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Saline permafrost exists beneath shallow shelf seas, coastal plains shaped by past marine transgressions, and post-glacially uplifted landscapes that were once submerged. Salinity influences the freezing point and mechanical strength of permafrost; it is, therefore, a critical parameter for assessing its stability. On Svalbard, the Kvadehuksletta region northwest of Ny-Ålesund features a diverse landscape comprising raised beach terraces, lagoons, paleo-lagoons (now lakes), and surface seeps. Our research aims to decipher how marine sediments transform after emergence. We hypothesize that ice formation during permafrost aggradation produces a porewater salinity gradient that triggers the downwards migration of salt in slowly uplifting sediments that are weakly susceptible to groundwater flushing. Sufficient salt build-up may lead to the formation of cryopegs. Cryopegs, a type of talik, are unfrozen layers or pockets within permafrost that persist at subzero temperatures due to their elevated salt content. In summer 2024 and 2025, we carried out several electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) profiles, including three profiles (ranging from 800 to 2300 m in length) perpendicular to the coastline. The westernmost profile (collected in 2025) intersected a dynamic lagoon that was connected to the sea in 2024 but became completely cut off in 2025 by storm-surge deposits. To help delineate frozen and unfrozen permafrost conditions, electrical resistivity-temperature analyses of field samples collected from shallow cores (down to 2.5 m) are currently underway. Laboratory tests indicate that the near-surface marine clays adjacent to the lagoon have low resistivities (< 10 Ωm) when thawed and freezing point temperatures down to -1.6 °C. The field samples are also being analysed for porewater chemistry (electrical conductivity, cations & anions, pH, stable water isotopes) and basic sedimentological properties like grain size. At two coring sites (1 paleo-lagoon, 1 beach setting), an annual ground temperature time series was also collected between field seasons. While the physical and electrical properties of the marine sediments are important to establish, so is their thickness. To potentially provide additional information on the depth to bedrock along selected ERT profile segments, we conducted multiple seismic refraction tomography (SRT) surveys (115 m length) in 2025 using a sledgehammer as an energy source. The synthesis of all datasets to describe uplifted permafrost is work in progress, but preliminary conclusions suggest that cryopeg occurrence is most likely in low-lying coastal areas characterized by warm permafrost, occasional seawater submergence, and saline marine clays with low hydraulic conductivity.

ABSTRACT Background and Purpose Chronic pain affects approximately 63% of people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), contributing to fatigue, depression, anxiety, poor sleep, reduced quality of life, and cognitive decline. Within the biopsychosocial model, music therapy has emerged as a promising intervention to address these complex symptoms. This study aims to examine the effects of heart rate‐synchronized music therapy combined with motor imagery practice on pain, autonomic and cognitive functions, and psychosocial outcomes in patients with pwMS. We hypothesize that the combined intervention will lead to greater improvements than music therapy alone or routine care. Methods A double‐blind, randomized, and three‐arm parallel trial will be conducted with 45 patients with pwMS experiencing chronic pain. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) heart rate‐synchronized music therapy combined with motor imagery, (2) heart rate‐synchronized music therapy alone, or (3) a control group receiving routine care. Interventions will be delivered twice weekly for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 20–30 min. The experimental groups will receive music therapy via videoconferencing. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post‐intervention (week 8), and follow‐up (week 12). The primary outcome is pain intensity. Secondary outcomes include neuropathic pain, central sensitization, heart rate variability, anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep quality, quality of life, and cognitive function. Sample size was calculated using G*Power; HRV data will be analyzed with Kubios software. Statistical analyses will be performed using SPSS and GraphPad Prism 10. Results Following randomization, baseline data will be collected. Blinded assessors will evaluate all outcomes at follow‐up points. An independent researcher will perform statistical analyses to assess changes across time and between groups. Discussion This study may provide evidence supporting a novel, non‐pharmacological, and telehealth‐compatible intervention for chronic pain in pwMS. Trial Registration NCT06800144, 24th January 2025

Anyone who has sat in a cramped economy-class airplane seat knows that physical constraints in one’s immediate surroundings can meaningfully shape service experiences. These constraints differ from those found in shared spaces such as crowded retail stores, where limited room arises from high human density rather than fixed structural boundaries. Despite their prevalence, such individual spatial constraints in various service settings have received little attention in consumer research. To address this gap, this research introduces and explores the phenomenon of spatial captivity, defined as perceived physical limitations on an individual’s free movement in the immediate material surroundings. Using a multimethod approach—including field data, surveys, and experiments across diverse service contexts—the authors examine the nature and consequences of spatial captivity. While it generally exerts a negative effect on customer satisfaction, this effect is counteracted in the presence of psychological threats, where feelings of protection induced by spatial captivity can positively influence customer satisfaction. These results have implications for consumers, managers, and policy makers as they attempt to manage and navigate physical space limitations.

BackgroundImpaired integrin activation on neutrophils is the hallmark of leukocyte adhesion deficiency syndrome in humans, characterized by reduced leukocyte recruitment. The regulation of intracellular calcium levels in neutrophils is important for cellular processes; however, the exact role of store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) and the involvement of stromal interaction molecule (STIM) calcium sensors, and ORAI1-3 calcium channels in neutrophil activation and recruitment is unknown.MethodsUsing an acute kidney injury (AKI) model, intravital microscopy, and biochemical studies, we examined the molecular mechanisms of Ca2+-regulated neutrophil activation and recruitment.ResultsWe demonstrate that STIM1 and ORAI1 in neutrophils are selectively required for E-selectin- and CXCL-1-, but not P-selectin-mediated activation of the β2-integrin CD11a and neutrophil recruitment. Surprisingly, we did not detect an impact of STIM and ORAI isoform expression on neutrophil CD11b activation. Using a clinically relevant murine AKI model, we point out that STIM1- and ORAI1-deficiency in neutrophils prevents neutrophil recruitment into the kidney during sterile inflammation.ConclusionThus, we uncover stimulus specific integrin regulation in neutrophils as a critical determinant of an adequate immune response and pinpoint the clinical relevance of STIM1 and ORAI1.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-026-02666-w.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), the rise of mega‐journals, and the manipulation of impact factors present challenges to scientific integrity. These trends threaten the core principles of objectivity, reproducibility, and transparency. This editorial highlights two categories of threats: (1) external pressures, such as AI misuse and metric‐driven publishing models, and (2) internal systemic flaws, including the ‘publish or perish’ culture and methodological fragility. Mega‐journals, characterized by high‐volume publishing and broad interdisciplinary scopes, improve accessibility and accelerate dissemination. However, the emphasis on publication volume might weaken the rigor of peer review. To navigate these challenges, the authors propose a balanced approach that harnesses innovation without compromising scientific integrity. Proposed solutions include mandating AI transparency through frameworks like CONSORT‐AI, and redefining impact metrics to emphasize reproducibility, mentorship, and societal impact alongside citations. Scientific journals should promote career opportunities less on publication quantity and more on quality. Global cooperation, via initiatives like the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) and the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), is essential to standardize ethics and address resource disparities. This editorial proposes solutions for researchers, journals, and policymakers to realign academic incentives and uphold the ethical foundation of the science. By fostering transparency, accountability, and equity, the scientific community can preserve its ethical foundations while embracing transformative tools—ultimately advancing knowledge and serving society.Level of EvidenceLevel V.

BackgroundThe demographic change in Germany leads to an increased number of centenarians. Within this population fragility fractures, such as the proximal humeral fracture (PHF), are not well investigated. This study aims to evaluate the epidemiology, treatment and outcome after a PHF in patients ≥ 100 years of age in Germany.MethodsRetrospective claims data of the BARMER health insurance were analyzed. All in- and outpatient cases of insurance holders ≥ 65 years from 01/2011 to 09/2022, with coded diagnosis of PHF were analyzed. The patients aged 65–99 years were used as a comparison group for the centenarians. Primary endpoints were overall survival, major adverse events (MAEs) and thrombo-embolic events.ResultsIn total, 100,482 patients with PHF were included in the study, with 230 aged 100 years and older. Centenarians with a PHF were more often female with several age-associated comorbidities, but less life-style associated risk factors. Centenarians were less often treated surgically. The outcome after PHF was worse with increasing age, 59.2% of the centenarians died one year after the PHF.ConclusionThe majority of centenarians sustaining a proximal humeral fracture was female. The most common treatment was the non-operative therapy. Nevertheless, also the operative therapy is associated with a low complication rate. As expected, the mortality rate is high, with almost 60% of deceased patients after one year. It remains unclear, if the mortality was related to proximal humeral fractures.Level of evidenceLevel III, retrospective comparative study.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-025-06820-w.

Summary Neutrophil swarming has emerged as a conserved multicellular behaviour observed across tissues and pathological contexts. Yet, the molecular cues and the spatially coordinated cellular circuits that drive the process of neutrophil swarming leading to cluster formation remain poorly understood. Here, we combine spatial proteomics and lipid profiling in a model of urinary tract infection to define the epithelial-immune circuits driving neutrophil cluster formation. We identify thrombospondin-1 (TSP1)-mediated activation of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) as key epithelial signal licensing neutrophil clustering and enhancing bacterial control. Spatial lipid analysis further reveals that TSP1/TGF-β1 signalling locally activates arachidonic acid metabolism in epithelial neutrophils, with 5-lipoxygenase dependent leukotriene synthesis required for swarm formation and infection clearance. These findings uncover a spatially coordinated defence mechanism in which epithelial-derived TSP1/TGF-β1 engages neutrophil lipid metabolism to orchestrate neutrophil swarming behaviour and reinforce antibacterial immunity. Abstract Figure Graphical abstract

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsGender‐diverse adolescents—those whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth or who do not conform to traditional binary gender norms—are at significantly higher risk for mental health issues, including suicidality and non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI). However, most prevention efforts remain focused on cisgender youth. This study aims to directly compare levels of emotional dysregulation, depressive symptoms, suicidality, and NSSI between gender‐diverse adolescents and their cisgender peers to inform gender‐sensitive prevention strategies.MethodsThis cross‐sectional analysis was conducted in a school‐based sample with participants aged 8–15 years. Gender identity was self‐reported through self‐categorization using a single item with three response options (female, male, diverse). Emotional dysregulation (DERS‐SF), depressive symptoms (PHQ‐9), suicidality (PSS), and NSSI (DSHI‐9) were assessed. Group comparisons between gender‐diverse adolescents (n = 13), female‐identifying adolescents (n = 1102), and male‐identifying adolescents (n = 1045) were performed using Mann‐Whitney U, Fisher's exact, and χ² tests with Bonferroni‐adjusted p‐values.ResultsCompared to female‐identifying and male‐identifying adolescents, gender‐diverse adolescents showed significantly higher emotional dysregulation (vs. females: p < 0.001; vs. males: p < 0.001) and depressive symptom severity (vs. females: p < 0.001; vs. males: p < 0.001). Recent suicidality (past two weeks) was markedly elevated in gender‐diverse youth (vs. females: p < 0.001; vs. males: p < 0.001), although lifetime suicidality did not differ significantly. NSSI behaviors were consistently more severe in the gender‐diverse group, with significantly higher lifetime prevalence, greater frequency, and a broader range of methods (all comparisons p < 0.001 vs. both comparison groups).ConclusionGender‐diverse adolescents exhibit substantially higher levels of emotional and behavioral distress compared to both female‐identifying and male‐identifying adolescents. These findings highlight the urgent need for inclusive mental health screening and targeted prevention programs that address the distinct psychological profiles and elevated risks within gender‐diverse youth populations.

Abstract The observation of low viscosity lava flows and shield volcanoes on radar images, combined with X‐ray fluorescence analyses performed by Soviet landers, strongly suggests that Venus's crust is primarily basaltic. However, near‐infrared emissivity data from the Galileo and Venus Express missions indicate that crustal plateaus may be compositionally distinct and contain higher proportions of felsic minerals than the surrounding plains. The hypothesis that these highlands are felsic has led to suggestions of past oceans on Venus, as the generation of such rocks on Earth typically requires significant amounts of water. We use thermodynamic modeling to explore the conditions under which silica‐rich melts can form without water, through deep melting of basaltic crust in thickened crustal roots or during crustal recycling in the mantle. Felsic melts containing 60–65 wt.% can form at depths 60 km. In regions of thickened crust, such melts would be produced along a thermal gradient of 10 K/km, whereas for higher gradients (15 K/km), melting occurs at depths where quartz is not yet present (50 km), resulting in silica‐poor melts. The presence of small amounts of water allows similar felsic melts (in composition and volume) to form at moderately shallower depths (40 km). Our results indicate that large volumes of felsic melt could form even under anhydrous conditions on Venus, via crustal thickening or recycling mechanisms such as subduction or lithospheric dripping. This supports the idea that part of Venus's highlands could be the product of remelted basaltic crust, regardless of whether surface water existed in the past.

Disclosure: M. Zitzmann: None. C. Krallmann: None. J. Cremers: None. S. Kliesch: None. S. Bier: None.The relevance of fertility and sexual wellbeing in aging men is rising. Notwithstanding, little is known especially about the fertility of healthy aging men. There are reports about a decline in ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, and normal morphology with age. Functional hypogonadism—characterized by low testosterone, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and fatigue—is also well-documented, especially in men with poor metabolic health or diabetes mellitus.Question: Do reproductive functions, parameters of sexuality and levels of sex hormones decline in healthy aging men, and are there predictors for such changes? Design: Longitundal observational study. In 2014, we recruited 200 healthy men (no history of cancer, cardiovascular events, diabetes mellitus). In 2020, 117 participants returned for follow-up evaluations, allowing longitudinal analysis of above named parameters and influencing factors using linear regression models. Participants/MethodsParameters of healthy men aged 18–85 at baseline were compared utilizing 2-level linear mixed regression models. Assessments included semen analysis according to WHO standards, sex hormone profiling (LH, FSH, SHBG, total and free testosterone), and metabolic assessments. Participants completed validated questionnaires on erectile function (IIEF-EF) and aging-male symptoms (AMS score).Results: Within the total cohort, hormone levels remained within normal range, albeit serum concentrations of total and free testosterone decreased in those men exhibiting an increment in BMI (p=0.004, p=0.002) or HbA1c (p=0.003, p=0.001). Semen parameters (volume, total sperm count, concentration, vitality) remained within normal ranges without significant changes. However, progressive sperm motility declined significantly in participants over 65 years (p=0.002), this being associated with increases in HbA1c (p=0.008, of which total values remained all below 6.5%). EF exhibited a decline in participants older than 45 years (p=0.001), albeit only in men exhibiting increases of HbA1c (p=0.002), while shifts in total or free testosterone (p=0.52, p=0.47) were not associated with EF. AMS-scores, and their sexual subdomain (loss of libido), were significantly affected by decreasing levels total or free testosterone (p=0.04, p=0.003), this being an effect of increasing HbA1c levels (p=0.002) but not ageing as such (p=0.57).Conclusion: In healthy ageing men without developing diabetes mellitus, increases of HbA1c appear to influence sexual wellbeing and sperm motility. However, healthy men without deterioration of the metabolic state experience minimal declines in fertility, sexual wellbeing and sex hormone levels with age.Presentation: Saturday, July 12, 2025