bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic similarities within the morphologic spectrum of DICER1‐associated sarcomas and pleuropulmonary blastoma: Histopathologic features guide diagnosis in the LMIC setting
Authors: Roy Paromita , Das Anirban , Singh Angad , Panda Joyshree , Bhattacharya Arpita , Gehani Anisha , Parihar Mayur , K. S. Reghu , Achari Rimpa , Alaggio Rita , Field Amanda , Hill D. Ashley , Dehner Louis P. , Schultz Kris Ann P.
Published: December 2021

Extrapulmonary DICER1‐associated sarcomas (DS) can harbor morphological features overlapping with pleuropulmonary blastoma. We report three children with intracranial and genital tract sarcomas, suspected to have DS based on a heterogeneous yet defining combination of spindle‐cell sarcomatous and blastemal morphology, with rhabdomyomatous differentiation. Foci of immature cartilage at diagnosis (n = 2/3) and increased neuroepithelial differentiation at recurrence (n = 1) were noted. Morphological suspicion prompted somatic testing at reference centers, confirming likely biallelic, loss‐of‐function, and “hotspot” missense DICER1 variants in all three tumors. This can serve as a model for this diagnosis in resource‐limited settings and has implications for germline testing, surveillance, and tumor management.
Clinical significance of unfavorable findings in intermediate‐risk prostate cancer patients for predicting treatment outcomes after contemporary, dose‐escalated multimodal radiotherapy
Authors: Urabe Fumihiko , Miki Kenta , Kimura Takahiro , Sasaki Hiroshi , Tashiro Kojiro , Tsutsumi Yuki , Morikawa Midoriko , Minato Kyosuke , Sato Shun , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Aoki Manabu , Egawa Shin
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Few studies have documented the long‐term oncological outcomes of favorable and unfavorable intermediate‐risk (IR) prostate cancer patients treated via contemporary high‐dose irradiation. We analyzed the ultimate clinical outcomes of such patients using the current risk sub‐stratification schema.

Patients and Methods

We included 693 patients with localized IR prostate cancer treated via low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy (LDR‐BT) with or without external beam radiation (EBRT) and with or without androgen‐deprivation therapy (ADT) in a single institution. Treatment outcomes (biochemical recurrence‐free survival [BCRFS] and clinical progression‐free survival [CPFS]) were compared according to the numbers of unfavorable findings.

Results

Out of the 693 IR patients, 292 (42.1%) exhibited favorable disease; the remaining 401 (57.9%) exhibited unfavorable disease. Compared with favorable IR status, unfavorable IR status was associated with shorter BCRFS and CPFS (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Patients with two to three unfavorable factors experienced the worst oncological outcomes (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). Although patients with one or no unfavorable factors responded similarly to LDR‐BT monotherapy, this treatment modality was insufficient for preventing biochemical and clinical progression in patients with multiple unfavorable findings.

Conclusion

Long‐term treatment outcomes indicate that patients with IR disease scheduled for LDR‐BT should undergo multimodal irradiation if they exhibit two or more unfavorable factors at diagnosis.
Opioid and analgesic utilization in Ireland in 2000 and 2015: A repeated cross‐sectional study
Authors: Moriarty Frank , Bennett Kathleen , Fahey Tom
Published: December 2021

In recent decades, opioid use has increased internationally and is a major public health concern. This study aims to characterize changes in opioid and other analgesic prescribing in Ireland over a 15‐year period (2000–2015). This is a repeated cross‐sectional study of administrative pharmacy claims data in 2000 and 2015. Individuals of all ages in Ireland's Eastern Health Board region who were eligible for the General Medical Services (GMS) scheme were included. This scheme covers 40% of the population, mostly those on lower incomes and older people. The primary outcome was dispensing of opioids, both prevalence of any use and rate per 1000 GMS eligible population (standardized to the 2015 population). Logistic regression was used to assess odds of opioid dispensing in 2015 versus 2000, controlling for demographic differences. The eligible study population was 364 436 in 2000 and 523 653 in 2015. In 2000, 19.4% of the eligible population had at least one opioid dispensing compared to 20.8% in 2015. The rate increased from 671 to 1098 dispensings per 1000 population. The increase was highest in the dispensing rates of codeine, tramadol, oxycodone, buprenorphine, and fentanyl. Compared to 2000, there was higher odds in 2015 of being dispensed a strong opioid (adjusted odds ratio 2.0, 95%CI 1.97–2.04) or long‐acting formulation (3.75, 95%CI 3.58–3.92). Increased prescribing of opioids, particularly strong opioids, between 2000 and 2015 is evident in Ireland. This is concerning due to the potential for misuse, and opioid‐related morbidity/mortality.
Photosensitized Formation of Soluble Bionanoparticles of Lysozyme
Authors: Rey Valentina , Abatedaga Inés , Vera Cecilia , Vieyra Faustino E. Morán , Borsarelli Claudio D.
Published: December 2021

Photosensitized crosslinking of hen egg‐white lysozyme (LZ) in buffer solutions was obtained by blue‐LED excitation of ruthenium (II) tris‐bipyridyl dication (Ru(bpy)32+) in a molar excess of persulfate anion (S2O82−), both in the absence and presence of dissolved oxygen. The results show a rapid monomer consumption of >75 %, with sequential formation of soluble LZ nanoparticles, e. g., dimers (LZ2),…n‐mers (LZn≥6) with diameters from 6 to 13 nm, regardless of the presence of dissolved oxygen in solution. The bionanoparticles are crosslinked through 3,3'‐dityrosine (diTyr) bonds, by the recombination of tyrosyl radicals of Y20, Y23, and Y53 residues of different protein molecules, produced by intermediated oxidants Ru(bpy)33+ and SO4.− generated after excitation. Furthermore, under aerobic conditions, photosensitized formation of singlet molecular oxygen (1O2) also results in the oxidative transformation of tryptophan residues into fluorescent kynurenine‐type derivatives. These findings may contribute to the rational development of functional protein bionanoparticles.
Synthesis of New Statin Derivatives
Authors: Chioua Mourad , Marco‐Contelles José
Published: December 2021

Herein we report the synthesis of the new statin derivative MC609 in 80 % overall yield by sequential transformation of simvastatin including dehydration, and Michael addition of N‐benzyl hydroxylamine followed by cyclization. The preparation of nitronestatins MC649 and MC645 is also described from (2S,4R)‐4‐((tert‐butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)‐6‐oxotetrahydro‐2H‐pyran‐2‐carbaldehyde by reaction with N‐benzyl hydroxylamine, and N‐hydroxylamine followed by reduction with sodium cyanoborohydride and coupling with commercially available 2‐chloro‐6‐methylquinoline‐3‐carbaldehyde, in 77 % and 24 % overall yield, respectively.
Adsorption of NO and NO2 on Rh‐Doped Hexagonal Boron Nitride Monolayers: A First‐Principles Study
Authors: Zhang Jun'an , Tian Jiangling , Zhang Qingwei , Lu Yunhua , Li Lei , Xu Yanjie
Published: December 2021

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been made to investigate the adsorption and sensing properties of harmful nitrogen oxides (NO, NO2) on rhodium (Rh) doped hexagonal boron nitride (BN) to explore the feasibility of constructing Rh‐doped BN (Rh‐BN) based gas sensors. For each gas molecule, various adsorption positions and orientations were examined. The calculations illustrate that the most stable structure is that the Rh atom is located directly above the N atom, and a stable chemical bond with a length of 2.096 Å formed between the Rh atom and N atom, with significant binding energy (Eb) of −1.561 eV. Moreover, the adsorption performance of the Rh‐BN monolayer towards nitrogen oxide is in the order as NO2>NO, with Ea of −3.919 eV and −3.318 eV, respectively. This indicates that the Rh‐BN single layer possesses ideal adsorption and sensing properties. Furthermore, by doping the Rh atom, impurities are introduced into the intrinsic BN band structure, which improves the interaction between BN and adsorbed gas molecules. Following the adsorption of NO and NO2, the bandgap (Eg) of the doped BN is wider, which indicates that gas adsorption reduces the conductivity of the system, but enhances the sensitivity of the system. The above calculation and analysis are of great importance for the exploration of the Rh‐BN monolayer as an innovative gas detection material.
Synthetic Coumarin Derivatives as SARS‐CoV‐2 Major Protease Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis, Bioevaluation and Molecular Docking
Authors: Mohamed Nada M. , Eltelbany Rania F. A.
Published: December 2021

Major protease enzyme of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2 Mpro) is one of the key enzymes of viral replication which amuses many scientists as a promising drug target. Nonetheless, few studies reported new synthetic small molecule inhibitors of the Mpro but many were repurposing drugs such as chloroquine or predicting the activity based on in silico results. This study had the privilege of synthesizing new coumarin‐based derivatives with possible Mpro inhibition based on the previously reported ligand‐based pharmacophore model. Compound 3 showed comparable Mpro inhibitory activity to chloroquine with IC50 15.0 and 13.1 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, compounds 4 b, 4 d, 5 b, 5 c, 5 e and 5 g managed to inhibit the Mpro enzymatic activity by more than 50.0 % at 100 μM among which 5 g showed 63.9 % inhibition and IC50 25.8 μg/mL. The binding conformations of the promising compounds were illustrated using molecular docking as well as their drug‐likeness and ADMET properties. A pharmacophore model was generated using the compounds with more than 50.0 % Mpro inhibition to annotate the essential moieties for enzyme binding. All compounds were fully characterized using the conventional spectroscopic and microanalyses methods.
Organocascade Synthesis of Spiro[chroman‐3,2′‐indanedione] Scaffolds via [4+2] or [1+1+4] Cyclisation
Authors: Gudise Veera Babu , Settipalli Poorna Chandrasekhar , Reddy Yeruva Pavankumar , Anwar Shaik
Published: December 2021

A simple and convenient protocol has been demonstrated for the construction of spiro[chroman‐3,2′‐indanedione] via Oxa‐Michael/Michael cascade reaction sequence using 2‐arylidene‐1,3‐indanedione and (E)‐2‐(2‐nitrovinyl)phenol. This [4+2] cyclisation protocol results in the generation of two stereocentres along with an all carbon quaternary centre in good to high chemical yields of upto 93 %. A triple cascade reaction approach was carried out for the construction of spiro[chroman‐3,2′‐indanedione] using [1+1+4] cyclisation protocol.
Improving Charge Injection at Gold/Conjugated Polymer Contacts by Polymer Insulator‐Assisted Annealing for Transistors
Authors: Wei Peng , Shen Zichao , Qin Xinsu , Zhang Peng , Bu Laju , Chen Qing , Roth Stephan V. , Lu Guanghao
Published: December 2021

The poor chemical miscibility between metal and organic materials usually leads to both structural and energetic mismatches at gold/organic interfaces, and thereby, high contact resistance of organic electronic devices. This study shows that the contact resistance of organic field‐effect transistors is significantly reduced by one order of magnitude, by reforming the contact interface between gold electrodes and conjugated polymers upon a polymer insulator‐assisted thermal annealing. Upon an optimized solution process, the conjugated polymer is homogenously distributed within the amorphous polymer insulator matrix with relatively low glass transition temperature, and thus, even a moderate annealing temperature can induce sufficient motion of conjugated polymer chains to simultaneously adjust the polymer orientation and improve the packing of gold atoms. Consequently, gold/conjugated polymer contact is reorganized after annealing, which improves both charge transport from bulk gold to interface and charge injection from gold into conjugated polymers. This method, with appropriate insulator matrix, is effective for improving the injection of both holes and electrons, and widely applicable for many unipolar and ambipolar conjugated polymers to optimize the device performance and simultaneously increase the optical transparency (over 80%). A frequency doubler and a phase modulator are demonstrated, respectively, using the ambipolar transistors with optimized charge injection properties.
Light‐Responsive Bilayer Cell Culture Platform for Reversible Cell Guidance
Authors: Isomäki Mari , Fedele Chiara , Kääriäinen Lotta , Mäntylä Elina , Nymark Soile , Ihalainen Teemu O. , Priimagi Arri
Published: December 2021

In vivo, cells are surrounded by a constantly changing microenvironment, which regulates many cell functions such as differentiation, migration, and cell death. Stimuli‐responsive biomaterials aim to mimic this interaction between cells and extracellular matrix in vitro. However, reproducing dynamic signaling noninvasively without affecting the cell viability remains a challenge. Herein, a dynamic cell culturing platform consisting of a light‐responsive azobenzene molecular glass film and a protective polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coating is developed. By tuning the PDMS layer thickness, surface relief gratings (SRGs) can be efficiently photoinscribed on the platform surface. The SRGs can also be erased with light in the presence of PDMS, i.e., the topography can be reversibly photomodulated. The inscribed SRGs can guide epithelial cell orientation along the topography. The erasure parameters are targeted toward cell culturing environment, enabling experiments with live cells. Finally, the photoresponsive platform is patterned with proteins by microcontact printing, allowing its biofunctionalization and the combination of microtopography and protein patterns. This study paves the way for using reconfigurable cell culture platforms for the dynamic control of cell–material interactions. The PDMS coating has potential to protect underneath material, broadening the spectrum of possible materials for dynamic cell culture platforms.
Incidental vocabulary learning in a Japanese university L2‐English language classroom over a semester
Authors: Brown Dale
Published: December 2021

This article reports on a study that combined two strands of research: studies of incidental vocabulary learning and studies of the classroom lexical environment (in which vocabulary exposure is measured and the potential for learning estimated). The study looked at the orthographic lexical environment in a language classroom over a semester and examined incidental vocabulary learning resulting from exposure to that environment. The investigated class, with N = 29 first language (L1)–Japanese English learners, met twice a week over a 15‐week semester. Because the same courses had been taught to successive cohorts of learners for several years, it was possible to predict orthographic exposure to vocabulary in advance and thus to identify target words for investigation. In a pretest/posttest design, with the learners’ actual exposure to the words monitored over the semester, word knowledge (K = 32) was gauged at two levels: word recognition and meaning recall. Significant gains were observed in each and so the influence of several factors was explored: frequency of occurrence within the class and variation in word form were found to have significant positive effects on gains, while distribution of occurrences (massed or distributed) had no effect.
Efficacy of transrectal ultrasound in assessing endometrium of postmenopausal women with axial uterus
Authors: Wong M. , Amin T. , Thanatsis N. , Foo X. , Jurkovic D.
Published: December 2021

Objective

To evaluate the acceptance and efficacy of transrectal ultrasound (TRS) in assessing the endometrium in postmenopausal women with an axial uterus.

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional study conducted between October 2015 and October 2018 of consecutive postmenopausal women with an axial uterus on transvaginal ultrasound (TVS). Women with a known diagnosis of gynecological malignancy were excluded. TRS was offered immediately after TVS without prior bowel preparation. A single operator determined subjectively whether the endometrium was visualized satisfactorily on TVS and TRS. In women with postmenopausal bleeding (PMB), endometrial thickness (ET) was measured and endometrial morphology was categorized as atrophic, uniformly thickened, benign endometrial polyp or endometrial cancer, based on subjective pattern recognition. All women with PMB and a non‐atrophic endometrium underwent outpatient endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy or hysterectomy. The success rate of TRS in assessing satisfactorily the endometrium was compared with that of TVS. In patients with PMB, ET measurements and subjective diagnosis of endometrial cancer on TVS vs TRS were compared.

Results

Of the 1553 women who underwent TVS examination, 103 (6.6%) had an axial uterus, of whom 76 (73.8%) presented with PMB. TRS was accepted by 66/103 (64.1%) women with an axial uterus. TRS assessed satisfactorily a significantly higher proportion of endometria compared with TVS (90.9% vs 62.1%; χ2 = 14.1, P < 0.001). In 50 women with PMB and an axial uterus who underwent both TVS and TRS, TVS failed to visualize the endometrium satisfactorily in 15 (30.0%) women, whilst TRS provided satisfactory images in all cases. Among the 35 women with PMB and a satisfactory endometrial assessment on TVS and TRS, measurements of ET on TRS were significantly lower compared to those on TVS (median difference, −1.2 (interquartile range, −3.0 to −0.4) mm). The overall agreement of TVS and TRS on the presence or absence of endometrial cancer using subjective pattern recognition was 30/35 (85.7%; 95% CI, 74.1–97.3%). While all seven cases of histologically confirmed endometrial cancer were diagnosed correctly on TRS, four were misdiagnosed on TVS as benign polyps or uniformly thickened endometrium.

Conclusions

TRS is an acceptable and effective way to assess the endometrium in postmenopausal women with an axial uterus. Among women presenting additionally with PMB, TRS is associated with a higher proportion of satisfactory endometrial assessments and fewer misdiagnoses of endometrial cancer by subjective pattern recognition compared with TVS. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Pneumothorax and extensive subcutaneous emphysema in a French bulldog, following removal of a silicone tracheal stoma stent used for a temporary tracheostomy
Authors: Motta Claudio , Felisberto Ricardo , Ryan Tony
Published: December 2021

A 3‐year‐old French bulldog was presented with a 2‐year history of a progressively worsening stertor and exercise intolerance. Clinical examination was suggestive of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Routine laryngeal examination and computed tomography confirmed changes consistent with BOAS. A folded flap palatoplasty and vertical wedge resection alarplasty were performed. Severe dyspnea and cyanosis developed during recovery necessitating emergency intubation, and temporary tracheostomy was performed. A silicone tracheal stoma stent was placed instead of a tracheostomy tube. The silicone stoma stent was removed after 48 hours, and the patient remained hospitalised for observation for further 8 hours. Before discharge, the patient became severely distressed during IV canula removal. Rapid onset of severe subcutaneous emphysema and dyspnea necessitated emergency induction and intubation. Thoracic radiographs revealed a left‐sided pneumothorax. Following thoracostomy tube placement and drainage, a permanent tracheostomy was performed and the dog was discharged from hospital the following day.
Complication with re‐sedation in southern ground hornbills (Bucorvus leadbeateri) following partial reversal of two orally administered sedation protocols
Authors: Laubscher Liesel L. , Koeppel Katja , Campbell Robert , Chabangu Sarah , Kemp Lucy V.
Published: December 2021

The combination of midazolam, medetomidine and azaperone (MMA) was compared with the combination of butorphanol, azaperone and medetomidine (BAM) for the sedation of southern ground hornbills when administered orally in a bait. The BAM combination (30 mg butorphanol, 12 mg azaperone and 12 mg medetomidine per ml of solution) at a dose of 0.14 ml/kg was the only combination that did not result in re‐sedation after reversal. However, induction of sedation was long, and sedation was only deep enough for capture, handling, and minor non‐invasive procedures. The MMA combination and higher doses of the BAM combination resulted in quicker inductions although individuals showed mild to severe signs of re‐sedation, starting at 4 hours after reversal and continuing for as long as 17 hours after reversal. Care should therefore be taken when administering these combinations orally to southern ground hornbills as it appears that absorption, metabolism and excretion are unpredictable in this species.
Season rather than habitat affects lynx survival and risk of mortality in the human‐dominated landscape of southern Sweden
Authors: Andrén Henrik , Aronsson Malin , López‐Bao José V. , Samelius Gustaf , Chapron Guillaume , Rauset Geir Rune , Hemmingmoore Heather , Persson Jens
Published: December 2021

Landscapes are mosaics of habitat associated with different risks and resources, including human activities, which can affect individual survival in wildlife. Different relationships between habitat characteristics and human‐caused and natural mortality can result in attractive sinks. We used individual‐based data from 97 Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx monitored for 160 exposure‐years to link adult survival and the risk of mortality to home range habitat characteristics in the human‐dominated landscape of southern Sweden. Human‐caused mortality (i.e. legal hunting, poaching and vehicle accidents) dominated mortality causes (24 out of 37 deaths). We did not detect any strong effects of habitat characterises explaining the variation in mortality risk in lynx. Although the density of roe deer affects several aspects of lynx ecology, we could not detect any effects of roe deer density on lynx survival, probably because roe deer density was sufficiently high in our study area. Instead, seasonal variation was the main factor influencing mortality in lynx. Mortality was highest during the hunting season for lynx (16 February–31 March), as well as during autumn and winter, probably because lynx poaching occurs opportunistically during the hunting season for moose and roe deer. We did not find any indication that human activity created attractive sinks for lynx, since there were no contrasting patterns between human‐caused and natural mortality in terms of habitat characteristics. One explanation for the limited influence of the home range characteristics may be that lynx in our study died from multiple causes. Therefore, it is less likely that one or a few habitat characteristics could explain the risk of mortality at the home range scale. There is strong evidence that lynx can coexist with humans in multi‐use and human‐dominated landscapes, even without large protected areas, if the management regimes are favourable.
RNA nucleotide methylation: 2021 update
Authors: Motorin Yuri , Helm Mark
Published: December 2021

Among RNA modifications, transfer of methylgroups from the typical cofactor S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine by methyltransferases (MTases) to RNA is by far the most common reaction. Since our last review about a decade ago, the field has witnessed the re‐emergence of mRNA methylation as an important mechanism in gene regulation. Attention has then spread to many other RNA species; all being included into the newly coined concept of the “epitranscriptome.” The focus moved from prokaryotes and single cell eukaryotes as model organisms to higher eukaryotes, in particular to mammals. The perception of the field has dramatically changed over the past decade. A previous lack of phenotypes in knockouts in single cell organisms has been replaced by the apparition of MTases in numerous disease models and clinical investigations. Major driving forces of the field include methylation mapping techniques, as well as the characterization of the various MTases, termed “writers.” The latter term has spilled over from DNA modification in the neighboring epigenetics field, along with the designations “readers,” applied to mediators of biological effects upon specific binding to a methylated RNA. Furthermore “eraser” enzymes effect the newly discovered oxidative removal of methylgroups. A sense of reversibility and dynamics has replaced the older perception of RNA modification as a concrete‐cast, irreversible part of RNA maturation. A related concept concerns incompletely methylated residues, which, through permutation of each site, lead to inhomogeneous populations of numerous modivariants. This review recapitulates the major developments of the past decade outlined above, and attempts a prediction of upcoming trends.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification
Identification of uncharacterized proteins potentially localized to mitochondria (UPMs) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a fluorescent protein unstable in the cytoplasm
Authors: Horiuchi Satoshi , Namba Shotaro , Saeki Nozomu , Satoh Ayano , Moriya Hisao
Published: December 2021

Eukaryotic cells are composed of organelles, and each organelle contains proteins that play a role in its function. Therefore, the localization of a protein, especially to organelles, is a clue to infer the function of that protein. In this study, we attempted to identify novel mitochondrially localized proteins in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a fluorescent protein (GFPdeg) that is rapidly degraded in the cytoplasm. Of the budding yeast proteins predicted to localize to mitochondria by the prediction tool Deeploc‐1.0, those with known mitochondrial localization or functional relevance were eliminated, and 95 proteins of unknown function were selected as candidates for analysis. By forced expression of GFPdeg fusion proteins with these proteins and observation of their localization, we identified 35 uncharacterized proteins potentially localized to mitochondria (UPMs) including 8 previously identified proteins that localize to mitochondria. Most of these had no N‐terminal mitochondrial localization signal and were evolutionarily young “emerging genes” that exist only in S. cerevisiae. Some of these genes were found to be upregulated during the postdiauxic shift phase when mitochondria are being developed, suggesting that they are actually involved in some mitochondrial function.
Key Theoretical, Policy, and Implementation Experience Considerations for the Mexican ETS: Toward an Equitable and Cost-Effective Compliance Phase
Authors: Pérez Henríquez Blas L.
Published: December 2021

This chapter presents a brief overview of the policy design and theoretical environmental economic principles that underpin the concept of emissions trading systems (ETS) as a policy approach to address climate change. It discusses basic environmental economic principles pertinent to the development of market-based solutions to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) and co-pollutants. The chapter serves as the technical basis for the broader discussion that this book as a whole presents on the launch of the pilot phase of the Mexican ETS on January 1, 2020. Understanding international program design experiences, theoretical principles, and implementing best practices is key to ensuring Mexico’s success in the transition from the pilot or learning phase to an operational ETS compliance system. This will ensure Mexico fulfills its national climate policy goals and nationally determined contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement in a cost-effective manner, while also providing compliance flexibility to the industrial sectors covered under the program. A well-designed ETS ultimately provides the right incentives for industrial carbon emission reductions to drive cost-effective abatement and clean innovation. Secondly, this chapter presents a more in-depth review of policy developments focusing specifically on key implementation lessons from the two most advanced ETS systems in operation to date: (1) the European Union ETS and (2) California’s cap-and-trade program. In short, this chapter outlines a set of key policy lessons and design parameters to support the transition from the pilot Mexican ETS to an operational compliance phase in a socially just, environmentally sound, and cost-effective manner.
The International Influence of the Emissions Trading System in Mexico
Authors: Gutierrez González Alicia
Published: December 2021

This article aims to give an overview of the international influence of the Emissions Trading System (ETS) in Mexico. It is divided into three parts. First, it briefly examines both the international Climate Change regime through the description of such instruments as the 1997 Kyoto Protocol and the 2015 Paris Agreement, and the national regime by reviewing as the 2012 General Law on Climate Change (LGCC), the National Emissions Registry (RENE) and its Regulations, as well as other instruments regarding mitigation from carbon tax and clean energy. Second, it analyzes the legal framework of the pilot phase of the ETS in Mexico (under the cap and trade principle) which seeks to reduce carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) only in the energy and industry sectors whose emissions are greater than 100 thousand direct tonnes of CO2. In doing so, it also explains the relevance of implementing an ETS as a cost-effective mitigation measure to achieve the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in order to reduce 22% greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 (increasing to 36% if there is international support and financing) and 50% by 2050 as a developing country. Third, it focuses on the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) experience and shows that all its phases must be done gradually by adopting the learning-by-doing approach.
Carbon Finance and Emission Trading in Mexico: Building Lessons from the CDM Experience and FOMECAR (Mexican Carbon Fund)
Authors: Lucatello Simone , Flores José Eduardo Tovar
Published: December 2021

A more general lesson from the past decade is that climate policy and carbon initiatives such as ETS and carbon pricing are not static concepts, but are instead constantly evolving and building upon previous experiences. The vision of a single, top-down global trading system has shifted toward the reality of various single and regional trading system programmes. Building a national emission trading system in Mexico will surely pass through processes and experiences that the country has somehow undertaken from the Kyoto Protocol (KP) in 2005, particularly with the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), the Mexican Carbon Fund (FOMECAR) and their legacy. Additional design elements or provisions must be prepared under the new ETS in Mexico: regulation will possibly include definitions, scope, compliance obligation, legal procedures and other necessary provisions such as the allocation of permits. However, in order to start the process, important questions on financing the initiative and accompanying the development of an ETS will go through a finance support scenario. Thus, who is going to finance the starting process for allocating emissions, financing bonds and other design issues for the implementation of the Mexican ETS? Who will be financing and offering technical cooperation to follow up on eligible projects for the ETS and who will be supporting education and information activities about ETS implementation? Those and other questions will be addressed in this article, in the light of international and regional experiences.
Emission Trading System and Forest: Learning from the Experience of New Zealand
Authors: Rontard Benjamin , Hernandez Humberto Reyes
Published: December 2021

In the area of international policy to mitigate climate change, the forest has been important in achieving the objectives of liable countries. The Emissions Trading System in New Zealand (NZ ETS) is the only case of an ETS integrating forestry as a mandatory actor. This is the result of prolonged political discussions and the characteristics of New Zealand forestry. Forest landowners are liable to surrender allowances for deforestation and can potentially receive allowances for the level of carbon sequestered. This scheme created new opportunities for forestry activities and impacted the decision-making trade-offs related to land-use changes. In Mexico, the implementation of an Emissions Trading System in 2020 is evidence of the country’s commitment to controlling domestic emissions under the Paris Agreement. Nevertheless, for now, the forestry sector is not involved as a liable actor. It is possible to envision the integration of the forest sector because of the extensive forest cover in the country, which provides a livelihood for a large part of the population. Mexico has the experience and institutional framework to integrate forestry into national emission accounting and carbon forest projects in the voluntary market. The potential impacts of this integration are both positive and negative. Environmental impacts are positive because forest areas can help mitigate emissions, but intensive carbon farming disrupts native forests and biodiversity. The economic impacts would be highly favorable for forest landowners if market volatility were controlled, but there is a potential loss of public revenue for the State. Finally, carbon forestry has the potential to cause conflict between economic sectors involved in land use and among participating communities.
Caring in the in-between: a proposal to introduce responsible AI and robotics to healthcare
Authors: Vallès-Peris Núria , Domènech Miquel
Published: December 2021

In the scenario of growing polarization of promises and dangers that surround artificial intelligence (AI), how to introduce responsible AI and robotics in healthcare? In this paper, we develop an ethical–political approach to introduce democratic mechanisms to technological development, what we call “Caring in the In-Between”. Focusing on the multiple possibilities for action that emerge in the realm of uncertainty, we propose an ethical and responsible framework focused on care actions in between fears and hopes. Using the theoretical perspective of Science and Technology Studies and empirical research, “Caring in the In-Between” is based on three movements: the first is a change of focus from the world of promises and dangers to the world of uncertainties; the second is a conceptual shift from assuming a relationship with robotics based on a Human–Robot Interaction to another focused on the network in which the robot is embedded (the “Robot Embedded in a Network”); and the last is an ethical shift from a general normative framework to a discussion on the context of use. Based on these suggestions, “Caring in the In-Between” implies institutional challenges, as well as new practices in healthcare systems. It is articulated around three simultaneous processes, each of them related to practical actions in the “in-between” dimensions considered: monitoring relations and caring processes, through public engagement and institutional changes; including concerns and priorities of stakeholders, with the organization of participatory processes and alternative forms of representation; and making fears and hopes commensurable, through the choice of progressive and reversible actions.
Modelling decay in effectiveness for evaluation of behaviour change interventions: a tutorial for public health economists
Authors: Candio Paolo , Pouwels Koen B. , Meads David , Hill Andrew J. , Bojke Laura , Williams Claire
Published: December 2021

Background and purpose

Recent methodological reviews of evaluations of behaviour change interventions in public health have highlighted that the decay in effectiveness over time has been mostly overlooked, potentially leading to suboptimal decision-making. While, in principle, discrete-time Markov chains—the most commonly used modelling approach—can be adapted to account for decay in effectiveness, this framework inherently lends itself to strong model simplifications. The application of formal and more appropriate modelling approaches has been supported, but limited progress has been made to date. The purpose of this paper is to encourage this shift by offering a practical guide on how to model decay in effectiveness using a continuous-time Markov chain (CTMC)-based approach.

Methods

A CTMC approach is demonstrated, with a contextualized tutorial being presented to facilitate learning and uptake. A worked example based on the stylized case study in physical activity promotion is illustrated with accompanying R code.

Discussion

The proposed framework presents a relatively small incremental change from the current modelling practice. CTMC represents a technical solution which, in absence of relevant data, allows for formally testing the sensitivity of results to assumptions regarding the long-term sustainability of intervention effects and improving model transparency.

Conclusions

The use of CTMC should be considered in evaluations where decay in effectiveness is likely to be a key factor to consider. This would enable more robust model-based evaluations of population-level programmes to promote behaviour change and reduce the uncertainty surrounding the decision to invest in these public health interventions.
The contribution of deadwood to soil carbon dynamics in contrasting temperate forest ecosystems
Authors: Shannon V. L. , Vanguelova E. I. , Morison J. I. L. , Shaw L. J. , Clark J. M.
Published: December 2021

Deadwood forms a significant carbon pool in forest systems and is a potential source of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) input to soil, yet little is known about how deadwood effects forest soil carbon cycling. Deadwood DOC inputs to soil may be retained through sorption or may prime microbial decomposition of existing organic matter to produce additional DOC. To determine impacts of deadwood on soil C cycling, we analysed surface soil from beneath deadwood or leaf litter only, along chronosequences of stands of lowland oak and upland Sitka spruce. The concentration and quality (by optical indices) of water-extracted soil DOC (water-extractable organic carbon; WEOC), in situ decomposition ‘tea bag index’ (TBI) parameters and enzymatic potential assays (β-D-cellubiosidase, β-glucosidase, β-xylosidase, leucine aminopeptidase, phosphatase, phenol oxidase) were determined. Presence of deadwood significantly (p < 0.05) increased WEOC concentration (~ 1.5 to ~ 1.75 times) in the mineral oak soil but had no effect on WEOC in spruce soils, potentially because spruce deadwood DOC inputs were masked by a high background of WEOC (1168 mg kg−1 soil) and/or were not retained through mineral sorption in the highly organic (~ 90% SOM) soil. TBI and enzyme evidence suggested that deadwood-derived DOC did not impact existing forest carbon pools via microbial priming, possibly due to the more humified/aromatic quality of DOC produced (humification index of 0.75 and 0.65 for deadwood and leaf litter WEOC, respectively). Forest carbon budgets, particularly those for mineral soils, may underestimate the quantity of DOC if derived from soil monitoring that does not include a deadwood component.
Variability of diatom community composition and structure in mountain streams
Authors: González-Paz Lorena , Comesaña María , Pardo Isabel , Barquín José , Goldenberg-Vilar Alejandra , Delgado Cristina
Published: December 2021

Small rivers support high levels of biodiversity, being especially sensitive to the effects of global change. Temporal records of community composition in minimally impaired streams can be used to explore trends in biodiversity in response to climate change and natural temporal variation. We approached the comparison of two time periods (2003–2008 and 2016–2020) to study whether the composition of diatom assemblages changed over time in twenty-three streams of the mountain range of Picos de Europa (Northern Spain). The stream’s water chemistry indicated significant decreases in N_NO3−and P_PO43−content over time. In these minimally disturbed streams, the specific diatom community was dominated byAchnanthidium pyrenaicum,Achnanthidium minutissimumandCocconeis euglypta. PERMANOVA analyses did not identify significant changes in diatom assemblage composition between periods or river types. Diatom indices (e.g. IPS, NORTIdiat) indicated high or good ecological status and relatively high alpha diversity values were found in these mountain rivers during the studied years. Although diversity and evenness showed a significant decrease over time, the temporal stability of the river-type diatom reference community between the two periods should be considered as an indicator of biodiversity persistence of high importance when monitoring the ecological status following the reference condition approach.
Stigma and Adults with Tourette’s Syndrome: “Never Laugh at Other People’s Disabilities, Unless they have Tourette’s—Because How Can You Not?”
Authors: Malli Melina Aikaterini , Forrester-Jones Rachel
Published: December 2021

Tourette’s syndrome (TS) is a condition that has been stigmatised and mocked in contemporary society, yet little is known about the subjective experience of those directly affected by it. Guided by Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) a mixed method design was used for this study to explore the experience of stigma in adults living with TS in the UK. A total of one hundred and ninety-nine adults participated in a cross-sectional online survey using an adapted version of the Discrimination and Stigma Scale (DISC-12) and the Perceived Quality of Life (PQoL) scale, twenty of whom were also interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. Quantitative findings indicated that participants experienced discrimination in numerous life domains; most prominently in education (75.4%), social life (71.4%), public transport (60.8%) and employment (54.3.%). The PQoL of adults with Tourette’s was found to be negatively correlated with bothEnactedandAnticipated Discriminationfrom the DISC-12 scale. Qualitative findings illustrated the pervasive nature of TS stigma, which expanded beyond micro-interactions, and which could be observed at a structural level. The peculiar impact of disparagement humour in the construction and promulgation of “othering” individuals with TS was also highlighted. Concealment and self-stigma were mechanisms commonly utilised by individuals to manage their “spoiled identity”, inhibiting active and collective responses to stigmatisation. The study highlights how TS stigma acts as a barrier to social and economic participation for adults with the condition and helps identify factors that need to be considered when developing anti-stigma strategies.
Educational Attainment Past the Traditional Age of Completion for Two Cohorts of US Adults: Inequalities by Gender and Race/Ethnicity
Authors: Cohen Alison K. , Ryan Sarah , Smith Louisa H. , Ream Robert K. , Glymour M. Maria , Lopez Andrea , Yen Irene H.
Published: December 2021

The vast majority of studies investigating participation in, persistence through, and consequences of postsecondary education focus on educational attainment status among the so-called traditional population of collegegoers between the ages of 18 and 24. This narrow focus leaves largely invisible the role that an expanding set of educational trajectories throughout adulthood plays in shaping social stratification. Using 35-plus and 20 years of follow-up data from the US National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY)’s 1979 and 1997 cohorts, we find that a substantial share within each cohort is attaining education well into adulthood, and that these trajectories are patterned according to key social and demographic characteristics. In both cohorts, racial/ethnic differences in educational attainment grew over time and, for those attaining the same degree, members of historically disadvantaged groups did so at an older age. Cohort differences in trajectories emerged, however, when considering the intersection of race/ethnicity and socialized gender. Through careful descriptive analysis of two generational cohorts, our study makes clear the role of educational trajectories in the process of cumulative (dis)advantage across the life course, as well as across generations.
Femoral Neck Osteotomy: A Salvage Procedure for Unstable and Locked Acetabulum Fractures in Selected Frail Patients
Authors: Cibura Charlotte , Yilmaz Emre , Straeter Dina , Schildhauer Thomas A. , Kruppa Christiane
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Purpose of the study is to present and discuss the femoral neck osteotomy as a salvage procedure for unstable, locked geriatric acetabular fractures in selected frail patients. When disadvantages and possible risks of other treatments exceed the benefits, this method may relieve pain and allow for early wheelchair mobilization in frail patients with limited mobility.

Materials and Methods

We report nine patients from 2008 to 2020, which were treated with an osteotomy of the femoral neck for an unstable acetabular fracture. Indications, ASA-Score, Frailty Index, operative procedure, length of hospital stay, complications and outcomes will be discussed.

Results

Patient’s age averaged 86 years (range 81–92). Acetabular fractures were classified as six both column fractures, two anterior column posterior hemitransversal fractures and one destruction of the acetabulum by multiple metastases. Fracture dislocation with medialization plus locking of the femoral head and a superomedial dome impaction were present in all patients. All patients were classified as ASA III/ IV and the average value on the CSHA Frailty index was 7 (range 6–7). The operation time averaged 52 min (range 34–62). Immediate wheelchair mobilization in seven out of nine patients was started postoperatively.

Conclusion

The osteotomy of the femoral neck may be discussed as a salvage procedure in low functional demanding, multimorbid, frail geriatric patients with unstable acetabular fractures and impairment of mobilisation due to a locked femoral head. The procedure has the advantages of a short operation time and immediate mobilization of the patients. However, this procedure only applies as a salvage solution in selected individual cases.
Truth and Privilege
Authors: Campbell Lyndsay
Published: December 2021

Truth and Privilege is a comparative study that brings together legal, constitutional and social history to explore the common law's diverging paths in two kindred places committed to freedom of expression but separated by the American Revolution. Comparing Nova Scotia and Massachusetts, Lyndsay Campbell examines the development of libel law, the defences of truth and privilege, and the place of courts as fora for disputes. She contrasts courts' centrality in struggles over expression and the interpretation of individual rights in Massachusetts with concerns about defining protective boundaries for the press and individuals through institutional design in Nova Scotia. Campbell's rich analysis acts as a lens through which to understand the role of law in shaping societal change in the nineteenth century, shedding light on the essential question we still grapple with today: what should law's role be in regulating expression we perceive as harmful?
Capitalism and the Environment
Authors: Hsu Shi-Ling
Published: December 2021

Rising economic inequality has put capitalism on trial globally. At the same time, existential environmental threats worsen while corporations continue to pollute and distort government policy. These twin crises have converged in calls to revamp government and economic systems and to revisit socialism, given up for dead only 30 years ago. In Capitalism and the Environment, Shi-Ling Hsu argues that such an impulse, if enacted, will ultimately harm the environment. Hsu argues that inequality and environmental calamities are political failures – the result of bad decision-making – and not a symptom of capitalism. Like socialism, capitalism is composed of political choices. This book proposes that we make a different set of choices to better harness the transformative power of capitalism, which will allow us to reverse course and save the environment.