bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Number of aftershocks in epidemic-type seismicity models
Authors: Molchan George , Peresan Antonella
Published: August 2024

The Epidemic Type Aftershock Sequence (ETAS) model describes how an earthquake generates its own aftershocks. The regular ETAS model assumes that distribution F of the number of direct aftershocks is Poissonian, however there is evidence suggesting that a geometric distribution might be more adequate. Let ${{V}_M}({{m}_ \bullet })$ be the number of $m > M$ aftershocks generated by ${{m}_ \bullet }$event. In this study we consider the ${{V}_M}({{m}_ \bullet })$ distribution within Epidemic-type Seismicity models, ETAS(F). These models include the Gutenberg–Richter law for magnitude and Utsu law for average ${{m}_ \bullet }$-productivity, but differ in the type of F distribution for the number $v({{m}_ \bullet })$ of direct aftershocks. The class of F is quite broad and includes both the Poisson distribution, which is the basis for the regular ETAS model, and its possible alternative, the Geometric distribution. We replace the traditional $M = {{m}_ \bullet } - \Delta $ threshold in $\Delta $-analysis with $M = {{m}_a} - \Delta $ where ${{m}_a}$ is the distribution mode of the strongest aftershocks. Under these conditions we find the limit ${{V}_M}({{m}_ \bullet })$ distribution at ${{m}_ \bullet } > > 1$. In the subcritical case, the limit distribution is extremely simple and identical to the $v({{m}_\Delta })$ distribution with a suitable magnitude ${{m}_\Delta }$. This result allows us to validate both the priority of the geometric distribution of F for direct aftershocks and the very concept of epidemic-type clustering on global seismicity data.
The economic cost consequences of suboptimal infant and young child feeding practices: a scoping review
Authors: Jegier Briana J , Smith Julie P , Bartick Melissa C
Published: August 2024

Breastfeeding is important for women and children’s health, but less than half of infants worldwide begin life with optimal breastfeeding. A growing literature shows consistently large economic costs of not breastfeeding, with global studies showing economic losses of around US$300 billion globally. However, existing studies are highly diverse in approaches, methods, data sources and country results. Building on a landmark 2012 UNICEF UK review focused on high-income countries, we conducted a scoping review to map and characterize the expanding literature and identify future research directions in this research area. We included studies (n = 36) in diverse country settings and outcomes for women and children. We used PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, MEDLINE, ProQuest and manual searches of cost of not breastfeeding studies published between 1996 and 2023. Articles were excluded if they were macroeconomic evaluations, did not assign monetary values or only evaluated breastfeeding or formula feeding costs and not outcomes or were cost of programs studies. We found considerable diversity in disciplinary approaches and differences in methodologies. Though there were different cost measurement perspectives (societal, institutional/payer and individual), all but two excluded the costs of unpaid care. Studies typically measured costs of medical treatment, with more recent studies using dynamic simulation models. The largest economic costs were derived from lifetime estimates of human capital losses, namely cost of premature death and loss of intelligence quotient points. Medical and death costs varied widely depending on method of calculation, but total costs consistently exceeded $US100 billion annually for the USA, and around $US300 billion in global studies. Our findings suggest that greater interdisciplinary collaboration is needed particularly to better define infant feeding exposures, and advance comprehensive measurement of costs and outcomes across lifetimes, in order to prioritize breastfeeding as a public health strategy of economic importance.
6. Identity and Attitudes Towards Trade
Authors: Alexandra Guisinger
Published: August 2024

International trade shapes everyday lives and life chances the world over. Trade also can strengthen global cooperation or create conflict. Although trade policy is often considered within the purview of domestic and international elites, the public’s attitudes towards trade have both shaped and stymied elite behaviour. Understanding how individuals develop preferences about trade policy is challenging but can help explain when and how the public matters. Economic explanations based on individuals’ employment and consumption patterns underpin most scholarly work in this area but such models fall short in predicting individuals’ stated preferences and voting patterns. This work considers alternative explanations, rooted in race and gender, for individuals’ preferences for trade policy. It concludes by showing that political and media messaging serve to highlight and replicate gender- and race-based biases in trade.
13. The Political Economy of Global Inequality
Authors: Lockwood Erin
Published: August 2024

The GPE is characterized by tremendous disparities in wealth and income both within and between countries. Patterns of inequality have their origins in both historical institutions, like colonial extraction, as well as contemporary institutions, like the liberal trading order and financial capitalism. Although typically measured in economic terms, this work shows that the consequences of global inequality go beyond wealth and income to affect political institutions, labor conditions, and migration pressures and restrictions. However, not everyone agrees that global inequality is inherently a bad thing: some approaches to global justice emphasize absolute measures of economic well-being, such as GDP growth or declines in the number of people living in poverty, over relative concepts like levels of inequality. Nonetheless, many scholars and practitioners would prefer to reduce the level of global inequality in practice, and this work concludes with an overview of some policies that have been proposed as partial solutions.
Foreign Policy Analysis
Authors: Brummer Klaus , Oppermann Kai
Published: August 2024

Foreign Policy Analysis provides a guide to core foreign policy approaches, drawing insights from international relations and non-Western perspectives. Chapters put theoretical approaches front and centre without neglecting the right connection with international relations theories. This book challenges Western-centric perspectives on foreign policy analysis and reflects the rise of non-Western scholarship in the field. After an introduction to the topic, the first part of the book looks at various international relations theories such as realism, liberalism, constructivism, and critical theories. The second part moves on to cover domestic politics approaches and discusses two-level games, organisational behaviour, and bureaucratic politics. The third and final part looks at psychological and cognitive approaches, including examinations of prospect theory, operational code, leadership trait analysis, poliheuristic theory, analogies and metaphors, and the groupthink model. It ends with some perspectives.
6. Gender and foreign policy
Authors: Guerrina Roberta
Published: August 2024

This chapter looks at the contributions of feminist approaches to Foreign Policy Analysis. Starting with a discussion of Feminist international relations, it examines the ways in which foreign policy as a field of study and practice is gendered. By challenging some of the assumptions underpinning Foreign Policy, the chapter opens a space for a more detailed understanding of the complex social and political structures that have come to define this field. The chapter covers issues around descriptive representation, leadership, gender mainstreaming, and feminist foreign policy. In so doing, it provides an introduction to key feminist approaches and debates on foreign policy and external affairs.
Discovery of bifunctional diterpene cyclases/synthases in bacteria supports a bacterial origin for the plant terpene synthase gene family
Authors: Chen Xinlu , Xu Meimei , Han Jin , Schmidt-Dannert Mark , Peters Reuben J , Chen Feng
Published: August 2024

Land plants are well-known producers of terpenoids that play diverse roles in plant–environment interactions. The vast chemical diversity of terpenoids is initiated by terpene synthases. Plants contain a distinct mid-sized terpene synthase gene family termed TPS, which appears to have an ancient origin in a fused bacterial Class I (di)terpene synthase (TS) and Class II diterpene cyclase (DTC), corresponding to the catalytically relevant α-domain and βγ-didomains, respectively. However, while such fused tridomain bifunctional (Class I/II) diterpene cyclases/synthases (DCSs) have been found in plants (and fungi), no examples have been reported from bacteria, leaving the origin of the fusion event initiating the TPS gene family opaque. Here, the discovery of such tridomain bifunctional DCSs in bacteria is reported. Extensive genome mining unearthed five putative bacterial DCSs, with biochemical characterization revealing the expected bifunctional activity for three. The most intriguing was CseDCS from Candidatus sericytochromatia bacterium, which produces ent-kaurene, an intermediate in plant hormone biosynthesis, as this is the hypothesized activity for the ancestral TPS. Unlike the extant functionally equivalent TPSs, it was possible to split CseDCS into separate, independently acting DTC and TS, with the first producing the expected ent-copalyl diphosphate (CPP), serving as a CPP synthase (CPS), while the second converts this to ent-kaurene, serving as a kaurene synthase (KS). Nevertheless, sequence alignment and mutation analysis revealed intriguing similarities between this cyanobacterial fused CPS–KS and functionally equivalent TPSs. Regardless of the exact relationship, the discovery of fused bifunctional DCSs in bacteria supports the hypothesized origin of the plant TPS family from such a bacterial gene.
Mucosal and Transmural Healing and Long-term Outcomes in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Sands Bruce E , Danese Silvio , Chapman J Casey , Gurjar Khushboo , Grieve Stacy , Thakur Deepika , Griffith Jenny , Joshi Namita , Kligys Kristina , Dignass Axel
Published: August 2024

Background

Healing in Crohn’s disease is complex and difficult to measure due to incongruencies between clinical symptoms and disease states. Mucosal healing (MH) and transmural healing (TH) are increasingly used to measure clinical improvement in Crohn’s disease, but definitions of MH and TH can vary across studies, and their relationship to long-term outcomes is not clear. To address this knowledge gap, we performed a systematic literature review (SLR) to examine studies measuring MH and TH in Crohn’s disease.

Methods

Database records from 2012 to 2022 were searched for real-world evidence and interventional studies that reported the association of MH or TH with clinical, economic, or quality of life outcomes of adult patients with Crohn’s disease.

Results

A total of 46 studies were identified in the systematic literature review, representing a combined patient population of 5530. Outcomes of patients with MH were reported by 39 studies; of these, 14 used validated scales for endoscopic assessment. Thirteen studies reported outcomes of patients with TH. Among studies that examined the outcomes of patients with and without MH or TH, patients with healing generally experienced improved clinical outcomes and reduced healthcare resource utilization, including fewer hospitalizations and surgeries and improved rates of clinical remission. This was especially true for patients with TH.

Conclusions

Mucosal and transmural healing are associated with positive long-term outcomes for adult patients with Crohn’s disease. The adoption of standardized measures and less invasive assessment tools will maximize the benefits of patient monitoring.
Moving in an Uncertain World: Robust and Adaptive Control of Locomotion from Organisms to Machine Intelligence
Authors: Mongeau Jean-Michel , Yang Yu , Escalante Ignacio , Cowan Noah , Jayaram Kaushik
Published: August 2024

Synopsis

Whether walking, running, slithering, or flying, organisms display a remarkable ability to move through complex and uncertain environments. In particular, animals have evolved to cope with a host of uncertainties—both of internal and external origin—to maintain adequate performance in an ever-changing world. In this review, we present mathematical methods in engineering to highlight emerging principles of robust and adaptive control of organismal locomotion. Specifically, by drawing on the mathematical framework of control theory, we decompose the robust and adaptive hierarchical structure of locomotor control. We show how this decomposition along the robust–adaptive axis provides testable hypotheses to classify behavioral outcomes to perturbations. With a focus on studies in non-human animals, we contextualize recent findings along the robust–adaptive axis by emphasizing two broad classes of behaviors: (1) compensation to appendage loss and (2) image stabilization and fixation. Next, we attempt to map robust and adaptive control of locomotion across some animal groups and existing bio-inspired robots. Finally, we highlight exciting future directions and interdisciplinary collaborations that are needed to unravel principles of robust and adaptive locomotion.
Artificial Intelligence for Climate Change Biology: From Data Collection to Predictions
Authors: Levy Ofir , Shahar Shimon
Published: August 2024

Synopsis

In the era of big data, ecological research is experiencing a transformative shift, yet big-data advancements in thermal ecology and the study of animal responses to climate conditions remain limited. This review discusses how big data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) can significantly enhance our understanding of microclimates and animal behaviors under changing climatic conditions. We explore AI’s potential to refine microclimate models and analyze data from advanced sensors and camera technologies, which capture detailed, high-resolution information. This integration can allow researchers to dissect complex ecological and physiological processes with unprecedented precision. We describe how AI can enhance microclimate modeling through improved bias correction and downscaling techniques, providing more accurate estimates of the conditions that animals face under various climate scenarios. Additionally, we explore AI’s capabilities in tracking animal responses to these conditions, particularly through innovative classification models that utilize sensors such as accelerometers and acoustic loggers. For example, the widespread usage of camera traps can benefit from AI-driven image classification models to accurately identify thermoregulatory responses, such as shade usage and panting. AI is therefore instrumental in monitoring how animals interact with their environments, offering vital insights into their adaptive behaviors. Finally, we discuss how these advanced data-driven approaches can inform and enhance conservation strategies. In particular, detailed mapping of microhabitats essential for species survival under adverse conditions can guide the design of climate-resilient conservation and restoration programs that prioritize habitat features crucial for biodiversity resilience. In conclusion, the convergence of AI, big data, and ecological science heralds a new era of precision conservation, essential for addressing the global environmental challenges of the 21st century.
Totally Geodesic Subvarieties of the Moduli Space of Curves and Linear Systems
Authors: Benirschke Frederik
Published: August 2024

We construct a linear system on a general curve in a totally geodesic subvariety of the moduli space of curves. As a consequence, one obtains rank bounds for totally geodesic subvarieties of dimension at least two. Furthermore, this leads to a classification of totally geodesic subvarieties of dimension at least two in strata with at most two zeros.
The Impact of Zika Emergence in Remote Communities in Northwestern Ecuador
Authors: Andrade Paulina , Sosa-Moreno Andrea , Vivero Sandra , Nipaz Victoria , Lee Gwenyth O , Cevallos William , Eisenberg Joseph N S , Coloma Josefina
Published: August 2024

The Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic in Latin America (2015–2016) has primarily been studied in urban centers, with less understanding of its impact on smaller rural communities. To address this gap, we analyzed ZIKV seroepidemiology in 6 rural Ecuadorian communities (2018–2019) with varying access to a commercial hub. Seroprevalence ranged from 19% to 54%, measured by nonstructural protein 1 blockade of binding enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We observed a decline in ZIKV seroprevalence between 2018 and 2019 that was greater among younger populations, suggesting that the attack rates in the 2015–2016 epidemic were significantly higher than our 2018 observations. These data indicate that the 2015–2016 epidemic included significant transmission in rural and more remote settings. Our observations of high seroprevalence in our area of study highlights the importance of surveillance and research in rural areas lacking robust health systems to manage future Zika outbreaks and vaccine initiatives.
Tracing Diplomatic Tutelage: (Post)colonial Pedagogies and the Training of African Diplomats
Authors: McConnell Fiona , Craggs Ruth , Harris Jonathan
Published: August 2024

Throughout the twentieth century, colonies emerged from the so-called tutelage of European imperial powers to represent themselves as sovereign states. One consequence of this change was an expansion in overseas diplomatic training, aimed at inducting into international life the hundreds of diplomats required to staff new foreign services. This paper interrogates the pedagogical and (geo)political practice of tutelage—where guardianship and instruction are held in tension—in order to shine a critical spotlight on programs training African diplomats, hosted in Britain, France, and Switzerland, and later in Cameroon and Kenya. In exploring practices of tutelage both within the classroom and at the international scale, we bring to the fore hitherto overlooked relational and temporal dimensions of tutelage that provide new insights into enduring paternalistic power relations as well as possibilities for agency and resistance. We trace the legacies of colonialism within these training programs but are also attentive to the ways trainers problematized the generalizability of their knowledge and pedagogy, and how African diplomats-in-training resisted relations of tutelage. In dialogue with scholarship on socialization and international education, we develop an enhanced conceptualization of tutelage that provides analytical purchase on inter-scalar relationships in world politics during and beyond formal decolonization.
In utero treatment of congenital cytomegalovirus infection with valganciclovir: an observational study on safety and effectiveness
Authors: Bourgon Nicolas , Lopez Remi , Fourgeaud Jacques , Guilleminot Tiffany , Bussières Laurence , Magny Jean-François , Ville Yves , Leruez Ville Marianne
Published: August 2024

Background

The treatment of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is usually administered to neonates after birth; however, it can be anticipated during the prenatal period by treating pregnant women in order to reduce the severity of the congenital disease. The most commonly used treatment for CMV during pregnancy is valaciclovir; however, valganciclovir has a higher potency against CMV and is the first choice for neonates with congenital CMV disease.

Objectives

We investigated neonatal and maternal safety of tertiary prevention in infected fetuses showing ultrasound features of infection using valganciclovir.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of pregnant women and their symptomatic infected fetuses taking valganciclovir, 3 × 450 mg per day. All fetuses presented at least one prenatal feature on ultrasound. We assessed fetal/neonatal and maternal safety, as well as neonatal efficacy of treatment. The main outcome was neutropenia. Secondary outcomes included other haematological side effects, symptoms at birth and neonatal CMV-PCR was positive.

Results

Seventeen women with singleton pregnancies received valganciclovir from a median (IQR) of 27.1 (26.0–30.3) to 11.6 (6.5–12.9) weeks of gestation. No neonatal neutropenia was reported. One pregnancy was terminated for severe features. Three newborns (18%) were asymptomatic at birth, including one with negative CMV-PCR from blood and saliva. CMV-PCR was positive for 12/13 symptomatic newborns, with a median (IQR) log10 viral load of 3.36 (3.30–4.20), 4.03 (1.75–4.27) and 3.04 (0.00–3.40) log10 copies/mL in blood, urine and saliva, respectively.

Conclusions

Tertiary prevention by valganciclovir appears to be well tolerated for both fetus and mother. However, more extensive trials accompanied by long-term follow-up are needed.
Characterization of a multiresistance optrA- and lsa(E)-harbouring unconventional circularizable structure in Streptococcus suis
Authors: Yang Qin , Li Luxin , Zhao Guanzheng , Cui Qingpo , Gong Xiaowei , Ying Luyu , Yang Tingting , Fu Mengjiao , Shen Zhangqi
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To identify novel genetic elements facilitating the horizontal transfer of the oxazolidinone/phenicol resistance gene optrA and the pleuromutilin–lincosamide–streptogramin A resistance gene lsa(E) in Streptococcus suis.

Methods

The complete genomes of S. suis HB18 and two transconjugants were obtained using both the Illumina and Nanopore platforms. MICs were determined by broth microdilution. Inverse PCR was performed to identify circular forms of the novel unconventional circularizable structure (UCS), genomic island (GI) and integrative and conjugative element (ICE). Conjugation experiments assessed the transferability of optrA and lsa(E) genes in S. suis.

Results

S. suis HB18 carried a multiresistance gene cluster optrA-lsa(E)-lnu(B)-aphA-aadE-spw. This gene cluster, flanked by intact and truncated erm(B) in the same orientation, resided on a novel ICESsuHB18. Inverse PCR revealed the existence of a novel UCS, named UCS-optrA + lsa(E), which could excise the gene cluster optrA-lsa(E)-lnu(B)-aphA-aadE-spw and one copy of erm(B) from ICESsuHB18. Two transconjugants with different characteristics were obtained. In transconjugant T-JH-GI, UCS-optrA + lsa(E) excised from ICESsuHB18 inserted into the erm(B)-positive GI, designated GISsuHB18, generating the novel GISsuHB18-1. Meanwhile, in T-JH-ICE, genetic rearrangement events occurred in ICESsuHB18 and GISsuHB18, forming the novel ICESsuHB18-1.

Conclusions

This is the first report demonstrating the functionally active UCS-optrA + lsa(E) excising from ICESsuHB18 and inserting into the erm(B)-positive GISsuHB18 during the conjugation process. The location of optrA and lsa(E) on a multiresistance UCS enhances its persistence and dissemination.
Comparative evaluation of two clinical sampling techniques for HPV detection in male genital sites: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Zhang Jinyu , Li Linge , Hu Shangying , Wu Ningbo , Guo Huiqin , Yin Jian , Chen Shimin , Dun Changchang , Pan Qinjing , Zhao Fanghui
Published: August 2024

Aims

The optimal sampling methods for detecting human papillomavirus (HPV) in male genital sites remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the performance, acceptability, and comfort of two sampling techniques for male genital HPV detection.

Methods and results

A total of 490 men aged 18–45 were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to undergo either the rub-brush (nail file followed by swab) or brush-only method (swab only) for sampling at external genitalia sites (PGS) and perineum/perianal (PA) sites. HPV distribution, specimen validity (β-globin as a quality reference), and participant acceptability and comfort were evaluated between the two sampling methods. The brush-only method demonstrated non-inferiority in detecting 14 high-risk HPV types (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/66/68) compared to the rub-brush method in both PGS (18.9% vs. 16.9%) and PA (10.5% vs. 11.9%). Although no significant differences were observed in positive rates for other HPV types, the brush-only method had a significantly higher invalid rate in PA (8.5% vs. 1.5%). Approximately 85.0% of participants reported good acceptability and comfort with both sampling methods, regardless of anatomical sites.

Conclusions

This study suggests comparable performance, acceptability and comfort between the two sampling techniques for HPV detection. However, the rub-brush method may offer an advantage in higher sample validity.
Synthetic cannabinoid identification in cases associated with blue lotus and valerian root vaping products
Authors: Seither Joshua Z , Karschner Erin L , Jackson Kimberly R , Deakin Anna , Roper Sara H , Walterscheid Jeffrey P
Published: August 2024

Synthetic cannabinoids emerged in the early 21st century and have continued to evolve and flourish to present day. Like other novel psychoactive substances (NPS), synthetic cannabinoids have been sold under the guise of legitimate products. Some examples include “potpourri,” “incense,” and herbal material. Between May 2020 and December 2023, the United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory, Drug Chemistry Division (USACIL) received 29 seized drug cases mentioning “blue lotus” or “valerian root.” In 90% of these cases, at least one exhibit contained one or more synthetic cannabinoids. During the same timeframe, the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System, Division of Forensic Toxicology received 65 toxicology cases that contained synthetic cannabinoids and/or their corresponding metabolites where case history mentioned “blue lotus.” The most frequently observed synthetic cannabinoids between laboratories were 5F-MDMB-PICA, ADB-BUTINACA, and MDMB-4en-PINACA. Innocuous branding and marketing may deceive law enforcement, investigators, and healthcare providers into believing that the adverse effects of erratic behavior, sedation, slurred speech, and hallucinations are a result of toxicity from botanical extracts (e.g. apomorphine and nuciferine in blue lotus). Due to the dangerous nature of these NPS, synthetic cannabinoid screening is recommended for all cases where there is suspected use of vaping products suggested to contain “blue lotus” or “valerian root” as vendors continue to conceal the presence of these compounds.
Assessment of Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCCOOH bias, precision, and ionization suppression/enhancement between solid tissue homogenate and supernatant by LC–MS-MS
Authors: Fagiola Michael , Phipps Rebecca
Published: August 2024

Liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC–MS-MS) assays are frequently utilized for screening and confirmatory purposes in the forensic toxicology laboratory. While these techniques are excellent for the targeted identification and quantitation of a wide variety of drug classes, validation and determining fit-for-purpose is a significant requirement for each method. In the USA, the American National Standards Institute and Academy Standards Board first edition of Standard 036 currently serves as a primary resource in forensic toxicology method validation and mandates that laboratories evaluate critical performance characteristics to help ensure the production of forensically defensible results. Due to the variability of specimen quality frequently encountered in the discipline of postmortem toxicology, the State of Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Forensic Toxicology Laboratory routinely analyzes solid tissue specimens as part of the medicolegal death investigation process and evaluates liver as a representative solid tissue matrix during method validation. Authentic postmortem specimens (e.g. liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, and spleen) were used to investigate the effects of analyzing solid tissue homogenate versus solid tissue supernatant on bias, precision, and ionization suppression/enhancement of Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCCOOH. Bias was <20% for Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCCOOH in liver homogenate and supernatant with a single exception of the low QC concentration for Δ9-THC in liver homogenate (–29%). Within-run and between-run CV was <20% for Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCCOOH in liver homogenate and supernatant. Δ9-THC and Δ9-THC-d3 exhibited significant ion suppression in both liver homogenate and supernatant, while Δ9-THCCOOH and Δ9-THCCOOH-d3 showed both ion suppression and enhancement in these matrices. Noticeable quantitative differences were observed in authentic postmortem solid tissue homogenate and supernatant specimens despite evaluating identical tissue samplings. A brief discussion of the results is presented using a validated LC–MS-MS method for the confirmation and quantitation of Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCCOOH in postmortem casework.
The emergence of bromazolam in Jefferson County, AL: a case series
Authors: Green Kesley D , Bianco Lisa M , McCleskey Brandi C , Scott Karen S
Published: August 2024

Postmortem toxicology is an ever-changing landscape presenting challenges for toxicologists and medical examiners. Trends can vary for certain benzodiazepines. While diazepam use tends to remain constant, alprazolam and clonazepam ebb and flow depending on prescription trends and street popularity. Novel benzodiazepines like etizolam vary in casework depending on legal restrictions and black market availability. In May 2022, the first case of the designer benzodiazepine, bromazolam, was detected in Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner’s Office casework. Between then and December 2023, an additional nine cases have been observed. Bromazolam is the brominated analog of the low-dose benzodiazepine, alprazolam, and is likely similar in potency. As bromazolam is a potent benzodiazepine, low concentrations of this novel drug are likely to contribute to central nervous system depression in opioid overdose cases. We present 10 cases in which bromazolam was detected in postmortem samples at the University of Alabama at Birmingham toxicology laboratory. The decedents ranged in age from 20 to 41 years. Most of the decedents were White (n = 8; 80%) and male (n = 7; 70%). Bromazolam concentrations ranged from 21 to 3220 ng/mL (mean 401 ng/mL). All but one case were polydrug, and all deaths were related to drug toxicity. Fentanyl was detected in 8 of the 10 decedents, with concentrations ranging from <2.5 to 97 ng/mL (mean 30 ng/mL). Additional drugs detected were methamphetamine, ethanol, oxycodone, methadone, cocaine, amphetamine, morphine, and diphenhydramine. While all manners of death were ruled as accidental, bromazolam was included in the cause of death statements in 9 of the 10 cases. Capturing important emerging drug trends in the death certificate is critical to help inform public health and medical colleagues for preventive measures and treatment in the continued drug epidemic.
Unlocking secrets: lipid metabolism and lipid droplet crucial roles in SARS-CoV-2 infection and the immune response
Authors: Soares Vinicius Cardoso , Dias Suelen Silva Gomes , Santos Julia Cunha , Bozza Patrícia T
Published: August 2024

Lipid droplets (LDs) are crucial for maintaining lipid and energy homeostasis within cells. LDs are highly dynamic organelles that present a phospholipid monolayer rich in neutral lipids. Additionally, LDs are associated with structural and nonstructural proteins, rapidly mobilizing lipids for various biological processes. Lipids play a pivotal role during viral infection, participating during viral membrane fusion, viral replication, and assembly, endocytosis, and exocytosis. SARS-CoV-2 infection often induces LD accumulation, which is used as a source of energy for the replicative process. These findings suggest that LDs are a hallmark of viral infection, including SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, LDs participate in the inflammatory process and cell signaling, activating pathways related to innate immunity and cell death. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that LD induction by SARS-CoV-2 is a highly coordinated process, aiding replication and evading the immune system, and may contribute to the different cell death process observed in various studies. Nevertheless, recent research in the field of LDs suggests these organelles according to the pathogen and infection conditions may also play roles in immune and inflammatory responses, protecting the host against viral infection. Understanding how SARS-CoV-2 influences LD biogenesis is crucial for developing novel drugs or repurposing existing ones. By targeting host lipid metabolic pathways exploited by the virus, it is possible to impact viral replication and inflammatory responses. This review seeks to discuss and analyze the role of LDs during SARS-CoV-2 infection, specifically emphasizing their involvement in viral replication and the inflammatory response.
Factors Associated With Nonprescription of Oseltamivir for Infant Influenza Over 9 Seasons
Authors: Zaheer Haniah A , Moehling Geffel Krissy , Chamseddine Sarah , Liu Hui , Williams John V , Martin Judith M , Rick Anne-Marie
Published: August 2024

Background

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends oseltamivir phosphate for children <2 years old with confirmed or suspected influenza as they are at high risk for complications. We analyzed infant characteristics associated with nonprescription of oseltamivir over 9 years.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective electronic health record (EHR) review of infants <12 months old born between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2019 within the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center health system in Southwestern Pennsylvania who had >2 well-child visits during their first year. Infants with a confirmed positive test for influenza were included in the analysis. Factors associated with infant oseltamivir nonprescription were assessed using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of 457 infants with confirmed influenza, 86% were prescribed oseltamivir. The proportion of infants prescribed oseltamivir increased from an average of 64.6% during the 2012–2016 influenza seasons to 90.4% during the 2016–2020 influenza seasons. Infants were more likely to not be prescribed oseltamivir if they experienced >2 days of influenza symptoms (odds ratio (OR): 9.4, 95% CI: 4.8, 18.7, P < .001), were diagnosed during the 2012–2016 influenza seasons (OR: 4.2, 95% CI: 1.8, 9.5, P < .001), tested positive for influenza via a multiplex/reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction test (OR: 6.7, 95% CI: 2.7, 16.3, P < .001; OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.1, 7.1; P = .04), or did not have a fever at point-of-care (OR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2, 4.6, P = .01).

Conclusion

Adherence to CDC influenza antiviral treatment guidelines for infants is high and improved over time. However, the provision of targeted education to providers may further improve oseltamivir prescribing practices for high-risk children <12 months of age.
Self-interest, Slavery, and the Exploitation of Elderly Slaves in the American South
Authors: Doddington David S
Published: August 2024

In this article, I show how the self-serving economic worldview of enslavers—and their belief that aging was a process of inexorable physical loss—motivated them to sell or abandon enslaved people as they grew older. It seeks to diversify our understanding of the exploitative character of American slavery by moving away from considering the vast profits gained by individual slavers, the systems of control or production on large plantations, and the economic value of slavery writ large, and to instead show how self-interest led antebellum slavers of low-to-middling means to offload the aged enslaved, and their stated need to avoid the obligations associated with paternalism on account of their own reduced circumstances. Rather than focus on the economic “efficiency” of slavers, or accede to their self-image as “masters”—whether of enslaved people or of the market—I emphasize their sense of insecurity and weakness when looking to rid themselves of elderly slaves. In doing so, I undermine their claims to mastery, underline how slavery was a system of exploitation enmeshed in wider social, economic, and political concerns, and provide direct evidence of the self-interest that shaped the actions of southern enslavers and the harm this caused enslaved people.
Identification of a novel gene, Bryophyte Co-retained Gene 1, that has a positive role in desiccation tolerance in the moss Physcomitrium patens
Authors: Chen Zexi , Li Ping , He Jianfang , Wang Wenbo , Pu Xiaojun , Chen Silin , Gao Bei , Wang Xuewen , Zhu Rui-Liang , Yuan Wenya , Liu Li
Published: August 2024

The moss Physcomitrium patens is a model system for the evolutionary study of land plants, and as such, it may contain as yet unannotated genes with functions related to the adaptation to water deficiency that was required during the water-to-land transition. In this study, we identified a novel gene, Bryophyte Co-retained Gene 1 (BCG1), in P. patens that is responsive to dehydration and rehydration. Under de- and rehydration treatments, BCG1 was significantly co-expressed with DHNA, which encodes a dehydrin (DHN). Examination of previous microarray data revealed that BCG1 is highly expressed in spores, archegonia (female reproductive organ), and mature sporophytes. In addition, the bcg1 mutant showed reduced dehydration tolerance, and this was accompanied by a relatively low level of chlorophyll content during recovery. Comprehensive transcriptomics uncovered a detailed set of regulatory processes that were affected by the disruption to BCG1. Experimental evidence showed that BCG1 might function in antioxidant activity, the abscisic acid pathway, and in intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis to resist desiccation. Overall, our results provide insights into the role of a bryophyte co-retained gene in desiccation tolerance.
Temporal duration-based probabilistic argumentation frameworks
Authors: Bistarelli Stefano , David Victor , Santini Francesco , Taticchi Carlo
Published: August 2024

The study of Dung-style Argumentation Frameworks in recent years has focused on incorporating time. For example, availability intervals have been added to arguments and relations, resulting in different outputs of Dung semantics over time. This paper examines the probability distribution of arguments over time intervals. Using this temporal probabilistic model, the study explores how these frameworks can be transformed into a probabilistic argumentation according to the constellation approach and how they can be interpreted within the epistemic approach. The epistemic approach relies on the notion of defeat to select significant conflicts based on probability distributions. The study also introduces the temporal acceptability of arguments based on the concept of defence, allowing for more precise results over time. Finally, the models (constellation and epistemic) are extended to account for events that have a duration, i.e. that can occur for several consecutive instants of time.
Revisiting Compositional Accuracy of Carbides Using a Decreased Detector Efficiency in a LEAP 6000 XR Atom Probe Instrument
Authors: Jakob Severin , Thuvander Mattias
Published: August 2024

The accuracy of carbon composition measurement of carbide precipitates in steel or other alloys is limited by the evaporation characteristics of carbon and the performance of current detector systems. Carbon evaporates in a higher fraction as clustered ions leading to detector pile-up during so-called multiple hits. To achieve higher accuracy, a grid was positioned behind the local electrode, reducing the detection efficiency from 52 to 7% and thereby reducing the fraction of multi-hit events. This work confirms the preferential loss of carbon due to detector pile-up. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the newer generation of commercial atom probe instruments displays somewhat higher discrepancy of carbon composition than previous generations. The reason for this might be different laser–matter interaction leading to less metal ions in multi-hit events.
Enhancing Treatment Benefits with Exercise - TG
Authors: Smits Jasper A. J. , Otto Michael W.
Published: August 2024

Enhancing Treatment Benefits with Exercise: Therapist Guide is an indispensable resource, expanding the therapeutic range to include exercise-based interventions. The guide, which serves as a complement to the accompanying client workbook, argues that exercise has powerful effects on mental health. The introductory chapters provide general guidance on strategies for initiating and maintaining exercise programs. Other chapters cover the role of exercise in improving mood and anxiety disorders, enhancing cognition, and promoting general resilience. The therapist guide also covers the relapse-prevention phase of treatment and provides motivational strategies to help clients start, continue, and succeed with exercise programs. It also discusses the benefits of exercise for specific conditions.
The Exercise Prescription
Authors: Smits Jasper A. J. , Otto Michael W.
Published: August 2024

This chapter examines the exercise prescription. It explains how the therapist can work together with the client to develop and fine-tune an exercise program that can help manage depressed mood or anxiety while also improving cognition, habit control, or resilience. Exercise experiences vary tremendously across and within clients, and these experiences can affect clients’ expectations for their new exercise programs. The chapter then details the parameters of the exercise prescription, such as intensity, duration, and frequency.
Exercise to Enhance Cognition
Authors: Smits Jasper A. J. , Otto Michael W.
Published: August 2024

This chapter focuses on exercise programs to enhance cognition. Framing information aims to help with discussions with the client about the mechanism and strength of trial data supporting exercise as a strategy for cognitive enhancement. The current state of research offers a strong rationale for providing exercise prescriptions to clients with current cognitive difficulties or longer-term prevention programs for older adults at risk for cognitive decline. For the longer-term exercise programs used in intervention and prevention efforts, motivational strategies are important to maintain exercise adherence. The chapter also covers the use of exercise to enhance cognitive rehabilitation for adults with schizophrenia.
Exercise to Aid Smoking Cessation
Authors: Smits Jasper A. J. , Otto Michael W.
Published: August 2024

This chapter discusses how exercise can assist clients who are trying to stop smoking. The use of exercise to aid with smoking cessation serves as an apt example of how exercise can help clients who are attempting to change other habits. Exercise prescription on intermediary targets for smoking cessation is relevant to clients and their smoking cessation goals. The chapter elaborates on the interplay between anxiety, depression, withdrawal, craving, and anxiety sensitivity in line with a framework for a personalized exercise prescription. Targeting the exercise program to specific symptom domains may require additional client assessments, which may then help with case formulation.
Enhancing Treatment Benefits with Exercise - WB
Authors: Smits Jasper A. J. , Otto Michael W.
Published: August 2024

Enhancing Treatment Benefits with Exercise: Workbook provides an overview of motivational strategies for exercise that aim to improve an individual’s lifestyle and mental health. The strategies offer a fresh way to approach exercise as well. Ample evidence proves that exercise can be used to treat depression, anxiety, and panic while also improving cognition and reducing stress. Moreover, exercise-based treatment can also improve mood and smoking cessation and achieve a general sense of psychological resilience. The workbook can be used as a stand-alone treatment as an addition to another ongoing treatment or as a strategy to extend gains or prevent relapse from a previous treatment.
Maintaining Your Exercise Program
Authors: Otto Michael W. , Smits Jasper A. J.
Published: August 2024

This chapter considers how to maintain an exercise program. The key to maintaining a successful exercise program over time is to plan for variation and to consider things that can make the exercise easier. Moreover, the exercise program must be fine-tuned to the individual’s needs. Thus, planning must take into account the intensity, duration, and frequency of exercise to better achieve mood and fitness goals. The chapter then suggests how to manage low-motivation moments and subsequently bounce back from missed exercise sessions. A worksheet is provided that covers how to modify the exercise program in line with the person’s current progress and interests.
Exercise for Cognition
Authors: Otto Michael W. , Smits Jasper A. J.
Published: August 2024

This chapter covers how exercise can improve memory, attention, and general cognition. It starts with an overview of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) before considering how it could be affected by exercise. Exercising before a therapy session may make it easier to face fears and retain learning of safety from the session. Maintaining a longer-term program of exercise will require a focus on finding joy in workouts and being open to changing up the exercise enough to keep it interesting. The chapter suggests that the client reviews the worksheet on selecting members for the support team in an effort to achieve mood and cognitive benefits.
CHIMPS2: 13CO J = 3→2 emission in the central molecular zone
Authors: King S M , Moore T J T , Henshaw J D , Longmore S N , Eden D J , Rigby A J , Rosolowsky E , Tahani K , Su Y , Yiping A , Tang X , Ragan S , Liu T , Kuan Y -J , Rani R
Published: August 2024

We present the initial data for the $(J = 3 \rightarrow 2)$ transition of $^{13}\text{CO}$ obtained from the central molecular zone (CMZ) of the Milky Way as part of the CO Heterodyne Inner Milky Way Plane Survey 2 (CHIMPS2). Covering $359^{\circ } \le l \le 1^{\circ }$ and $|b| \le 0.5^{\circ }$ with an angular resolution of 19 arcsec, velocity resolution of 1 km s$^{-1}$, and rms $\Delta {T_{\rm A}^{*}} = 0.59\, \mathrm{K}$ at these resolutions, our observations unveil the complex structure of the CMZ molecular gas in improved detail. Complemented by the $\rm {^{12}CO}$ CHIMPS2 data, we estimate a median optical depth of $\tau _{13} = 0.087$. The preliminary analysis yields a median $^{13}\text{CO}$ column-density range equal to $N(^{13}{\rm CO}) = 2{\!-\!}5 \times 10^{18}\, \mathrm{cm}^{-2}$, median H$_{2}$ column density equal to $N(\mathrm{H_{2}}) = 4 \times 10^{22}\, \mathrm{cm}^{-2}$ to $1 \times 10^{23}\, \mathrm{cm}^{-2}$. We derive $N({\rm H_{2}})$-based total mass estimates of $M({\rm H}_{2}) = 2{\!-\!}6 \times 10^{7}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$, in agreement with previous studies. We analyse the relationship between the integrated intensity of $^{13}\text{CO}$ and the surface density of compact sources identified by Herschel Hi-GAL, and find that younger Hi-GAL sources detected at 500 $\rm{\mu m}$ but not at 70 $\rm{\mu m}$ follow the dense gas of the CMZ more closely than those that are bright at 70 $\rm{\mu m}$. The latter, actively star-forming sources appear to be more associated with material in the foreground spiral arms.