bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Der Diskurs um § 218 StGB seit der deutschen Wiedervereinigung – Geschichtliche, rechtliche und ethische Aspekte des Schwangerschaftsabbruchs
Authors: Dienerowitz Florian Michael
Published: December 2024

Der Schwangerschaftsabbruch ist bis heute Gegenstand harter Diskussionen. Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über geschichtliche, ethische und rechtliche Aspekte der Abtreibungsdebatte in Deutschland mit dem Fokus auf die Entwicklungen seit der Wiedervereinigung. Dabei wird die Reform der §§ 218–219 StGB aus dem Jahr 1995 mit der Beratungsregelung im Zentrum beleuchtet. Auch werden Folgen der medizinischen Indikation und juristische Spannungsfelder thematisiert. Vor dem Hintergrund einer sich abzeichnenden Transformation des Schwangerschaftsabbruchs von einem strafrechtlichen Verbot zu einem reproduktiven Recht werden abschließend verschiedene rechtsphilosophische Positionen und praktische Problemstellungen der aktuellen Debatte dargestellt.
Predicting terrain effects on blast waves: an artificial neural network approach
Authors: Leconte R. , Terrana S. , Giraldi L.
Published: December 2024

Large yield airbursts generate powerful outdoor blast waves. Over long propagation distances, the blast is significantly altered by the topographical relief. Usually, the terrain effects are quantified by running accurate but expensive hydrodynamics or CFD codes. We present an alternative approach based on artificial neural networks, which is applicable wherever the blast–relief interaction can be approximated by an axisymmetric configuration. A database of overpressures associated with a very large sample of the French topography is constructed by running a high-fidelity hydrodynamics code. The proposed neural networks then learn the relationship between the relief geometry and the ground overpressures. The predictive ability of the networks is assessed extensively over a test database for several error metrics.

$${97}{\%}$$

97
%

of the peak overpressure predictions can be considered accurate for most practical purposes, and the pressure impulse predictions are even more accurate. Finally, specific artificial neural networks able to estimate the model uncertainties are presented and their performances are discussed.
Clozapine is a functional antagonist at cardiac human H2-histamine receptors
Authors: Schlicht Jonas M. A. , Ahlrep Undine , Hofmann Britt , Kirchhefer Uwe , Neumann Joachim , Gergs Ulrich
Published: December 2024

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic (neuroleptic) drug. Clozapine binds to H2-histamine receptors in vitro. We wanted to test the hypothesis that clozapine might be a functional antagonist at human cardiac H2-histamine receptors. To that end, we studied isolated electrically stimulated left atrial preparations and spontaneously beating right atrial preparations from transgenic mice with cardiomyocyte-specific overexpression of the human H2-histamine receptor (H2-TG). For comparison, we used wild-type littermate mice (WT). Finally, we measured isometric force of contraction in isolated electrically stimulated muscle strips from the human right atrium (HAP) obtained from patients during bypass surgery. After pre-stimulation with histamine, clozapine (up to 10 µM) concentration and time dependently decreased beating rate in right atrial preparations from H2-TG. Clozapine concentration dependently 1, 3, and 10 µM decreased histamine-stimulated force of contraction in HAP. Clozapine (10 µM) decreased also the isoprenaline-stimulated force of contraction in HAP. In summary, clozapine can antagonize the function of H2-histamine and β-receptors in the human heart.
Do greater coral cover
and morphological diversity increase habitat complexity?
Authors: Oh Daphne , Cresswell Anna K. , Thomson Damian P. , Renton Michael
Published: December 2024

Coral reefs are complex three-dimensional habitats where the sizes, shapes, diversity and composition of hard corals influence the overall reef structure, and thus the provision of shelter for reef-associated species such as fish. Various metrics have been used to quantify ‘habitat complexity’ on coral reefs, yet debate persists regarding the most informative metric and how effectively the available metrics capture ecologically meaningful functions such as shelter provision. We used Coralcraft, a three-dimensional mechanistic model, to investigate how the morphological diversity and composition of coral communities influences habitat complexity at local (metres) scales. We developed new metrics of shelter to capture the mechanisms by which structure is likely important to reef species, accounting for factors such as the size of predator and prey and different hunting strategies. We simulated the growth of 13 coral community types with varying compositions of 10 common coral morphologies, calculating coral cover and 10 habitat complexity metrics (six novel and four well-established) over a five-year period. We found that more diverse coral communities did not always have the greatest structural complexity and shelter, in part due to certain morphologies having disproportionate influence on the resulting habitat complexity. Communities with lower structural complexity did not necessarily provide less shelter. The relationship between coral cover and habitat complexity metrics varied widely between different communities and was often nonlinear. We conclude that accounting for the morphological composition of coral communities can vastly improve the ability to predict or infer habitat complexity—both structural complexity and shelter provision—from measures of coral cover.
Modeling relationships among beliefs about scientific knowledge, beliefs about justification for knowing in science, and argumentative reasoning about a climate-related issue
Authors: Yang Fang-Ying , Bhagat Kaushal Kumar , Brandmo Christian , Zhan Wan-Yue , Bråten Ivar
Published: December 2024

In a sample of 323 engineering students, structural equation modeling was used to test hypothesized relationships between beliefs about the nature of knowledge in science, beliefs about the process of justification for knowing in science, and argumentative reasoning about an ill-structured social-scientific issue. Beliefs about justification for knowing were directly related to argumentative reasoning, with beliefs in justification by school-based authority being a negative predictor and beliefs in justification by research-based authority being a positive predictor of students’ evidence- and knowledge-based reasoning, and with beliefs in personal justification being a negative predictor of students’ consideration of counterarguments. These beliefs about justification for knowing in science were, in turn, predicted by students’ beliefs about the certainty and development of scientific knowledge. The discussion highlights the multileveled and multidimensional view of epistemic beliefs that follows from our investigation, as well as the role of such beliefs in students’ argumentative reasoning.
Carbon storage potentiality in successional and secondary old growth forests
Authors: Pardos Marta , Calama Rafael , Alejano Reyes , Madrigal Guillermo , Calzado Anabel , Hevia Andrea , Tíscar Pedro A. , Vázquez-Piqué Javier
Published: December 2024

As the capacity of old-growth forests to store carbon until very old ages has been proved, their conservation has become a mitigation strategy to reduce net CO2 emissions and moderate climate warming. We investigated the effect of tree age, competition and climate on aboveground standing biomass and C stocks over a 50-years period in two Spanish forest stands (successional Pinus pinea forests with old-growth attributes, OGFA and secondary Pinus nigra old-growth Forest, SOGF), combining dendroecological methods with forest inventory data, using semiparametric modeling. P. nigra SOGF stored 69.9 t C ha−1 in standing volume, while P. pinea OGFA stored 58.2 t C ha−1. Carbon stored during the last 50 years increased in both forests, with a steeper increase in P. pinea OGFA. The fraction of annual C stored by the oldest trees was 20–25% in P. nigra SOGF and 17–23% in P. pinea OGFA. The different patterns of biomass growth increment in the two forests were explained by different biophysical environments, climate and history effects. The response to contrasted climate events was forest-specific. Results for P.nigra showed a similar response to climate irrespective of tree age, while biomass growth in P. pinea increased in humid periods compared to dry periods in trees older than 100-years. The negative effect of drought is evidenced in P. pinea trees over 100-years old, while P. nigra showed a cumulative negative effect of drought for all ages. A lower effect of competition was recorded in the oldest trees in both forests. The interaction of competition with climate and tree age showed attenuated climate-mediated differences when competition was high.
Tsunami risk mitigation: the role of evacuation routes, preparedness and urban planning
Authors: Ferreira Mónica Amaral , Oliveira Carlos Sousa , Francisco Rafael
Published: December 2024

The southwestern Portuguese coast, particularly the Algarve region, is at significant risk of an earthquake exceeding magnitude 8, which could generate a destructive tsunami. Coastal areas such as Quarteira and Vilamoura in the Loulé municipality are especially vulnerable due to their dense population of permanent residents and seasonal tourists, compounded by the long distances required to reach safety zones. Despite the known seismic and tsunami hazards, there have been limited studies that develop tailored mitigation strategies specific to tsunami evacuation. This study contributes to the tsunami science by evaluating potential building damages due to shaking and tsunami impact and providing decision support for evacuation strategies. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), tsunami scenarios are modeled based on historical seismic events, such as the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, to identify high-risk coastal zones and optimize evacuation routes, considering local topography and population density. Additionally, wave propagation and arrival times are analyzed to ensure timely access to population escape and to mitigate damage to critical infrastructures. Our findings contribute to the developing a comprehensive tsunami risk mitigation strategy for the Loulé municipality, focusing on prevention, public safety, and emergency preparedness. This research supports land use planning, disaster risk reduction, and emergency planning decisions while also advancing the understanding of urban risk by addressing hazards, exposure, and vulnerability in coastal areas. Key objectives of this study include acquiring and implementing historical tsunami data, assessing recommending evaluating the region´s vulnerability, and recommendations for good practices and mitigation measures. The study emphasizes the importance of raising public awareness, enhancing governance, and strengthening capacity to effectively reduce disaster risks.
A systematic review to assess current surface water and sediment microplastic sampling practices in seagrass and mangrove ecosystems
Authors: Greenshields Jack , Anastasi Amie , Irving Andrew D. , Capper Angela
Published: December 2024

Global plastic production is estimated to be 400 million tonnes per annum, with ~ 5.25 trillion fragments floating in our oceans. Microplastics (< 5 mm) have the potential to disproportionately accumulate and become trapped in mangroves and seagrass meadows, creating plastic ‘sinks’. This is concerning as these ecosystems are of great ecological and economic importance, with microplastics causing harm to inhabiting flora and fauna. However, accurately measuring microplastic abundance, comparing findings, and determining potential impacts are difficult due to a lack of standardised sampling protocols. Therefore, a systematic literature review was completed to review currently adopted microplastic sampling methods in surface water and sediment in seagrass and mangrove ecosystems. These were compared with recommendations from existing governmental and institutional groups as a first step to standardising methods for future sampling procedures in seagrasses and mangroves.
Optimizing genetic testing strategy for suspected attenuated adenomatous polyposis: effective solutions in public health systems
Authors: García-Simón Natalia , Valentín Fátima , Royuela Ana , Hidalgo-Calero Beatriz , Blázquez-Martín Ricardo , de-Miguel-Reyes Montserrat , Sánchez-Zapardiel José María , Adán-Merino Luisa , Rodríguez-Festa Alejandro , Gallego-Gil Patricia , Mediavilla-Medel Pilar , Quiñonero-Moreno Laura , Gutiérrez Lourdes , Herreros-de-Tejada Alberto , Sánchez Antonio , Provencio Mariano , Romero Atocha
Published: December 2024

Background

APC and MUTYH genes are key in hereditary attenuated adenomatous polyposis syndromes. Guidelines recommend genetic testing based on polyp count, often overlooking age despite its impact on polyp prevalence.

Aim

To enhance genetic testing strategies for suspected attenuated adenomatous polyposis by combining polyp count and age in a probability calculator.

Methods

Retrospective study of adult patients referred to NGS genetic testing for suspected attenuated adenomatous polyposis (accumulated history of < 100 adenomas) (discovery cohort, N = 138). Data included age, adenoma count, and test results. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to associate positive genetic test results with age and adenoma count. The model was externally validated with 259 patients from two tertiary hospitals in our region (validation cohort, N = 259).

Results

In the discovery cohort, 13 (9.4%) patients had pathogenic mutations, being younger (OR:0.91, 95%CI 0.86–0.96) and having more adenomas (OR:1.08, 95%CI 1.04–1.13) compared to negative cases. The logistic regression model combining age and polyp count demonstrated an AUC of 0.92. Using a cutoff probability of 3.5%, the model achieved 100% sensitivity and 58% specificity in identifying positive cases. In the external validation, the model accurately predicted 14 out of 16 positive cases (88%). The remaining two positive cases were a patient with an AXIN2 mutation in heterozygosis, and a patient with a NTHL1 mutation in homozygosis. Performance evaluation of both hospitals yielded AUC values of 0.77 and 0.90.

Conclusions

Older individuals with fewer polyps are less likely have hereditary syndromes. Including age in genetic testing criteria can enhance patient selection and cost-effectiveness.
The effects of haptic, visual and olfactory augmentations on food consumed while wearing an extended reality headset
Authors: Karhu Natalia , Rantala Jussi , Farooq Ahmed , Sand Antti , Pennanen Kyösti , Lappi Jenni , Nayak Mohit , Sozer Nesli , Raisamo Roope
Published: December 2024

The current food production system is unsustainable, necessitating a shift towards plant-based diets. Nutritious options fulfill basic needs but may not satisfy hedonic ones. Our novel approach is to promote healthier eating habits without compromising on the pleasantness of eating by using extended reality technologies and multimodal interaction. We present a multisensory augmentation system integrating augmentations in olfaction, touch, and vision. We studied the experience of eating plant-based balls and meatballs. In an experiment with 40 participants, haptic and visual augmentations were found to have significant effects: augmented meatballs and plant-based balls were perceived as bigger and heavier compared to non-augmented versions. However, olfactory augmentation did not produce a similar effect: participants did not notice a stronger aroma with augmented balls compared to non-augmented balls, and the augmented plant-based version had a less appealing scent than its non-augmented counterpart. Moreover, the findings of the study indicate that our multisensory augmentation system had no significant effect on taste perception.
The Injectivity Radius of Souls of Alexandrov Spaces
Authors: Mäder-Baumdicker Elena , Seidel Jona
Published: December 2024

A sharp lower bound for the injectivity radius in noncompact nonnegatively curved Riemannian manifolds involving their soul goes back to Šarafutdinov. We generalize this bound to the setting of Alexandrov spaces. Our main theorem reads as follows. If the injectivity radius of an Alexandrov space of nonnegative curvature does not coincide with the one of its souls, then it is at least

$$ \pi K^{-1/2} $$

π

K

-
1
/
2

, where K is an upper curvature bound. We introduce the soul of Alexandrov spaces in some detail and compare two notions of injectivity radii.
Optimized production of laccase from Pseudomonas stutzeri and its biodegradation of lignin in biomass
Authors: Minhas Waqar Rasool , Bashir Saira , Zhang Cheng , Raza Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Laccases are multi-copper oxidases that play an important role in the biodegradation of phenolic compounds, lignin, dye, and wastes. Here, we report the screening of potential laccase-producing indigenous bacterial isolates and subsequent optimization of laccase production using crop residues as cheap supplementary energy sources. Among 16 bacterial isolates, seven were selected based on the appearance of reddish-brown bacterial colonies and guaiacol oxidation assay after 10 days of incubation at 37 °C. The maximum laccase activity (2.755 U/mL) was observed for bacterial isolate WR2. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to maximize laccase production from WR2, identified as Pseudomonas stutzeri. Plackett–Burman design (PBD) was employed to design production runs involving various factors including time, pH, inoculum, wheat straw, cotton stalk, wheat bran, rice straw, copper sulfate, sugarcane bagasse, yeast extract, and peptone. The interactions of different factors were analyzed from the responses (laccase enzyme activity, etc.) in 12 experimental runs. In experimental run 4, the maximum laccase enzymatic activity (1.86 U/mL) was achieved after a 10-day incubation with wheat straw (1%) and cotton stalk (1%) at pH 6.8 and 37 °C, and high-degree lignin degradation was evident from a substantial reduction in the FTIR aromatic stretching peak of the degraded biomass.
A Hybrid Cognitive Architecture to Generate, Control, Plan, and Monitor Behaviors for Interactive Autonomous Robots
Authors: González-Santamarta Miguel Á. , Rodríguez-Lera Francisco J. , Fernández-Llamas Camino , Matellan-Olivera Vicente
Published: December 2024

Interactive robots not only need to react in predefined or deterministic scenarios but also learn and adapt in real-time, mirroring cognitive flexibility akin to human intelligence. Achieving this autonomy entails developing cognitive architectures that integrate reactive, deliberative and emergent capabilities. Thus, this paper presents MERLIN2, a hybrid cognitive architecture to generate, control, plan, and monitor behaviors in autonomous robots. This architecture combines reactive, deliberative, and emergent components, aiming to enhance adaptability in dynamic environments and make intelligent real-time decisions, thereby improving autonomy and performance. MERLIN2 comprises a deliberative system, based on a knowledge base and a symbolic planner; and a behavioral system composed of reactive components and several emergent components. It addresses core cognitive aspects like action selection, perception, memory, learning, reasoning, and explainability. MERLIN2 is evaluated in a simulated world and in the real world Carry My Luggage task from the RoboCup@Home. Therefore, the experimentation presented in this article showcases the architecture as a valid solution for autonomous robots.
Enhancing Swift and Socially-Aware Navigation with Continuous Spatial-Temporal Routing
Authors: Ge Zijian , Jiang Jingjing , Coombes Matthew , Liang Sun
Published: December 2024

Routing for autonomous robots in dynamic human environments requires paths that are collision-free, efficient, and socially considerate. This article introduces an optimization-based routing method that operates in continuous space using a spatial-temporal model of crowd dynamics. Our approach anticipates future crowd changes and adjusts routes by considering potential speed variations due to local motion planning. It optimizes navigation speed while avoiding densely crowded areas, ensuring efficient and socially-aware navigation. Simulations in three scenarios demonstrate superior performance compared to benchmark methods in terms of navigation efficiency and adaptability in crowded, dynamic environments.
Running Towards a Better Brand Attitude: How Gamification in Nike Run Club Can Help?
Authors: Lopes João M. , Silva Luis Filipe , Massano-Cardoso Ilda , Galhardo Ana
Published: December 2024

The dynamics of the knowledge-based economy are intrinsically linked to the concept of gamification, which has been increasingly discussed in the context of companies’ marketing strategies. It is therefore necessary to understand how gamification can be strategically applied in different contexts to increase the performance and competitiveness of companies. This paper aimed to analyze how gamification impacts customers’ intention to participate in the gamification process and how this strategy influences customers’ attitudes towards the brand. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted in a sample of 238 Portuguese consumers using the Nike Run Club application. The study revealed that gamification can be an effective tool to increase users’ interaction with brands. Perceived usefulness, perceived social influence, engagement intention and gamification performance were identified as the main predictors of gamification on brand attitude. Furthermore, social interaction is a key factor for the success of game systems, which should promote interaction between communities of players to share functionality and solve task problems. It was observed that attitude towards the brand is positively influenced by factors such as usefulness, perceived ease of use, social influence, intention to get involved, and gamification of performance, especially when these are mediated by the sensation of pleasure. This finding points to the importance of these elements in shaping consumers’ perceptions of brands. To maximize engagement with brands, gamification tools should allow sharing content and tasks, promoting discussions and broadening the connection between the gamers community. It is important to consider technological resources and innovation in the design of gamification tools, as well as to meet the different expectations of consumers, allowing different tasks and high connection between different information-sharing channels. This study contributes to the development of knowledge in gamification on brand attitude. Practical implications have been suggested to guide companies in implementing a successful gamified marketing strategy.
Comparison of Laboratory Confirmed Drugs in Acute Recreational Drug Toxicity Presentations to an Urban Hospital in London, UK, 2016/17 versus 2019/20
Authors: Wolfe Caitlin E , Sund Lachlan J , Archer John RH , Rowe Ashley , Hudson Simon , Wood David M , Dargan Paul I
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Novel Psychoactive Substance (NPS) use is increasingly prevalent and is often associated with severe acute recreational drug toxicity (ARDT). 258 UK deaths were attributed to NPS use in 2021. Confirmatory testing which identifies NPS is limited by expense and timeliness. We aimed to identify NPS and other recreational drugs in a sample of 1000 ARDT presentations to a central London hospital in 2019/20 and to compare these drugs to those identified from a previous cohort in 2016/2017.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 1000 serum samples from ARDT presentations to St Thomas’ Hospital between February 2019 and February 2020. Serum samples were deidentified and underwent qualitative analysis via mass spectrometry. Results were returned at the conclusion of testing and statistical analysis performed using ‘R’ (R Foundation for Statistical Computing).

Results

Twenty-eight unique NPS were detected in 2019/20, compared to 31 in 2016/17. Eight new NPS were detected in 2019/20: four benzodiazepines, two synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists, one cathinone and one ketamine-analogue. No NPS opioids were detected in either cohort. Cannabis (16%,11% p = 0.02), ketamine (12%,7% p < 0.01) and opioids (57%,24% p < 0.01) were detected significantly more frequently in 2019/20 than in 2016/17, while alcohol (22%,49% p < 0.01), cathinones (1%,15% p < 0.01), GHB (14%,20% p < 0.01) and MDMA (9%,18% p < 0.01) were detected less frequently.

Conclusions

Studies that utilise confirmatory testing to detect NPS in presentations of ARDT provide important information for public health interventions. More NPS benzodiazepines and fewer NPS cathinones were detected in 2019/20, following temporal trends of forensic detection throughout Europe and reinforcing the importance of identifying emerging drugs.
Long-acting parenteral formulations of hydrophilic drugs, proteins, and peptide therapeutics: mechanisms, challenges, and therapeutic benefits with a focus on technologies
Authors: Nakmode Deepa D. , Singh Baljinder , Abdella Sadikalmahdi , Song Yunmei , Garg Sanjay
Published: December 2024

Despite being the most widely prescribed formulation, oral formulations possess several limitations such as low adherence, low bioavailability, high toxicity (in the case of anticancer drugs), and multiple-time administration requirements. All these limitations can be overcome by long-acting injectables. Improved adherence, patient compliance, and reduced relapse have been observed with long-acting formulation which has increased the demand for long-acting injectables. Drugs or peptide molecules with oral bioavailability issues can be easily delivered by long-acting systems. This review comprehensively addresses the various technologies used to develop long-acting injections with a particular focus on hydrophilic drugs and large molecules as well as the factors affecting the choice of formulation strategy. This is the first review that discusses the possible technologies that can be used for developing long-acting formulations for hydrophilic molecules along with factors which will affect the choice of the technology. Furthermore, the mechanism of drug release as well as summaries of marketed formulations will be presented. This review also discusses the challenges associated with the manufacturing and scale-up of the long-acting injectables.

Graphical abstract
Microscopic polyangiitis in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus: a unique presentation of pulmonary-renal syndrome and case report of an overlap syndrome
Authors: Zhang Chen-xing , Yin Lei , Mao You-ying , Zhou Zheng-yu , Zhou Wei
Published: December 2024

Secondary vasculitis is encountered in about one-third of all cases of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Skin is most commonly involved in lupus-related small vasculitis. Although antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA) associated vasculitis (AAV) is relatively uncommon, it can be the most dangerous manifestation associated with high mortality. SLE and AAV are separate diseases with different pathophysiologies and an overlap syndrome has only been reported a few times in previous literature. We present a unique case of a pediatric patient of pulmonary-renal syndrome, presenting with pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Serological and biopsy findings were suggestive of SLE and AAV occurring, simultaneously. Renal biopsy demonstrated necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis, superimposed on diffuse segmental proliferative lupus glomerulonephritis class IV. The presentations of autoimmune diseases and vasculitis can be multi-systemic. Considering overlap syndromes, especially in patients with underlying connective tissue disease or systemic vasculitis, is vital for prompt therapy and prevention of morbidity in this population.
Fanconi syndrome following administration of oral supplements containing red yeast rice: several months follow-up of three cases
Authors: Matsui-Hosoya Reina , Sato Koji , Yagasaki Motohiro , Hirose Hitomi , Fukao Yusuke , Kano Toshiki , Io Hiroaki , Suzuki Yusuke
Published: December 2024

To date, the treatment strategy and long-term prognosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) after taking Benikoji CholesteHelp®, a red yeast rice supplement, remains unclear. We present three cases wherein renal dysfunction improved within a few months of supplement discontinuation, without immunosuppressive therapy. Case 1: A 59-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, treated with telmisartan (serum creatinine [sCr]: 0.65 mg/dL; estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]: 71.3 mL/min/1.73 m2) and Benikoji CholesteHelp® for 7 months, developed Fanconi syndrome (FS) and severe renal impairment (sCr: 2.32 mg/dL; eGFR: 17.7 mL/min/1.73 m2). Renal biopsy and gallium-67 scintigraphy revealed no active drug-induced interstitial nephritis. Her condition improved significantly after supplement discontinuation. Her renal function gradually improved, with 3-month follow-up sCr and eGFR values of 0.96 mg/dL and 46.5 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively; however, these were still worse than the pre-onset values. Case 2: A 48-year-old man had mild renal dysfunction (sCr: 1.12 mg/dL; eGFR: 56.76 mL/min/1.73 m2) after taking Benikoji CholesteHelp® for approximately 2 years; this was reversed upon supplement discontinuation. Case 3: A 47-year-old man with FS and mild renal dysfunction (sCr: 1.09 mg/dL; eGFR: 58.5 mL/min/1.73 m2) after taking Benikoji CholesteHelp® for approximately 4 months, showed notable improvement in FS after supplement discontinuation; however, the mild renal dysfunction persisted. The primary intervention in all cases was immediate supplement discontinuation, leading to rapid improvement in renal function, without need for immunosuppressive therapy. These findings increase our understanding of renal impairment caused by red yeast rice, with improvement after withdrawal, sometimes after several months.
The Global Burden of Migraine: A 30-Year Trend Review and Future Projections by Age, Sex, Country, and Region
Authors: Dong Lingkang , Dong Wenqi , Jin Yuchen , Jiang Yumeng , Li Zhuangzhuang , Yu Dongzhen
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder causing significant disability worldwide. Despite extensive research on specific populations, comprehensive analyses of global trends are remains limited.

Methods

We extracted incidence, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) data for migraine from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 database. Trends were analyzed across regions, age groups, sexes, and sociodemographic index (SDI) using estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC). Predictive models (ARIMA) were used to forecast trends to 2050.

Results

From 1990 to 2021, the global burden of migraine significantly increased: prevalence increased by 58.15%, from 732.56 million to 1.16 billion cases, and incidence increased by 42.06%. The DALYs also increased by 58.27%. There were differences between the sexes: female individuals had higher absolute rates of migraine incidence and prevalence, but male individuals exhibited a four- to five-fold more rapid increase than female individuals in these parameters. Adolescents (< 20 years old) have the fastest growth in prevalence and DALYs. Regionally, high SDI regions having the highest age-standardized rate (ASR) and low SDI regions having the lowest ASR in DALYs. East Asia and Latin America exhibited the most significant increases in migraine burden, whereas Southeast Asia exhibited the most pronounced decrease. Predictive analysis suggests prevalence will continue to rise until 2050, particularly among male individuals and adolescents.

Conclusions

The global burden of migraine has significantly escalated from 1990 to 2021, with female individuals bearing a greater burden but male individuals showing a faster growth rate. Adolescents also face a rapidly rising prevalence. Disparities across SDI regions, countries, age groups, and sexes emphasize the need for targeted public health strategies. Focused interventions are required to mitigate the growing impact of migraines on global health, particularly among male individuals and adolescents.
Nachhaltigkeit und Weiterbildung(-sforschung)
Authors: Singer-Brodowski Mandy , Pätzold Henning
Published: December 2024

Die internationalen Anstrengungen für mehr Nachhaltigkeit sind vor dem Hintergrund des eskalierenden Klimawandels, der anhaltenden globalen Ungleichheiten oder des fortschreitenden Verlusts an Biodiversität zu einer der zentralen Aufgaben der Menschheit im 21. Jahrhundert geworden. Entsprechend vielfältig sind auch die Bezüge zwischen Nachhaltigkeit und Erwachsenen- und Weiterbildung. Die Forschung an den Schnittstellen zu Nachhaltigkeit, Bildung für nachhaltige Entwicklung und Weiterbildungs/Erwachsenenbildungsforschung ist allerdings bislang kaum systematisch aufbereitet. Der Artikel bietet einen Überblick über Stand und Perspektiven der Diskussion zu Nachhaltigkeit in der Weiterbildung(-sforschung). Basierend auf einer Analyse historischer Bezüge und einer Begriffsbestimmung zu Nachhaltigkeit wird eine Heuristik zu nachhaltigkeitsbezogener Weiterbildungsforschung auf Ebene der Individuen, der Interaktion, der Organisation und der Gesellschaft entfaltet. Auf diesen vier Ebenen werden zentrale Fragen formuliert, einschlägige Theorien sondiert, empirische Erkenntnisse dargelegt und Forschungsdesiderate erkundet. Damit soll das relativ junge Forschungsfeld zu Nachhaltigkeit in der Weiterbildung sortiert und ein Rahmen für übergreifende Diskussionen im Themenheft eröffnet werden.
Variation in response of three Epichloë species, causal agents of ‘choke disease’ in grasses, to the novel fungicide mefentrifluconazole
Authors: Kułakowski Michał , Górzyńska Karolina
Published: December 2024

The fungal endophytes of the Epichloë genus produce stromata, which are external structures that prevent grasses from flowering and producing seeds, causing economic losses in grass-based crops due to a condition known as 'choke disease.' This study aimed to examine the impact of a new fungicide, mefentrifluconazole, on the mycelium growth of Epichloë fungi. The results revealed that percent growth inhibition (PGI) values recorded with mefentrifluconazole varied among the three Epichloë species tested, with the highest value in E. festucae (85.43 ± 0.81%) and the lowest in E. typhina (43.04 ± 12.00%). Compared to other fungicides (azoxystrobin and fenpropidin), mefentrifluconazole had a weak effect at low concentrations in two of the three Epichloë species tested. Additionally, in each of the tested fungal species, mefentrifluconazole had different effect compared to other fungicides (it was the most effective fungicide in E. festucae, the least effective in E. typhina, and in E. clarkii, its effectiveness was between azoxystrobin and fenpropidin, taking into account the highest possible PGI in a given species). When analyzing the EC50 values of all tested fungicides, it is difficult to determine the most effective inhibitor for all three Epichloë species. These findings provide new insights into the management of 'choke disease' in grasses. The variation in response of the three species to the novel fungicide mefentrifluconazole highlights the importance of studying different species of Epichloë simultaneously.
Privacy practices of popular websites in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhazmi Ahmed , Daghistani Anas
Published: December 2024

Preserving users’ privacy while exploring the Internet is a continuous challenge. Regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, and PDPL have been introduced to counter privacy-invasive trends. This paper introduces a framework for inspecting the state of popular websites in preserving the privacy of their visitors. The framework can be used to analyze websites in both Arabic and English languages. We use it to report the current state of popular websites in Saudi Arabia. We examined the state of these websites three months before the official enforcement of the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL). Therefore, the paper shows the degree of alignment for popular websites in Saudi Arabia with PDPL. We analyze 723 websites and explore their utilization of cookies. We examined whether these websites inform their visitors of cookie usage and obtain visitors’ consent. We assess whether these websites detail their privacy policies to their visitors. Our results demonstrated that approximately 85% of websites that use cookies don’t display cookie banners or policies to their visitors, potentially depriving users from their PDPL-specified rights such as being informed of data collection. Our analysis shows that 39% of the scanned websites do not follow the PDPL requirement of providing privacy policies, precluding users from knowing how their collected data will be handled and how they can exercise their rights under PDPL. In summary, our analysis highlights alarming practices that can potentially violate PDPL requirements.
Guided slow MHD waves in partially ionised solar atmosphere driven by a monochromatic source
Authors: Alharbi Abdulaziz H. , Hijji Hasan H. , Alqurashi Hazza , Moslem W. M.
Published: December 2024

When the temperature does not exceed $$10^4$$

10
4

K, in the solar atmosphere, plasma dynamics can not be investigated in a fully ionised state, meaning that a partially ionised plasma is required. Recently, partial ionised plasma has received high interest. In this paper, we study the numerical solution of the temporal evolution of magnetoacoustic waves driven by a monochromatic source in a thin magnetic gravitationally stratified flux tube in partially ionised plasma. For collision frequencies larger than ion-neutral collision frequencies, two fluid approximation is needed. We obtain the evolutionary equation analytically using the Laplace transform. Our findings show that waves connected to the charged mode propagate with a cutoff due to gravitational stratification, while waves in the neutral fluid decay very rapidly as a result of collisions between charged and neutral particles and can only propagate with a small wave length.
Observation of chiral Landau levels in two-dimensional acoustic system
Authors: Liu Yixian , Li Kaichong , Liu Wenjie , Zhang Zhiwang , Cheng Ying , Liu Xiaojun
Published: December 2024

Landau levels, previously proposed and verified in condensed matter systems, are conventionally achieved by introducing an external magnetic field that interacts with electrons. In phononic systems, people have proposed the method of applying strain to structures to form artificial synthetic magnetic fields, which in turn induces the emergence of Landau levels. While most of the current implementations about Landau levels are based on three-dimensional (3D) Weyl systems, the experimental realization of chiral Landau levels in two-dimensional (2D) Dirac acoustic systems remains an open and interesting topic. In this work, we present an innovative approach to generate the chiral Landau levels within a 2D acoustic system by introducing an in-plane artificial pseudomagnetic field. Through breaking the spatial parity symmetry and opening the Dirac cones, we introduce position-dependent effective mass terms to Hamiltonian and confirm the existence of chiral Landau levels by simulations and experiments. Furthermore, We verify the strong robustness of the zeroth Landau level to different kinds of defects. This work provides a feasible way to realize chiral Landau levels in 2D acoustic systems and suggests potential applications in other 2D artificial structures.
Engineering FRET biosensor for H3K9 acetylation imaging in single living cells
Authors: Li Shitian , Sun Chang , Harrison Reed E. S. , Cheng Leonardo , Gao Li , Liu Longwei , Wang Yingxiao , Peng Qin
Published: December 2024

Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic modification that governs gene expression, chromatin changes in stress response, and cell fate transition. FRET biosensors have been developed for various epigenetic events to enable spatiotemporal tracking of sub-cellular signaling events. Previously reported histone H3 acetylation biosensor recognizing two acetyl residues lacked specificity. In this study, using a single bromodomain of the BRD4, we have developed a genetically encoded H3K9ac biosensor. We systematically investigated different combinations of the BET family protein as binding domains and performed site-saturated mutagenesis to optimize the biosensor, achieving a dynamic FRET change up to 30% under TSA treatment. With the application of the optimized H3K9ac biosensor, we revealed different basal active chromatin architectures in invasive tumor cells compared to benign tumor cells. Furthermore, we found that H3K9ac level increased dramatically when cancer cells passed through microchannels, which models the physical constraints and mechanical microenvironmental conditions that cancer cells encounter when passing through narrow spaces within the body. This result highlights the chromatin plasticity in response to external mechanical stresses. In summary, our H3K9ac biosensor provides a versatile tool for mechanistic investigation of cell fate transition in cancer and mechanotransduction.

Graphical Abstract
Decolonising physical literacy for human and planetary well-being
Authors: Riley Kathryn , Delgado Lucy
Published: December 2024

Traditionally, physical education has focused on movement competency to develop skills for successful performance in different physical activities. Recently, however, the focus of many physical educators is shifting to notions of physical literacy to promote human flourishing through embodied experiences across multiple and diverse movement contexts well beyond physical education. While this shift is a welcome corrective to more traditional approaches to physical education, mainstream conceptions of physical literacy remain unduly narrow as rooted in colonial logics that continue to separate humans from the Earth while locating dominant categories of the human in hierarchical positions of power. In response, this article is an entanglement of Western and Métis embodiments of physical literacy. Deconstructing universalising models and modes of physical literacy set in dominant Western constructs, we seek to foster culturally relevant and meaningful physical literacy to promote physical activity and the wholistic health and well-being of Indigenous, or specifically, Red River Métis teachers and learners in Winnipeg, Canada. In doing so, we seek to provide a (re)visioning of human/Earth relationships as cultivated through movement-with Land; and thus, strengthen physical educational practices that more adequately attends to social (human) and ecological (Earth) flourishing in the context of global climate change.
Design and simulation of high temperature rise triple-swirler combustor
Authors: Wang D. , Li F. , Lin H. , Tan Y. , Wang K. , Wang D. , Zhao Y. , Zhao K. , Zhou T.
Published: December 2024

To meet the development needs of aeroengines for high thrust-to-weight ratios and fuel-air ratios, a high temperature rise triple-swirler main combustor was designed with a total fuel-air ratio of 0.037, utilising advanced technologies including staged combustion, multi-point injection and multi-inclined hole cooling. Fluent software was used to conduct numerical simulations under both takeoff and idle conditions, thereby obtaining the distribution characteristics of the velocity and temperature fields within the combustor, as well as the generation of pollutants. The simulation results indicate that under takeoff conditions, the high temperature rise triple-swirler combustor achieves a total pressure loss coefficient of less than 6% and a combustion efficiency exceeding 99%. Under takeoff conditions, the OTDF and RTDF values are 0.144 and 0.0738, respectively. The mole fraction of NOx emissions is 3,700ppm, while the mole fraction of soot emissions is 2.55×10−5ppm. Under idle conditions, the triple-swirler combustor maintains a total pressure loss coefficient of less than 6% and a combustion efficiency greater than 99.9%. The OTDF and RTDF values are 0.131 and 0.0624, respectively. The mole fractions of CO and UHC emissions are both 0×10−32ppm at the calculation limit of Fluent software.
Towards intermediate complexity modelling of contrail formation: the new dynamical framework RadMod
Authors: Lottermoser A. , Unterstrasser S.
Published: December 2024

Contrails are a major contributor to the climate effect of aviation. Mitigation efforts and technological improvements aim to reduce the contrail climate effect. Many currently discussed innovations (like using sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) or hydrogen) affect the physical processes and phenomena during contrail formation. Hence, understanding and analysing contrail formation is of great importance in the context of climate research. Ice crystal formation in a nascent contrail is completed within the first seconds after the engine exhaust is emitted. In the past, numerical models treating this early stage typically involved either a 3D or 0D approach. Whereas 3D models are computationally expensive, restricting the number of simulations that could be performed, less expensive 0D models allow to explore a larger parameter space but neglect plume heterogeneity and use a prescribed plume dilution. We present the new dynamical framework RadMod for contrail formation simulations that describes the evolution of a turbulent round jet emitted from an aircraft engine. Relative to large-eddy simulation (LES) or Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) 3D models of contrail formation, our model is computationally less expensive, enabling extensive parameter studies. The model accounts for the mixing of the hot and moist exhaust air with the cold ambient air through the solution of the two-dimensional advection-diffusion equation of momentum, temperature, and water vapour. The validation of our model is conducted through comparisons with empirical relationships and CFD results. In the near future, this model will be combined with an existing microphysical model, resulting in a contrail formation model of intermediate complexity.
The role of empiric atypical antibiotic coverage in non-severe community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Hartlage Whitney , Imlay Hannah , Spivak Emily S.
Published: December 2024

A β–lactam plus a macrolide or a respiratory fluoroquinolone alone is recommended as standard empiric antibacterial therapy for non-severe adults hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) per Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines. However, the evidence in support of adding empiric atypical antibacterial therapy, and specifically the addition of a macrolide, is conflicting and should be balanced with additional factors: the necessity of covering atypical organisms, benefits of macrolide-associated immunomodulation, harms associated with antibiotic use, and selection for antibiotic-resistant organisms. In this review, we examine the role of atypical coverage in standard treatment regimens for patients admitted with non-severe CAP and specifically focus on the addition of macrolides to β–lactams. We conclude that a subset of patients should not be given atypical coverage as part of their regimen.