bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Fabrication of BiVO4/WO3/GaN Heterojunction and its Enhanced Water Splitting Performance
Authors: Xi Xin , Suo Zhaojun , Li Tuo , Yu Zhiguo , Liu Kai , Zou Xiaofeng , Wang Changhong
Published: November 2024

GaN has garnered significant attention for water splitting due to its excellent light absorption, carrier transport properties, and chemical inertness. However, its bandgap of 3.4 eV restricts absorption to the ultraviolet range. To address this limitation, narrow-bandgap semiconductors BiVO4 and WO3 were deposited on the GaN surface using the sol-gel method. Photoelectrochemical water-splitting tests revealed that the saturated photocurrent densities of GaN/BiVO4 and GaN/BiVO4/WO3 under full-spectrum illumination were 1.42 and 1.86 times greater than that of GaN alone, respectively. This improvement is attributed to the smaller bandgaps of BiVO4 and WO3, which significantly extend the spectral absorption range of GaN. Additionally, BiVO4 and WO3 form heterojunctions through energy alignment, and the built-in electric field at the heterojunctions accelerates the separation of photo-generated carriers, further enhancing energy conversion efficiency. The study also found that the BiVO4 and WO3 films exhibit a 2D flake morphology, providing larger surface areas that enhance light absorption and carrier transport, thereby improving water-splitting efficiency. Our research paves a new path for the application of GaN in water splitting.
Priority directions for increasing production volumes in the regional livestock industry
Authors: Yu Gusev A
Published: November 2024

The efficiency of agricultural production is determined by one of key parameters, namely, the production volume, which directly affects the earning power and profitability of the agricultural sector. The current level of development of the agricultural sector, both in the country as a whole and in most regions, indicates two trends in the development of the livestock industry and production, namely, processes of an intensive and extensive nature, thanks to which production volumes are also growing. At the same time, their influence on the scale of production activity is multidirectional. With the further development of technical and technological modernization, the introduction of modern technologies, the digital transformation of the livestock industry, processes related to the intensification of agricultural production should become priority methods for stimulating the growth of volumes, which will significantly and rapidly increase production volumes, ensure a significant increase in labor productivity, increase the level of its intellectualization.
Imagining a net-zero Teesside: actors, networks, and expectations in industrial decarbonisation megaprojects
Authors: Herman Kyle S , Iskandarova Marfuga , Sovacool Benjamin K
Published: November 2024

Decarbonising industrial clusters is critical to achieving the UK’s net-zero industrial strategy. This study focuses on Teesside, an industrial cluster in Northeast England, analysing its transition through the framework of the Sociology of Expectations (SoE). The research investigates the role of public and private stakeholders in driving decarbonisation efforts, concentrating on a limited set of technologies and large-scale megaprojects, especially carbon capture, hydrogen production, CO2 and hydrogen transport. The study highlights the challenges of deploying these first-of-a-kind technologies, which are not yet commercially viable in the UK. Our analysis identifies both opportunities and significant risks in Teesside’s approach, particularly the potential over-reliance on a narrow range of technologies. The findings raise concerns about the assumed reductions in costs and carbon emissions, questioning the feasibility of scaling these technologies for long-term industrial sustainability. The main implication is that, should the technologies currently favoured by incumbent industry fail to perform, the expectations could play a double and contradictory role in net-zero transitions—by both motivating actors to legitimise decarbonisation technologies, yet blinding others to the significant challenges that lie ahead.
Research on temperature rise prediction model for circuit breaker based on numerical Laplace transform
Authors: Zhang Yihe , Zhang Xu , Qu Xiaomin , Wang Songtao , Liu Xiaozhi , Zhang Jiang
Published: November 2024

The temperature rise in circuit breakers’ thermal paths is a critical indicator influencing their tripping characteristics, directly affecting response speed, reliability, and safety. Existing models for predicting circuit breaker temperature rise are often structurally limited, lack generality, and exhibit low predictive accuracy. Addressing this issue, this paper investigates an efficient, precise, and widely applicable theoretical model for predicting circuit breaker temperature rise. This model focuses on the thermal conduction mechanisms within small-scale circuit breakers, establishing a fundamental numerical heat transfer model based on Newton’s cooling formula and Fourier’s heat conduction law. By applying numerical Laplace transformation, the model is simplified into the complex frequency domain, and employing residue theorem for solving, it is transformed back into the time domain using Laplace inverse transformation to derive the predictive model. Experimental validation using a 32 A rated current circuit breaker demonstrates the model’s high predictive accuracy, suitability across various circuit breaker structures, with an average deviation below the permissible deviation in industry standards. This research holds significant implications for enhancing the thermal tripping characteristics of circuit breakers.
Ethical implications of artificial intelligence in skin cancer diagnostics: use-case analyses
Authors: Shah Syed F H , Arecco Daniel , Draper Heather , Tiribelli Simona , Harriss Eli , Matin Rubeta N
Published: November 2024

Background

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. Early diagnosis is crucial to improving patient survival and morbidity. Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted smartphone applications (apps) for skin cancer potentially offer accessible, early risk assessment of suspicious skin lesions. However, the integration of novel technologies into dermatology pathways raises ethical concerns. Although ethical principles for AI governance are well known, how these principles should be applied to real-life AI apps readily available for public use is less well understood.

Objectives

To conduct an ethical use-case analysis of commercially available skin cancer apps, to better understand the ethical issues arising from their development and use in a real-world context.

Methods

Established methods for the ethical analysis of clinical AI applications were applied to two popular skin cancer apps in the UK: SkinVision and Scanoma. Systematic searches of published literature, regulatory documents and websites were conducted to review the evidence regarding app development, effectiveness and use. Screening for inclusion was undertaken by two researchers independently. Ethical concerns were identified with reference to previously described ethical concerns and principles for AI-assisted healthcare.

Results

By conceptualizing ethical principles within the use-context of skin cancer apps, we identified specific ethical issues arising throughout the AI lifecycle of both apps. One company provided extensive detail regarding algorithm development and decision-making; this information was insufficiently reported for the other app. Other concerns identified were related to number, quality and consistency of studies assessing algorithm efficacy. Limited efforts to address potential skin tone biases and the exclusion of individuals with darker skin tones as target users by one app risks perpetuating existing inequalities. Inadequate regulatory oversight was identified.

Conclusions

Findings from our ethical use-case analysis of two patient-facing AI-assisted skin cancer apps suggest inadequate incorporation of bioethical norms such as justice, responsibility and transparency into the development and deployment of both apps. Improved regulation should increase accountability. Ensuring ethics by design through integration between technology developers, dermatologists, ethicists and the public is urgently needed to prevent the potential benefits of AI-assisted skin cancer apps being overshadowed by potential ethical harms.
AAV1.tMCK.NT-3 gene therapy improves phenotype in Sh3tc2−/− mouse model of Charcot–Marie–Tooth Type 4C
Authors: Ozes Burcak , Tong Lingying , Moss Kyle , Myers Morgan , Morrison Lilye , Attia Zayed , Sahenk Zarife
Published: November 2024

Charcot–Marie–Tooth Type 4C (CMT4C) is associated with mutations in the SH3 domain and tetratricopeptide repeats 2 (SH3TC2) gene, primarily expressed in Schwann cells (SCs). Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) is an important autocrine factor for SC survival and differentiation, and it stimulates neurite outgrowth and myelination. In this study, scAAV1.tMCK.NT-3 was delivered intramuscularly to 4-week-old Sh3tc2−/− mice, a model for CMT4C, and treatment efficacy was assessed at 6-month post-gene delivery. Efficient transgene production was verified with the detection of NT-3 in serum from the treated cohort. NT-3 gene therapy improved functional and electrophysiological outcomes including rotarod, grip strength and nerve conduction velocity. Qualitative and quantitative histopathological studies showed that hypomyelination of peripheral nerves and denervated status of neuromuscular junctions at lumbrical muscles were also improved in the NT-3-treated mice. Morphometric analysis in mid-sciatic and tibial nerves showed treatment-induced distally prominent regenerative activity in the nerve and an increase in the estimated SC density. This indicates that SC proliferation and differentiation, including the promyelination stage, are normal in the Sh3tc2−/− mice, consistent with the previous findings that Sh3tc2 is not involved in the early stages of myelination. Moreover, in size distribution histograms, the number of myelinated axons within the 3- to 6-µm diameter range increased, suggesting that treatment resulted in continuous radial growth of regenerating axons over time. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the efficacy of AAV1.NT-3 gene therapy in the Sh3tc2−/− mouse model of CMT4C, the most common recessively inherited demyelinating CMT subtype.
Prognostic implications and reversibility of pulmonary vascular resistance derived by echocardiography in patients undergoing tricuspid annuloplasty
Authors: Zhang Jingnan , Flachskampf Frank A , Zhu Ching-Yan , Chen Yan , Wu Meizhen , Ren Qingwen , Huang Jiayi , Guo Ran , Gu Wenli , Hung Yik-Ming , Böyük Ferit , Fang Fang , Zhang Gejun , Pan Xiangbin , Chan Yap-Hang , Chan Tai-Leung , Yiu Kai-Hang
Published: November 2024

Aims

Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) intimately correlates with right ventricular afterload and the development of secondary tricuspid regurgitation (sTR). We sought to investigate the prognostic roles of PVR derived by echocardiography in patients with sTR undergoing tricuspid annuloplasty (TA).

Methods and results

Data from 322 TA patients [median age (inter-quartile range): 65.0 (59.0–70.0) years; 35.7% males] were obtained from a prospective registry to determine the impact of PVR on the composite outcome [including all-cause mortality and heart failure (HF) hospitalization]. PVR was calculated by dividing the peak TR velocity by time–velocity integral of the right ventricular outflow tract followed by adding 0.16. During a median follow-up of 5.2 years, 108 adverse events occurred including 48 deaths and 60 HF readmissions. Baseline PVR ≥ 2 WU was independently associated with a higher risk of composite outcome (HR: 1.674, 95% CI: 1.028–2.726, P = 0.038). Baseline PVR outperforms both pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and the ratio of tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion to PASP in terms of outcome prediction, with pronounced improvement of global model fit, reclassification, and discrimination. In 150 patients who received short-term echocardiograms after surgery, the presence of post-operative PVR ≥ 2 WU (n = 20, 13.3%) was independently associated with the composite outcome (HR: 2.621, 95% CI: 1.292–5.319, P = 0.008).

Conclusion

PVR derived by echocardiography is an independent determinant of outcomes in patients undergoing TA for sTR. The inclusion of non-invasive PVR may provide valuable information to improve patient selection and post-operative management in this population.
Transcarotid-transcatheter aortic valve implantation in a patient with low cardiac function and haemodialysis accompanied by intracranial carotid stenosis: a case report
Authors: Hayashi Nagi , Yunoki Junji , Baba Kouhei , Morokuma Hiroyuki , Kamohara Keiji
Published: November 2024

Background

In transcatheter aortic valve implantation, the transfemoral approach is commonly used, but challenging access and procedural difficulties are sometimes encountered. Among alternatives, the transcarotid approach is increasingly used. We present a case of transcatheter aortic valve implantation in which a left common carotid approach achieved favourable outcomes in a patient with low cardiac function and dialysis.

Case summary

The patient was a 67-year-old woman with a history of coronary artery bypass surgery and dialysis. Heart failure secondary to aortic stenosis and hypotension during dialysis required surgery. Echocardiography indicated severe aortic stenosis with low-flow low-gradient. Access was problematic, with 4.0 mm diameter calcified external iliac arteries. Severe calcific stenosis was observed in the left subclavian artery, and the presence of right internal thoracic artery bypass rendered the bilateral subclavian artery approach unsuitable. Given the history of open-heart surgery and reduced left ventricular function, the carotid approach was chosen; however, both internal carotid arteries showed moderate stenosis. Carotid compression magnetic resonance angiography confirmed intracranial communication, so we chose access through the more severely stenosed left common carotid artery. Under preoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and general anaesthesia, transcatheter aortic valve implantation was performed with a Sapien3 Ultra RESILIA 23 mm valve. Postoperatively, there was no symptomatic cerebral infarction, and the dialysis-related hypotension resolved.

Discussion

Even with intracranial carotid stenosis, flow evaluations, such as Matas test magnetic resonance imaging assessments, can reduce the cerebral infarction risk during transcarotid-transcatheter aortic valve implantation, providing a potentially safe and minimally invasive alternative access.
myh9b is a critical non-muscle myosin II encoding gene that interacts with myh9a and myh10 during zebrafish development in both compensatory and redundant pathways
Authors: Rolfs Laura A , Falat Elizabeth J , Gutzman Jennifer H
Published: November 2024

Non-muscle myosin (NMII) motor proteins have diverse developmental functions due to their roles in cell shape changes, cell migration, and cell adhesion. Zebrafish are an ideal vertebrate model system to study the NMII encoding myh genes and proteins due to high sequence homology, established gene editing tools, and rapid ex utero development. In humans, mutations in the NMII encoding MYH genes can lead to abnormal developmental processes and disease. This study utilized zebrafish myh9a, myh9b, and myh10 null mutants to examine potential genetic interactions and roles for each gene in development. It was determined that the myh9b gene is the most critical NMII encoding gene, as myh9b mutants develop pericardial edema and have a partially penetrant lethal phenotype, which was not observed in the other myh mutants. This study also established that genetic interactions occur between the zebrafish myh9a, myh9b, and myh10 genes where myh9b is required for the expression of both myh9a and myh10, and myh10 is required for the expression of myh9b. Additionally, protein analyses suggested that enhanced NMII protein stability in some mutant backgrounds may play a role in compensation. Finally, double mutant studies revealed different and more severe phenotypes at earlier time points than single mutants, suggesting roles for tissue specific genetic redundancy, and in some genotypes, haploinsufficiency. These mutants are the first in vivo models allowing for the study of complete loss of the NMIIA and NMIIB proteins, establishing them as valuable tools to elucidate the role of NMII encoding myh genes in development and disease.
Role of the Upper Limb in Limiting Head Impact During Laboratory-Induced Falls in at Fall-Risk Older Adults
Authors: Chen Lingjun , Zanotto Tobia , Fang James , Scharf Ethan , Garcia Nathanael , Luzania Andrew , Mukherjee Rishav , Alexander Neil B , Sosnoff Jacob J
Published: November 2024

Background

Fall-related head impact is the leading cause of traumatic brain injury in older adults. There is limited understanding of factors related to fall-related head impact. This investigation examined characteristics of upper limb movements during standing-height falls and examined their association with fall-related head impact in older adults at risk for falls.

Methods

Older adults (n = 29) at risk for fall-related injuries underwent experimentally induced falls in multiple directions (backwards and sideways). To characterize the upper limb movements and their association with head impact, a standardized analysis tool was used to analyze a total of 164 video-recorded falls. The association between upper limb movements (and their characteristics) and head impact was analyzed through logistic regression.

Results

Nearly 80% of falls involved upper limb movements. Absence of upper limb movements significantly increased head impact odds by approximately 4-fold. The odds of head impact were reduced in falls with energy absorption at the forearm (0.013-fold) and upper arm (0.018-fold), compared to falls without upper limb energy absorption. Backwards falls showed significantly higher odds of head impact (more than 4-fold).

Conclusions

Upper limb movements are common during fall descent and are associated with lower odds of experiencing head impact. Energy absorption with the upper limb seems to be an important protective mechanism. Future work should explore if these movements can be augmented with targeted training.
Anatomical Approach for the Evaluation of the Nipple–Areolar Complex
Authors: Abdelhafez Abeer , Cotes Claudia
Published: November 2024

The nipple–areolar complex (NAC) is an anatomically unique region from which several normal variants and pathologies arise. Understanding its anatomy is crucial for accurate clinical and imaging assessments, aiding with differential diagnosis, and ensuring radiologic–pathologic concordance. Mammography and US are commonly used for NAC evaluation; however, these are susceptible to technical limitations such as tissue superimposition and artifacts, compromising visualization of abnormalities in this area. Although MRI offers higher sensitivity, it is not the initial evaluation modality. A comprehensive clinical inspection is necessary because it may reveal abnormalities not apparent on imaging. This article offers an anatomical approach to the NAC evaluation, simplifying differential diagnoses by reviewing imaging techniques and clinical features of common NAC abnormalities.
A Phenomenology of the Law of International Organizations
Authors: d’Aspremont Jean
Published: November 2024

This article questions some key patterns of thought that inform the study of the law of international organizations. It particularly challenges the idea that international organizations constitute things-in-the-world that have a certain actuality, materiality, and concreteness. It argues that international organizations are all constituted and do not have any actuality, materiality, and concreteness other than what is experienced by international lawyers when they engage with them. In other words, this article makes the claim that international organizations should not be construed as things-in-the-world but as the product of a series of experiences. Doing away with the idea of international organizations as things-in-the-world and claiming that international organizations are constituted by international lawyers’ specific experiences thereof correspond to what is called here a phenomenological approach to the law of international organizations.
Constitutionalizing Global Health
Authors: Capaldo Giuliana Ziccardi
Published: November 2024

This article explores the transition to a global health constitutional law under the aegis of the UN Security Council (SC). The article argues that SC Resolution 2565 develops a paradigm shift of the health system based on four basic tenets (which the author calls the “four tenets paradigm of global health”). This resolution is a “proposal” that lays the legal foundation for global health constitutionalization. It has to be “accepted” by the global community as a framework for a new course. In global law, constituent power rests with the global community. From this perspective, the SC’s capacity as global initiator, legislator, and enforcement authority in the development of new concepts, lawmaking procedures, and rules of health law (binding on all global players) derives from the global community (the Council acts as its agent). The global community already accepted SC powers to promote constitutional processes, especially in matters concerning global terrorism.
Introduction to the Collection of Papers on Reparations
Authors: Spijkers Otto
Published: November 2024

This Collection of Papers is about the topic of reparations. When a state commits an internationally wrongful act, it is automatically under an obligation to wipe out all the consequences of its wrongful act. This is how “reparations” is approached, at least since the famous judgment of the Permanent Court of International Justice relating to the Factory at Chorzów of 1928. The contributions in this Collection of Papers all revisit this Chorzów principle, and expose various changes in the way we currently understand reparations. This evolution is linked to the tension between an “externalist” and “internalist” approach to wrongdoing. We also look at (potential) practical implications of this evolution for reparation claims regarding European colonialism, the Sámi Indigenous people in Norway, and Operation Condor. A critical assessment of the recent judgment on reparations of the International Court of Justice in the case between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda shows how this Court interprets and applies the Chorzów principle in the year 2022.
Reparations for European Colonialism
Authors: Hackmack Judith , Imani Sarah
Published: November 2024

Reparations for colonialism have become a topic for international work—scholarly, activist, and political alike—for racial justice, international human rights, and transitional justice. The topic has been taken up in reports of UN Special Rapporteurs, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, as well as the newly founded Permanent Forum on People of African Descent at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), among others. The conceptual starting point of these reports and statements no longer seems to be if, but how to adequately apply international human rights and transitional justice standards to European colonialism. This prompts several questions as to the location of these reparation claims within the existing international legal framework on reparations, but also regarding the adequacy of this framework for these types of claims given, in particular, their collective, transgenerational and structural aspects.
How (not) to Compensate for State Responsibility in Armed Conflict
Authors: Volterra Robert G. , Vos Florentine
Published: November 2024

This article examines the judgment of the International Court of Justice in the Armed Activities on the Territory of the Congo (Democratic Republic of the Congo v. Uganda) case. It discusses the contribution this judgment has made to the law of international reparations, in particular, for war damage. It compares the findings of the Court and its determinations as to reparations due for the engagement of state responsibility in this case with its previous practice as well as with that of other international courts and tribunals. It concludes that the amount of reparations that the Court awarded was significantly lower than damages awarded by other international courts and tribunals that have applied the same standards of public international law to less egregious violations.
International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS)
Authors: Tanaka Yoshifumi
Published: November 2024

This chapter examines the judicial practice of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) between January 2022 and June 2023. Specifically, it reviews the Request for an Advisory Opinion submitted by the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law, discontinuance of the proceedings of the M/T “Heroic Idun” case (Marshall Islands v. Equatorial Guinea), Dispute Concerning Delimitation of the Maritime Boundary between Mauritius and Maldives in the Indian Ocean (Mauritius/Maldives), and the M/T “Heroic Idun” (No. 2) case (Marshall Islands v. Equatorial Guinea), respectively. This chapter also refers to the activity of the Tribunal, including the election of the members of ITLOS.
IOs’ Administrative Tribunals (IATs)
Authors: Seatzu Francesco , Vargiu Paolo
Published: November 2024

This review conducts a critical analysis of landmark cases adjudicated by international administrative tribunals from 2022 to early 2023. Cases such as K. v. EPO (ILOAT) and various pivotal UNAT judgments illustrate the treatment of recurring questions, such as the sustainability of employee benefits and the specificity of duty reassignments within the UN system. Particular attention is given to the use of demotion as a disciplinary measure, its implications for organizational discipline, and the potential for misuse within the framework of international employment. The review addresses the reaffirmed discretionary power of administrative bodies in shaping duties and working conditions, compared with the imperative adherence to fundamental principles of fairness, reasonableness, and legality. The review also highlights emerging judgments that address the definitions within employment regulations and the emerging focus on the physical and psychological safety of employees, signaling a shift toward greater protection of employee welfare. Finally, the review discusses the UNAT’s efforts in clarifying appellate procedures, reinforcing the established limitation of appeals to review matters previously addressed in lower tribunals, and defining the boundaries of permissible appeals.
African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACtHPR)
Authors: Nxumalo Sfiso Benard , O’Regan Catherine
Published: November 2024

The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (African Court) stands as a pivotal institution in the realm of human rights protection across Africa. Its first judges were appointed in 2006. As the continent’s human rights court, the African Court is tasked with interpreting and applying the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, a widely ratified regional human rights treaty that seeks to promote and protect human and peoples’ rights in Africa. Between 1 January 2022 and 31 July 2023, the Court received twelve new applications and delivered seventy-two decisions. It further handed down twenty-nine judgments. This introductory note provides an overview of the protocol establishing the African Charter, exploring the challenges of access to justice for individuals and non-governmental organisations under the African Court’s protocol. Thereafter, four cases handed down during 2022 and 2023 are explored in-depth. These cases concern the right to self-determination, Indigenous peoples’ land rights, the mandatory death penalty, and the independence of electoral institutions. A brief overview of two cases discussing fair trial rights is also provided.
Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU)
Authors: Lenaerts Koen
Published: November 2024

This introductory note looks back at the main highlights of events occurring at the Court of Justice of the European Union. The year 2022 was the seventieth anniversary of the Court of Justice of the European Union. It marked a return to the normal functioning of the Court, after two years in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. The Court continued to set the pace, rendering judgments notably in the fields of the rule of law, the environment, personal data protection, social protection, and, inevitably, aid granted in the context of the health crisis. This introductory note provides an overview of the most important judgments in each of these fields.
International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT)
Authors: Nieto-Navia Rafael
Published: November 2024

The International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) assumed responsibility for four cases from the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Among these, the Stanišić and Simatović case, which was under appeal, reached a conclusion during the review period. With the completion of these proceedings, the Mechanism has effectively concluded its work on the remaining ICTY cases. Moving forward, the IRMCT’s focus will shift to addressing the cases inherited from the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), ensuring continued accountability for crimes committed during the Rwandan genocide. This marks a crucial transition in the Mechanism’s ongoing judicial responsibilities.
Pursuing Justice Through Law
Authors: Falk Richard
Published: November 2024

This chapter discusses law and geopolitics in the inflamed atmosphere of the ongoing high intensity violence taking place in Gaza, alleged to be a response to the Hamas attack on a series of Israeli border communities on October 7, 2023. Edward Said’s life and work as a Palestinian public intellectual living in America seems highly relevant to gain insight into the author’s underlying objective of achieving a better alignment of law and justice. Justice is here conceived as a first approximation by reference to contemporary instruments of international human rights law, international humanitarian law, international criminal law, as well as the Nuremberg Principle and certain provisions of the UN Charter.
Effective Interactions for the SM Fermion Mass Hierarchy and their Possible UV Realization
Authors: Hernández A E Cárcamo , Restrepo Diego , Schmidt Ivan , Zapata Óscar
Published: November 2024

We build an extended two Higgs doublet model theory with spontaneously broken $U(1) _{X}$ global symmetry, where the tree-level universal seesaw mechanism generates the mass hierarchy of the Standard Model charged fermions and the Zee–Babu mechanism produces tiny active neutrino masses. The third family of SM charged fermions gets tree-level masses from Yukawa interactions involving the Higgs doublets $H_1$ (for the top quark) and $H_2$ (for the bottom quark and tau lepton). The model under consideration is consistent with SM fermion masses and mixings, with the muon and electron $g-2$ anomalies, and successfully accommodates the constraints arising from charged-lepton-flavor violation and meson oscillations. The proposed model predicts rates for charged-lepton-flavor-violating decays within the reach of forthcoming experiments.
Synergistic effect of curcumin and Piperine loaded Niosomal nanoparticles on acute pulmonary toxicity induced by Paraquat in mice
Authors: Khederzadeh Aram , Ebrahimnejad Pedram , Seyedabadi Mohammad , Babaei Amirhossein , Amiri Fereshteh Talebpour , Aslani Nasim , Mojarad-Jabali Solmaz , Mohammadi Hamidreza
Published: November 2024

Objective

Paraquat (PQ), a widely used non-selective herbicide, induces severe lung toxicity by promoting cell death and tissue necrosis through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals. This study aimed to develop and evaluate novel niosomal nanoparticles (NPs) encapsulating curcumin and piperine to mitigate PQ-induced acute pulmonary toxicity in Balb/c mice.

Methods

The NPs were prepared using non-ionic surfactants and cholesterol via the thin film hydration method.

Results

Characterization revealed high encapsulation efficiency (>85%), proper particle sizes (264–286 nm), narrow polydispersity index (PDI) (0.19 ± 0.04 to 0.23 ± 0.02), and good stability over 90 days. Thermal analysis confirmed successful encapsulation of curcumin and piperine within the niosomal NPs. In vivo studies showed that PQ exposure significantly elevated ROS, lipid peroxidation (LPO), and protein carbonylation (PC) levels, while reducing glutathione (GSH) levels and impairing mitochondrial function (P < 0.001). However, co-treatment with curcumin- and piperine-loaded niosomal NPs effectively reversed these effects (P < 0.001), improving mitochondrial function.

Conclusion

The combined formulation of curcumin and piperine in niosomal NPs offers a promising therapeutic strategy for treating PQ-induced pulmonary toxicity, likely due to enhanced bioavailability and potent antioxidant activity.
Uncovering the fungus responsible for stem and root rot of false indigo: pathogen identification, new disease description, and genome analyses
Authors: Harrigian Fiona , LeBlanc Nicholas , Eriksen Renee L. , Bush Elizabeth A. , Rodriguez Salamanca Lina , Salgado-Salazar Catalina
Published: November 2024

Calonectria spp. can cause destructive diseases on forestry crops, legumes like soybean and peanut, and ornamentals. Species of Calonectria affecting ornamental plants are not well characterized or understood, though they have been widely documented as an issue in the ornamental industry. This research focused on the molecular identification, pathogenicity validation, and genome analysis of a Calonectria sp. isolate recovered from ornamental blue false indigo (Baptisia australis) plants showing disease symptoms of crown and root rot in a commercial nursery in Virginia. The fungus on B. australis was identified as C. fujianensis (Nectriaceae, Hypocreales), a member of the C. colhuonii species complex using multilocus sequencing. Pathogenicity tests were fulfilled by inoculating C. fujianensis conidia on B. australis seedlings, confirming a causal relationship between this pathogen and the disease symptoms observed. A 62.7 Mb high-quality hybrid genome assembly generated using Illumina and Nanopore data was obtained, contained in 16 contigs, four of which were complete chromosomes. A total of 750 effectors were found in the genome, similar to cutinase and pectinase virulence factors described from other Calonectria species’ genomes. Characterization of this novel disease of B. australis advances our understanding of Calonectria as an important but poorly studied group of plant pathogens.
Intrapartum Cardiotocography With Simultaneous Maternal Heart Rate Registration Improves Neonatal Outcome
Authors: Tarvonen Mikko , Markkanen Janne , Tuppurainen Ville , Jernman Riina , Stefanovic Vedran , Andersson Sture
Published: November 2024

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024;230:379.e1–379.e12)

Cardiotocography (CTG) is the most common fetal surveillance method during delivery, involving simultaneous monitoring of uterine activity and fetal heart rate (FHR). Newer CTG monitors also track maternal heart rate (MHR), to prevent artifacts from disturbing FHR detection.
Late Reproduction Is Associated With Extended Female Survival But Not With Familial Longevity
Authors: de Kat Annelien C. , Roelofs Femke , Slagboom P. Eline , Broekmans Frank J. M. , Beekman Marian , van den Berg Niels
Published: November 2024

(Abstracted from Reprod Biomed Online 2024;49(3):104073)

Reproductive health in women is a broad term that can encompass health from birth such as being born with a complete set of oocytes, to fertility, pregnancy, deterioration of quantity, and quality of oocytes, to postmenopausal health. Although there are many available data on reproductive health, the relationship between female reproductive health and aging and somatic health and aging is not well characterized.
Gut microbiota and Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Wang Lin , Cui Ying , Han Bingyu , Du Yitong , Salewala Kenish Sirajbhai , Wang Shiya , Zhao Wenlu , Zhang Hongxin , Wang Sichen , Xu Xinran , Ma Jianpeng , Zhu Yan , Tuo Houzhen
Published: November 2024

Emerging evidence suggests that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is associated with the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD), a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. The microbiota–gut–brain axis plays a crucial role in the development and progression of PD, and numerous studies have demonstrated the potential therapeutic benefits of modulations in the intestinal microbiota. This review provides insights into the characterization of the gut microbiota in patients with PD and highlights associations with clinical symptoms and underlying mechanisms. The discussion underscores the increased influence of the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of PD. While the relationship is not fully elucidated, existing research demonstrates a strong correlation between changes in the composition of gut microbiota and disease development, and further investigation is warranted to explain the specific underlying mechanisms.
Comprehensive Guide to Paravalvular Leak: Symptoms, Effects, and Treatments
Authors: Agrawal Siddharth Pravin , Desai Dev , Maheta Darshilkumar , Vaghela Rushi , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: November 2024

Paravalvular leak (PVL) represents a common complication often encountered following valve replacement surgeries, posing significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges within the field of cardiology. The condition, characterized by an abnormal flow of blood around the edges of a prosthetic valve, can lead to a spectrum of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic states to severe heart failure or hemolysis. Its relevance is underscored by its contribution to morbidity and mortality among affected individuals, necessitating a deeper understanding of its etiology, diagnosis, and management. The exploration of advanced diagnostic tools, such as echocardiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance, alongside novel treatment approaches, underscores the dynamic and evolving landscape of PVL management. This is a concentrated guide to understand the various aspects related to PVL, starting with defining the condition to determine its short- and long-term effects on the patient. It will further direct the reader through diagnosis, going through the advancements made in cardiac imaging, especially three-dimensional modeling and echocardiography. The discussion of predisposing factors, technical considerations intrinsic to procedural interventions, and clinical implications is therefore an important part of the discourse and helps set a foundation for an in-depth exploration of contemporary and emerging treatment modalities. From the incorporation of various surgical and percutaneous techniques to the tactical uses of devices, in particular, the AMPLATZer Vascular Plug, associated with the technical development of transcatheter closure, the current review tries to present a panoramic view of PVL management, from diagnosis to closure and insight into mitigation of its impact on outcomes.
A New Twist on the Surgeon's Knot: Quantifying Suture Security
Authors: Modiri Omeed , Ebriani Joseph , Sauvageau Andrew , Davis Jeremy
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The reliability and security of surgical knots play a critical role in wound closure and healing. A surgeon's knot, created by a modification of the square knot in which an extra ‘twist’ is added to the initial throw, is often used to increase friction and provide stability of the tissue as the knot is completed.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to quantify the security of sutures, as influenced by varying numbers of initial twists in a surgeon's knot.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using pig's feet for simulation, the study compared the security of knots tied with 2 types of sutures in 3 different sizes, examining the impact of 1 to 6 initial twists. Univariable linear regression was performed to evaluate the association between increased twists and the force required to loosen each knot.

RESULTS

These data showed that suture security generally improves with an increasing number of twists, up to 5, beyond which benefits diminish in certain suture sizes.

CONCLUSION

Increasing the number of twists in a surgeon's knot significantly enhances suture integrity, with optimal results in knot security observed between 3 to 5 twists, suggesting that a balance is necessary between knot security and ease of application.
Persistent visual field deficit after half-fluence photodynamic therapy for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Micevych Paul S. , Stewart Jay M.
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE:

To report a rare case of a persistent paracentral scotoma after half-fluence photodynamic therapy for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy.

METHODS:

A 65-year-old man with a history of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy presented with a temporal paracentral visual distortion one week after undergoing repeat off-label treatment with half-fluence verteporfin photodynamic therapy for recurrent intraretinal fluid exudation in the right eye. Fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and automatic visual field testing were obtained.

RESULTS:

Humphrey visual field 10-2 demonstrated a focal temporal paracentral area of reduced sensitivity, which remained persistent on repeat testing up to 9 months. OCT macula and fluorescein angiography demonstrated subtle corresponding changes in the nasal macula, while indocyanine green angiography demonstrated no visible alteration in choroidal perfusion.

CONCLUSION:

Symptomatic scotoma in the location of laser treatment may be a rare complication of verteporfin photodynamic therapy even at reduced fluence, in the setting of repeat treatment in the same location, and may be identified and monitored with automated 10-2 visual field testing.
Simple Epithelial Transplantation for Ocular Surface Reconstruction After Severe Ocular Burn Injury
Authors: Bonacci Erika , Fasolo Adriano , Pagnacco Camilla , Bosello Francesca , Marchini Giorgio , Pedrotti Emilio
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

To manage ocular surface complications and recover conjunctival and corneal epithelia after unilateral severe chemical burn.

Methods:

We performed simple conjunctival epithelial transplantation (SCET) to obtain renewal of fornix and bulbar-tarsal conjunctiva epithelium, followed by simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) to recover limbal function and epithelial corneal surface. Slit-lamp examination, fluorescein staining, in vivo confocal microscopy, Kheirkhah grading system for symblepharon severity, Wong–Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale, and best-corrected visual acuity were assessed before surgery, at 1 to 3 months after SCET and SLET, and thereafter at 6 to 12 to 36 months.

Results:

Two patients with unilateral burn injuries underwent surgery. Eye mobility and fornix reconstruction were promptly achieved, and conjunctival epithelium with goblet cells was observed on the bulbar and tarsal conjunctiva 3 months after SCET. After SLET, corneal epithelium and cornea-conjunctiva transition zone were observed at 3 and 6 months, respectively. From before surgery to 6 months after SLET, symblepharon improved from grade IVa2 and IIIb2 to Ic0 and Ib0, the Wong–Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale changed from grade 6 and 4 to 0, and best-corrected visual acuity upgraded from 1.40 and 1.10 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution to 0.5 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution, in patient 1 and 2, respectively. After 3 years, results remained stable.

Conclusions:

SCET effectively healed the bare conjunctival area relieving subjective symptoms and discomfort. Sequential SCET and SLET showed to be feasible in restoring a normal ocular surface with long-lasting results suggesting the aim in patients with severe ocular burn is not merely corneal epithelium renewal but also the regeneration of ocular surface homeostasis.
Removal of Metallic Foreign Bodies with Complete Penetration of the Cornea: Introduction of a New Approach
Authors: Ucar Fikret , Sagdic Muhammed
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to present a new ab interno approach and relevant case series using a polymer-tipped cannula for the removal of metallic foreign bodies that penetrate the full thickness of the cornea and are located in the posterior corneal region.

Methods:

Corneal foreign bodies located on the posterior side of the cornea were gently pushed toward the epithelial side with a polymer-tipped cannula placed using a side-port incision, to be removed without damaging the corneal endothelial layer. The polymer-tipped cannula is specially angled to keep it at a distance from the corneal endothelial layer. In this way, unnecessary endothelial contact and the risk of possible endothelial loss are minimized. The foreign body was held by the epithelium with forceps and carefully removed along the corneal perforation line.

Results:

This technique was performed in 5 eyes of 5 patients. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 38.0 ± 12.1 years (range, 28–59 years). Anterior segment optical coherence tomography showed a metallic foreign body and its shadow that completely penetrated the cornea with the deterioration of the endothelial layer in all cases. In all cases, the corneal foreign body was successfully removed. While preoperative corneal endothelial cell density was 3040.0 ± 512.8 cells/mm2, postoperative corneal endothelial cell density was 2927.2 ± 608.1 cells/mm2 at the third postoperative month, and there was no significant corneal endothelial cell loss in any of the cases (P = 0.31).

Conclusions:

The ab interno approach, performed with a polymer-tipped cannula for the removal of corneal foreign bodies that penetrate deeply, stands out as an important surgical method. This method offers a reliable and effective solution by preventing the foreign body from falling into the anterior chamber and minimizing endothelial damage.