bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-sufficient biocatalytic cascade for the continuous synthesis of danshensu in flow
Authors: Marchini Valentina , Paradisi Francesca
Published: January 2025

A new strategy has been developed to successfully produce the active component danshensu ex vivo. For this purpose, phenylalanine dehydrogenase from Bacillus sphaericus was combined with the novel hydroxyphenylpyruvate reductase from Mentha x piperita, thereby providing an in situ cofactor regeneration throughout the conversion process. The purified enzymes were co-immobilized and subsequently employed in batch biotransformation, resulting in 60% conversion of 10 mM L-dopa within 24 h, with a catalytic amount of NAD+ as cofactor. Furthermore, the bienzymatic system was implemented as a packed-bed reactor in continuous flow, achieving a conversion rate up to 80% with 60 min retention time. The process was further intensified by implementing a 48-h flow bioreaction. The biocatalysts demonstrated remarkable stability, retaining 62% of their initial activity at the end of the process. The final productivity of the isolated compound (96% purity) was calculated to be 1.84 g L−1 h−1 yielding a sustainable synthesis of danshensu.

Key points

• Characterization of the hydroxyphenylpyruvate reductase from Mentha x piperita

• Bi-enzymatic system in a cascade reaction to produce danshensu

• Purification and isolation
of the active compound danshensu

Graphical Abstract
Outlet type constipation in adult patients treated with type A botulinum toxin: a cohort study
Authors: Brisinda Giuseppe , Fico Valeria , Tropeano Giuseppe , Cariati Maria , Altieri Gaia , Misuriello Filomena , Pepe Gilda , Fransvea Pietro , Chiarello Maria Michela
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Chronic constipation is a common symptom. Constipation due to pelvic floor disorders remain a therapeutic challenge. Biofeedback therapy is considered as the first-choice treatment for pelvic floor disorders, whenever dedicated expertise is available. Type A botulinum toxin has been used to selectively weaken the external anal sphincter and puborectalis muscle in constipated patients.

Method

Eighty-two patients with chronic outlet obstruction constipation were treated with 100 units type A botulinum toxin, injected into the puborectalis muscle and the external anal sphincter.

Results

At the 2-month evaluation, a symptomatic improvement was noted in 69 patients. Seven (8.5%) patients had mild flatus incontinence. Stool frequency per week increased from 2.4 ± 0.9 to 5.1 ± 1.0 (P = 0.0001). Anorectal manometry demonstrated decreased tone during straining from 91 ± 28 mmHg to 61 ± 27 mmHg (P = 0.0001). Defecography after the treatment showed improvement in anorectal angle during straining, which increased from 96 ± 12° to 124 ± 14° (P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

Type A botulinum toxin relaxes the puborectalis muscle. Pressure values decline after the treatment. Transrectal ultrasonography to guide injections is a safe procedure. Repeated injections were needed to maintain the clinical improvement.
The dynamic interaction of pediatric ALL cells and MSCs: influencing leukemic cell survival and modulating MSC β-catenin expression
Authors: Ozdemir-Sanci Tuba , Piskin Ilkay , Köksal Yasin , Cayli Sevil , Ozbek Namik Y. , Ozguner H. Meltem
Published: January 2025

Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) are integral components of the bone marrow microenvironment, playing a crucial role in supporting hematopoiesis. Recent studies have investigated the potential involvement of BM-MSCs in the pathophysiology of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, the exact contribution of BM-MSCs to leukemia progression remains unclear because of conflicting findings and limited characterization. In this study, we compared BM-MSCs derived from pediatric ALL patients with those from matched healthy donors (HDs). Our results indicate that while both ALL-MSCs and HD-MSCs meet the criteria established by the International Society for Cellular Therapy, they exhibit significant differences in proliferation and differentiation capacity. ALL-MSCs displayed markedly lower proliferation rates and reduced osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation potential compared to HD-MSCs. Furthermore, co-culture experiments revealed that MSCs enhance the survival of leukemic blasts through both soluble factors and direct cell-cell interactions, underscoring their anti-apoptotic properties. Importantly, our findings demonstrate that interactions with leukemic cells activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in MSCs, suggesting a potential target for therapeutic intervention. Overall, this study enhances our understanding of the role of BM-MSCs in leukemia and highlights β-catenin as a promising target for future therapies.
Immunohistochemical analysis of 147 cases of low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma: refining the immunohistochemical profile of LG-ESS on a large, molecularly confirmed series
Authors: Flídrová Miroslava , Dundr Pavel , Vránková Romana , Němejcová Kristýna , Cibula David , Poncová Renata , Michalová Květoslava , Bouda Jiří , Laco Jan , Ndukwe Munachiso , Ryś Janusz , Książek Mariusz , Berjon Alberto , Zapardiel Ignacio , Franin Ivan , Njavro Antonela , Hausnerová Jitka , Bretová Petra , Židlík Vladimír , Klát Jaroslav , Krasznai Zoard Tibor , Poka Robert , Volodko Nataliya , Yezhova Iryna , Pilka Radovan , Marek Radim , Kolnikova Georgina , Krkoška Milan , Halaška Michael , Drozenová Jana , Dolinská Dagmar , Kalist Vladimír , Bobiński Marcin , Ostrowska-Leśko Marta , Bizoń Magdalena , Sawicki Włodzimierz , Stukan Maciej , Grabowska Karolina , Jędryka Marcin , Poprawski Tymoteusz , Stolnicu Simona , Căpîlna Mihai Emil , Špůrková Zuzana , Zikán Michal , Ciccarone Francesca , Scambia Giovanni , Sharashenidze Archil , Gudadze Miranda , Piatnytska Tetiana , Varchak Ihor , Kendall Bártů Michaela
Published: January 2025

Low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (LG-ESS) can present diagnostic challenges, due to its overlapping morphological features with other uterine mesenchymal tumors. Misdiagnosis rates remain significant, and immunohistochemical data for LG-ESS are limited to small series and inconsistent antibody panels. This study aimed to refine the IHC profile of LG-ESS by analyzing a large, molecularly confirmed series of 147 cases using a panel of 24 antibodies, including newer markers like transgelin and smoothelin. CD10 and IFITM1, key endometrial stromal markers, were expressed in 86% (92% of those extensively) and 69% (60% of those extensively) of cases, with fusion-positive tumors showing significantly higher expression. Smooth muscle markers (α-SMA, desmin, h-caldesmon, calponin, transgelin) were variably expressed, predominantly in focal or low-intensity patterns, with α-SMA reaching the highest frequency of expression (44%). However, the intensity of smooth muscle marker expression was usually very low. Smoothelin was rarely expressed. Hormone receptors were frequently positive, with PR showing a higher frequency (92% vs. 83%) and intensity than ER. Markers like S-100, HMB45, and CD117 were largely negative; all tumors were p53 wild-type, with preserved SMARCB1/SMARCA4 expression and ALK and ROS1 negativity. This work represents the largest molecularly validated IHC study on LG-ESS, providing a robust diagnostic profile for routine pathology. By addressing key diagnostic limitations and examining newer markers, our study supports a more standardized approach to diagnosing LG-ESS and underscores the value of immunohistochemical panels, particularly in fusion-negative tumors where diagnosis relies on morphological and immunohistochemical interpretation. These findings contribute critical data for improving diagnostic accuracy.
Diagnosing alkaptonuria-related nephropathy with urine albumin analysis
Authors: Gülbahçe Aliye , Muderrisoglu Ahmet
Published: January 2025

Homogentisic acid (HGA) accumulation in alkaptonuria (AKU) causes injuries in various organs including the kidney. We present a case of a 9-year-old girl initially diagnosed with AKU-related nephropathy due to proteinuria found in her urine analyses. Despite 1 month of ramipril treatment, the patient’s proteinuria progressed, and as a result, kidney biopsy and nitisinone treatment were planned. In addition, we controlled her proteinuria with urine albumin measurement. After finding a normal urine albumin level in the 24-h urine sample, we realized that the patient was misdiagnosed with proteinuria because of HGA interference with urine protein level measurement using benzethonium. The patient’s treatment for kidney injury was canceled. Urine albumin level was measured as normal 2 months later, confirming proteinuria was a false-positive test result. AKU-related nephropathy should be evaluated with urine albumin measurement instead of protein. In this way, the complication risk of unnecessary interventions and pharmacotherapies can be avoided.
Optimizing navigational graph queries
Authors: Mulder Thomas , Fletcher George , Yakovets Nikolay
Published: January 2025

We study the optimization of navigational graph queries in the form of the Regular Queries, i.e., queries which combine recursive and pattern-matching fragments. Current approaches to their evaluation are not effective in practice. Towards addressing this, we present a number of novel powerful optimization techniques which aim to constrain the intermediate results during query evaluation. We show how these techniques can be planned effectively and executed efficiently towards the first practical evaluation solution for complex navigational queries on real-world workloads. Indeed, our experimental results show several orders of magnitude improvement in query evaluation performance over state-of-the-art techniques on a wide range of queries on diverse datasets.
Combined Effects of Nitrogen Deposition and Climate on Root-to-Shoot Ratios and Root Morphology in Temperate Tree Regeneration
Authors: Dietrich Viktoria , Niederberger Jörg , Patriarca Nico Espadilha , Becker Meike E. , Müller Stefan , Lorösch Hannah , Boll Sophie , Hoque Naima , Jüngling Helena , Beck Nico , Dierks Adrian , Ebert Pauline , Troidl Emma , Hauck Markus
Published: January 2025

Nitrogen (N) availability is known to interact with the drought tolerance in plants, but its effects on the morphological acclimation of forest trees to low precipitation have rarely been investigated. Based on a Germany-wide field-study design covering different combinations of climatic conditions and atmospheric N deposition, we harvested young trees up to 70 cm in height of Fagus sylvatica, Quercus petraea, Pseudotsuga menziesii, and Abies alba. We tested the hypothesis that high N deposition decreases the root/shoot ratio, alters fine root morphology (for example, by reducing specific root length of absorptive roots) and reduces mycorrhizal colonization rate, which are factors that would reduce the capacity for water uptake under drought. European beech showed reduced root/shoot ratios at high N deposition and reduced specific root length and mycorrhizal colonization of absorptive roots at sites with both high N deposition and low precipitation. These observations were consistent with the optimal portioning theory, as less investment in belowground biomass was required to meet the N demand at high N deposition. Sessile oak showed no effect of N deposition or mean annual precipitation on the parameters studied, indicating that the gradients studied were not large enough to cause changes. Douglas-fir and silver fir expanded their root systems with increasing N deposition, with higher specific root length in Douglas-fir and a trend towards higher root tip abundance in silver fir. Thus, in contrast to European beech, we found no indication that the tree's ability to cope with drought was reduced by high N deposition in sessile oak, Douglas-fir, and silver fir. The combined negative effect of drought and high N deposition on the root system in European beech as Central Europe’s most dominant tree species in the natural vegetation emphasizes the need for curtailing N emissions, especially from agriculture.
Exploring the influence of medical staffing and birth volume on observed-to-expected cesarean deliveries: a panel data analysis of integrated obstetric and gynecological departments in Germany
Authors: Stöcker Arno , Pfaff Holger , Scholten Nadine , Kuntz Ludwig
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Cesarean deliveries account for approximately one-third of all births in Germany, prompting ongoing discussions on cesarean section rates and their connection to medical staffing and birth volume. In Germany, the majority of departments integrate obstetric and gynecological care within a single department.

Methods

The analysis utilized quality reports from German hospitals spanning 2015 to 2019. The outcome variable was the annual risk-adjusted cesarean section ratio—a metric comparing expected to observed cesarean sections. Explanatory variables included annual counts of physicians, midwives, and births. To account for case number-related staffing variations, full-time equivalent midwife and physician staff positions were normalized by the number of deliveries. Uni- and multivariate panel models were applied, complemented by multiple instrument variable analyses, including two-stage least square and generalized method of moments models.

Results

Incorporating data from 509 integrated obstetric departments and 2089 observations, representing 2,335,839 deliveries with 720,795 cesarean sections (over 60% of all inpatient births in Germany), multivariate model with fixed effects revealed a statistically significant positive association between the number of physicians per birth and the risk-adjusted cesarean section ratio (0.004, p = 0.004). Two-stage least square instrument variable analysis (0.020, p < 0.001) and a system GMM estimator models (0.004, p < 0.001) validated these results, providing compelling evidence for a causal relationship.

Conclusion

The study established a robust connection between the number of physicians per birth and the risk-adjusted cesarean section ratio in integrated obstetric and gynecological departments in Germany. While the cause of the effect remains unclear, one possible explanation is a lack of specialization within these departments due to the combined provision of both obstetric and gynecological care.
Response rate of submerged macrophyte chlorophyll content under changing light conditions
Authors: Estlander Satu , Rajala Salla , Pippingsköld Ella , Nurminen Leena , Horppila Jukka
Published: January 2025

Lake browning, i.e., a gradual and long-term increase in the water colour, is a recognized and topical water quality problem that has received much less attention in water protection than eutrophication. Thus, new bioindicators that respond to environmental stress are needed to monitor lake browning. Recent study suggests that the chlorophyll content of macrophytes is a promising indicator for assessing lake browning, yet little is known about how quickly the changes in the total chlorophyll content of aquatic plants occur. For instance, it is not known whether the plants adjust their chlorophyll content to the daily changes in light availability or to the longer-term light environment in the lake. Therefore, the response time of macrophytes to changes in light availability needs to be clarified to assess their suitability for detecting changes in water quality. The objectives of this experimental study were to investigate the chlorophyll content of Egeria densa and their response time to changes in light availability. No significant change in total chlorophyll content was observed in E.densa, but our study showed a change in macrophyte chlorophyll a:b ratio within 5–7 days of light intensity alternation, suggesting the chlorophyll ratio can be a more promising indicator for the light conditions varying on the daily scale than the snapshot weather monitoring. Thus, our study corroborates the idea of using macrophytes as bioindicators of browning.
A parametric insurance policy for beekeepers and honey production: random forest regressions and real-world pricing
Authors: Colivicchi Ilaria , Dell’Acqua Silvia , Russo Vincenzo
Published: January 2025

In the past years, climate change has affected honey production more and more and the reduction has become a significant risk for beekeepers. In this paper, we discuss the pricing of a parametric insurance policy drafted to cover the potential losses in terms of honey production due to unfavorable weather conditions: the payment of the insurance benefit is triggered by the breaching of predefined thresholds of a weather index, measured over specific relevant periods. The effectiveness of the coverage is verified by the means of random forests, where the honey production is forecast under different real-world weather scenarios and the beekeepers’ loss is compared with the insurance benefit reimbursed (or not) by the policy. The random forest technique is put along with more common ones, such as ordinary least squares regression and mixed linear models. A practical example is given for the Italian market, where the pricing is derived and assessed for three different zones: North, Centre, and South.
On vanishing diffusivity selection for the advection equation
Authors: Mescolini Giulia , Pitcho Jules , Sorella Massimo
Published: January 2025

We study the advection equation along vector fields singular at the initial time. More precisely, we prove that for divergence-free vector fields in

$$L^1_{loc}((0,T];BV(\mathbb {T}^d;\mathbb {R}^d))\cap L^2((0,T) \times \mathbb {T}^d;\mathbb {R}^d))$$

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, there exists a unique vanishing diffusivity solution. This class includes the vector field constructed by Depauw in [13], for which there are infinitely many distinct bounded solutions to the advection equation.
Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound healing effects of pterostilbene in human gingival fibroblasts in vitro
Authors: Yerebakan Mukaddes , Tuter Gulay , Bagriacik Emin Umit , Oruklu Nihan , Guldurur Tugce
Published: January 2025

We aimed to investigate the wound-healing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of pterostilbene (PTS) on human gingival fibroblasts (GF). Different concentrations of PTS were applied to GFs and cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. GFs were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the study groups were determined as LPS, LPS + 1 μM PTS, LPS + 10 μM PTS, and control. The most effective PTS concentrations were applied in a wound-healing model, with cell counts in the wound area assessed at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h. The effect of PTS on the release of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and collagen type I (COL I) was assessed at 24 and 48 h by ELISA. The data was statistically analyzed. Our results showed that PTS had a dose-dependently negative effect on wound healing and cell proliferation at 10 μM concentration, but not at low concentration (1 μM). PTS exhibited a potent anti-inflammatory effect by reducing IL-6 and TNF-α levels, while also enhancing antioxidant activity, as evidenced by increased GSH-Px levels in the LPS + 1 μM PTS group (P < 0.05). According to our results, PTS could be a potential and promising substance with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on LPS-stimulated GF. Therefore our results have merit in terms of providing pioneering data for future studies.
Boosting nutritional value: the role of iron fortification in meat and meat products
Authors: Hamad Ahmed , Singh Pallavi
Published: January 2025

Iron deficiency is a widespread nutritional problem affecting millions of people globally, leading to various health issues including anemia. Iron fortification of meat and meat products has emerged as an effective strategy to combat this issue. This review explores the process and benefits of iron fortification, focusing on the types of iron compounds suitable for fortification, such as ferrous sulfate and ferric pyrophosphate, their bioavailability, and their impact on the sensory and nutritional qualities of meat products. Technological challenges and solutions, including encapsulation, chelation, and microencapsulation techniques, have been examined to minimize their negative impacts on sensory qualities. This review also discusses the regulatory framework governing iron fortification and consumer acceptance. Analytical methods for determining iron content, such as spectrophotometric and colorimetric detection, are discussed. Although iron-fortified meat products offer health benefits, sensory aspects and consumer acceptance are important considerations. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the role and significance of iron fortification in meat products as a public health intervention to address iron deficiency.
Modeling the Impact of Extreme Climate Events on Household Welfare: An Empirical Framework
Authors: Spencer Nekeisha , Strobl Eric
Published: January 2025

This paper provides a review of the main empirical challenges involved in quantitatively estimating the impact of extreme climate events on household welfare at the micro-level. To this end, it first outlines a conceptual framework of extreme climate event damage modeling that can aid in terms of considering the ideal input and damage function requirements to create appropriate proxies. It then considers the use of imperfect versions of these proxies in a general econometric framework designed for typical data contexts, and the implications with regard to the interpretation of the results for the impact on household welfare. Using four extreme climate event type case studies, namely tropical cyclones, flooding, extreme heat, and droughts, the study outlines and discusses their respective challenges within the proposed framework.
Internationalisation patterns of academic spin-offs
Authors: Camelo-Ordaz Carmen , Dianez-Gonzalez Juan Pablo , Franco-Leal Noelia , Sousa-Ginel Elena
Published: January 2025

The aim of this paper is twofold. Firstly, to analyse the international behaviour of academic spin-offs to explore the internationalisation patterns followed by these companies, considering precocity, scale, and scope as the key dimensions of the internationalisation process. The second objective is to discern whether academic spin-offs that follow different patterns present distinctive characteristics. To test the hypotheses, a cluster analysis, a series of ANOVA analyses of variance and post hoc tests were performed on a sample of 161 Spanish academic spin-offs. Results show that 49% of these firms do not internationalise and that three patterns of internationalisation exist in academic spin-offs: true born global, sporadic born global, and born again global. On the other hand, the results also reveal distinctive antecedent factors among the different internationalisation patterns. Thus, international industrial networks and management team functional heterogeneity are more relevant in academic spin-offs that follow the true born global and the born again global patterns, while global technological competence is significant for all three internationalisation patterns, and international academic networks present minor importance for the internationalisation process developed by academic spin-offs.
Nezha-D: Dynamic Characteristics and Design of a Ducted HAUV
Authors: Xie Hongfei , Jin Yufei , Bi Yuanbo , Zeng Zheng
Published: January 2025

Hybrid aerial underwater vehicles (HAUVs) can operate in water and air and are qualified for complex missions on the air-water interfaces. The unique working conditions put forward higher requirements for the propulsion systems of the vehicles. Present HAUVs’ propulsion systems mostly use propellers, but normal aerial propellers work inefficiently underwater, constraining the underwater applications of HAUVs. Besides, in-depth research of the thrusters, especially during the water-crossing process, is limited. These are two major factors that affect the further development of HAUVs. This paper aims to evaluate the feasibility of the ducted fan propulsion system and design a ducted HAUV with better underwater working capacity. Ducted fans have promising applications on HAUVs for higher underwater efficiency, but the outer ducts can lead to significant thrust loss during the water-crossing process. A novel experimental platform is firstly developed with the capability of collecting dynamic data of the thruster during water- air transition. The new water-crossing strategy and overall design of the HAUV are proposed based on the test results. The ducted HAUV is supposed to accelerate underwater and rush out with a certain speed to overcome thrust loss. A centroid adjustment mechanism has also been designed to realize the underwater motion switch for better efficiency. A prototype named “Nezha-D” is fabricated, and outfield tests are conducted to verify the feasibility of the new design.
Matrix-analytic Methods for the Evolution of Species Trees, Gene Trees, and Their Reconciliation
Authors: Soewongsono Albert Ch. , Diao Jiahao , Stark Tristan , Wilson Amanda E. , Liberles David A. , Holland Barbara R. , O’Reilly Małgorzata M.
Published: January 2025

We consider the reconciliation problem, in which the task is to find a mapping of a gene tree into a species tree. In this paper we present a method, where for a given choice of parameters, we are able to compute the likelihood for alternative reconciliations. We describe a Markovian binary tree (MBT) model for the evolution of species trees, a quasi-birth-and-death (QBD) model for the evolution of gene trees, and provide a recursive algorithm to compute the likelihood of a given reconciliation between a species tree and a gene tree. We derive our results using the theory of matrix-analytic methods, prove them using rigorous mathematics together with decomposition of sample path arguments, and describe algorithms for the computation of a range of useful metrics. We illustrate the theory with examples and provide the physical interpretations of the discussed quantities, with a focus on the practical applications of the theory to incomplete data.
Teachers’ goals for teaching writing to economically disadvantaged students: relations with beliefs and writing instruction
Authors: Ng Clarence , Graham Steve
Published: January 2025

This study examines how writing is taught to students from low socioeconomic status (LSES) backgrounds, considering the issue of writing underperformance of these students. A total of 241 Australian teachers from Grades 4 to 6 completed a survey questionnaire. Using an achievement goal perspective, structural equation analyses revealed the link between teachers’ beliefs about students’ cognitive attributes and the suitability of basic writing instruction, with their teaching goals and the frequency of teaching writing skills. Cluster analyses identified three distinct groups of teachers with differing goal profiles, beliefs, and writing instructional practices. The findings highlight the importance of mastery goals in teaching writing to LSES students.
Normative anti-normativity: when Dugin reads queer theory
Authors: Wilson Trevor
Published: January 2025

In line with a recent rise in anti-LGBTQ discourse within conservative Russian politics, Aleksandr Dugin has increasingly critiqued “postmodern” theories that allegedly underpin social diversity (sexual, gender, racial, etc.) within the West: queer theory, post-structuralism, and other theoretical accounts of identity and alterity. In Dugin’s argument for a political philosophy of Eurasianism, the Western endorsement of multiculturalism and pluralism is indicative of individualism and “Atlanticist” liberalism, therefore at odds with the traditional, nationalist collectivism of Eurasia. In this light, queer theory is a Western imposition whose philosophical premises directly contradict native, Russian traditions. Dugin’s attack on queer theory, however, mark a departure from the philosopher’s earlier career within the National Bolshevik movement. Throughout the nineties, Dugin was relatively sympathetic with the nascent LGBT movement in Russia: specifically within the political and philosophical circles of National Bolshevism, in which such figures as Eduard Limonov and Slava Mogutin coalesced with fascists and communists around a broad critique of Western capitalism and openly embraced homoeroticism and countercultural, queer dissidence. Dugin’s links to the LGBT movement are even relatively mainstream: his first wife, Evgeniia Debrianskaia, was a prominent gay activist, and both Debrianskaia and Dugin for a time viewed the Eurasianism’s goals as aligned with that of LGBT activism in Russia. This article examines the development of Dugin’s political philosophy in the context of his reading of queer theory. It first discusses the link in historical terms, in the connections between Dugin’s early post-Soviet career and post-Soviet Russian gay activism. The article then focuses on Dugin’s philosophy of “multipolarity,” as a form of resistance to universalist, American hegemony, in order to illustrate how Dugin’s Eurasianist account of political “anti-normativity” both aligns and contradicts with his reading of queer theory. The article concludes with comments on the globalization of queer theory, cultural imperialism, and its relationship to Dugin’s geopolitics.
Shallow groundwater near a deep-well CO2 storage site—15 years of stable water quality for agricultural use
Authors: Zhou Zibo , Zhang Kexin , Callahan Damien L. , Timms Wendy
Published: January 2025

Injecting CO2 into deep geological formations can be an effective carbon removal and storage technology to mitigate global climate change. Interaction of injected CO2 with rock formations changes pH and hydrochemistry within the deep injection zone (> 800 m depth). However, cap rocks and multiple tight aquitards typically act as barriers to protect the shallow aquifer from changes in the injection zone. Monitoring and evaluation of shallow groundwater quality are essential to verify that carbon capture storage projects (CCS) do not impact the near-surface environment. This study investigated shallow groundwater quality using long-term data (2006–2023) from a regular monitoring program at the Otway International Test Centre (OITC) in Victoria, Australia. It was found that shallow groundwater quality was stable over at least 15 years, during which time three phases of CO2 injection into a deep storage zone occurred. The results highlighted groundwater quality complied with guidelines of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Australian water quality guidelines. Minor and localised changes observed in salinity or pH in shallow monitoring piezometers were caused by natural processes. Moreover, a wide range of groundwater quality indicators were evaluated. The results demonstrated that the groundwater quality of shallow aquifers (< 80 m) at OITC is suitable for agriculture. The study provides assurance and confidence to stakeholders that the quality of the near-surface environment has not been impacted by CO2 injection into confined formations and no pollution has been detected. Although numerous CCS sites around the world are subject to monitoring, no evidence of changes in shallow groundwater quality has been reported that could be traced to CO2 injection in confined formations at > 800 m depth.
Challenges and effectiveness of remote neurological follow-up of children with concussion following TBI using telemedicine
Authors: Demirtakan Türker , Işık Semra , Usta Tugay , Edizer Ahmed , Doğan Serkan
Published: January 2025

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children, including concussion, is one of the major causes of emergency department (ED) registration and a significant burden on the health system.

Objectives

The primary goal of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of a telemedicine strategy for remotely monitoring the children with traumatic brain concussions, focusing on their neurological symptoms and signs. The secondary goal was to explore socioeconomic and educational differences among the participating families.

Methods

This study was conducted in a prospective and observational fashion. It included children aged between 6 and 18 years who presented in the ED with head trauma and were subsequently diagnosed with a brain concussion. Enrolled patients split into telemedicine-only and telemedicine + readmission groups according to their concussion symptoms during video-call visits.

Results

We recruited 29 children and performed 75 telehealth visits. Four children were called for readmission, and they comprised the telemedicine + readmission group. The telemedicine-only group included 25 children whose follow-ups were completed remotely. The median PECARN score was 1 (IQR = 0.75), and the most common reason for head trauma was simple falls from the same level (n = 18, 62%); 22 (76%) children were suffering from headaches; 55% of the families were in very low-income status. During the video-call visit sessions, three children stated worse headaches, and one child’s parents reported consistent sleepiness.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the potential effectiveness of telemedicine in monitoring children with concussions, especially in regions with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and overcrowded metropolitan hospitals.
Parabolic carpets
Authors: Fraser Jonathan M. , Jurga Natalia
Published: January 2025

We introduce and study a family of non-conformal and non-uniformly contracting iterated function systems. We refer to the attractors of such systems as parabolic carpets. Roughly speaking they may be thought of as nonlinear analogues of self-affine carpets which are allowed to have parabolic fixed points. We compute the L

q
-spectrum of a class of weak Gibbs measures supported on parabolic carpets as well as the box dimensions of the carpet itself.
Data-ing process with image-based data: variable identification and generation
Authors: Kazak Sibel
Published: January 2025

Using photographs as data, which involves making observations from images and organizing them into variables to answer statistically investigative questions, is recommended for K–12 level statistics education. Research is needed to support pre-service mathematics teachers’ experiences with exploring such image-based data. With this task-based interview study, the goal was to shed light on (1) the pre-service mathematics teachers’ data-ing actions during identifying and generating variables in relation to data familiarization, question posing, and data organization components and (2) how pre-service mathematics teachers identified and generated variables in the process of data-ing. Data from video recordings, transcripts of the interview sessions for each pair, and their work with photos on the shared online document, that is, groupings and questions posed, were analyzed using a progressive focusing approach. The results showed that the data-ing actions during identifying and generating variables with data familiarization, question posing, and data organization included observing, interpreting, conjecturing, inferring, comparing, grouping, ordering, questioning/question posing, relating variables, categorizing variables, and measuring variables. The pairs used various combinations of multiple actions while data-ing. There were two types of variable identification: (1) observational variables based on visual judgment or metadata and (2) inferential variables based on personal interpretation. The latter type presented a tension between the variable defined and how to measure it objectively, as well as challenges in writing clearly defined variables when posing questions.
Effective Repeated Production of γ-glutamylcysteine, Essential For Intracellular Glutathione Production, Using Cellulose-immobilized Phytochelatin Synthase-like Enzyme NsPCS
Authors: Nakai Takuya , Hirata Kazumasa , Nagano Kazuya , Arai Masayoshi , Uyama Hiroshi , Hirata Yoshihiko , Muraoka Misa
Published: January 2025

γ-Glutamylcysteine (γ-EC) can increase intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels, which may prevent and alleviate age-related disorders and chronic diseases caused by oxidative damage. However, the commercial availability of γ-EC remains limited owing to its complex chemical synthesis from glutamate and cysteine. In this study, we have developed the method of the effective conversion of GSH to γ-EC to achieve the optimal reaction conditions for repeated batch production and potential application in industrial γ-EC production using the phytochelatin synthase-like enzyme NsPCS. For repeated batch conversion reactions, the optimal temperature was determined at 25 °C, where γ-EC showed good stability compared with that at 37 °C, leading to higher overall productivity. Cellulose sponges and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) showed superior mechanical strength as immobilization carriers and greater stability and productivity than other materials. The total amounts of γ-EC obtained by NsPCS immobilized on the cellulose sponge and MCC were 305 mg and 291 mg, respectively, in a 5 mL reaction over five repeated batch reactions. These simple production processes are easily reproduced, and their high volumetric efficiency is promising for the industrial production of stable and low-cost γ-EC.
Three paradigms of inquiry into self-regulated learning (SRL): a critical analysis and ways to transformative and integrated practices
Authors: Dan Qingyao , Yin Hongbiao , Bai Barry
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to review and conceptualize how researchers with different human interests understand and approach self-regulated learning (SRL) for their specific purposes. In this narrative literature review, three paradigms of inquiry into SRL guided by Habermas's three human interests (i.e., technical interests, practical interests, and critical/emancipatory interests) are presented in an interpretive way. It was found that, with various human interests, researchers' definitions of SRL, the understandings of the roles of students and social contexts, inquiry interests and intentions, and the methodologies adopted vary. By incorporating Habermas's three human interests into SRL inquiries, this article offers a comprehensive and critical narrative review of the three paradigms in SRL. Discussions about the extension of the established paradigm and the alternative approaches to SRL, emancipatory transformative practices, and the strengths and weaknesses of the three paradigms and their integrated application provide insights and implications for SRL research and practices.
Analyzing Shock Transmission and Spillover Effect in the Day-Ahead and Intraday Markets: Key Implications for Price Forecasting
Authors: Oprea Simona Vasilica , Bâra Adela
Published: January 2025

The increasing capacity in renewables (RES) and batteries in the Romanian power system stirred discussions on increasing interdependency between day-ahead market (DAM) and intraday continuous (IDC) market. In this paper, we analyze hourly market-cleared prices and selling and buying quantities in the DAM and IDC over 3 months (4th of June to 11th of September 2024) to verify the connectedness between prices of the two markets, possible shock transmission and spillover effects. We employ generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) models to examine volatilities. The Diebold–Yilmaz spillover index is 95.69%, demonstrating an extremely high degree of volatility interdependence. This suggests that nearly all volatility in both markets is driven by cross-market shocks. Price shocks in the DAM initially raise IDC prices by 0.3 units, with this effect fading after 8 to 10 periods. Conversely, IDC shocks similarly raise DAM prices by 0.3 units, but both effects are temporary, indicating a short-term dynamic link between the two markets. Moreover, numerical results from the BEKK-GARCH model highlight significant volatility spillovers between Price_DAM and Price_IDC, with stronger cross-market volatility effects and evidence of interdependence, particularly from Price_IDC to Price_DAM. The findings suggest implications for market players to create bidding strategies and decision-makers to mitigate price volatility connectedness in DAM and IDC. Furthermore, our findings underscore the critical role of knowledge creation and diffusion in understanding the interconnected dynamics of electricity markets. By leveraging advanced econometric tools and spillover analysis, our research contributes to the body of knowledge essential for innovation in market strategies and decision-making processes.
Assessing children’s capacity for procedural flexibility with mental addition
Authors: Hopkins Sarah , Russo James , Downton Ann
Published: January 2025

Children’s number-based procedures for mental computation have been widely studied but few studies have focused on children’s flexibility with mental computation procedures. In this study, we investigated children’s capacity for procedural flexibility with mental addition by developing and testing a novel assessment that required them to recognize an efficient strategy used by another (fictitious) child. Testing was conducted in eight metropolitan primary schools in Australia and involved administering the assessment to children in Years 3 and 4 (N = 853). The final version of the assessment comprised 23 items and produced data that were closely aligned to the Rasch model, reflected a unidimensional construct and showed good precision and excellent reliability. Findings from item analyses confirmed predictions about the problem features that evoke thinking about particular strategies and the comparative difficulty of strategy types. These findings contribute insights into how procedural flexibility may be operationalised, making it possible to compare instructional approaches for promoting procedural flexibility on a large scale.
De novo genome assembly and annotations of Bombus lapidarius and Bombus niveatus provide insights into the environmental adaptability
Authors: Eldem Vahap , Çınar Yusuf Ulaş , Çay Selahattin Barış , Obut Onur , Kuralay Selim Can , Balcı Mehmet Ali , Akbaba Pınar , Öğretici Tuana , Dabak Tunç , Özgişi Burcu Daşer , Özenirler Çiğdem , Zararsız Gökmen , Aksel Esma Gamze , Dikmen Fatih
Published: January 2025

Bumblebees are ubiquitous, cold-adapted, primitively eusocial bees and important pollinators for crops and vegetation. However, many species are declining worldwide due to multiple factors, including human-induced habitat loss, agricultural chemicals, global warming, and climate change. In particular, future climate scenarios predict a shift in the spatial distribution of bumblebees under global warming, with some species declining and others potentially expanding. Here, we report a de novo genome assembly and annotation for Bombus lapidarius and Bombus niveatus to decipher species-specific potential genomic capacity against such environmental stressors. With harboring more than 23,000 protein-coding genes, the assembled genomes of B. lapidarius and B. niveatus are 244.44 Mb (scaffold N50 of 9.45 Mb) and 259.84 Mb (scaffold N50 of 10.94 Mb), respectively, which exhibit similar trends in terms of genome size and composition with other bumblebees. Gene family analysis reveals differences in species-specific expanded gene families. B. lapidarius exhibits expanded genes related to pre/postsynaptic organization, while B. niveatus shows a distinct expansion in gene families regulating cellular growth, aging, and responses to abiotic and biotic stressors, such as those containing SCAN domains, WD-repeats, and Ras-related proteins. Our genome-wide screens revealed positive selection on environmental stress-responsive genes such as dip2, yme1l, and spg7 in B. lapidarius, whereas positive selection signatures were found in genes such as myd88, mybbp1A, and rhau, which are involved in environmental stress resistance for B. niveatus. These high-quality genome assemblies and comparative genome analysis unveil potential drivers that underlie genome evolution in bumblebees, offering valuable insights into environmental adaptation and conservation efforts.
Re-Gendering the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction: Experiences of Gender Diverse Groups from India and the Philippines
Authors: Sharan Aditi , Gaillard JC
Published: January 2025

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (SFDRR) has been a guide for disaster risk governance globally. With the popularization of the vulnerability paradigm, gender has been established as one of the social determinants of disaster risk. However, it is often used interchangeably with “women” based on the binary categorization of gender identity that dominates, including in the Western world, reducing it to a demographic variable denied of any voice, context, or history. This article explores gender beyond the binary in the SFDRR, disaster risk reduction (DRR), and the broader risk governance mechanisms through examples of hijras from India and baklas from the Philippines. It delves into a discussion on the influence of dominant Western discourses in the creation of gender categories and their non-Western realities through a post-colonial lens. The article deals with questions on hybridity of identities, power, control, resistance, leverage, and the unique capacities of gender diverse groups at the time of disasters and beyond, while investigating the space of such groups within global frameworks like the SFDRR.
Lessons from the Implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction from Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Cabral-Ramírez Mayleen , Niño-Barrero Yezid , DiBella Jose
Published: January 2025

Over the past decade, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) have made progress in implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (SFDRR). Still, significant challenges remain in assessing its impact. The region’s high levels of inequality and vulnerability to disasters continue to hinder the effectiveness of disaster risk reduction (DRR) efforts. This article emphasizes the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach in SFDRR implementation, particularly the role of regional intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and networks that promote collaboration among civil society, the private sector, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, youth, and marginalized groups. Despite government efforts to integrate SFDRR into national policies, gaps in stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, and governance limit DRR effectiveness. The article underscores the value of co-production for involving communities to contribute to designing DRR strategies that address their specific needs. Co-produced strategies can bridge the gap between high-level policies and practical solutions by leveraging local knowledge and fostering partnerships. The review of regional networks’ efforts highlights the central role of IGOs in coordinating DRR strategies. These networks help create innovative solutions that empower communities. The article advocates for thinking about the subsequent phases post-SFDRR, drawing on the lessons from the regional networks and calls for more strategic collaborations and experimentation as a model to promote effective governance of DRR by engaging multiple stakeholders to design and pilot locally-driven solutions that can accelerate the implementation of the priorities of the SFDRR to reduce disaster risks in LAC through collaborations that build capacity through action and ensure meaningful engagement.