bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neither climate laboratory nor knowledge vacuum: What’s at stake for the Global South in the debate around solar geoengineering research
Authors: Mutiso Rose M.
Published: November 2024

Recently, I
sat in a room in Cape Town with African climate scientists
, watching them present results from sophisticated models examining how solar geoengineering interventions might affect local weather patterns across the continent. These researchers, primarily climate impact modelers who have expanded their work to include solar geoengineering scenarios, were doing exactly what critics claim the Global South lacks capacity for: producing rigorous, locally relevant climate science.
Children are left behind in Congo’s mpox vaccination drive
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: November 2024

Regulatory and liability issues are delaying immunization of the group most vulnerable to severe disease and death
Anaesthesia for hybrid revascularisation and valve replacement in a high-risk patient
Authors: Li Jiele , Ferraz-Costa Gonçalo , Santos Pedro , Gonçalves Joana
Published: November 2024

Hybrid procedures offer a promising solution for complex cases where open surgery is high risk, relying on the collaboration of anaesthesiologists, cardiac surgeons and interventional cardiologists. We present a male patient in his 70s with severe aortic stenosis, coronary artery disease, ascending aortic aneurysm and heart failure who underwent a hybrid cardiac procedure, including transcatheter aortic valve implantation, percutaneous coronary intervention of the right coronary artery and coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Through this hybrid intervention, involving a minimally invasive transcatheter and an open surgical procedure, the patient remained haemodynamically stable with minimal blood loss. 6 months postprocedure, he showed significant improvement in daily activities, aided by consistent physical therapy and cardiac check-ups. Current literature supports the hybrid approach for optimising risk-benefit outcomes, though further research is needed to define precise indications for its use.
Transient global amnesia predisposed by rizatriptan and temazepam
Authors: Sanders Taylor , Szeto Chun Ho , Parepalli Divya , Garcia-Fernandez Alejandra
Published: November 2024

Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a perplexing neurological condition primarily affecting older adults, characterised by the acute onset of anterograde amnesia. Patients remain oriented to self and symptoms resolve within 24 hours. Before diagnosing TGA, conditions such as transient ischaemic attack and stroke must be excluded. We present a case of a woman in her 60’s who experienced acute onset memory impairment and confusion after taking rizatriptan for migraine and temazepam for insomnia the previous night. Initially treated as an acute ischaemic stroke with tissue plasminogen activator, a thorough neurological examination eventually led to a diagnosis of TGA after other potential causes were ruled out. This case suggests that the combined use of triptans and benzodiazepines may predispose patients to TGA. It also highlights the importance of differentiating TGA from other cerebrovascular diseases in order to reduce patients’ exposure to the thrombolytic agent and the cost of hospitalisation.
Review on the update in obesity management: epidemiology
Authors: Peri Katya , Eisenberg Mark
Published: November 2024

Obesity remains one of the largest public health issues in the developed world. Over the past 50 years, the prevalence of this disease has risen to epidemic proportions and remains on the rise. Importantly, the incidence of obesity coincides with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnoea and several cancers. This article is the first of a three-part series of reviews surveying the obesity epidemic and interventions to address it. It provides an overview of the disease’s prevalence, aetiology and comorbidities as well as the guidelines currently available to treat obesity. Obesity is a multifactorial disease with a complex aetiology. Genetic, environmental and epigenetic factors contribute to the occurrence of obesity. Examples include the thrifty gene hypothesis, epigenetics and the presence of obesogenic environments. Furthermore, an imbalance in energy intake versus expenditure encourages weight gain. Current guidelines aim to instruct primary care practitioners on the appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic tools to use in patients with obesity. Obesity remains an important public health concern with many causes, influences and outcomes for patients.
Genetic variation at 11q23.1 confers colorectal cancer risk by dysregulation of colonic tuft cell transcriptional activatorPOU2AF2
Authors: Rajasekaran Vidya , Harris Bradley T , Osborn Ruby T , Smillie Claire , Donnelly Kevin , Bacou Marion , Esiri-Bloom Edward , Ooi Li-Yin , Allan Morven , Walker Marion , Reid Stuart , Meynert Alison , Grimes Graeme , Blackmur James P , Vaughan-Shaw Peter G , Law Philip J , Fernández-Rozadilla Ceres , Tomlinson Ian , Houlston Richard S , Myant Kevin B , Din Farhat VN , Timofeeva Maria , Dunlop Malcolm G , Farrington Susan M
Published: November 2024

Background

Common genetic variation at 11q23.1 is associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, exerting local expression quantitative trait locus (cis-eQTL) effects onPOU2AF2,COLCA1andPOU2AF3genes. However, complex linkage disequilibrium and correlated expression has hindered elucidation of the mechanisms by which genetic variants impart underlying CRC risk.

Objective

Undertake an interdisciplinary approach to understand how variation at 11q23.1 locus imparts CRC risk.

Design

We employ analysis of RNA sequencing, single-cell RNA sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and single-cell ATAC sequencing data to identify, prioritise and characterise the genes that contribute to CRC risk. We further validate these findings using mouse models and demonstrate parallel effects in human colonic mucosa.

Results

We establish rs3087967 as a prime eQTL variant at 11q23.1, colocalising with CRC risk. Furthermore, rs3087967 influences expression of 21 distant genes, thereby acting as a trans-eQTL hub for a gene-set highly enriched for tuft cell markers. Epigenomic analysis implicates POU2AF2 as controlling the tuft cell-specific trans-genes, through POU2F3-correlated genomic regulation. Immunofluorescence confirms rs3087967 risk genotype (T) to be associated with a tuft cell deficit in the human colon. CRISPR-mediated deletion of the 11q23.1 risk locus genes in the mouse germline exacerbated theApcMin/+mouse phenotype on abrogation ofPou2af2expression specifically.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that genotype at rs3087967 controls a portfolio of genes through misregulation ofPOU2AF2. POU2AF2is the primary transcriptional activator of tuft cells with a tumour suppressive role in mouse models. We therefore implicate tuft cells as having a key tumour-protective role in the large bowel epithelium.
Cutaneous phosphorylated-synuclein: an early diagnostic biomarker for pure autonomic failure
Authors: Koay Shiwen , Provitera Vincenzo , Caporaso Giuseppe , Vichayanrat Ekawat , Valerio Fernanda , Stancanelli Annamaria , Borreca Ilaria , Lunn Michael P , Nolano Maria , Iodice Valeria
Published: November 2024

Background

Pure autonomic failure (PAF) presents with progressive autonomic failure without other neurological features. Atypical presentations may lead to diagnostic uncertainty. We studied whether cutaneous phosphorylated-alpha-synuclein (p-syn) could distinguish between PAF, multiple system atrophy (MSA) and non-synucleinopathy-related autonomic failure, and examined its relationship with quantitative markers of cardiovascular autonomic failure.

Methods

All individuals underwent Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31 autonomic questionnaires, cardiovascular autonomic testing and bilateral distal leg skin biopsies. We noted whether p-syn was present in nerves supplying autonomic adnexa, including sweat glands, blood vessels, arrector pili muscles, and subepidermal fibres, dermal fibres and nerve fascicles (maximum autonomic subscore 3, total p-syn score 6 for each sample, average calculated for both sides).

Results

36 individuals were studied: 11 PAF, 13 MSA and 12 non-synucleinopathy-related autonomic failure. P-syn was present in 22/22 (100%) PAF biopsies, 19/26 (73%) MSA biopsies and 0/22 (0%) non-synucleinopathy biopsies. Mean total p-syn score was significantly higher in PAF compared with MSA (median 4.5 vs 1, p<0.001). Total p-syn score >3 distinguished PAF from MSA with 100% specificity and 82% sensitivity. Autonomic p-syn subscores correlated with orthostatic intolerance ratio on tilt (ρ=0.63, p=0.0004), blood pressure recovery time following Valsalva manoeuvre (r=0.44, p=0.03) and patient-reported orthostatic intolerance (ρ=0.57, p=0.006).

Conclusion

Cutaneous p-syn was abundant in PAF, a predominantly peripheral alpha-synucleinopathy. It is a promising biomarker to help distinguish between PAF, MSA and non-synucleinopathy-related autonomic failure to aid early diagnosis and recruitment to future clinical trials. P-syn deposition on autonomic nerves may impair control of total peripheral resistance giving rise to symptomatic orthostatic hypotension.
End of life care in paediatric settings: UK national survey
Authors: Bedendo Andre , Papworth Andrew , Beresford Bryony , Phillips Bob , Vasudevan Chakrapani , Lake Walker Gabriella , Weatherly Helen , Feltbower Richard , Hinde Sebastian , Hewitt Catherine Elizabeth , Murtagh Fliss , Noyes Jane , Hackett Julia , Hain Richard , Oddie Sam , Subramanian Gayathri , Haynes Andrew , Fraser Lorna
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To describe end of life care in settings where, in the UK, most children die; to explore commonalities and differences within and between settings; and to test whether there are distinct, alternative models of end of life care.

Methods

An online survey of UK neonatal units (NNUs), paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) and children/young people’s cancer principal treatment centres (PTCs) collected data on aspects of service organisation, delivery and practice relevant to end of life outcomes or experiences (referred to as the core elements of end of life care) across three domains: care of the child, care of the parent and bereavement care.

Results

91 units/centres returned a survey (37% response rate). There was variation within and between settings in terms of whether and how core elements of end of life care were provided. PTCs were more likely than NNUs and PICUs to have palliative care expertise strongly embedded in the multidisciplinary team (MDT), and to have the widest range of clinical and non-clinical professions represented in the MDT. However, bereavement care was more limited. Many settings were limited in the practical and psychosocial-spiritual care and support available to parents.

Conclusions

Children at end of life, and families, experience differences in care that evidence indicates matter to them and impact outcomes. Some differences appear to be related to the type of setting. Subsequent stages of this research (the ENHANCE study) will investigate the relative contribution of these core elements of end of life care to child/parent outcomes and experiences.
Palliative care in advanced systemic rheumatic diseases: an integrated approach
Authors: Amlani Adam , Wentlandt Kirsten , Saltman Alexandra P
Published: November 2024

Despite rapid advances in the field of rheumatology, many patients with rheumatoid arthritis suffer from chronic and debilitating systemic disease, with a high symptom burden and limited life expectancy. In this paper, we demonstrate an approach to managing a patient with rheumatoid arthritis with life-limiting illness for the palliative care physician. In particular, we focus on the systemic nature of rheumatoid arthritis and nuances around medication management towards the end of life. It is our hope that this paper can serve as a guide for the palliative care clinician to decrease end-of-life morbidity from rheumatic disease and rheumatic medications.
Exploring the viability of charged spheres admitting non-metricity and matter source
Authors: Gul M. Zeeshan , Javed Faisal , Sharif M. , Alkarni Shalan
Published: November 2024

This research paper investigates the impact of non-metricity and matter source on the geometry of charged spheres in the presence of anisotropic matter configuration. We use a specific model of extended symmetric teleparallel theory to minimize the complexity of the field equations. Moreover, the feasible non-singular solutions are used to examine the interior composition of the charged spheres. The Darmois junction conditions are used to determine the unknown constants in the metric coefficients. We explore some significant properties in the interior of compact stars under consideration to check their viable existence in this modified framework. The equilibrium state of the charged spheres is discussed using the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff equation and stability is analyzed by sound speed and Herrera cracking approach. We find that the charged spheres in this theoretical framework are physically viable and stable.
SoK: Access Control Policy Generation from High-level Natural Language Requirements
Authors: Jayasundara Sakuna Harinda , Gamagedara Arachchilage Nalin Asanka , Russello Giovanni
Published: November 2024

Administrator-centered access control failures can cause data breaches, putting organizations at risk of financial loss and reputation damage. Existing graphical policy configuration tools and automated policy generation frameworks attempt to help administrators configure and generate access control policies by avoiding such failures. However, graphical policy configuration tools are prone to human errors, making them unusable. On the other hand, automated policy generation frameworks are prone to erroneous predictions, making them unreliable. Therefore, to find ways to improve their usability and reliability, we conducted a Systematic Literature Review analyzing 49 publications. The thematic analysis of the publications revealed that graphical policy configuration tools are developed to write and visualize policies manually. Moreover, automated policy generation frameworks are developed using machine learning (ML) and natural language processing (NLP) techniques to automatically generate access control policies from high-level requirement specifications. Despite their utility in the access control domain, limitations of these tools, such as the lack of flexibility, and limitations of frameworks, such as the lack of domain adaptation, negatively affect their usability and reliability, respectively. Our study offers recommendations to address these limitations through real-world applications and recent advancements in the NLP domain, paving the way for future research.
Inhalation exposure to airborne PM2.5 attenuates hepatic metabolic pathways through S-nitrosylation of the primary ER stress sensor
Authors: Yang Zhao , Chen Qi , Wang Jiemei , Qiu Yining , Thepsuwan Pattaraporn , Yi Zhengping , Heng Henry H. , Sun Qinghua , Chen Xuequn , Li Li , He Peijian , Zhang Ren , Zhang Kezhong
Published: November 2024

Exposure to fine airborne particulate matter PM2.5 causes metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis characterized by hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Here, we discovered that inhalation exposure to environmental PM2.5 induces nitrosative stress in livers by suppressing hepatic S-nitrosoglutathione reductase activities, which leads to S-nitrosylation of the unfolded protein response transducer IRE1α. S-nitrosylation decreases IRE1α-dependent degradation of miRNAs in the livers of mice exposed to PM2.5, leading to downregulation of major regulators of energy metabolism and anti-inflammatory response.
Higher AMPK activation in mouse oxidative compared with glycolytic muscle does not correlate with LKB1 or CaMKKβ expression
Authors: Bernasconi Romain , Soodla Kärol , Sirp Alex , Zovo Kairit , Kuhtinskaja Maria , Lukk Tiit , Vendelin Marko , Birkedal Rikke
Published: November 2024

It is important to understand how AMP-activated kinase, AMPK, is regulated, as it is a potential therapeutic target for several diseases. AMPK is activated by liver kinase B1, LKB1, and calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase kinase 2, CaMKKβ. In cultured cells, AMPK activation correlates with LKB1 expression. In contrast, we show that AMPK-activation was higher in oxidative than glycolytic muscle, without correlating with LKB1 or CaMKKβ expression. Thus, AMPK regulation is more complex in highly compartmentalized muscle cells.
Effects of Astaxanthin on Ovarian Development of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)
Authors: Tao Mingwei , Zhou Hangxian , Wei Jie , Xu Qiyou
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of astaxanthin on ovarian development of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) female. Five isonitrogenous and isolipidic feeds with varying levels of astaxanthin (0.8, 19, 41, 97, and 200 mg/kg) were grouped as AS0, AS20, AS40, AS100, and AS200, respectively. The results indicated that the gonadosomatic index (GSI) was significantly greater in the AS40 and AS100 than in AS0 and AS200 (p < 0.05). The AS40 and AS100 exhibited a dramatically lower hepatosomatic index (HSI) compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The content of vitellogenin (VTG) was significantly increased in AS100 compared to the AS0, AS20, and AS200 (p < 0.05). Testosterone (T) levels were significantly lower in the AS200 compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The AS40, AS100, and AS200 groups exhibited significantly greater follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) levels than the AS0 and AS20 group (p < 0.05). The luteinizing hormone (LH) level was significantly higher in AS100 compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The estradiol (E2) levels were significantly higher in AS40 compared to the AS0 and AS200 groups (p < 0.05). The total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC) was significantly higher in AS100 than the AS0 and AS20 groups (p < 0.05). The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significantly higher in AS40 compared to the AS0 and AS200 groups (p < 0.05). The malondialdehyde (MDA) level was significantly decreased in AS40 than the other groups (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic analysis of ovarian tissue revealed that differentially expressed genes primarily involved in pathways such as “ovarian steroidogenesis,” “steroid hormone biosynthesis,” and “arachidonic acid metabolism.” The expression of genes involved in ovarian steroidogenesis and arachidonic acid metabolism, such as cytochrome P450 family 2 subfamily J member (cyp2j), insulin‐like growth factor 1 (igf1), phospholipase A2 group (pla2g), FSH receptor (fshr), and acute regulatory protein (star), was significantly upregulated in the AS40 group (p < 0.05). In summary, appropriate amount of astaxanthin supplementation in the diet enhance gonadal development, antioxidant capacity, and sex hormone levels, promote the expression of genes related to gonadal development, and consequently, enhance reproductive performance of largemouth bass.
Comparison of Gut Microbiomes Between Neonates Born by Cesarean Section and Vaginal Delivery: Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Pahirah Nichapat , Narkwichean Amarin , Taweechotipatr Malai , Wannaiampikul Sivaporn , Duang-Udom Chinpanee , Laosooksathit Wipada
Published: November 2024

Background: Balanced diversity and abundance of gut microbiome play important roles in human health, including neonatal health. Though not established, there is evidence that the delivery route could alter the diversity of neonatal gut microbiomes.

Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the differences in the gut microbiomes of neonates delivered via cesarean section compared to those born by vaginal delivery and to identify the predominant microbial taxa present in each group.

Study Design: A prospective observational study of 281 healthy neonates born between February 2021 and April 2023 at Her Royal Highness Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Medical Center, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand, was performed. The study population was divided into two groups: 139 neonates born via vaginal delivery and 141 neonates born via cesarean section. The microbiota composition of each neonate’s fecal sample was identified by using 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid metagenomic sequencing.

Results: Neonates delivered vaginally exhibited a gut microbiome with higher abundance and diversity than those delivered by cesarean delivery. Bifidobacterium was the dominant genus in both groups. Bifidobacterium breve was the dominant species and was significantly higher in cesarean‐delivered neonates compared to those delivered vaginally (24.0% and 9.2%, respectively) (p < 0.001). However, the taxonomy of only 89 (64.0%) and 44 (31.43%) fecal samples could be identified from the vaginal and cesarean delivery groups, respectively.

Conclusion: Route of delivery is associated with neonatal gut microbiome abundance and diversity. Neonates delivered via vaginal delivery exhibited higher diversity but lower abundance of the dominant species in the gut microbiome.

Trial Registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry identifier: TCTR20221024003
Recent Trends in Reconfigurable Antennas for Modern Wireless Communication: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Aljaidi Mohammad , Kansal Isha , Alshammari Kaznah , Gupta Gifty , Alenezi Sami Mohammed
Published: November 2024

Reconfigurable antennas (RAs) are the key component in the modern wireless communication applications as these antennas have the ability of multifunctional and altered radiating properties in the form of radiation patterns and polarizations. The need for multiple antennas in a single device is becoming more prominent these days due to the increasing applications and user demands in daily life. Consequently, these antennas cover the maximum space in the devices; therefore, to mitigate this problem, RAs are the best solution. This article discusses the various types of RA along with the reconfigurable methods in detail. These types include the frequency, radiation pattern, polarization, and compound RAs, and methods include the electrical (with switches), mechanical, optical, and material change. Based on the requirement and application, proper methods have been chosen by the authors to achieve the reconfigurability in the antennas. The RAs find applications in various sectors including terrestrial and satellite communications, vehicular communication due its movement in rural and urban areas, and cognitive radio.
Challenges and Innovations in Breast Cancer Screening in India: A Review of Epidemiological Trends and Diagnostic Strategies
Authors: Weerarathna Induni Nayodhara , Luharia Anurag , Uke Ashish , Mishra Gaurav
Published: November 2024

The intricate terrain of breast cancer (BC) in India is examined in this review, which also looks at screening techniques, geographical differences, epidemiological trends, and obstacles to early diagnosis. BC has a major impact in India, especially on women. The research examines data from 2014 to 2024 and finds that, although overall cancer rates are declining, there has been a noticeable increase in BC cases. While obstacles including late‐stage diagnosis and restricted access to treatment contribute to lower survival rates in India compared to Western countries, regional variations underscore the need for customized screening measures. The analysis of screening methods highlights the particular difficulties that Indian women encounter, such as the limitations of mammography in a country whose breast density is higher. The review presents cutting‐edge technologies like breast exams and computer‐aided detection and examines alternative techniques like ultrasonography. The importance of healthcare spending on screening uptake is highlighted by the regional inequality discussion, and mobile screening camps have emerged as a workable way to get around access and cost issues. The relevance of patient education and awareness in the Indian context is emphasized in the review’s conclusion. The lack of adequate health resources and sociocultural obstacles, such as the fear of cancer, highlight the necessity of early detection campaigns and thorough education programs. With a knowledge of the difficulties and achievements in BC screening procedures, this narrative review hopes to make a significant contribution to the larger conversation about managing BC in the particular setting of India.
Municipal Solid Waste Challenges in Ethiopia and Valorizing the Potential of the Organic Waste Fraction for Composting and Bioenergy
Authors: Debele Abu Duguma , Fereja Workineh Mengesha
Published: November 2024

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management in developing nations, particularly Ethiopia, faces considerable issues, including high generation and low collection rates, unsafe disposal practices, and inadequate reuse and recycling efforts. This review looks into the current status of these challenges and possibilities for valorizing the potential of the organic fraction of MSW through composting and bioenergy. Aligned with global sustainability goals and emphasizing the promotion of resource efficiency and waste reduction, this review aims to identify the major challenges of MSW management in Ethiopia and valorize the MSW organic fraction to describe sustainable waste management solutions. The review process comprised a systematic approach through a comprehensive literature search of credible databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed from 2012 to 2023. To ensure relevance and reduce bias, 63 relevant studies were selected from an initial pool of 200 papers via a rigorous screening process utilizing the PRISMA protocol. The assessment of study quality with the AMSTAR‐2 improved the accuracy and reliability of the review’s conclusions. The authors reviewed various challenges associated with MSW in Ethiopia, including MSW generation and collection rates, composition issues, and disposal technologies. A lack of community awareness and cooperation were identified as significant barriers to successful waste management practices in Ethiopia. This review also evaluated the viability of valorizing the organic fraction of MSW through bioenergy production and community‐level composting as sustainable alternatives. The findings of this review provide valuable insights and evidence‐based recommendations for addressing MSW concerns in Ethiopia. The findings can also serve to shape policy formulation, research goals, and practical interventions focused on enhancing solid waste management practices in developing nations.
Factors in Deciding to Speed Up Construction Work Are Schedule Cost and CO2 Emissions
Authors: Surapha Wattana , Sutheerawatthana Pitch
Published: November 2024

This research aimed to study the life cycle assessment, critical path, and analytical hierarchy process, as well as the advantages/disadvantages of adopting the life cycle assessment and critical path methods (CPMs). The results of this study were used to develop preventative measures to decrease construction pollution; constitute data for further study analogous cost, time, and CO2; and suggest alternatives to accelerate structural work. The study was conducted in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region, Thailand, and data from various sources were analyzed to identify the most effective construction methods to reduce time, cost, and CO2. According to the study, construction costs and CO2 must be decreased once construction work needs to be accelerated. The decrease in construction time, cost, and CO2 are the factors that determine the speed at which construction work progresses. The CPM is the most suitable for choosing construction crash time and time cost trade‐off to optimal time, cost, and CO2. A value of 0.027 and an RI obtained by opening a random consistency index (CI) table, n = 3, will result in a value of 0.58. The results showed that alternative 1 had the highest overall score, making it the choice that considers both cost and construction time, which tests the CI by using a CI.
Effect of Various Levels of Marzeh Bakhtiari (Satureja bachtiarica Bunge) Extract and Essential Oil on the Stability of Flaxseed Oil
Authors: Matbo Atefeh , Ghanbari Mohammad Mehdi , Sekhavatizadeh Seyed Saeed , Nikkhah Mehdi
Published: November 2024

In the present study, Satureja bachtiarica Bunge extract (SBBE) and Satureja bachtiarica Bunge oil (SBBO) were used as effective antioxidants for stabilizing flaxseed oil (FSO). FSOs treated with different concentrations (0.5% and 1%) of SBBE and SBBO were prepared. The acid degree value (ADV), peroxide value (PV), para‐anisidine value (pAV), Totox index, conjugated diene acids (CDAs), thiobarbituric acid–reactive substances (TBARS), antioxidant activity (DPPH), and fatty acid profile were measured after 35 days at 40°C. The results showed that SBBO was rich in bioactive compounds, including oxygenated monoterpenes, carvacrol, and γ‐terpinene. On the 35th day, the amounts of ADV, PV, pAV, TBARS, Totox, and CDA in the control sample were 1.21 mg/g, 46.80 meq O2/kg, 15.61, 2.43 mg MDA/g, 107.92, and 0.82%, respectively, which were significantly greater than those in the 1% SBBE and SBBO treatments (p < 0.05). The fatty acid profile showed that the content of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) in the FSO samples was greater than that of saturated fatty acids (SFAs). The UFA values were between 86.13% and 85.93%. The results of this study showed that SBBE and SBBO (1%) could be used as effective natural antioxidants for increasing the shelf life of FSO.
Double Trouble in the Basement! A Case of PLA2R-Associated Membranous Nephropathy with Atypical Anti-Glomerular Basement Membrane Disease
Authors: Tolani Renuka , Sathiyaraj Steffi , Lyu David , Truong Luan , Thurston Theresa , El-Zaatari Ziad M. , Khan Ali R. , Edwards Angelina , Bobart Shane A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Concurrent atypical anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease with membranous nephropathy is a rare occurrence. Compared to typical anti-GBM disease, atypical anti-GBM disease is often seronegative, with a mild disease presentation and course. We present a case of concomitant of PLA2R-associated membranous nephropathy and atypical anti-GBM disease in a patient with cholangiocarcinoma. Case Presentation: A 66-year-old male with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, hepatitis C, cirrhosis, and cholangiocarcinoma presented with nephrotic range proteinuria and worsening bilateral lower extremity edema. Urine studies showed 3+ protein and 13 red blood cells per high power field and 24-h urine protein of 14 g (nephrotic range). Serum albumin was 2.1 g/dL and serum creatinine was 0.8 mg/dL (nephrotic syndrome). Serological work-up was negative for antinuclear antibody, anti-double stranded DNA antibody, anti-PLA2R, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, rheumatoid factor, and anti-GBM. Complement (C3 and C4) levels were normal and no monoclonal gammopathy was detected. A kidney biopsy showed membranous nephropathy with typical light microscopic, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopic findings. In addition, there was atypical anti-GBM disease characterized by a non-circumferential cellular crescent in 1 out of 12 glomeruli 2–3+ linear staining for IgG along GBM. There was no tubular basement membrane staining for IgG and albumin staining was negative. The glomeruli demonstrated strong staining for PLA2R but were negative for THSD7A and NELL-1. The patient received rituximab infusion, dapagliflozin, and lisinopril, resulting in remission of proteinuria. Despite intense chemotherapy with cisplatin, gemcitabine, and immunotherapy, the patient’s cholangiocarcinoma progressed, and he transitioned to hospice care. Conclusion: For our patient, rituximab resulted in remission of proteinuria. The lack of temporal association with the malignancy is consistent with the biopsy findings of PLA2R-associated membranous nephropathy. While there is not an established guideline for atypical anti-GBM disease, our case demonstrates the utility of rituximab for the management of concurrent atypical anti-GBM disease with membranous nephropathy.
An Assessment on Innovator’s Ability for Consent-Free Health Data Reuse, In the Context of the GDPR and EHDS: The Netherlands Case Study
Authors: Afra Maryam
Published: November 2024

Considering the difficult procedure of obtaining consent, consent-free health data reuse is believed to be one major contributor towards the creation of thriving health innovation ecosystem. While classic researchers are supported by the GDPR to reuse health data without consent, the innovator’s situation remains unclear, and this uncertainty continues to exist upon the introduction of the EHDS. To shed light on grey areas, positions of GDPR and EHDS on the ability of innovators for consent-free health data reuse were assessed. The study concludes that, while academicians are able to reuse health data without consent, a private company’s ability has been impeded by individual member states’ deviations from Article 9(2) GDPR. Furthermore, in contracts to EHDS (2022) which appeared in favour of innovators through the elimination of consent mechanism, EHDS (2024) with the inclusion of opt-out mechanism, and exclusion of private sector bodies from the Article 35(f), has negatively affected private companies.
From Word to World: Shamsur Rahman Faruqi, Iqbāl, and the Limits of Formalism
Authors: Khan Shariq
Published: November 2024

The Urdu literary critic Shamsur Rahman Faruqi (1935–2020) favored a formalist style of literary criticism, and applied it productively to the reading of major Urdu poets like Mīr and Ġhālib. Despite its formidable success, Faruqi’s approach had certain limitations in some cases. This article examines some of these limitations in the context of Faruqi’s writings on the poet Muḥammad Iqbāl, and in doing so explores more generally the analytical as well as political limits of the non-cognitivist assumptions of formalism when applied to certain modalities of reading, writing and understanding Persian and Urdu poetry. It thus makes the case for more flexible and pluralistic models of literary criticism that can better understand and accommodate multiple ways of apprehending Persian and Urdu poetry, including those which treat poetry as a possible source of knowledge, truth, and ethical guidance.
A Tale of Two Doctrines: Marriage in the Diocese of Toronto
Authors: Hartin Cole William
Published: November 2024

As questions of human sexuality continue to divide the churches of the Anglican Communion, the Diocese of Toronto is unique in the way it holds together both a traditional doctrine of marriage along with a doctrine that is inclusive to LGBTQ couples. According to its Policy on Marriage, the Diocese holds “in creative tension two views of Holy Matrimony that are, at once, contradictory and yet legitimately supported and honoured by our bishops, clergy and laity.” In this paper then, I seek to provide some historical background to this position before offering some theological analysis of the tensions inherent within it. Ultimately, I argue permanently holding such “contradictory” teaching is untenable, but that it may be useful as a path for discernment.
A Review of China Studies in Taiwan: History, Development and Main Contributions
Authors: Leu Guan-yi , Chen Mu-min
Published: November 2024

Taiwan has been a significant window for watching and understanding China. Several factors have contributed to Taiwan’s unique role, including geographical proximity and cultural understanding of China, its wide connections with China’s greater society, and its openness to the international community for exploring various qualitative and quantitative methods, including the adoption of artificial intelligence. This article examines the impact of political and educational environments as well as generational changes on research niches of Chinese studies in Taiwan in the past decades. The first stage, from the 1950s to the mid-1970s, was identified as studies of the Communist rebels, which aimed mainly at intelligence analysis and justification of the ruling Kuomintang government’s anti-Communist stance. From the late-1970s to the mid-1990s, the field underwent substantial reforms in methodologies and international exchanges. When Taiwan became more democratic and open, and its relations with China reconciled in the 1990s, China studies also became more diversified and eventually developed into a mature discipline in social sciences. Throughout these stages, China studies in Taiwan have shifted from being politically driven to being a scholarly driven field for diverse academic purposes.
Prevalence and associated factors of passive suicidal ideation in a population treated by a community mental health unit
Authors: Vázquez Morejón Antonio J , Vázquez Reyes Antonio , Salas Azcona Rosario , Vázquez-Morejón Raquel
Published: November 2024

Background:

Suicide is a major public health problem affecting an increasing number of people. It is a complex and multicausal phenomenon whose first step is passive suicidal ideation (PSI). The identification of people with PSI could facilitate specific interventions with those who are at greater risk and/or suffering.

Aims:

To explore the frequency of passive suicidal ideation (PSI) and its association with sociodemographic, psychological, and psychopathological variables in a sample of persons seen in first consultation in a community mental health unit.

Methods:

Data from 2,354 persons seen in first consultation in a community mental health unit were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative variables, and frequency distribution was used for qualitative variables. Differences between groups were explored using the t-test for independent groups and Chi-square for qualitative variables.

Results:

The results showed a high frequency of these ideas in the analyzed sample, with a notable prevalence where more than half of the subjects (55.6%) reported experiencing these ideas in the last 2 weeks. There was a significant association of these ideas with sociodemographic variables such as age, type of cohabitation, and employment status. Likewise, significant positive associations were observed with symptom severity (depressive and anxious) and with the functional impact of these symptoms, with an increase in the PSI as symptom intensity and functional impact increase. Experiential avoidance and social support also showed a highly significant association with PSI. There was an increase in PSI as experiential avoidance increased and a decrease in PSI as social support increased.

Conclusions:

The high prevalence of PSI within the clinical mental health sample highlights the critical need for targeted interventions. The significant associations with sociodemographic variables, symptom severity, functional impact, experiential avoidance, and social support emphasize the multifaceted nature of PSI and the importance of addressing these factors in clinical practice to effectively reduce PSI and improve overall mental health outcomes.
Exploring the Mediating Influence of Psychological Flexibility and Self-Compassion on the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Post-Traumatic Growth among Young Adults in India
Authors: Sachdeva Jasmine , Shukla Ridhima
Published: November 2024

Through the course of the last few decades researchers have observed that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) can act as a breeding ground for transformative positive changes to develop in the face of adversity. This process of enhanced growth is systematically studied as ‘Post Traumatic Growth’ (PTG). Though there is an existing association between ACE and PTG, yet there is a paucity of studies that explores the mediating variables in this relationship. The current study aims to explore the role of self-compassion (SC) and psychological flexibility (PF) between ACE and PTG among Indian young adults. The study was conducted on 298 Indian participants who were in the age bracket of 18–25 years. The study variables were assessed using self-administered rating scales. Participants were screened for ACE using Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Questionnaire. Additionally, Self-Compassion Scale (SCS-SF), Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II), Posttraumatic Growth Inventory- Short Form were other tools used. The results have indicated that both Psychological Flexibility and Self-Compassion mediate the relationship of ACE with PTG. The current findings have emphasized on the role of Psychological Flexibility and Self-Compassion in moving towards Post Traumatic Growth. These findings reassert that Psychological Flexibility and Self-Compassion are foundational to Acceptance Commitment Therapy and highly useful especially while working with trauma affected populations.
Perspectives of Parents, School Nurses, and Pediatricians on Vaccine Hesitancy in St Louis County, Missouri
Authors: Bradshaw Jennifer , Brzozowski Amanda , Katti Priya , Chapman Olivia , Pham Audrey , Torgerson Andrew , Wankum Ethan , Snavely Aimee , Baskin Carole R.
Published: November 2024

Objectives:

To gather perspectives on childhood vaccination and vaccine hesitancy, the Saint Louis County Department of Public Health (DPH) surveyed parents seeking nonmedical exemptions, conducted focus groups of school nurses, and interviewed pediatricians.

Methods:

We distributed exemption forms and voluntary questionnaires to parents in St Louis County who were seeking nonmedical exemptions for their school-aged children at any DPH clinic from August 2019 through December 2022. We conducted and recorded four 75- to 90-minute focus groups of 11 school nurses in groups of 2 or 3 nurses in September 2022. We conducted and recorded interviews of 8 pediatricians in March 2023. We calculated descriptive statistics, transcribed focus group discussions and interviews, and performed qualitative coding.

Results:

We collected 1871 exemption forms. The median age of children (n = 1854) was 6 years. Of the 10 vaccines included in the exemption list, the percentage of exclusions ranged from 91.2% for meningococcal conjugate to 88.7% for hepatitis A. We identified 4 themes in the focus groups: recent changes in vaccine compliance, hesitancy and barriers, services addressing hesitancy and barriers, and future requests for DPH. Analysis of pediatrician interviews revealed themes relating to vaccine information, community efforts, and physician decision-making.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to vaccine hesitancy in St Louis County. Future interventions need to focus on beliefs and behavioral change related to vaccines and not just the economics and accessibility of vaccines.
Selecting Items to Compose a Brief Version of the Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory Using Machine Learning, Sparse Modeling
Authors: Mori Takemi , Shimada Yoshikazu
Published: November 2024

This study aims to briefly compose a well-known tool, Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory, and to obtain findings on the efficient use of tools. We hypothesize that sparse modeling can identify item combinations with high predictive validity. Using follow-up data on 516 justice-impacted youths (age range = 13-19 years) in Japanese juvenile classification homes, this study obtains area under the curves (AUCs) of 0.71 and 0.72 for seven- and eight-variable models itemized using LASSO and Elastic Net, respectively, as machine learning methods. Analysis demonstrates that the brief version using sparse modeling insignificantly differed from original version, although its AUC values were slightly lower, supporting the hypothesis. Through the effort to incorporate many types of risk factors into the tool, the use of sparse modeling to extract combinations of items with high predictive power for recidivism could lead to the creation of a user-friendly, item-count scale tool for forensic settings.
A feedforward control method for turntable servo system based on physics-guided neural network
Authors: He Yuxiang , Chen Songlin , Liu Yang , Xie Cheng , Geng Jiabao
Published: November 2024

Model-based feedforward control is a critical control method for high-dynamic and high-precision requirements of turntable servo systems. However, the turntable servo system will be affected by the change of working state in actual work, so the traditional physical feedforward control makes it difficult to obtain an accurate model of the turntable servo system. In this article, a feedforward controller based on a physics-guided neural network (PGNN) is proposed to improve the tracking performance of the turntable servo system. Firstly, a PGNN model is constructed according to the characteristics of the turntable, which is divided into a physical model part and a neural network part. Then the above model is applied to the design of the feedforward controller to replace the traditional feedforward controller. In order to improve the extension of the network, a new penalty function mechanism is proposed, which integrates regularization and physical consistency on the basis of the mean square error term. The automatic tuning algorithm of the parameters of the PGNN model is also designed to facilitate its wide application in the field of turntable control. Simulation results show that the neural network model designed in this article can accurately describe the nonlinear characteristics of the turntable servo system, and the fitting effect under different forms of excitation signals is better than the traditional physical model, with strong generalization ability and robustness. In addition, the feedforward control based on the model effectively improves the tracking accuracy of the system, which has important value and significance for the intelligent development of traditional servo control systems.
Commentary: The Need for Theories of Change in Training and Technical Assistance: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
Authors: Scheier Lawrence M.
Published: November 2024

In this commentary, I revisit some of the core issues raised in both the first and second special issues on “Strengthening the Science and Practice of Implementation Support: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Training and Technical Assistance Centers.” I first outline the concerns that I think are of paramount importance and then very briefly dissect each one from the perspective of a prevention scientist. I add commentary where I think the field can benefit and strengthen to advance the “science” of implementation support. At the same time, I also raise several points that I think will contribute to a better understanding of “how” TTA works, for “whom” and under what conditions. This portion of the commentary attends to the different training and learning modalities used for TTA, the argument that capacity building should be the objective, decluttering the constructs of motivation and readiness, and whether we can ever validly assess a public health impact from TTA. I offer suggestions to address each concern and hope that the field can benefit from this discussion as we usher in a new era.