bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in motor learning-related structural plasticity of layer 2/3 parvalbumin-positive interneurons of the young and aged motor cortex
Authors: Davidson Andrew M. , Mejía-Gómez Hernán , Wooten Bryn M. , Marqués Sharai , Jacobowitz Michael , Ugidos Irene F. , Mostany Ricardo
Published: September 2024

Changes to neuronal connectivity are believed to be a key factor in cognitive impairments associated with normal aging. Because of its effect on activities of daily living, deficient motor control is a critical type of cognitive decline to understand. Diminished inhibitory networks in the cortex are implicated in such motor control deficits, pointing to the connectivity of inhibitory cortical interneurons as an important area for study. Here, we used chronic two-photon microscopy to track the structural plasticity of en passant boutons (EPBs) of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the mouse motor cortex in the first longitudinal, in vivo study of inhibitory interneuron synapses in the context of aging. Young (3–5 months) and aged (23–28 months) mice underwent training on the accelerating rotarod to evoke motor learning-induced structural plasticity. Our analysis reveals that, in comparison with axons from young mice, those from aged mice have fewer EPBs at baseline that also tend to be larger in size. Aged axons also express learning-related structural plasticity—like new bouton stabilization and bouton enlargement—that is less persistent than that of young axons. This study reveals striking baseline differences in young and aged axon morphology as well as differences in the deployment of learning-related structural plasticity across axons.
Multisite usability and safety trial of an immersive virtual reality implementation of a work organization system for autistic learners: implications for technology design
Authors: Herrera Gerardo , Vera Lucía , Pérez-Fuster Patricia , López-Fernández Arturo , López Álvaro , Savaş-Taşkesen Ümit , Newbutt Nigel
Published: September 2024

The increased availability of low-cost, standalone and immersive virtual reality (VR) can facilitate adoption in autism education. An immersive VR implementation of the individual work system (IWS) from the TEACCH® approach has the potential to be a safe and predictable environment for autistic learners with or without intellectual disability. This study is a multi-site usability and safety trial examining an immersive VR implementation of the IWS co-designed with autistic pupils and their teachers from three educational centers in the UK, Spain, and Turkey. Twenty-one autistic students aged between 6 and 17 years were involved in the study, six of whom had an intellectual disability. The students tested a total of 164 customized tasks. All participants were able to finish all the tasks. No significant safety issues were identified. The student’s average score on the SUS Usability Scale was 85.36 points. A linear regression analysis showed that autistic children with intellectual disability scored significantly lower on feasibility than children without intellectual disability (p < 0.01) across all locations. This study concluded that an immersive VR-IWS proved usable and safe for the 21 students. However, our findings highlight the need for further adaptations and further research on those with an intellectual disability before recommending universal use. Our findings also have implications for game design for learners with special educational needs.
Beyond the Guidelines: Perspectives on Management of Pediatric Patients with Hypertriglyceridemia
Authors: Gagnon Charles A. , Ashraf Ambika P.
Published: September 2024

Purpose of Review

To provide a comprehensive overview of hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) in youth, identifying gaps in categorizing triglyceride (TG) levels and management strategies, and exploring new therapies for TG reduction.

Recent Findings

Non-fasting TG levels as important cardiovascular (CV) risk indicators, with HTG's pathophysiology involving genetic and secondary factors affecting TG metabolism. Emerging treatments, including those affecting the lipoprotein lipase complex and inhibiting proteins like apoC3 and ANGPTL3, show promise.

The review highlights the need for specific management approaches for youth, the significance of non-fasting TG levels, and the potential of new therapies in reducing CV and pancreatitis risks, advocating for further research on these treatments' efficacy and safety.
The role of digital cues in online banter: a systematic review of adolescents’ and emerging adults’ views, uses and interpretations
Authors: Badrakh Altantsetseg , Buglass Sarah L. , Betts Lucy R. , Abell Loren
Published: September 2024

The potential ambiguity and aggression related to banter-type humorous interactions may lead to misinterpretations and escalations such as perceived bullying, especially in the online context. A way to minimise such risks during online banter is the use of digital visual cues such as emojis, emoticons, GIFs, personal photos, videos, etc. This review summarised and synthesised the literature to understand how adolescents and emerging adults perceive and interpret the role of digital visual cues in online banter/humour and how they actually use these cues in banter-type online interactions. From the 12,372 papers identified, 17 papers were included, and the relevant narrative data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (Clarke & Braun, 2021). Four themes were generated, including, (1) Digital cues are an essential part of digital banter, (2) Digital cues are ambiguous, (3) Harmful online banter containing digital cues, and (4) Personal and contextual effects. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Microtubule choreography: spindle self-organization during cell division
Authors: Sridhara Amruta , Shimamoto Yuta
Published: September 2024

During cell division, the network of microtubules undergoes massive rearrangement to self-organize into the spindle, a bipolar structure essential for accurate chromosome segregation. This structure ensures the stable transmission of the genome from the mother cell to two daughter cells, yet the process by which the ordered architecture emerges from a collection of protein “parts” remains a mystery. In this review, we focus on several key spindle proteins, describing how they move, crosslink, and grow microtubules in vitro and contribute to the spindle’s structural organization. We categorize these proteins into groups, such as transporters, bundlers, and nucleators, to highlight their functional roles. We also present an advanced perspective on the spindle’s complex polymer architecture and its temporal assembly order in cellular contexts. This in situ level information should guide the minimal reconstitution of the spindle, helping to elucidate the biophysical principles underlying essential cytoskeletal self-organization.
Sex Education Among Recent High School Graduates
Authors: Mollen Debra , Klann Elyssa M. , Hinton Marisa , Vidican Madison , Romines Ashton
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Sexuality education varies considerably from abstinence-only to comprehensive sex education and can influence knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors about sexuality. We examined the relations among types of sex education, sex-positive and purity culture attitudes, and sexual and reproductive health knowledge among a group of diverse high school graduates.

Methods

This study captured the sexuality knowledge and attitudes pursuant to the type of sex education received among a sample of 1005 high school graduates. Data were collected in the summer of 2023. We used ANOVAs, MANOVA, and linear regressions to examine relations among sex education type, sexual and reproductive health knowledge, sex-positive and purity culture beliefs, and participants’ self-reported readiness for their sexual lives.

Results

Participants who reported receiving abstinence-only sex education endorsed more purity culture beliefs and fewer sex-positive beliefs than those who experienced comprehensive sex education. Sexual and reproductive health knowledge was poor. Participants who experienced comprehensive sex education rated that education as better preparing them for a healthy sexual life compared to those who had abstinence-only education.

Conclusions

Findings reveal the relation of sex education type on attitudes toward sexuality and self-reported readiness for adults’ sexual lives.

Policy Implications

Policymakers, educators, and others who work with young people should champion sex-positive, comprehensive sex education. More work is needed to ensure sex education yields an informed public who can navigate their sexual lives effectively.
Phage therapy: A novel approach against multidrug-resistant pathogens
Authors: Kapoor Arushi , Mudaliar Samriti Balaji , Bhat Vyasraj G. , Chakraborty Ishita , Prasad Alevoor Srinivas Bharath , Mazumder Nirmal
Published: September 2024

The rapid rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms has created a critical need for alternative treatment options. Phage therapy is gaining attention as an effective way to fight bacterial infections by using lytic bacteriophages to specifically target and kill harmful bacteria. This review discusses several phage therapeutic options and emphasizes new developments in phage biology. Phage treatment has proven to be successful against MDR bacteria, as evidenced by multiple human clinical trials that indicate favorable results in treating a range of diseases caused by these pathogens. Despite these promising results, challenges such as phage resistance, regulatory hurdles, and the need for standardized treatment protocols remain. To effectively combat MDR bacterial infections, future research must focus on enhancing phage effectiveness, guaranteeing safety for human usage and incorporating phage therapy into clinical practice.
Challenges and opportunities in power electronics design for all- and hybrid-electric aircraft: a qualitative review and outlook
Authors: Radomsky Lukas , Keilmann Robert , Ferch Dirk , Mallwitz Regine
Published: September 2024

Power electronics are crucial for the electrification of aviation. Increased performance requirements in this application area also affect the design of power electronic components. In combination with the application-specific challenges prevalent in aviation, such as altitude-dependent influences and EMC requirements, this necessitates exploring the design space with a new perspective. Design approaches previously considered unsuitable for other application areas can now provide solutions that excel in key performance indicators, such as efficiency, power density, and reliability. In this context, this paper discusses the power electronics design space and different degrees of innovation at different design levels.
Transitie van kinderurologie naar urologie voor volwassenen: een gezamenlijke uitdaging
Authors: van Staa AnneLoes , Stillebroer Alexander B.
Published: September 2024

Samenvatting

Veel urologische aandoeningen op de kinderleeftijd vragen om levenslange opvolging. De transitie van kinder- naar volwassenenzorg is echter nog lang niet altijd goed geregeld. Daardoor kunnen jongeren uit beeld verdwijnen en onnodige complicaties ontwikkelen. We beschrijven de belangrijkste onderdelen van een transitieprogramma van kinderurologische zorg naar de volwassenen urologie aan de hand van de aanbevelingen uit de FMS-kwaliteitsstandaard (2022). Voorbereiding op zelfstandigheid en zelfmanagement van jongeren, een transitiecoördinator en warme overdracht en ontvangst zijn daarbij essentieel. Noodzakelijke randvoorwaarden zijn een gemotiveerd team van zorgverleners uit de kinderzorg en volwassenenzorg, naast ondersteuning vanuit het management, ondersteunende ICT en financiële vergoeding van extra zorg. Investeren in een soepele overgang van kinder- naar volwassenenzorg is geen luxe, maar een onderdeel van goede, persoonsgerichte urologische zorg.
Dysfunctional voiding en het onderbelichte belang van transitiezorg
Authors: van de Wetering Eline H. M. , van Geen Frank-Jan , Nieuwhof-Leppink Anka J.
Published: September 2024

Samenvatting

Dysfunctional voiding (DV) is het onvrijwillig aanspannen van de bekkenbodem tijdens mictie en is een aandoening die zowel kinderen als volwassenen treft. DV kent een multifactoriële oorzaak, waarbij onder andere een incorrecte toilethouding en genetische predispositie een rol spelen. De ontwikkeling van DV is onduidelijk, mede door gebrek aan consensus over definitie en diagnose. Enkele onderzoeken suggereren dat DV kan persisteren ondanks behandeling op kinderleeftijd, of dat de diagnose DV als kind de kans op lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) op volwassen leeftijd groter maakt. Bovendien blijken LUTS het risico op mentale problemen te verhogen. Opvallend is de uitblijvende zorgvraag onder met name volwassen patiënten. Dit benadrukt de noodzaak van bewustwording en actieve opvolging door behandelaren tijdens de transitiefase, gezien de potentiële risico’s voor patiënten op LUTS en mentale problemen. Er is meer onderzoek nodig om dit fenomeen te verduidelijken.
Spina bifida bij volwassenen
Authors: Jansen Sanne L. , Stolwijk-Swüste Janneke M.
Published: September 2024

Samenvatting

Spina bifida (SB) is een aanlegstoornis van het centrale zenuwstelsel. Door een sluitingsdefect van de neurale buis is er sprake van een congenitale dwarslaesie, die gepaard kan gaan met afwijkingen aan de hersenen. Door foliumzuursuppletie en antenatale screening tijdens de zwangerschap is de prevalentie van SB afgenomen. Dankzij verbetering van de – ook urologische – zorg is de levensverwachting toegenomen en de levenskwaliteit verbeterd. De zorg voor volwassenen met SB hoort levenslang te zijn en dient plaats te vinden in een multidisciplinair team, met hierin een uroloog met ervaring op het gebied van diagnostiek en behandeling van neurogeen blaaslijden en bijkomende problemen, zoals infecties, incontinentie, urolithiasis en maligniteiten.
Successful treatment of severe renal failure caused by malignant hypertension using a combination of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors: a case report
Authors: Harada Wataru , Maeoka Yujiro , Takahashi Akira , Yoshida Mahoko , Osaki Yosuke , Ishiuchi Naoki , Sasaki Kensuke , Masaki Takao
Published: September 2024

Marked activation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) plays an important role in malignant hypertension (MHT) by worsening hypertension and renal function. The rates of readmission for severe hypertension and cardiovascular disease in such emergencies are high, suggesting that suppression of the RAAS may be inadequate during the acute phase in some cases. This report presents a case of MHT complicated with renal insufficiency (creatinine 3.93 mg/dL) and massive proteinuria, in which antihypertensive therapy, including an angiotensin receptor blocker, aliskiren, and spironolactone, normalized blood pressure (BP) and preserved renal function. Plasma renin activity was extremely high (131.9 ng/mL/h) on admission but normalized within almost 2 weeks. Although aliskiren and spironolactone were discontinued before discharge, BP was well controlled and renal function was further improved (creatinine 1.14 mg/dL) at follow-up 24 months later. This case of renal failure induced by MHT was successfully treated with a combination of RAAS inhibitors during the acute phase. The controlled BP and improved renal function in this patient suggest that adequate suppression of the RAAS cascade during the acute phase is potentially effective in terms of breaking the vicious cycle of MHT with hyperreninemia.
Nutrition and Golf Performance: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: O’Donnell Amy , Murray Andrew , Nguyen Alice , Salmon Thomas , Taylor Sam , Morton James P. , Close Graeme L.
Published: September 2024

Background

Golf is played both recreationally and professionally by approximately 66.6 million people worldwide. Despite the potential for nutrition to influence golf performance, research in this area is somewhat limited.

Objective

To identify the existing literature regarding nutrition and golf and where the current research gaps lie.

Design

Scoping review. Online databases were used to retrieve data from 2003 to the present day.

Data Sources

A three-step search strategy identified relevant primary and secondary articles as well as grey literature. Published and unpublished articles in the English language, identified by searching electronic databases (ProQuest Central, Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus and PubMed) and reference searching.

Review Methods

Relevant identified studies were screened for final inclusion. Data were extracted using a standardised tool to create a descriptive analysis and a thematic summary. In summary, studies were included if they focused on nutrition, hydration, energy requirements, supplements, or body composition in relation to golf.

Results and Discussion

Our initial search found 3616 relevant articles. Eighty-two of these articles were included for the scoping review. Nutrition has the potential to impact golf performance in areas including the maintenance of energy levels, cognitive function, and body composition. Currently, there is limited research available discussing the effects of nutrition interventions related specifically to golf performance.

Conclusion

This scoping review highlights that more work is needed to provide golfers and practitioners with golf-specific nutrition research. The key areas for future golf-specific nutrition research include nutrition on cognitive performance, body composition, energy requirements, supplementation, and the potential role of nutrition for the travelling golfer. Systematic reviews could also be used to identify future priorities for nutrition and golf research.
Agrobiodiversity Conservation Policies: Insights from an Integrated Micro-macro Economic Model in Ethiopia
Authors: Gotor Elisabetta , Orecchia Carlo , Pallante Giacomo , Fadda Carlo , Salvatici Luca
Published: September 2024

National strategies aiming to enhance agricultural productivity in sub-Saharan Africa have traditionally focused on encouraging the adoption of improved modern crop varieties. This approach led to genetic erosion and reduced option value for bioprospecting, an unintended consequence of the decline of locally conserved traditional varieties. Governments are often left with poor guidance to evaluate the costs and benefits of this strategy. In this paper, we propose a methodological framework for assessing agricultural policies based on local agrobiodiversity conservation. In particular, we modify a computable general equilibrium model with trade to account for the land allocated to traditional and improved modern varieties as input for the agricultural sector. As a case study we select the Ethiopian durum wheat. Several sources of data at macro, micro and agronomic levels are adopted to estimate parameters and economic effects. Accounting for climate change and technological projections up to 2050, results of a counterfactual scenario show that when policy-driven breeding programs in specific agroecological niches are implemented, they simultaneously achieves conservation and food production goals. The findings underscore the need for policy interventions aimed at promoting context-specific strategies that consider conservation and production objectives within the broader agricultural landscape.
Engineering consensus in static networks with unknown disruptors
Authors: Bouis Agathe , Lowe Christopher , Clark Ruaridh A. , Macdonald Malcolm
Published: September 2024

Distributed control can increase system scalability, flexibility, and redundancy. Foundational to such scalability via decentralisation is consensus formation, by which decision-making and coordination are achieved. However, decentralised multi-agent systems are inherently vulnerable to disruption. To develop a resilient consensus approach, inspiration is taken from the study of social dynamics; specifically, the Deffuant Model which evaluates the impact of tolerance in social systems. A dynamic protocol is presented enabling efficient consensus to be reached with an unknown number of disruptors present within a multi-agent system. By inverting typical social tolerance, agents filter out extremist non-standard opinions that would drive them away from consensus. This approach allows distributed systems to deal with unknown disruptions, without knowledge of the network topology or the numbers and behaviours of the disruptors, a general requirement of other resilient consensus algorithms. A disruptor-agnostic algorithm is particularly suitable to real-world applications where information regarding disruptors or network properties is typically unknown. Faster, tighter, and more robust convergence can be achieved across a range of scenarios with the social dynamics inspired algorithm presented herein, when compared with Mean-Subsequence-Reduced-type methods.
The Manifest and Latent Structures of Medicalization and Psychologization in Lay Depression Discourses — A Word Embedding Analysis of Online Forums
Authors: Sik Domonkos , Rakovics Márton , Németh Renáta
Published: September 2024

Online depression forums are emerging platforms of the e-mental health sector. Exploring the ongoing lay discourses has the potential of better understanding first-person accounts of depression and developing new technologies of health promotion. Based on these premises, the article analyzes the hypothesis concerning the discursive transformation of sadness into depression (elaborated by Horwitz and Wakefield), that is the ‘medicalization’ and ‘psychologization’ of social suffering. While these generic theoretical diagnoses describe a long-term discursive transformation, they rely on a limited methodological toolset as they are based on the retrospective examination of key discursive sources (such as the consequent generations of DSM). While these analyses certainly have a heuristic value, their conclusions require further empirical testing. Our analysis focuses on the largest English-language online depression forums, while relying on word-embedding modelling. Our results do not simply reinforce or falsify the original hypotheses; instead, they imply a more complex model: on manifest level, the medicalization or psychologization of social suffering is detectable only partially; however, on a latent level, many of these solutions still follow either an instrumental-medical or a supportive-psychological logic. Based on these results, the reinforcement of online forums hosting social suffering discourses of depression is suggested.
Enhancing Security and Transparency in Online Voting through Blockchain Decentralization
Authors: Singh Inderpreet , Kaur Amandeep , Agarwal Parul , Idrees Sheikh Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Most existing e-government services are centralized and rely heavily on human control. This centralized approach makes the system more susceptible to external attacks and compromises data integrity by rogue insiders. Additionally, relying on individuals to monitor and control workflows introduces errors and corruption risks. In order to guarantee security and transparency, this study proposes an automated and decentralized online voting system that makes use of blockchain technology. Compared to conventional voting techniques, it is more efficient and cost-effective, because it eliminates the need of intermediaries. The primary goal of this research is to use blockchain technology to develop a transparent and safe online voting system. In this paper, a decentralized voting system will be developed utilizing ethereum blockchain and smart contracts to ensure the voting process’s integrity. The system can be evaluated with simulated voting data to reflect real-world scenarios, focusing on security, scalability, and user-friendliness. The study also explores potential future enhancements, such as incorporating biometric authentication to further improve accessibility and security. The insights provided will be valuable to policymakers, researchers, and practitioners involved in the development, implementation, and regulation of blockchain-based voting systems.
mGlu4R, mGlu7R, and mGlu8R allosteric modulation for treating acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Domin Helena , Burnat Grzegorz
Published: September 2024

Neuroprotection, defined as safeguarding neurons from damage and death by inhibiting diverse pathological mechanisms, continues to be a promising approach for managing a range of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including acute conditions such as ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) and chronic neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). These pathophysiological conditions involve excessive glutamatergic (Glu) transmission activity, which can lead to excitotoxicity. Inhibiting this excessive Glu transmission has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating the CNS disorders mentioned. In particular, ligands of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including metabotropic glutamatergic receptors (mGluRs), have been recognized as promising options for inhibiting excessive Glu transmission. This review discusses the complex interactions of mGlu receptors with their subtypes, including the formation of homo- and heterodimers, which may vary in function and pharmacology depending on their protomer composition. Understanding these intricate details of mGlu receptor structure and function enhances researchers’ ability to develop targeted pharmacological interventions, potentially offering new therapeutic avenues for neurological and psychiatric disorders. This review also summarizes the current knowledge of the neuroprotective potential of ligands targeting group III mGluRs in preclinical cellular (in vitro) and animal (in vivo) models of ischemic stroke, TBI, PD, AD, and MS. In recent years, experiments have shown that compounds, especially those activating mGlu4 or mGlu7 receptors, exhibit protective effects in experimental ischemia models. The discovery of allosteric ligands for specific mGluR subtypes has led to reports suggesting that group III mGluRs may be promising targets for neuroprotective therapy in PD (mGlu4R), TBI (mGlu7R), and MS (mGlu8R).

Graphical Abstract
Surface ruptures of the 2022 Guanshan-Chihshang earthquakes in central Longitudinal Valley area, eastern Taiwan
Authors: Wang Yu , Wu Sheng-Han , Chou Hoi Ling Birdie , Li Yi-Yu , Cheng Wai San , Ho Andrew , Chen Jian-Ming , Liu Sze-Chieh , Hsieh Chia-Yun , Duan Siang , Saw Myat Min  , Ei Mhone Nathar Myo  , Tsai Yuan-Lu , Liang Nai-Wun , Liao Jhih-Hao , Lam Tsz Yau Amundsen , Chang En-Wei , Shyu J. Bruce H.
Published: September 2024

The Mw 6.4 and 6.8 Guanshan-Chihshang earthquakes occurred on 17 and 18 September 2022 resulted in prominent surface ruptures within the Longitudinal Valley in eastern Taiwan, particularly along the Yuli fault. Approximately 18 h after the mainshock, we began to document the surface rupture near Yuli Town. Our result suggests the surface rupture formed a confined single left-lateral trace in the town of Yuli, characterized by a series of en échelon right-stepping left-lateral faulting geometry. The rupture of 2022 roughly matches the locations of 1951 surface ruptures inside Yuli Town, with a similar amount of left-lateral cross-fault displacement. North and South of the Yuli residential area, we identified several sections of the surface rupture distributed in the water-saturated paddy fields. The maximum left-lateral displacement recorded across the rupture can reach 1.4 m just south of Yuli, with the fault scarp resembling a high-angle west-dipping fault geometry. In addition to the co-seismic surface ruptures, our repeating cross-fault measurements show significant post-seismic shallow after-slip along the Yuli fault. The amount of post-seismic deformation within 3 months after the mainshock is close to, or even higher than the co-seismic cross-fault displacement, consistent with local witness accounts and post-event field photos which showed continuous damage and displacement of building floors and roads after the earthquake. Such shallow post-seismic slips were also observed along the main fault trace in the 2014 South Napa earthquake, and likely represent the shallow elastoplastic behavior of the sub-vertical fault in the young alluvial sediments.
Whose democratization matters? Understanding the effects of regime change on normative changes in ASEAN
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang
Published: September 2024

This article aims to elucidate the varying effects of democratization in ASEAN members on the normative changes in the core principles of the “ASEAN Way.” Utilizing a regional-centric approach that emphasizes ASEAN members’ agency, the article posits that two critical variables shape the changing trajectory of ASEAN norms: ASEAN members' democratic performances and their regional status. While an ASEAN member’s democratic performance influences its willingness to advocate for normative changes, its regional status is also crucial in determining its capability to implement changes by navigating the divergent interests among ASEAN members. Only the ASEAN member with a high-quality democratic performance at home and recognized regional leadership can effectively bring about normative changes to ASEAN norms. Otherwise, either the domestic democratic deficit or a lack of leadership status will hinder the ASEAN members’ efforts to promote normative changes. Using the process-tracing method, the article empirically focuses on the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia for comparative case studies. The findings reveal that the Philippines’ poor democratic performance since the democratic restoration in 1986 has hindered its motivation to push for normative changes in ASEAN, rendering the Philippines a reluctant promoter. Although Thailand has made notable achievements in democratic consolidation since the downfall of junta rule in 1992, its lack of regional leadership has greatly limited its capability to reconcile the divergent interests among ASEAN members, resulting in the failure of its “flexible engagement” initiative. Conversely, Indonesia, with a high-quality democratic performance at home and bolstered by its regional leadership status, successfully brought significant changes to ASEAN norms by facilitating the ASEAN Charter signed in 2007.
Nigerian migrants vulnerability under ECOWAS migration framework in Ghana
Authors: Yemisi Olawale
Published: September 2024

Migration has become one of the most pronounced global issues of the twenty-first century. Migration has been recognised as an essential driver for accessing economic opportunities, development, social upward mobility and regional integration. Hence, under the aegis of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), concerted efforts have been directed to pursuing policies such as the Free Protocol Movement, visa-free and borderless economic communities towards deepened regional integration. However, despite ECOWAS laudable initiatives, migrants in West Africa are faced with migration securitisation and new nationalism from their host states. Securitisation of migration connotes that migration is perceived as an existential security threat to the host state and thus deserves at least some control and, at best, stopping. Also, a new form of nationalism has endangered immigrant (non-citizen) activities in their host countries, especially with the prism of “son of the soil” versus “immigrants or strangers.” Both have resulted in the expulsion, deportation, and harassment of immigrants from their host countries to their countries of origin. Using the Nigeria-Ghana relations problem, the article explores the causes and crises attached to migration securitisation and new nationalism. The article also interrogates the ECOWAS migration framework within the context of its appropriateness for addressing immigrants’ vulnerability.
Near and Dear? If animal welfare concepts do not apply to species at a great phylogenetic distance from humans, what concepts might serve as alternatives?
Authors: Arndt Saskia S , van der Staay F Josef , Goerlich Vivian C
Published: September 2024

A wide range of animal taxa, including vertebrates and invertebrates, are controlled or kept by humans. They may be used as pets, for recreation, sport and hobbies, as working animals, as producers of animal-derived (food) products or as biomedical models in research. There is a need for clear guidance on the treatment of animals, regardless of their phylogenetic distance from humans. Current animal welfare concepts, which emphasise animal sentience and the ability of animals to experience negative or positive mental states, are limited in scope to a small proportion of the animal kingdom, as the vast majority of species are (currently) thought to lack sentience. We discuss four options for addressing the question of which basic concept(s) could be used to derive guidelines for the treatment of animal species, sentient or non-sentient: (1) alternative concepts tailored to specific groups of species; (2) ‘welfare’ concepts not presupposing sentience; (3) the precautionary principle; or (4) the concept of animal integrity. Since questions regarding the appropriate treatment of animals, including species with a large phylogenetic distance from humans, have an ethical/moral dimension, we also address who counts morally and how much, and how animals should be treated given their moral status. We suggest that the concept of animal integrity, possibly complemented and extended by the concept of habitat/ecosystem integrity, is suitable for application to all species. However, a current concept of animal welfare should serve as the primary basis for guidance on how to treat species that are sentient and capable of experiencing emotions.
Expanding pathways to clinical and translational research training with stackable microcredentials: A pilot study
Authors: Norman Marie K. , Radomski Thomas R. , Mayowski Colleen A. , Zimmerman-Cooney MaLinda , Crevasse Isabel , Rubio Doris M.
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

The proportion of physician-investigators involved in biomedical research is shrinking even as the need for high-quality, interdisciplinary research is growing. Building the physician-investigator workforce is thus a pressing concern. Flexible, “light-weight” training modalities can help busy physician-investigators prepare for key stages of the research life cycle and personalize their learning to their own needs. Such training can also support researchers from diverse backgrounds and lighten the work of mentors.

Materials and Methods:

The University of Pittsburgh’s Institute for Clinical Research Education designed the Stackables Microcredentials in Clinical and Translational Research (Stackables) program to provide flexible, online training to supplement and enhance formal training programs. This training utilizes a self-paced, just-in-time format along with an interactive, storytelling approach to sustain learner engagement. Learners earn badges for completing modules and certificates for completing “stacks” in key competency areas. In this paper, we describe the genesis and development of the Stackables program and report the results of a pilot study in which we evaluated changes in confidence in key skill areas from pretest to posttest, as well as engagement and perceived effectiveness.

Results:

Our Stackables pilot study showed statistically significant gains in learner confidence in all skill areas from pretest to posttest. Pilot participants reported that the module generated high levels of engagement and enhanced their skills, knowledge, and interest in the subject.

Conclusions:

Stackables provide an important complement to formal coursework by focusing on discrete skill areas and allowing learners to access the training they need when they need it.
FROM DISCRETION TO EXPERT JUDGEMENT: RECASTING SEDIMENTED CONCEPTS IN ADMINISTRATIVE LAW
Authors: Ruiz-Tagle Samuel
Published: September 2024

This article re-examines the traditional account of administrative decision-making under wide conferrals of statutory power. The received wisdom in such cases is that public officials exercise “discretion”, usually defined as freedom of choice. Based on a doctrinal study of the English planning system and related case law, this paper contends that the notion of discretion as choice obscures one of the defining characteristics of modern government. That is, the making of public decisions tackling practical problems with intelligent and expert judgement under legal standards set out in legislation and further developed by the courts. More widely, the paper discusses the foundational role of tacit knowledge and decision-making expertise in public administration.
The Surprising Survival of Constitutionalism in the Caudillo Republic of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, 1836–1845
Authors: Jockyman Roithmann André
Published: September 2024

The caudillo strongman remains emblematic of Latin American authoritarianism, but scholarship has seldom reflected on the semantic shifts that this concept suffered over time and its implications for the history of political thought. Numerous political experiments have been marginalized from historical and state-building narratives as the irrelevant work of caudillos, such as the short-lived Rio Grandense Republic in southern Brazil (1836–45). By explaining the Rio Grandense caudillos’ engagement with constitutionalism, this article argues that ‘caudillo’ can be a useful category of analysis if historically contextualized. The article thus reconsiders the history of political thought and state-building in Latin America and beyond in the age of revolutions, suggesting the serious need to scrutinize ‘failed’ states and revolutions. This argument is pursued in three steps. First, the article describes shifting understandings and usages of ‘caudillo’ in nineteenth-century Brazil and neighbouring River Plate states. Second, it analyses the Rio Grandense Republic’s 1842–3 constituent assembly and the novel electoral procedures it employed. Third, it examines the never-promulgated constitutional draft produced by its assemblymen. This constitutional draft is then compared to contemporary River Plate and Brazilian constitutions and its rejection is explained through the assemblymen’s divergent understandings of constitutionalism and democracy.
Die Erde erben: Schöpfung in der Didache – Terminologische, Theologische und Schöpfungsethische Aspekte
Authors: Shoukry Zacharias
Published: September 2024

German Abstract

Die Untersuchung der Schöpfungsthematik in der Didache ist ein Forschungsdesiderat. Daher werden Übersetzungen und Kommentare daraufhin überprüft, welche griechischen Wörter an welchen Stellen schöpfungstheologisch interpretiert werden. Dieses vorläufige Netz der Schöpfungsterminologie wird durch weitere Analysen verfeinert, um einen Gesamteindruck der Schöpfungstheologie zu gewinnen. Im schöpfungsethischen Ausblick wird die Frage herausgegriffen, wie es für die Didache zukünftig mit der Schöpfung weitergeht, was im Horizont gegenwärtiger Herausforderung besprochen wird. Die Didache hat weder ein vordergründig ökologisches Interesse noch eine pauschale Abwertung der gegenwärtigen Schöpfung. Dennoch steckt in der Didache ein ökotheologisches Potenzial.
Lissonema sicki, an emerging air sac nematode of European owls: introduction, host switching and rapid establishment on a Mediterranean island
Authors: Jaume-Ramis Sebastià , Delgado-Serra Sofía , Miquel Jordi , Negre Nieves , Mameli Ugo , Feliu Carles , Paredes-Esquivel Claudia
Published: September 2024

In recent years, air sac parasitic helminths have been reported to cause severe disease in birds. In addition, various species appear to be expanding and infecting new avian hosts in various regions worldwide. In this context, an air sac nematode was initially detected in 2014 infecting the Eurasian scops owl, hospitalized in the local wildlife hospital in Mallorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). Years later, the parasite was detected in 2 other owl species. Air sac nematodes had never been reported in the Mallorcan Strigiformes before. A comprehensive molecular and morphological characterization analysis, including scanning electron microscopy, was required for species confirmation. The species was identified as Lissonema sicki, a parasite infrequently reported in South American owls. Since its first introduction to Mallorca, it has dramatically increased in prevalence in hospitalized birds, being highly prevalent in the Eurasian scops owl (41%), in the long-eared owl (11%) and in the barn owl (4%). The introduction pathway of this parasite to Europe remains unknown. This discovery underscores the expanding range and impact of L. sicki, emphasizing the importance of ongoing surveillance and research to comprehend and manage the implications of its emergence in new territories.
Impacts of fire and flooding on sediment carbon storage in a large, forested floodplain
Authors: Treby Sarah , Grover Samantha P , Carnell Paul E
Published: September 2024

Natural disturbances influence wetland carbon cycling, and fire is a key driver of terrestrial carbon stocks. However, the influence of fire on wetland carbon cycling remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated how prescribed fire and wildfire impact soil carbon storage in a forested floodplain of south-eastern Australia. We sampled four areas within Murray Valley National Park, the world’s largest river red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) stand, and compared soil carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and C:N ratios between control (unburnt in the 50 years prior to sampling), prescribed burn and wildfire-impacted floodplain areas. Mean soil C and N concentrations were 4.7% ± 0.32% and 0.36% ± 0.02%, respectively, and mean C:N ratios were 14.23 ± 0.33. Carbon concentrations and C:N were highest in control areas of the floodplain, while N concentrations were highest at wildfire-impacted areas. However, flood frequency was a stronger driver of soil C than fire disturbance. Soils at more frequently flooded areas had higher C concentrations compared to less frequently flooded areas, suggesting that resilience to C loss through fire could be enhanced through hydrological restoration. We believe this warrants further research as a potential nature-based climate measure. Mean C density data indicate soil C stocks of 9.4 Tg across Barmah-Millewa Forest, highlighting the significant carbon storage value of this ecosystem.
Self-judgment in international law: Between judicialization and pushback
Authors: Eichberger Fabian
Published: September 2024

The legally binding unilateral application of norms holds potential for abuse. Nonetheless, self-judgment is alive and kicking. Self-judgment language commonly features in treaties and states frequently invoke their authority to ‘self-judge’ sensitive issues, such as matters related to national security, before international judicial bodies. In many of these cases, the controversy whether a norm has a self-judgment quality or not has been decisive for the outcome of the dispute. Yet, the meaning and consequences of self-judgment remain contested.

This article develops self-judgment as the authoritative application of international legal norms by states. It posits that steps towards the judicialization of self-judgment by judicial bodies have given rise to state efforts to preserve unfettered discretion. Notably, states have responded to attempts by judicial bodies to gain authority over the application of self-judgment by drafting provisions more explicitly. This dynamic continues to make self-judgment a site of judicialization and pushback. The only way to understand the meaning, limitations and development of self-judgment is by studying this process. Doing so conceptually refines self-judgment and allows for more meaningful references to the notion in practice.
Embryonic development of the world’s smallest puffer fish, Carinotetraodon travancoricus – a threatened freshwater fish of the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot
Authors: Chandana BL , Sanal Ashly , Raghavan Rajeev , Varghese Binu
Published: September 2024

The Malabar dwarf puffer, Carinotetraodon travancoricus is the smallest known pufferfish (family Tetraodontidae) and one of the smallest freshwater fishes of the Indian subcontinent. Due to their miniature size, wacky behaviour and appearance, they are much preferred in the international aquarium fish trade, although little is known regarding their breeding activity in captivity and their embryonic development. The purpose of this study was to fill these knowledge gaps. Wild-caught Malabar dwarf puffers were acclimatised to conditions, and pairs were introduced to breeding tanks. Adult fishes were fed with live and frozen diets including Artemia nauplii, moina and bloodworm. During spawning seasons, adult fish displayed elaborate courtship behaviour around sunset. Carinotetraodon travancoricus is a batch spawner releasing 1 to 5 eggs per diem. The eggs were spherical, and non-sticky, with a diameter of 1.48 ± 0.1 mm, and hatching took place after 108 to 116 h post-incubation. The newly hatched larvae were 3.5 ± 0.2 mm in length, and weighed 2.9 ± 0.4 mg. The early larvae have substantial yolk and oil globules as an energy reserve. Histological studies on mature females suggested the batch spawning nature of the species and low fecundity. Given its unique reproductive behaviour and characters, in situ protected habitats are required to ensure their continued survival in the wild, apart from encouraging captive breeding to augment the demand in the international aquarium fish trade.
Evaluation of growth and feeding tolerance in infants with single-ventricle physiology receiving retrospective standard of care feeding regimens compared with protocolised formula or exclusive human milk feeding regimens
Authors: Horsley Megan , Trauth Amiee , Cooper David S. , Blanco Cynthia , Gao Zhiqian , Justice Lindsey
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Determine whether weight gain velocity (g/day) 30 days after initiating feeds following cardiac surgery and other clinical outcomes improve in infants with single-ventricle physiology fed an exclusive human milk (EHM) diet with early fortification compared to non-protocolised “standard of care.”

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study compares term infants with single-ventricle physiology who underwent neonatal surgical palliation. The retrospective control group (RCG) was fed according to non-protocolised standard of care at a single centre and was compared with infants in a previous protocolised multi-site randomised controlled trial assigned to either an EHM group or a control group (TCG). The primary outcome measure is weight gain velocity. Secondary outcomes include change in weight z-score, and incidence of feeding intolerance and necrotising enterocolitis.

Results:

We evaluated 45 surgically palliated neonates with single-ventricle physiology compared to the prior trial patients (EHM = 55, TCG = 52). Baseline demographics were similar between groups, except the RCG had fewer patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (51% vs. 77% vs. 84%, p = 0.0009). The RCG grew similarly to the TCG (7.5 g/day vs. 8.2 g/day), and both groups had significantly lower growth than the EHM group (12 g/day). Necrotising enterocolitis/suspected necrotising enterocolitis were similar in the RCG versus TCG but significantly higher in the RCG compared to the EHM group (20.5% vs. 3.6%, p = 0.033). Incidences of other morbidities were similar.

Conclusions:

Neonates with single-ventricle physiology have improved short-term growth and decreased risk of necrotising enterocolitis or suspected necrotising enterocolitis when receiving an EHM diet after surgical palliation compared to non-protocolised feeding with bovine formula.