bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ME2 Deficiency Is Associated With Recessive Neurodevelopmental Disorder
Authors: Almontashiri Naif A. M. , Alharby Essa , Saleh Mohammed , Abu‐Farha Mohamed , Alasmari Ali , Gebbia Marinella , Hiesl Charlotte , Peake Roy W. A. , Amr Sami Samir , Boles Eckhard , Roth Frederick P. , Abubaker Jehad
Published: October 2024

Malate is an important dicarboxylic acid produced from fumarate in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Deficiencies of fumarate hydrolase (FH) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH), responsible for malate formation and metabolism, respectively, are known to cause recessive forms of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). The malic enzyme isoforms, malic enzyme 1 (ME1) and 2 (ME2), are required for the conversion of malate to pyruvate. To date, there have been no reports linking deficiency of either malic enzyme isoforms to any Mendelian disease in humans. We report a patient presenting with NDD, subtle dysmorphic features, resolved dilated cardiomyopathy, and mild blood lactate elevation. Whole exome sequencing (WES) revealed a homozygous frameshift variant (c.1379_1380delTT, p.Phe460fs*22) in the malic enzyme 2 (ME2) gene resulting in truncated and unstable ME2 protein in vitro. Subsequent deletion of the yeast ortholog of human ME2 (hME2) resulted in growth arrest, which was rescued by overexpression of hME2, strongly supporting an important role of ME2 in mitochondrial function. Our results also support the pathogenicity and candidacy of the ME2 gene and variant in association with NDD. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a Mendelian human disease resulting from a biallelic variant in the ME encoding gene. Future studies are warranted to confirm ME2‐associated recessive NDD.
Olfactory bulb stimulation mitigates Alzheimer's‐like disease progression
Authors: Salimi Morteza , Nazari Milad , Shahsavar Payam , Dehghan Samaneh , Javan Mohammad , Mirnajafi‐Zadeh Javad , Raoufy Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2024

Background

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has demonstrated potential in mitigating Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the invasive nature of DBS presents challenges for its application. The olfactory bulb (OB), showing early AD‐related changes and extensive connections with memory regions, offers an attractive entry point for intervention, potentially restoring normal activity in deteriorating memory circuits.

Aims

Our study examined the impact of electrically stimulating the OB on working memory as well as pathological and electrophysiological alterations in the OB, medial prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and entorhinal cortex in amyloid beta (Aβ) AD model rats.

Methods

Male Wistar rats underwent surgery for electrode implantation in brain regions, inducing Alzheimer's‐like disease. Bilateral olfactory bulb (OB) electrical stimulation was performed for 1 hour daily to the OB of stimulation group animals for 18 consecutive days, followed by the evaluations of histological, behavioral, and local field potential signal processing.

Results

OB stimulation counteracted Aβ plaque accumulation and prevented AD‐induced working memory impairments. Furthermore, it prompted an increase in power across diverse frequency bands and enhanced functional connectivity, particularly in the gamma band, within the investigated regions during a working memory task.

Conclusion

This preclinical investigation highlights the potential of olfactory pathway‐based brain stimulation to modulate the activity of deep‐seated memory networks for AD treatment. Importantly, the accessibility of this pathway via the nasal cavity lays the groundwork for the development of minimally invasive approaches targeting the olfactory pathway for brain modulation.
Hierarchical deep compartment modeling: A workflow to leverage machine learning and Bayesian inference for hierarchical pharmacometric modeling
Authors: Elmokadem Ahmed , Wiens Matthew , Knab Timothy , Utsey Kiersten , Callisto Samuel P. , Kirouac Daniel
Published: October 2024

Population pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling serves as the cornerstone for understanding drug behavior within a specific population. It integrates subject covariates to elucidate the variability in PK parameters, thus enhancing predictive accuracy. However, covariate modeling within this framework can be intricate and time‐consuming due to the often obscure structural relationship between covariates and PK parameters. Previous attempts, such as deep compartment modeling (DCM), aimed to streamline this process using machine learning techniques. Nonetheless, DCM fell short in assessing residual errors and interindividual variability (IIV), potentially leading to model misspecification and overfitting. Furthermore, DCM lacked the ability to quantify model uncertainty. To address these limitations, we introduce hierarchical deep compartment modeling (HDCM) as an advancement of DCM. HDCM harnesses machine learning to discern the interplay between covariates and PK parameters while simultaneously evaluating diverse levels of random effects and quantifying uncertainty through Bayesian inference. This tutorial provides a comprehensive application of the HDCM workflow using open‐source Julia tools.
A “one‐step” approach to heart rate correction and statistical analysis applied to conscious dog QTc studies
Authors: Best Derek D. , Abernathy Matthew M. , Leishman Derek J.
Published: October 2024

A “one‐step” method which combined the heart rate correction and statistical analysis for conscious nonhuman primate (NHP) QTc assessment was recently published. The principles of this method are applicable to other species. In the current analysis, we demonstrate the utility of the technique in conscious dog QTc studies. Two studies in male dogs (n = 8 and n = 7) implanted with telemetry devices were used. In both studies, treatments were randomized and all animals received all treatments. In the primary study, the effect on QTc of moxifloxacin was compared with vehicle. Each treatment (vehicle and moxifloxacin) was given on two separate occasions. In the second study, dogs were given vehicle or dofetilide. Conventional QTc analysis was compared with the “one‐step” method. The effect on QTc relative to vehicle was determined along with the median minimal detectable difference. As expected, both moxifloxacin and dofetilide gave QTc increases with a maximum of ~ 20 ms. There was a significant increase in the sensitivity to detect a QTc effect when using the “one‐step” method. The minimal detectable difference was 1.6 ms for the “one‐step” method compared with 6.2 ms for the conventional method. These analyses are consistent with the increased sensitivity described for the “one‐step” method applied to studies in NHP. The increased sensitivity should enhance the ability to support an integrated assessment of the QTc prolongation liability for new drugs.
Routine outcome monitoring and feedback in alcohol and other drug treatment: A qualitative study of client perspectives on implementation
Authors: Pocuca Nina , Tisdale Calvert , Campbell Gabrielle , Beck Alison K. , Ellem Rhiannon , Quinn Catherine A. , Kelly Peter J. , Larance Briony , Baker Amanda L. , Connor Jason P. , Marsden John , Chan Gary C. K. , Connelly Luke , Lenzen Sabrina , Farrell Michael , Hides Leanne
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Routine outcome monitoring (ROM) and feedback is an evidence‐supported strategy for evaluating alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment outcomes. However, the implementation of ROM and feedback into AOD services remains a significant challenge. Research aimed at understanding client perspectives on ROM and feedback is needed to facilitate successful implementation. This study examined experiences with and perceptions of ROM and feedback in a sample of clients receiving AOD treatment.

Methods

Interviews and online surveys were conducted with N = 26 people (13 male; Mage = 36.12 years, SD = 10.29) enrolled in an AOD treatment program in Australia. Data analysis of the transcripts was guided by thematic analysis, while descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative survey data.

Results

Four major themes were identified in the qualitative data: (i) ROM and feedback is valuable to AOD treatment; (ii) clear and concise outcome measures with an integrated feedback loop are vital to reliable ROM; (iii) desire for visual and verbal feedback that highlights progress; and (iv) ROM and feedback can be emotionally challenging.

Discussion and Conclusions

Participants valued ROM when it was clearly integrated within AOD treatment and they received feedback on their responses. Potential facilitators to implementing and improving the provision of ROM and feedback in AOD treatment include: (i) a clear, treatment‐based rationale to foster client buy‐in for ROM and maximise AOD treatment benefit; (ii) brief outcome measure surveys; and (iii) graphical visualisations of ROM feedback.
Cerebral palsy characteristics in term‐born children with and without detectable perinatal risk factors: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Suzuki Kai , Husein Nafisa , Oskoui Maryam , Fehlings Darcy , Shevell Michael , Kirton Adam , Dunbar Mary J. ,   and members of the Canadian Cerebral Palsy Registry
Published: October 2024

Aim

To compare, in term‐born children with cerebral palsy (CP), the characteristics of those who exhibit detectable risk factors for CP at birth with those who do not.

Method

This was a cross‐sectional study of term‐born children using the Canadian Cerebral Palsy Registry comparing those with and without perinatal risk factors and/or neonatal symptoms for pregnancy, birth and neonatal characteristics, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, CP subtype, and impairment severity. Risk factors were quantified with a CP risk calculator. Multivariable and multinomial regressions were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and relative risk ratios.

Results

Of 1333 term‐born children, 781 (58.6%) had complete variables for the CP risk calculator, of whom 195 (25%) had ‘undetectable’ newborn infant CP risk, and they did not have greater postneonatal brain injury. Focal injury on MRI was more common (OR 2.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3–3.1) than in the ‘detectable’ group. The ‘undetectable’ group had more unilateral CP (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3–2.6), less severe motor impairment (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67–0.86), and were more verbal (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.5–3.6).

Interpretation

In the Canadian CP Registry, one‐quarter of term‐born children lacked neonatal encephalopathy, seizures, or perinatal risk factors. They were more likely to have unilateral CP, focal MRI findings, and communicate with words than children with risk factors or neonatal symptoms.
Intra‐Atrial Right Coronary Artery: A Condition Revealed by Coronary CT Scan
Authors: Rovera Chiara , Bisanti Francesca , Moretti Claudio
Published: October 2024

Coronary artery anomalies are rare and may involve the coronary origin, course, or termination. Most are benign; however, some can lead to myocardial damage, sudden death, or potential hazards during interventional or surgical procedures. The advancement of imaging studies has led to an increase in their diagnosis. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) especially has characterized new anomalies that were previously anecdotal. This is the case of the intra‐atrial course of the right coronary artery. The present is a brief review about this rare congenital anomaly.
From two segments and beyond: Investigating the onset of regeneration in Syllis malaquini
Authors: Spieß Vanessa , Ribeiro Rannyele P. , Helm Conrad , Aguado M. Teresa
Published: October 2024

Annelids feature a diverse range of regenerative abilities, but complete whole‐body regeneration is less common, particularly in the context of the head and anterior body regeneration. This study provides a detailed morphological description of Syllis malaquini regenerative abilities. By replicating previous experiments and performing diverse surgical procedures, we explored the capacity of this species for whole‐body regeneration. We detailed the precise timing of regeneration of particular structures such as the eyes, proventricle, pharyngeal tooth, nuchal organs, and body pigmentation after amputation. Our high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser‐scanning microscopy images provide details of the blastema region, revealing that while anal opening remains in connection to the exterior environment, oral opening is formed “de novo” during blastema differentiation. Additionally, we performed amputations to isolate fragments consisting of one, two, and three segments from the intestinal trunk region. We found that S. malaquini requires at least two to three segments to successfully regenerate the whole body. In addition, we verified a variable capacity to regenerate depending upon the gut region, with structures of the foregut greatly impairing some steps of the regenerative process. Our work notably addresses the gap in knowledge concerning gut formation and its impact on regenerative capabilities. Ongoing research is crucial to unravel the role of gut tissue specificity and plasticity during regeneration in annelids, and particularly in syllids.
Life, Death and Energy: What Does Nature Select?
Authors: Brown James H. , Hou Chen , Hall Charles A. S. , Burger Joseph R.
Published: October 2024

Evolutionary biology is poised for a third major synthesis. The first presented Darwin's evidence from natural history. The second incorporated genetic mechanisms. The third will be based on energy and biophysical processes. It should include the equal fitness paradigm (EFP), which quantifies how organisms convert biomass into surviving offspring. Natural selection tends to maximise energetic fitness, , where is mass‐specific rate of cohort biomass production, is generation time, is fraction of cohort production that is passed to surviving offspring, and is energy density of biomas. At steady state, parents replace themselves with offspring of equal mass‐specific energy content,  ≈ 22.4 kJ/g, and biomass,  ≈ 1 g/g. The EFP highlights: (i) the energetic basis of survival and reproduction; (ii) how natural selection acts directly on the parameters of ; (iii) why there is no inherent intrinsic fitness advantage for higher metabolic power, ontogenetic or population growth rate, fecundity, longevity, or resource use efficiency; and (iv) the role of energy in animals with a variety of life histories. Underlying the spectacular diversity of living things is pervasive similarity in how energy is acquired from the environment and used to leave descendants offspring in future generations.
Characteristics of overnight video‐EEG monitoring in infantile epileptic spasms syndrome at 2‐week follow‐up
Authors: Katyayan Akshat , Lee Steven T. , Martinez Luis , Takacs Danielle S.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To determine the optimal duration of electroencephalography (EEG) recording to detect epileptic spasms (ES) based on inpatient overnight video‐EEG monitoring in patients with infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) at the 2‐week follow‐up.

Methods

Patients with IESS and overnight EEG monitoring between January 2020 and June 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Time‐to‐ES, time‐to‐sleep and time‐to‐epileptic encephalopathy (EE) per the Burden of Amplitudes and Epileptiform Discharges (BASED 2021) score. BASED 2021 score were reported. ES and sleep detection sensitivity were calculated with respect to monitoring time. Etiology, treatment, and EEG features were assessed for strength of association with continued ES. Time‐to‐event analysis was performed with the first ES as the event of interest.

Results

Of 90 patients, 39 (43%) continued to have ES; 78.6% with EE continued to have ES, whereas only 27.4% without EE had ES (odds ratio [OR] 12.05). Structural etiologies were also associated with continued ES (OR 5.24). ES detection was 35.9%, 76.9%, and 84.6% at 1, 4, and 6 h, respectively, with corresponding negative likelihood ratios (NLRs) of .64, .23, and .15. ES detection reached >90% and >95% at 14 and 19 h, respectively. Sleep detection was 52.2%, 84.4%, and 95.6% at 1, 4, and 6 h, respectively, and captured in all patients by 11 h. EE was observed by 6 h for all associated patients.

Significance

Typical routine EEG durations (<1 h) were not sufficient to detect ES, EE, or sleep in patients with IESS at the 2‐week follow‐up. Four hour outpatient EEG will capture ES in 77% and sleep in 84% of the patients. EE, if present, was shortly after sleep onset. Additional monitoring of up to 19 h was needed to capture >95% of patients with ES. Although EE was strongly associated with continued ES, 27.4% of patients without EE demonstrated ES. This study will help guide adequate duration of EEG monitoring at the 2‐week follow‐up for patients with IESS.
The transition to Teletherapy: Experiences of emotionally focused therapists
Authors: Edwards Caitlin , Wittenborn Andrea K. , Morgan Preston , Pratt Francesca , Heiden‐Rootes Katie
Published: October 2024

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is an evidence‐based treatment for relational distress based on experiential, humanistic, and attachment theories. Despite the empirical support for EFT, there are no studies on EFT delivered via teletherapy. In this study, we aimed to understand therapists' experiences delivering EFT through teletherapy using open‐ended questions on a web‐based survey of certified EFT therapists (n = 69). Reflexive thematic analysis identified five themes: (1) Delivering EFT via teletherapy is similar to in‐person therapy, (2) Delivering EFT via teletherapy is more challenging than in‐person therapy, (3) Delivering EFT via teletherapy is more challenging with certain clients, (4) therapists adapted EFT for teletherapy, and (5) teletherapy and the COVID‐19 pandemic changed therapy practice. The themes illustrated the mixed experiences of EFT therapists using teletherapy. Whereas some found it straightforward to use EFT via teletherapy with couples, others experienced exhaustion and barriers. Practice recommendations for delivering EFT via teletherapy are outlined, including modifying assessment strategies, implementing new safety protocols, and providing additional psychoeducation.
Reaching for Excellence Through Equity or Prestige? US Private Master's Comprehensive Institutions and Low‐Income Students
Authors: Warshaw Jarrett B. , DeMonbrun Matt , McNaughtan Jon
Published: October 2024

Private master's comprehensive institutions (PMCIs) in the United States navigate pressures to expand college access and equity while striving for prestige in the academic hierarchy. To strive for prestige entails competing for world‐class status of greater selectivity, research intensity and resources, but such a pathway to excellence may, because of market‐competition, deepen institutional and student stratification in the sector. In this study, we examine how organisational characteristics associated with striving influence low‐income student enrolment at PMCIs over time. Our panel analysis revealed selected factors constraining the enrolment of low‐income students at the average PMCI. But the magnitude of these statistical relationships was rather modest and did not suggest dramatically worsening institutional and student inequality in the sector. These findings support a flexible theory of organisational fields, illuminating more equity‐centred behaviours at the typical PMCI than what prior literature indicates. We discuss implications for research and policy emphasising equity's connection to institutional excellence.
Molecular techniques in haematopathology: what and how?
Authors: Chatterjee Gaurav , He Rong , Patkar Nikhil , Viswanatha David , Langerak Anton W
Published: October 2024

Here we review the ‘what and how’ of molecular techniques used in the context of haematopathological diagnostics of both lymphoid and myeloid neoplasms. Keeping in mind that the required resources for molecular testing are not universally available, we will not only discuss novel and emerging techniques that allow more high‐throughput and sophisticated analyses of lymphoid and myeloid neoplasms, but also the more classical, low‐cost alternatives and even some workarounds for molecular testing approaches. In this review we also address other key aspects around molecular techniques for haematopatholgy diagnostics, including preanalytics, data interpretation, and data management, bioinformatics, and interlaboratory precision and performance evaluation.
Diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: an overview of the current genomic classification, diagnostic approaches, and future directions
Authors: Walter Wencke , Iacobucci Ilaria , Meggendorfer Manja
Published: October 2024

B‐acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B‐ALL) is a haematological disease resulting from haematopoietic system dysfunction, leading to the unchecked growth of immature B lymphoblasts. The disease's complexity is underscored by the spectrum of genetic aberrations that underlie B‐ALL entities, necessitating advanced genetic analyses for precise classification and risk determination. Prior to the adoption of next‐generation sequencing into standard diagnostic practices, up to 30% of B‐ALL cases were not assigned to specific entities due to the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods. The advent of comprehensive genomic analysis, especially whole‐genome transcriptome sequencing, has significantly enhanced our understanding of B‐ALL's molecular heterogeneity, paving the way for the exploration of novel, tailored treatment strategies. Furthermore, recent technological innovations, such as optical genome mapping, methylation profiling, and single‐cell sequencing, have propelled forward the fields of cancer research and B‐ALL management. These innovations introduce novel diagnostic approaches and prognostic markers, facilitating a deeper, more nuanced understanding of individual patient disease profiles. This review focuses on the latest diagnostic standards and assays for B‐ALL, the importance of new technologies and biomarkers in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and the expected role of innovative advancements in the future diagnosis and treatment of B‐ALL.
U–Pb Geochronology of the Baguio Area, a Major Mining District in Northern Luzon (Philippines)
Authors: Walia Monika , Pena Rolando , Knittel Ulrich
Published: October 2024

The Baguio District, located in northern Luzon (the Philippines), is one of the major gold and copper mining districts in the Philippines and SE Asia. U–Pb zircon ages for igneous rocks and for detrital zircons extracted from sediment samples of the principal formations of the Baguio District reveal major magmatic pulses at ca. 1, 3, 16, and 20 Ma. The oldest zircon dated in this study has an age of 27.3 ± 1.6 (2σ) indicating earlier activity which has, however, left only a small imprint on the zircon inventory of the sediments. The absence of older zircons suggests that northern Luzon formed as an intra‐oceanic arc. Zircon Hf isotope data suggests that the magmas, from which the zircons crystallized, were derived from time‐integrated highly depleted mantle sources, compatible with an intra‐oceanic origin of the island. The results of the U–Pb dating of zircons mostly confirm previous estimates of the ages of the rock units. Mid‐Miocene ages obtained for samples thought to represent the Pugo Formation, the lowermost unit, which is thought to be Cretaceous‐Eocene in age, most likely date magmatic rocks that intruded the Pugo Formation.
Photo‐cationic polymerizable ceramic slurry for the fabrication of ceramic structures in three‐dimensional printing
Authors: Park Hye‐Yeong , Seo HaEun , Sakuragi Shiori , Kim Min‐Gyu , Yeo Jeong‐gu , Choe Gyu‐Bin , Kim Gyu‐Nam , Koh Young‐Hag , Jung Yeon‐Gil , Yang SeungCheol
Published: October 2024

Cycloaliphatic epoxides exhibit post‐light irradiation heat‐induced polymerization, creating warp‐resistant green bodies during sintering. However, their use in light polymerization three‐dimensional (3D) printing is limited by slow photo‐curing speeds. In this study, a photo‐cationic polymerizable ceramic slurry was developed for 3D printing by mixing oxetane with cyclo‐aliphatic epoxide. This mixture improved photo‐curing speed, reduced resin viscosity, and enhanced the ceramic slurry's solid content. Additionally, we optimized the slurry by considering the specific and content ratio of photosensitizers and light absorbers. The optimized slurry polymerized unreacted functional groups in the polymer, improving the fracture strength of the green bodies through enhanced crosslinking density and uniformity in each layer. Ultimately, a sintered body without warpage was produced by the improved green bodies. This approach provides a solution related to controlling the photocuring speed and expands the potential applications of 3D printing in areas where the precision and stability of the printing material are required.
Synthesis, characterization, and electrical properties of Nd3+‐doped (Bi0.4Na0.2K0.2Ba0.2)TiO3 high‐entropy ceramics
Authors: He Qiang , Ye Wenhui , Han Yu , Chen Kepi , Nie Jingkai , Zhu Zhixiang , Zhou Shaoxiong
Published: October 2024

Recently, high‐entropy perovskites have attracted considerable attention due to their diverse chemical composition and multifunctionality. In this study, the high‐entropy approach was employed in a (Bi0.4Na0.2K0.2Ba0.2)TiO3 matrix, and Nd3+ was introduced to enhance the configurational entropy and modify its dielectric and ferroelectric properties. Notably, despite Nd3+ doping, all samples maintained a tetragonal perovskite structure at room temperature. The configurational entropy increased with the Nd3+ concentration, consequently leading to a gradual decline in the ferroelectric properties along with the associated temperature (Tm) and maximum dielectric constant (εm). The P–E loops of the ceramics also became thinner as Pm and Pr decreased, resulting in a slow decrease in the recoverable energy density (Wrec) and a simultaneous increase in the energy storage efficiency (η). Especially, the energy storage performance reached its peak at an Nd3+ concentration of 12 mol%, exhibiting an energy storage efficiency of 85.8% and a recoverable energy storage density of 0.74 J/cm3 at a low electric field of 100 kV/cm. These results highlight the potential of this material for dielectric applications in low electric fields and contribute to the advancement of alternative high‐entropy energy storage perovskite ceramics.
The effect of glass sealing stabilization on LSM–YSZ cathode poisoning and oxygen reduction reaction processes in solid oxide fuel cell
Authors: Shomali Zahra , Alizadeh Parvin , Abdoli Hamid
Published: October 2024

The perovskite structure and electrochemical activity of (La0.80Sr0.20)0.95MnO3−x–(Y2O3)0.08(ZrO2)0.92 (LSM–YSZ) composite cathode can be significantly affected by volatile boron species originated from sealing glass–ceramics. Herein, we investigate the impact of doping the varying Er2O3 content (ranging from 0 to 4%) into an aluminoborosilicate glass to mitigate boron volatilization, its interaction with the LSM–YSZ cathode and consequent effects on its electrochemical performance. The results reveal that the volatility of boron species can be significantly suppressed by introducing Er oxide into the glass network by enhancing the conversion of [BO3] to [BO4] units, thereby increasing the binding energy of boron and strengthening of the glass structure. Moreover, the electrocatalytic performance for the O2 reduction reaction on the LSM–YSZ/8YSZ/LSM–YSZ symmetric cells is studied under open‐circuit conditions in the presence and absence of glass sealants. The analyses utilizing electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and distribution of the relaxation times (DRT) analysis indicate that the electrocatalytic performance of LSM–YSZ cathodes can be enhanced in the presence of glass with 4% Er2O3 (GE4). This enhancement in the electrocatalytic activity of the LSM–YSZ electrode for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is attributed to formation of the thin layer on the electrode surface, leading to a notable reduction in the polarization resistance (Rp) from 0.81 Ω cm2 in the glass absence to 0.45 Ω cm2 in the presence of GE4. However, DRT analysis demonstrates that the prolonged exposure of the cathode to GE4 causes a deterioration in cell performance primarily due to the blocking the cathode active sites, which impedes dominant cathode processes of oxygen dissociative adsorption/desorption and charge transfer and consequently reducing kinetics of the ORR.
Interfacial capacitance in lithium disilicate glass: Experimental factors and charge carrier density
Authors: Zallocco Vinicius Martins , Campos João Vitor , Rodrigues Ana Candida Martins
Published: October 2024

The formation of an electric double‐layer (EDL) is an important phenomenon for many research areas, including energy storage technology. Although EDL is well‐known in electrochemistry, most of the studies involve the characterization of liquid electrolyte/electrode interfaces, and only a limited number of studies in solid‐solid contacts, such as solid electrolyte/electrode interface are available. This paper employed electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to systematically investigate the influence of experimental factors in the interfacial capacitance arising from the electrode polarization in a lithium disilicate glass/gold electrode interface. It analyzed the influence of a.c. input voltage amplitude, samples' roughness (mechanical and chemomechanical polishing) and thickness, range of applied frequency and temperature, and the number of impedance cycles. In short, it was found that an input voltage range of 15–60 mV is indicated to minimize potential electrochemical processes during electrode polarization, where the data is reproducible from the second measurement cycle onward. Smoother surfaces closely approximated ideal electrode spike behavior, with surface treatment exhibiting influence on interfacial capacitance values. Moreover, as expected, we observed an increase in relative permittivity values with increasing thickness, accompanied by decreased capacitance values. Finally, by employing optimal experimental conditions and analyzing the inflection frequency () of the versus log() curve, we determined that the ratio between effective charge carriers () and the total number of charge carriers () falls within the range of 5–12% between 130°C and 280°C.
Evaluation of the effect of the father's support on the mother's breastfeeding motivation
Authors: Erdoğan Elif , Özerdoğan Nebahat
Published: October 2024

Background

One of the factors affecting mothers' breastfeeding success is the father's support and the other is the mother's breastfeeding motivation. This study was conducted to determine the effect of partner breastfeeding support perceived by mothers and reported by fathers on mothers' breastfeeding motivation.

Methods

The research was conducted using the face‐to‐face interview method with couples presenting to Family Health Centers in a city in Türkiye. The sample consisted of 114 breastfeeding women in 6 weeks to 6 months postpartum and their partners. Data were collected with a ‘Personal Information Form’, the ‘Breastfeeding Support Scale (BSS)’, the ‘Breastfeeding Motivation Scale (BMS)’, and the ‘Partner Breastfeeding Influence Scale (PBIS)’.

Results

Participants' mean score was 119.19 ± 23.97 on the PBIS and 11.51 ± 2.94 on the BSS. A moderate‐level, significant positive relationship was found between the BSS and PBIS scores of primiparous and multiparous mothers (r = 0.647; r = 0.567). A one‐unit increase in fathers' breastfeeding support scores increased integrative regulation motivation scores by 0.548 units in primiparas and 0.458 units in multiparous mothers and by 0.309 units in intrinsic motivation scores and 0.351 units in external regulation‐baby health motivation scores in multiparous mothers.

Conclusion

It was found that father support affected the autonomous motivation of both primiparous and multiparous mothers at a moderate level. Perceived partner breastfeeding support affected only the autonomous motivation of multiparous mothers at a moderate level, and the types of controlled motivation, namely infant health and social approval, at a weak level.
Structure and process of Parkinson's disease rehabilitation in the southern sector of Ghana: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Agoriwo Mary W. , Joseph Conran , Franzén Erika , Unger Marianne
Published: October 2024

Rationale

The structure, process and outcome (SPO) framework has been used to establish that improved structures of care influences an enhanced process of stroke care resulting in improved outcome. Although, both stroke and Parkinson's disease (PD) are neurological conditions that require prolonged period of care and rehabilitation, the SPO framework has not yet been used to describe the existing structures and processes of PD care and rehabilitation in Ghana.

Aims and Objective

To describe the current structures and processes of PD rehabilitation across the three healthcare levels (primary, secondary and tertiary) in the southern sector of Ghana.

Method

An online cross‐sectional descriptive survey design was used via REDCap. Fifty‐two therapists, including department heads, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists from seven healthcare facilities were purposefully sampled and invited to complete the survey on structures and processes of PD rehabilitation. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed with SPSS v29.0. Comparative analysis was performed using Pearson's chi‐square and Kruskal–Wallis test (H‐test) as appropriate. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Forty‐nine (94.2%) responses were received and four incomplete responses were excluded from analysis. Structure of rehabilitation: Most of the participants were physiotherapists (n = 36/45; 80.0%) and tertiary level professionals (n = 31/45; 68.9%). Only physiotherapy service was available across all the healthcare levels. Persons with PD were mostly referred for rehabilitation at Hoehn and Yahr stage III as reported by 55.6% (n = 20/36) of the therapists. Process of rehabilitation: Most therapists treated persons with PD two times weekly (n = 19/33; 57.6%) and on individual basis (n = 29/33; 87.9%). Only 9 (27.2%) and 7 (21.2%) therapists often used clinical guidelines or outcome measures respectively in managing PD and 93.9% of the therapists had no local protocols.

Conclusion

The structures and processes needed for PD rehabilitation exist but differ across the healthcare levels and among therapists. Physiotherapy was the most common rehabilitation service available at all levels of healthcare.
Predictors of attitudes towards postgraduate education of nurses: A descriptive and correlational study
Authors: Öztürk Elif Sözeri , Arpaci Tuba , Kalkan Nevra
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study was conducted to identify the determinants of the attitudes of postgraduate nurses towards postgraduate education.

Background

Postgraduate education in nursing contributes to many individual and professional gains. For this reason, nurses' attitudes towards postgraduate education are gaining importance.

Methods

This descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 201 nurses continuing their postgraduate education in Türkiye between 01 December 2022 and 30 August 2023. The data were obtained online via Google Forms. The data was collected using the ‘Descriptive Characteristic form’ and ‘Scale of Attitude towards Postgraduate Education’. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the data.

Results

The mean age of the nurses was 28.96 ± 4.85, and most of them were continuing their master's education (65.7%). Years of the employment were negatively and the quality of postgraduate education was positively related to attitudes toward postgraduate education (p < 0.05). According to the results of the multiple linear regression analysis, the quality of the postgraduate education had a significant positive effect on attitudes towards postgraduate education (β = 0.262, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Years of employment and quality of education were related to attitudes towards postgraduate education. As the quality of education increases, nurses' attitudes towards postgraduate education increase positively. Different qualitative and quantitative studies need to be conducted on the attitudes of postgraduate nurses toward postgraduate education and the factors affecting them in Türkiye. Plans should be made to positively affect nurses' attitudes towards postgraduate education, and their professional and individual development should be supported.
Do adverse childhood experiences increase the risk of postpartum traumatic stress and depression?
Authors: Aydoğan Arzu , Karaçam Yılmaz Zeynep Dilşah , Bayrı Bingol Fadime , Can Gürkan Özlem , Altıparmak Şevval Nur
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study was conducted to determine the effect of childhood adverse experiences on the risk of postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder (PP‐PTSD) and postpartum depression (PPD).

Methods

This descriptive study was conducted with 417 mothers between 1 March and 30 April 2022. Data were collected using a demographic and obstetric information form, the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire (ACE), City Birth Trauma Scale (CityBiTS) and Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) through the Google Forms platform.

Results

The mothers participating in the study had a mean age of 30.47 ± 4.21 years, 65.9% (n = 275) had at least one ACE, 10.3% (n = 43) met all of the DSM‐5 PTSD criteria according to the CityBiTS, and 91.8% (n = 383) had at least one traumatic stress symptom. Correlation analysis revealed weak positive associations between number of ACEs and CityBiTS score (p < 0.001, r = 0.328) and EPDS score (p < 0.001, r = 0.291) and a moderate positive association between CityBiTS and EPDS scores (p < 0.001, r = 0.601). PP‐PTSD was found to be a partial mediator variable between ACE and PPD.

Conclusion

The presence of ACE in mothers was found to increase the risk of developing PPD, both alone and when combined with traumatic birth experience. Therefore, we believe that screening for a history of ACE during pregnancy, investigating traumatic birth experiences in the postpartum period, closer follow‐up of mothers with both ACE and traumatic birth experiences and increasing support systems will be beneficial in the prevention and early diagnosis of PPD.
Postpartum periods of visually impaired mothers: A qualitative study
Authors: Özcan Handan , Kiylioğlu Elvan , Çuvadar Ayşe
Published: October 2024

Background

Parenting for individuals with visual impairments introduces unique challenges, requiring meticulous planning, attention and care in daily activities and child‐rearing.

Objective

This qualitative study aims to explore the postpartum experiences of visually impaired mothers, exploring their emotional challenges, support networks and experiences in caring for infants and breastfeeding.

Methods

Twelve participants engaged in in‐depth interviews, revealing emotional difficulties such as uneasiness, anxiety, fear and challenges in baby care.

Results

The study highlights the pivotal role of family, spouses and relatives in providing crucial support, contributing significantly to overcoming challenges related to childcare and breastfeeding. Supportive family involvement emerged as a key factor in meeting the emotional needs of visually impaired mothers during the postpartum period, fostering confidence in baby care and breastfeeding and transforming the experience into a more positive one.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the importance of understanding and addressing the postpartum experiences of visually impaired mothers, advocating for more effective support programs tailored to their unique needs.
Importance of an Evaluation Phase When Increasing the Occlusal Vertical Dimension: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chantler Jennifer , Strasding Malin , Strauss Franz , Ioannidis Alexis , Naenni Nadja
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess whether an evaluation period is necessary for patient and clinical success when increasing the occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) for a full mouth rehabilitation.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was conducted in six databases: MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, CENTRAL, VHL, and EMBASE. The eligibility criteria of this systematic review used the PICO framework to address the following research question: “In dentate adults requiring an increase in occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) (P), is an evaluation period of the new OVD (I) superior to no evaluation period (C) in terms of success (O)?” Study characteristics, survival, and success rates were extracted from each article. No language restrictions were applied. Study quality was appraised using Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2 tool and Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) according to the study design.

Results

The electronic search yielded 1188 titles after duplicates were removed. One RCT and 103 non‐comparative articles were found relevant to the search question. Out of the 103 articles, 80 had an evaluation phase and 23 did not. The included RCT revealed that removable devices tended to cause chewing difficulties, unclear speech, and esthetic discomfort. Therefore, the use of a removable appliance to functionally or esthetically evaluate OVD was not indicated prior to the definitive treatment. Esthetics was the highest reported parameter preoperatively for the non‐comparative studies, at 85% with an evaluation and 86% without.

Conclusion

At present, there is lack of evidence that an evaluation period improves clinical and patient‐reported outcomes when increasing OVD for full mouth rehabilitations. Thus, an increase in OVD can be successful with or without an evaluation phase.

Clinical Significance

The evaluation phase helps the clinician manage patient expectations and assist with the treatment sequencing. This phase is most effective with fixed restoration, such as temporary crowns or adhesive restorations. However, there is limited evidence that this phase improves clinical or patient‐reported outcomes.
Zircon Coupled Dissolution–Precipitation Replacement During Melt–Rock Interaction Modifies Chemical Signatures Resulting in Misleading Ages
Authors: Daczko Nathan R. , Elliott Victoria , Piazolo Sandra , Hao Kevin
Published: October 2024

Melt migration through Earth's crust drives well‐documented melt–rock reactions, locally changing rock assemblage and geochemistry. However, melt–zircon interaction remains understudied. We report on three zircon‐melt interaction events from the Pembroke Granulite, New Zealand. Primary zircon from gabbroic gneiss which was subject to minor post‐emplacement melt migration and primary zircon from younger dykes exhibit straightforward microstructures, microchemistry, and age data. In contrast, zircon from melt‐mediated reaction halos adjacent to the dykes and from melt‐fluxed high‐strain zones display dissolution modification of grains, micro‐porosity and blurred or truncated internal zoning typical of replacement by coupled dissolution‐precipitation. Replaced zircon domains show changed rare earth element patterns and redistributed or lost radiogenic Pb that generates ambiguous apparent spot date arrays, smeared over tens of millions of years. We conclude that the metamorphism and three melt–rock interaction events were brief, and the arrays misrepresent the true age and duration of the metamorphism. Pb‐loss persisted beyond the metamorphism, with porosity and inclusions formed during coupled dissolution‐precipitation making replaced zircon domains more susceptible to subsequent Pb‐loss compared to the structurally intact, primary magmatic zircon in the host gabbroic gneiss or dykes. We recommend conducting high‐resolution microstructural investigations upon recognition of spot date arrays observed in single samples to rule out the possibility of spurious arrays resulting from coupled dissolution‐precipitation.
Criminal enforcement of copyright in India
Authors: Chaudhary Apoorv Kumar
Published: October 2024

The Supreme Court of India, in the recent case of Knit Pro International v. State of NCT of Delhi, clarified that the offence under S. 63 of the Copyright Act, 1957 is cognizable and nonbailable. This decision is likely to have far‐reaching consequences in the field of copyright enforcement. This article is meant to examine the current state of criminal enforcement of Copyright in India, its interface with freedom of speech and expression and the likely impact of the said judgement on copyright enforcement in India. The article starts with an overview of criminal remedies under the Copyright Act, 1957 and the criminal procedure applicable to those remedies. It then analyses the provisions in light of five factors which are considered crucial in criminalizing an offence—seriousness, proportionality, legal soundness, enforceability and alternative remedies. The article concludes that the current regime for criminal enforcement of copyright leans heavily in favour of enforcers and requires a change to ensure a balance between copyright and the right to freedom of speech and expression.
Iran's Neighborhood Policy: Parameters, Objectives, and Obstacles
Authors: Kamrava Mehran , Bagheri Dolatabadi Ali
Published: October 2024

In April 2024, Iran launched its first‐ever military strikes on Israeli soil. While the United States and its allies see Tehran as potentially stoking the Gaza war and spreading the conflict across the region, the Islamic Republic has actually drawn its neighbors closer and enjoys friendlier relations with them today than at nearly any point in its 45‐year history. This rapprochement had been pursued informally by successive Iranian administrations since the late 1980s. However, it was formally adopted as the “good‐neighbor policy” by President Ebrahim Raisi, who served from 2021 until his death in a May 2024 helicopter crash. Raisi's successor, Masoud Pezeshkian, has both the desire to continue the policy and a favorable regional environment within which to do so. Despite serious challenges, Iran has improved engagement with longtime rivals like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE. Even cross‐border clashes with the Taliban in Afghanistan have been downplayed in favor of dialogue. Neighborly policies are impermanent. A number of structural and political obstacles could change Iran's calculations, but the approach is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.
Clubs and events: Two models of performance in studies of sport and national solidarity
Authors: Kaplan Danny
Published: October 2024

This study distinguishes between two performances of solidarity—a performer–audience structure and a network structure—illustrated through a review of two case studies from the field of sport: a cross‐national survey of football fans and a historical study of French cycling clubs. Research on nationhood, sport and performance has centred mainly on public events and how they generate focused attention to foster mass solidarity. Scholars have overlooked an alternative model of performance situated in horizontal networks and interpersonal interactions staged in front of a third party, such as found in clubs. Distinguishing between these performance models in sport and beyond can further our understanding of the relations between identity and solidarity in studies of nationhood. Whereas in the former model, expressions of solidarity mainly reaffirm pre‐existing feelings of national identity; in the latter model, solidarity is performative: it does not simply represent social reality but serves to create it.