 Mar 2024 13:41:22 +0000 Audiovisual pioneers Kristina Karpysheva and Alexandr Letsius on creating colossal, mind-bending installations. The post Interview: 404.zero appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Magazine Featured Top 404.zero
vi Interview: Lyra Pramuk By www.factmag.com Published On :: Fri, 05 Apr 2024 14:11:31 +0000 Lyra Pramuk on how collaboration, space and healing are central to her live performance. The post Interview: Lyra Pramuk appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Magazine Featured Stories Featured Top
vi The Vinyl Factory celebrates art and sound with immersive exhibition at 180 Studios By www.factmag.com Published On :: Thu, 11 Apr 2024 10:32:56 +0000 REVERB features 17 audiovisual installations including new works by Es Devlin and Theaster Gates, plus Devon Turnbull's Listening Room. The post The Vinyl Factory celebrates art and sound with immersive exhibition at 180 Studios appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Exhibitions
vi Interview: Freeka Tet By www.factmag.com Published On :: Fri, 19 Apr 2024 12:23:08 +0000 Taking a hacker’s approach to create playful, subversive works of music and visual art. The post Interview: Freeka Tet appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Magazine Freeka Tet
vi Interview: Tschabalala Self By www.factmag.com Published On :: Fri, 03 May 2024 11:51:45 +0000 On heritage, identity, and what it means and looks like to be a practicing artist today. The post Interview: Tschabalala Self appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Magazine Tschabalala Self
vi Interview: Gabriel Massan & LYZZA By www.factmag.com Published On :: Fri, 10 May 2024 10:08:18 +0000 World-building, identity and decolonising spaces in the digital and offline realms. The post Interview: Gabriel Massan & LYZZA appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Magazine Lyzza Gabriel Massan
vi Interview: Jeremy Deller By www.factmag.com Published On :: Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:58:13 +0000 Deller on politics, music and his film Everybody in the Place, now showing at The Vinyl Factory's Reverb exhibition. The post Interview: Jeremy Deller appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Exhibitions Featured Stories Featured Top Jeremy Deller Reverb sticky2
vi The Vinyl Factory: Reverb exhibition extended until 22 December By www.factmag.com Published On :: Wed, 18 Sep 2024 12:18:58 +0000 Reverb features new works by Es Devlin and Theaster Gates, plus Devon Turnbull's Listening Room. The post The Vinyl Factory: Reverb exhibition extended until 22 December appeared first on Fact Magazine. Full Article Exhibitions Featured Stories Featured Top Reverb
vi Musical chairs on Virgin board By www.theaustralian.com.au Published On :: Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:00:00 GMT Richard Branson’s Virgin Group has swapped out its envoy on Virgin Australia’s board, putting in Warwick Negus. Full Article
vi Aviation’s achievers set to soar By www.theaustralian.com.au Published On :: Fri, 06 Jan 2017 13:00:00 GMT Up to 700 international competitors and crew will flock to Benalla as the event returns to Australia after 30 years. Full Article
vi Young diners not lovin’ it By www.theaustralian.com.au Published On :: Mon, 25 Aug 2014 21:40:00 GMT MCDONALD’S revenues have slumped and there’s one key reason: Millennials aren’t Maccas fans, choosing fresher, healthier food instead. Full Article
vi Take-Two CEO is Not Worried About Grand Theft Auto VI Performance on Xbox Series S By www.vgchartz.com Published On :: Fri, 08 Nov 2024 16:22:38 GMT Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick in the company's latest earnings report said he isn't worried about Rockstar getting Grand Theft Auto VI to run on the Xbox Series S. "Look, we support the platforms where the consumers are for as long as they’re there, and we find a way to support platforms despite different levels of tech," said Zelnick (via VideoGamesChronicle) when asked about the Xbox Series S. Zelnick added, "Our labels are really good at that. I’m not really worried. I’ve never worried about where hardware was going. And I’ve said this many times over the years because, first of all, I don’t worry about things over which I have zero control. "Secondly, I believe in the audience. The audience is going to show up if you have great properties, and so we just have to make sure to be on an array of platforms." Zelnick added PC is an important platform to release games on, despite the fact Grand Theft Auto VI has not been announced for PC. "If one platform diminishes in value, there’s always another one," he said. "So we’re seeing great growth in PC right now, for example. And I have been able to view that open formats would continue to grow. PC is an open format. "I do think PC will continue to be a more and more important part of the console business going forward, and that isn’t complicated for us to support at all. So the bottom line is we are selective about which platforms we support. We make the tech work when we can make it work as long as the audience is big enough to make that worthwhile." Grand Theft Auto VI will launch for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in Fall 2025. A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can contact the author on Twitter @TrunksWD.Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/463023/take-two-ceo-is-not-worried-about-grand-theft-auto-vi-performance-on-xbox-series-s/ Full Article Analysis Charts Industry
vi South of Midnight Gets 30-Minute 'Weaving Hazel's Journey' Documentary By www.vgchartz.com Published On :: Tue, 12 Nov 2024 16:08:50 GMT Publisher Xbox Game Studios and developer Compulsion Games have released a 30-minute long documentary on for South of Midnight titled "Weaving Hazel's Journey." The video share a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming third-person action-adventure game. It explores the development and world building, as well as providing a look at new gameplay. View the documentary below: South of Midnight will launch for the Xbox Series X|S, PC via Steam and Microsoft Store, and Xbox Game Pass in 2025. A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can contact the author on Twitter @TrunksWD.Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/463044/south-of-midnight-gets-30-minute-weaving-hazels-journey-documentary/ Full Article Analysis Charts Industry